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The Mayor of Kumasi Hon. Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, has officially launched Round 2 of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund in collaboration with the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA). The launch took place on Monday, April 22, 2025, coinciding with World Earth Day, a symbolic occasion that underscores the global urgency for climate action.
The Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund is a global initiative taking root in 90 cities across five continents. The program seeks to empower young people aged 15 to 24 to co-create and lead climate solutions that address environmental challenges within their communities.
In his address, Mayor Ofori-Agyeman Boadi noted that Kumasi’s inclusion in this global program is a significant milestone in the city’s journey towards sustainability and environmental stewardship.
He revealed that the city successfully completed Round 1 of the program, during which 14 youth-led groups received funding for climate-focused initiatives. Those projects collectively engaged over 2,400 young people across the metropolis.
“Building on the success of Round 1, Round 2 offers us a greater opportunity to deepen collaboration, support more impactful projects, and inspire the next generation of climate champions,” the Mayor stated.
According to the Mayor, the KMA has received a fresh grant of US$100,000 from Bloomberg Philanthropies to support youth-led environmental projects for Round 2. A total of 54 proposals were submitted by various youth groups across Kumasi. After a thorough evaluation process, 26 proposals have been selected to receive microgrants ranging from US$1,000 to US$5,000 each.
The selected projects include innovative ideas such as plastic upcycling, sustainable briquette production, waste segregation and recycling, composting, climate education campaigns, and community-based green initiatives.
Hon. Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi commended all the applicants for their enthusiasm and commitment to creating a cleaner and greener Kumasi. He congratulated the 26 successful groups and charged them to implement their projects with diligence and passion.
“Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the change-makers of today. I urge all beneficiaries to work hard, deliver measurable results, and inspire their peers,” he emphasized.
The Mayor further called on citizens of Kumasi to unite in the fight against climate change, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in preserving the planet for future generations.
The launch event was also an opportunity for some of the successful applicants to share their excitement and appreciation.
“We are grateful to Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly for this opportunity,” one of the beneficiaries said. “This funding will help us implement our idea of converting agricultural waste into eco-friendly briquettes for local use.”
Another beneficiary added, “The grant will allow us to engage our peers in plastic collection and upcycling, turning waste into useful products. We are ready to make an impact.”
The Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund represents a growing commitment by city leaders and international partners to empower local youth and grassroots organizations in the global fight against climate change.
As the world marked Earth Day, the Kumasi launch served as a reminder that climate action must be inclusive, innovative, and youth-led.
By Simon OPOKU Afriyie
