The Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Assembly (KKMA) has officially launched the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund 2.0, a global initiative aimed at empowering young people to lead community-driven climate action projects.
Addressing stakeholders at the launch, the Municipal Chief Executive described the initiative as a significant milestone in the Municipality’s commitment to building a sustainable and climate-resilient future. He noted that KKMA’s selection as one of 300 cities worldwide to implement the programme reflects international confidence in the Municipality and the potential of its youth.
The MCE stressed that climate change is no longer a future concern but a present reality, citing rising temperatures, floods, prolonged dry spells, coastal erosion and environmental degradation as major threats affecting communities across the country, including Kpone-Katamanso. He also highlighted rapid urbanisation, poor waste management and inadequate drainage systems as factors worsening the Municipality’s environmental challenges.
He called on residents to recognize that environmental protection is a shared responsibility requiring the active participation of every citizen, particularly young people whose innovation and creativity can drive meaningful change.
The Youth Climate Action Fund will provide grants ranging from US$1,000 to US$5,000 to young people aged 15 to 24 to implement practical climate solutions in their communities. Proposed projects may include tree planting, recycling initiatives, restoration of degraded lands, climate awareness campaigns and innovative waste management solutions.
The MCE encouraged schools, youth groups, community-based organisations and young entrepreneurs to take advantage of the funding opportunity by developing innovative proposals capable of delivering lasting environmental benefits.
He also appealed to technical officers and implementing partners to provide mentorship and guidance to applicants to ensure successful project implementation and maximize the programme’s impact.
Expressing gratitude to Bloomberg Philanthropies, the MCE commended the organisation for investing in local governments and empowering young people to become agents of climate action.
He further praised the Municipal Coordinating Director, the Municipal Planning Coordinating Unit and all stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in making the programme a reality.
In his closing remarks, the MCE challenged the youth to take ownership of the future, saying, “Do not wait for others to shape the future you desire. Become the generation that leads the change.”
He officially declared the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund 2.0 launched in the Kpone-Katamanso Municipality and expressed optimism that the programme would inspire innovation, strengthen partnerships and deliver lasting environmental impact for present and future generations.
