The REACH-STR project, funded by the EU, reveals critical insights into the impacts of climate change on migration and social transformation in Ghana. Conducted by 18 students, the research highlights the need for practical solutions like climate-smart agriculture and gender-sensitive policies. Migration serves as an adaptation strategy with notable gender distinctions. The project emphasizes community resilience and the importance of accessible policy information for locals.
Scholars involved in the European Union-funded Resilience Against Climate Change, Transformation, and Policy Advocacy program have highlighted the significant impact of climate change on migration patterns and social transformation. This project, aimed at supporting sustainable development, involves 18 students from the Resilience Against Climate Change-Social Transformation Research and Policy Advocacy (REACH-STR) initiative. It is implemented in collaboration with various academic institutions, including the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the Centre for Migration Studies at the University of Ghana.
The beneficiaries, comprising 14 Master’s and four PhD students, conducted research in communities of the Savannah and Upper West Regions. Their studies focused on various themes such as gender, migration, climate resilience, and policy advocacy, providing critical insights into local dynamics. The findings revealed that climate change profoundly affects households in Northern Ghana, resulting in rapid sociocultural, political, and economic changes that exacerbate vulnerabilities and adaptation strategies.
The researchers emphasized the necessity for practical solutions aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture, improving institutional capacities, and developing gender-inclusive climate policies. Notably, migration emerged as a primary adaptive response for both men and women confronting the effects of climate change. Student Raqeebah Hisham noted differences in migration patterns, indicating that men were more likely to migrate from peri-urban areas for extended periods compared to women, who faced family responsibilities.
Additionally, Hisham observed a shifting dynamic where men assumed traditionally female tasks due to women’s migration, while women increasingly took on financial responsibilities typically reserved for men. She called for greater awareness and accessibility concerning migration policies to ensure locals benefit from relevant information, particularly emphasizing gender-sensitive aspects.
This initiative is crucial for developing climate-resilient communities and equipping future professionals to address challenges arising from climate change, migration, and gender issues. The recent graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of the scholars under the theme “Building Capacity of the Next Generation for Climate Resilient Development,” showcasing their contributions to the field.
Mr. Massimo Mina, the Head of Cooperation at the EU in Ghana, reiterated the European Union’s commitment to funding research and capacity-building efforts that enable substantial contributions to sustainable development. He acknowledged that the REACH-STR project is part of the broader EU-Ghana Agricultural Program (EUGAP), which integrates adaptive strategies across agricultural and infrastructural domains.
Dr. Birhanu Zemadim, Deputy Country Representative at IWMI Ghana, expressed gratitude for the European Union’s support. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation and the project’s potential influence on policy and development interventions that are grounded in societal transformation, recognizing the essential link between climate vulnerabilities and community resilience.
The research undertaken by the scholars highlights the profound impact of climate change on social dynamics and migration patterns in Ghana. Emphasizing solutions such as climate-smart agriculture and gender-inclusive policies is essential for effective adaptation and resilience. Furthermore, the findings call for greater awareness and understanding of migration policies among local populations. This initiative marks a significant commitment to equipping young professionals with the skills needed to manage pressing climate-related challenges, thereby fostering sustainable development in the region.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
