Improving participatory water governance in Accra, Ghana

Abstract

Harris and Morinville (2013) explore the role of participatory water governance in informal settlements. Their research focuses on Local Water Boards (LWBs) in Ghanaian Accra, where the impact of the participatory approach on water management practices was assessed via surveys, interviews, and consultations. The study discovers that the LWBs can have a positive impact on such outcomes as community participation, consultation, accountability, and water-price regulation. Nevertheless, the researchers also find limitations to the effectiveness of the LWBs in Accra, including lack of awareness, insufficient accountability, water prices’ affordability, volunteerism, and unequal participation. Harris and Morinville conclude that there is a need for increased consultation and awareness, representation, and affordability of water services to achieve equity in water governance successfully. In the overall context of the research, the findings confirm the importance of community participation in sustainable water management.