Honourable Samuel A. Jinapor has urged African governments and global partners to adopt innovative financial strategies for boosting Nature-Based Solutions (NbS). His call came during a high-level discussion at the 2026 Scientific Day of Renaissance for Africa. Jinapor stressed that traditional climate financing alone cannot meet Africa’s climate adaptation needs.
Africa holds significant natural wealth, but it needs more funding to unlock this potential. The discussions included policy makers, researchers, and environmental experts. They aimed to integrate science, biodiversity, and nature-based actions into Africa's development goals. Jinapor's proposals seek to bridge the funding gap for environmental restoration and climate resilience across the continent.
This push for innovative finance aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy to leverage natural resources for sustainable growth. Ghana has already implemented initiatives like Green Ghana Day and its REDD+ programme. These programs demonstrate how nature-based solutions can create jobs and new economic opportunities. The country’s participation in emerging carbon markets further highlights this commitment. Data shows increased focus on sustainable development practices across the region.
“Africa must move beyond relying solely on traditional sources of climate finance,” Jinapor stated. He added, “To unlock the full potential of Nature-Based Solutions, we need to explore innovative and diversified financing mechanisms.” These mechanisms include carbon markets, blended finance, private sector investment, and green bonds. He believes these tools can mobilise the necessary resources for large-scale projects.
Moving forward, the focus will be on transitioning from pilot projects to large-scale initiatives. African governments need to integrate NbS into national development plans. This includes policies on climate, agriculture, and water management. Regulatory frameworks must support investment while protecting communities and ecosystems. This approach ensures that local populations benefit equitably from conservation efforts.
The emphasis on collaboration is also key. Governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector must work together. This collective effort can transform promising ideas into significant programs. These partnerships will protect biodiversity, enhance climate resilience, and create green jobs. They will also improve livelihoods across Africa.
Research and scientific innovation will play a vital role in accelerating NbS implementation. Jinapor noted the strong evidence supporting NbS effectiveness. The current challenge is to expand their application with speed and measurable impact. Research institutions must generate local data to inform policy and strengthen monitoring systems. This ensures solutions are tailored to specific regional needs.
Africa’s natural assets, such as forests and wetlands, should be seen as strategic economic resources. They can support long-term development, not just environmental protection. Governments must create strong policies that embed NbS into national planning. This helps avoid treating them as isolated environmental interventions. The private sector is encouraged to see nature as a long-term investment opportunity. This can yield financial returns and environmental benefits through sustainable practices.
The discussion also featured insights from renowned conservation scientist Emerita Prof. Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu and public health expert Prof. John Gyapong. Their contributions underscored the importance of biodiversity conservation. They also highlighted strengthening African research systems for sustainable development. This collective expertise reinforces the urgent need for a shift in climate finance strategies.