Following a Facebook post that made some defamatory comments about the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP), the office has strongly denied the allegations, describing them as false.

The post, made by a certain Nana Ama Osei Kufuor claimed that NAELP was a pseudo-political scheme under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, with staff allegedly receiving salaries without working and campaigning for a political party in 2024.

But NAELP has categorically rejected these claims, labelling them as false and malicious attempts to undermine the programme’s credibility and achievements, according to a myjoyonline.com report.

NAELP was launched in October 2021 under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to to address the socio-economic challenges caused by illegal mining activities in the country.

The programme focuses on reclaiming degraded lands, creating sustainable jobs, and promoting responsible small-scale mining.

In its response, NAELP stated that, "The allegations circulating on social media are a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and discredit a programme that has significantly contributed to Ghana’s sustainable development. NAELP remains committed to its mission of providing alternative livelihoods, reclaiming degraded lands, and addressing the environmental damage caused by illegal mining."

It added that, "The defamatory post alleges that NAELP is a political scheme where employees 'sit at home and draw salaries.' This accusation is false and deeply disrespectful to the hardworking professionals who have dedicated themselves to the programme’s mission. NAELP employees actively contribute to land reclamation, entrepreneurship development, and environmental restoration, all of which have yielded measurable, transformative outcomes for Ghana."

Since its inception, NAELP has created over 80,000 direct and indirect jobs and reclaimed approximately 1,000 hectares of degraded land, significantly contributing to Ghana’s environmental restoration and economic development.

The programme has also made strides in youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.

In collaboration with Queens University and other partners, NAELP has trained nearly 2,000 youth in entrepreneurship, with many transitioning from illegal mining to sustainable ventures.

Partnerships with Anglogold Ashanti and GIZ have further supported small businesses with equipment, training, and funding, creating additional jobs and enhancing economic resilience in local communities.

NAELP dismissed accusations of corruption and partisanship, emphasising its transparent operations under the strategic leadership of Dr Louise Carol Serwaa Donkor.

The organisation highlighted that the list of employees shared in the defamatory post represents legitimate staff who contribute to NAELP’s measurable successes.

The claims of receiving millions in climate funds were also refuted, with NAELP challenging detractors to provide evidence to substantiate their allegations.

In its response, NAELP called on Ghanaians to disregard the misleading information and recognise the programme’s verifiable achievements.

It reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development and preserving the environment while reserving the right to pursue legal action against defamatory content. NAELP also appealed to well-meaning citizens to support its efforts in building a prosperous and sustainable future for Ghana.

Meanwhile, watch as some Ghanaians warn President Mahama of consequences if Betting Tax is not abolished:



AE