SRJS_ToC_GH Sustainable management of the Mono and Weto landscape in Ghana

The Mole and Weto landscapes in Ghana are located in two distinct ecological zones within the Volta Basin: the Mole landscape in the northern savannah zone and the predominantly mountainous forest Weto landscape that is further downstream, alongside Lake Volta. Both landscapes are characterized by high biodiversity values that are coming under increasing threat from unsustainable land uses. The Volta Basin contributes significantly to Ghana’s economic development, especially through the provision of vital water resources. However, population growth coupled with the push for economic growth, unsustainable agricultural expansion and a high rate of urbanization has led to increased competition over land and water resources. This has resulted in an alarming rate of deforestation, which affects biodiversity, the provision of water, food security and climate resilience. Local communities are most affected by these negative impacts, as they suffer from low agricultural yields due to changing climate and reduced soil fertility. Activities such as legal and illegal mining, quarrying and the development of infrastructure along the main water bodies in the Basin are affecting water quality and its natural flow. Although there are currently no huge infrastructure developments or companies that are impacting the landscapes, except hydropower dams, there have been discussions related to oil drilling in the Volta Basin. The landscape also has some gold deposits. Extractive industries and related infrastructure development could potentially have a severe impact on the ecosystems in the landscape.