Ghana to seek World Bank support to expand social cohesion project

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mr Ahmed Ibrahim, has called for expanded funding to support community development initiatives targeting vulnerable regions.

The focus of the call was on youth empowerment and social cohesion.

During an address at the Gulf of Guinea Social Cohesion Project (SOCO) Regional Coordination Meeting in Cotonou, Benin, the Minister stated that Ghana must move beyond infrastructure development to address socio-economic challenges.

"Our focus must be on sustainability and long-term impact. Community participation should not end with project completion; it must be an ongoing process that ensures people remain central to decision-making," he said.

The Minister noted that it was important to invest in job creation, skills training and youth engagement programs.

"Without access to meaningful work and positive avenues for participation, many young people experience social exclusion and heightened vulnerability to crime and radicalization," he added.

Mr Ibrahim stressed that livelihood activities and skills training are fundamental to building social cohesion, particularly for vulnerable groups like women.

"These initiatives will empower communities to participate in economic activities and support their families," he stated.

The Minister added, "We will continue collaborating with our partners to enhance security, expand economic opportunities and build resilient communities that can withstand future challenges."

The meeting brought together ministers, prefects and governors from the region and World Bank representatives, to discuss strategies for regional development and social cohesion.

The government plans to engage the World Bank to secure additional funding to expand the SOCO project to other vulnerable communities. The project aims to address challenges such as climate change, violent extremism and cross-border conflicts.