Savannah region: The King of Gonjaland, Yagbonwura Bikunuto Jewu Soale I, has pledged the support of the Gonja Traditional Council for the Government's climate change agenda, emphasizing the readiness of traditional leaders to collaborate with the state in environmental protection and building climate resilience.
According to Ghana Web, the pledge was made during a courtesy call on Yagbonwura by the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Seidu Issifu, in the Savannah Region on July 22, 2026. This visit was part of a nationwide stakeholder consultation on climate governance and sustainability. Addressing the gathering, Yagbonwura expressed the commitment of traditional authorities to national efforts in safeguarding the environment. He highlighted the role of traditional leadership as custodians of lands, forests, water bodies, and cultural heritage, underscoring the sacred duty to future generations in protecting the environment.
Seidu Issifu, during the engagement, emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in achieving Ghana's climate objectives. He noted that traditional leaders, as custodians of ecosystems, can help in rooting lasting climate solutions within communities. The collaboration between the Government and traditional leadership is seen as essential in building a climate-resilient Ghana. Additionally, Savannah Regional Minister Salisu Be-Awuribe highlighted the importance of collaboration among government, traditional authorities, and development partners to translate consultations into practical actions that enhance climate resilience in the region.
The initiative aims to establish a National Climate Change and Sustainability Hub and Climate Change and Sustainability Units within various governmental bodies. The minister's visit included key officials such as the Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Be-Awuribe, the Savannah Regional Coordinating Director, and representatives from the Regional Coordinating Council, Ghana Meteorological Agency, and the Global Centre for Climate Mobility.