The Role of Open Space in Human Settlement Development in the Tamale Metropolis of Northern Ghana

Abstract

Most parts of the world are rapidly urbanizing. In sub-Saharan Africa, towns are urbanizing at a faster pace than earlier predicted. Also, large portions of rural settings have been gradually moving towards urbanization. The Tamale Metropolis has been rated as the fastest-growing metropolis in Sub-Saharan Africa. City planning and concerns about the need for open-space creation have been a major challenge due to poor adherence to standards in the building codes. This study was conducted to assess the role of open space in human settlement development in the Tamale Metropolis. The study sampled the views of 157 residents who stay closed to community open spaces in five suburbs of the metropolis. Key informant interviews were also conducted with officials from the Town and Country Planning Department. The study revealed that most residents spend leisure by taking a walk in the neighborhood or idling in outdoor spaces. Also, the majority of the residents had poor knowledge of institutional and land administration. This often led to non-adherence to regulations and this affects open spaces in the metropolis. Common among residents is also a poor appreciation of the importance of open space and this results in encroachment. The Town and Country Planning Department should institute sanctions and stringent measures to deter offenders. Also, public seminars should be used to educate residents on the need to adhere to planning and building codes. Lastly, the study recommends strong collaboration between the various institutions engaged in land administration to facilitate effective provision and preservation of quality open spaces in the metropolis.