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The World Food Programme (WFP), with funding support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), has handed over 462 smartphones to SOCODEVI to strengthen digital capacity and promote financial inclusion among women and youth in Ghana.
The handover ceremony took place on March 10, 2026, at the WFP Ghana Country Office in Accra, marking the launch of a programme aimed at advancing digitalisation and financial literacy in vulnerable communities.
The initiative will support 420 Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) across five regions — Upper West Region, Upper East Region, North East Region, Northern Region and Savannah Region. It is expected to benefit about 10,500 people who will receive training in digital and financial literacy with support from 42 agricultural extension officers.
The smartphones will help digitise the operations of the savings groups, allowing members to record financial transactions through a dedicated digital platform. The system is expected to improve transparency, efficiency and access to financial services.
Speaking at the event, Aurore Rusiga, Country Director of WFP Ghana, said the initiative represents an investment in the economic future of vulnerable communities.
She noted that providing the smartphones will empower individuals while also strengthening the resilience of communities as they transition into a digital economy.
Donghyun Lee, Country Director of KOICA Ghana, highlighted the importance of technology in expanding opportunities for women and young people.
According to him, smartphones provide access to information, knowledge and communication, and the Government of South Korea is proud to support efforts aimed at enhancing the financial independence of women in Ghana.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Nicolas Demers-Labrousse, Country Director of SOCODEVI, expressed appreciation to KOICA and WFP for the initiative, describing it as a major step toward empowering women and youth to manage their finances effectively and become more integrated into the formal economy.
The organisations say the programme forms part of broader efforts to strengthen community resilience and promote financial inclusion through the use of innovative digital technologies.
Source: wfp news release
