ACDEP has been running a number of programs over the years 
with the broad aim of assisting local farmers to increase yields and get better access to markets along with fairer prices for their produce. This has been augmented recently with actions around building and strengthening the market value chains around key commodities produced in the Northern regions. ACDEP has successfully managed programs to tackle some these challenges using both study based and implementation only approaches through our network of regional offices and member stations.
Background
The Northern regions of Ghana are be-devilled with a plethora of problems, which include low agricultural production, inadequate health educational facilities, roads, electricity supply, water supply, communication facilities etc. Whilst acknowledging the historical basis for this state of affairs, it must also be acknowledged that the people of Northern Ghana, governments past and present, and the international community are all pulling resources to reverse this precarious situation.
Regrettably however, the poverty levels are only falling slowly and sometimes continue to rise which is a source of great concern. For instance it is estimated that on the average 7 out of 10 people in Northern Ghana are poor or extremely poor, as compared to 2 out of 10 poor or extremely poor people in Southern Ghana. (Source UNDP MDG Report 2008)
Farming remains the main stay of over 70% of the people in Northern Ghana, providing the needed income for paying school fees, medical bills, casual farm labour, fuel, and other family expenses.
The reasons for this are many and varied but a key one remains difficulty in accessing markets and attracting fair prices for their produce.
To see details of the current and recent ACDEP Market access programs click here.