The REACH-STR program in Ghana, funded by the EU, focuses on the impact of climate change on migration and social transformation. Research by 18 students highlights the urgent need for climate-smart agriculture and gender-inclusive policies. Findings reveal changing migration patterns and household roles, urging stakeholders to disseminate migration policies effectively. This initiative fosters resilience and equips young professionals to tackle climate challenges, with support from EU and IWMI.
Recent research conducted by the European Union-funded Resilience Against Climate Change-Social Transformation Research and Policy Advocacy (REACH-STR) program underscores the intersection of climate change, migration patterns, and social transformation in Ghana. The initiative supports sustainable development pathways and involves significant collaboration among institutions, including the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the University of Ghana.
The REACH-STR project benefits 18 students—14 Master’s and 4 PhD candidates—who examined various topics such as gender dynamics, climate resilience, and migration strategies within Northern Ghana’s Savannah and Upper West Regions. Their findings reveal that climate change significantly affects local households, presenting both vulnerabilities and necessitating adaptation measures that include climate-smart agricultural practices and enhanced institutional capacities.
Among their discoveries, the scholars identified migration as a primary adaptation strategy employed by both genders in response to climate change effects. Raqeebah Hisham, a student engaged in gender-focused research, reported increased migration trends, particularly in peri-urban areas. She noted differences in migration experiences between men and women, with men tending to migrate for longer durations while women undertake household responsibilities and shorter migration trips.
Hisham also highlighted the evolving roles within households during migration, where men must engage in chores traditionally assigned to women and women assume financial responsibilities typically held by their male counterparts. She emphasized the need for accessible migration policies to better inform the affected communities about their rights, particularly concerning gender-sensitive regulations.
The graduation ceremony, themed “Building Capacity of the Next Generation for Climate Resilient Development,” celebrated the achievements of the scholars and reinforced the project’s goal to equip young professionals with critical skills for addressing climate change. EU’s Head of Cooperation in Ghana, Mr. Massimo Mina, affirmed the EU’s commitment to empowering youth and integrating climate adaptation into development strategies.
Dr. Birhanu Zemadim, Deputy Country Representative at IWMI Ghana, praised the strong collaboration between organizations involved in the REACH-STR initiative. He emphasized the capacity-building success cultivated through this program, which holds the promise of influencing Ghana’s climate policy and development efforts.
The insights provided by the REACH-STR project’s scholars significantly advance understanding of the impact of climate change on social dynamics and migration in Ghana. By identifying critical adaptation strategies and revealing the changing roles of men and women in migration contexts, this research offers invaluable information for policymakers. Moving forward, enhancing awareness of migration policies and continuing to build climate resilience through collaborative efforts remains essential for sustainable development.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
