Land conflicts in Ghana, causes, effects and resolution

Context and background  Conflict is a natural and inevitable aspect of human interaction, influencing both domestic and international relations. In Ghana, land-related disputes represent a major challenge to effective land management, accounting for approximately 59% of court cases. These disputes increase annually by about 25%, while resolution rates remain as low as 10%, creating persistent uncertainty within the land sector and related industries. Goal and Objectives: The goal of this study is to examine land conflicts in Ghana and their implications for land administration and national development. Specifically, the study seeks to analyse the nature, causes, and consequences of land conflicts; examine their types, forms, functions, and stages; assess existing land conflict resolution mechanisms; and explore sustainable approaches for improving land conflict management. Methodology: The study adopts a qualitative analytical approach, drawing on a review of relevant literature, policy documents, and land administration practices in Ghana to examine the dynamics of land conflicts and existing resolution mechanisms. Results: The findings reveal that land conflicts have significant direct and indirect negative impacts on the national economy and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Existing conflict resolution mechanisms are found to be largely ineffective in addressing the increasing incidence of disputes. Consequently, the study recommends the adoption of a Participatory Geographic Information System (PGIS) approach as an effective and sustainable solution for addressing land conflicts by enhancing transparency, collaboration, and efficiency in land administration.