A high-level Ghanaian delegation, led by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, concluded a knowledge exchange visit to Ethiopia. The team studied Ethiopia’s Productive Safety Net Programme (PSNP). This initiative aims to reduce poverty and create sustainable livelihoods across the country.
Ghana sought firsthand insights into the implementation of Africa’s flagship PSNP. The programme has successfully operated for two decades. Ghanaian officials observed how public works generated employment and restored degraded land. This exchange supports Ghana’s efforts to strengthen its own social protection programs.
This visit aligns with Ghana’s broader economic strategy to boost local development and improve living standards. Ghana’s existing Productive Safety Net Project (GPSNP2) already combines similar interventions. The nation's dedication to social protection initiatives, reflected in substantial government spending, underscores its commitment. The World Bank and other development partners support these safety net efforts in the region.
Mr. Ibrahim stated that Ethiopia's success demonstrates the importance of sustained investment in safety nets. He noted that these investments create productive assets and improve livelihoods. He added that public works can transform landscapes and strengthen food security. These lessons are highly relevant for Ghana's interventions, he affirmed.
The Ghanaian government plans to integrate these insights into the GPSNP2 program. This integration will help poor and vulnerable households improve incomes and build enterprises. The focus will be on long-term resilience and community asset building. Decision-makers and markets will watch for the expanded impact on rural economies and job creation.
Ghana’s GPSNP2 has already made significant strides in poverty alleviation and livelihood enhancement. The program has equipped over 57,000 beneficiaries with essential skills for economic activities. More than 30,000 of these beneficiaries received grants to establish or expand their businesses. This direct financial support helps individuals become self-reliant and contributes to local economic growth.
Labour-Intensive Public Works (LIPW) interventions under GPSNP2 have provided temporary employment for over 85,000 poor and vulnerable individuals. These initiatives create valuable community assets. Examples include feeder roads, small earth dams, and afforestation sites. These assets deliver lasting economic and environmental benefits, enhancing community infrastructure.
The observed success in Ethiopia’s Dire Dawa region highlighted the transformative power of public works. The delegation saw how communities turned degraded land into productive agricultural assets. This included extensive soil and water conservation structures and erosion control measures. These efforts enhance agricultural productivity and protect natural resources simultaneously.
Ethiopia's PSNP has evolved into its sixth phase, demonstrating strong confidence from both the government and development partners. Its ability to deliver measurable results over time is well-established. Ghana aims to replicate this sustainability and impact, ensuring long-term benefits for its citizens.
The commitment to strong government ownership and institutional dedication is crucial for sustainable social protection. Long-term financing mechanisms will ensure the gains made are sustained. This strategic investment in human capital and community assets is vital for Ghana’s future economic stability and growth.