Enhancing Community Stewardship towards Aquatic Ecosystem Health in Ghana: (A Case Study of Ada Coastal Environment)

Abstract

Coastal zones are considered as one of the productive zones of the world. With diverse ecosystems, they provide humankind with immense ecological services. However, coastal aquatic ecosystems have been increasingly threatened as a result of population growth and increasing rate of economic development. To address this issue, there is the need to reshape attitude and practices in the current rate of development, for the mutual benefit of aquatic ecosystems and human societies. This study evaluated the ecological health of the aquatic ecosystems in the coastal area of Ada in Ghana and designed a non-formal educational model to enhance community stewardship. Participatory methods (including household questionnaire, focus group discussions and key informant interviews) described the activities of community members and their perception of the impacts on the aquatic ecosystems. Results from an ecological survey revealed that landuse is poor in over 70% of the sampled aquatic ecosystems. The levels of phosphate (1.29mg/l) and nitrate (2.73mg/l) are comparatively higher than the natural background levels of 0.02mg/l and 0.23mg/l for phosphate and nitrate respectively. The high levels of phosphate and nitrate could be detrimental to plant and animal life. Population and economic pressure was identified as the major issue of aquatic ecosystems. Based on various educational concepts and series of local consultations, an ecosystem stewardship educational model for the local communities is proposed. The model integrates three essential dimensions; knowledge of the local environment, developing skills through practical strategies and promoting sustainable values. Application guidelines are also developed focusing on the non-formal sector of society. The practice of ecosystem stewardship was exemplified in the coastal communities of the study area to demonstrate the application of the educational model and its guidelines.