Governance Practices and Stakeholder Participation in the Implementation of Ghana’s School Feeding Programme (GSFP) in Tolon District

Abstract

This study explores the governance structures and stakeholder participation in the implementation of Ghana's School Feeding Programme (GSFP) in the Tolon District. The GSFP, which is a government initiative aimed at improving child nutrition and supporting local agriculture, relies heavily on effective governance structures and active participation from various stakeholders, including government decentralized agencies, local authorities, farmers, caterers, school administrators, community members, and Civil Society Organizations. Using a qualitative research approach, the study explores how the various stakeholders engage in the implementation process and decision-making. Data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation with key stakeholders in the district. The findings reveal that the effectiveness of the governance structures is limited by issues related to coordination, stakeholder participation, capacity, and sustainability, such as transparency and accountability, which significantly impact the smooth implementation of the GSFP. The findings also found that civil society organizations have mobilized in northern Ghana to form a Platform to work together to collaborate with government officials at the local and national levels. However, the findings revealed challenges such as insufficient local capacity, limited stakeholder engagement, and poor communication among actors in the district and how much such challenges hinder the full prospects of the Programme. The study highlights the need for more inclusive governance frameworks that encourage greater stakeholder involvement, particularly at the local level, to enhance the sustainability and success of the GSFP. Policy recommendations focus on strengthening local coordination structures, improving transparency in the implementation processes, and ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are meaningfully engaged in the implementation and monitoring of the Programme.