Integrating Endogenous Development Principles into Local Development Planning Systems in Ghana: A Theoretical Framework for Sustainable Socio-Economic Growth

Development planning in Ghana has long been shaped by exogenous models that emphasise external expertise and solutions, often to the detriment of local knowledge systems and community participation. This study is motivated by the need to reorient planning practices towards more culturally aligned and sustainable outcomes through the integration of endogenous development principles. It aims to construct a theoretical framework for embedding these principles, specifically local knowledge utilisation, community participation, and sustainable resource management, into Ghana’s local development planning systems. Guided by two central research questions, the study explores what constitutes relevant endogenous development principles in the Ghanaian context and how these can be operationalised within existing planning processes. The study adopts a conceptual research design, utilising deductive reasoning and a comprehensive literature review to develop a theoretical model. It compares endogenous and exogenous paradigms, mapping core endogenous principles onto the stages of the local planning cycle. The findings suggest that integrating local knowledge and participatory mechanisms can enhance development outcomes by improving community ownership, aligning planning with local realities, and promoting long-term sustainability. The study concludes that policy reforms should institutionalise participatory planning, validate indigenous knowledge systems, and strengthen the capacity of local institutions. This integration not only complements Ghana’s decentralisation agenda but also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering a viable pathway for inclusive and resilient development.