Water resource management for socio-economic development. a case study of Pru and Atebubu-Amanten Districts, Ghana
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Date
2011-12-05
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Abstract
Water is life and it is universally acclaimed as the most important natural resource. The end use of water is essential for every inhabitant and for a wide range of economic and informal sector activities
Pollution of water bodies through the use of toxic chemicals by fishermen, farming near and in river beds, higher temperatures and other anthropogenic factors have negative effects on water resources thereby limiting their economic potentials towards sustainable socioeconomic development. There are regulations regarding the sustainable use of water resources in Ghana. However, these regulations are not being adequately adhered to. Given the current trend of population growth and increasing demands both in quantity and quality, the issue of water resource management has become more sensitive than any time previously in the history of Ghana. In view of the effects of climate change on water resources, it is necessary to ensure that water resources are sustainably managed to avoid the adverse effects of climate change. Therefore the research sought to assess the level of application and adherence to water resources regulations for sustainable socio-economic development in the Pru and Atebubu-Amanten districts of Brong Ahafo region.
The study employed case study approach to carry out the research. Data was collected from both primary and secondary sources and was analysed by the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods. Results from the study indicated that, about 86% of the people in the study area derived their livelihoods either directly or indirectly from water resources in the area. The Water Resource Commission is the agency authorised under the Water Resource Act to regulate and control the use of water resources through granting of water rights and water use permits. The major laws that guide the regulation and management of water resources in Ghana are the Water Resource Commission Act, (No 522 of 1996) and the Water Use Regulation, Legislative Instrument (LI 1692 0f 2001).
The granting of Water Use Permit is considered a tool to regulate water abstraction and control pollution of water bodies in Ghana. With emerging water problems, it has become increasingly important that governments develop and implement clear policy priorities and establish enabling framework in the water sector to address under-development, water shortages and pollution, and to allow equitable and efficient access to water.
Description
A Thesis submitted to the School of Graduate Studies Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Development Policy and Planning.