Libga Dam restoration to empower Ghana's women farmers amid droughts

The Libga Dam in Ghana's Savelugu Constituency is set for major restoration work. The project, led by the Yooyili Pag-Dede Foundation, aims to tackle water shortages that hit women farmers hardest during dry seasons. Plans include de-silting, reinforcing embankments, and adding silt traps to boost storage and sustainability.

The initiative forms part of a wider push by the foundation to support women's empowerment, education, and clean water access. Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz, MP for Savelugu, has called for stakeholder backing to fund the restoration and expand irrigation networks. New dams will also be built in Diare, Tibali, Damdu, and Pigu to ease pressure on existing systems.

The upgraded Libga Dam will feature gender-responsive designs, such as safe, accessible water points tailored to women's needs. These changes are expected to enable year-round farming, lift incomes, and improve livelihoods for over 5,000 women in the area. While exact figures on female farmers relying on the dam are unavailable, regional reports show irrigation projects have increased women's participation in agriculture. The project's success hinges on partnerships and financial contributions from donors and local authorities. If fully realised, it could transform water security for farming communities across Tamale, Kumbungu, and beyond.

The restoration of the Libga Dam and construction of new reservoirs will directly address water scarcity for thousands of women farmers. With improved infrastructure, the scheme seeks to strengthen food production, raise household earnings, and reduce seasonal hardship. The foundation's long-term goal is to create a more resilient and inclusive farming system in northern Ghana.