Meet Our Climate Partners
Ecocitizen
Nana Kwasi Opoku-Acheampong is a distinguished Ghanaian whose career spans teaching, journalism, public service, and private sector leadership.
He led The Pioneer newspaper, contributed to prominent international publications, and lectured at top Ghanaian institutions including the University of Ghana and the Institute of Professional Studies.
In 1983, he was appointed Presidential Aide, where he played a key role in government communications and advocated for environmental issues such as afforestation, wildlife protection, and water conservation.
In recognition of his developmental contributions to the Bomaa Traditional Area in Tano North, he was enstooled as Nkosuohene (Development Chief) in 1997.
Following his departure from public service in 2001, he founded the Sub-Sahara Synergy Group, a consultancy focused on fostering public-private partnerships for infrastructure projects.
Between 2010 and 2013, he returned to public office as Communications Specialist at the Ministry of Employment and Social Welfare. There, he played an important role in implementing the Single Spine Pay Policy and contributing to international labor policy such as the 2011 Domestic Workers Convention adopted in Geneva.
Personal Life: Nana Kwasi Opoku-Acheampong is married to Paulina Opoku-Acheampong. Together, they have four children.
Ghana's Climate Negotiator and Executive Director of the Alliance for Just Green Climate Innovations (AJGCI), Mrs. Angelina Ama Tutuah Mensah, has been elected Co-Chair of the prestigious Katowice Committee of Experts on the Impacts of the Implementation of Response Measures (KCI), under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
Her election was confirmed during the 12th meeting of the KCI (KCI 12) held on June 12, 2025, alongside Dr. Moustapha Kamal Gueye of Senegal. The meeting gathered a full quorum of experts and observers and also included strategic updates to the Committee’s rules of procedure and work programme.
This appointment is seen as a landmark for African and women’s leadership in global climate governance. As Co-Chair, Mrs. Mensah now plays a pivotal role in shaping international approaches to managing the social and economic impacts of climate policies—particularly for vulnerable communities in developing countries.
Under her leadership, the KCI is prioritizing gender inclusion, equity, and support for vulnerable populations. Highlights from KCI 12 included review of a new policy brief on these dimensions, updates on six regional case studies, and the development of best practices on policy co-benefits.
In line with the Committee’s focus on capacity building, e-learning modules were launched to support onboarding and continuous development. The meeting also introduced a color-coded system to help track progress across workstreams and reported back from the UN Climate Change Conference in Baku.
Case studies and technical papers will be finalized ahead of KCI 13, with a guidebook preview and webinar series planned to broaden stakeholder engagement.
Mrs. Mensah’s election is more than symbolic—it confirms Africa’s rising leadership in climate conversations. With deep experience as a climate justice advocate, negotiator, and communicator, she is expected to help guide the KCI’s future toward even more inclusive, equitable outcomes.
The Katowice Committee of Experts supports the implementation of climate response measures with minimal negative socioeconomic impacts—especially in vulnerable nations. The Committee serves as a vital technical body for guidance, capacity building, and knowledge-sharing under the UNFCCC framework.
Mary Adjoa Owusu is an Upcycling Designer specializing in creating art pieces, home, and office décor using reclaimed wood and other disused materials. She repurposes these materials into unique, high-value designs that emphasize sustainability and creativity.
Her expertise in upcycling is driven by several key factors: Self-taught efforts and practical skills nurtured through experience; eco-friendly, futuristic, and inventive designs with contemporary and cultural undertones; promotion of livelihood empowerment among disadvantaged youth in the community; and responsible material sourcing with strict quality control.
Mary has participated in numerous fairs and bazaars, showcasing and supplying her products to various shops and hotels. She is the Owner and Founder of Sweetpea Handicrafts, which has been in existence for eight years.
In addition to her work as an Upcycling Designer and Artist, Mary is a Human Resources Professional with over thirty years of experience in both the public and private sectors. She has a proven track record in Business Management, Human Resources Management, Administration, and Project Management.
She has successfully developed and implemented strategies, policies, and tools to improve organizational goals. Her extensive HR background includes roles such as HR Consultant at Ernst & Young Ghana, providing consultancy services internationally and locally; Head of HR at Intercontinental Bank Ghana, later serving as Head of Administration and Branch Development; HR Manager at PZ Cussons; and Director of HR & Administration at the National Health Insurance Authority.
Mary is currently the Human Resources Consultant for Naroc HR Consult Limited.
Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts Degree in French and Russian, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (Human Resource Management), and additional certificates from various local and international programs and conferences.
Beyond her professional career, Mary has dedicated her time to leadership and volunteer initiatives. She has served as the President of ATAG Craft Network of Ghana and participated in multiple volunteer programs, including the Phoenix Women’s Health Organisation and Mentoring Walk Programme.
Afua B. Ansre (Dr.) is a Senior Gender Specialist with UN Women. She is also the Founder of The Innovations Village Seed Company, an institution that identifies and commercializes promising innovations aimed at improving the wellbeing of people. She also leads the Innovations Village Foundation.
Afua has served as an Entrepreneurship Capstone Advisor for the prestigious Ashesi University in the past. She was the National Programme Coordinator for the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and has consulted for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Before joining FAO and UN Women, Afua worked at several reputable organizations, including the UK Department for International Development (DfID) in Ghana, the Ghana National Development Planning Commission, SNV – Netherlands Development Organisation, American Peace Corps, and the Institute for Development Policy and Management (IDPM) at the University of Manchester, UK.
Afua is a keen development practitioner with extensive experience as a trainer, policy analyst, planner, programmer, evaluator, and administrator/manager. Her knowledge spans multiple sectors, including peace and security, agriculture, health and education, water and sanitation, HIV and AIDS, and community and rural development.
Her expertise in gender and development has been a fundamental part of her career.
Afua is actively engaged in several informal activities. She was a member of the Society for Women and AIDS in Africa (SWAA) Ghana Chapter and the Africa Global Link Projects. Additionally, she dedicates time to empowering young women in her community with basic literacy and numeracy skills.
She received her education at Achimota School and the University of Ghana, Legon, in Accra, Ghana. Her academic achievements include a Master’s degree in Social Development Planning and Management from the University of Swansea, Wales (UK), a Master’s degree in the Study of Religions from the University of Ghana, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from the Nobel International Business School (Ghana) and IPAG (Paris, France).
Angelina Ama Tutuah Mensah is a distinguished professional with over 30 years of experience in public service, corporate communication, public relations, and environmental management, specializing in climate change policy and negotiations.
Known for intellectual agility, I excel in high-responsibility roles, leveraging expertise in technical and creative writing, communication, and IT. A collaborative team player, I prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and contribute to research and training.
As co-chair of the UNFCCC’s Katowice Committee of Experts on the Impacts of Response Measures (KCI), I serve as a National Expert and Negotiator for Ghana’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), focusing on response measures, just transition, and gender in Ghana’s National Communications and Biennial Update Reports.
As the founder and Executive Director of Alliance for Just Green Climate Innovations, I drive sustainable solutions for climate resilience and environmental justice.
I pioneered the AKOBEN Environmental Performance and Public Disclosure concept in Ghana’s mining industry, enhancing transparency. As part of the Liaison Group, I contributed to the Mining in Forest Reserves Agenda, leading to the EPA Regulation 2022 (LI2462). I also played a key role in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) administration, including public hearings and compliance monitoring.
I have led gender mainstreaming in Ghana’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and coordinated the EPA-ILO Green Jobs Assessment Model (GJAM) to assess NDC-related social and employment impacts.
A former columnist for The Weekly Spectator (“Think About This”), I authored over 100 articles on gender, environment, and climate change, and contributed to The Daily Graphic.
Available at: UNFCCC Mitigation Workstreams
Fellow of NUFFIC and Langkawi Awards. Holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Urban Management Tools for Climate Change (Erasmus University Rotterdam) and a Master’s in Journalism Studies (University of Wales, Cardiff). Trained in journalism, mass communication, environmental education, and urban management.
Practicing Catholic and Eucharistic Minister at Christ the King Catholic Church, Accra.
Dr. (Mrs.) Charity Sarpong is a Public Health Physician Specialist with over 31 years of experience in Ghana’s health sector. She has served as a Clinician, Health Manager, and Public Health Advocate, with expertise in Maternal and Child Health, Immunization, Environmental Health, and Health Systems strengthening. She has extensive experience in Health Management, Leadership, Quality Assurance/Improvement, and Policy Formulation.
She is a seasoned hospital leadership expert with over 14 years in hospital management at regional and district levels. Prior to retirement, she was the Regional Director of Health Services for the Greater Accra Region, where she led the regional COVID-19 response. She also served as Medical Director of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge) and Tema General Hospital, and as Head of Human Resource and Training at the Greater Accra Health Directorate.
Dr. Sarpong has clinical experience in both public and private facilities, including Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ridge Hospital, and Tema General Hospital. She contributed to national policies such as the Quality Assurance Policy for Ghana Health Service and the Infection Prevention and Control Policy. She has participated in numerous local and international training and conferences.
She holds a BSc in Human Biology and MB.ChB from KNUST, an MBA and MPH from the University of Ghana, and a Diploma in Health Systems Management from Galilee Institute, Israel. She is also a Member of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Veronica Nonhlanhla Jakarasi is the Head of Climate Finance at The AECF, LLC (formerly, Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund). She previously served as the Climate Finance and Sustainability Manager at the Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ). With over a decade of experience working for the Government of Zimbabwe, she was instrumental in establishing the Climate Change Management Department in 2014 and has been deeply involved in resource mobilisation, policy analysis, formulation, and implementation related to climate change.
Mrs. Jakarasi coordinates the Gender and Climate Change theme for the Group of 77 and China, and supports the African Group of Negotiators as a lead negotiator for Mitigation in the global climate change negotiations under the UNFCCC framework.
She has authored academic papers and book chapters on climate finance, gender, and disaster management, and is a seasoned trainer on topics including climate finance, sustainability, gender and climate change, climate diplomacy, and green procurement. Her leadership also extends to governance, serving on various national and regional boards and currently holding the position of Board Chairperson of the Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe.
Ms. Winfred Osimbo Lichuma is a seasoned international human rights advocate and gender specialist with over 30 years of leadership experience across domestic, regional, and international levels.
She has worked extensively on integrating gender and social inclusion into development programs, business and human rights, policy, law, board governance, and gender mainstreaming. Her areas of specialization include international human rights law, women’s rights, social justice, and economic, social, and cultural rights, with a focus on political participation and access to justice.
She has actively promoted Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, and has supported the implementation of select Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As a lead climate change negotiator, Ms. Lichuma played a pivotal role in the adoption of the first-ever Climate Change Gender Action Plan in 2016. She also brings expertise in Kenya’s Constitution 2010 and has led devolution training and impact assessments on women.
Ms. Lichuma is a respected facilitator and strategic leader known for advancing intersectionality in programming and policy, and for championing women’s rights at national and global levels. Her advocacy has shaped laws and resolutions through strong negotiation, consensus building, and high-level engagement.
As a practicing Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, she applies sound judgment and effective feedback mechanisms to promote collaborative, rights-based, and results-driven environments.
Kingsley Ekow Gurah-Sey is a distinguished environmental law expert and senior public servant with nearly 30 years of experience in environmental governance, legal advisory, and biodiversity conservation. He currently serves as Director of the Environmental Assessment and Management Department at Ghana’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he provides strategic leadership in policy formulation, impact assessment oversight, regulatory development, and compliance enforcement.
A qualified lawyer and member of the Ghana Bar Association, Mr. Gurah-Sey holds an LLM in Environmental and Energy Law from the University of Birmingham, a Qualifying Certificate in Law from the Ghana School of Law, and an LLB from the University of Ghana. His academic background also includes training in food science, biodiversity conservation, and biological sciences from KNUST, the University of Ghana, and the University of Dresden.
At the EPA, he has held various senior roles including Acting Director of the Legal Department, Principal Programme Officer in the Natural Resources Department, and Programme Officer in Conventions and Inspectorate. He has represented Ghana at major international conferences, including several UNFCCC COPs, and contributed to key policy processes in climate change, biosafety, and environmental regulation.
Mr. Gurah-Sey played a leading role in drafting major regulations such as the Vehicular Emissions Regulations, Ambient Noise Control Regulations, and the amended Environmental Assessment Regulations. He also co-authored strategic documents like the Strategic Environmental Assessment Report for Ghana’s Petroleum Hub and the National Biodiversity Reports.
He is respected for his unique blend of scientific and legal expertise and his contributions to Ghana’s environmental assessment and compliance frameworks. Beyond the EPA, he has experience in legal practice with Gaizie Zwennes Hughes & Co., served as a Science Master at Cambridge School Complex, and coordinated community projects under Ghana’s National Service Secretariat.
Dr. Edmund Ilimoan Yamba is a Senior Lecturer and Research Scientist in the Department of Meteorology and Climate Science at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. He holds a BSc in Physics and MSc in Geophysics from KNUST, and a PhD in Meteorology and Climate Science from the University of Cologne, Germany. Since joining KNUST in 2018, he has contributed significantly to teaching, research, and departmental leadership, serving as Examination Officer and Postgraduate Studies Coordinator.
Dr. Yamba’s expertise spans climate-sensitive health modeling, biometeorology, biostatistics, data science, and climate change and human health. He is proficient in FORTRAN, Python, R, and Shell scripting, with advanced skills in Linux-based computing, LaTeX, data visualization, and scientific computing.
His research focuses on the impact of climate variability on vector-borne diseases, heat-related illnesses, and air pollution. He is currently a Co-Investigator on several major projects, including the Global South AI4PEP-funded RAPIDVBP project (2023–2027) on AI-based public health surveillance, a Wellcome Trust-funded climate-health cohort study (2024–2027), and a mobile health (mHealth) initiative (2024–2025) enhancing healthcare access in underserved communities.
Dr. Yamba’s life philosophy centers on leveraging his expertise to lead positive change and mentor the next generation of critical thinkers and innovators. He is passionate about mentoring young scientists and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to address public health and climate challenges.
Kwesi Baah Odum is a seasoned operations and business leader with over 25 years of experience across mining operations, specialty chemical services, and regional business management in Ghana and West Africa. He has built a distinguished career leading cross-functional teams, managing large-scale industrial projects, and fostering strong relationships with clients, communities, and regulatory stakeholders.
Kwesi most recently served as Area Manager for ImproChem Pty Ltd, where he oversaw chemical services for the mining and industrial sectors in Ghana. He previously held senior roles with Clariant Southern Africa and Sud-Chemie, managing sales portfolios and delivering tailored technical solutions that aligned with environmental compliance and sustainability goals.
Earlier in his career, Kwesi held operational and leadership roles at JOKARAB Ltd, Abosso Goldfields Ltd, and Teberebie Goldfields Ltd, where he was instrumental in optimizing production processes and improving safety and environmental performance. He began his professional journey as a Chemistry Teacher at Ghana Secondary Technical School (GSTS), where he inspired young minds in science and practical education.
Kwesi’s core competencies span program and operations management, stakeholder engagement, environmental and safety compliance, strategic planning, capacity building, and public communication. His career reflects a deep commitment to ethical leadership, sustainable development, and cross-sector collaboration.
Vivian A. N. Nuhu (née Omaboe) is an Independent Consultant in Nature Conservation and a seasoned Communication Specialist with expertise in advocacy and outreach programs for diverse audiences.
With a strong background in public speaking, exhibitions, and wildlife filmmaking, she served as the Public Relations Manager of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission until her retirement in November 2010. Her extensive experience spans wildlife management and park planning, zoo management and field staff training, tourism and hotel management, and conservation education for public awareness (CEPA).
She played a pivotal role in curbing the killing of seashore birds, notably the roseate tern migrating along the Atlantic flyway between Britain and Africa, under the Save the Seashore Birds Project-Ghana (1986–1999). She is also the initiator of the Wildlife Clubs of Ghana, the junior wing of the Ghana Wildlife Society.
Mrs. Nuhu studied science at Aburi Girls Secondary School and made history as the first Ghanaian female to earn the Gold Award of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme in 1971. She became the first African female ranger to earn both Certificate and Diploma (with distinction) from the College of African Wildlife Management (CAWM), Mweka, Tanzania (1973–1975). Her academic credentials also include a Degree in Renewable Natural Resources Management from KNUST and a Post-certificate in Conservation Education from ICCE, UK.
A trained ministerial counselor and a long-time mentor with Mentoring Women Ghana, she is widely respected for inspiring and guiding others, particularly young women, in conservation and life development.
Khiddir Iddris is a dynamic and motivated professional deeply rooted in the fields of sustainable development, renewable energy, and environmental governance. With over seven years of multidisciplinary experience, he has led impactful projects in climate-smart agriculture, energy efficiency, circular economy, and public policy advocacy.
Khiddir currently serves as the Lead for Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) and Strategy & Growth Manager at the Institute of Climate and Environmental Governance (ICEG), where he champions data-driven impact tracking and organizational development.
His earlier roles include:
Khiddir holds:
He is a multilingual communicator, fluent in English, German, Arabic, Hausa, Dagbani, and Twi, with expertise in:
His certifications reflect his commitment to integrating renewable energy and sustainability into national and local development agendas.
Emmanuel Ameyaw is a Communications Specialist with a strong interest in Climate Adaptation and Sustainability. He is the Founder of The Climate Insight, where he employs diverse communication tools to enhance climate awareness and education in Ghana.
Climate Advocacy & Engagement: Through his work, Emmanuel engages with stakeholders across government, civil society, and international organizations to amplify youth voices on climate change and environmental justice.
Previous Roles: Emmanuel previously served as Communications Officer for the Youth Climate Council Ghana, where he shaped the organization’s communications strategy and supported over 200 youth activists and youth-led environmental organizations. He has worked with several youth-focused international organizations, including Care About Climate, African Youth Mobilization for COP, Loss and Damage Youth Coalition, UNCCD Youth, and the UNFCCC Youth Constituency (YOUNGO) Communications Working Group.
Climate Journalism & Storytelling: Emmanuel is the Co-Founder of the Climate Journalists Network Ghana, where his commitment to climate storytelling continues to inspire a new generation of climate communicators in the Global South.
Recognitions & Fellowships: His extensive work in climate communications and advocacy has earned him recognition as an Innovate4Climate Media Fellow (2021), CJID West Africa Climate Media Fellow (2022), and New Narratives Clean Air Fellow (2023).
Mary O. Anim-Appiah is the Operations Director at Alliance for Just Green Climate Innovation (AGZ), where she initially joined as Finance and Administration Lead, focusing on administrative activities.
Ms. Anim-Appiah has extensive experience in operations management and project execution. Her expertise spans:
Prior to joining AGZ, she held key roles in finance and operations across multiple USAID-funded projects, including:
She also worked with Ernst & Young International as an Executive Officer and has experience in private business sectors.
Ms. Anim-Appiah holds:
She is a Ghanaian citizen and a resident, fluent in English with conversational proficiency.
Nicholas Effah, a student at the WA Methodist School for the Blind, impressed me during a chance encounter at the Harmonia Fundraising Music Concert held at the Nubuke Foundation on Saturday, May 24th, 2025. Our brief conversation inspired him to compose a song effortlessly on the spot—a powerful reminder of how creativity can shine through even the briefest connection.
This moment highlights the ongoing collaboration between AJGCI and the School as they work together to launch climate change awareness programs and a series of interactive webinars that empower and engage youth in environmental advocacy and innovation.
Yakubu Adam is a dynamic Energy and Environmental Policy Strategist and a committed advocate for impactful climate action, focused on shaping equitable low-carbon futures in Africa and across the Global South.
With close to a decade of experience in public policy analysis, research, and advocacy, Yakubu bridges energy systems modeling, participatory development, and climate diplomacy to advance community-driven climate solutions that inform just and sustainable transitions.
Yakubu is currently a Research Assistant at the Green Economy Lab (GEL) at the University of Delaware, where he supports policy-relevant research on just transitions and nature-based solutions for developing countries.
He also collaborates with the Island Policy Lab, informing resilience strategies and NbS frameworks for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Yakubu’s career spans grassroots to global action. As Policy Coordinator (Volunteer) at Ghana’s Institute for Energy Security (IES), he has led initiatives on:
Internationally, he represents Ghana as a Youth Climate Negotiator at COP28 and serves as a 2024 Youth Fellow of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF).
Yakubu has worked with Participatory Development Associates (PDA) Ltd to deliver evidence-based projects for leading international partners, including:
His work focuses on advancing gender-responsive, youth-led, and socially inclusive development policies.
An entrepreneur at heart, Yakubu co-founded:
Stella Funsani Gama is a seasoned forestry and climate change expert from Malawi with over 24 years of professional experience in forest resources management, climate diplomacy, and gender-responsive policy development. Currently serving as a Technical Advisor at Malawi’s Ministry of Forestry and Natural Resources, she has held several high-level roles including Director of Forestry and Deputy Director overseeing Central Zone operations.
Stella is a respected international climate negotiator, representing Malawi and the Least Developed Countries (LDC) Group at the UNFCCC, where she has served as Rapporteur to the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), Vice Chair of the Technology Executive Committee, and lead negotiator on gender and technology. Her expertise spans project management, REDD+, catchment management, forest biodiversity, and community-based natural resource management.
A strong advocate for gender equality, she has authored and co-authored key papers linking gender and climate, and she plays a leading role in several global networks including the European Capacity Building Initiative (ecbi) and the Africa-Europe Foundation.
Beyond her technical and policy expertise, Stella is a committed champion for inclusive environmental governance. She has worked extensively to build local capacity in climate resilience and biodiversity conservation, leading multi-sectoral teams on complex programs such as the Shire River Basin Management and REDD+ Readiness initiatives. Her leadership is grounded in participatory approaches, stakeholder coordination, and evidence-based planning.
Stella holds a Master of Science in Forestry from the University of Malawi and has undertaken further training in climate change, diplomacy, and environmental impact assessment in Germany, the US, and across Africa. She is also deeply passionate about empowering women and youth in environmental leadership.
Mahamadu Sirina is an accomplished leader and advocate with a distinguished career in disability rights, inclusive education, and organizational development. As the National Vice President of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), she has played a pivotal role in advancing the inclusion of persons with disabilities within educational settings and society at large.
Sirina holds an MSc in Organisational Development from the University for Development Studies (UDS), a Bachelor of Education (Science) from the University of Education, Winneba, and professional certifications in Disability Inclusive Sector Planning (UNICEF) and International Cultural Diplomacy. Her career within the Ghana Education Service includes serving as Deputy Director of Education and Director of Education Management Information Systems (EMIS), where she was responsible for records and data collection. She has also served as an Integrated Science Teacher at the secondary level.
Throughout her career, Sirina has demonstrated success in empowering individuals with disabilities through steadfast advocacy, capacity-building, and inclusive education initiatives. She has represented the GFD as an executive board member at district, regional, and national levels, and has actively contributed to partnerships with national and international organizations. She is also a member of the Engaging Media and Minorities to Act for Peacebuilding (EMMAP) initiative.
Her core skills include leadership in disability advocacy, organizational development, inclusive education, data collection and analysis, and international cultural diplomacy. She has participated in numerous national and international workshops focused on disability-inclusive sector planning.
Board Membership Statement:
“I look forward to leveraging my expertise to advance the board’s work, particularly in addressing climate change and its impact on persons with disabilities, as well as promoting inclusion and disability rights.”
Youth Climate Advocate | SFS Georgetown University
Anwesha Nath is an Assamese-Indigenous youth climate advocate currently pursuing a degree in International Economics at SFS Georgetown University. She has represented youth voices across global platforms including COP28, COY18, COY19, RCOY MENA, RCOY APAC, COP29, ECOSOC Youth Forum, and the Petersburg Climate Dialogue. She is presently attending SB62 in Bonn as the YOUNGO representative in the Katowice Committee of Experts (KCI-12), contributing to response measures and just transition dialogues.
In addition, she serves as host and national coordinator for the YOUNGO Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) in the UAE (2024) and Qatar (2025), leading national youth consultations and policy submissions aligned with the UNFCCC Global Youth Statement. Anwesha has delivered interventions on behalf of youth constituencies at high-level events and supported negotiations in climate finance, nature-based solutions, and adaptation strategies.
Beyond advocacy, she has held positions at the Centre for Finance, Technology and Entrepreneurship (CFTE) in Dubai and worked as an ESG intern at Omnicom Media Group, focusing on corporate sustainability and AI-fintech curriculum development across the GCC.
Her academic and research interests include environmental economics, particularly climate finance, just transition mechanisms, biodiversity governance, and socio-economic impacts of climate-induced resource misallocation. Recognized by Forbes for her leadership in sustainability, Anwesha continues to advocate for meaningful youth inclusion in global policymaking—especially for underrepresented communities.
Stockholm Convention Focal Point, Ghana Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
Michael Onwona-Kwakye is a highly motivated and organized Environmental Scientist with extensive expertise in environmental science, pollution control, chemical management, and risk assessment. He is known for his strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and leadership skills—excelling in both individual and collaborative roles across research and project coordination.
Michael currently serves at Ghana’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) as the Stockholm Convention Focal Point and acts as the EPA liaison for the Climate Action Programme for the Chemical Industry (CAPCI). He has led pesticide risk assessments, supported enforcement of environmental regulations, and contributed to climate change initiatives such as the Montreal Protocol.
His research interests include chemical stress ecology, ecological risk assessment, and the impact of contaminants on ecosystems. Michael holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Wageningen University, along with a Master’s in Environmental Science and a Bachelor’s in Agriculture.
With a strong track record in team leadership, project management, and scientific research, Michael has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and contributed to international conferences, workshops, and training sessions related to environmental protection, chemical management, and climate policy. His career is marked by proven success in promoting sustainable environmental practices and regulatory frameworks.
Una May Gordon is a distinguished environmental specialist celebrated for her profound expertise in harmonizing policy development and programme implementation within agribusiness, natural resource management, and climate change adaptation and mitigation.
With more than four decades of experience at the intersection of policy formulation and execution, Ms. Gordon is a leading authority in climate change and developmental planning. Her remarkable career spans:
Between 2016 and July 2022, she served as Principal Director of Climate Change at Jamaica’s Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, where she:
Areas of Expertise:
Professional Background:
Education:
Current Focus:
Ms. Gordon is now an independent consultant committed to:
Held at: World Conference Centre Bonn, Room Berlin, 19 June 2025
Social consensus has become a cornerstone for climate action that is not only inclusive and resilient, but above all effective. As Parties stepped up efforts to decarbonize their economies in line with the Paris Agreement—limiting global warming to well below 2°C and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels—it became more critical than ever to promote inclusive governance mechanisms that ensure no one is left behind.
In this context, social dialogue, uniting governments, workers, and employers, was shown to be a powerful catalyst for just transitions, supporting decent work, economic resilience, and social protection.
Signed at the 2024 Hamburg Sustainability Conference, the Call to Action highlighted the importance of coordinated global efforts to achieve a socially just transition towards a low-carbon and resilient economy that fosters sustainable growth, decent work, and social inclusion, in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 13. Integrating just transition principles and social dialogue into countries’ climate strategies—including Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), and Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS)—was recognized as a key step to support equitable climate action.
The Call to Action invited governments, workers' and employers' organizations, and all other relevant stakeholders to strengthen cooperation in promoting social dialogue globally through partnerships and practical solutions, aiming to accelerate a just transition in all countries and support sustainable development in its economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
This event explored how social dialogue served as a key enabler of just, inclusive, and resilient transition processes. The initiative aimed to maximize environmental, economic, and social benefits while mitigating the risks of job losses and rising inequalities associated with the green transition. Discussions highlighted experiences from diverse regions, showcased concrete policy tools and frameworks, and encouraged stronger national and international engagement with the Call to Action.
Based on the ILO’s publication “Call to Action: fostering social dialogue for a just transition to a resilient low-carbon economy,” which explored the key priorities for joint actions for just transitions on all levels, the event fostered knowledge exchange on policies and practices that promote social justice in climate action. It encouraged more countries to commit to just transition through strengthened social dialogue at all levels.
In summary, the event at World Conference Centre Bonn, Room Berlin, on 19 June 2025, enabled a rich exchange of knowledge and experiences on fostering social dialogue for just transitions, inspiring stronger national and international commitments to equitable and inclusive climate action, with Angelina Mensah’s contributions providing particular depth and leadership to the discussions.
Ibrahim Adan holds an MSc in Energy and Environmental Management from Twente University, The Netherlands, and has 18 years of experience working across both private and public sectors in energy, occupational health and safety, climate change, and environmental management within Africa. He is a registered lead expert and safety advisor with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Directorate of Occupational Health and Safety-Kenya, with deep expertise in managing environmental and safety sectors across Eastern Africa.
Adan has significant technical expertise in energy management, climate change, environmental social safeguards, and sustainability, particularly in the East Africa region. His work spans project concept notes, impact assessments, climate change mitigation and adaptation programme management, and environmental quality measurements—covering air, water, soil, and noise analysis. He also specializes in environmental policy design, strategy, and institutional frameworks for deploying renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives at both national and corporate levels.
He is a lead climate change negotiator and a regular participant at climate and energy forums such as UNFCCC COPs, with in-depth knowledge of mechanisms that support the transition to low-carbon technologies and solutions.
His specialties include: sustainable energy (energy efficiency and renewable energy project management), climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, project feasibility studies, policy design and evaluation, climate negotiations, carbon markets, clean energy financing, stakeholder engagement, capacity building and training, air quality monitoring, noise surveys, soil and effluent discharge analysis, project monitoring and evaluation, stakeholder analysis and survey methods. He is also an ISO 14001, OSHAS 18001, and ISO 9001:2015 certified lead auditor.
Ing. Ransford Sekyi is a seasoned environmental and mining engineer from Ghana, formerly Deputy Executive Director (Operations) at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ghana, with nearly 30 years of experience. He led EPA’s national and regional activities, particularly within the Mining Department, implementing initiatives to improve mining and environmental management.
He is now the Founder and CEO of Environmental Advisory and Services Group Limited, offering consultancy on environmental compliance and regulatory advisory, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) strategy and risk management, social performance, community engagement and conflict resolution, as well as environmental audits and due diligence.
Ing. Sekyi holds an MSc in Mining Engineering, with further studies in strategic management and mining/environmental issues. He is a member of the Ghana Institute of Engineers and an author of technical reports and research papers.
Key achievements include: architecting Ghana’s Environmental Performance and Public Disclosure program (“Akoben”), establishing the National Technical Committee on Tailings Dam (NTCTD), improving surface water quality in mining communities, facilitating a $10 million Sustainable Development Fund for affected communities, serving on UNEP’s working group for global mercury assessment, developing guidelines for mining in forest reserves and reclamation criteria for mining companies, and leading major environmental audits and investigations—including high-profile cases with international organizations.
He has contributed to academic research, student supervision, and professional development in environmental management and mining. Ing. Sekyi continues to promote sustainable resource use, stakeholder engagement, and environmental best practices both in Ghana and internationally.
The Adaptation in Action: Building Resilience in Africa dinner dialogue was successfully held on 20 June in Bonn, bringing together key stakeholders to explore strategies for advancing climate adaptation across the continent.
The evening featured vibrant engagement and insightful contributions, underscoring the shared commitment to building climate resilience throughout Africa. Discussions centered on aligning Africa’s adaptation ambitions with shared goals ahead of the Africa Climate Summit and COP30, encouraging cross-sector collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Participants highlighted best practices, opportunities, and pressing needs to accelerate inclusive adaptation responses. This gathering affirmed the importance of continued partnership in the journey toward a climate-resilient Africa.
The organizers extend heartfelt thanks to all attendees for their time, ideas, and spirit of cooperation. Their presence made the event a meaningful milestone in the continent’s adaptation journey.