Exploratory study of the roles of traditional leaders in community commitments and engagement in Asutifi North district

Abstract

The study focused on the roles of the traditional leaders in Ntotroso paramountcy of the Asutifi North District to ensuring community commitment and how they can continuously engage themselves. As a case study design that used qualitative approach, a sample size of four participants was selected using the purposive and theoretical sampling techniques. The purpose of the study was to examine the possibility of helping communities to engage themselves to enhance development. The study used interview and reflective dialogue as data collection tools to get information from the study. Data collected were analysed thematically. Major findings that came out strongly included, the emphasis placed on the use of cultural norms during discussions. Again, the prominence of multiple ideas gave better understanding on issues which the participants gained. In addition, discussions focused on how deep thinking processes influenced members’ contributions. The presence of a facilitator issue made discussion organisations effective. For better understanding of issues, participants’ expert knowledge and prior experiences were crucial to bring about the development of positive attitude towards engaging with the kind of exchanges. These contributed to the reflective conversations. It was therefore recommended that, in-depth knowledge and role definitions during any collaborative activity need to be defined well by the paramountcy in such interactions within the study area.