LEAP to cover 450,000 households as government increases grants – Gender Minister

The Ghanaian government is expanding the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program to reach up to 450,000 households, along with raising the grants given to beneficiaries. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, announced these changes during the Government Accountability Series on September 16, 2026.

She stated that the expansion was based on a nationwide review of beneficiaries using data from the Ghana National Household Registry, aiming to ensure support reaches those who still meet the program's criteria for vulnerability. The revised payment structure for LEAP households varies based on the number of members: single or two-member households receive GH¢392 or GH¢380, respectively, while three to four-member households get GH¢474 or GH¢452, and households of five or more members receive GH¢630 or GH¢594.

Dr. Lartey emphasized that these adjustments are necessary to keep LEAP responsive to the evolving economic situations of beneficiary households. The program has secured funding, and the first and second payment cycles for 2026 commenced on September 14, paid in tandem. Beneficiaries can reach the LEAP Management Secretariat via 0303 969 399 or toll-free numbers 0800 800 800 and 0800 900 900.

The Minister also highlighted that the LEAP program has reached over 1.1 million Ghanaians through a nationwide campaign promoting child rights and strengthening child protection. This campaign reached 1,168,278 individuals, with 291 vulnerable children receiving care, counseling, and education across five residential and sub-vented homes.

The Ministry is also advancing five major bills and policies through the Cabinet this year, including those on early childhood care and development, domestic violence, children’s rights, administration of justice for children and young persons. Additionally, the Child Care Centre has supported 16 children, with six transitioning to stable, long-term care arrangements.

Dr. Lartey emphasized that the combination of policy reforms and direct services aims to strengthen families and provide safer environments for vulnerable children, with ongoing implementation of child protection measures and preparation of the Persons with Disabilities Bill, Children’s Bill, Children and Young Persons (Justice Administration) Bill, and Domestic Abuse Bill for submission to Parliament during its next session.