LEAP allocation rises, more vulnerable households to benefit-Gender Minister

By Patrick Biddah

In a significant move to strengthen social protection for Ghana’s most vulnerable, the Government, has increased the annual budget for the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme by 30.8percent, raising the allocation from GH₵728.8 million in 2024 to GH₵953.5 million in 2025.

This boost comes alongside a planned scale-up in coverage, with the number of beneficiary households expected to rise from 350,000 to 400,000 by the end of the year.

The latest disbursement, which began on Monday, June 23, 2025, marks the 96th payment cycle of the programme and will reach 350,000 households across all 260 districts.

Speaking at the official launch of the disbursement, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, emphasized the government’s commitment to cushioning low-income families against the rising cost of living.

A key measure introduced is the indexation of LEAP grants against inflation, meaning cash transfers have been increased to better reflect current economic realities.

Monthly cash support has risen across all categories:

“from GH₵256 to GH₵320 for single-member households”, she noted .

She further indicated that itt has increased from GH₵304 to GH₵380 for two-member households and from GH₵352 to GH₵440 for three-member households as well as from GH₵424 to GH₵530 for households with four or more vulnerable persons

“The LEAP Programme targets orphans and vulnerable children, the elderly without support, persons with severe disabilities who cannot work, and extremely poor pregnant and lactating mothers”, she emphasized.

“For these groups, the monthly stipends serve as a lifeline, enabling access to food, healthcare, schooling, and income-generating activities”, the Minister added.

Minister Lartey however urged recipients to prioritize nutrition, children’s education, and financial planning, noting that “this is not just a handout, but a step toward sustainable empowerment.”

The 96th cycle disbursement alone involves GH₵139.3 million in payments to vulnerable households, reflecting the government’s ongoing strategy to fight extreme poverty and support inclusive development through social safety nets.

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