Rethinking facilities management practices in Ghanaian cemeteries: a comparative analysis of innovative and sustainable approaches

Abstract

Purpose Public cemeteries in Ghana, particularly in Greater Accra and Greater Kumasi, face numerous challenges due to rapid urbanisation, neglect, inadequate maintenance and the lack of involvement of professional facilities managers, which contributes to poor management practices. This study aims to address the pressing need for innovative and sustainable practices in cemetery facilities management (FM) in Ghana. Design/methodology/approach This research adopts a five-stage comprehensive methodology for a comparative analysis. This includes a thorough literature review of previous studies, walkthrough inspections of larger cemeteries in Kumasi and Accra, comparative content analysis integrating literature and practical observations, field observations and informal engagement with local managers and synthesis and evaluation of the findings. Findings This study reveals significant challenges such as neglect, poor maintenance, land scarcity, poor urban integration, limited funding and fragmented governance. Comparative analysis with global best practices highlights the importance of inclusive design, multifunctional spaces and sustainability in cemetery development. Malmö and cultural balancing from Malaysian, Scandinavian and Asian models demonstrate how cemeteries can function as green public spaces, blending ecological value with cultural and recreational uses. Technological tools like object-based image analysis and drone mapping, ground penetrating radar, building information modelling, Internet of Things, discrete event simulation and Geographic Information Systems enhance burial plot management and environmental monitoring. The findings advocate for a paradigm shift in Ghanaian cemetery FM practices. Originality/value This study provides a novel comparative analysis of innovative and sustainable approaches in FM practices in the study area. It offers practical recommendations based on global best practices and observations, contributing to the development of more effective and culturally sensitive cemetery FM strategies in Ghana. Being a pioneering paper, it will contribute to the body of knowledge on FM in Africa and policy implementations.