The United States has announced a US$1.7 million aid package to support victims of drought in Ghana’s Northern Region and middle belt as part of its continued efforts to alleviate the impact of climate-related challenges in the country. The announcement was made by U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia E. Palmer, during a press briefing following the launch of the Coastal States Stability Mechanism (CSSM).
Although the government announced an GH¢8billion mitigation fund to provide relief to over 980,000 farmers cultivating an estimated 1.8 million hectares of land in August, we are yet to see the disbursement of the aforementioned funds to affected farmers.
The latest move from the US Embassy is likely to set the pace for government to act swiftly mostly especially as we draw closer to the end of the administration of the current government.
The ongoing drought in Ghana’s Northern Region and middle belt has led to widespread food insecurity, economic losses, and environmental damage. Agriculture, the lifeline for most communities in these areas, has been devastated by crop failures and livestock deaths.
The U.S. support will specifically target communities most affected by the drought, helping to mitigate the adverse impacts of the climate crisis on livelihoods and agricultural productivity.
The financial aid will be channeled through Ghana’s Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program, which provides direct cash transfers to vulnerable households. The assistance aims to support drought-affected families in securing basic needs such as food, water, and shelter as they navigate the harsh conditions.
