Accra, Kumasi, Tokoradi and Tamale are all urban areas in the African country of Ghana. Ghana is a rich country with a great variety of cultural and linguistic traditions. It also has large amounts of natural resources. Nevertheless, Ghana faces some challenges when it comes to ensuring the sustainable development of its urban areas. These are some of them:
Economic growth
Ghana is a country that has experienced significant economic growth in recent years. This is partly due to the growth of cities in the country. As Ghana is interested in ensuring that this growth continues, it will be important for the country to prioritize sustainable development, even if that means risking slower economic growth.
Social inclusion
If Ghana is to achieve sustainable development, it is important that all types of people in the country are included in such vision. Due to the problem of inequality, Ghana risks leaving many people behind when striving to achieve these goals.
Use of resources
Ghana is a country rich in natural resources, such as industrial minerals, precious metals, hydrocarbons and cocoa. Exploitation of these metals could result in high short-term gains. However, in order to ensure sustainable development, Ghana needs to prioritize long-term goals, and implement limits on the use of natural resources.
Infrastructure
Lack of modern infrastructure could threaten the sustainable development of these cities. Efficient and ecological buildings, public transportation, and urban planning could help Ghana achieve these goals.
Education
In order for sustainability to be reached and maintained, it is important that the population of these cities is educated. As education reaches more people, citizens will express more interest in sustainable development, and would better contribute to this goal.