Youth empowerment for climate action in Ghana

Context

Youth in Ghana face significant challenges in climate resilience, including limited access to opportunities and resources, despite being among the most vulnerable to climate change impacts. Recognising the pivotal role of youth in driving climate action, this initiative builds on the CDKN Ghana programme’s commitment to inclusive, locally-led adaptation strategies. With a focus on innovation and leadership, the project equips young people to address critical climate risks while integrating their voices into policy and action. Aligned with Ghana’s National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), this project responds to the pressing need for youth involvement in sustainable development and climate action.

Project objectives

Strengthen the capacity of youth-led organisations to lead inclusive climate-resilient actions.
Enable innovative eco-entrepreneurship and green businesses among young people.
Enhance youth participation in local and national climate policymaking.
Increase access to climate knowledge and funding for youth-driven projects.

Project activities

Climate Activist Programme (CAP)

It seeks to train and mentor young climate leaders across Ghana, equipping them with advocacy, project management, and climate literacy skills. The first cohort trained over 35 young people as climate leaders and 14 community projects were initiated across the country.

Ecopreneurs Fellowship

It supports innovative green business ideas, offering technical assistance and small grants to young entrepreneurs in renewable energy and waste management sectors. Ten (10) youth-led businesses have been empowered, leading to innovative solutions in food systems, waste management, and clean energy.

Climate Awareness Challenge

Engage youth in creative competitions and workshops to promote climate literacy and innovative solutions at community and national levels.

Youth Negotiators Programme

Train young people to participate effectively in climate policy dialogues, ensuring youth perspectives are represented in decision-making forums like COP and national climate policies. Youth participation in Ghana’s climate policy processes increased by 70%, influencing key strategies like the NAP. Four young people and a CDKN mentor were part of the Ghana delegation at COP29 in Baku.

Early Career Research Support

Empower young researchers to transform climate research into actionable insights through training in communication and evidence-based policymaking. Engaged over 1,000 young people through knowledge-sharing tools like VR, podcasts, and community radio shows.

Youth-led Grassroots Organisation Support

It builds the capacity of grassroots organisations to lead community-based adaptation projects, focusing on inclusive (GESI and climate finance) and ecosystem-based approaches. A scoping exercise discovered about 160 youth-led grassroots organisations.

Outputs

Contact

For more information, visit https://cdknghana.org or email - prince@southsouthnorth.org/valerie@southsouthnorth.org