XXXXXXSAssessment of the factors that influence the choice of wetland-based livelihoods in the keta lagoon complex Ramsar site (KLCRS) of South-eastern Ghana

Abstract

Studies have shown that anthropogenic pressures such as overexploitation and climate change impacts are contributing to the decline in biodiversity particularly fisheries and wildlife of coastal wetlands worldwide. The Keta Lagoon Complex Ramsar Site (KLCRS), which is Ghana's largest coastal wetland ecosystem serves as a major source of livelihoods for resident communities in the area. This study explored the variables that influenced the decision to choose livelihood options among selected communities in the Keta Lagoon Complex. In all, 384 randomly sampled households and 14 purposively selected individuals from Anloga district and Keta municipality were engaged using a mixed method approach. They were engaged using structured interview questions and a validated in-depth interview guide. Results were analysed using descriptive statistics, principal component analysis (PCA) and content analysis. The findings showed that physiological factors such as the desire to meet basic needs were largely responsible for respondents’ choice of livelihood. Also, 63.5% of respondents were found to be engaged in fishing as their primary source of livelihood. It is recommended that Government in collaboration with other stakeholders including traditional leaders of communities of Ghana’s Ramsar sites encourage the adoption of non-wetland-based livelihood options such as carpentry and construction work to help minimize the anthropogenic pressures on the wetland.