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Miwa Microfinance Initiative for West Africa

Poverty Reduction

Poverty in West Africa is multi-dimensional — it is about more than income. MIWA's Poverty Reduction programme addresses the interlocking factors that keep families trapped: lack of skills, limited access to markets, poor nutrition, and exclusion from community decision-making. We work at the household and community levels, combining livelihood training with social support to create conditions for lasting change.

Poverty Reduction programme — MIWA, Ghana Poverty Reduction · field visit

What we do

Our activities

  • Livelihood skills training (agriculture, small trade, light manufacturing)
  • Market linkage support for small producers and artisans
  • Food security and nutrition education for households
  • Community asset mapping and resource-sharing initiatives
  • Referral pathways to government social protection programmes

Who we serve

Our beneficiaries

Households living below the poverty line, with focus on female-headed households, persons with disabilities, and elderly community members without support.

Where we work

Geographic reach

Target communities in the Western Region; referral partnerships extend coverage across MIWA's operational footprint.

Results

Outcomes & evidence

Draft figures — pending Financial Director confirmation

  • Livelihood skills training delivered to over 60 individuals from low-income households
  • Market linkages established for 8 community producer groups
  • Nutrition education sessions reaching 120+ caregivers and mothers

Questions

Common questions about Poverty Reduction

How does MIWA decide which communities to work in?

We use a community needs assessment process, prioritising areas with limited access to public services, high unemployment, and existing social capital that can support programme activities.

Does MIWA give cash to individuals?

MIWA does not operate a direct cash-transfer programme. Our work focuses on skills, access, and enabling environments rather than individual cash grants. Where appropriate, we link individuals to government social protection schemes.

How can a business partner with MIWA on livelihood programmes?

Businesses can partner through market linkage (buying from trained producers), skills sponsorship (funding a training cohort), or in-kind resource provision. Visit our Partner page or contact us directly.