Abstract

The study adopted a qualitative approach and relied enormously on primary data obtained through interviews and focus group discussions to assess the type of interaction and its effects in the implementation of the REDD+ initiative in two forest districts in Ghana. The country’s involvement in REDD+ began in 2008 and received approval in 2010. Many partners from civil society, private sector, government, communities, and traditional leaders have contributed to its evolution and efforts towards realization of its goals in its pilot projects located in two forest districts in the Western and Ahafo regions, respectively. Both projects are being managed through a collaborative governance arrangement among the Forestry Commission (FC) of Ghana and other public agencies, local farmers, community groups, and interested non-state actors/non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Picking from the literature, this study adopted a framework which combines trust among collaborators, leadership, and social learning for relevant sections of the analysis. Responses were analysed using inductive thematic analysis based on issues that emerged from the observations and data gathered. An appreciable level of interaction between the communities, regulatory agencies, CBO/CSOs, local farming communities and other stakeholders was observed. What seems to engender constant interaction between the groups is the level of trust established among them and the seemingly effective facilitating and coordinating role being played by the Forestry Commission of Ghana.

Key words: Ghana, Forestry Commission of Ghana, REDD+, stakeholder interaction, social learning, sustainable livelihood, environmental resources, collaborative governance.