Effects of COVID-19 on Coastal Livelihoods in the Central Region of Ghana

Overview

Journal Soc Sci Humanit Open

Date 2023 Feb 23

PMID 36816100

Authors

John Oti Amoah

Theresah Addai-Mununkum

Georgina Yaa Oduro

Amanda Odoi

John Windie Ansah

Dorothy Takyiakwaa

Pearl Sakyi-Djan

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The COVID-19 outbreak effects and related state responses, especially mobility restriction interventions, contributed to disruption in livelihoods in the coastal communities in Ghana. This paper uses an ethnographic approach to analyse the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and coping strategies adopted by small-scale fishers, fish traders and processors. We argued that focusing solely on the livelihoods of formal sector workers is problematic because it fails to consider the dynamics of informal coastal workers. Findings indicate that fishers, fish traders and processors experienced various effects on food, income, police harassment, and coping strategies, including migration, resorting to reusable face masks and food-compromising practices. Infectious diseases such as COVID-19 impact coastal people and their livelihoods. Therefore, implementing social protection measures to mitigate the effects of pandemics on livelihoods should be better coordinated and well-targeted to reach the most vulnerable. Findings from this study offer pointers to position preparedness and response efforts to future outbreaks in a similar context.

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