Socio- Economic Impact of Lake Bosomtwe Shoreline Changes on Catchment Residents in Ghana

Abstract

relies largely on fishing in the lake and farming on the marginal lands. The relationship between the land use practices in the catchments, people’s livelihood and the lake fishing environment is fascinating, because of the belief that the catchment forests and streams help make the lake basin a rich habitat. However, recent human activities and shoreline changes of the lake are believed to have subjected the catchment areas to undue deforestation from uncoordinated farming practices. The unparalleled degradation of the catchments has disrupted the fish ecology, hence dwindling livelihood opportunities. The local population has had to diversify livelihood strategies. This study examined the impacts of the shoreline changes on the livelihood of the surrounding communities. The study employed the mixed methods approach to undertake the research by triangulating primary and secondary source data. In-depth interview and questionnaire were used to solicit information from eighty seven (87) respondents on their knowledge and perception on Lake Bosomtwe shoreline change and its impacts on their livelihoods. The main findings of the study are that the gradual depletion of the lake is being felt by the population who depend on the lake for their means of livelihood. It is recommended that committees be set up within the three districts to provide environmental education and proper management of the lake as it serves as the highest income generating venture