Effects of Ghana’s decentralization program and citizens’ participation in decision-making on service delivery in the Ga west municipality

Abstract

Decentralised system of governance provides structures and legislations which promote community participation in decision-making which in turn affect service delivery and promote local development. This study examined local government structures and how they facilitate citizens’ participation in decision-making regarding service delivery in Ga West Municipality in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. A total of 393 respondents formed the sample; 345 community members, 18 community informants and 30 Assembly members in the Ga West Municipality. Structured interview schedule was used to collect data from community members and questionnaire from Assembly members. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also held. Data were presented using frequency tables, percentages and cross tabulation. Regression analysis was used to examine the relationships among the variables. The study reveals that local government structures were formed but citizens’ involvement in identification of projects, planning, implementation and monitoring of such projects and project maintenance were minimal and their influence on decision-making and service delivery was negligible. There was no regular meeting between Assembly members and communities. Community members were not aware of any formal channels of communication in providing information and feedback. It is therefore recommended that Municipalities should involve citizens in the policy making and implementation process not only because of good governance but also to receive input for increasing the quality of local policies