World Vision Ghana Launches ‘BORDER Project’ to Empower Border Communities
By Priscilla Adjei-Laryea, Grants, Marketing & Communications Specialist
In collaboration with RACED Ghana and with funding from the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) via KfW and the PATRIP Foundation, World Vision Ghana (WVG) officially launched The BORDER Project. This major resilience initiative is focused on stabilising vulnerable border communities in northern Ghana.
This launch signals the start of a multi-sectoral, people-centred response to the mounting socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by communities along Ghana’s borders with Burkina Faso. These communities, particularly in the Upper East and Upper West regions, have long suffered the consequences of climate change, environmental degradation and food insecurity.
The BORDER Project aims to strengthen the resilience and social cohesion of these vulnerable populations. It targets five host communities: Zini, Tarikom, Issakatinga, Bansi and Fielmo, as well as two refugee settlements. The initiative is expected to directly benefit more than 19,000 people, including 5,765 Burkinabe refugees, and reach a further +33,000 people indirectly.
Speaking at the launch of the project, Jean-Claude Mukadi, Interim National Director of World Vision Ghana, called for stronger cross-border and inter-agency partnerships to support children and families in crisis-prone areas.
This message was reinforced by a powerful documentary showing the harsh realities facing communities along Ghana’s northern borders before the intervention began.
The Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Clement Apaak, who attended the launch, acknowledged that many children in the northern border regions of the country, particularly those in refugee and host communities, continue to face severe barriers to education. These include inadequate school infrastructure, a lack of water and sanitation facilities, and food insecurity.
Dr Afisah Zakaria, Chief Director at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, strongly endorsing the project’s vision.
Ing. Perpetual Y. Diabene, the BORDER Project Manager, outlined its scope, expected outcomes and inclusive implementation strategies.
Speaking on behalf of the German Ambassador to Ghana, Pauline Okkens, Political Advisor at the German Embassy, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to protecting children's rights and promoting sustainable development in Ghana's most vulnerable communities.
Several other dignitaries and ministry representatives were also present, including individuals from the Ministries of Local Government, Foreign Affairs, the Interior and Education. All of these individuals pledged their ministries’ support and collaboration in achieving the project's goal.
