The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability at Harvard University convened a high-level policy dialogue on climate adaptation in the Gulf of Guinea at Ghana’s Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
The meeting brought together leading researchers and policymakers from Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire to explore urgent solutions to the growing climate challenges facing coastal communities.In her opening remarks, Hon. Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, underscored that government action alone cannot fully address the impacts of climate change.
She praised the multidisciplinary nature of the research presentations, noting that climate adaptation is not only an environmental issue but also an economic, social, and human development concern.
Hon. Arthur urged researchers to integrate local knowledge and lived experiences into their work, emphasizing that fishermen who read the tides and elders who have witnessed decades of shoreline change hold valuable insights for shaping effective responses.
The research team, led by Professor Emmanuel Akyeampong of Harvard University, presented findings on sea-level rise, future coastal scenarios, artisanal fisheries, mental health, and the blue economy.
Their analysis warned that climate change is already reshaping coastal life, with rising sea levels and erosion severely affecting areas such as Ada, Anyanui, and Keta.
The team also highlighted the growing mental and emotional stress in communities grappling with displacement and loss of income.The dialogue was widely regarded as productive, generating shared insights and impactful recommendations.
Participants expressed optimism that the discussions would translate into concrete measures to strengthen resilience and protect livelihoods across the Gulf of Guinea.
Key Participants
Professor Gareth Doherty (Harvard University&National University of Singapore)
Supriya Ambwani (Harvard University)
Professor Emmanuel Akyeampong (Harvard University)
Professor Robert Paarlberg (Harvard University)
Professor Kwasi Appeaning Addo (University of Ghana)
Professor John Kusimi (University of Ghana)
Dr. Rebecca Berkoh-Oforiwaa (University of Ghana&Environmental Protection Agency)
Participating Countries
Ghana
Nigeria
Côte d’Ivoire
Participating Institutions
Harvard University
University of Ghana
Félix Houphouët-Boigny University
Source: Fisheries GH
