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<p>Climate change has garnered significant attention since the late twentieth century owing to the risks it poses to all sectors of the global economy, particularly mobile pastoralism. Sub-Saharan Africa, which encompasses Ghana, is considered highly vulnerable, where many communities depend on livestock for survival, yet this livelihood is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate. This study examines climate change trends in the Wa East District, north-western Ghana, from 1981 to 2021. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected from 387 respondents alongside meteorological records. A seasonal trend analysis with time series regression was conducted to assess variations and forecast patterns up to 2060. Results indicate a statistically significant decline in mean annual rainfall, from 1,582&#xa0;mm in 1981 to below 720&#xa0;mm in some years, and a steady rise in temperatures, with maximum and minimum annual means increasing at rates of 0.021&#xa0;°C and 0.008&#xa0;°C per year, respectively (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.05). The alignment between respondents’ perceptions and meteorological evidence highlights the value of integrating local knowledge into adaptation strategies. Projections suggest continued warming and rainfall variability through 2060, with implications for water, pasture, and mobility. The study recommends intensified environmental protection and climate adaptation policies to safeguard pastoral livelihoods.</p>

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Integrating local perceptions and meteorological data to examine climate change trends among mobile pastoralists in North-western Ghana

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年12月11日

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  • Justice Aduko

摘要

Climate change has garnered significant attention since the late twentieth century owing to the risks it poses to all sectors of the global economy, particularly mobile pastoralism. Sub-Saharan Africa, which encompasses Ghana, is considered highly vulnerable, where many communities depend on livestock for survival, yet this livelihood is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate. This study examines climate change trends in the Wa East District, north-western Ghana, from 1981 to 2021. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected from 387 respondents alongside meteorological records. A seasonal trend analysis with time series regression was conducted to assess variations and forecast patterns up to 2060. Results indicate a statistically significant decline in mean annual rainfall, from 1,582 mm in 1981 to below 720 mm in some years, and a steady rise in temperatures, with maximum and minimum annual means increasing at rates of 0.021 °C and 0.008 °C per year, respectively (p < 0.05). The alignment between respondents’ perceptions and meteorological evidence highlights the value of integrating local knowledge into adaptation strategies. Projections suggest continued warming and rainfall variability through 2060, with implications for water, pasture, and mobility. The study recommends intensified environmental protection and climate adaptation policies to safeguard pastoral livelihoods.