An examination of REDD+ readiness and implementation in Ghana

Abstract

Ghana has participated in REDD+ negotiations since its inception and has been engaged in activities geared at implementing REDD+ in the country. In this paper, we examine initiatives that have been undertaken by relevant stakeholders to advance REDD+ readiness and implementation in Ghana. Results revealed that several aspects of planning and coordination were ranked high and some progress has been made in the arena of Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) and audit; benefit sharing; financing; as well as demonstrations and pilots. That said, some challenges still prevail in the area of policy, laws, and institutions; as well as implementation of an emission reduction program. Therefore, some specific recommendations for advancing REDD+ readiness and implementation in Ghana can be considered going forward including the development of strong institutions for REDD+ implementation; clarification of carbon and tenure rights; capacity building for data collection; and institutional collaboration. Implementing these recommendations is a fundamental prerequisite for an effective and efficient implementation of REDD+ in Ghana.