The political ecology of urban green space transformation in Greater Tamale, Ghana: Conditions, drivers, and power relations

Urban green spaces (UGSs) are critical for ecological sustainability, social wellbeing, public health, and urban livability, yet they are increasingly threatened in rapidly urbanising cities. This study employed a qualitative case study approach to examine the condition of urban green spaces and the socio-ecological and governance processes driving their decline in five communities within the Greater Tamale Metropolitan Area (GTMA): Gumbehene, Nyohini, Kukuo, Taha, and Sagnarigu. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with residents, community leaders, planning officials, landowners, and other stakeholders involved in land governance, complemented by field observations of green space distribution, quality, accessibility, and use. The data were analysed thematically through systematic coding and categorisation of interview transcripts and field notes to identify recurring patterns, key drivers, and governance challenges associated with green space decline. The findings reveal significant deterioration of UGSs, characterised by inadequate provision, poor maintenance, safety concerns, and increasing inaccessibility. This decline is driven by interconnected factors, including rapid population growth and horizontal urban expansion into green and open spaces, the commercialisation of customary land, weak planning enforcement, fragmented institutional responsibilities, and political interference. Together, these processes prioritise short-term economic and political interests over long-term ecological sustainability and community wellbeing, resulting in inequitable access to green spaces and the gradual erosion of their ecological, social, and public health functions. By foregrounding local perspectives and lived experiences, the study offers actionable insights for promoting sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban planning and green space governance in the GTMA and other rapidly urbanising contexts facing similar challenges.