Smart infrastructure adoption for sustainable religious facilities management in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose Funding constraints in African religious institutions pose a significant barrier to the adoption of smart infrastructure systems. This study aims to examine the adoption of smart infrastructure, such as energy-efficient systems, security enhancements and digital monitoring technologies, in Ghanaian religious institutions, focusing on stakeholder readiness, barriers and opportunities for sustainable Facilities Management (FM). Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a quantitative, positivist research design, using a descriptive survey to assess stakeholder perceptions across churches and mosques in the Greater Accra Region. A structured questionnaire, validated through expert input, was administered electronically to a randomly selected sample of 385 respondents. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis, all conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 26). Findings The study revealed that (71.9%) of respondents affirmed the presence of FM personnel (M = 4.12), maintenance practices were moderately effective (M = 3.45), and the adoption of smart infrastructure remained low (M = 2.65) in peri-urban areas. Stakeholders recognised the value of smart systems for enhancing security (M = 4.01), sustainability (M = 3.88) and socio-economic development (M = 3.74). Readiness (M = 3.49) and leadership support (M = 3.91) were high, although barriers such as cost (M = 3.65) and skill gaps persisted. Efficiency, sustainability and socio-economic impact emerged as key drivers. Originality/value This study addresses a gap in the literature on smart FM in religious institutions, which previous research has largely overlooked. It proposes a novel framework linking smart infrastructure adoption with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) – SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG 13 (climate action), and provides empirical evidence on how these goals intersect in faith-based FM.