Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, the Minister-Designate for Environment, Science, and Technology, has underscored the need for a strategic diplomatic approach to ensure Ghana continues to benefit from international climate funding.

Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee during his vetting on Thursday, Murtala emphasized the importance of collaboration with donor nations, particularly amid growing uncertainties surrounding global climate agreements

The nominee expressed deep concern over the United States' previous withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement under President Donald Trump, describing it as a significant setback for global climate efforts.

Given the U.S.’s role as a major financier of climate initiatives, he warned that such a move could have long-term repercussions.

“It is worrying that the U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement, as they are the biggest funders of global climate action.

If other nations follow suit, it could weaken the entire agreement. We must engage diplomatically to ensure Ghana continues to receive much-needed climate funding,” he stated.

Murtala cautioned that if more countries disengage from the Paris Agreement, it could jeopardize Ghana’s access to crucial funding for climate adaptation and environmental sustainability projects.

He stressed the need for Ghana to remain committed to its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)—the country’s climate commitments under the agreement—to maintain international support.

“Global emissions will not stop overnight, and we must continue to honour our climate commitments.

Failing to do so could lead to Ghana losing out on essential donor funding,” he warned.

Adopted in 2015, the Paris Climate Agreement aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global temperature rise to below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The treaty provides financial and technical assistance to developing nations like Ghana, supporting sustainable environmental initiatives and climate resilience efforts.

With uncertainties surrounding international climate commitments, Murtala insists that proactive diplomacy will be key to ensuring Ghana secures its share of global climate financing while advancing its environmental sustainability agenda