The 2026 Budget places significant emphasis on environmental protection and climate resilience, outlining a broad set of policies geared toward strengthening disaster preparedness, mobilising climate finance, and safeguarding Ghana’s natural ecosystems.
A major highlight is the expansion of the Ghana Green Finance Taxonomy (GGFT). Phase II of the framework, launched earlier this year, now covers sustainable construction, water management, and waste management. Phase III—scheduled for 2026—will extend the taxonomy to manufacturing, mining, and climate adaptation sectors, positioning Ghana as a leader in sustainable finance architecture on the continent.
The Government has also announced two major climate insurance initiatives. A sovereign drought insurance package has already been secured for the 2025/26 farming season, while preparations are underway to roll out a Parametric Flood Insurance Scheme in 2026 to protect 1.2 million residents in flood-prone areas of the Greater Accra Region.
Ghana continues to engage actively with the Green Climate Fund (GCF) as the country submitted a proposal to host the GCF Africa Regional Office and has already secured US$63.21 million for climate-resilient landscape projects in Northern Ghana and US$798,452 for multi-hazard early warning systems.
In the area of environmental enforcement, government has permanently deployed 1,000 officers to guard rivers, forests, and sensitive ecological zones. Illegal mining has been formally categorised as a national security threat, with intensified surveillance and coordinated action across agencies.
Urban greening is set for a boost as the Department of Parks and Gardens prepares to expand its landscaped areas from 1.6 million m² to 2.5 million m² in 2026, focusing on climate-smart tree planting and beautification of public spaces.
The 2026 Budget underscores government’s commitment to a climate-resilient future, linking environmental sustainability to economic stability, public health, and national security.
By: Christian Kpesese
