Abura State Celebrates Professor Klutse’s EPA Appointment, Seeks Support for Kakum National Park
In a grand ceremony held on Friday, January 24, 2025 at Abakrampa, Omanhene’s palace, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse was inaugurated as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The event was attended by esteemed guests, including Nananom, community members, party executives, media, and other dignitaries.
The ceremony was a momentous occasion, marking a significant milestone in Professor Klutse’s illustrious career. As a renowned climatologist and academic, she has an impressive track record of achievements, including being a Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group I.
Nana Yamfo Kwegyir XI, Dontsenhen of Abura State, delivered a speech on behalf of His Royal Majesty, Emintsinminim Otu XI, Abura Omanhen and President of Abura Traditional Council. The speech highlighted Professor Klutse’s achievements and dedication to serving the nation, citing her appointment as a testament to her hard work, expertise, and commitment to environmental protection.
“We are grateful for Professor Nana Ama Klutse’s achievements and dedication to serving our nation,” Nana Yamfo Kwegyir XI said. “Her appointment is a testament to her hard work, expertise, and commitment to environmental protection. We are proud to call her a daughter of Abura State, and we celebrate her accomplishments as a reflection of our state’s values and traditions.”
The Abura State Traditional Council also took the opportunity to request Professor Klutse’s support in several areas, including environmental protection and preservation, community development projects, capacity building and training, support for local industries, and advocacy and policy support.
Specifically, the council requested that Professor Klutse investigate the matter of the Kakum National Park and ensure that Abura State receives the recognition and compensation it deserves as the largest holder of the forest reserve. They also appealed to her to assist in reclaiming the rightful ownership of the Abura Forest Reserve, currently under the control of the Assin Attendanso Traditional Council.
Furthermore, the council invited Professor Klutse to collaborate with the EPA to promote sustainable environmental practices and protect the natural environment through a one million tree planting exercise. They also sought her support in building collaborations between the EPA and Abura State to develop sustainable projects, such as waste management and renewable energy.
In addition, the council requested that Professor Klutse provide guidance on environmentally friendly practices and technologies for local industries, as well as organize programs for community members, traditional leaders, and local authorities on environmental management, conservation, and sustainability.
Finally, the council appealed to Professor Klutse to advocate for policies and programs that benefit Abura State, such as environmental protection laws and climate change mitigation strategies.
Professor Klutse, in her acceptance speech, thanked the Abura State Traditional Council for their support and encouragement. She pledged to work tirelessly to promote sustainable development and environmental protection in Abura State and beyond.
The inauguration ceremony was a significant moment in Professor Klutse’s career, marking a new chapter in her journey to promote environmental protection and sustainable development. As the new CEO of the EPA, she is expected to drive massive development in Abura State and promote sustainable development and environmental protection.
