STORY: Ghanaian president urges women, children to be heard in climate change discourse
DATELINE: Aug. 4, 2023
LENGTH: 00:03:42
LOCATION: Accra
CATEGORY: POLITICS/SOCIETY
 
SHOTLIST:
1. various of participants including students and businesswomen
2. SOUNDBITE (English): NANA ADDO DANKWA AKUFO-ADDO, President of Ghana
3. various of farms
4. various of the central business district
 
STORYLINE:
 
Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Wednesday urged African countries to give women and children a hearing in climate change discussions to ensure inclusive and far-reaching decision-making.
 
Akufo-Addo made the call at the maiden Africa Women and Children Conference held in the capital city of Accra under the theme "Amplifying the Voices of Women and Children in Climate Action."
 
SOUNDBITE (English): NANA ADDO DANKWA AKUFO-ADDO, President of Ghana
"The aspiration to achieve the central goals of the Paris Agreement, limiting global average temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius is an ambitious, yet imperative endeavor. However, this noble mission can only be realized if we elevate the voices and empower the most vulnerable amongst us, the women and children of Africa. Their voices, experiences, and active participation are indispensable in shaping effective climate actions and addressing the unique challenges faced by their communities. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted and collaborative approach."
 
The president stressed women's uniqueness in assessing risks differently from men and prioritizing the welfare of their families and communities in resource management decisions, which could help champion eco-friendly behaviors, promote sustainable consumption and protect natural resources.
   
Akufo-Addo called for education and public sensitization to release the potential of women and children in tackling the climate crisis.
 
Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Accra.
(XHTV)