Indigenous Knowledge and Climate Adaptation in Northern Ghana
Backgrounder No. 48
Hanson Nyantakyi-Frimpong
January 9, 2013

With climate change constraining agricultural productivity in Northern Ghana, adaptation policies could better incorporate sources of indigenous knowledge to ensure programs are cost-effective, participatory and sustainable.

#Climate Change
Identity, Democracy and Internally Displaced Persons in Kenya
Backgrounder No. 47
Prisca Kamungi
January 7, 2013

Contrary to the belief that democratic elections promote greater inclusion, Kenya’s increasingly competitive political system has also been a source of exclusion for groups perceived not to ‘belong’ to certain areas.

#Conflict Resolution
Destructive Storms, Dormant Policies: Cyclones and Food Security in Madagascar
Backgrounder No. 46
Ashley Clayton
November 29, 2012

Madagascar is hit by an average of 3 to 4 cyclones per year — among the highest rates in Africa. These violent storms compromise the country’s already-tenuous food security and economic growth, while the country’s 2009 political crisis stalled policies to mitigate the impact of cyclones and other natural disasters.

#Conflict Resolution
Toward a Regional Solution for Rwanda’s Returning Refugees
Backgrounder No. 45
Izabela Steflja
November 22, 2012

Since the 1950s, conflicts between Hutus and Tutsis in Rwanda have resulted in large flows of forced migration throughout East Africa. Understanding differences among Rwandan refugees groups, however, is essential for developing effective management, integration and repatriation strategies.

#Conflict Resolution
Ghana’s Offshore Oil: Resource Curse or Blessing?
Backgrounder No. 44
Matthew Mitchell
November 15, 2012

Though many African countries have been challenged by the ‘resource curse,’ Ghana’s history of good governance and strong institutions are signals it can effectively manage newfound oil reserves. Stakeholders still need to do more, however, to ensure the remaining gaps surrounding resources management are addressed.

#Energy