Climate Change Adaptation Practices in Ghana: Harnessing Local Knowledge Systems in Time of Disaster in the Bongo District of The Upper East Region

Abstract

Globally, climate change adaptation efforts sometimes disregard the unique contribution of indigenous knowledge systems. This study sought to assess climate change adaptation techniques that include local knowledge systems into disaster management in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region. The mixed method was employed in the study, with 351 respondents sampled. The simple random and purposive sampling procedures were used. Primary and secondary data sources were also used. Data collecting methods included questionnaires, focus group talks, and key informant interviews. The findings revealed a diverse local knowledge system within the Bongo District, such as multi-cropping, cultivation of drought-resistant and water-resistant crops, tree planting around dwellings, and the use of sand crate blocks for construction, which were integrated into modern disaster management frameworks. The study also highlighted the use of these local knowledge systems in managing climate-related disasters such as floods, droughts, windstorms, and pest infestations. Notable approaches included cultivating early developing crop varieties, using sand for block molding, strategic tree planting, rooftop reinforcing, applying organic fertilizers, soil conservation techniques and using traditional crop protection methods. These approaches, when integrated into disaster management plans, provide robust responses to climate-induced adversity. Based on these findings, recommendations are provided to relevant agencies such as the National Disaster Management Organization, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Ghana Meteorological Agency to strengthen community capacity-building initiatives for disaster preparedness and mitigation. Communities can increase their resilience to the effects of climate change by combining indigenous knowledge systems with modern techniques.