Unveiling the Harsh Realities of Climate Change in Old Fadama's Konkomba Community

As I stepped into the Konkomba community in Old Fadama, I was met with a stark reality that would stay with me forever. The community, nestled in the heart of the city, is a testament to the struggles of urbanization and climate change. Wooden structures, poor road access, and lack of gutters paint a picture of a community left behind.

Our team, led by PhD student Reiforce Okwei, embarked on an enumeration exercise to assess the impacts of climate change on this vulnerable community. What we found was alarming. Many residents attributed climate change to divine intervention, while others linked it to pollution. However, a significant number had no idea what climate change meant or how it affected their lives.

The community's struggles are multifaceted. Flooding and fire outbreaks are common occurrences, exacerbated by poor infrastructure and lack of preparedness. Residents live in fear of the next disaster, with many relying on personal savings or loans to recover from climate-related shocks. The lack of trust in institutions is palpable, with many feeling neglected and abandoned.

Despite these challenges, the community's resilience shines through. During our final meeting at the Kotokoli Chief's palace, residents shared their stories and concerns. The event was covered by PramCity TV, bringing attention to the community's plight. Cedric Dzelu, Technical Advisor to the Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, graced the occasion with inspiring words.

As I reflect on our experience, it's clear that the Konkomba community needs targeted interventions. Climate awareness workshops, infrastructure development, and community-led initiatives can help build resilience and adapt to climate change. It's time for stakeholders to come together and address the community's needs.

I'm proud to have been part of this project, and I hope our findings will spark meaningful change. As a procurement officer with Frontline for Climate Action, I'll continue to advocate for communities like Konkomba, who deserve a brighter future.

By John Coblah Matrevi, Procurement Officer, Frontline for Climate Action