Ghana is vulnerable to increasing aridity, droughts and extreme rainfall events and flooding, and faces significant challenges from a changing climate to its ecology, economy, and society. In addition, Ghana has a high degree of risk to natural hazards and disasters. The country is exposed to risks from multiple weather-related hazards, primarily those due to floods and droughts in the Northern Savannah belt. There are also risks related to coastal resources, including storm surges and coastal erosion as well as landslides, earthquakes, pest infestations, and wildfires. Between 1991 and 2011 the country experienced seven major floods. In 2010, floods in the White Volta River Basin affected hundreds of thousands of people and destroyed many of their livelihoods. Urban floods also regularly impact major cities. Current development dynamics and demographic changes in Ghana further compound the risk of disasters. These dynamics are related to rural poverty, rapid urbanization, and environmental degradation. Agriculture and livestock, two sectors most impacted by weatherrelated hazards, constitute the foundation of Ghana’s economy and employ 55% of the economically active population. Climate change and variability are already affecting Ghana’s water resources with damage and flood exposure projected to result in $160 million annually.

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