Integrating Local Knowledge and Community Practices for Flood Resilience in the Volta Basin

Flooding, exacerbated by climate change, urbanization, and poor land-use practices, is a growing challenge for rural households in the Volta Basin. This study examines the effectiveness of flood management practices in improving household resilience in Benin and Togo. Using a mixed-methods approach, including focus group discussions, individual interviews, and structural equation modeling, we analyze three categories of flood management practices: Endogenous Knowledge-Based Practices (EKPs), Community Engagement-Based Practices (CEPs), and Agricultural Technology-Based Practices (ATPs). The results show significant contributions from CEPs to resilience and highlight the role of social cohesion and collective action. EKPs also have a positive impact, reflecting the importance of local knowledge, especially in Benin. However, the adoption of ATPs varies, with greater effectiveness observed in Togo than in Benin. Factors such as age, gender, education, and access to advisory services influence the acceptability and effectiveness of these practices. The findings highlight the need for tailored, integrative interventions that combine traditional knowledge and community participation with modern technologies to strengthen resilience in flood-prone communities. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers and development practitioners who aim to improve disaster risk reduction and climate resilience strategies in the Volta Basin.