Landslides in Ghana and their economic significance
Abstract
Landslides occur throughout Ghana hut the largest ones are in the Voltaian Formation of Paleozoic age. Fortunately most of these landslides are in sparsely settled areas. Small landslides are common in Birrimian metamorphic rocks of Precambrian age. Joints, foliation, differential weathering and vegetation are important factors affecting the distribution of landslides. The type of soil is also important; lateritic soils hold up well on slopes but saprolitic soils fail easily. Landslides have devastated forests, farms, and roads. The total cost is estimated between half a million and a million dollars depending on the annual rainfall intensity.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Landslides and related hazards
Soil erosion and sediment transport
Tree Root and Stability Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- CRC Press eBooks
- Pages
- 239–243
- Publication date
- 14 January 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter