Climate change and flooding nexus: water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and mental health implications in Fuveme, Ghana

Introduction: Climate change refers to long-term temperature shifts driven by anthropogenic activities, resulting in extreme global weather patterns. These events include increased flooding disasters exacerbated by rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and tidal waves in coastal communities affecting access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), where LMICs in Sub-Saharan Africa bear a disproportionate brunt of climate action. This study explored the implications of climate induced flooding disasters on Water, Sanitation, Hygiene, and Mental health in the Fuveme-Keta District of the Volta Region, Ghana. Methods: An ethnographic qualitative approach was employed to collect data among eleven, purposively sampled key stakeholders and household heads, who consented to be interviewed. In-depth Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed using ATLAS.ti, and thematically analyzed. Results: Perennial flooding and storm surges destroy drinking water sources and access points, hygiene amenities, and sanitation (toilet) facilities. There is anxiety at the hint of rainstorms and depressive tendencies due to the loss of livelihood, family members, and property. Self-comfort and family support were the main coping mechanisms. Conclusion: The community’s strong attachment to their ancestral home and the limited options for alternative livelihoods, pose significant challenges for adaptation and resilience. Climate-resilient WASH infrastructure, specific mental health interventions, and alternative livelihood support are needed to improve resilience.