Ghana: A systems-based roadmap guides climate-resilient infrastructure investment
This case study was collected through a Call for Good Practices on Reducing Risk across SDG Transitions, launched by the UN DRR Focal Points Group in 2024.
SDGs addressed: 13 | 7 | 9
Heatwaves, floods and coastal erosion endanger Ghana's power, water-supply and transport networks. In 2023 the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation (MESTI), UNOPS, UNEP, the Global Center on Adaptation and University of Oxford produced a Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Roadmap. Using the National Infrastructure Systems Modelling Tool (NISMOD) plus EnABLE and FundABLE, the team quantified geospatial risks, evaluated adaptation options and prioritised projects, linking each to potential finance. Eighty-two adaptation funds were mapped for follow-up mobilisation.
Innovation and Success factors
- Systems approach links multiple infrastructure sectors and the natural & enabling environments.
- Advanced analytics (NISMOD) quantify cross-sector adaptation needs; EnABLE & FundABLE match options with finance.
- Participatory process-online workshops (COVID context) kept stakeholders engaged and built capacity.
Key impacts
- Prioritised adaptation roadmap across energy, water and transport.
- Project concepts ranked for feasibility, cost and co-benefits (SDGs, NDCs, gender).
- 82 funding sources identified for government and partners.
- Stakeholder capacity built in systems modelling and risk-informed investment.
Lessons learned for replication or adaptation
- Inclusive workshops make risk-to-investment linkage credible and actionable.
- Holistic systems analysis prevents maladaptation in interconnected sectors.
- Early finance mapping accelerates post-study implementation.
- Remote facilitation works when tools and Internet access are provided.
Organisations involved
- UN entities: UNOPS (lead), UNEP
- Government: MESTI; sector ministries (Energy, Transport, Sanitation & Water Resources)
- Partners: Global Center on Adaptation; University of Oxford; local agencies & communities