Promoting Green Infrastructure in Kumasi: Challenges and Strategies

Abstract

The study investigated the causes and effects of the reduction of green spaces in the city of Kumasi,  as well as the challenges in the management of green spaces. Data for the study were gathered through interviews, documentary reviews and observation. The causes and challenges of maintaining green spaces included inadequate collaboration between institutions engaged in the planning and management of the city, inadequate capacity and lack of control by the city management over a greater part of the city’s lands.  The effects included the near loss of the garden city status of the city and reduction in the number of green spaces for recreation, parties and relaxation. To help promote and preserve green spaces in the city, it is recommended that the managers of the city develop various policies, programmes and projects to support green living and create a participation strategy for all major stakeholders in the creation and management of green spaces. City authorities should institute an annual Green Space Awareness education in the city, encourage private developers, owners of housing facilities and educational institutions to maintain private gardens and green spaces and help improve the collaboration between and among key stakeholders and institutions in the management of green spaces in the city.

Keywords: Green Infrastructure, Green space, Cities, Kumasi, land use, climate change