MESTI Minister Inaugurates 21-Member COP28 Committee

August 30, 2023

Accra, Ghana

Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation, has embarked on a new chapter in Ghana’s global climate involvement by establishing a 21-member committee. This committee plays a pivotal role in spearheading Ghana’s comprehensive engagement in the upcoming 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP28. The conference stands as a crucial arena for shaping international climate policies.

Chaired by the esteemed Director of Environment at the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation, Dr. Peter Justice Dery, the committee assumes critical responsibilities. Foremost is securing funding for a dedicated pavilion. Simultaneously, the committee will facilitate the attendance of government officials at COP28, organize a significant pre-conference event within the environmental sector, and curate a series of events within Ghana’s pavilion throughout the conference.

During the committee’s inauguration on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie highlighted Ghana’s pivotal role in global climate discussions. The nation is positioned to make substantial contributions to the policy discourse of COP28, building upon its active participation in UN climate change conferences since 1995—an enduring testament to Ghana’s commitment to addressing climate challenges.

Recognizing elevated expectations, Hon. Afriyie proactively convened this committee to ensure Ghana’s resonant representation and influence at COP28. Referencing the success of the previous year’s COP held in Egypt, he expressed aspirations for an exceptionally impactful participation this year. This moment also signifies Ghana’s final role as the presidency of the CVF and V20 forum, further underscoring the significance of its contribution.

In a spirit of collaboration, Hon. Afriyie revealed that Ghana will share its pavilion with the CVF and V20 forum, amplifying collective efforts for a successful conference. Inclusivity was highlighted as representatives from these bodies were invited to join the committee, solidifying the commitment to a productive event. The committee’s overarching objective is to meticulously execute its terms of reference, encompassing a diverse range of responsibilities. These include planning a dedicated “Ghana Day” during COP, orchestrating compelling pavilion programs, facilitating seamless information exchange among participating sectors, supporting resource mobilization for Ghana’s participation in COP28, compiling a comprehensive post-COP report for submission to the Minister and Cabinet, and undertaking additional tasks as directed by the Minister.

With confidence in the committee’s capabilities, Hon. Afriyie emphasized Ghana’s leadership in climate action. He encouraged the committee to design events that prominently showcase the African narrative within the context of climate change, recognizing its often-overlooked significance.

Dr. Peter Justice Dery, the committee’s Chairman, embraced the challenge wholeheartedly and assured that the committee will operate with excellence. He pledged to provide the essential leadership needed to ensure Ghana’s successful engagement in COP28, emphasizing the conference’s pivotal role in Ghana’s climate action strategies.

The committee’s composition is distinguished and diverse, including key figures such as:

• Dr. Peter Justice Dery, Director of Environment
• Dr. Henry K. Kokofu, Executive Director (EPA)
• Dr. Daniel Tutu Benefoh, EPA
• Dr. Antwi Boasiako Amoah, EPA
• Ms. Irene O. Messiba, Ministry of Transport
• Mr. Daniel Essel, Ministry of Transport
• Ms. Roselyn F. Adjei, Director Climate Change, Forestry Commission
• Head Climate Change Unit
• Mr. Joseph Osiakwan, MLNR
• Mr. Eric Kofi Afornorpe, MLGDRD
• Mr. Robert Mensah, Ministry of Finance
• Mr. Seth Mahu, Ministry of Energy
• Ing Fiifi Boadi, MoSWR
• Mr. Kingsley Amoako, MOFA
• Mr. Gyimah Mohammed, MESTI
• Ms. Juliana Bempah, EPA
• Mr. Daniel Lamptey, EPA
• Ms. Rosemary Boateng, EPA
• Ms. Juliet Ashiorkor, MESTI
• Abena Takyiwaa, MOF/V20
• Mr. Foster Gyamfi, MOF/V20
• Selamawit Desta Wubet, CVF

COP28, scheduled from November 30 to December 12, 2023, will be hosted at Expo City in Dubai. This conference holds the potential to shape global climate policies and actions, and Ghana’s committee, guided by Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, is fully committed to making a substantial impact