GWYESCO adopts performance-based funding model

The Ghana Women and Youth Employment and Social Cohesion (GWYESCO) programme will tie financing to verified results rather than activities undertaken, the Social Investment Fund has announced.

Chief Executive Director of the Social Investment Fund, Nurudeen Abass, disclosed this at the launch of the Ghana Women and Youth Employment and Social Cohesion (GWYESCO) programme at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra on Wednesday.

Addressing participants, Mr. Abass said the programme’s financing structure was designed to ensure accountability and measurable impact.

“What makes the GWYESCO unique is its results-based financing mechanism,” he said.

He explained that under the approach, funding would be linked directly to measurable and verifiable outcomes rather than the implementation of activities alone.

“This means investments are not tied merely to activities conducted,” Mr. Abass stated, adding that the model would encourage efficiency and ensure resources deliver tangible benefits to beneficiaries.

The US$71.25 million flagship programme is supported by the African Development Bank Group and seeks to create jobs, promote economic inclusion and strengthen community resilience among vulnerable groups across Ghana.

Running from 2026 to 2029, GWYESCO is expected to address persistent challenges including youth and women’s unemployment, poverty and vulnerability to climate change and conflict.

A major component of the initiative focuses on equipping young people and women with employable skills through mass formalisation, digital and creative skills training, as well as opportunities in technical fields, including STEM.

The programme will also support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises by providing access to seed capital, business development services and assistance with formal business registration.

Another key objective is to strengthen social cohesion in vulnerable communities, particularly in Northern Ghana, where the programme aims to mitigate conflict risks, promote peacebuilding efforts and foster long-term social stability.

The outcome-focused financing model will help ensure that investments under the programme produce measurable improvements in employment and community development over the four-year implementation period.