Abstract:
This study sought to conduct hydro-morphodynamic analysis occurring in the Muni
Pomadze Lagoon. Laboratory analysis was employed to determine heavy metals
(Cadmium, Lead, Iron, Manganese, and Zinc) present in water and fish samples within
the Muni Lagoon. Remotely sensed images were used in modelling encroachment
within the Muni catchment for the period 1990- 2019. Temperature and rainfall data
were acquired from the Ghana Meteorological Agency to investigate climatic variations
and its attendant effects on the catchment. Purposive sampling technique was employed
to select ten (10) respondents to participate in interviews for multi-stakeholder
cooperation and encroachment issues. Content analysis was used to support evidence
gathered from the field. The study revealed that the Muni Lagoon and its tributaries are
polluted with heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Fe, and Mn) comparing their concentrations with
the USEPA and WRC limit. Fishes within the lagoon were found to pose no harm to
consumers as traces of heavy metal were below the FAO/WHO maximum permissible
limit. It was again revealed that there is a high rate of encroachment occurring within
the catchment accompanied by variations in temperature and rainfall. There is lack of
coordination between stakeholders responsible for conserving the Muni Lagoon
catchment making the implementation of regulatory activities difficult. The study
concluded that urban growth has increased anthropogenic pressures within the
catchment that are negatively affecting functioning of the lagoon and its ecological
resources. The study recommended that stakeholders should collaborate to regulate
human activities within the catchment
Description:
A Thesis in the Department of Geography Education,
Faculty of Social Sciences, submitted to the
School of Graduate Studies, in partial fulfilment
of the requirements for the award of the degree of
Master of Philosophy
(Geography Education)
in the University of Education, Winneba.
JUNE, 2020
