UNDP, UNEP, EPA, and Energy Commission Launches “AGORA” Project.

November 28, 2024
a group of people standing in front of a building

Group picture of the particants at the “AGORA” Project.

@Louisa Antwi/ UNDPGhana

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in a collaborative effort with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Energy Commission and other partners have launched The Abating Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Obsolete RAC Equipment in Ghana and Nigeria (AGORA). The AGORA project aims to improve the health and well-being of consumers, enhance economic opportunities and competitiveness of businesses, enhance electric grid stability, protect the ozone layer, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

The project which was funded by the Fonds Français pour l’Environnement Mondial (FFEM), seeks to bring together government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and local communities for a four-year implementation to tackle environmental and climate change issues. 

Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, Sukhrob Khoshmukhamedov noted that, “Our world today faces environmental insecurity and climate change challenges. At UNDP, we believe that tackling these issues requires collaboration across all sectors and levels, and it’s time for collective action to drive real change.” 

a person standing in front of a television

Sukhrob Khoshmukhamedov delivers a keynote speech at the inaugural launch of the 'AGORA' project.

@Louisa Antwi/ UNDPGhana

Ghana has made significant strides in addressing environmental concerns, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting energy efficiency, and the AGORA project will serve as a catalytic intervention to enhance economic opportunities, protect the ozone layer, and mitigate climate change impacts. 

Mr. Joseph Baffoe, Head of Climate Change and Ozone Department, EPA, stated in his remarks that “Over the years, Ghana has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing environmental issues, recognizing that their impacts often extend beyond national borders.”. He added that Ghana had ratified a number of international protocols on environment, including the Montreal Protocol on the Management of Ozone Depletion Substances and the Kigali Amendment on the Phase-Down of the Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). 

a man standing in front of a television

Mr. Joseph Baffoe, Head of Climate Change and Ozone Department, EPA delivering his remarks at the 'AGORA' project launch

@Louisa Antwi/ UNDPGhana

Seeking to create a pathway for inclusive and sustainable development, the AGORA project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action). 

During his address, Edwin Kwasi Tamakloe, Senior Officer at the Energy Efficiency Regulations Unit of Energy Commission reiterated that, “The success of this project relies on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. I encourage all stakeholders to come together and help refine the implementation plan and achieve the ambitious goals we’ve set for this project”. 

a person standing in front of a television

Edwin Kwasi Tamakloe, Senior Officer at the Energy Efficiency Regulations Unit of Energy Commission delivering his speech at the 'AGORA' project launch

@Louisa Antwi/ UNDPGhana

As we embark on this journey to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development, we are reminded that collective action is the key to driving real change. The AGORA project is a shining example of what can be achieved when we work together towards a common goal.