The future of participatory planning in Ghana: a preliminary analysis

Abstract

There is no disagreement on the centrality of participatory planning in devolution and good governance in any local government system. It is even more critical in the case of African’s quest for vibrant local governments and rapid development in their communities. This paper mainly sets out to critically evaluate communities’ inputs into district development planning in Ghana and suggests ways by which participatory planning could be entrenched to promote peace, security and development in District Assemblies. As a product of an extensive critical review of literature on Ghana’s planning systems, it argues for a partnership between District Planning Coordinating Units and sub-structures in each district, to make planning truly participatory and ensure development in peace and security.