In many rural communities across Ghana, women face immense pressure during off-farming seasons. With limited income opportunities and increasing environmental stress, especially from tree cutting and charcoal production, many are left without stable sources of support. At Rescue Mission International (ReMI), we believe that sustainable change begins by equipping communities, especially women, with the tools and resources they need to thrive.

That’s why we launched the Alternative Livelihood Support Programme for Rural Women. This initiative helps women in areas heavily affected by deforestation and charcoal production to shift toward eco-friendly, income-generating alternatives.

The programme connects women with training, mentorship, and practical skills in areas like agro-processing, liquid soap making, thick bleach making, antiseptic production, shea butter processing, and small-scale vegetable farming. These activities not only provide a reliable source of income but also reduce the environmental harm caused by unsustainable practices.

In our first two pilot phases, women from high-impact areas joined training sessions led by ReMI’s local facilitators and community development officers. Many of them are now applying what they’ve learned. Some have started small businesses, while others have become local champions, encouraging neighbors to rethink harmful land-use practices.

This programme is about more than just livelihoods. It’s about dignity, resilience, and long-term sustainability. By offering rural women viable alternatives, we’re helping families build financial security while protecting the environment we all depend on.

We’re just getting started. ReMI plans to scale this programme to reach even more communities, expand training modules, and work with partners to make sure every woman has a chance to earn a living without compromising her future or the planet’s.