MESTI Minister Opened Two-Day National Workshop on Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation

On Tuesday, June 18th, 2024, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) inaugurated a two-day national workshop in Accra. The workshop aimed to support Ghana in aligning and domesticating key global instruments related to aquatic biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and environmental management.

This significant event was supported by the African Union International Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Government of Sweden.

The workshop brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, and international partners. The sessions focused on the following key areas:

1. Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation: Participants discussed strategies for the sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems, addressing the challenges and opportunities for preserving biodiversity in Ghana’s water bodies.
2. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: The workshop provided a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices on mitigating the impacts of climate change and adapting to its effects. Emphasis was placed on the role of local communities and traditional knowledge in climate resilience.
3. Environmental Management: Discussions centered around enhancing environmental governance and policies to ensure the effective management of natural resources. Participants explored innovative approaches to waste management, pollution control, and sustainable land use.

The Minister highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing environmental challenges and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the workshop. The support from AU-IBAR and the Government of Sweden was acknowledged as crucial in driving these initiatives forward.

The workshop concluded with the formulation of actionable recommendations and a roadmap for future actions. These recommendations will be integrated into national policies and strategies to ensure the sustainable development of Ghana’s natural resources and environment.