Navigating Legal Pluralism: Slum Expansion, Tenure Insecurity, and Land Governance in Two Major Cities of Ghana: A Questionnaire Case Study

Abstract

Urban informality remains a persistent challenge in Ghana’s rapidly urbanizing municipalities, yet the intersection of land tenure insecurity and service delivery in mid-sized cities is underexplored. This paper investigates the socio-spatial dynamics of informal settlements in the Oforikrom Municipality, focusing on housing quality, land conflicts, and access to basic services. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the paper draws on survey data from 250 households and semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants. The findings reveal that tenure insecurity, fragmented service provision, and weak institutional coordination contribute significantly to the expansion and entrenchment of slum conditions. These dynamics not only hinder residents’ access to formal urban structures but also perpetuate spatial exclusion and socio-economic marginalization. The study underscores the need for integrated land governance reforms and inclusive urban planning strategies to address the structural barriers facing informal communities. By illuminating the complex interplay between statutory and customary land systems, the research offers practical insights for policymakers seeking to promote equitable urban development in Ghana and similar contexts.