Customary land ownership and land use change in Kumasi: An issue of chieftaincy sustenance?

Like many African countries, Ghana operates a pluralistic land tenure system - customary and state ownership exist conterminously. Land-use planning is largely a state function, but the involvement of chiefs who are cus-todians of about 78% of the lands is significant. The main aim of this paper is to examine how customary land ownership affects land-use change. This was done by specifically examining (i) the causes of selected land-use changes, and (ii) chieftaincy sustenance in relation to land ownership and land-use change. The study uses primarily qualitative approaches, with an in-depth study of multiple cases in Kumasi. Data were collected from several sources through face-to-face interviews, documentary reviews, observation, and focus group discussions. Data were analysed using the content analytical approach via the aid of Atlas ti, a qualitative analysis tool. The study's major contribution to land-use planning and urban governance is the chieftaincy sustenance which came out as a crucial factor for land-use change. Other factors include increasing land values, urbanisation, land ownership disputes, and the government's mal-handling of acquired lands. The customary land ownership sys-tem being embedded in African societies means that chieftaincy continues to be powerful in the management of the cities. Thus, chieftaincy sustenance should be a matter of concern in urban planning and governance. We call for increased collaboration between the traditional authorities and the State systems to actively govern land-use planning at the local government level.