One Nation, Two Planning Systems? Spatial Planning and Multi-Level Policy Integration in Ghana: Mechanisms, Challenges and the Way Forward

• DOI: 10.1007/s12132-015-9269-1
• Publication Date: 2015-11-13T17:44:13Z
• Authors: Ransford A. Achea...; Alhassan Ibrahim
• Keywords: Spatial Planning; Integrated business planning; Restructuring; Business system planning; System Integration

Effective integration across policy domains and between spatial scales is indispensable in dealing with the inherently complex process of formulation implementation at all levels. In this paper, we examine key features Ghana's planning system focusing on mechanisms challenges practice. We show that a combination path dependence recent reforms has inevitably created two distinctly separate systems: an established Development Planning System newly instituted Spatial System. Under notion 'spatial' being distinctively from 'socio-economic' planning, these systems deploy institutional legal arrangements as well instruments to accomplish task planning. Within context, ensure effective were found be weak ineffective. Moreover, absence tradition strategic regional culture partnerships among local authorities, lack appropriate sustainable sources finance duplicitous functions barriers within new concept hierarchical argue paradigm integrated under unified urgently needed pre-condition for multi-level integration. suggest some forms restructuring would necessary establish Finally, recommend use legally binding institutionalize enforce alliance governments cross-cutting matters.