FON pilots climate-smart solutions in Western Region

The civil society organization Friends of Nation (FON) has implemented a pilot initiative in three districts of Ghana's Western Region, introducing green climate solutions aimed at bolstering climate resilience, energy transition, and environmental justice among local governments and communities. The project focused on Ellembelle, Jomoro, and Nzema East districts.

Key interventions included the installation of durable polycarbonate roofing sheets at Essiama Basic School, the construction of wire mesh fencing for a fish pond in Ellembelle, and the creation of a climate education resource guide in Shama. FON recently organized a stakeholder dialogue in Takoradi to present the outcomes of these projects and gather expert feedback on ensuring their long-term sustainability.

Solomon Kusi Ampofo, FON's Programmes Coordinator, highlighted the transformative impact of the new roofing at Essiama Basic School, completed in December 2025. He explained that the polycarbonate sheets provide a well-lit, watertight, and climate-appropriate learning environment, addressing issues of leaking classrooms common with older aluminum roofing. This upgrade not only improves concentration for students but also reduces electricity costs associated with poor lighting. Ampofo noted that while the initial use of polycarbonate alone caused overheating, a combination with standard roofing sheets is now recommended for optimal thermal regulation.

“

The new roofing provided a well-lit, water-tight and climate-smart learning environment.

Ampofo described the roofing intervention as "climate-smart," aligning with Ghana's green infrastructure goals by reducing energy consumption. The Ellembelle, Jomoro, and Nzema East districts have formally expressed interest in adopting this model. Similarly, the wire mesh fencing for fish ponds is presented as a low-cost livelihood support system, especially beneficial for women fish farmers. This fencing has proven effective in preventing fish losses due to flooding, a common consequence of climate change impacting these communities, with pilot beneficiaries reporting zero losses.

William Augustine-Derkyi, FON's Project Officer, added that the initiative promotes peer learning and knowledge sharing among communities facing similar environmental challenges. The projects aim to empower local populations with practical, sustainable solutions to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.

“

The introduction of affordable wire mesh fencing had prevented fish losses, with beneficiaries recording zero losses during the pilot phase.