One major climate change impact affecting my local community in Ghana, especially in northern areas like Tamale where I was born and raised, is unpredictable rainfall and frequent flooding. In recent years, the rain has become less reliable. We often experience long dry periods, followed by heavy rains that fall within a short time and cause floods.
This has created many challenges for people in the community. Most households depend on rain-fed farming, so irregular rainfall makes it hard to know when to plant. This often leads to poor harvests and food shortages. Flooding also damages homes, especially in low-lying areas where drainage systems are poor or do not exist. During heavy rains, roads become flooded and difficult to use, making it hard for people to get to markets, schools, and health facilities. Floodwater that stays around for long periods also increases the risk of diseases like malaria and other water-borne illnesses, especially among children and older people.
To cope with these challenges, both community members and authorities have taken some steps. Farmers are adjusting their planting times, growing different crops, or using drought-resistant seeds when they can. Some residents dig small drainage paths or raise the level of their homes to reduce flood damage. The government has also worked on desilting drains and providing relief items to affected families, though these actions usually happen after flooding occurs. NGOs and local groups support the community by training farmers in climate-smart farming practices and educating people about environmental protection.
Overall, while my community is trying to adapt to climate change, progress is slow due to limited resources and planning. This shows the need for better infrastructure, stronger local climate policies, and continuous education to help communities better prepare for future climate risks.