To bolster resilience and social cohesion against violent extremism, women and youth from border communities in the Bongo District have received livelihood start-up kits to enhance their economic opportunities.

This initiative is part of a broader project spearheaded by Meta Foundation aimed at strengthening the socioeconomic resilience of these communities, thereby reducing their vulnerability to violence and poverty.

The project, titled; “Enhancing Social Cohesion and Social Contract through Empowerment of Women and Youth in Three Northern Regions of Ghana," is being implemented across nine communities in the Bongo, Bawku West, and Garu Districts.

It is being implemented by Meta Foundation, a non-governmental organisation based in the Upper East Region, with funding from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

At a ceremony in Bongo, 45 beneficiaries, primarily dressmakers and hairdressers from the Namoo, Feo, and Soe communities, received sewing machines, hair dryers, and other necessary accessories to help them start up or expand their businesses.

Previously, 30 basket weavers were also supported with raw materials such as straws and working tools, bringing the total to 75 individuals directly benefiting from the project.

Head of Programmes and Partnerships at Meta Foundation, David Amozebga, said the project aims to support a total of 240 individuals across the targeted districts, with diverse interventions designed to promote economic independence.

 “We believe that by enhancing their skills and supporting their existing businesses in areas such as dressmaking, gardening, and basket weaving, we can improve their overall livelihoods and shield them from the allure of violent extremism,” he stated.

Peace and Development Officer for the United Nations Ghana, Dr. Mathias Awonnatey Ateng, emphasised the importance of empowering women and youth as a strategy to thwart violent extremism. He noted the rising threat of extremism in neighboring Sahel countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, underscoring the need for preemptive measures in Ghana to mitigate against extremist ideologies in the country.

“Our focus is on addressing the drivers of violent extremism within these communities,” Dr. Ateng said.

He added; “By providing livelihood opportunities and supporting entrepreneurial initiatives, we can significantly diminish individuals' susceptibility to radicalisation and foster sustainable peace.”

A beneficiary, Patricia Nsoh, a dressmaker from the Bongo Soe community, expressed her gratitude for the support, stating that the resources provided would enable her not only to establish her own business but also to train others in her craft.

This initiative is a significant step in addressing the economic needs of vulnerable communities and fostering a secure environment by promoting social cohesion and resilience against extremist influences.