Author(s): Saaka Takora, Conrad- J Wuleka Kuuder and Rikiatu Husseini

Abstract: The management of water resources in the Black and White Volta Basins, a critical area within the larger Volta River system in Ghana, faces numerous challenges driven by competing demands, population growth, and climate change. This study explores the key factors affecting stakeholder participation in the governance of these basins, focusing on attitudes towards basin management, stakeholder effectiveness, access to resources, environmental concerns, and conflicts among users. A mixed methods approach was employed, utilizing quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive insights from community members, local leaders, and agency representatives. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method was used to identify the primary drivers of stakeholder engagement. The findings show that participation is boosted by positive attitudes towards sustainable water management and perceptions of stakeholder competence. The study established a complex interplay of attitudes, stakeholder effectiveness, access to resources, environmental concerns, and conflicts among users. Policies should focus on building trust and strengthening the effectiveness of stakeholders groups, particularly local communities, government agencies, and NGOs, through providing capacity-building initiatives to increase leadership and resource mobilization.

Pages: 140-145 | Views: 36 | Downloads: 9

Download Full Article: Click Here