By Jennifer Frimpong Wiredu
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable livelihoods and self-reliance among refugees and host communities through agriculture and skills development initiatives.
The Head of National Office for UNHCR Ghana, Tetteh Kwao Padi, said the UN agency is collaborating with the Ghana Refugee Board and the Government of Ghana under the Ghana Refugee Agribusiness Sustainability Programme (GRASP) to improve the living conditions of refugees while also supporting host communities.
Speaking during an interaction with the media in Accra, Mr. Padi explained that the GRASP initiative is designed to create long-term livelihood opportunities for refugees through farming, agribusiness and skills transfer. According to him, the programme forms part of broader efforts to move refugees from dependence on humanitarian assistance to self-reliance and economic empowerment.
He noted that refugees possess valuable skills and talents that can contribute significantly to national development if given the right opportunities and support. He added that empowering refugees through sustainable livelihood programmes also helps reduce poverty and prevents vulnerable persons from resorting to negative coping mechanisms.
Mr. Padi explained that the programme particularly seeks to harness the agricultural expertise of Burkinabè refugees, many of whom have extensive farming experience. He said the initiative will also benefit host communities through knowledge-sharing, improved farming practices and access to livelihood opportunities.
According to him, the inclusion of host communities in the programme is critical to promoting peaceful coexistence and ensuring that no group feels excluded from development interventions. He stressed that the initiative is structured as a win-win approach that benefits both refugees and local communities.
The UNHCR official further disclosed that the GRASP programme will initially begin in two locations this year, with plans to scale it up to other refugee-hosting communities across the country. He revealed that some countries hosting refugees are already studying the GRASP model for possible adoption and replication.
Mr. Padi indicated that the programme aligns with the government’s Feed Ghana initiative and broader national efforts aimed at enhancing food security, promoting agricultural productivity and improving livelihoods.
He therefore called on development partners, stakeholders and the private sector to support the initiative to ensure that refugees and host communities are able to build sustainable futures and contribute meaningfully to society.
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