ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
The socio-cultural significance of canoe decoration among the people of the Efutu Traditional Area in the Central Region of Ghana

This study aimed at examining the socio-cultural significance of canoe decoration among the people of Efutu Traditional Area in the Central Region of Ghana. The research work was conducted at the Efutu Traditional Area precisely Winneba, Senya and Fete respectively in 2010/2011 academic year. The study was to answer the following questions: (i) what are the socio-cultural importance of canoe decoration among the Efutu people, in the Central Region of Ghana? (ii) To what extent do the canoe designs and inscriptions communicate to the people? (iii) And how does the socio-cultural importance of canoe decorations impact the people of the Efutu Traditional Area? The study was purely a qualitative descriptive research. A sample size of one hundred and fifty (150) people were selected out of the fishermen, chief-fishermen, canoe owners, canoe custodians and canoe artists (like painters, carpenters and carvers) from Winneba, Senya, and Fete respectively. The main instruments used for the collection of information were observation and interview. Again, it was observed that the Efutu people often preserve their beliefs and values and convey them from generation to generation through their arts. That is, through the symbols and inscriptions made on their canoes, music, dance and festivals such as the Aboakyir. This piece of work will serve as great source of information for historians, art critics, anthropologists and other art researchers who want to know more about canoe decoration, its philosophical and socio-cultural significance. Again, it would be beneficial to organizations such as Centre for National Culture, Museums and Monument Boards, Ghana Tourists Board for National Archives and other ethnic groups in Ghana who would want to dig into the symbols and inscriptions found on canoes in the Efutu Traditional Area.

Source: KNUST
Socio-Demographic determinants of survival from cervical cancer at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Kumasi, Ghana

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. In 2012, an estimated 528000 new cases were reported with the largest burden occurring in less developed countries (around 85%). It accounts for almost 12% of all cancers in females and remains the most common cancer in women in Central and Eastern Africa. In Ghana, approximately 3,000 women are diagnosed annually with cervical cancer with at least 2,000 of them dying from the disease per year. Socio-demographic risks such as education, income, marital status and co-morbidity, seem to significantly contribute to the survival of patients with cervical cancer disease. It is believed that the most vulnerable population affected with cervical cancer is women with low socio-demographic status. However, it is unclear how these factors interact to affect screening, diagnosis and survival in Ghana. This research therefore aimed at assessing the contribution of socio-demographic characteristics such as age, marital status, parity, religion, occupation, education, income, residence (urban and rural), co-morbidity, life style, stage at diagnosis and treatment type on the survival of patients with cervical cancer over a five year period. A retrospective cohort design was employed of all cervical cancer patients who fulfilled the criteria for inclusion, by retrieval of all such data from the folders of the cancer directorate of the KATH. From all such folders variables such as age, marital status, parity, religion, occupation, education, income, residence (urban and rural), co-morbidity, life style, stage at diagnosis and treatment type were extracted using an excel format data set over a five-year period (2004 to 2008). Over the study period, trends in outcomes of health status measures available in patients’ records were reviewed and data extracted for analysis based on the socio-demographic variables.

Source: KNUST
A socio-economic analysis of the emerging Shea value chain in Northern region, Ghana

The shea VC chain in the Northern Region comprises varied actors including shea nut collectors and/ processors of kernel, shea kernel traders, shea butter processors and shea butter traders with perceived disproportionate variations among the actors in terms of profit margins distribution. This study examines the emerging shea value chain in the Northern Region of Ghana, with emphasis on shea butter processors. Specifically, the study investigates the effects of group formation on shea butter processors participation in the shea value chain and aims to compare shea butter processors operating in groups and shea butter processors operating individually with regards to specific variables such as costs, profit margins and outputs. The analysis in this study involved mapping the shea supply chain and assessing the profit margins and cost structures of the actors at different segments of the chain. Using gross margin analysis and independent sample t-tests results the study revealed that butter processors bear the largest share of cost and receive the lowest profit margin. The independent t- test results show significant differences in profit margins between butter processors operating in groups and butter processors operating individually. Beyond these empirical findings the study also shed light on the issue of governance and upgrading as it relates to the shea value chain in the Northern Region, highlighting various lead firms and auxiliary organizations in the chain and the role they play in the governance and upgrading process in the shea value chain in the Northern Region.

Source: KNUST
A socio-economic analysis of the practice of Taungya in the Mpraeso forest district

Forest fringe communities rely on forest resources for their livelihood. However, bad farming methods, population pressure, unregulated exploitation of forest resources and frequent forest fires have depleted forests, both in extent and content. Reservation and afforestation particularly through taungya using local farm- families was popular in the study area albeit the perceived failure. However, these resource-poor farmers were not given any financial assistance and/or incentives to motivate them. The study examined the acceptance, commitment and adoption of taungya by farmers. This was done using a questionnaire guide to interview 104 households randomly selected from 20 communities around six reserves in the Mpraeso Forest District (MFD) in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Data from secondary sources were also reviewed. Selected households were categorized into taungya and non-taungya practitioners. Simple statistical methods including frequencies, means, pie charts, bar graphs and percentages were employed. The study revealed that interest and commitment in and adoption of taungya was influenced by socio-economic considerations including expected benefits (particularly food and cash), control over resources such as land, labour and credit, and incentives. Though taungya is premised on free plots for farmers, farmers had to pay “something” for the plots. Conflict of interest between forest authorities and farmers over choice of cultivated crops and trees, inadequate supervision and rejection of indigenous knowledge and experience in trees and forest management hastened the demise of taungya. Common species cultivated include Tectona grandis, Cedrela odorata, Khaya senegalensis. Terminalia ivorensis and Gmelina arborea. The new taungya needs a more assertive multi-disciplinary team which will deemphasize timber production, encourage cultivation of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in an extended tenure, and enhance socio-economic interests and incentives. This would promote consensus building and co-operation in taungya and forest management.

Source: KNUST
The socio-economic and aesthetic values of street sculptures in Kumasi.

The study based on the findings of a qualitative research approach looked at the little known fact about the socio-economic value of street sculptors and their sculptures to the aesthetic relevance and the tourist potential for the Kumasi metropolis. The study developed a keen interest in the relationships between sculptures and the environment, sculptures and the history, sculpture and the tourism. Data were collected from Kumasi street sculptors who produce sculptures, residents, tourists in selected tourist centres through interviews, observation and questionnaire. The study revealed that some of the sculptures are of poor artistic quality and badly mounted and negleted.There is also a lack of public appreciation for street sculptures due to the unconcerned attitude to the unattractive conditions of street sculptures in the city of Kumasi. The study revealed that street sculptors and their sculptures apart from the beautification of the environs of the Kumasi metropolis play a great deal of role in the socio-economic development of the Ghana at large. It is also concluded that based on the findings of the study that the sculptural works of the street sculptors preserve the cultural heritage and also promote cultural growth among the people. The findings of the study also revealed that sculptures are highly patronaged by both local and foreign tourists which obviously promote tourism in the Kumasi metropolis. It is therefore the conviction of the researcher that, if this document is meticulously studied by researchers, curriculum planner, art educators, and the policy makers, street sculptors could be helped and can therefore work to achieve a good standard of living. And also to ensure beautification of cities and the nation at large. In sum, the fun and excitement of the street art creativity have been swallowed up by the ineptitude of officialdom. Red tapeism always kills aesthetic appetite.

Source: KNUST
The socio-economic determinants of access to quality health services in the Builsa District of the Upper East Region

In both the developed and the developing world access to quality health services are limited to many people and therefore a source of worry to many stakeholders in the health sector. For example between 1.3 and 2.5 billion people all over the world have little or no access to health care due to poor socio-economic conditions and about 60% of developing country population depend on traditional sources for health care due to low income status. The main objective of this study was to determine the level of access to health services in the Builsa district of the Upper East Region. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection. A structured interview questionnaire guide was used to collect data on heads of households and health workers. Focus group discussions were also held involving youth groups, women groups, men groups, professional Associations like hairdressers and dressmakers to enable the study obtain varied information on the peoples experiences with health delivery and also assessed the perceptions of the people about quality health services as well as the socio-cultural beliefs and practices that affects access to quality health services in the district. The study discovered that income affects access to quality health services because the annual mean income of the people influences their choice of treatment and at the same time annual mean treatment cost also affects choice of treatment. The people’s perceptions about quality of health services affect access to health services. Education has no influence on access to health services. Household decision-making on the use of resources affects access to health services as such decisions were prerogative of the head of the household. Individuals lack the power to take decisions on their own health. The study recommended capacity building at the community level through group formation, Associations, co-operatives for effective and efficient credit management. Other recommendations were the expansion of health facilities, provision of improved road networks, and improved sensitization on the district wide mutual health insurance scheme, improved livestock production, health education as well as the provision of potable water facilities to improve sanitation as well as check the spread of water borne diseases.

Source: KNUST
Socio-economic and environmental perspectives of logging in Asunafo District of Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana

The socio-economic and environmental perspective of logging in the Asunafo District of the Brong Ahafo Region was assessed between September, 1999 and August, 2000. The rationale behind the study was to verify the implementation of logging standards with reference to socio-economic and environmental impacts. Evaluation was conducted against the background of resource availability and intensity of exploitation. Critical for assessment were extent of compliance of standards by loggers, the practicability of these standards in addressing environmentally-related problems of logging and efficiency of monitoring by Forest Services Division to ensure compliance. Methods employed in the study included desk study for background information, use of structured questionnaires for stakeholders and field assessment for level of compliance and acceptability of standards. Available records on the resource base in the district indicated that it has the potential for sustaining available industry if the current rate of exploitation is kept within the prescribed limit. The logging industry was observed to have positively affected the socioeconomic development of the District tremendously especially in the area of employment and provision of infrastructure.

Source: KNUST
Socio-Economic determinants of antenatal care utilisation of pregnant mothers in selected health facilities in the Kwabre East district of Ghana.

Access to quality health care remains a major challenge in the efforts at reversing maternal morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of established maternal health interventions, the health of the expectant mother and the unborn child remains poor due to low utilisation of interventions. The study examined the socio-economic determinants of antenatal care utilisation in peri-urban Kumasi. The study employed cross-sectional analytic design using structured questionnaire and an interview section. Using four health facilities, a total number of 200 pregnant women were randomly sampled by the proportionate stratified sampling. In addition, percentages, frequencies, pie charts, bars and cross tabulation are used in analysing field data. In addition, data were analysed using multiple regression and significance levels of 1%, 5% and 10% were considered. The results showed varying utilization of antenatal care with age, household size and occupational status as important socio-economic determinants while distance to ANC, quality of service and service satisfaction were significant system factors that influenced utiltisation of antenatal care among pregnant women in the study area. The study concludes that socio-economic and health system factors are important determinants of antenatal care utilsation. Stepping up of interventions aimed at improving the socio-economic status and addressing health system and proximity challenges could be helpful.

Source: KNUST
Socio-economic determinants of antenatal care utilisation of pregnant mothers in selected health facilities in the Kwabre East District of Ghana

Access to quality health care remains a major challenge in the efforts at reversing maternal morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of established maternal health interventions, the health of the expectant mother and the unborn child remains poor due to low utilisation of interventions. The study examined the socio-economic determinants of antenatal care utilisation in peri-urban Kumasi. The study employed cross-sectional analytic design using structured questionnaire and an interview section. Using four health facilities, a total number of 200 pregnant women were randomly sampled by the proportionate stratified sampling. In addition, percentages, frequencies, pie charts, bars and cross tabulation are used in analysing field data. In addition, data were analysed using multiple regression and significance levels of 1%, 5% and 10% were considered. The results showed varying utilization of antenatal care with age, household size and occupational status as important socio-economic determinants while distance to ANC, quality of service and service satisfaction were significant system factors that influenced utiltisation of antenatal care among pregnant women in the study area. The study concludes that socio-economic and health system factors are important determinants of antenatal care utilsation. Stepping up of interventions aimed at improving the socio-economic status and addressing health system and proximity challenges could be helpful.

Source: KNUST
Socio-economic evaluation of some irrigation projects on the southern banks of the Afram River in South Kwahu District: a case study of the Kwahu Amanfrom Catholic Cooperative Irrigation Project

One of the fundamental policy objectives that were supposed to guide the implementation of the Volta River Project was that no one should be made worse off by the creation of the Volta Lake. It is understandable, therefore, that efforts were made, as part of the resettlement scheme, to introduce the settler-farmers to mechanised and scientific farming. It was perceived that this would be a means for increasing their farm productivity, and. hence their economic and social well-being. For several reasons, resettlement agriculture failed. The settlers were left to contend with a destroyed ecology, drought, declining crop yields and less than one-half of the farmlands promised. The South Afram area was soon declared a drought-disaster zone; emergency food rations were rushed there. Families emigrated. In order to overcome these difficulties the farmers of Kwahu Amanfrom, one of the resettlement townships in the South Afram area, have since 1982 embarked on cooperative irrigation farming to produce tomatoes. The Volta River Authority, which introduced irrigation farming in the town, abandoned its pilot irrigation scheme in 1983. Since then individuals, small groups of farmers and cooperatives in the area have taken up tomato production under sprinkler irrigation culture. However, these irrigation farmers face problems of poor marketing, inadequate access to inputs and. lack of institutional support services, among others. This study evaluates the operations and. performance of one cooperative irrigation project (the Kwahu Amanfrom Catholic Cooperative Irrigation Project) in order to assess its problems and potentials, its economic viability and financial feasibility. This project, established with assistance from the Catholic Relief Services, is the premier community-based self-help, small-scale sprinkler irrigation cooperative project in 0-hana,. It has influenced the emergence of a number of such cooperatives in the South Afram area. The study provides a basis for improving the performance of such ventures in the area. Specifically, the study assesses the economic and social effects of the Kwahu Amanfrom Catholic Cooperative Irrigation Project. Cost-benefit analysis using discounted cash flow measures were employed in the economic and financial evaluation; while the social evaluation was done by means of goal-achievementt measures. The results indicate that the operations and performance of the Kwahu Amanfrom Catholic Irrigation project is sub-optimal. The major bottlenecks hindering a more efficient performance are: poor marketing due to the bad road access to the area; and lack of institutional support services, such as input supply and credit. The study also shows that small-scale sprinkler irrigation farming for producing tomatoes in Kwahu Amanfrom area is a. viable venture and that it could be financed by bank credit.

Source: KNUST
Socio-economic factors influencing access to healthcare by persons with disabilities in the Kumasi Metro

It is estimated that about 15% of the world’s population live with disabilities of various types, and the number is increasing due to the rise of chronic diseases, injuries, car crashes, falls, violence and other causes such as ageing. Of this total, 80% live in low-income countries; most are poor and have limited or no access to basic services, including healthcare and rehabilitation facilities. The general objective of the study was to find out the Socio-Economic factors influencing access to healthcare by persons with disabilities in the Kumasi Metro. Qualitative study was carried out. Purposive sampling was used to select the respondents for the study (persons with disabilities and healthcare workers). A case study design was adopted with Kumasi metro as the case, structured interview and focus group discussions were also employed to collect data from the respondents of the study. In all 15 interviews were conducted, 10 in-depth interviews with health workers and 5 focused group discussions with persons with disabilities. Data was analysed based on the themes that emerged during the discussions and responses have been paraphrased to support the data. The study found that the major social factors that influence access to healthcare are cultural explanation of disability, stigmatization, and attitude of health care workers towards persons with disabilities. The economic factors include, cost of treatment and assistive devices, unemployment, poverty, transportation problems. In view of the various findings, it is recommended that there should be review of national health policy programs and implementation to ensure that the needs of persons with disabilities are adequately catered for. Also there should be effective public education for the general public concerning disability.

Source: KNUST
The Socio-Economic Impact of Kudi Nkosuo Credit of Ghana Commercial Bank Limited on Selected Communities in the Volta Region

The informal sector of the business environment comprises the non-salaried private men and women who set them-selves up in small businesses. According to a report on Global Aging issued in 2008, members in the informal sector formed about 80% of the working population in Ghana. The informal sector contributes several ways towards economic growth. However, they are not considered for main stream credit by formal banks for lack of steady business, lack of Collateral and historical Financial Data for reference. They, therefore, depend heavily on Micro credit (the extension of small loans to those in the informal sector to spur entrepreneur) by informal financial institutions. Realizing the immense contributions of Microcredit to the informal sector, the United Nations (A/52/573) declared year 2005 as the year of micro credit as a way of encouraging all formal financial institutions to give the informal sector as much attention as they give to the formal sector and bring them into the main stream credit. For this and other implied reasons of increasing customer base and income generation, Ghana Commercial Bank Limited introduced Kudi Nkosuo loans in 2002. The problem here is whether the Kudi Nkosuo loans is a way of bringing the informal sector into the main stream finance industry and whether it is meeting, at competitive cost, the credit needs of those in the informal sector. Literature was reviewed and primary data were also collected using Interviews and Questionnaires. Quota Sampling Method was used to get equal representatives from each of the five selected communities to complete the questionnaires which were analyzed. In conclusion, it can be said that the Socio-Economic impact of the product in the selected communities is very low. To achieve greater impact more promotion is required.

Source: KNUST