Barriers and enablers of climate change adaptation in semi-arid Ghana

Canada's International Development Research Centre and JK aid funded this paper.This briefing note summarises the key findings from the Regional Diagnostic Study (RDS) recently conducted in Ghana, as part of the ASSAR project. The RDS aimed to: - Develop a systematic understanding of existing knowledge of climate change trends, impacts, vulnerabilities, and adaptation strategies. - Identify the key barriers and enablers of effective adaptation in semi-arid regions. - Identify gaps in research, policy and practice related to climate change adaptation. - Provide a foundation for developing an integrated regional research program (RRP) on climate change vulnerability and adaptation

ASSAR final report (2014-2018)

ASSAR’s overarching objective in the original proposal was to: “…strengthen knowledge systems in semi-arid regions (SARs) on climate change vulnerability and adaptation, to enable a shift from current adaptation practices and policy into a mode that achieves proactive, widespread adaptation embedded in development activities at multiple governance scales, yielding well-adapted enhanced livelihoods for vulnerable groups” (ASSAR proposal, pg. 21)

Planning for a harsher future

The brochure information emphasizes that by planning for a harsher future, people living in drought-prone areas can influence how climate changes will affect them. Personal stories illustrate some adaptive responses to seasonal climate forecasting such as diversifying crops, anticipating needs of livestock, and practicing soil and water conservation methods.UK Government’s Department for International Development (DfID