Flooding and livelihood adaptation strategies of farmers in Builsa South and Talensi districts in the Upper East Region

Abstract

The livelihoods of farmers in the Upper East Region of Ghana, is based on crop production which is often been affected by floods. As a result, farmers have continuously been adjusting their livelihood against the impacts of floods. This study examined the effects of flooding on farmers‟ livelihood and the adaptation strategies of farmers to ensure food security. Using cross-sectional and descriptive designs, a concurrent mixed method approach involving both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were used. The sample size was 343 respondents who were selected using multi-stage and simple random sampling techniques. In addition, four key informants were purposively selected for in-depth interviews while two focus group discussions with male and female farmer groups were also conducted. Analysis of data involved the application of descriptive statistics and chi-square test. The study found that respondents largely had access to farmlands for crop production even though they did not have absolute control over the lands. Also, floods negatively affected farmers, leading to the reduction in crop production. The major challenge confronting flood adaptation was finance and inadequate institutional support. However, the study concludes that floods contributed to serious food security challenges among farmers in the selected districts. It was, therefore, recommended that farmers should engage in small scale enterprises in the form of petty trading and joint businesses to support their traditional livelihood source which can boost their food security. Farmers should also work with the various NADMO coordinators in the districts to develop a comprehensive public information system within their localities to create awareness on the dangers and impacts of floods as a way of preparing themselves for the floods.