ASSESSING COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN RURAL ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME IN THE TANO NORTH DISTRICT OF GHANA

ABSTRACT There is a growing recognition that community participation is a very important element in achieving the goals of the poverty reduction programmes. But is it only in theory or also in practice? This study assessed community participation in the Rural Enterprise Programme (REP) to enhance participation and poverty reduction. A total of 72 respondents consisting of programme beneficiaries, staff of REP and opinion leaders constituted the sample for the study. Data were collected using in-depth interview, key informant and focus group discussion was qualitatively analysed using narrations and documents. The study shows that beneficiaries participated in only implementation and monitoring and evaluation stages and their level of participation was low. Beneficiaries were not empowered to take initiative themselves resulting in a minimal effect of REP on poverty reduction. The sustainability strategies of REP are not effective because beneficiaries were not involved. The study recommends that REP should involve beneficiaries more in their programme. Start up kits should be given to new trainees to enable them put the skills they have acquired into use. Beneficiaries should be involved in the sustainability strategies to make it more effective.