The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called on the Budget Committee of Parliament to prioritise funding for climate initiatives, especially those targeting methane emission reduction and the promotion of green technologies.
Expressing frustration over the chronic underfunding of the Legislature, Mr Bagbin revealed that Parliament has struggled to secure even one percent of national revenue for its operations. He cited the deteriorating conditions of MPs’ offices, including malfunctioning air conditioners, as evidence of the financial constraints facing the institution.
The Speaker made the remarks during the launch of a strategic partnership between the Parliament of Ghana and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) under a two-year project titled “Enhancing Parliamentary Action on Climate Change: Strengthening the Role of Parliament in Reducing Methane Emissions.”
The initiative seeks to build the capacity of Members of Parliament to effectively advocate for policies and actions that curb methane emissions—a potent greenhouse gas with a significant impact on global warming. Through workshops, expert engagements, and legislative support, the project aims to position Parliament as a central player in Ghana’s climate response.
Members of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Environment, Science and Technology and the Climate Change Caucus will form the core group of legislators driving national efforts to minimise methane emissions.
Mr Bagbin emphasised that climate change was not a distant concern but a pressing global crisis that required decisive legislative leadership. He urged Parliament to invest in methane reduction and green innovation as part of its contribution to securing a sustainable future for Ghana.
Representing the IPU Secretary-General, Mr Alex Ogutu, the IPU Africa Focal Person on the Methane Project, commended Ghana’s longstanding commitment to climate resilience and praised Speaker Bagbin for his leadership in advancing environmental action.
He announced that the Global Methane Hub is providing funding for the project and expressed optimism that Ghana would lead regional efforts to strengthen climate action across West Africa.
The strategic partnership marks a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship and legislative innovation. As the project progresses, it is expected to deepen collaboration between Ghanaian lawmakers and international climate experts, positioning Parliament as a key actor in shaping effective climate policy and protecting the environment for future generations.
