Bamboo for housing in Ghana: challenges and prospects for the future

Abstract

Bamboo can be used for housing and is widely regarded as an excellent substitute for wood in the form of laminated bamboo boards. The extent of bamboo housing in Ghana is relatively low and is mainly traditional and rudimental. It is perceived as a “poor man's house”. A stakeholder meeting was organized to identify the key challenges to the efficient use of bamboo in housing and propose recommendations for extensive utilization. The paper reports on the challenges identified, the opportunities and prospects available and major recommendations made to enhance bamboo utilization for housing. Lack of adequate expertise in bamboo processing and construction as well as appropriate 
technology for processing local bamboo species was identified as major challenge to bamboo usage.  Furthermore, lack of commitment on bamboo usage by various stakeholders (industry, government, professionals, Non Governmental Organizations, private enterprises, individuals) was also identified as inhibiting bamboo development in the country. Opportunities available for enhanced bamboo utilization 
include the availability of the raw material and relevant institutions with capacity to support the industry. It was agreed by stakeholders that stronger institutional collaboration, capacity building and exhibitions 
are needed to promote bamboo for housing. To ensure a sustainable resource base, it is important to consider bamboo species as part of the priority species selected for the national plantation programme and should be managed appropriately