Strengthening local autonomy in development: composite budgeting, expenditure planning and implementation in Nanumba South district, Ghana

Main Article Content

Wisdom N-yilyari
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3277-2609
Maxwell Okrah
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5518-4693
Fauster Agbenyo
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0455-4073

Abstract

Including local citizens in decision-making about the use of local resources is crucial to improving the generation of locally raised funds. This study illustrates the positive effects of composite budgeting – a participatory process – in meeting local people’s development interest and needs, and in promoting expenditure autonomy. Using a case study approach and drawing on both qualitative and quantitative data, the study found that Ghana’s system of district assemblies – which are largely made up of elected members – appears to be relatively successful in delivering the capacity and independence required to make funding decisions that benefit local people and the development of their area. The paper suggests a link between citizens’ confidence in the working of their assembly and their willingness to contribute to locally generated funds.

Article Details

How to Cite
N-yilyari, W., Okrah, M., & Agbenyo, F. (2024). Strengthening local autonomy in development: composite budgeting, expenditure planning and implementation in Nanumba South district, Ghana. Commonwealth Journal of Local Governance, (29), 41-58. https://doi.org/10.5130/cjlg.vi29.8431
Section
Research and Evaluation (peer-reviewed)
Author Biographies

Maxwell Okrah, Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies

Department of Planning

Senior Lecturer

Fauster Agbenyo, Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies

Department of Planning

Head of Department

Senior Lecturer