Impact of alternative development on reducing the security threat posed by cannabis cultivation: A case of Tain District, Ghana

Abstract

Purpose: Cannabis cultivation has supported the local economy and culture of Nsawkaw, Badu, and other communities in the Tain District of the Bono Region for many years. The cultivation's security threat was also important, according to this study's respondents. However, any Alternative Development (AD) program to replace this old enterprise must entail community engagement, youth participation, entrepreneurial development, and finances to preserve the culture and tradition of the people. Methodology: Qualitative and quantitative research methods were used to analyze data and use the inductive research approach. Cannabis cultivation farmers in Badu and Nsawkaw in Tain District, Opinion Leaders, Narcotics Control Commission employees, and Bono Region NGOs were the study's target demographic. Findings: It was also found that most AD regulations to prevent cannabis cultivation were heavily affected by party politics, leading many people to forsake them. AD must examine how Ghana might allow cannabis cultivation under stringent laws for its many benefits, including medicinal use and quick money. Value: AD should consider marketing, conserving, transporting, and pricing licit crops. The Tree Crops Authority (MOFA) should be proactive in its mandate. Their proactiveness can pique cannabis farmers' interest in tree crops, particularly cashews.