Koforidua: The Hunger Project (THP) has concluded its three-year initiative aimed at empowering sub-district institutions through a close-out forum held in Koforidua, informing stakeholders and beneficiaries about the project’s completion. The initiative, titled ‘Strengthening Sub-District Institutions for Community-Led Public Service,’ sought to reinforce community-led development strategies that emphasize local leadership.
According to Ghana News Agency, the project, funded by the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), spanned from December 2021 to November 2024. During the forum, strategies were discussed to ensure the sustainability of the project’s achievements. Mr. Samuel Afrane, Country Director of The Hunger Project-Ghana, highlighted the project’s adoption of THP’s epicenter strategy, which is a community-led, women-centered approach. This strategy empowered community members to advocate for public services and demand transparency from local authorities.
Mr. Afrane emphasize
d the ongoing nature of the project’s initiatives, noting that while direct engagement from THP-Ghana has concluded, the activities and practices must continue. He urged beneficiaries to share the knowledge gained with nearby communities that did not participate in the project.
The project was implemented in five epicenters across Eastern Region districts, including Okere, Ayensuano, Fanteakwa North, Yilo Krobo Municipal, and Upper Manya Krobo districts. Mr. Solomon Amoakwa, Governance Project Coordinator for THP-Ghana, outlined the creation of citizens’ charters or social contracts within these districts as a key achievement. These charters document commitments made by organizations to citizens regarding the services provided.
The project also facilitated training for 31 district assembly staff in accountable planning, 306 epicenter unit committee and area council members in participatory project planning, and 353 community representatives in social accountability mechanisms. Additionally, 25 journalists a
nd media practitioners were trained to promote good governance, and 21,834 individuals were educated on local governance processes and citizen rights.
Ms. Mabel Anyonam, a Unit Committee Member from Asenema, praised the project’s impact on women empowerment and youth skill development within her community. Similarly, Mr. Andrews Anyensu from the Konkone Epicenter highlighted his personal growth and confidence gained through the project’s support, stressing the importance of community collaboration with municipal assemblies for successful development.
