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Abstract

Environmental Analysis & Ecology Studies

Analyzing Impact of Climate Change on Sustainable Livelihood and Water Resources in Wa West District, Upper West Region- Ghana

  • Open or CloseClifford James Fagariba1*, Robert Yakubu Adjuik2 and Asaah Sumaila Mohammed3

    1SDD University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Department of Environment and Resource Studies, Ghana

    2SD University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Faculty of Social Science, Ghana

    3CK Tedam University of Technology and Applied Science, Ghana

    *Corresponding author: Clifford James Fagariba, SDD University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Department of Environment and Resource Studies, Upper West Region-Ghana

Submission: February 23, 2023; Published: March 28, 2023

DOI: 10.31031/EAES.2023.10.000743

ISSN: 2578-0336
Volume 10 Issue 4

Abstract

According to research findings, climate change has the greatest impact on sustainable livelihoods in agriculture, where changes in precipitation patterns, high temperatures, and the frequency of extreme weather events are disrupting crop and livestock productivity, including water resources. The researchers utilized the Wa West District as a case study to evaluate the effects of climate change on agriculture and water resources. In the study, the logic regression model was used to determine the adaptation and mitigation strategies indigenous peoples were employing to strengthen their climate change resilience. The study also employed a weighted average index to evaluate the effects of climate change on agriculture and water supplies. 330 small-scale farmers were surveyed, and 100 key informants participated in the focus group discussions. Using a logistic regression model, the study determined that irrigation, drought resistant crops, mulching, fertilizer use, and agroforestry practices were the adaptation strategies farmers employed to improve resilience. In addition, input subsidies, access to weather information, dam construction, and improved agricultural policies were the most preferred mitigation strategies for reducing vulnerability in the study area. According to a Weighted Average Index used in the study, the most prevalent impacts of climate change on livelihood were water scarcity, high temperatures, low soil fertility, biodiversity loss and low yield. According to the study, the ability of farmers to adapt to climate change can be enhanced if the Environmental Protection Agency, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and the Forestry Commission intensify climate adaptation campaigns, increase access to weather information, and train farmers on adaptable and mitigation strategies, water resource conservation, and alternative livelihoods.

Keywords:Water; Agriculture; Livelihood; Climate Change; Mitigation; Adaptation

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