Formation of Co-operatives is key to reducing rural poverty

Akomadan (Ash), July 7, GNA- Mr Kwadwo Appiah-Kubi Junior, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Offinso North, has said if given the mandate in the December polls, one of his main priorities would be to organise the productive groups in the area into strong and vibrant co-operatives.

"This, I believe, could prove effective in reducing the high level of poverty in the constituency", he said.

Mr Appiah-Kubi Jnr told the Ghana News Agency in an interview at Akomadan on Tuesday that through the formation of co-operatives, it would become easier for his people who are predominantly small farmers to access credit to expand their operations.

He noted that with the present economic policy direction of the country, the rural poor who lacked capital and the needed collateral to secure bank loans could have their situation worsened unless they came together and pooled their resources.

"Let us remember that the idea that gave birth to the formation of co-operatives in Europe in the 19th century was to stop the exploitation of the majority poor by the minority rich".

Mr Appiah-Kubi Jnr observed that individual approach to attaining sustainable incomes over the years had not achieved much results.