The effects of flood disasters on urban farmers in Ghana: a case-based perspective
摘要
The relationship between urban flooding and the experiences of urban farmers has received limited scholarly attention, despite its growing relevance in the context of rapid urbanization and climate variability. Urban farmers, who often operate in flood-prone zones, face unique vulnerabilities that threaten their livelihoods and food security. Therefore, this study seeks to address three main research questions: (1) What specific challenges do urban farmers face due to recurrent flooding? (2) What adaptation strategies do they employ to cope with flood-related effects? and (3) What are their perceptions and attitudes toward increasing flood events? A total of 91 urban crop farmers, comprising 44 from KNUST and 47 from Gyenyase, were selected and interviewed. Data collection was complemented by focus group discussions (FGDs) and direct observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were subjected to a content analysis. The results revealed key challenges faced by urban crop farmers, including loss of crop yield, restricted access to farms, and increased pest and disease infestations. These challenges negatively affect farmers’ psychological and emotional well-being. The Relative Importance Index (RII) analysis indicated that the most practiced adaptation strategies among urban crop farmers included changing crop types, farmer migration to less flood-prone areas, and planting trees. Furthermore, key barriers to flood adaptation include lack of government support, financial constraints, and insufficient knowledge. A chi-square test analysis revealed significant relationships between some socioeconomic, and farmers’ attitudes to flood in Gyenyase and KNUST. This study highlights the need to develop strategies and policies that effectively support urban farmers in flood-prone areas, as this group is often overlooked in municipal agricultural planning.