Community participation in managing petroleum revenues in Akyinkyin in the Western Region of Ghana

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.