The Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa is advocating for a collaborative approach in addressing land governance challenges and managing floods and disasters in Ghana.
Many parts of the country, including Ashanti Region’s capital, Kumasi, have over the years been inundated with floods, destroying several homes and properties while many lives were lost.
Experts in settlement policies and studies have observed a variety of causes for floods and disasters in the region, including conflicting legislations, a growing population, and political and traditional influence over the sale of lands leading to Gentrification.
Recent research by the Centre for Settlement Studies at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has revealed how wetlands within the Greater Kumasi metropolis are under siege, contributing to the flooding issue.
Wetlands that were originally reserved to help alleviate flood situations are now being taken over by private developers and settlers, posing a threat to the region’s environment.
The greenery in these areas is gradually depleting due to the increasing population and urbanization. The impact of this situation on flooding is significant, with affected individuals losing their incomes and homes while elites and private developers profit from the land sales.
A recent study investigated the causes and impacts of floods in seven flood-prone communities in Kumasi and highlighted the disproportionate impact on women.
Prof Sylvana Rudith King from the Centre of Settlement Studies at KNUST explained that women often bear the brunt of the floods as they are usually responsible for taking care of the home and domestic chores.
To address these challenges, a book highlighting the factors contributing to flooding and proposing solutions has been launched. The book aims to raise awareness and encourage stakeholders to take action to prevent floods and disasters.
The project is a collaboration with the German government and other African universities to improve land governance on the continent.
Stakeholders are urged to invest more resources into state institutions overseeing flood and disaster prevention and management.
The key findings from the research should be implemented to reduce flooding and improve disaster resilience in the region.
