Evaluating the Impact of a Positive Youth Development Approach on Rural Youth Employment: Evidence from Ghana's Rural Economy Advancement Program (REAP)

Background: Rural youth in Ghana often face significant barriers to employment due to limited local job opportunities, particularly in agriculture, the predominant economic activity in rural areas. These constraints frequently lead to rural-to-urban migration, where young people encounter new social and economic challenges, such as unemployment, underemployment, and lack of access to social services. This study explores the impact of an agriculture-based employment intervention for youth in Ghana. The Rural Economy Advancement Program (REAP) intervention was developed to support youth employment through agriculture-based initiatives. Grounded in the Positive Youth Development (PYD) framework, the program focused on three core pillars: building youth assets (skills, knowledge, and confidence), creating enabling environments (supportive policies and community engagement), and promoting meaningful engagement in agricultural value chains (such as crop production, processing, and marketing).

Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys (661 youth beneficiaries, ages 18 – 35), focus group discussions (5 focus groups, average of 10 per group), and key informant interviews (20 program implementers and community leaders) across six regions in Ghana. The study aimed to capture quantitative outcomes (such as employment rates and income changes) and qualitative insights (such as personal experiences, perceptions of empowerment, and community impact).

Findings: The study revealed that the REAP intervention positively impacted youth employment and empowerment in rural Ghana. Quantitative data indicate significant improvements in youth livelihoods and capabilities. Participants reported a measurable increase in monthly income, with 78% experiencing an average income growth of 40% within 12 months. Business skills, particularly in financial literacy, marketing, and value addition, improved among 85% of participants. Furthermore, 72% of youth reported an increase in personal savings, attributing this to enhanced income and financial management practices acquired through the program. Qualitative insights highlighted enhanced confidence, leadership skills, and a renewed sense of purpose among beneficiaries. Participants expressed that access to training, financial resources, and mentorship helped them view agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path. Community leaders and program implementers noted a shift in attitudes toward youth capabilities and agricultural work, with increased community support for young people’s economic participation. The program also contributed to reduced migration intentions, as youth found new opportunities and a sense of belonging within their local environments.

Discussion: The study concludes that agriculture when approached through the lens of the PYD framework, can be a viable and sustainable pathway for youth employment and empowerment in Ghana. Key success factors included mentorship, access to resources, peer learning, and alignment with local agricultural opportunities. The findings underscore the need for policy and programmatic support to scale youth-centered agricultural initiatives as a strategic response to youth unemployment in Ghana.