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Settling the Debate?: A Discourse Analysis of the Drivers of Coastal Erosion in the Volta River Delta of Ghana
University of West Florida Libraries
Master of Science (MS), University of West Florida
2026
Researchers expect river deltas to experience increasing and more extreme climate change impacts due to their convergence of particular biophysical and socioeconomic characteristics. The Volta River Delta (VRD) is one such river delta in which projections indicate that by 2050, climate change-induced sea level rise could cause approximately 20 meters of additional erosion in the low-lying area of the VRD. Additionally, this erosion will be compounded by human activities. Coastal erosion in the VRD is a complex issue influenced by natural and anthropogenic factors, including climate change-induced sea level rise, land subsidence, and reduced sediment supply due to dam construction. The interplay of these factors has sparked debate among researchers, policymakers, and local communities about the primary drivers of erosion in the region. In an attempt to address this debate, this study examines the discourses surrounding the drivers of coastal erosion in Ghana’s Volta River Delta (VRD) from the perspectives of government officials and national scientists. Using discourse analysis, this research explores how these different actors articulate and frame the causes of coastal erosion in the VRD. The study analyzes written sources of government perspectives versus scientific literature and conducts interviews with government officials and scientists to understand the various narratives and perspectives these actors have on this issue. Key findings reveal that all four sources recognize the multi-causal nature of erosion; however, written sources of government perspectives overlook the role of state infrastructure, particularly the Akosombo Dam and Tema Harbor, in reducing sediment budgets. In contrast, government officials and national scientists link erosion to this infrastructure, revealing a communication gap influenced by political accountability and the need to safeguard symbols of national development.
This study provides a more comprehensive understanding of the complex factors at play in erosion in the VRD. Rather than identify a single primary driver, the research acknowledges and examines various perspectives on the multiple drivers of coastal erosion in the VRD. Ultimately, this analysis can inform more effective and comprehensive approaches to addressing coastal erosion challenges in the VRD region.
- Settling the Debate?
- Thesis
- Kwame Owusu-Daaku (Committee Chair)Philip Schmutz (Committee Member)Jacob Shively (Committee Member)
- University of West Florida Libraries
- pdf
- 126
- Permission granted to the University of West Florida Libraries by the author to digitize and/or display this information for non-profit research and educational purposes. Any reuse of this item in excess of fair use or other copyright exemptions requires the permission of the copyright holder.
- 99381865461806600
- Earth and Environmental Sciences; Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering
- English
- University of West Florida; Master of Science (MS)
- Master of Science (MS), University of West Florida