Research from the REACH-STR project reveals significant impacts of climate change on migration and social transformation in Ghana, highlighting gender dynamics and the need for practical solutions. The findings will help inform policymakers in their efforts to develop sustainable and inclusive strategies for community resilience against climate-induced changes.
Recent research funded by the European Union has illuminated the relationship between climate change and migration patterns, emphasizing its impact on social transformation in Ghana. The Resilience Against Climate Change-Social Transformation Research and Policy Advocacy (REACH-STR) project garners support from numerous institutions, including the International Water Management Institute and the Centre for Migration Studies at the University of Ghana, aiming to foster pathways for sustainable development.
Eighteen students, consisting of fourteen Master’s students and four doctoral candidates, contributed to studies examining gender, migration, climate resilience, and policy action in various communities across the Savannah and Upper West Regions. Their findings indicate that households in Northern Ghana experience climate change profoundly, with Northwestern Ghana facing rapid social changes and heightened vulnerabilities affecting adaptation strategies.
The students advocate for immediate action, promoting climate-smart agriculture, enhanced institutional capacities, and gender-inclusive climate policies. Migration emerged as a principal strategy for adaptation, with both genders utilizing it to combat climate-related challenges, yet disparities in migration trends were noted. Raqeebah Hisham, a student whose research centered on gender dynamics in migration, highlighted that while men typically migrate longer distances, the responsibilities of women change dramatically in their absence, financially supporting households.
Moreover, Hisham pointed out a lack of awareness among locals regarding existing migration policies intended for both genders, urging stakeholders to raise awareness of these policies, especially concerning gender-sensitive issues. This initiative contributes significantly to the formation of climate-resilient communities and equips young professionals with the necessary skills to tackle climate change and migration-related issues.
The graduation ceremony, themed “Building Capacity of the Next Generation for Climate Resilient Development,” celebrated the accomplishments of the 18 scholars. Their research is pivotal in drawing connections between climate vulnerabilities and social transformations in Northwestern Ghana. Mr. Massimo Mina, Head of Cooperation at the EU in Ghana, reiterated the EU’s dedication to fostering research-driven initiatives that enable young professionals in contributing to sustainable development.
The findings from this research underscore the pressing effects of climate change on migration and social structures in Northwestern Ghana. The REACH-STR project has successfully equipped a new generation of researchers with the tools to influence policy through an understanding of climate resilience and social transformation. This initiative signifies critical steps toward developing practical solutions and emphasizes the importance of inclusive policies that address the unique experiences of both men and women in migration.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
