The Ghana Institute of Geoscientists (GhIG) has launched a new initiative aimed at helping Ghana better prevent and manage floods and landslides through scientific research and evidence-based planning.
The initiative, dubbed “Geoscience for a Safer Ghana”, forms part of the institute’s response to the recent flooding and landslides that claimed lives, displaced thousands of people and caused extensive damage to property across the country.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 6, 2026, the institute expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones and those affected by the disasters, while commending emergency responders for their efforts.
GhIG said although emergency relief remains important, the country must also focus on long-term solutions that address the root causes of recurring floods and landslides.
Three immediate recommendations
As part of its response, the institute proposed three urgent measures it believes can be implemented immediately.
It called on the government to carry out rapid geohazard mapping in the worst-affected districts using satellite imagery and remote sensing technology to identify high-risk areas and support decisions on emergency shelters and resettlement.
The institute also urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to suspend the approval of new building permits in known flood-prone areas and unstable slopes until proper geoscientific assessments have been conducted.
In addition, GhIG wants the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to include professional geoscientists in its field assessment teams so that geological expertise can guide ongoing damage assessments and recovery efforts.
According to the institute, these measures would help shift Ghana’s disaster response from reacting to emergencies to preventing them through scientific planning.
National campaign throughout July
As part of the “Geoscience for a Safer Ghana” initiative, GhIG will roll out several activities throughout July to educate the public and contribute to national discussions on disaster prevention.
These include a national media campaign featuring expert articles explaining how geosciences such as hydrology, geology and soil analysis can help reduce flooding.
The institute will also deploy a team of specialists to communities affected by mudslides to study ground conditions and identify measures that could help protect vulnerable settlements in the future.
A public webinar will also be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. GMT via Microsoft Teams. During the virtual event, geoscientists will explain the scientific causes of flooding and landslides and discuss practical solutions for improving disaster preparedness.
Building a more resilient Ghana
GhIG said its goal is to ensure that scientific knowledge plays a greater role in national planning and disaster risk reduction.
“Our objective this July is to channel our professional grief into a constructive contribution to national safety. Understanding the earth is the first step towards living safely upon it,” the institute said.
It added that the initiative is intended to strengthen public understanding of geoscience while supporting evidence-based policies that can help build safer and more resilient communities.
The institute also called on the media, civil society organisations, government agencies and the general public to participate in the discussions and support efforts to develop long-term solutions to Ghana’s recurring flood and landslide challenges.
The Ghana Institute of Geoscientists is the country’s professional body for geoscience practitioners. It promotes research, professional standards and evidence-based policy in areas including geology, hydrology, engineering geology and environmental geoscience to support sustainable national development.
Below is the statement;
