The Accra Metropolitan Assembly(AMA) has in collaboration with Bloomberg Philanthropies launched a Youth Climate Action Fund to combat climate change and also empower the youth.
Mayor of Accra, Elizabeth Sackey noted that the initiative is not just a project; but rather a movement towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
According to her, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, through the Climate Action Plan, has embarked on a series of climate mitigation actions and policies, including projects on municipal building energy audits towards developing green buildings program, rooftop planting, tree planting, the CLEAN project, source separation, and creating climate awareness.
She believes climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, affecting every aspect of our lives and environment and demands immediate and innovative action.
“Our youth are at the forefront of this fight with their boundless energy, creativity, and determination. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow but today’s leaders” she added.
She emphasized that through the Youth Climate Action Fund, they are providing the youth leaders, who are as engaged as they are in this climate fight, with the resources and support they need to turn their innovative ideas into impactful actions.
“This fund is designed to empower them to implement projects that will reduce carbon emissions, enhance sustainability, and promote environmental awareness across our city. Today’s launch signifies the beginning of a series of strategic steps we have outlined for the coming months and we are grateful to our partners, Bloomberg Philanthropies and UCLG” she added.
Project Lead, Daniel Asomani said, “the Youth Climate Fund microgrant program is open to individuals aged 15-24 who are passionate about driving positive environmental change in our city”.
“To be eligible, applicants must be part of an entity with formal incorporation or status, possess a bank account in their entity’s name, and demonstrate the capacity to effectively manage the funds”.
He explained that for youth-led groups that are not incorporated entities themselves, partnering with an eligible organization is encouraged to serve as the microgrant recipient and fund administrator.
“The application form is readily available on the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s website, and all necessary information regarding eligibility and grant agreement requirements can be accessed there”.
However, he noted that they are particularly interested in projects that focus on the following areas:
- Awareness, Education, Research, and Co-Development Initiatives.
- Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Initiative
- Youth-managed recycling and waste reduction programmes.
Deadline for submission of applications: 1st July 2024.