Research & Publications
Advancing knowledge on infrastructure systems, energy justice, and climate resilience in Africa.
Overview
The Africa Resilient Communities & Infrastructure Lab conducts research at the intersection of climate change, infrastructure systems, and governance, with a focus on advancing equitable and sustainable outcomes for communities across Africa. Our work integrates academic research with applied, policy-relevant analysis to inform decision-making and support community-centered approaches to infrastructure development.
Current Work
Hydropower Communities and Energy Justice: A case study of the Akosombo Dam in Ghana
This study, now published in Environmental Research: Energy, examined the long-term impacts of large-scale hydropower systems on communities through an energy justice lens. This work explores how infrastructure systems, governance structures, and local livelihoods intersect to shape long-term outcomes.
Beyond Dam Safety: Advancing Flood Mitigation and Community Resilience in Ghana's Lower Volta Basin under a Changing Climate
This study examines the implications of climate change for the operation of the Akosombo Dam and the vulnerability of downstream communities, using the Akosombo Dam as a case study. The study aims to develop policy recommendations to inform policymakers, planners, and local stakeholders in order to promote strategies that enhance resilience, safeguard livelihoods, and ensure sustainable dam operations in the face of growing climate uncertainty.
Research Areas
Energy Justice & Infrastructure Systems
Examining how energy systems are developed, governed, and experienced across different communities.
Sustainable Water & Energy Infrastructure
Exploring integrated approaches to water and energy systems in the context of climate change.
Climate Resilience & Adaptation
Understanding how infrastructure systems can support communities in adapting to environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Governance & Institutional Systems
Analyzing the role of policy, institutions, and decision-making processes in shaping infrastructure outcomes.
Approach
The Lab employs a mixed-methods and case-based approach, combining:
- Policy and document analysis
- Stakeholder engagement and consultation
- Community-informed perspectives
- Comparative and longitudinal analysis
This approach enables a deeper understanding of how infrastructure systems function in practice and how they can be improved to better serve communities.
Publications
Collaboration
As the Lab continues to grow, this page will feature peer-reviewed publications, policy reports, and working papers emerging from ongoing research and collaborations.
The Lab welcomes collaboration with researchers, academic institutions, and policy organizations interested in advancing research on infrastructure, energy systems, and climate resilience.
