Earthquake risk in Accra, Ghana: Household perceptions, awareness, and preparedness in a rapidly urbanising metropolis

This study investigates household perceptions, awareness, and preparedness regarding earthquake risk in Ghana’s Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), which is increasingly vulnerable due to its position on two fault lines and rapid urbanisation. Employing a mixed-methods approach between April and June 2023, researchers collected data through a proportional survey of 383 household heads across four communities with frequent tremors, alongside 20 semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed through descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests, and a binary logistic regression to identify predictors of preparedness, while qualitative data added contextual depth. Secondary sources, including government reports and peer-reviewed articles, ensured empirical robustness.

Key findings reveal a high level of risk awareness—over half had experienced tremors—yet actual preparedness remains critically low: only 32.9% knew standard earthquake procedures, and a mere 5.5% had post-earthquake recovery plans. Most households were unprepared or poorly prepared, prioritising immediate hazards like floods over earthquakes. Education and prior tremor experience emerged as significant predictors of preparedness. The authors recommend strengthening the enforcement of Ghana’s Building Code, mobilising resources for local preparedness committees, and integrating disaster risk reduction into basic education curricula. Enhanced risk communication and systematic community-based preparedness are essential to bridge the awareness-preparedness gap and reduce future earthquake impacts in Accra.