Transformation or deformation? Ghana's Bui hydropower dam and the myth of modernity of the resettlement camps

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Bui Dam is a consequential infrastructure undertaking in modern Ghana. The project is Ghana's third large dam and the second largest by total installed capacity. In addition to addressing a crippling national energy crisis, proponents touted the project's high modernist imperatives, including industrialisation and rural development. These benefits were promoted to counteract resistance by surrounding communities who opposed the project. However, after an involuntary resettlement programme overseen by Ghanaian authorities, resettlers now feel the reality of their acquiescence. Resettlers’ declining quality of life and harsh living conditions coupled with several unmet promises underline the dissonance between rhetoric and reality. Using modernisation framework, this study evaluates the dam's post-resettlement challenges and argues that missteps, poor planning, failed promises, and neglect have combined to unleash hardships on resettlers. The study stresses adherence to pre- and post-dam planning procedures in ensuring sustainability and justice for dam-affected populations.