Abstract:
The oil sector contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), provides
jobs and community development in Ghana. In June, 2007 when oil was
discovered on the Jubilee fields in Ghana, it brought jubilation to the
populace, especially the oil producing western region as the nation was to
generate an extra source of revenue for the country’s growth agenda.
Despite the immense contribution of oil revenues, community members
have been relegated towards contributing to petroleum revenue
management in Ghana. The study therefore examined community
participation in managing petroleum revenues in Akyinkyin in the western
region. The research employed both quantitative and qualitative designs.
The simple random and purposive sampling method was used in selecting
respondents. Questionnaire and focus group discussion guide was the main
data collection instrument and a sample size of 120 respondents was used.
Frequencies, tables, percentages and themes were also used to present the
data. The research found that respondents have adequate knowledge on
community participation. It was also identified that community members
are not involved in managing petroleum revenues and that the local people
do not even have any representation on the board of governance in charge
of petroleum revenue management. It is therefore recommended that
government should implement appropriate engagement techniques at
different stages in the management of petroleum activities in order to
avoid conflict.
