SOCO Project: World Bank hails Ghana’s social cohesion efforts

The World Bank has praised Ghana for its progress with the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project. They noted that the project has exceeded expectations and met initial targets.

Robin Mearns, the World Bank’s Global Director for Social Development, led a delegation to assess the project. They visited SOCO sites and engaged with stakeholders to evaluate midterm progress. The goal was to strengthen collaboration and explore opportunities for expansion.

Mearns stated, “The SOCO Project is exceeding its targets.” He highlighted its economic benefits in regions lacking investment. He encouraged additional funding to reach more vulnerable districts.

During their visit, the delegation inspected community projects in Jinlo along the Salaga corridor. This included a CHPS compound and a guinea fowl rearing initiative.

Mearns shared Fatima's story, a local farmer who increased her guinea fowl stock from 30 to over 100 birds thanks to SOCO support. He emphasized that her experience shows how SOCO boosts local livelihoods.

The team also met income-generating groups like the Shishegu Soap Makers and toured a new livestock market. These efforts are part of SOCO’s Local Economic Development (LED) component aimed at sustainable community empowerment.

Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John called the project a game changer. He noted it addresses infrastructure gaps and social vulnerability in six Northern regions.

John mentioned that SOCO’s integrated approach fosters peaceful and thriving communities across these areas.

SOCO Project Coordinator Elizabeth Ohenewah Agyei reported significant achievements from the first project cycle. As of February 2025, they completed 489 out of 530 community infrastructure subprojects.

These projects include roads, educational facilities, health centers, water facilities, and rural markets. Agyei also highlighted job creation; over 6,200 jobs were created for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Additionally, 744 livelihood groups received support to enhance local productivity. A second project cycle is now underway targeting an additional 680 subprojects across 48 districts.

Agyei emphasized that “the SOCO Project is about building community ownership.” She aims to strengthen social fabric through inclusive leadership and shared responsibility.

The delegation also inaugurated the Tamale Metropolitan Youth Parliament under SOCO. This initiative promotes youth involvement in governance and peacebuilding efforts.

Nicolas Perrin from the World Bank described this platform as a model worth replicating. He said it exemplifies civic inclusion and leadership development.

The SOCO Project is funded by the World Bank and implemented by Ghana's Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. It operates in selected districts across Ghana’s six northern regions focusing on building inclusive communities along border zones.