Ghanaian presidential representative Ernest Brogya Genfi has called on African leaders to invest more in early warning systems and disaster preparedness, warning that timely information can help reduce the impact of floods, droughts and other climate-related emergencies.
Mr Brogya Genfi made the appeal at the opening session of the Fourth Biennale on Water Security, Governance and Resilience in Africa, currently taking place in Luanda, Angola.
He is attending the conference on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, according to a statement he shared on Facebook.
The event focuses on water security, governance and resilience, issues that have become increasingly important as African countries confront climate-related risks and challenges in managing water resources.
Mr Brogya Genfi argued that governments should move beyond responding to disasters after they occur and instead strengthen systems that can identify risks early and support timely action.
He said reliable and timely information could save lives, protect livelihoods and reduce the human and economic costs associated with extreme weather events.
His remarks point to the need for African countries to strengthen risk monitoring and preparedness as part of broader efforts to manage the effects of climate change.
Women and young people
Mr Brogya Genfi also called for women and young people to play a meaningful role in decisions about water management and climate resilience.
He said sustainable water governance required the participation, innovation and leadership of those most affected by water-related challenges.
The call highlights the importance of including different groups in decisions that affect access to water, environmental protection and communities’ ability to withstand climate-related shocks.
The biennale in Luanda provides a platform for discussions on water governance, disaster preparedness and resilience across Africa.
Mr Brogya Genfi’s statement did not provide further details about the conference’s programme, the other participants or any specific commitments made at the opening session.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
