In a move that signals Ghana’s deepening commitment to global climate action and sustainable development, the Honourable Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Hon. Seidu Issifu, has pledged to strengthen ties with the Republic of Korea to accelerate climate cooperation.
The Minister made these remarks during a high-level luncheon meeting with Korea’s Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Park Kyongsig, held at the Korean Embassy in Accra.
The meeting marked the Minister’s first official engagement with the Korean Embassy since assuming office and served as a formal introduction of Ghana’s newly created Ministry of Climate Change and Sustainability. It also set the tone for renewed collaboration in climate finance, green industrialisation, and knowledge exchange between the two nations.
“This visit demonstrates Ghana’s commitment to forging strategic alliances that will deliver meaningful climate action.
“We recognise Korea’s expertise and leadership in renewable energy and decarbonisation, and we are grateful for the longstanding support provided through KOICA and other development initiatives.”
Hon. Seidu Issifu Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability
According to Hon. Issifu, the establishment of his Office reflects President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a cross-sectoral approach to tackling climate change, one that integrates public-private partnerships and promotes an inclusive green economy.
The Minister outlined Ghana’s ambitious climate roadmap, which includes the creation of a National Technical Working Committee to harmonise actions across all ministries.
He revealed plans for a Climate and Sustainability Hub to serve as a national centre for innovation, financing, and climate data management. In addition, the rollout of rooftop solar systems on public buildings is expected to significantly reduce the country’s energy liabilities and promote clean energy use nationwide.
“Our vision is to decentralise climate governance by establishing Climate and Sustainability Units across all Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and MMDAs.
“This will strengthen local resilience and embed climate-conscious practices in every aspect of governance.”
Hon. Seidu Issifu Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability
Ambassador Park welcomed these initiatives and underscored Korea’s readiness to share technical expertise drawn from its own transition to a low-carbon economy.
He noted that Korea has implemented extensive renewable energy programmes, electric vehicle deployment, and reforestation efforts as part of its climate action agenda.
“Korea is committed to supporting Ghana’s climate ambition.
“We are ready to assist in expanding Ghana’s carbon credit system, partner on clean cooking campaigns to uplift rural communities, and offer technical assistance through training, scholarships, and capacity-building programmes.”
His Excellency Park Kyongsig, Korea’s Ambassador to Ghana
He added that Korea’s development partners are exploring innovative ways to channel private sector investments into sustainability-focused projects in emerging markets like Ghana.
Joint Actions and Strategic Next Steps
Both parties agreed to launch a Ghana-Korea Climate Business Forum to convene investors and stakeholders from both countries. The forum is expected to stimulate partnerships in green infrastructure, renewable energy, and circular economy initiatives.
Plans for joint pilot projects in afforestation, solar power, and climate-smart agriculture were also discussed as immediate areas for collaboration.
“Our meeting is not just about ideas but action.
“Together, we will design and implement projects that demonstrate our shared commitment to resilience and innovation.”
Hon. Seidu Issifu Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability
Ambassador Park further assured that the Korean Embassy would support Ghana’s efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of its climate institutions.
The Minister reflected on the broader societal dimensions of climate action, stressing the importance of engaging religious leaders and communities in promoting environmental stewardship.
He also announced plans to collaborate with Ghana’s Attorney General’s Department to ensure climate policies and proposals are legally sound and enforceable.
This renewed Ghana-Korea partnership is widely seen as a model for Global South cooperation on climate change. Analysts say it combines Korea’s technological know-how and financial resources with Ghana’s determination to transition to a greener, more sustainable economy.
Hon. Issifu was optimistic about the outcomes of this partnership. “Through sustained collaboration and mutual respect, Ghana and Korea are poised to co-create a future defined by resilience, inclusivity, and sustainable development,” he said.
The meeting concluded with a roadmap for immediate follow-up actions, including detailed project proposals from Ghana’s Ministry of Climate Change and Sustainability and updates from the Korean Embassy on relevant capacity-building opportunities.
As global temperatures continue to rise and developing countries grapple with the twin challenges of adaptation and economic growth, this diplomatic engagement underscores the urgency of cross-border partnerships in addressing the climate crisis.
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