It would be a mistake to consider the chieftaincy in Ghana as no more than the folklore image that is sometimes ascribed to it. The role of the chiefs is still ruled by tradition and rites, the main purpose of which is to ensure the unity of the group and to perpetuate customary power. Nowadays, however, many chiefs have also proved to be effective mediators in local conflicts, particularly with regard to land disputes. Moreover, there is an increasing number of chiefs who, having been recognized as representatives of their communities, become engaged in development activities. The network of chieftaincies is practically present all over the country, and either compete with or complement the decentralized institutions set up in the 1990s. This situation makes Ghana's experience of decentralization unique.