The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has highlighted the growing risks associated with global dependence on fossil fuels, with experts warning that rising geopolitical tensions are threatening energy security, economic stability, and food systems worldwide.
The crisis has disrupted global oil and gas supplies, triggering sharp increases in fuel and energy prices. The International Energy Agency has described the situation as one of the greatest energy security threats in modern history, with the resulting inflation affecting households, businesses, and national economies.
The World Food Programme has projected worsening global hunger as food insecurity rises across several regions, including Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. The World Bank Group has also warned that escalating fertilizer and energy costs linked to the crisis are increasing pressure on global food production and household food bills.
Countries heavily reliant on imported fuel, including Ghana, are expected to face heightened economic and food security risks. Ghana’s energy sector remains largely dependent on thermal power generated from gas and oil, which accounts for an estimated 70 percent of electricity production, while hydro and solar contribute smaller shares.
Analysts warn that climate-related challenges such as droughts, rising temperatures, and erratic rainfall are already placing stress on hydroelectric facilities like Akosombo Dam, Kpong Dam, and Bui Dam.
The article argues that continued reliance on fossil fuels leaves countries vulnerable to repeated global shocks while also worsening climate change, which is contributing to floods, droughts, wildfires, and extreme weather events across Africa and other regions.
It points to renewable energy as a long-term solution, noting that solar, wind, electric vehicles, and modern energy storage systems can improve energy independence, lower costs, create jobs, and reduce emissions.
Ghana’s introduction of a National Electric Vehicle Policy in 2023 was highlighted as a significant step toward reducing fossil fuel dependence. The policy aims to increase electric vehicle adoption through incentives and targets 35 percent EV penetration by 2035.
The article also stressed the need for increased climate financing for developing countries, noting that although global investment in clean energy surpassed fossil fuel investments last year, vulnerable economies continue to receive limited support.
It further emphasized the importance of international climate cooperation through global climate conferences such as United Nations Climate Change Conference, commonly known as COP, to accelerate the transition to clean energy and strengthen climate resilience worldwide.
Source: https://ghana.un.org/
