Analysis of shoreline change and community-based restoration initiatives in Lake Bosomtwe, Ghana

The Lake Bosomtwe catchment has undergone rapid morphodynamics in response to natural and anthropogenic perturbations leading to socio-ecological effects on residents living in proximity to the lake. Few studies have sought to assess the effect of the lake’s physical changes and community-based interventions. Hence, the main objective of this study is to highlight modifications in the Lake’s shoreline and the restoration initiatives undertaken by the adjourning communities. The study utilised spatial techniques to model the long-term rate of change of shorelines from 2010 to 2022, calculated using Net Shoreline Movement (NSM) and End Point Rate (EPR). In-depth interviews were conducted with Assembly members, Chiefs, and Fishermen in the lake’s catchment area to evaluate the historical shoreline changes and restoration initiatives. According to the findings, 29.2% of the overall shoreline was found to be eroding, while 70.8% was accreting between 2010 and 2022. The communities have implemented both soft and hard techniques to combat shoreline changes. The soft methods include planting native vegetation and utilising indigenous ecological knowledge. To prevent sediment deposition, a hard technique was employed, which involved the construction of drains in some comminities. Despite the various restoration initiatives undertaken, the success rate has been marginal. The paper recommends, among others, a comprehensive scientific approach that integrates indigenous ecological knowledge and modern technology to guarantee the complete restoration and sustainability of the Lake.