By: Edwin Gogu. Source: Green for Change Ghana.
Green for Change Ghana (GCG) has been honoured with the Outstanding Service in Empowering Communities for Climate Adaptation Award at the 2026 Ghana Development Awards, in recognition of its impactful work in promoting environmental sustainability and strengthening community resilience.
The awards ceremony, held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, and the private sector to celebrate organizations and individuals contributing significantly to national development and economic recovery.
Organizers of the awards said Green for Change Ghana was selected for its consistent, community-driven efforts to help vulnerable populations adapt to the effects of climate change through practical and sustainable solutions.
Green for Change Ghana is a local environmental non-governmental organization that works closely with rural communities across the country, particularly in the northern ecological zone where climate impacts such as drought, land degradation, and erratic rainfall are most severe.
Over the years, the organization has implemented a range of interventions focused on conservation, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, natural resource management, and ecosystem restoration. These initiatives are aimed at improving livelihoods while protecting the environment and enhancing food security.
Through its programmes, GCG supports farmers to plant trees, restore degraded lands, and adopt climate-smart agricultural practices. It also promotes the use of clean energy solutions and provides training for women and young people in sustainable livelihood activities that reduce environmental pressure.
Speaking after receiving the award, the Executive Director of Green for Change Ghana, John Balankoo Sumbo, expressed appreciation to the organizers and dedicated the recognition to the communities the organization serves.
“This recognition is not only for Green for Change Ghana but also for the communities we work with every day. Their commitment to restoring the environment and adopting sustainable practices is what makes our work successful,” he said.
Mr. Sumbo noted that climate change continues to threaten livelihoods in rural Ghana, particularly among communities that depend heavily on agriculture and natural resources.
“Climate change is still affecting many rural households. We need stronger collaboration between government, development partners, and organizations to support communities to adapt and build resilience,” he added.
He further dedicated the award to the organization’s beneficiaries, staff, partners, and donors, whose contributions continue to drive its success.
“We dedicate this award to our beneficiaries who are at the frontline of climate change, as well as to our staff, partners, and donors. Together, we are working to protect ecosystems, improve livelihoods, and build resilient communities,” he stated.
Mr. Sumbo also reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to expanding its impact through nature-based solutions, renewable energy initiatives, and community-led development programmes.
He called on donor agencies, private sector actors, and development partners to collaborate with the organization to scale up its interventions and reach more vulnerable communities across the country.
The recognition is expected to boost Green for Change Ghana’s visibility and attract additional support for its ongoing efforts to promote sustainable development, protect natural resources, and build climate-resilient communities in Ghana.
