| dc.description.abstract | The effective management of common pool resources such as forest and fisheries is essential in maintaining the livelihoods of people in developing countries especially the rural areas where poverty is highly pervasive. The present study sought to unveil the role of common pool resources management institutions in Ghana by focusing on the Lake Bosomtwe Basin. The study relied on mainstream institutional theory and critical institutionalism to investigate the effectiveness of local management institutions. The aim of the study was mainly to 1) assess whether the design principle framework is applicable to local management institutions for forest and water/fisheries in Lake Bosomtwe Basin; 2) explore how issues of access, representation and accountability affect the poor and vulnerable in the local community; 3) understand the role of chieftaincy in institutional factors of power and how it affects resource management. Following from qualitative research methods for data collection, the study drew on interviews, group discussions and observation to gather information from household heads (farmers and fisher folks), key informants and chain saw operators on the topic.
The findings of the study showed that historically cultural and moral dimension of enforcement and monitoring were vital in natural resource management. It also shows to some extent the role culture and religious beliefs still influence on the actions of various actors in the management of natural resources. However, certain weaknesses in the management institutions were brought to bear. It became known that strong kingship ties and prevailing local social network system negated the importance of the enforcement of rules and regulations governing the management of commons. Such social networks among actors also breeds corruption especially in situations involving forest guards, famers and chain saw operators. There was lack of collaboration between the local chiefs and government officials at the district assembly level on effective management strategies. The local people also lacked access to information and representation on issues relating to payment of forest royalties, benefits and negotiations. The study also revealed that institutional factors such as power and culture of respect or obedience to chiefs disempowered local people access to benefits and accountability. The study also called for strong collaboration between the districts officials, local people and traditional councils on issues relating to access to resource
and payment of benefits to affected individuals or groups. | nb_NO |
