Growing up in West Africa, Munkaila Lambongang, a PhD student in the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, has witnessed firsthand the paradox of abundant natural resources and persistent food insecurity. Many communities in his home country of Ghana rely on agriculture, yet climate change characterized by severe drought, poor infrastructure and limited access to modern farming techniques has thwarted efforts by the government and farmers in ensuring food security there.

That paradox sparked Lambongang’s interest in natural resource economics and sustainable agricultural policies, a field of study where he hopes to create efficient, climate-resilient food systems that will benefit both farmers and consumers.

“I chose to explore the influence of household structure on climate resilience because, despite its significance for policy, it remains an understudied area in research. Effective climate adaptation strategies require resources for successful implementation,” Lambongang said.

“Since different family structures provide varying support mechanisms, it is crucial to examine how household decision-making shapes adaptation to climate change and its impact on food security. Understanding these dynamics will help inform targeted policies that enhance resilience and food security in vulnerable communities”

Advised by WVU professor Ana Claudia Sant’Anna, in the School of Community and Economic Development, Lambongang submitted his research proposal titled “Polygyny as an Agricultural Household Climate Resilience Strategy,” which investigates how differences between polygynous and monogamous households influence their ability to adapt to climate shocks, such as droughts.

It also examines how the unique resource-sharing dynamics within these households can serve as mechanisms for building climate resilience. This research is particularly relevant as policymakers, researchers and industry leaders seek data-driven solutions to pressing global challenges and has significant implications for public policy, particularly in addressing issues related to food security, climate change resilience and economic stability.

This submission earned him a nationally competitive award of $2,000 from the Chester O. McCorkle, Jr., Special Purpose Fund by the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, an organisation that has supported graduate students who research economic topics related to agriculture with this award since 2005.

Lambongang is the first student from West Virginia University to earn the award.

"This recognition validates the importance of my research and its potential to influence policy decisions in the areas of food security and economic development,” Lambongang said.

“WVU has provided me with an exceptional academic environment, top-tier mentorship, and access to world-class research facilities. My work with Dr. Sant’ Anna has been instrumental in strengthening my research capabilities. While WVU offers an outstanding platform for graduate students to excel, my advisor’s guidance has been invaluable in developing my research skills and ultimately securing this award.”

Lambongang did not expect to find himself in this field. His ambition was to be a chemist; however, coming from a farming community in the Bunkpurugu/Nakpanduri district in the North East region of Ghana, and having realized the critical role economics plays in shaping agriculture, food security and climate policy, he was drawn to target agricultural economics. 

“Initially, I was drawn to economics for its ability to explain human behavior and decision-making; however, as I delved deeper, I became increasingly interested in how climate variability impacts smallholder farmers, limiting their ability to plan, access credit and secure stable incomes. This realization shifted my focus toward developing sustainable economic solutions to agricultural and environmental challenges,” Lambongang said.

His journey was marked by its own challenges.

Similar to the story of many children born in rural African communities, Lambongang grew up with his mother in the village without access to electricity for his studies for the entire level of his primary education until his senior brother sent him to the northern region, Tamale, to continue with his junior high education. Lambongang lost his brother when he was writing the proposal for the award and preparing for exams.

“My journey has been driven by a deep passion for economic development and climate resilience. Coming from Ghana, where agriculture is both a vital livelihood and a persistent challenge, I have always been motivated to find solutions that empower farmers, enhance productivity, and promote sustainable policies that improve well-being while protecting the environment.”