Community-Based Organizations’ Role in Ghanaian Agriculture Sector Development: The Case of Ashanti Region

Abstract

Agriculture is not only the backbone of Ghanaian economy but also conducive to development through livelihood creation and promotion of cooperation among people, particularly those living in the rural communities. CBOs are seen to be indigenous organizations whose roles influence agricultural sector development. Previous studies have shown that many people either unaware or have wrong perception on CBOs’ level of performance in achieving agriculture development in Ghana and Ashanti region to be specific. The study therefore examined CBOs’ roles in agricultural sector development. Thematic analysis was done from the primary data gathered through semi-structured interview, focus group discussions and non-participant observations. It was discovered that CBOs play a pivotal role in information dissemination, education and training, resource mobilization, production and marketing of goods to enhance Ghanaian agriculture sector development. They are however constrained with numerous challenges. The study recommends that NGOs and other stakeholders should also be encouraged to liaise with CBOs and support them to achieve their objectives of ensuring agriculture sector development. Keywords: Community-Based Organizations, Roles, Agriculture Sector Development DOI: 10.7176/JCSD/57-02 Publication date: March 31 st 2020