Community-Based Early Warning Systems in Coastal Ghana Villages: Implementation Outcomes and Effectiveness Study

Community-based early warning systems (EWS) are crucial for enhancing resilience against natural disasters such as cyclones in coastal areas of Ghana. The effectiveness of these systems is often under-researched, particularly in terms of their implementation outcomes and community engagement. The study employs a combination of qualitative interviews with local leaders and quantitative surveys among village residents. Data collection was conducted from December to March . A notable finding is the significant increase in community awareness regarding cyclone risks, with over 75% of respondents indicating improved understanding after system implementation. Community engagement varied, with a higher proportion (60%) in villages that received additional training and support from local authorities. The early warning systems have effectively enhanced community preparedness for cyclones, though there is room for improvement in ensuring consistent participation and feedback mechanisms. Local authorities should prioritise continuous engagement and regular updates to sustain the effectiveness of these systems. Enhanced training programmes are recommended to address variability in community response rates.