COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN THE PLANNING PROCESS OF THE BUI DAM PROJECT IN MID -WEST GHANA

Abstract

This study is an examination of how would-be-affected communities have participated in the planning process of Bui Dam Project. The study adopted case study approach and focused on the design of Bui Dam Project from the consultant which was adopted by the construction firm. The communities studied are; Gyaamah, Bongase and Bui camp/village for the evaluation of communities that have been directly affected. Data collection techniques such as, focus group discussions, household questionnaire and in-depth interview for institutions and organisations were used. They were analysed by the use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPS) and qualitative techniques method was also employed as well. The main findings of the study are that; communities were not adequately involved in the decision- making process of the Bui Dam Project, communities concerns were not adequately pursued, compensation have delayed and issues involving land has not been adequately resolve so far, minority groups have not adequately participated in the planning process and finally the project could be a potential source of conflict and such conflict could emanate between communities and Bui Power Authority and other institutional relationships with the authority. The study recommended that community participation should be pursued, process of compensation should be accelerated, title documents should be given to affected households and communities and improvement in institutional collaboration. The study further recommended that communities need to be kept informed about the progress of the Dam and lay down procedure for resolving conflict made explicit, legal enforcement of standards and finally, gender mainstreaming should be taking seriously in all aspect of the project.