Nearly 80% of respondents in joint research conducted by the University for Development Studies and the University of Southampton identified water shortages as the most pressing environmental stressor in Northern Ghana, with extreme heat waves, flooding, and extreme cold also ranking high on the list.
The study, which assessed community perceptions of climate change across four districts, revealed that 79% of respondents cited water shortages as a major concern, followed by extreme heat waves (70.7%), flooding (61.6%), and extreme cold (58.2%). According to the findings, 71% of participants believe climate impacts will become more severe in the future.
Researchers warn that Northern Ghana is increasingly becoming a climate vulnerability hotspot in West Africa due to rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and the increasing frequency of droughts and floods. Communities reported significant effects on water availability, health, and nutrition.
Co-Principal Investigator and Lecturer at UDS, Prof. Victor Mogre, said respondents clearly understand the growing threat of climate change.
“Our respondents are fully aware of climate change and are concerned about its impact. About 70% believe it has a serious effect on their health. They are aware of the causes of climate change, yet over 60% still believe climate change is an act of God,” he noted.
Prof. Mogre added that the findings provide direction for community-based climate interventions.
“From what they are saying, we can reduce the impact of climate change by engaging faith-based leaders to help sensitize communities.”
A dietician and lecturer at UDS, Patience Kanyiriga, highlighted that pregnant women are among the most affected groups, noting that climate-induced food insecurity and extreme temperatures pose risks to maternal and child health.
The study underscores the urgency for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies tailored to the region’s vulnerabilities.
Source: Abdul-Wahab Yakubu/zaaradio.com
