A Senior Lecturer at the Department of Sociology and Social Work, Dr. Seth Christopher Yaw Appiah, has called for a review of Ghana's migration policies to address climate-induced migration. He emphasised the need for the attention of the Government to oversee climate-related issues, noting a gap in the current national migration policies. This, he believes, if carefully considered, will solve migration issues caused by climate change.
He made this call at the scientific symposium organised by the Department of Sociology and Social Work at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi. The event was held under the theme “Post COP28: An Integrated and Interdisciplinary Response to Climate Migration or Immobility and Social Determinants of Health in Ghana.”
He also revealed the complex relationship between climate change and migration. He stressed that the symposium is aimed to shift the conversation beyond the confines of physical science to the social sciences, recognising that human experiences are at the heart of climate-related challenges.
Professor Samuel Adu-Gyamfi of the Department of History and Political Studies explored the historical ties between climate migration and individuals' places of origin, offering a unique medico-historical perspective. He stressed the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare systems tailored to address the diverse challenges faced by climate migrants, from physical ailments to mental health issues. He explained that people going back to areas affected by climate issues often attribute their return to a deep respect for their ancestors. This strong connection and belief in the spiritual influence of their forebears motivate individuals to rebuild and take back control of their communities, even when facing climate challenges.
The presentation showed that valuing and honouring ancestors are crucial to how people respond to climate-related moves, stressing the importance of cultural and historical bonds. It also highlighted how traditions and spirituality can provide strength during tough times, emphasising the need to acknowledge and protect the wisdom passed down through generations in the context of climate change.
In a discussion on transdisciplinary research on climate migration from a socio-medical perspective, Professor Jonathan Mensah Dapaah highlighted various challenges, including malnutrition, health-related illnesses, waterborne diseases, changes in vector economy, mental health impacts, and fatalities. He proposed that governments and local authorities worldwide should formulate social protection policies that cater for vulnerable populations during environmental disasters and related problems.