Assessment of Poverty Levels in Selected Districts of Rural Ghana

Abstract

Major studies and statistical evidence on the subject of poverty in Ghana have indicated poverty is on the decline but agree that there exists geographical imbalance in the distribution. The perceptions of the poor on formal poverty reduction institutions are largely that of ineffectiveness and irrelevance in their lives as government poverty reduction activities contributes little in their struggles to survive and rarely help them to escape poverty. As a result, the study made an independent assessment of poverty levels in some selected districts of Ghana.The three dimensions of poverty were considered in the assessment process using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The FGT method of poverty assessment was paramount in indicating the level, the severity and inequality among the poor. The result shows that while national poverty is declining geographical imbalances in poverty do not only exist but is worsening. Purposive projects to lift the poor in these areas are highly recommended.

Keywords:  Poverty levels, Dimensions of poverty, FGT Method, Selected Districts, Ghana.