The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, has emphasized the importance of creating awareness and sensitizing residents of border communities to sustain the peaceful and progressive relationship between Ghana and its neighbors. In a speech delivered on the floor of Parliament to commemorate African Border Day on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, the Damongo MP noted that border communities bear the brunt of border-related challenges, including the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation.
He urged their involvement in decision-making processes to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility, particularly in addressing cross-border environmental issues such as deforestation, pollution, and wildlife conservation. The Lands Minister highlighted the need for an all-encompassing approach involving all stakeholders, including local communities, traditional authorities, and civil society organizations, to ensure continued peace and development along the country’s boundaries.
He believes such an approach will have a greater impact and assist in building resilient border governance, adaptable to the challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability. Addressing the theme for the commemoration, “Educate an African Fit for the Twenty-First (21st) Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa,” the Minister commended the Ghana Boundary Commission for their outstanding work in promoting and ensuring Ghana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
He stressed that education is a powerful tool in promoting intercultural dialogue, tolerance, and mutual understanding, and must include environmental and climate change awareness to empower border communities to address these challenges. He urged cross-border exchanges, economic cooperation, and joint development projects to overcome barriers and create stronger border communities resilient to the impacts of climate change.
The Minister highlighted the Ghana Boundary Commission’s efforts in promoting peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries and resolving boundary disputes through peaceful cooperation, taking into account the transboundary nature of environmental and climate change challenges. “We must recognize the crucial significance of educating our citizens, particularly those in border communities, about the importance of land and maritime boundaries, environmental conservation, and climate change adaptation, and their role as stakeholders in safeguarding our international boundaries and promoting sustainable development,” he emphasized.