World Vision Ghana (WVG) has committed US$8 million to assist farmers and vulnerable households affected by the severe drought in some parts of Ghana in 2024.
The support package, which includes cash transfers, food supplies, and essential relief items, is expected to benefit over 324,000 people, including children, across the hardest-hit regions of the country.
The drought has significantly impacted over four million households, causing substantial post-harvest losses in key crops such as maize, millet, and beans. These crops are crucial for food, nutrition, and income for many farmers. As a result, the drought has left communities struggling to meet basic needs, including food, healthcare, and education.
WVG will implement the relief program across 13 of its operational areas. These areas include East Gonja, West Gonja, Kpandai, Bulsa South, Bawku West, Wa West, Wa East, Bodi, Krachi-Nchumburu, Krachi West, Zabzugu, Kassena Nankana West, and Garu, which span the Northern, Upper West, Upper East, Western North, Volta, Oti, and Savannah Regions.
Mr. Samuel Gmalu, WVG’s Manager for Humanitarian, Emergency, and Relief Affairs, spoke to the B&FT about the dire situation. He explained that the drought has caused severe disruption to farming communities, requiring urgent national-level intervention. Many farmers have lost their crops and livelihoods, leaving them vulnerable and unable to meet their families’ basic needs.
“This drought highlights the vulnerability of agricultural communities to climate change and underscores the need for a national disaster response strategy,” Mr. Gmalu stated. He recalled similar challenges in previous years, such as the Volta Basin flooding disaster, and stressed the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience-building efforts across the country.
World Vision Ghana has a longstanding commitment to providing emergency relief, promoting justice, and implementing sustainable development programs. These include initiatives in education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, child protection, and water and sanitation (WASH).
The organization works closely with local communities, churches, and government agencies to support the most vulnerable groups, including female-headed households, orphans, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
“We are committed to helping these farmers and vulnerable families recover and build resilience,” Mr. Gmalu assured.
Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture in Tamale has called for the creation of a comprehensive national disaster policy. This policy would aim to harmonize response efforts and ensure effective support for disaster victims, particularly women and children.
About The Author
