The META Foundation, based in Bolgatanga, Upper East Region of Ghana, has made a significant investment to support refugees, host communities, and Fulbes in the Bawku West District, specifically at Tarikom.
This initiative, valued at over 900,000 Ghana cedis, includes the provision of sewing machines, water pumping machines, and ruminants.
During a handover ceremony, the foundation distributed 20 sewing machines and 2 water pumping machines, along with vegetable seeds.
These resources represent not just items but vital opportunities for women and youth to start or expand their businesses, increase their income, support their families, and foster peaceful coexistence in their communities.
Mr. David Amozegba, the Head of Programs and Partnership at the META Foundation, spoke exclusively to the media at the event.
He emphasized the importance of this moment under the Improving Economic Resilience and Cohesion for Host Communities Project (PERCH), which is implemented by the META Foundation, which seeks to improving the Economic Resilience of Host Communities for Peacebuilding (Northern Côte d’Ivoire, Northern Ghana), funded by the U.S. Department of State.
The project aims to help border communities improve their livelihoods, enhance peace, and build a better future for both host community members and asylum seekers.
Mr. Amozegba noted that the PERCH Project addresses challenges faced by communities like Tarikom, Winaba, and Sapeliga, which experience pressure on social and economic resources. The project empowers local residents by equipping them with practical skills, starting tools, and the knowledge to turn those skills into sustainable income.A range of livelihood activities has been introduced, including tom brown production, shea processing, liquid soap and shower gel production, rice processing, local fabric weaving, small ruminant rearing (goats and pigs), mobile phone repairs, sewing, and vegetable farming, all supported by solar-powered boreholes and water pumping machines.
Additionally, the META Foundation supports Fulbe women with dairy processing and storage equipment to help them grow their businesses. The foundation aims to enhance the hygiene and marketability of their milk products while connecting beneficiaries to markets through trade fairs.
Training in business management, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship is also provided to strengthen their chances of success.
Mr. Amozegba stated that within the next four months, at least 150 individuals and 12 enterprises are expected to benefit from this project.
He emphasized that true success comes from collaboration.He called on traditional leaders, assembly members, the Refugee Board, the media, and other partners to continue encouraging and guiding beneficiaries, ensuring that this support brings long-term benefits for everyone.
He urged beneficiaries to put their new tools and skills into action, inspiring others in their communities
.Mr. Amozegba expressed deep gratitude to UNDP, IOM, and the U.S. government for their support to refugees, host communities, and the Fulbes.
He also thanked the Refugee Board, the District Assembly for their collaboration, and the media for helping to share these transformative stories, we can build communities where livelihoods are secure, peace is real, and hope is alive.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Gaspard Ayuureneeya Adongo.