Local institutions and natural resource management in the South Tongu district of Ghana: A case study

Abstract

This paper draws on secondary and primary data derived from a field survey undertaken in Torsukpo and Agbogbla communities in the South Tongu District of Ghana to discuss possibilities of enhancing the roles of local institutions in resource management. Key issues addressed in the paper include (i) limitations which share cropping (abunu-abusa) as a local social institutional arrangement places on tenant farmers and (ii) the role of the District Assembly with specific reference to policy provisions placed at its disposal that could be used to formulate co-operative strategies that may help mobilize and empower the local people for effective natural resources management. To complement efforts in this direction, the paper also highlights some possible ways in which NGOs could play more effective roles in facilitating development process in the district.