The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in collaboration with the Government of Ghana and partner organizations, has launched a livelihood support project for persons of concern (PoCs) in the Tarikom community of the Tilli Traditional Area, Bawku West District, Upper East Region.
The initiative, targeted at refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced persons living in the Tarikom Refugee Camp, is designed to strengthen reception, care, and reintegration by providing livelihood opportunities, food and cash assistance, and improved water and sanitation.
Speaking at the launch, Executive Secretary of the Ghana Refugee Board, Tetteh Padi, commended the resilience and determination of the refugees, most of whom fled from neighboring Burkina Faso.
“I am very proud to say once again that Burkinabe refugees, when we received them, told us clearly that they were not here for handouts. They wanted to work, and they asked us to make it possible for them to earn a living. I encourage persons of concern to take advantage of the opportunities provided by ECOWAS to build resilience, improve their livelihoods, and contribute positively to Ghanaian society,” he said.
Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs at ECOWAS, Dr. Stintiki Tarfa Ugbe, said the project reflects the regional body’s commitment to “people, peace, and prosperity.”
“Indeed, the spirit of ECOWAS — of people, peace, and prosperity for all — has been demonstrated in this project. We hope that when we return, all the interventions agreed upon, including food and cash assistance, water and sanitation, and most importantly livelihood support, will have been implemented,” he added.
The six-month project is being implemented with support from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and Right to Be Free.
Upper East Regional Coordinating Director, Alhaji Mohammed Issahaku, who spoke on behalf of the Regional Minister, welcomed the initiative and highlighted the importance of supporting vulnerable populations.
The project is expected to help refugees live with dignity, reduce dependency on aid, and empower them to contribute meaningfully to their host communities.
