LocationsEmpowering Border Communities: UNDP Hands Over Livelihood Support Items and Office Equipment in Sawla–Tuna–Kalba and Tempane Districts
September 1, 2025
Group photo of participants
Peace and security remain essential for sustainable development, especially in Ghana’s border districts, where communities face challenges of poverty, conflict, and the threat of violent extremism. As part of the Preventive Approach to Protecting Development in the Gulf of Guinea (Prevention Facility) project, UNDP Ghana, with funding from the Governments of Denmark, Luxembourg, and the Republic of Korea, officially handed over essential livelihood tools and office equipment to Sawla–Tuna–Kalba Districts on 20 August 2025, and Tempane District on 21 August 2025.
The two (2) District Assemblies received a motorbike, a laptop, and a printer each to strengthen local governance and improve service delivery. The Ghana Police Service and Immigration Service in both districts were also supported with motorbikes to enhance mobility, improve security, and prevent cross-border crime. To support women and youth, the Bundi, Kpali, SaruKonhinyiri, Lewurinten, and Dobodarikura communities in Sawla–Tuna–Kalba, as well as Nisum, Wuriyanga, and Basyonde in Tempane, received tricycles, grinding mills, shea butter, and groundnut processing machines aimed at enhancing the value chain for economic gains and strengthening livelihoods.
In Sawla–Tuna–Kalba, community members expressed optimism that the support would transform lives. Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Simon Mwaasor thanked UNDP Ghana for the intervention and promised that the livelihood equipment would be used judiciously while appealing for more support in the future.
The District Chief Executive of Sawla–Tuna–Kalba, Hon. Sinkina Saaka, also expressed his gratitude, noting that “We thank UNDP Ghana for recognizing Sawla–Tuna–Kalba. Our district faces many challenges, and this intervention will go a long way in lifting our people out of poverty. As a District Assembly, we will ensure these tools are maximized so that development partners see the impact and continue to invest in our communities.”
District Chief Executive of Sawla–Tuna–Kalba, Hon. Sinkina Saaka, delivering his remarks
In Tempane, the support reached the Tubong, Wuriyanga, and Basyonde electoral areas. Sharing the perspective of the beneficiaries, Haruna Asaana, Assembly Member for Basyonde electoral area, highlighted: “These items will make a big difference in our communities. The tricycles and groundnut processing machines will help women and young people increase their earnings and improve their livelihoods. On behalf of my community, I thank UNDP Ghana and the supporting governments for remembering us. We will make sure the items are put to good use to benefit as many people as possible.”
Haruna Asaana, Assembly Member for Basyonde Electoral Area, expressing his gratitude to the participants
The District Chief Executive of Tempane also expressed his gratitude, stating, “I want to thank UNDP Ghana for the continuous support. Earlier, they provided improved seeds to our women, and today they are here again to do more. All these interventions are geared towards improving the lives of our people. The items we are receiving today must be taken good care of so that our donors will be proud of the impact their support is making in improving livelihoods. As a District Assembly, we will intensify monitoring to ensure these items are used judiciously.”
District Chief Executive of Tempane, Honorable Joseph Mbillah, delivering his remarks
On behalf of UNDP Ghana, Dr. Edward Ampratwum, Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to both development and peacebuilding. He indicated, “Today marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to promoting sustainable stability. As we officially hand over these items to support women and youth, we are not only enhancing livelihoods but also strengthening the foundations of peace. Together with the National Peace Council, we started this work by building the capacities of communities to be resilient and to serve as our eyes and ears on the ground, supporting both the security services and the District Assembly in addressing violent extremism and organized crime. At UNDP Ghana, we know we cannot do this alone. We remain committed to building sustainable peace by working with partners and communities to prevent conflict in border areas.”
Dr. Edward Ampratwum, Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance, delivering his remarks
By combining livelihood support with stronger local governance and security, the Prevention Facility project is helping border communities like Sawla–Tuna–Kalba and Tempane become more resilient against violent extremism. With continued support from the partners, UNDP remains committed to empowering communities, strengthening peace, and unlocking opportunities for women and youth
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