ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of risk factors leading to schedule and cost overrun in the delivery of public construction projects within the Metropolitan, Municipal and the District Assemblies. A study in three MMDA’s.

Construction industry is a very important industry for the economic development of the country. However, this industry has been facing serious problems i.e. failure to complete projects within stipulated time and cost and abandoning of projects which always drain public funds to waste. This is one of the critical issues faced by the metropolitan, the municipal and the district assemblies in Ghana. Hence, the reason for evaluating the risk factors that cause schedule and cost overruns in the delivery of public sector construction works within these MMDA‟S in Ghana and to recommend measures that must be put in place to mitigate or reduce this problem. A total of 34 factors were identified from previous studies. The data collections were carried out using structured questionnaire survey. Nominal group technique was used to attach probabilities to determine the level of occurrence and severity of impact using the risk matrix. The evaluated risks were categorised into high, medium and low risks. This study found that there were 18 high risk factors and 7 medium and low risk factors. The key recommendation advanced by the research due to the agreeability of the reviewed mitigation variables are; The MMDA‟s must ensure prompt payment of any work done by the contractors; planned projects to be executed must be sizeable enough to meet the available budget allocation; The MMDA‟s must ensure that before any tendering advertisement is done, all design details are completed to enable accurate extraction of quantities and proper view of the design proposal; monitoring and evaluation of the work is important, this will enable the contractors to stay within the scope of the work and finally, contractors must not be awarded contracts based on political grounds, but their capabilities to perform the contract must be ascertained.

Source: KNUST
An evaluation of rural lending: a case of Bonzali Rural Bank limited in Northern Ghana

Undoubtedly, financial services, savings and credit services to support the Socio economic conditions of rural people are increasingly being recognized. Rural micro finance interventions can make capital available and raise the income of the rural entrepreneurs. This could enable them invest in productive activities and expand their existing businesses. It may often be more effective to link the rural people up with established banks. The study evaluates the sustainability, the outreach and the impact registered by rural micro finance schemes using the Bonzali Rural Bank credit with education programme, which is one of the oldest microfinance schemes in the Northern Region of Ghana as a case study. Data was gathered from primary and secondary sources. The existing literature on microfinancing, the management of Bonzali Rural Bank and the beneficiary clients served as useful sources to that effect. Using amount of savings, repayment rates, loan utilization and operating self-sufficiency as proxies for self-sustainability. Also, number of female clients, and average loan balance are used as proxies for total client outreach. Equally, the proxies used for the impact assessment are assets ownership, access to health care and enhanced access to education of the dependants of the beneficiary clients. The Z- Normal Distribution and Chi- Square were used in the hypotheses testing. On the basis of the available data, the results indicated among others that Bonzali Rural Bank is performing well in its rural micro finance in terms of sustainability of the programme, total client outreach and the socio-economic impact registered. However it was noticed that the bank has poor operating self- sufficiency (OSS) as compared to its peers in the Northern sector. On the basis of other sustainability indicators, it concludes that, over time this ratio will be improved. The study recommended that it might be more appropriate and effective if the programme could be merged with the normal commercial banking wing of the bank since the clients of Credit With Education programme share the same socio-economic characteristics and it also has adequate data management systems to track performance and customer details. Bonzali Rural Bank should do well to increase the individual loan size so as to improve the average loan size; improve on the operating self-sufficiency by increasing its operating returns and reducing operating cost; the need to account for education services which could put the performance of Bonzali Rural Bank into proper perspective and the institution should establish a well-defined Management Information System that can facilitate reporting, monitoring and evaluation. The stakeholders should make readily available market for the client's products and services to maximize their sales and returns; similar rural banking model can be used for irrigation based farming activities to increase agricultural food production.

Source: KNUST
An evaluation of rural development strategies in the Builsa North District of Ghana

This research emphasizes the role of public policy in rural development, at the local level. It appraises the rural development strategies in the Builsa North District of Ghana. The study was premised on the claim that despite national and local development efforts, rural areas of the District have not seen significant development. Thus, the central hypothesis underlying this text is that “the rural development strategies in the Builsa North District of Ghana have failed to induce significant positive rural development”. More specifically, the Builsa North District is perceived to be characterized by low agricultural productivity, poor infrastructure, less developed enterprises and inadequate social protection interventions. These issues are of significant implication for development policy and are worth investigating in studies. Subsequently, this study appraised the Builsa North District’s agricultural, infrastructural and enterprises development strategy as well as social protection interventions implemented. The evaluation studies research approach and the case study design were used for addressing the research questions. The study employed in-depth interviews and structured questionnaires as data collection methods. A likert scale-type technique was also used to rate rural people’s perception of the effect of development interventions. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics technique. The study showed that three-quarters (74.7%) of beneficiaries were not satisfied with the REP’s support for enterprise development, 61.2% were not satisfied with the NRGP’s support for agricultural development, 51.7 percent and 78.4 percent were not satisfied the GSOP’s support for social protection and infrastructural development respectively. It was found out that 79.1 percent of respondents perceive lack of infrastructure, lack of jobs and low agricultural output as the main causes of rural underdevelopment in the Builsa North District. The study also revealed that lack of administrative capacity has hindered the efficacy of rural development programmes in the District. It was established that the implementation process of programmes faced inadequate financial commitment on the part of the District Assembly to support implementing project unit in its operation, and the challenge of targeting intervention. The study recommends that rural development policy must prioritize infrastructural development, enterprises development and social protection interventions (integrated rural development strategy). There is the need for a clear-cut national rural development policy to set out the guiding principles and goals to address the development problems in rural areas.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of Road Users’ Satisfaction of George Walker Bush Highway, Ghana.

The road infrastructure network in Ghana has received a massive growth over the years. Despite the efforts by the Government of Ghana to improve road infrastructure and services, road related problems still occur every now and then. There is growing recognition, of the need to understand road user needs and concerns to deliver quality road services effectively and efficiently. The statement of the problem gives an indication that there are road users’ satisfaction challenges on the George Walker Bush Highway in spite of the huge project investment made by the Government of Ghana and the Millennium Challenge Cooperation. Thus, the aim of the research is to evaluate the level of satisfaction of road users with the George Walker Bush (GWB) Highway. Questionnaire surveys was conducted on motorists and pedestrians. The views of both motorists and pedestrians with respect to the technical and functional service quality dimensions were assessed with a modified SERVQUAL instrument. Several implications regarding the satisfaction of road users of the GWB-highway were drawn from the findings of the research. The scores for all the quality dimensions measured indicated negative gaps which imply the expectations of road users of the GWB-highway exceeded their initial perceptions with the quality dimensions. The overall satisfaction rates show that pedestrians were averagely more satisfied with the service dimensions measured than motorists with an average mean scores of 3.87 and 2.94 respectively. The results of the regression analysis, show that road surface conditions and pedestrians’ safety are the significant service quality dimensions that influence the satisfaction of road users. The findings of this study have empirically affirmed that, the service quality dimensions that influence the satisfaction of road users cannot be ignored or underrated in road infrastructure delivery. It further informs the road agencies and operators of the need to give due attention to satisfaction of road users during design and construction stages. Keywords: road users’ satisfaction, road agencies, road infrastructure, service quality dimensions.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of service quality in the Ghanaian travel and tourism industry: A case study of Focusline Travel and Tours Limited.

This study was to examine the impact of service quality in the Ghanaian travel and tourism industry using Focusline Travel and Tour Ltd – Kumasi as the test Case. The study aimed at identifying how service quality has impacted positively in the travel and tour industry. The use of simple random and purposive sampling techniques was used in collecting the data. The use of research questionnaire and interviews were employed to achieve the objectives of the research. It was found that most of the respondents rated good customer care as the most critical factor for a successful service quality delivery. It was recommended that Focusline should consider everything from the appearance of the office to the clerk’s willingness to listen and answer questions.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of shale gas reservoirs in complex structural enclosures: A case study from Patala Formation in the Kohat-Potwar Plateau, Pakistan

Breakthroughs in shale gas exploration and production technology in China point to a possible solution to Pakistan’s current energy crises. In this study, we evaluate the shale gas prospects in the Kohat-Potwar Plateau of Pakistan by establishing an integrated approach involving the analysis of fundamental elastic and petrophysical properties, Rock-Eval pyrolysis, and the sealing mechanism of shale. Detailed geochemical and petrophysical evaluation of the Patala Formation in the Kohat-Potwar Plateau indicates the good potential for shale gas with the following characteristics similar to the Longmaxi shale of Sichuan Basin China, i.e., (i) complex structural types sandwiched by tight limestone strata with low porosity (less than 3%), ultra-low permeability, high density, and large thickness which provides strong sealing capacity for gas preservation and enrichment; (ii) multiphase tectonic evolution of Patala Formation allowed various slippage processes to develop fractures and enhance the porosity and permeability; (iii) high organic matter content and thermal maturation stage (TOC >2%, 416–445 ◦C); (iv) high brittle minerals content (e.g., calcite and dolomite > 40%); and (v) large formation thickness (>30 m) at shallow burial depth < 2500 m. This study emphasizes the critical role of the sealing mechanism in shale gas reservoirs. Furthermore, the results suggest that the evaluation and development of shale gas potential using petrophysical and geochemical analysis may be inadequate. Further scrutiny of the roof and floor of reservoirs’ efficient sealing capacities is essential to understand the extent of shale gas preservation and enrichment. The study results provide valuable insights for identifying the sweet spots and preservation condition of shale gas in the Kohat-Potwar Plateau of Pakistan.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of six tomato (lycopersicon esculentum mill) cultivars for their fresh market and processing qualities

Three experiments were conducted on the experimental plots of the Department of Horticulture, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology between December 1998 and May 2000, during the 1998/99 dry season, 1099 wet season and the 1999/2000 dry season to study the fresh market and processing qualities of six tomato varieties. The varieties were NR1, NR2, NR5, NR6, NR44 and NR46. Data were collected on the vegetative and reproductive growth parameters, fruit qualities, yield and fruit shelf-life. The vegetative growth characteristics studied included, plant height, number of branches per plant and the growth habits of the plants. Days to flowering, number of flowers and fruits on first truss, number of fruits per plant and the number of days to first harvest were also studied. Physical fruit characteristics such as fruit size, shape colour and fruit firmness were studied. The fruits were analysed in the laboratory for pH, total soluble solids, titratable acidity and ascorbic acid contents. Yield and shelf-life performances of the varieties were also studied. The results revealed that NR1 and NR6 were determinate varieties; while the remaining varieties were semi-determinate. Fruit yield for the varieties varied, with an increase from a low of 198.2 kg/ha for NR6 during the 1998/99 dry season trial to a highest of 21105.1 kg/ha by NR44 in the 1999/2000 dry season trial. NR6 and NR44 stored longest (26.0 days) during the 1999/2000 trial under room condition. Total soluble solids, titratable acidity, flesh, seed and skin contents of the varieties indicated that the varieties have desirable qualities for processing only during the dry season. Fruit size, average fruit weight, fruit colour, shelf life and percentage marketable fruit values also showed that the varieties were equally suitable for the fresh market use.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of some causes and prevention of accidents associated with Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) within Asankrangwa and Kenyasi Environs, Ghana

Sound health, safety and environmental management standards require hazard identification and risk assessments in order to institute measures to prevent accidents. In recent times, many accidents have been reported in some artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) areas in Ghana, which have resulted in loss of lives. Since most people are involved in these mining operations for sustenance, it is essential to identify the potential causes of these accidents and prescribe solutions thereof. Ten (10) ASM sites in the Asankrangwa and Kenyasi areas were selected for this study. Field studies and observations methods were employed to identify potential risks associated with their operations and preventive measures recommended. It was observed that alluvial and deep mining techniques were mostly used by the ASM operators. Hard grounds are blasted and excavated using either rudimentary materials or sophisticated equipment. The following steps are employed in the beneficiation process namely: crushing and milling, sluicing, panning and then mercury amalgamation and finally, roasting to recover the gold. Each of the processing stages has a certain degree of risk associated with it. Noise levels and silica dust levels were also monitored to determine the extent of exposure. Land use was also monitored to check the extent of land degradation. The risks were assessed using the semi-quantitative risk assessment tool and the necessary risk control actions applied. Seven hazard types were identified during the initial risk assessment using a 5x5 risk matrix representing HIGH to EXTREME risk significance range of (11-17) to (18-25) respectively. After inception of recommended controls, all the seven hazard types were reduced to MEDIUM and LOW risk significance range of (6-10) and (1-5) respectively. Fifty percent (50%) of the study sites showed HIGH fatality rates with the potential fundamental causes of accidents determined as: Use of explosives > Surface excavation > shaft sinking > treatment and processing > Working underground > Working in poorly consolidated terrains > Making tunnels. The noise and silica dust levels were all above the recommended occupational exposure limit and lands are also degrading rapidly. Risk assessment is recommended as necessary requirement for starting ASM ventures.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of soil quality and heavy metals in Manihot esculenta and Musa paradisiaca grown on reclaimed mined lands in the Bogoso/Prestea area, Ghana

The study was conducted at Golden Star Bogoso/Prestea Ltd. catchment to evaluate soil quality and heavy metals in cassava and plantain grown on reclaimed mined lands. Soil and crop samples were collected from four reclaimed sites of ages 1, 5, 12 and 15 years and two reference sites. The samples were analysed for physico-chemical parameters (pH, conductivity, organic matter, organic carbon, nitrate, phosphate, sulphate, chloride, exchangeable bases) and heavy metals (Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb, and Hg) using standard methods. It was observed that age of reclamation significantly influenced chloride, conductivity, exchangeable base, nitrate and soil pH. Sulphate was highest (23.6 mg/kg) in the 5 year site and least (5.5 mg/kg) in the 12 year site. Conductivity and chloride were observed to be lowest (95.0 μS/cm and 3.9 mg/kg) in the 1 year site while the reference site recorded the highest of (333.3 μS/cm and 10.3 mg/kg) respectively. Exchangeable bases ranged from 18.8 - 1.6 meq/100g for the 12 year and 1 year site respectively. The older reclaimed sites both recorded the highest pH of 7.3. Arsenic content ranged from 5.1 - 21.4 mg/kg for the 12 and 15 year sites respectively. The reference site registered the highest cadmium of 3.5 mg/kg, while copper ranged from 53.7 – 83.9 mg/kg for the sites. Zinc and manganese levels of 331.7 mg/kg and 256.5 mg/kg were highest in the 12 year and 15 year sites respectively. Heavy metals in crops were within maximum WHO/FAO permissible threshold except iron (24.5-25.8 mg/kg). Arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury were not detected.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of some microbial inoculants and micronutrient fertilizers on the performance of soybean and maize in the northern savannah zones of Ghana

Three on - station trials were conducted at the experimental fields of CSIR - Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (SARI), to ascertain and confirm the effectiveness of some commercial microbial inoculants and micronutrient fertilizers for improvement of soybean and maize productivity in the Guinea and Sudan savannah agro - ecological zones of Ghana. Teprosyn Mo and Legumefix products were used as treatments for the soybean trial while Teprosyn Zn/P and Eco - T were used for the maize trial. All the treatments were laid out in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications each. A significant (P < 0.05) response to Legumefix on soybean nodule dry weight was observed in Kpongu and Manga but not Nyankpala. None of the treatments for soybean and maize significantly (P < 0.05) increased shoot dry matter. Teprosyn Mo + Legumefix, Legumefix and Teprosyn Mo increased soybean grain yield by 205.62%, 135.54% and 110.24% respectively over the control in Manga. In Nyankpala, the application of Legumefix and Teprosyn Mo + Legumefix increased soybean grain yield significantly by 22.43% and 42.10% respectively relative to the control while no significant response was observed among treatments on soybean grain yield in Kpongu. The combined application of Teprosyn Mo + Legumefix was the most profitable (VCR = 2.65) among the treatments in Manga. Teprosyn Zn/P, Eco - T and Teprosyn Zn/P + Eco - T treatments had no significant (P < 0.05) effect on plant height, yield and N and P nutrient uptake of maize in all the study locations. However, the return on investments from the products used for maize showed that Eco - T and Teprosyn Zn/P + Eco - T were the most profitable (VCR > 2) in both Manga and Nyankpala.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation Of Some New Tomato And Pepper Varieties Proposed For Release

Research work carried out on tomato and pepper breeding at the Horticulture Improvement Division of the CSIR-Crops Research Institute, Kwadaso-Kumasi, resulted in some new selected varieties intended to be released into the market. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physicochemical quality of the new three tomato and five pepper varieties proposed for release for food processing. Fruit selection was based on the fruit characteristics- shape, surface, size and colour. The physicochemical properties (Brix, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, protein, carbohydrates and beta-carotene) were determined using standard procedures. The tomato samples had high levels of ascorbic acid (26-30 mg/100g) with the highest recorded in P002. The varieties however had similar firmness (4.6-4.9 N), Brix (6.3-6.8%), beta-carotene (1.44-2.23 mg/100g), protein (0.35-0.75%), carbohydrates (3.32-3.75%) and energy content (15.45-17.04 kCal/100g). The pepper samples had ascorbic acid (18.05-35.34 mg/100g), beta-carotene (0.002-1.2 mg/100g), protein (0.35-0.75%), carbohydrates (11.71-15.29%) and energy contents (15.45-68 kCal/100g). The findings suggest that the tomato varieties proposed for release had considerable physicochemical characteristics that would be suitable for processing into tomato sauce, paste, puree and ketchup. The pepper cultivars CRI 173 and JMS4 had considerable qualities and are recommended for further research and processing.

Source: KNUST
Evaluation of Some Quality Attributes of Cassava Accessions at Varying Maturity

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a root crop which has been used widely in the production of many products and also as an important source of starch on a global proportion. The aim of this work was to investigate the characteristics of starch from new cassava accessions at different stages of maturity. Three new cassava accessions ( Abrabopa, Amansen and Duadekpakpa) were harvested at four consecutive months (from April – July 2017; 7-10th month) after planting. Starch was extracted from these cassava accessions using the conventional method of starch extraction and their yield calculated. The amylose content and presence were determined by means of spectrophotometry whereas pasting properties of the starches were analyzed using Rapid Visco Analyzer. Average starch yield ranged from 18-29% and was at its highest yield in the 10th month for all the accessions studied. There were no significant differences (p >0.05) in the peak viscosity, final viscosity, peak time and pasting temperature but significant difference was recorded for setback, trough and breakdown of the starch samples. The amylose (14-25%) and amylopectin (76-85%) content of the varieties differed significantly (p <0.05). The results show that maturity affects the starch yield, composition and pasting properties of the new cassava accessions and this should be considered in deciding the time to harvest each accession for specific food and non-food industrial applications.

Source: KNUST