Severe Climate Change in Northwest Ghana: Research Highlights…

Research indicates that Northwest Ghana is experiencing severe climate changes, leading to increased migration southward. Findings presented at a graduation ceremony emphasize the need for government action in climate policy development. The REACH-STR project, supported by the European Union and IWMI, aims to enhance understanding of climate change’s impacts, particularly on migration and gender in vulnerable communities.

Recent research from beneficiaries of the Resilience Against Climate Change-Social Transformation Research and Policy Advocacy (REACH-STR) project reveals that Northwest Ghana faces significant climate changes compared to other regions in the country. This situation has led to a substantial migration toward the southern areas as residents seek to escape the adverse effects of climate change.

The findings were shared during a graduation ceremony for 18 scholarship recipients under the REACH-STR project, which is supported by the European Union and the International Water Management Institute (IWMI). Conducted by 14 Master’s and four PhD students, the research focused on communities in the Upper West and Savannah Regions, aiming to address gaps in knowledge regarding climate change, migration, and gender impacts.

Dr. Birhanu Zemadim Birhanu, the Deputy Country Representative at IWMI, highlighted the absence of resources to effectively document social changes in the north. He emphasized the importance of these findings for inclusive climate intervention planning and expressed hope that discussions would lead to policy adaptations. “This is just the beginning of a sustained effort to build a climate-resilient future,” he noted.

Describing the graduation as a rewarding milestone, Dr. Zemadim stated that the REACH-STR project equips social scientists to tackle issues related to climate change, migration, and gender in vulnerable communities. The event was themed “Building Capacity of the Next Generation for Climate-Resilient Development,” emphasizing the project’s commitment to fostering sustainable development in Northwestern Ghana.

Massimo Mina, the Head of EU Cooperation, encouraged the government to incorporate these findings into climate policy development. He remarked, “The studies undertaken by these graduates provide valuable insights that can inform policies and development efforts, ensuring that climate strategies take into account the multiple ways climate vulnerabilities affect communities and livelihoods.”

Prior to graduation, scholars met with EU Ambassador Mr. Irchad Razaaly, who commended their contributions toward enhancing climate resilience. Beneficiaries from the Center for Migration Studies and the SD Dombo University shared their transformative experiences from the project, which equipped them with essential knowledge to address climate change issues in the north.

The REACH-STR project is a six-year initiative funded by the European Union with €2.3 million, set to conclude this year. Implemented in the Upper West and Savannah Regions, its goal is to generate insights on social transformation’s role in sustainable rural development, climate adaptation, and migration.

In summary, the REACH-STR project has provided critical insights into the impacts of climate change in Northwest Ghana, particularly its influences on migration patterns. The studies conducted by scholars emphasize the necessity for the government to integrate these findings into climate policy, ensuring a more informed approach to addressing the vulnerabilities faced by affected communities. The project marks a significant step towards enhancing climate resilience and supporting sustainable development initiatives in the region.

Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com