The Sefwi Wiawso Municipal Assembly (SWMA) organized a five-day public sensitization program from November 11 to 15, 2024, aimed at educating stakeholders on the causes and effects of climate change. This initiative, held across all six zonal councils within the Municipality, provided a platform for dialogue on climate change and the promotion of environmental safeguards through climate-smart agricultural practices.
The Development Planning Officer, Mr. Isaac Kwabena Antwi, delivered opening remarks at each engagement session. He welcomed participants, including members of the traditional council, media representatives, community members, and other dignitaries. Speaking on behalf of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Louis Owusu-Agyepong, Mr. Antwi thanked attendees for their commitment to addressing climate change issues. He emphasized the importance of agriculture, noting that according to the 2021 Population and Housing Census, approximately 74% of the Municipality's residents depend on farming for their livelihoods. This underscores agriculture’s role as a vital driver of development, food security, and income generation.
The Municipal NADMO Coordinator, Mr. Bediako Agyemang, facilitated a presentation on weather, climate, and the impacts of climate change. He clarified the distinction between weather, which refers to atmospheric conditions at a specific time and place, and climate, which involves long-term patterns over at least 30 years. He explained that climate change results from human activities such as deforestation, land degradation, and industrial pollution, which have led to increased greenhouse gas concentrations. Highlighting its impacts, he described phenomena like droughts, floods, and fire outbreaks, noting how these events often force individuals to become "climate refugees" by abandoning their homes.
The program was lauded as participatory, educational, and impactful. It provided attendees, particularly farmers who are more vulnerable to climate change, with a deeper understanding of its causes, effects, and potential solutions. Participants learned about mitigation and adaptation strategies, including climate-smart agriculture, to safeguard their livelihoods and the environment.
This initiative marks another significant step by the SWMA in fostering community resilience and promoting sustainable development in the face of climate change.