ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
An Examination of the Socio-Economic Effects of Xenophobic Violence on Ghanaian Migrants in South Africa

There have been numerous cases of xenophobic violence on foreign nationals in recent years in South Africa. Grounded on this preposition, this dissertation examined the socio-economic effects of xenophobic violence on Ghanaian migrants in South Africa. Furthermore, an understanding of diplomatic relations and dynamics were explored between various countries and migration dynamics between nationals of the different countries. The research employed qualitative approach, using a snowballing sampling technique and semi-structured interviews, to collect the required primary data from the target population, who were Ghanaian nationals resident in South Africa. The data was then analysed manually, interpreted and categorised into themes. The findings of the study are discussed under themes and sub-themes which include the relationship dynamics between South African nationals and Ghanaians in South Africa, the causes of xenophobia/xenophobic violence in South Africa, experiences of Ghanaian foreign nationals within South Africa, socio-economic effects of xenophobic violence in South Africa, migrants’ perception of the South African authorities with regards to xenophobic violence against Ghanaian foreign nationals, migrants view on Ghana’s government in response to the xenophobic violence, the relationship between Ghana’s government and the South African government, and migrants perceptions on what could be done/interventions to stop and discourage xenophobic violence against foreign nationals in south Africa. Inferring from its findings, the study proposed some recommendations which are as follows; bearing in mind that the modern world we live in will always be characterised by migration between nationals of different countries, the migration of Ghanaians to South Africa is most likely to continue. It is, therefore, important for the authorities from both countries to find a way of educating their citizens on the need for tolerance and compromise on citizens from both countries. In addition, the Ghanaian authorities could borrow a leaf from the causes of migration by Ghanaian nationals and then using the causes, try to counter their migration to South Africa by offering the amenities and opportunities that the migrating citizens see as pulling factors to go and settle in South Africa. Furthermore, the study proposed that Ghanaian authorities and the South African authorities could sign memorandum of understanding, to protect citizens of respective countries in cases where xenophobic violence is experienced.

Source: UG
An Examination of the Sustainability of the Ghana Beyond Aid Agenda: Challenges and Prospects

Foreign aid constitutes an important source of developmental funding for many African states including Ghana. In 2018, the government of Ghana announced an intention to pursue an Agenda to build ‘Ghana Beyond Aid’ through the prudent management of the countries resources. This work seeks to look at the sustainability of the “Ghana Beyond Aid” agenda by examining the interpretations and purpose of “Ghana Beyond Aid”, elite consensus on pursuing a “Ghana Beyond Aid” and the challenges and prospects of the agenda. The study employed the qualitative research methodology and relied on both primary and secondary data for the analysis. Primary data were sourced from the Ghana Beyond Aid Secretariat, Parliament, Civil society, Development partners, Academia, NDPC and Political parties via interviews. The study found that, “Ghana Beyond Aid”, is subject to so many interpretations which all reflect a decreasing relevance of aid relative to its contribution to development in a changing context of development cooperation. However, two broad interpretations have been derived: the literally concept, implying a complete cut or rejection of aid and the purposive concept, referring to the vision for Ghana to attain economic self-sufficiency and wean itself from aid dependency. Also, the study revealed an underlying consensus on the need for Ghana to strive for self-sufficiency in line with the purposive concept of ‘Ghana Beyond Aid’. It was however found that, forging a bi-partisan consensus on the implementation of the agenda across governments is difficult to reach due to the dangerously competitive nature of the country’s political template. ‘Ghana Beyond Aid’, the study showed, presents Ghana with the opportunity to make the most out of its resources to get out of aid dependency. It also calls for a commitment to increased domestic resource mobilization, accountable leadership, a fight against corruption and wastage.

Source: UG
An Examination of the United Nation’s Effectiveness in Tackling Sexual Harassment: A Case Study of UN Office Workers and Peacekeepers in Ghana

Sexual harassment has become a bane globally and while most organizations have adopted some form of resistance towards it, others have treated it like a “white elephant”, and would rather adopt a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy with respect sexual harassment. One very important global institution is the United Nations. The purpose of this research is to provide an insight into sexual harassment and how deep this phenomenon has eaten into society. In doing so, this paper seeks to marry the issue of sexual harassment with the policies of the UN against it, considering the fact that they have adopted a zero-tolerance policy to sexual harassment. While using data from both primary and secondary sources which will be analyzed qualitatively, this research makes use of the organizational theory in examining how robust the policies of the UN are in tackling sexual harassment within its walls. The study ultimately concludes that even though policies against sexual harassment exist in the UN, the organization has not been able to effectively implement them due to some reasons like the position of the OIOS. Issues like the abuse of authority and that of legal immunity have in more ways than one crippled the activities and the reach of the OIOS and by extension, the UN. The study recommends that the OIOS should adopt an all-inclusive approach in dealing with the issue of sexual harassment as well as conduct training sessions for employees and supervisors alike as this would act as a preventive measure against sexual harassment.

Source: UG
Examining Antenatal Health Literacy in Ghana

Purpose: To explore Ghanaian pregnant women's understanding and recognition of danger signs in pregnancy, birth preparedness and complication readiness, and their understanding of newborn care. Design: An exploratory, qualitative study design was used. Methods: Data were gathered through six focus group discussions with 68 pregnant women attending antenatal care at a busy urban hospital in Ghana. Qualitative and descriptive data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Health literacy was used as the guiding framework to analyze the qualitative data. Data were analyzed in the content domains of (a) understanding and recognition of danger signs in pregnancy, (b) preparedness for childbirth, (c) understanding and recognition of danger signs in the newborn, and (d) appropriate and timely referral. Findings: Women in this study identified danger signs of pregnancy and in the newborn, but had difficulty interpreting and operationalizing information they received during antenatal care visits, indicating that health education did not translate to appropriate health behaviors. Cultural beliefs in alternative medicine, lack of understanding, and prior negative encounters with healthcare professionals may have led to underutilization of professional midwives for delivery and health services. Conclusions: Women in this study exhibited low health literacy by incorrectly interpreting and operationalizing health education received during antenatal care. With limited health literacy, pregnant women cannot fully comprehend the scope of services that a health system can provide for them and their families. Clinical Relevance: Achieving the greatest impact with limited time in antenatal care is a challenge. Since antenatal care is widely available to pregnant women in Ghana, it is vital to reexamine the way antenatal education is delivered. Pregnant women must receive health information that is accurate and easy to understand in order to make informed health choices that will improve maternal and child health. © 2014 Sigma Theta Tau International.

Source: UG
Examining brand loyalty from an attachment theory perspective

Purpose This study aimed to ascertain the relationship between experiential value, brand attachment and brand loyalty. The authors employed the attachment theory as the theoretical framework and operationalised attachment as a two-dimensional construct: identity-based and bonding-based. The authors argue that experiential value reinforces customer attachment in these two perspectives of attachment and consequently determine brand loyalty. Design/methodology/approach The authors used a survey research design and collected data from 500 customers of mobile telecommunication network companies in Ghana. The authors analysed the data collected using the partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling. Findings The findings of the study showed that there is a relationship between experiential value, brand attachment (identity-based and bonding-based) and brand loyalty. This study showed how experiential value reinforces each dimension of the attachment theory, and drives brand loyalty. Originality/value This study intensifies the application of attachment theory in the marketing literature. It provides insight into how brand loyalty is developed via attachment.

Source: UG
Examining Change And Permanence In Traditional Earthen Construction In Ghana: A Case Study Of Tamale And Wa.

The architectural style found in Wa and Tamale is renowned for its distinctive use of earthen construction, which features square buildings with flat roofs and circular compounds with conical thatch roofs. Recently, there has been a growing inclination towards the use of alternative construction techniques in which nontraditional materials such as cement, bitumen, and used car engine oil are utilised to render wall surfaces. These structures show how the materials and design in northern Ghana have substantially evolved. However, what forces drive the changes in cob construction in this region? Furthermore, how might these changes impact the preservation of cultural heritage in Ghana? To explore the factors that contribute to the departure from traditional earthen building methods that rely on local materials, this study employs a constructivist research approach. Participants in a survey that informed this study revealed that they struggled to access building materials to construct their houses. While most of the people who responded to the survey have resided in buildings constructed with a mixture of beini and dawadawa, they hesitate to use plant-based biostabilisers in new constructions. Factors that hinder the ongoing construction and preservation of earthen buildings include shifting cultural and social norms, environmental changes, difficulties accessing local building resources, flood risks, regular maintenance requirements, and societal influences. Thus, this study concludes that if communities are empowered to take ownership and recognise the value of their cultural heritage, they are likely to be increasingly aware and appreciative of their architectural heritage. Thus, their local heritage will be preserved.

Source: UG
Examining Climate Change Effects on the Youth in Artisanal Fishing: A Case Study of Ghana.

The fisheries sector is significant for the development of a state. It sustains the livelihood of millions of people and provides food security and income security. However, Climate Change threatens the livelihood of many people in this sector. Focusing on the youth in artisanal fishing, this study uses Emisano, a town in the Central region of Ghana as a case study. This research sought to examine the vulnerability of the Ghanaian youth to Climate Change and what they perceive of Climate Change; examined the influence of Climate Change on the socio-economic livelihoods of the youth involved in artisanal fisheries; and assessed the effectiveness of measures being employed by the government and NGOs to mitigate the effects of Climate Change. The research employed the qualitative research design using primary (interviews) and secondary data sources. The research found that Climate Change presents a myriad of challenges to artisanal fishermen including low fish catch, revenue loss, food insecurity, and worse of it all death. Artisanal fishermen must adapt to these challenges to sustain their livelihoods. However, this study found that most of the measures they employ were not sustainable. We also found that state and non-state actors have put measures such as sensitization activities, access to loans, giving out of fishnets, and fuel subsidies. These measures are perceived by the fishermen to be ineffective due to inadequate information flow and inconsistency of interventions. The study recommended that the Ministry of Communication, Fisheries Commission, and NGOs in the sector should organize more educational activities to educate more youth fishermen on the impact of Climate Change on artisanal fishing. Additionally, to reduce the impact fishers can be equipped with employment skills in other areas to have second jobs. They can also be taught fish farming to help the fishers have fish all year round.

Source: UG
Examining customer engagement and brand loyalty in retail banking: The trustworthiness influence

Purpose In recent times, there has been a growing research interest in customer engagement; however, there is a paucity of empirical evidence on the drivers and outcomes of customer engagement such as brand loyalty. Furthermore, the customer engagement and brand loyalty literature have paid little attention to trustworthiness, even though it has the potential of explaining customer engagement, brand loyalty and their relationships. Consequently, the purpose of this paper is to ascertain the drivers of customer engagement and its relationship with brand loyalty in the context of retail banking in Ghana. Design/methodology/approach The authors employed the survey research design. The authors collected data from retail banking customers in Ghana using the intercept approach. There were 385 respondents. The authors analysed the data using the structural equation modelling approach. Findings The results show that trustworthiness drives customer engagement which results in brand loyalty. The findings reveal that trustworthiness is defined through integrity, benevolence and ability while customer engagement is defined via emotional engagement, cognitive engagement and behavioural engagement. Originality/value This study examines the impact of trustworthiness on customer engagement and brand loyalty. It shows the mediating role of customer engagement in the relationship between trustworthiness and brand loyalty.

Source: UG
Examining equity in health insurance coverage: An analysis of Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme

Background: Following years of out-of-pocket payment for healthcare, some countries in Africa including Ghana, Kenya and Rwanda have instituted social health protection programs through health insurance to provide access to quality and affordable healthcare especially for the poor. This paper examines equity in coverage under Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Methods: Secondary data from the 2008 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey based on an analytical sample of 4821 females (15-49 years) and 4568 males (15-59 years) were analysed using descriptive, bivariate and multivariate methods. Concentration curves and indices were used to examine equity in coverage on the NHIS. Results: As at 2008, more than 60% of Ghanaians aged 15-59 years were not covered under the NHIS with slightly more females (38.9%) than males (29.7%) covered. Coverage was highest among the highly educated, professionals, those from households in the richest wealth quintile and urban residents. Lack of coverage was most concentrated among the poor. Conclusions: Universal coverage under the NHIS is far from being achieved with marked exclusion of the poor. There is the need for deliberate action to enrol the poor under the NHIS. © 2018 The Author(s).

Source: UG
Examining geographic and socio-economic differences in outpatient and inpatient consumer expenditures for treating HIV/AIDS in Nigeria

Introduction: The expenditures on treatment of HIV/AIDS to households were examined to quantify the magnitude of the economic burden of HIV/AIDS to different population groups in Nigeria. The information will also provide a basis for increased action towards a reduction of the economic burden on many households when accessing antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods: A household survey was administered in three states, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom and Anambra, from the South-East, North-East and South-South zones of Nigeria, respectively. A pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a minimum sample of 1200 people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). Data were collected on the medical and non medical expenditures that patients incurred to treat HIV/AIDS for their last treatment episode within three months of the interview date. The expenditures were for outpatient visits (OPV) and inpatient stays (IPS). The incidence of catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) on ART treatment services was computed for OPV and IPS. Data were disaggregated by socio-economic status (SES) and geographic location of the households. Results: The average OPV expenditures incurred by patients per OPV for HIV/AIDS treatment was US$6.1 with variations across SES and urban-rural residence. More than 95% of the surveyed households spent money on transportation to a treatment facility and over 70% spent money on food for OPV. For medical expenditures, the urbanites paid more than rural dwellers. Many patients incurred CHE during outpatient and inpatient visits. Compared to urban dwellers, rural dwellers incurred more CHE for outpatient (p 0.02) and inpatient visits (p 0.002). Conclusions: Treatment expenditures were quite high, inequitable and catastrophic in some instances, hence further jeopardizing the welfare of the households and the PLHIV. Strategically locating fully functional treatment centres to make them more accessible to PLHIV will largely reduce expenditures for travel and the need for food during visits. Additionally, financial risk-protection mechanisms such as treatment vouchers, reimbursement and health insurance that will significantly reduce the expenditures borne by PLHIV and their households in seeking ART should be implemented

Source: UG
Examining Ghana’s Petroleum Act, 2016 (Act 919) and Other Legislative Developments

The Petroleum Act, 2016, was largely enacted to deal with the inadequacies of the Petroleum Act, 1984. After the large-scale commercial discovery of 2007, the inadequacies of the Petroleum Act, 1984, became very evident as Ghana engaged the international oil companies (IOCs) and other actors, in operations. These inadequacies and gaps in the law had to be dealt with by inserting contractual provisions in future agreements entered into with other IOCs. These insertions were concretized into statute when the Petroleum Act, 2016, was enacted. The Petroleum Act, 2016, makes changes to certain positions under the Petroleum Act, 1984, introduces new provisions largely based on Ghana’s experiences in the industry as well as identified gaps in legislation, and allocates roles and responsibilities between the Minister for Energy, the national oil company, Ghana National Petroleum Corporation and the regulatory body formed after the large-scale commercial discovery, the Petroleum Commission. A number of subsidiary legislations have been enacted under the Petroleum Act, 2016, to also deal with different facets of operations in the industry such as metering (measuring of petroleum), data management, health, safety and environment, as well as general regulations

Source: UG
Examining Ghanaian University Libraries Roles in Promoting Research Output

University libraries have the responsibility of providing adequate information to satisfy the needs of a well-defined specialized clientele, namely faculty, researchers, administrators and students. To expand the literature on the role of university libraries in supporting research output in Ghana's academia, this paper focuses on libraries' role in promoting university research output. The study employs quantitative methodology. Using the Survey design, one hundred and fifteen (115) respondents comprising of faculty and postgraduates within the University of Ghana (UG) were sampled and examined on the university library's role in promoting research. Questionnaires were the only research instrument used for data collection. The inferential statistics (Chi-square and Pearson Correlation Matrix) tool were used to generate relationships for dependent and independent variables. Some recommendations on how university libraries can promote research output were suggested.

Source: UG
Examining HIV-related stigma and discrimination in Ghana: what are the major contributors?

Background: Although AIDS-related stigma and discrimination are considered detrimental to HIV prevention activities, not many studies have attempted to understand stigma and discrimination in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Ghana. Methods: Using the 2008 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey and applying the ordinary least-squares technique, this study examined what influences AIDS-related stigma and discrimination among men and women in Ghana. Results: The results indicate that Ghanaian men and women with relatively high knowledge about HIV/AIDS had low stigmatising and discriminatory attitudes (b = –0.097, P < 0.01; b = –0.083, P < 0.01), respectively. On the other hand, respondents who endorsed more myths about HIV transmission had high stigma and discriminatory attitudes. Women who had ever tested for their HIV serostatus reported significantly lower levels of stigma and discrimination (b = –0.085, P < 0.01) compared with those who had not tested for HIV. Individuals who are highly educated, employed and in wealthy households all reported significantly lower levels of stigma and discrimination compared with those who are uneducated, unemployed and in poorer households. Conclusion: AIDS-related stigma and discrimination can be reduced by encouraging HIV testing, and ensuring that Ghanaians understand and have factual knowledge regarding the transmission of the disease.

Source: UG