Portia Adu-Mensah: National coordinator for 350 Ghana Reducing Our Carbon

I am Portia Adu-Mensah, the national coordinator of 350 Ghana Reducing our Carbon (350 GROC). Let me take you on my journey as a climate leader and share the progress we have made in Ghana’s fight against climate change.

In 2013, I had the incredible opportunity to be trained by 350.org during the Global Power Shift in Turkiye. This gathering energized us and connected us with climate activists from around the world. Filled with ideas and determination, my friends and I founded 350 GROC.

Our first challenge was opposing the construction of the Ekumfi Aboano power plant, which would have burned massive amounts of coal, endangering thousands of lives. Through protests and engagement with affected communities, we emerged victorious after three years of campaigning—the project was permanently canceled.

But our fight didn’t end there. We knew we had to continue battling against fossil fuels in Ghana. Our group expanded, attracting passionate volunteers from various backgrounds. We understood the need to advocate for sustainable alternatives, not just oppose destructive projects.

In 2021, we launched the “Renewable Energy for Communities” (RE4C) campaign, shifting our focus to empower local communities. We advocated for stronger national policies on renewable energy while supporting communities to implement their own solutions.

Under my leadership, RE4C has achieved significant milestones. In 2022, I was honored with the Most Impactful Climate Change/Biodiversity Conservation Advocate award at the Ghana Environmental and Sanitation Awards.

We have trained 100 women in clean cooking techniques, organized community assemblies to introduce renewable energy alternatives, empowered communities to make informed energy choices, and provided recommendations to improve Ghana’s Renewable Energy Act, among other accomplishments.

Our immediate goal is to hold Ghana’s government accountable to its promise of having at least 10% renewables in the energy mix by 2030. To achieve this, we focus on increasing the adoption of local solar and wind projects and integrating renewable energy into district development policies.

Looking ahead to 2023, we have ambitious plans:

1. Creating national momentum and advocating for a more ambitious Renewable Energy Masterplan.
2. Expanding the “Women in Renewable Energy” project to empower women in additional regions.
3. Securing funding for renewable energy projects in schools, enabling young people to develop innovative climate solutions.
4. Developing a Renewable Energy Training Manual to empower communities with accessible information.

Through my journey with 350 GROC, I have witnessed the power of collective action and grassroots movements. Together, we can drive positive change, protect our planet, and create a sustainable future for all.

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