Attacking the Resource Curse: Are Ghanaians Huge Expectations on the Oil and Gas Production Real?

Abstract

The aim of the study is to review Ghanaians huge perceptions and dependence on the oil and gas resources especially residence of Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis and the surrounding communities. The study will provide a credible data in policy-making process on the allocation of the oil and gas resources that will improve the living standards of citizens. It will also educate the inhabitants of the resources base on the problems of natural resources to minimize conflict and other social vices. The methodology adopted for the research is participatory poverty assessment. Some questionnaire and personal interviews were used to gather the data. About 200 participants took part in answering the questionnaire and expressing their views. Simple percentages were adopted as the data handling techniques to analyze the data collected. The major findings from the survey were that the oil and gas revenue can help to reduce poverty and create wealth for Ghanaians. The result also indicated that the poor road network in the Western Region, which has been abandoned, will be improved and accessible. The members were optimistic that if there is real accountability and transparency among the various stakeholders, Ghana can avoid the resource curse known as the “Dutch Disease”.

Keywords: Ghana, gas, oil, participatory, poverty, resource curse