Registered NGO · RGD CG044450523Registered non-profit organisation in Ghana · RGD No. CG044450523
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Plain-language explainers, key facts about climate change in Ghana and across Africa, and practical actions that households, schools and communities can take today.
Climate basics
Climate change is the long-term shift in temperatures and weather patterns. Since the 1800s, burning coal, oil and gas has released greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, warming the planet and disrupting rainfall, seasons and sea levels.
Weather is what happens today. Climate is the pattern over decades — and that pattern is changing.
Mitigation means reducing the greenhouse gases that cause climate change — for example planting trees or using clean energy. Adaptation means adjusting to impacts we can no longer avoid — such as saving water for dry spells or preparing for floods.
For most African communities, adaptation is urgent today; mitigation protects tomorrow.
Climate justice recognises that the people who did least to cause climate change — including most African communities — often suffer its worst effects. It calls for fair support, a strong voice in decisions and solutions that reduce inequality rather than deepen it.
It is why ACAI puts community voice at the centre of everything we do.
Facts that matter
Understanding local impacts helps communities prepare. These are some of the trends shaping life in Ghana today.
<4%
Africa produces less than 4% of global carbon dioxide emissions, yet is widely recognised as one of the most climate-vulnerable regions on Earth.
~70%
Around 70% of people in sub-Saharan Africa depend on farming, and about 95% of food production relies on rainfall rather than irrigation.
550 km
About two-thirds of Ghana's coastline is affected by erosion and flooding, with some areas losing several metres of land each year.
North
Northern Ghana faces prolonged dry spells that affect water, crops and food security — including a damaging dry spell in mid-2024.
Floods
Intense rainfall, blocked drains and rapid urban growth increase flood risk in cities such as Accra and Kumasi.
Youth
Most Africans are under 25. Young people will live longest with climate impacts — and have the most to contribute to solutions.
Sources: World Bank Climate Change Knowledge Portal; Ghana National Adaptation Plan Framework; Ghana News Agency reporting on coastal resilience (2024); regional reporting on northern Ghana dry spells (2024). Figures are rounded for clarity.
Take action
Big change is built from everyday choices. These actions are low-cost, practical and suited to life in Ghana.
Choose native or fruit trees and agree who waters them through the dry season.
Collect rain from roofs in clean, covered containers for use during dry spells.
Never dump plastic in gutters — blocked drains are a major cause of urban flooding.
Carry a reusable bag and bottle, and separate plastics for collection where possible.
Switch off lights and appliances, choose LED bulbs and consider solar lamps.
Improved cookstoves use less charcoal or firewood, save money and protect forests.
Turn peels and leaves into rich compost for school or home gardens.
Drink water often, rest in shade at midday and check on children and older neighbours.
Bring classmates together for clean-ups, tree care and climate learning.
Share what you learn with family, faith groups and local leaders — conversation drives action.
Glossary
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Yes. Ghana is experiencing higher temperatures, less predictable rainfall, longer dry spells in the north, heavier downpours in some areas and significant coastal erosion. These changes affect farming, water supply, health and education.
A great deal. Schools shape the habits of thousands of families. A single eco-club can plant and protect trees, cut waste, and inspire parents and local leaders to act. Collective small actions add up to large change.
Yes. Through our Climate Literacy & Green Schools programme we run interactive sessions for primary and junior high learners and support teachers with simple lesson ideas. Request a school workshop.
Absolutely. You are welcome to share Climate Hub content for non-commercial educational purposes. Please credit the Africa Climate Action Initiative (ACAI).
Relief responds after a crisis. Adaptation prepares before it, reducing the damage in the first place — for example by storing water, planting shade trees or agreeing a community flood plan. Preparing early is usually far cheaper and saves more lives.
Be part of the solution
Volunteer your skills, bring a climate workshop to your school, or partner with us to help African communities adapt, learn and lead.
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