Severe Climate Change in Northwest Ghana Spurs Migration: REACH-STR Findings
Research from the REACH-STR project shows that Northwest Ghana is facing severe climate change, resulting in increased migration to southern regions. Master’s and PhD students conducted studies highlighting the necessity for inclusive climate policies, which were presented at their graduation ceremony. The initiative, funded by the EU, aims to address social transformations and promote sustainable development.
Recent research conducted under the Resilience Against Climate Change-Social Transformation Research and Policy Advocacy (REACH-STR) project reveals that Northwest Ghana is experiencing severe climate changes compared to other regions. This climatic strain is prompting significant migration towards southern areas. The studies, carried out by 14 Master’s and four PhD students, were presented at a graduation ceremony for 18 scholarship recipients funded by the European Union and the International Water Management Institute (IWMI).
The research targeted selected communities in the Upper West and Savannah Regions, striving to address knowledge gaps concerning policy and development pertaining to climate change, migration, and gender. Dr. Birhanu Zemadim Birhanu, Deputy Country Representative and Senior Researcher at IWMI, pointed out the lack of resources to document social transformations in the north, while emphasizing that the findings yield vital evidence for developing inclusive climate interventions.
Dr. Zemadim stated, “We will explore how these findings can influence policies and development strategies, particularly in gender, migration, and climate resilience. This is just the beginning of a sustained effort to build a climate-resilient future.” He acknowledged the significance of the graduation, which highlighted the intellectual growth of the students involved in the project.
Massimo Mina, Head of EU Cooperation, encouraged the government to incorporate the research findings into future climate policies. 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 the graduation event, the scholars engaged in a discussion with EU Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Irchad Razaaly, who praised their contributions towards climate resilience. Beneficiaries from various institutions expressed how the REACH-STR project profoundly impacted their lives, equipping them with essential knowledge to address climate change effects observed in the region.
The REACH-STR project, which commenced in February 2019 and will conclude this year, receives funding of €2.3 million from the European Union and is supported by the CSIR-Science and Technology Policy Research Institute. Its aim is to generate knowledge on social transformation relevant to sustainable development and adaptation to climate challenges.
In conclusion, the findings from the REACH-STR project indicate a significant climate crisis in Northwest Ghana, leading to increased migration. The research underscores the need for inclusive climate policies that consider the social transformations and vulnerabilities faced by communities. The project has significantly empowered young scholars, fostering their ability to address critical issues relating to climate change and social resilience in their regions.
Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com
