Resource utilization conflict in downstream non-resettled communities of the Bui Dam in Ghana

In this study, we examined the downstream social impacts of Ghana’s Bui Dam and identified resource use conflicts in the non-resettled communities within a 30 km stretch along the course of the Black Volta River below the dam. Through household survey questionnaires and focus group discussions, data were collected from farming and fishing communities in seven downstream non-resettled communities. Data analysis was guided by the distance decay concept and matrix framework on the social impacts of dams. The results indicate that the construction of the Bui Dam has led to improvements in social infrastructure with positive multiplier effects in a spatially differentiated manner. On the other hand, the influx of migrants and the resultant land and water resource use conflicts have adversely affected farming and fishing, which are the main sources of livelihoods in the communities. Policies to regulate natural resource use around dams were recommended to be considered in dam planning and execution to safeguard the livelihoods of local downstream populations.