People & Lifestyle

Opinion: Coronavirus and climate disasters – Small vulnerable countries face dual threats

Published

4 years ago

April 18, 2020

Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary-General

The widespread destruction wreaked by Tropical Cyclone Harold in several Pacific countries just days ago has been nothing short of heart-breaking. At least 32 people have died, while more than 45,000 men, women and children in Vanuatu’s hardest-hit province, Sanma, are now homeless. In Tonga, hundreds of businesses and homes were gutted, while Fiji has recorded more than US$20 million worth of damage to crops, raising fears around food security.

Sadly, such super storms are occurring with increasing and distressing frequency in the region. Powerful Category 5 cyclones – the strongest on the South Pacific scale – have descended almost every year since 2014, costing an estimated US$2 billion in total damages. Building long-term resilience on multiple fronts has become even more pressing, with the COVID-19 pandemic now contributing to a perilous combination of threats in the region.

Not only has the cyclone exacerbated the risk of exposure to the disease, but measures to protect against COVID-19 are, in turn, hampering cyclone recovery. In Vanuatu for instance, urgent relief supplies from overseas must sit untouched for three days at the airport to prevent possible contamination. Meanwhile the storm has wrecked health centres across the country and damaged the water supply, hindering basic actions like washing hands. Fortunately, Vanuatu remains COVID-free, but with less than two doctors for every 10,000 people and only two working ventilators in the whole country, there is little room for error.

In Fiji, where 17 cases of COVID have been reported, strict social distancing rules meant evacuation centres could only take a limited number of people during the storm. Curbs on gatherings and movement have kept volunteers from mobilising to help those in need. There are only around eight doctors for every 10,000 Fijians (compared to 30 in neighbouring New Zealand), and rural areas remain vulnerable.

Scientists have long warned that the ferocity and frequency of extreme weather events such as cyclones can be fuelled by warmer oceans, as a result of climate change. Small island developing states are known to be especially vulnerable to climate-related disasters, which can cripple economies and thwart their ability to cope with other crises such as pandemics. It is therefore extremely worrying that so many small states still find it difficult to secure funding to help reduce the risk of disasters and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Research shows that disaster risk reduction remains a low priority in terms of financing. Over the 20 years from 1991 to 2010, just 0.4 per cent of international aid (or 40 cents for every US$100) was spent on pre-disaster risk management. This despite evidence suggesting it is more cost-effective to tackle risks before a disaster strikes, than reacting afterwards. Information on funding in this area is fragmented and complex, making it even harder for small and vulnerable states to tap into the limited money.

Similarly, for climate finance, smaller countries that lack manpower and expertise can spend many months or even years working through donors’ onerous conditions and lengthy processes, delaying climate action and putting communities further at risk. For instance, Tonga is still awaiting the outcome of a proposal submitted to international agencies in 2017 to build 16 kilometres of vital coastline protection. Since then, the country has endured not one, but two super storms (Gita in 2018 and Harold in 2020), while hoping to receive funds for the project this year, according to Commonwealth advisers on the ground.

Simple, easy-to-navigate ways to access money to cope with climate change and manage disaster risk are therefore crucial. Less red tape and better coordination amongst funders, leading to common templates for proposals, harmonised sets of conditions and a simplified approval system would no doubt make life easier for those vulnerable countries that need financing the most.

In support, the Commonwealth’s Climate Finance Access Hub helps governments develop successful applications for international climate finance, backed by robust satellite data through the innovative Commonsensing project. Our forthcoming Disaster Risk Finance Portal will also provide valuable information on disaster risk funds through a single easy-to-use web-based platform.

The reality however, is that multiple disasters is a risk for all countries, and the global community must respond by taking a coordinated, joined up and long-term approach to building resilience.

Related Topics:Coronavirus and climate disasters

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People & Lifestyle

Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s Reign

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Celebrating 25 Years: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's Reign

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign as the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II: Celebrating 25 Years of Local and Global Impact.
Showing on @GTV_Ghana and streaming on all our social media platforms on Sunday, April 28, at 8:30PM.#Asanteman #OurCultureOurHeritage pic.twitter.com/g3u0Ql5q6i
— GTV Ghana (@GTV_Ghana) April 26, 2024

The celebrations, which began with spectacular fireworks witnessed by Otumfuo himself, will culminate in the Silver Jubilee anniversary on Akwasidaekese on June 12 at Dwabrem, Manhyia Palace.

This milestone is a testament to Otumfuo’s impactful leadership, dedication to the Asante people, and contributions to education and research as the Chancellor of KNUST.

❤️ @AkwaboahMusic meets The King of Ashanti Kingdom Otumfoc Osei Tutu II. pic.twitter.com/wdvlulV7Ez
— FELICIA OSEI (@Osei_Feliciaa) April 26, 2024

The event is being celebrated across Ghana, with well-wishes and congratulations pouring in from various quarters, highlighting the significance of this occasion for Asanteman and Ghana as a whole.

People & Lifestyle

Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.

Wow, Mr Beast is in Ghana! Look at how boys are gathering to take pictures with him. pic.twitter.com/46gawXYWnJ
— Big Kay🇬🇭 (@OfficialBigkay) April 26, 2024

His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.

MrBeast is in Ghana and no one is talking about it? Make I step out more times I go get new phone or car saf pic.twitter.com/AUP9CSoDoV
— Kofi Ntim (@NtimBarima) April 26, 2024
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Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.

The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.

People & Lifestyle

Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.

The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.

While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.

This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.

“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.

If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.

Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.

In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.

Anas took $100,000 to stop documentary release – Kwesi Nyantakyi
‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.

Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).

The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.

However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.

He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.

People & Lifestyle

Rebecca Osam: A Champion for Women’s Empowerment in Africa

Published

3 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

In a heartfelt social media post, Rebecca Osam, Managing Director of Reflo Company Limited, Reflo’s TV, and Femme Fatale Productions Limited, has pledged her full commitment to empowering young women.

Rebecca expressed her desire to move beyond mere inspiration and instead build a deeper connection with young women, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.

Her passion for women’s empowerment stems from her experiences growing up in Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the oppression and lack of opportunities faced by women. This drove her to co-found The Florence Mensah Foundation with her mother, aiming to empower African women and girls, and encourage them to recognise their worth, strength, and potential.

Through her foundation and personal endeavors, Rebecca seeks to provide a supportive platform for young women to thrive. She aims to be a relatable figure, offering mentorship and encouragement to help them overcome challenges and achieve success on their own terms.

Rebecca’s dedication to empowering young women proves her leadership and commitment to creating positive change in her community. Her efforts serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the impact one person can have in driving gender equality and women’s empowerment.

As Rebecca continues her work, her message resonates with young women across Africa: “Anything is possible, and I am here to support and cheer you on every step of the way.”

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People & Lifestyle

Caradise Ghana Car Rental Facilitates Transportation for Global Christian Forum held in Accra

Published

4 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Caradise Ghana Car Rental has once again successfully facilitated the transportation of over 240 participants from 60 countries across the globe for the recently ended Global Christian Forum in Accra, Ghana.

Numerous buses hauled the various participants from the Airport to their designated hotels from the 12th to 15th of April, 2024. Participants were then transported from their hotels to the conference grounds daily for the gathering of devoted Christians from the 16th to the 19th of April, 2024.

The forum began with a vibrant, joyful worship service held at Accra Ridge Church. The Rev. Dr. Casely Essamuah welcomed participants to Ghana and to the Fourth Global Gathering, and participants spent the day sharing their faith stories with one another across the litany of differences represented.

The forum was climaxed with a dinner and 25th anniversary celebration at the Action Chapel Internation Church hosted by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams.

After the forum, the participants took the opportunity to visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum where they learnt about the great Pan-Africanist, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Ghana’s journey to inpendence.

The participants also spent a day in Cape Coast where they learnt about the millions of enslaved, dehumanised African men, women, and children at the Cape Coast Castle. Witnessing first hand how Africans were forcibly taken captive to the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe as objects of lucrative trade.

People & Lifestyle

DJ Khaled Announces Second Annual We The Best Foundation Golf Classic On June 12 & 13 in Miami Beach !

Published

5 hours ago

April 26, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

GRAMMY® Award-winning, global megastar DJ Khaled proudly announces the return of his annual WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC for the second year in a row.

For 2024, the mega-popular charity event expands to two days on Wednesday June 12 and Thursday June 13 in Miami, FL. Given the demand by countless superstar artists, A-list athletes, and entertainers to participate, he needed to stretch the proceedings over two days!

Once again, the event will be sponsored by Jordan Brand, and all proceeds support the We The Best Foundationand its numerous efforts to bolster education. Stay tuned for the multitude of exciting confirmed guests, and more.

Khaled created a cultural groundswell and personally appeared on ESPN’s SPORTSCENTER to break the news of the second installment of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC today. Watch HERE.

Regarding the return of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC, he commented, “Last year, the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC brought out so many friends and family to make a difference, play some great golf, and have an incredible day for a great cause. This year, we’re going even bigger, and we thank everyone for their continued support. TEE UP AND BLESS UP!”

Last year, the inaugural WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC hosted Serena Williams, pro golfers Michael Block and Bubba Watson, Odell Beckham, JR., Shannon Sharpe, Victor Cruz, Jalen Rose, Terrell Owens, Marcus Jordan, Jeezy, Quavo, The-Dream, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Fat Joe, Cedric The Entertainer, Joey Fatone, and more. The foundation raised over $500,000 which benefited the enrichment of children and youth through educational programming, scholarships, and extracurricular activities.

More guests and partners for 2024 will be unveiled soon.