The Nexus between Good Governance and Citizens' Participation in Local Governance: Insights from Afrobarometer Round 7

Abstract

Good governance has been advocated as the ideal which governments should embrace. The concept relates to a governance system that  is transparent, accountable, effective and participatory. This study investigated the relationship between these tenets of good  governance and citizens’ participation in local governance in Ghana. The study utilized data from the Afro-barometer survey for Ghana.  The study modestly attempted to provide an empirical and theoretical assessment of the socio-economic and attitudinal characteristics of  individuals, as well as the institutional environment that determine citizens’ participation in local governance. The results revealed  that, individual demographic factors, such as age, gender, and education, were the significant determinants of citizens’ engagement in  local governance in Ghana. The results also suggested that, attitudinal factors, such as interest in political activities, membership of  associations; and institutional factors, such as local government transparency and improved service delivery, greatly impacted and  influenced citizens’ participation in local governance. The findings presented vital practical implications for Ghana’s public sector to  implement standards that could increase citizens’ participation in local governance. They also offered impetus to create an environment  in Ghana that advocates for the principles of good governance.