As the impacts of climate change intensify, Ghana is facing a growing crisis: climate migration. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events are affecting agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods, driving people to move.
The data is stark. In 2022, over 100,000 people were displaced in Ghana due to floods and droughts (IDMC, 2022). The World Bank estimates that climate change could lead to a 10% decline in Ghana’s GDP by 2050 if left unchecked (World Bank, 2020).
Small-scale farmers and rural communities are most affected, with 70% of Ghana’s population relying on rain-fed agriculture (FAO, 2020).
To address this crisis, Ghana needs significant investment in climate resilience. The country requires $1.5 billion annually to implement its climate action plans (Ghana NDC, 2020).
The government’s efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture and climate-resilient infrastructure are steps in the right direction. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of climate migration.
The international community also has a responsibility to act. Developed countries, which have contributed significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, must provide adequate climate finance and technology transfer to support vulnerable countries like Ghana.
We urge policymakers, civil society, and individuals to take action. Let’s work together to address the root causes of climate migration and build a more resilient, sustainable future for all Ghanaians!
Source: www.climatewatchonline.com
