Ghana launches Early Warning for All Initiative to Enhance Climate Resilience
In a significant stride toward enhancing climate resilience, the Early Warning for All (EW4All) initiative was launched on October 29, 2024, in Accra, hosted by the Ghana Meteorological Agency and its partners. Supported by international collaborators, including the UN, WMO, UNDRR, IFRC, and ITU, this initiative aims to strengthen Ghana's preparedness for climate-related hazards. Built on four key pillars—Disaster Risk Knowledge, Observations and Forecasting, Dissemination and Communication, and Preparedness to Respond—EW4All seeks to ensure that all communities receive timely and actionable information for effective disaster response.
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Minister for Communications and Digitalization, emphasized the critical role of Multi-hazard Early Warning Systems (EWS) in reducing vulnerability and increasing community resilience. She stated that an effective multi-hazard early warning system must be accessible and inclusive for all segments of society, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The launch of the EW4All initiative represents a milestone for Ghana in reinforcing Multi-hazard Early Warning Systems through anticipatory action and resilience. Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful reaffirmed the country's commitment to building a resilient nation, urging collective efforts to ensure that every Ghanaian is protected by early warning systems.
Dr. Eric Asuman, Director-General of the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet), highlighted the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in EWS. He noted that strengthening early warning systems is vital for protecting lives and livelihoods, reducing economic losses, and supporting the sustainability of development goals.
Mira Togobo, representing the UN Resident Coordinator, emphasized the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, urging everyone to avoid working in silos and build synergies with ongoing initiatives to prevent duplication of efforts. She articulated that early warnings are not merely messages; they serve as essential tools for preserving life, protecting livelihoods, and sustaining development.
The EW4All initiative targets a wide array of stakeholders, including government institutions, ministries, development partners and donors, the private sector, local communities, academia, civil society organizations, and NGOs. Engaging these groups fosters collaboration and collective action toward enhancing early warning systems across Ghana.
As Ghana embarks on this critical journey, the commitment from national and international partners reinforces the nation’s resolve to enhance its climate resilience and safeguard its citizens against the impacts of climate change. The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders will be essential in ensuring the success of the EW4All initiative, ultimately leading to a more resilient and prepared Ghana.
