If I Die I Lose Everything: Understanding Poverty from the Perspective of Ankaful Residents in Ghana

Abstract

Poverty is a condition in which people and communities lack the resources and basic elements necessary for a minimum standard of living. Poverty means that the level of income from employment is too low to meet basic human needs. Poor individuals or families are likely not to have sufficient housing, clean water, healthy diet, and health care. This paper examines the concept of poverty from the perspective of local actors. The study made use of a qualitative approach to data gathering and analysis. The data discussion revealed that participants interpreted poverty to mean lack of money to meet basic human needs such as food, shelter, clothing, transportation, etc. It was also understood as one’s inability to meet desired goals. Among other interpretations, death was seen as the highest form of poverty. Lack of formal education and employment opportunities, the unwillingness of some local actors to work, the disadvantaged position of women, and early childbirth were seen as the main causes of poverty. In dealing with poverty, participants suggested the creation of employment opportunities by the government of Ghana and other private agencies. Acquiring formal education and practicing good financial management were also seen as key to alleviating poverty. The study concludes that poverty is collective among the indigenes, hence has huge social connotations, covertly and overtly.