Bangkok:Ghana's Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Seidu Issifu, has emphasized the need for stronger parliamentary oversight and improved access to climate finance to aid vulnerable countries in building resilience against climate change.
According to Ghana Web, Issifu stated that climate financing should be accessible, affordable, predictable, and aligned with national development priorities to help countries manage climate shocks without exacerbating their debt burdens.
Speaking at the Climate Vulnerable Forum and V20 Global Parliamentary Group Dialogue in Bangkok, Thailand, Issifu highlighted the necessity for climate action to deliver tangible economic benefits, such as job creation, enhanced food and energy security, and improved livelihoods. The dialogue coincided with the 2026 IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings.
Issifu pointed out that countries vulnerable to climate change face increasing challenges due to climate-related shocks, rising debt, and limited fiscal capabilities, making access to climate finance crucial for their development. He referred to initiatives like the Vulnerability to Viability (V2V) Compact, Climate Prosperity Plans, and the V20 Lifeline Fund as vital tools for mobilizing investment and aiding countries in enduring climate shocks without hindering development.
Furthermore, the Minister stressed that international climate commitments must lead to implementation and measurable outcomes, with Parliament playing a crucial role in ensuring accountability. He urged lawmakers to promote policy continuity through legislation and cross-party consensus, align budgets with national development priorities, and strengthen oversight to ensure effective use of public funds.
Issifu also called for climate investments that address local needs and protect vulnerable communities, reaffirming his office's commitment to involving Parliament early in the climate policy process, sharing investment priorities, explaining financing arrangements, and reporting transparently on implementation. He emphasized that achieving climate prosperity requires a shift from plans to bankable projects and from commitments to investments, supported by stronger partnerships among governments, parliaments, financial institutions, and development partners.