ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT AT THE SUB-DISTRICT LEVEL: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM THE KARAGA DISTRICT OF NORTHERN REGION - GHANA

Abstract

This study explores the participation of the Sub-district structures in local level development in Karaga district, with a view to generating lessons and insights that can guide a more appropriate decentralization framework towards accelerated rural development. The Sub-district structures have been tasked with the responsibility of promoting the process of development at the grassroots level towards the overall development of the district under which they fall. But vital demographic data, list of rateable properties and other information, which should emanate from these substructures for the preparation of district Development plans, are not readily available. The study therefore, looked at how far the Town/Area Councils and Unit Committees in the Karaga District have gone in performing the roles assigned to them, and the challenges they face in performing or in an attempt to perform these roles. Within the framework of action research methodology, mixed-methods were used to triangulate findings and enhance research rigour. Specific methods employed were questionnaires, focus group discussions (FGDs), in-depth interviews, and observation, complemented by context analyses of relevant documents. The study reveals that the Town/Area Councils and Unit Committees have not as yet made any meaningful contribution towards the development of the Karaga District. They have made some efforts to mobilise people in the communities to participate but the level of participation, especially in decision making is still low. Revenue is not being identified and mobilised. The development needs of the communities in the form of projects are not collated by the Town/Area councils and Unit committees, making it difficult to be collated into district development plans. The analysis has revealed that lack of support from the District is a major factor contributing to the ineffectiveness of the Town/ Area Councils and Unit Committees. Revenue items have not been ceded to the sub-structures; they have less access to information from the District assembly, staff is lacking at the Sub-district level; and training and proper orientation have not been provided for them. The study recommendations capacity building for Town/Area council members and Unit Committees; awareness creation and actions towards improving communication; providing motivational packages for the Council members and Unit committees; providing logistics and staff to Town/Area Councils; and improve the mobilization of internally generated funds to augment the statutory funds to address the development needs of the communities.