GHANA

DEVELOPING
COMMUNITIES
ASSOCIATION

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES

BUILDING
RESILIENCE

ABOUT

ABOUT US

Since 1986,

GDCA has been at the heart of Northern Ghana’s transformation

Over the years, we have grown into a leading force for change, implementing a wide range of development initiatives that respond to evolving needs. Today, GDCA serves as an umbrella organization, bringing together several local groups and partnering with international allies to build a future where every community can thrive.

KEY STRATEGIC AREAS

Education & Civic Awareness

We expand inclusive access to quality education in under-served communities across Northern Ghana and foster civic awareness so that children and young people grow into informed citizens who can engage meaningfully in society.

Sustainable Livelihood & Climate Resilience

GDCA strengthens the food and water security of vulnerable households by supporting climate-smart agriculture, improved natural resource management, and livelihood diversification. Our focus is on building community resilience to the growing impacts of climate change.

Civic Participation & Local Governance

We empower communities to take part in decision-making processes at local and district levels. GDCA promotes transparency, accountability and good governance by fostering constructive dialogue between citizens and authorities.

Women & Youth Empowerment

We support women, farmer groups and young entrepreneurs with access to finance, skills development, and opportunities for enterprise creation. By unlocking their economic and social potential, GDCA contributes to inclusive growth and stronger community development.

Organisational Development & Partnership

To remain a trusted voice and effective actor, GDCA invests in its own growth. We strengthen our systems for transparency and accountability, while strategically positioning ourselves in networks and alliances with community-based organisations, local authorities and development partners.

Programmes

PROGRAMMES

Empowerment for Life (E4L)

Implemented in partnership with GDCA, YEfl Ghana, CLIP, and School for Life. The project focuses on advocacy in four thematic areas: governance, education, youth empowerment, and climate change.

CLEAR

A consortium project with YEfl Ghana, GDCA, and School for Life. It works to ensure equitable access to quality basic education for children in deprived areas of Ghana by strengthening transparency and accountability.

PARCS TVET

Implemented by GDCA in cooperation with its French partner, Acting for Life. The project provides TVET training to 240 young people (ages 18–35) from cross-border areas in construction and agriculture, improving opportunities for disadvantaged youth.

ESC Humanitarian Aid

Since 2019, GDCA has deployed volunteers through the European Solidarity Corps Humanitarian Aid programme. It offers EU citizens aged 18–35 the opportunity to volunteer and support our operations.

CLAIM YOUR SPACE

Implemented by GDCA in partnership with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII). The project promoted citizens’ rights to assembly, association, and expression in Northern Ghana by strengthening collaboration between civil society, the Ghana Police Service.