The National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP) has strongly denied allegations made in a defamatory Facebook post by an individual identified as Nana Ama Osei Kufuor.

The post claimed that NAELP was a pseudo-political scheme under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, with staff allegedly receiving salaries without working and campaigning for a political party in 2024.

NAELP has categorically rejected these claims, labelling them as false and malicious attempts to undermine the programme’s credibility and achievements.

Launched in October 2021 under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, NAELP was established to address the socio-economic challenges caused by illegal mining activities. The programme focuses on reclaiming degraded lands, creating sustainable jobs, and promoting responsible small-scale mining. Since its inception, NAELP has created over 80,000 direct and indirect jobs and reclaimed approximately 1,000 hectares of degraded land, significantly contributing to Ghana’s environmental restoration and economic development.

The programme has also made strides in youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.

In collaboration with Queens University and other partners, NAELP has trained nearly 2,000 youth in entrepreneurship, with many transitioning from illegal mining to sustainable ventures. Partnerships with Anglogold Ashanti and GIZ have further supported small businesses with equipment, training, and funding, creating additional jobs and enhancing economic resilience in local communities.

NAELP dismissed accusations of corruption and partisanship, emphasising its transparent operations under the strategic leadership of Dr Louise Carol Serwaa Donkor. The organisation highlighted that the list of employees shared in the defamatory post represents legitimate staff who contribute to NAELP’s measurable successes.

The claims of receiving millions in climate funds were also refuted, with NAELP challenging detractors to provide evidence to substantiate their allegations.

In its response, NAELP called on Ghanaians to disregard the misleading information and recognise the programme’s verifiable achievements.

It reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development and preserving the environment while reserving the right to pursue legal action against defamatory content. NAELP also appealed to well-meaning citizens to support its efforts in building a prosperous and sustainable future for Ghana.