Perceptions and knowledge on climate change in local communities in the Offinso Municipality, Ghana

Climate change is considered to be a significant threat that faces mankind in this century. In Ghana, it is expected to have a significant effect on agriculture and other climate dependent livelihoods in all ten regions of the country. The development and implementation of policies on climate change in Ghana require the incorporation of local people’s perception and knowledge of the risks they are exposed to. A study to assess the perceptions and knowledge of climate change was undertaken in the Offinso Municipality in Ghana. The study used a cross-sectional design where the information gathered represented what was going on at one point in time. Respondents (307) were selected from Kwapanin, Koforidua, Kyebi, Sampronso and Anyinasuso communities using the systematic sampling method. The study used questionnaires, focus group discussions and targeted interviews to collect primary information on local people’s perception on climate change. The analysis used descriptive statistics (frequency and percentages) and chi-square to detect any association between demographic characteristics of local people and their perception of climate change. In addition the knowledge levels of respondents on climate change was analysed. The results indicate that perception of climate change is not influenced by origin, gender or level of education; however, it is significantly influenced by age. A knowledge portfolio showed that local people did not have in-depth knowledge on climate change in general. There is therefore the need to create awareness and sensitize local people on causes, indicators and effects of climate change.