Climate change and it effects on peace and security in vulnerable regions a case of Tongo field, Kenema district Sierra Leone

The study titled “Impacts of Climate Change on Peace and Security in Vulnerable Regions in Sierra Leone, a case of Tongo Field” Kenema District aimed to assess how climate change affects local stability and livelihoods in the Tongo Field community. The research adopted a cross-sectional design using mixed methods questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions with a sample of 50 respondents selected through stratified random sampling. The majority of participants were low-income earners, predominantly male, and mostly single. Findings revealed that only a quarter of respondents were aware of climate change and its impacts, while 62.5% perceived the rate of climate change in the area as very high. Major contributing factors included fossil fuel burning, deforestation, industrial activities, agriculture, and mining. The key effects of climate change reported were rising temperatures, coastal erosion, erratic rainfall, flooding, food shortages, water scarcity, and droughts. In response, community members adopted coping mechanisms such as new farming and fishing practices, dialogue and negotiation, reliance on humanitarian aid, and migration. About 56.3% of respondents acknowledged challenges in tackling climate change, which included lack of funding and technical expertise, weak policies and enforcement, poor stakeholder coordination, low community engagement, political instability, inadequate research data, and cultural barriers. The study recommended that government strengthen policies and infrastructure, NGOs enhance awareness and pilot adaptation programs, and communities adopt grassroots sustainable practices. It also emphasized collaboration among CSOs, local and international partners to invest in flood-resistant infrastructure and improve water systems. Additionally, education and awareness campaigns through workshops, radio programs, posters, and school clubs were encouraged to promote climate adaptation and mitigation practices, fostering resilience and environmental sustainability in vulnerable communities.