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.
