Chiefs in Development in Ghana: A study of Two Contemporary Ghanaian Chiefs

Abstract:

The central government has been mandated by the citizens to promote development in all the sectors of the country. In spite of government’s responsibility of promoting development in the country, the private sector also has a role to play. Thus, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), international development partners, civil society organizations and faith-based organizations have all played diverse roles in promoting development in Ghana. However, a key stakeholder of development at both local and national levels is the Ghanaian chief. In contemporary times, some chiefs have redefined their roles as agents of development. Using the qualitative approach and through the lens of modernization theory, this paper investigates the contributions of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Agbogbomefia Togbe Afede XIV to development at both local and national levels. The paper argues that Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Togbe Afede XIV are modern chiefs who have used their positions and experience to promote development in areas of education, health, business and industries, settlement of disputes, information and communication technology, and sports among others. The paper concludes that both chiefs are agents of development who complement the role of the central government in promoting development in Ghana.