The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced a boost to its emergency operations in northern Ghana with a US$5 million contribution (over 80 million Ghanaian cedis) from the Republic of Korea. 

This donation will provide lifesaving food and nutrition assistance to 187,000 individuals who have been impacted by severe drought conditions.

The drought, which has caused extensive crop and livestock losses due to weeks of reduced rainfall, has driven food prices to new heights across the northern regions of Bono, Bono East, Oti, Northern, North-East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West. It is estimated that around one million people, which is approximately three percent of Ghana's total population, are suffering from the repercussions of this climate event.

The WFP's Country Director and Representative in Ghana, Aurore Rusiga, commented on the crisis, stating, “The prolonged dry spell in northern Ghana has created an urgent need for support among affected families. With soaring inflation and currency depreciation, these families are facing a crisis within a crisis.”

In a statement, the WFP said the Republic of Korea's generous contribution will facilitate emergency cash transfers, providing immediate relief to those struggling amidst the backdrop of rising food costs, low seasonal production, and an earlier than usual depletion of household food reserves. 

Ambassador Park Kyong Sig of the Republic of Korea to Ghana expressed his country's commitment, saying, “This contribution is part of the pledge made by the Government of the Republic of Korea, as a founding member of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, to support the Republic of Ghana. Our contribution shows that the Republic of Korea is a steadfast friend of Ghana, standing side by side even in times of great hardship.”

The WFP's efforts in Ghana extend beyond immediate relief, focusing on fostering economic self-reliance through technical assistance and strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing nutrition, food systems, social protection, and social cohesion.