Exploring the link between fisher folks' experimental knowledge and climate variability in an urban coastal community in Accra.

Abstract

The article looked at the possibility of integrating indigenous knowledge and scientific knowledge in fisheries management under the scenario of climate change and variability in an urban coastal community in Ghana. The objective was to explore fisher folk's perception of temperature and rainfall variability impact on fish catch. Focus group discussions were used for data collection in GaMashie. The results show that the fisher folks, through their experiential knowledge were able to tell that fish from marine artisanal fishing sources was getting depleted and this could be attributed to rising temperatures, rainfall variability and anthropogenic activities. However, information on the use of chemicals in fishing and the use of unprescribed fishing nets may have been acquired from public education. The paper calls for a greater collaboration between the local community, the scientific community and policy makers to develop sustainable adaptation and mitigation strategies that will be beneficial to the community.