Scholarlink

<p>This paper investigates the role of city branding as a strategic tool in the development of African urban centers, using Accra, Ghana, as a focal point. Grounded in Hankinson’s Relational Network Model and Herstein’s Country–City–Region Branding Matrix, the study evaluates how Accra might craft a unique and competitive urban identity within the country’s multicultural fabric. Through an analysis of secondary data, the research uncovers promising pathways in cultural heritage, diaspora engagement, and sustainable development. Nonetheless, it also identifies key limitations, such as disjointed governance structures, insufficient stakeholder collaboration, and a lack of unified brand architecture. By drawing parallels with branding experiences in Seoul, Barcelona, and Cape Town, the study illustrates how successful urban branding efforts are often built on inclusive governance, intentional storytelling, and cultural capital. The paper ends with policy-oriented recommendations for embedding branding practices into Accra’s urban planning agenda, arguing for a contextually grounded, stakeholder-led model that enhances Accra’s international visibility while supporting Ghana’s broader identity ambitions.</p>

错误：搜索内容不能为空，请输入英文关键词
错误：关键词超出字数限制，请精简
高级检索

Applying city branding models to Accra: toward strategic narratives for a global African city

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年1月20日

查看全文
  • Senyo Obed Amponsah

摘要

This paper investigates the role of city branding as a strategic tool in the development of African urban centers, using Accra, Ghana, as a focal point. Grounded in Hankinson’s Relational Network Model and Herstein’s Country–City–Region Branding Matrix, the study evaluates how Accra might craft a unique and competitive urban identity within the country’s multicultural fabric. Through an analysis of secondary data, the research uncovers promising pathways in cultural heritage, diaspora engagement, and sustainable development. Nonetheless, it also identifies key limitations, such as disjointed governance structures, insufficient stakeholder collaboration, and a lack of unified brand architecture. By drawing parallels with branding experiences in Seoul, Barcelona, and Cape Town, the study illustrates how successful urban branding efforts are often built on inclusive governance, intentional storytelling, and cultural capital. The paper ends with policy-oriented recommendations for embedding branding practices into Accra’s urban planning agenda, arguing for a contextually grounded, stakeholder-led model that enhances Accra’s international visibility while supporting Ghana’s broader identity ambitions.