Despite a recent boost in cash disbursements under the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme, calls are mounting for the government to further increase the amount granted to vulnerable households.
Beneficiaries and advocates say the financial support, though impactful, remains insufficient to meet the growing cost of living. For many families, the LEAP programme has offered critical relief, easing economic strain and restoring a sense of hope during difficult times.
During interviews in the Shai Osudoku District, beneficiaries expressed heartfelt appreciation for the assistance but urged the government to review grant levels.
When I take the money, I use some to purchase food for the orphans,” said 85-year-old Janet Korkor Nyetey, who receives 310 Ghana cedis to support herself and the children under her care. “Before the money came, I worked at the public toilet to take care of my kids.”
Hair stylist and widow, Emelia Ugo, shared her experience of hardship before joining the programme. “It’s not enough, but if someone is helping you, you can’t complain. If they ask whether they should increase it, I’ll gladly say yes. I now have two kids, I’m not married, and it’s still difficult. But I make sure I use the money wisely when it comes.”
Trader Cynthia Kobla also appealed for the programme to be expanded to cover more people in need. “Before I joined the LEAP programme, I was a petty trader. It has really helped me, I wish it could reach more areas.”
According to Director of Social Welfare and Community Development, Theresa Akoto, more than 5,000 beneficiaries across 62 communities in Shai Osudoku have been impacted by delays in receiving LEAP funds due to a logistics shortfall.
“We were meant to start payments on the 7th and finish by the 18th, but we’ve only managed four days. We still have to reach the hinterlands like Osudoku, and we can’t do that without vehicles. Around here we often rely on motorbikes.”
She disclosed that the government has commenced a reassessment exercise to identify households that may have achieved financial stability and can exit the programme, allowing new applicants to be enrolled.
This reassessment will help scale up the project and determine which beneficiaries can be phased out to make room for others who still need help,” she said.
Since its launch in 2008, the LEAP programme has empowered thousands of Ghanaian families. The latest government commitment increased programme funding from GHC728.8 million to GHC953.5 million, extending support to over 400,000 households nationwide.
