Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of fisherfolk in Ghana toward climate change: A cross-sectional study

Climate change poses serious risks to coastal livelihoods and marine ecosystems. Ghana’s artisanal fisheries sector is vital for food security and employment, yet fisherfolk’s climate adaptation awareness remains understudied. The mixed research methodologies were adopted in this study. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 800 consenting adult fisherfolk across three coastal regions in Ghana. Structured questionnaires assessed knowledge, attitudes, and adaptation practices. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify predictors of knowledge and attitudes. The study revealed that Eighty three percent of respondents have heard about climate change with sixty four percent demonstrating having adequate knowledge. Only Forty three percent exhibited positive attitudes towards climate change adaptation and mitigation. The education level and years of experience of respondents were significant predictors. The adaptation practices included mangrove conservation reforestation and proper waste disposal standing at fifty six percent, Forty eight percent and Forty six percent respectively. The media sources and community leaders were the primary channels of climate information. Although climate awareness is relatively high, limited adaptive attitudes and practices persisted. The strengthening of education, local engagement, and community-based interventions are essential in enhancing climate change resilience within fisheries-dependent communities.