Action 2015 momentum builds to end poverty and inequalities

Ghana needs to redouble efforts if the country is to achieve targets set in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

The year 2015 marks the end of set targets of the MDGs, which test a country’s human rights’ credentials and values.

Non-governmental organizations want government to increase the momentum in poverty reduction, fight against climate, inequality and support services.

Abibimman Foundation and the Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP-Ghana) are pushing the “Action 2015” of ensuring generations are able to lead good and dignified lives enriched with opportunity.

Though Ghana has showed its leadership capability in reducing extreme poverty by half ahead of 2015, a lot of people still live in poverty, observed Kenneth Nana Amoateng, Chief Executive Officer of Abibiman Foundation.

“If Government fails to take bold decisions to tackle poverty, climate change and inequality, am afraid the MDGs will not be achieved. Every government policy should have a lasting impact in addressing poverty. No excuse will be enough if Ghana fails to achieve the MDGs targets,” he said.

He believes government has the opportunity to chart a new course of equity, environmental sustainability, social justice and human rights enjoyment and dignity for all.

“There should be a radical demonstration of will power and commitment to fight poverty, inequality and make the MDGs a reality. Climate change drives poverty, vulnerability and inequality that disproportionately affects women, children, vulnerable communities and nations that are the least responsible for the crisis”, said Nana Amoateng.

He has also called for a strict regulation with usage of land as the issue of land for farming has become a major problem for farmers in recent times.

“Land meant for farming must be solely used for that purpose. It is sad that some lands which should be used for farming are now being used estate development,” he emphasised.

Governments must also guarantee food sovereignty by investing in small-scale sustainable agriculture and enact and fully implement laws that protect women, children and people of different sexual orientation from discrimination.

The NGOs are also demanding just governance, transparency and accountability at both the public and private sectors of the State, while acknowledging that the need for civil society live up to these tenets.

Story by Kofi Adu Domfeh