Towards re-conceptualization of socio-cultural climate change maladaptation in Sub-Saharan Africa

Reconceptualization of socio-cultural climate change maladaptation in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) demands a nuanced understanding of regions diverse social, cultural and environmental contexts. Concerns exist that some climate change adaptation initiatives are harmful to very socio-ecological systems they are meant to support – yielding maladaptation. Among causes of maladaptation is less consideration for place of socio-cultural environment within which people operate. Interplay between traditional practices, socioeconomic disparities and policy interventions has been under-researched. This project seeks to identify root causes and examples of socio-cultural environmental maladaptation to climate change and examines how they manifest across societies. This will unearth patterns of maladaptive behaviour and consequences on local communities. Socio-cultural maladaptation will emphasize importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge systems and community-based approaches in adaptation strategies to foster resilience and mitigate maladaptation risks. Systematic review shall be used to select, categorize, analyse, and review content on socio-cultural climate change maladaptation. This will help identify holistic and participatory approaches that integrate local perspectives, foster adaptive capacity and promote equitable solutions to address complexities of climate change. Findings will bring to fore government-led initiatives that will lead to building resilience, promoting sustainable development and achieving climate justice in the region that is context-specific and culturally appropriate.