A ranking member of the Sierra Leone Parliamentary Delegation to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, Hon. Mabinty F. A. Funna, has shared her experiences at the recent Parliamentary Seminar and Extra Ordinary Session held in Accra, Ghana. The seminar, which focused on climate change, environmental degradation, population displacement, and rising insecurity in the ECOWAS region, took place from September 21st to 23rd, 2026. Hon. Funna described the event as a platform where they shared meaningful experiences.
The seminar featured parliamentarians, government representatives, UN bodies, civil society activists, and development partners who addressed the region's most urgent shared challenges. Hon. Funna noted that Africa contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions yet is the most exposed and least equipped to adapt to climate change. West Africa faces worsening droughts, floods, coastal erosion, food insecurity, and resource-driven conflict, with cities like Accra, Lagos, and Dakar already feeling the sharp impact.
The deliberations focused on the critical links between climate change and environmental harm, displacement of communities, rising insecurity, and poverty. The need for advancing the Regional Climate Strategy (2022–2030) and Nationally Determined Contributions was also discussed. Additionally, the launch of a regional carbon market to unlock an estimated USD 294 billion in climate financing was proposed. Hon. Funna emphasized that the goal is to build resilience, prevent conflict, and protect the most vulnerable through coordinated action.
Hon. Funna also reflected on the Extra Ordinary Session, which she described as "governance in action." The session included the adoption of the Seminar's Outcome Report and Resolution, turning dialogue into actionable recommendations. Committee reports on renewable energy, migration, MSME growth, and regional value chains were reviewed, and the 2027 Work Plan and budget framework were approved. Strengthened parliamentary oversight was also discussed to ensure that regional commitments are delivered.
In her conclusion, Hon. Funna emphasized key outcomes, citing that climate action is not just environmental but also a security, economic, and humanitarian imperative. National parliaments have a central role in turning global agreements into local laws and investments. She stressed that protecting people and natural wealth is crucial, and regional unity makes them stronger. Shared solutions can bring lasting peace and prosperity.
Hon. Funna expressed her commitment to bringing these insights home and advocating for stronger climate resilience, fairer resource management, and policies that leave no one behind. She believes that together, they can build a safer, greener, and more prosperous West Africa. The events were not just meetings but a promise to their communities.
The Parliamentary Seminar and Extra Ordinary Session were attended by various stakeholders, including parliamentarians, government representatives, and civil society activists. The events provided a platform for sharing experiences and addressing the region's most urgent challenges. Hon. Funna's reflections highlight the importance of coordinated action to address climate change and its impacts.
Key points
- Hon. Mabinty Funna emphasizes the need for coordinated action to build resilience and prevent conflict in the face of climate change.
- The ECOWAS Parliamentary Seminar and Extra Ordinary Session focused on climate change, environmental degradation, and rising insecurity in the region.
- Africa contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions but is the most exposed and least equipped to adapt to climate change.
