ASSESSING THE EFFECTS OF RURAL ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME ON POVERTY REDUCTION IN THE TANO-NORTH DISTRICT

ABSTRACT

The main objective of this study was to assess the effect of Rural Enterprise Programme on poverty reduction in Tano-North District. Using a stratified sampling technique, one hundred and forty five (145) respondents made up of oil palm extractors and oil palm farmers, as well as Rural Enterprise staff were sampled from the study’s target population of 220. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in probing the research questions of how the Rural Enterprise Programme have affected poverty reduction in Tano-North District. Interview schedule and questionnaires were the main instruments used to obtain the needed data. The study employed frequencies and percentages in analysing the study’s results. In some cases, direct quotation from the respondents were also discussed in accordance with qualitative approach. Findings of the study showed that although REP has created jobs for some people in the Tano-North District, the programme has failed to improve upon the standard of living of the beneficiaries. In addition, the study found that REP’s contribution to job creation in the Tano-North District was low. The study recommended that beneficiaries of REP should be supported financially by the government of Ghana to enable them expand their business in order to improve their standard of living. It was further recommended that Tano-North District Assembly should prioritise activities that will facilitate the creation of jobs for more women and unemployed youth to ensure their retention in the district for development.