©AfreePress-(Lomé, September 4, 2023)-“Bringing together all stakeholders for a synergy of actions in favor of the environment and the fight against climate change in Togo.” This is the ambition of Compassion International Togo, which organizes since Monday, September 4, 2023 on the site of the Togolese Center for Exhibitions and Fairs (CETEF), a fair and a conference focused on environmental stewardship and creation care.
The work of this meeting was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Environment and Forest Resources, Katari Foli-Bazi, in the presence of the Vice-President of Compassion International Africa, Palamanga OUALI, as well as representatives of state agencies and civil society organizations, committed to the fight against climate change.
For three days, young people from Compassion International Togo, as well as partner churches, civil society actors, heads of government agencies from the five regions of the country will exchange ideas and propose innovative initiatives that can support the government’s efforts in the fight against climate change.
“This fair and this conference allow us to mobilize about thirty NGOs and associations so that we can reflect together on the management of the environment and the protection of creation. We wanted to create this framework for consultation between the different actors because we know that climate change has a direct impact on the lives of the children, youth and families we serve in the program. Last year and this year, we spent more than a billion to support families on food security issues, and we believe it is important to engage all actors to develop a roadmap that will allow us to align with the government’s perspectives,” said Olivier Koffi AHONON, National Director of Compassion International Togo.
Many civil, military and political authorities were present
For this humanitarian NGO, only concerted action will enable humanity to cope with the devastating effects of climate change such as chronic drought, floods and seasonal variations.
“The damage suffered by our environment does not exclude anyone, and it is urgent that everyone, at their level, get involved in the management of the environment and the protection of creation,” said the Vice-President of Compassion International Africa, while stressing the interest of his organization to accompany the efforts of governments in this fight for the protection of nature.
The ministry of environment, Foli Bazi visiting the exhibitions after the opening ceremony
The Minister of Environment and Forest Resources, for his part, praised Compassion International for its commitment to the well-being of children and its consideration of climate change issues.
“If the government wanted to be represented at this meeting, it is simply because the country’s authorities are convinced that the fight against climate change can only be won when all social strata are mobilized, especially civil society,” he acknowledged.
A panel animated by experts from the ministry of environment
Several activities are on the agenda. These are conferences-debates, panels and exhibitions.
The public, visiting the exhibitions
Established in Togo since 2008, Compassion International Togo now takes care of more than 78,000 children and young people throughout the country.
Raphael A.
