Towards the Achievement of Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation in the Eastern Coast of Ghana: The Role of Stakeholders

Disaster management has gained significant attention at both the international and local levels. This study explores power dynamics and examines the role of stakeholders at various governance levels in ensuring disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) resilience among vulnerable communities. The study was conducted in Anloga and Ada East in Volta and Graeter Accra Regions of Ghana. It employed a mixed method approach for data collection. Qualitative participants (national, regional, district and community leaders) were purposively sampled while quantitative respondents (household heads) were systematically sampled. The qualitative data was analysed manually using the thematic approach and the quantitative using SPSS Version 21. Two proportions z -test was used to test for the significance of association or differences among the variables. The study revealed that policies, regulations and action plans were often employed as DRR and CCA strategies using a bottom-up approach. Visibility of disaster volunteer groups, relief support and capacity building of community members, which are key DRR and CCA activities at the local level, recorded a low ‘Yes’ response of less than 50% and a significant test for proportion among the two districts of p < .0001. It provides insights that can inform policy and interventions aimed at enhancing multi-stakeholder coordination, community empowerment and sustainable disaster management. It contributes to addressing the unexplored nexus between global frameworks, national institutions, and community-level stakeholder participation in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation management in Ghana.