An Examination of Assumptions Underlying Multi-stakeholder Platforms In Two Community Water Supply Systems in Ghana

Abstract

The prospects that multi-stakeholder platforms present to development processes have been the main reason why such platforms have continued to be used. While concerns about the shortcomings of multi-stakeholder platforms have been raised in recent times, how these platforms actually function is barely explored. The paper seeks to examine two assumptions underlying the functioning of multi-stakeholder platforms. In-depth interviews that were conducted with members of multi-stakeholder platforms responsible for local water projects revealed that initial conditions, dispositions and preferences among the members of the platforms were amenable to change. Additionally, although the underlying assumptions are desirable, the analysis of data reveals that while there exists a basic assumption that members of multi-stakeholders platforms are equal, the members do not view themselves as equals. They are aware of their differences and exploit such differences. Again the findings show that the shared benefits to be derived from the synergies that result from the pooling of potentials of the stakeholders, although important, are not necessarily enough to keep the stakeholders supporting the goals and objectives of the platforms.