Ghana’s Government Steps Up to Mitigate Drought Effects
The Government of Ghana has launched the “Dry Spell Emergency Cash Transfer” program to support vulnerable households affected by the severe drought across eight regions, including Bono, Bono East, Oti, Northern, North-East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West. These regions account for 62% of Ghana’s grain production and have been ravaged by prolonged dry spells, resulting in estimated losses of GHS 3.5 billion and threatening food security, livelihoods, and community well-being.
At a press briefing today, Hon. Darkoa Newman, the Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, announced that the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme will distribute GHS 1,000 to 212,273 households across 5,210 communities. This one-time cash transfer aims to sustain basic needs, safeguard assets, and enhance resilience for the future.
The Ministry emphasizes its commitment to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring the initiative’s effective implementation. Beneficiaries are encouraged to report any cases of under-payment, fraud, or harassment via toll-free numbers (0800800800 or 0800900900) or email (Helpline.Hope@mogcsp.gov.gh).
Hon. Darkoa Newman, who is also the Member of Parliament for Okaikoi South Constituency, has been actively working on various initiatives to support vulnerable populations ¹ ². Recently, she announced the passage of the Affirmative Action Bill, which aims to promote gender equality and women empowerment ³. This timely intervention demonstrates Ghana’s Government dedication to supporting those affected by the drought, alleviating immediate suffering, and fostering long-term resilience.
