The state, governance and the energy industry in Ghana

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	The state, governance and the energy industry in Ghana
Author:	Botchway, Francis N.
Year:	2000
Periodical:	Verfassung und Recht in Übersee
Volume:	33
Issue:	2
Pages:	176-211
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Ghana
Subjects:	energy policy energy
Abstract:	This article surveys the role and the performance of the State in the energy industry in Ghana. The primary question pursued is, to what extent has the State and the application of the principles of good governance contributed to the efficiency or otherwise of the energy industry in Ghana? The article begins with a brief discussion of the elements of good governance necessary for a functioning and effective State that is able to develop, shape, effect and scrutinize economic projects. This is followed by an introduction to the political economy of Ghana, giving an overview of the country's political history and its influence on the economy and the energy sector, in particular. A short look at the governance structure of the energy industry reveals the roots of failure within the dictatorial bureaucracy. The article concludes that durable, equitable and efficient operation of the energy industry domestically and internationally can only be achieved through good governance - evidenced in a technically efficient and independent bureaucracy, rule of law, the real existence of freedoms such as freedom of speech, association, and assembly, and the judicious use of governmental discretion. Notes, ref., sum (p. 135).