Analysing forest resource governance in Africa: Proposition for an integrated policy network model

The aim of this paper is to present an integrated policy network model for analysing forest policy formulation and implementation in Africa. The model, which is based on a relational conceptualisation of power, addresses some of the main weaknesses of the existing policy network theory. To test the robustness of the model, it was applied to examine forest governance in Ghana. Based on the empirical findings, it was concluded that the integrated policy network model provides a useful framework for understanding the fluidity of power and informal exchanges that characterises forest policy formulation and implementation in Africa.

► The paper presents a policy network model for analysing forest governance.
► The model was applied to examine forest policy in Ghana.
► Forest management in Ghana is influenced by informal exchanges among stakeholders.
► Chainsaw operators rely on their networks with guards to harvest forest resources.