"GEF SGP is an important partner in environmental management in Ghana because the program creates an opportunity for local communities to demonstrate ownership of processes and initiatives to address local environmental challenges that usually have implications for their livelihoods."

What has been the most significant contribution of the National Steering Committee (NSC)?

"Many of the project proposals that are received by SGP from NGOs and CBOs often set targets that appear to be unrealistic when viewed against the proposed time frames. The NSC has ensured that the targets set by project proponents are achievable by critically reviewing all the proposals. Thus there has been a very high level of efficiency in the operations of the SGP, which has culminated in its great success."

In your view, what is the most unique aspect of SGP?

"SGP works with local NGOs and CBOs on projects that deliver global environmental benefits as well as help alleviate extreme poverty among rural folks. Almost all the projects have capacity building components as well as alternative livelihood programmes that enhance the living standards of the participants."

"In the Volta Region of Ghana, SGP has helped the Woadze community start working on conserving the biodiversity of the Weto Mountain and start utilizing the River Dayi for small scale irrigation to produce vegetables for the local and export market.

SGP has also show the Development Institute what it can do with communities. SGP was the platform for our work and a link to other project funding in the area of natural resource management, biodiversity conservation and environmental education. For us, the Development Institute, SGP was a good starting point."