Database provides link between rural groups and policy makers. Validated RNRRS Output.

Abstract

This is one of 280 summaries describing key outputs from the projects run by DFID's 10-year Renewable Natural Resources Research Strategy (RNRRS) programmes.

Summary for Project title: R8258: Informing the policy process: decentralisation and environmental democracy in Ghana.

A district-based information system in Ghana is opening up the policy process to debate, dialogue and consensus building. Previously, rural communities had often been indifferent to policies, meaning they were often not put into practice. The new system is a simple, participatory geographic information system (GIS). Its key features build on the local knowledge of the community, to collect data on natural resources and livelihood activities. Local networks of producers are encouraged to develop and state their demands for policy change and for information, and to organise platforms to put these demands to policy makers. The system is in use at the North Kintampo district assembly. The district agricultural department is also interested in using the method to develop its own districtwide surveys.

The CD has the following information for this output: Description, Validation, Current Situation, Current Promotion, Impacts On Poverty, Environmental Impact. Attached PDF (10 pp.) taken from the CD.

Citation

NRSP19, New technologies, new processes, new policies: tried-and-tested and ready-to-use results from DFID-funded research, Research Into Use Programme, Aylesford, Kent, UK, ISBN 978-0-9552595-6-2, p 116.

Published 1 January 2007