University of Twente Student Theses

Login
As of Friday, 8 August 2025, the current Student Theses repository is no longer available for thesis uploads. A new Student Theses repository will be available starting Friday, 15 August 2025.

Towards building land use co-existence between pastoralists and non-pastoralists in Nanumba South District, Ghana

Offei, Anyetei Michael (2025) Towards building land use co-existence between pastoralists and non-pastoralists in Nanumba South District, Ghana.

[img] PDF
4MB
Abstract:This study explores land use conflict and co-existence between pastoralists and non-pastoralists in Nanumba South District, Ghana. It investigates how tenure systems, spatial overlaps, and local land use structures influence conflict dynamics. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research draws on qualitative data from interviews, focus group discussions, spatial data from participatory mapping, and GIS analysis. Findings reveal that while farming communities access land through relatively secure customary systems, pastoralists rely on informal, temporary arrangements with no legal recognition, leaving them highly vulnerable. Key conflict triggers include crop destruction by livestock, lack of designated grazing routes, and weak, often biased conflict resolution mechanisms. Spatial analysis identified clear conflict hotspots, particularly where cattle routes intersect with farmland. Participatory mapping validated these findings and offered a platform for collective understanding of land use patterns. In response, the study developed a practical land use conflict resolution model. The model emphasizes participatory land-use planning, formal recognition of grazing rights, community-based zoning, and inclusive conflict resolution structures. The research concludes that resolving land use conflict requires more than policy reform, and it demands local engagement, spatial clarity, and institutional collaboration. The proposed model presents a practical, replicable framework for managing shared land resources through a tiered conflict resolution system that integrates traditional mediation, formal advisory, and ADR mechanisms. It reinforces land use co-existence through participatory land use zoning, resource-sharing protocols, and inclusive land access agreements, ultimately aiming to reduce conflicts and improve livelihoods. This study contributes to land governance literature and offers actionable insights for district authorities, traditional leaders, and development practitioners working in conflict-prone rural landscapes.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Clients:
Unknown organization, Netherlands
Faculty:ITC: Faculty of Geo-information Science and Earth Observation
Subject:38 earth sciences
Programme:Geoinformation Science and Earth Observation MSc (75014)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/107094
Export this item as:BibTeX
EndNote
HTML Citation
Reference Manager

 

Repository Staff Only: item control page