“Ghana’s LEAP Program Empowers Vulnerable Households”

Story by Fada Amakye

Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection has commenced the 98th cycle of the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) cash grant payment, a testament to the government’s commitment to reducing vulnerability in society. The LEAP program, which provides direct cash support to vulnerable households, has been instrumental in empowering families to live with dignity and hope.

The program’s focus on human capital development and productive inclusion has enabled beneficiaries to engage in sustainable economic activities and self-employment.

The 98th cycle will directly support 350,580 beneficiary households with cash grants that will positively impact the lives of over 1.5 million individuals across the nation. Households with one eligible member will receive GHC 320, households with two eligible members will receive GHC 380, households with three eligible members will receive GHC 440, and households with four or more eligible members will receive GHC 530.

In addition to direct cash support, the Ministry has placed strong emphasis on human capital development and productive inclusion for LEAP beneficiaries. The Ministry has trained a cadre of master trainers who provide technical support to sub-national structures, culminating in the training and regular sensitization of beneficiaries nationwide. This structured approach ensures that LEAP is not only a safety net but also a springboard for sustainable economic and human development.

The Ministry has also commenced the implementation of a structural benchmark for the indexation of the cash grants of the LEAP program against inflation. This indexation reduces the erosion of the value of the LEAP cash grant against inflation. Efforts are also being made to reassess the LEAP program, aiming to increase coverage to 400,000 households by the end of 2025.

The Ministry has initiated processes with the Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement System (GIPSS) to promote multiple cash-out options for beneficiary households of the LEAP program. This will provide an opportunity for beneficiaries to have multiple cash-out options, enhance financial inclusion of beneficiaries, and promote easy access to the grants.

The Minister has urged all stakeholders to actively participate in the ongoing LEAP assessment, reassessment, data collection, and household data verification exercise.

Your cooperation is vital to ensure fairness, effectiveness, and expansion of the LEAP program to other deserving households. As a Ministry, we uphold the highest standards of integrity in managing the LEAP program.