UG-CMS-IDRC Research Chair on Forced Displacement

Stakeholder Field Visits – Ashanti & Greater Accra Regions

UG-CMS-IDRC Research Chair on Forced Displacement

On 8th and 23rd September 2023, Professor Mary Setrana, IDRC Research Chair on Forced Displacement and Director of the Centre for Migration Studies (CMS), University of Ghana, led a series of stakeholder engagement visits to selected communities in the Ashanti Region and Greater Accra Region. She was accompanied by members of the project team and faculty from CMS. These visits form part of the broader research initiative under the IDRC Research Chairs Network on Forced Displacement.

In Accra, the field engagements were conducted in collaboration with officials from the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), a key institutional partner in the research programme.

Communities Visited

The team visited four communities in the Greater Accra Region:

Tetegu

Wiaboman

Glefe

Old Fadama

These areas, located in the Weija-Gbawe and Ayawaso East Municipalities, have long histories of displacement linked to natural disasters, especially flooding, and unregulated human development. Engagements were held with community stakeholders including youth, women’s groups, and traditional leaders.

Key Observations

Tetegu

Tetegu is an island community situated between the River Densu and the sea. Extreme weather events have increased the water volume in the Densu River, regularly flooding the area and displacing hundreds of residents. Community members reported losses of livestock and livelihoods, with many seeking temporary refuge in nearby churches. Traditional authorities expressed deep concern over recurring displacements.

Wiaboman

Wiaboman lies on a Ramsar site that has been heavily encroached by housing developments. Previously home to a large salt mining company, much of the land is now occupied by informal housing. The team observed poor road conditions, recent flooding, and debris from washed-away homes. Despite the risks, the area remains densely populated with active economic life.

Glefe

A swampy settlement, Glefe hosts displaced people from varied national and ethnic backgrounds. Although some indigenous residents remain, a growing number of newcomers are constructing homes in high-risk, flood-prone areas. The situation raises concerns about vulnerability and sustainability.

Old Fadama

Old Fadama is located near the Odaw River and adjacent to the Agbogbloshie market and the Abossey Okai spare parts market. Historically, the site accommodated thousands of migrants and traders, including those at the "Sodom and Gomorrah" settlement. Persistent flooding due to poor waste management and urban encroachment continues to displace residents. The team observed that flooding remains unresolved and poses an ongoing threat to lives and livelihoods.

Strategic Impact

These visits enriched the research programme’s empirical foundation by capturing lived experiences and providing insights into displacement dynamics. The findings will inform:

Gender-sensitive policy recommendations

Evidence-based advocacy

Collaboration with key agencies such as NADMO

Development of inclusive frameworks for urban and environmental planning

This initiative is part of the broader work of the IDRC Research Chairs Network, which aims to reframe forced displacement research through a Global South lens—centering the voices, needs, and agency of displaced communities while advancing durable, equitable solutions across West Africa and beyond.