Public Nature Conservation Policy Versus Community Interests: A Study of the Mole National Park

Abstract

Public policy impact analysis entails systematic, meticulous and objective evaluation of cause-effect relationships. The study presents a historical account of the genesis, processes and impacts of public nature conservation policy practices at Mole National Park (MNP) on peripheral communities. It tries to understand underlying motives for external resistance and outright arson against the Park and discern cause-effect relationships between local communities and MNP. Data were elicited from three sub-samples, comprising 316 displaced and 264 non-evictees randomly selected from nearby villages. The second, was 38 randomly and four purposively chosen public officials of MNP and the West Gonja District Assembly. The third comprised 98 accidental and purposively selected transient visitors to the Park. Results showed negligible involvement of the local people in the decision to create the MNP. Comparison of socio-economic variables showed little or no differences between displaced and non-evicted communities regarding effects of the MNP on community social communities. Thirdly, the Park has had both intended and spillover effects with communities closest to it more affected. Fourthly, harassment by park guards and loss of farmlands without compensation were the main complaints of villagers. Fifthly, community participation in the management and activities of the Park is low. Finally, management must act to exploit MNP’s potential for increased tourist arrivals and dollars receipts.