Traditional authorities and governance: A case study of Komenda traditional area

Abstract

Despite the obvious differences between the formal government system and the traditional system of governance, there is the growing awareness that good governance at the local level can only be achieved when traditional rulers are incorporated into the formal system of governance. This study examines the predominant traditional authority systems in the Komenda Traditional Area in Ghana. The study sets out to assess the roles and relevance of these traditional authorities in relation to the formal government system. Data used for analysis was obtained through qualitative methods like interviews and focus group discussions. The sampling procedure was generally purposive for traditional authorities and assembly persons, while simple random sampling was employed for heads of households. The research design was partly descriptive, explorative and cross-sectional. The study found that traditional authorities play several roles at the local level. These roles were identified as settling disputes and managing conflict, soliciting and initiating development projects as well as mobilising people for development. The study also found out that traditional authorities are still relevant in local governance. The study recommends the involvement of chiefs in the planning, implementation and execution of projects in their various communities as a way of integrating the chieftaincy institution into the formal governance system to enhance development.