President Akufo-Addo has called on global leaders to move beyond dialogue and take tangible steps toward combating climate change.

He emphasised the pressing responsibility to create a sustainable environment for future generations, urging the international community to prioritise the health of the planet over short-term economic gains.

While delivering an address at the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan the President said “As a father and a grandfather, I question what world we will leave behind.

“Our children’s future hinges on our decisions that COP29 here in Azerbaijan mark a pivotal shift from dialogue to decisive action.”

He continued, “Let us act boldly, showing future generations that we fought for them. Ghana stands united with the world for a green resilient tomorrow.”

While the President’s words struck a chord at the summit, critics back home questioned his government’s commitment to environmental protection, pointing to the rampant illegal mining—commonly known as galamsey—ravaging Ghana’s rivers, farmlands, and forests.

The government has repeatedly pledged to clamp down on the illicit practice, but the impact has been limited.

Many Ghanaians are frustrated by what they see as a lack of real action, with galamsey continuing to devastate the environment.

The challenge is exacerbated by allegations that some high-ranking members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) are involved in the illegal mining business.

These claims have raised suspicions that political interests within the NPP may be undermining efforts to eliminate galamsey.

Environmental groups and activists have criticised the government’s efforts, saying that the rhetoric is not matched by effective action on the ground.

They argue that the continued prevalence of galamsey has stained Ghana’s commitment to environmental stewardship and threatens the very future that President Akufo-Addo spoke of safeguarding at COP29.