Adapt or Perish? Local Stakeholders' Responses to Climate Change in Ghana’s Cocoa-Growing Regions

Abstract Climate change does not only impact farmers, but the perception and adaptive capacities of local stakeholders have not been well studied. Consequently, this study evaluated the views of local stakeholders regarding climate change impacts and their perceived adaptive capacities in cocoa-growing communities in Ghana. The study employed a phenomenological design and incorporated concepts from the adaptation process model, drawing on information from 24 stakeholders in the Ashanti, Western, and Western North regions of Ghana. The stakeholders identified several phenomena, like increased prevalence of pests and diseases, erratic rainfall patterns and declining soil fertility, as the current impacts of climate change. They also identified unemployment, urban migration, and water scarcity as some challenges facing their communities due to climate change. The local stakeholders perceived livelihood and crop diversification, training in sustainable farming practices, institutional support for irrigation infrastructure and climate-resilient farming techniques as important adaptation measures. The perceived adaptive capacities differed among stakeholder groups, and these differing perceptions of adaptive capacity could promote successful adaptation. We recommend the establishment of community-based adaptation committees to integrate local stakeholders' insights and knowledge into climate action plans. This approach will enhance their adaptive capacities and bolster community resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change.