The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has called on stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and innovation in advancing the country’s green and circular economy agenda.
Speaking at the opening of the National Dialogue on Green Jobs, Fair and Exhibition in Accra, the Minister urged participants to turn discussions into concrete actions that align climate ambitions with job creation and enterprise growth.
The event was held under the theme: “Promoting Green Jobs and Circular Economy Opportunities for Sustainable Development.”
Dr. Pelpuo described the dialogue as a key milestone in Ghana’s efforts to build a resilient economy that protects the environment while creating decent employment opportunities.
“May our discussions today inspire stronger partnerships, innovative ideas, and practical solutions that contribute to Ghana’s sustainable development goals and climate commitments,” he said.
He added that the fair and exhibition were designed to move beyond policy debates and showcase the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Ghanaians who are driving the nation’s green transformation.
“Whether in renewable energy, waste recycling, sustainable construction, agroecology, or eco-friendly manufacturing, our people are proving that green jobs are not just ideas for the future – they are already a reality,” the Minister noted.
Representing the Ga Mantse, Nii Dorgu Dawu I emphasized the traditional role of chiefs in protecting the environment, describing it as a sacred trust for future generations.
“Our traditions have long taught us to reuse, share, and waste little. As Ghana transitions to a sustainable economy, traditional authorities must take the lead in community education, youth mobilization, and enterprise development,” he stated.
He also encouraged young people to embrace new opportunities in the green economy, reminding them that “the future of wealth is green.”
The Director of Policy, Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring and Evaluation at the Ministry, Mrs. Gloria Borteley Noi, said the dialogue was created to foster knowledge sharing, networking, and innovation in support of Ghana’s climate and development goals.
She explained that the platform aimed to showcase local innovations and encourage collaboration among government, industry, and communities.
“It is important that the voices of workers, employers, and communities are included in shaping policies that define our collective future,” she said.
The event also featured an exhibition of locally produced green technologies and eco-friendly products, underscoring Ghana’s growing leadership in promoting sustainable development and circular economy practices across the continent.