As part of its Building Resilience Against Violent Extremism (BRAVE) project, STAR-Ghana Foundation has formed and enhanced the capacity of ten new Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLA) for two hundred and two women across three border communities in Northern Ghana: Sapeliga and Garu (Upper East Region) and Fielmou (Upper West Region). The initiative seeks to build the resilience of these communities against economic drivers of radicalization and violent extremism by empowering women through financial inclusion and entrepreneurship.
The women beneficiaries have undergone comprehensive training covering modules on group dynamics and management, constitution development, decision-making, conflict resolution, record-keeping, and VSLA operations, including savings and loans principles.
During a community sensitization event, Khadijah Abdul-Samed, Project Officer for STAR-Ghana Foundation, highlighted the critical role of economic empowerment in countering violent extremism. "Supporting women and young people in establishing sustainable businesses and attaining financial independence is one of the most effective strategies to mitigate the economic drivers of radicalization," she emphasized. The VSLA initiative encourages beneficiaries to mobilize savings for business investment, strengthen household financial security, and foster social support. Each group will also receive a revolving fund from STAR-Ghana Foundation, reinforcing their financial sustainability.
Beyond economic benefits, the initiative is designed to enhance social cohesion, self-reliance, and leadership skills—key elements in countering violent extremism. Frederick Nuuri-Teg, Northern Ghana Projects Manager for STAR-Ghana Foundation, urged beneficiaries to uphold the principles of VSLAs and ensure inclusivity within their groups. He officially presented VSLA kits and constitutions to the management committees of each group and encouraged the women to remain committed to the savings requirements. Additionally, he appealed to men in the communities to support the women’s livelihood activities for the benefit of their households.
The Chief of Kugri (Garu) expressed gratitude to STAR-Ghana Foundation for empowering vulnerable groups within the community and pledged his ongoing support.
A refugee beneficiary also shared how the initiative has fostered inclusion and strengthened community ties. “I am happy about the training because I have never belonged to a VSLA group. Now, I’m part of one and can relate much better with many of my sisters. I feel more connected to the community because of this,” said Salamata Hamdu, a refugee from Garu.
