Nana Akua Dokyiwaa Karikari, a young member of the Planeteer Alliance, has called on young people to take an active role in protecting the environment. She hosted Ghana’s maiden EARTH Summit in Accra on September 26, 2026, at Mensah Sarbah Hall, University of Ghana. The event brought together young people and community members for environmental education and practical activities. The Summit aimed to encourage greater participation in environmental protection.
The Summit, organised by the Planeteer Alliance and YFM Ghana, featured environmental education, practical activities, and interactive sessions. Nana Akua welcomed participants and guests, highlighting the importance of protecting the Earth. She encouraged participants to recognise that environmental action can begin with simple steps in their everyday lives. The event built on Nana Akua’s involvement in environmental advocacy, including Ghana’s maiden Wind Summit in 2025.
The EARTH Summit focused on tree growing, waste management, and opportunities for young people to become involved in environmental initiatives. Toluwalase Abiona, West African Regional Coordinator of the Planeteer Alliance, introduced participants to the Alliance and its work. She outlined opportunities and benefits for young people who join the network. Participants learned about the Alliance and how to become Planeteers.
Participants took part in a session on growing trees led by Mr. Asare Kuffour, Head of Science at Mary Mother of Good Counsel School. The session was followed by a practical tree-planting exercise, giving participants hands-on experience. Each participant received a Veitchia palm seedling to take home and plant, providing a practical way for environmental lessons to continue beyond the event.
The programme also addressed waste management, with Heneba Kwadwo Safo, leader of the BuzStopBoys, leading a hands-on session on source separation. Participants learned how to separate waste and took part in games to make the concept easier to understand and apply. The session aimed to equip participants with practical skills for effective waste management.
For Nana Akua, hosting the Summit was another platform to engage young people on environmental responsibility. She demonstrated that young people can contribute to protecting the planet regardless of their age. The Summit provided a valuable opportunity for young Ghanaians to learn about environmental issues and take action.
The 2026 EARTH Summit was a significant event in Ghana’s environmental calendar, showcasing the country’s commitment to environmental protection. The Summit’s focus on empowering young people to take action on environmental issues was particularly noteworthy. Key outcomes included increased awareness and participation in environmental initiatives.
Key points
- Nana Akua Dokyiwaa Karikari hosted Ghana’s maiden EARTH Summit, calling on young people to take an active role in environmental protection.
- The Summit featured practical activities, including tree planting and waste management sessions.
- The event aimed to encourage greater participation in environmental protection among young people in Ghana.
