Agroforestry in Communities for Restoration and Empowerment (ACRE) is our food programme in Kwanyarko-Akwamu village in the Asuogyaman District, Eastern Region.

Agriculture is the heartbeat of the Asuogyaman District, providing work for over half of its people through small-scale crop and livestock farming. But these smallholder farmers face growing pressure from climate change, unpredictable weather, poor soils, and shrinking yields are threatening food security and livelihoods. Deforestation and bush burning have worsened the problem, leaving farmlands less fertile and more fragile.
Staple crops such as maize, cassava, plantain, yams, and pepper remain central to daily life.


Women play a vital role after harvest, processing, preserving, and selling food that sustains households and keeps the local economy alive
According to the 2024 Ghana Statistical Service Multidimensional Poverty Report, more than 20% of people live in multidimensional poverty, and those in agriculture face deeper hardship than any other sector.

Poverty hits hardest among women-led households and young people aged 15–19, with nearly two-thirds living below the poverty line.
ACRE is an initiative aimed at tackling climate change and restoring degraded ecosystems through an agroforestry-based food production system
In August 2023, GYEM began establishing a one-acre demonstration farm on degraded land in the village. The farm serves as both a practical model and an advocacy tool for climate-resilient agriculture that protects the planet, empowers local communities, and strengthens farmers’ livelihoods.
Objectives
- Promote nature-friendly farming: Encourage local farmers to adopt sustainable practices that conserve biodiversity, build soil health, and reduce carbon emissions by using the farm as a living demonstration site.
- Inspire the next generation: Involve school children in hands-on food-growing activities, helping them connect with nature, understand where food comes from, and build environmental awareness.
- Increase public understanding: Raise awareness about how agroforestry contributes to resilient food systems and sustainable community development.
- Influence policy: Advocate for agricultural and food policies that support climate resilient food production and create opportunities for youth in agriculture.





ACRE is currently supported by Gower Street and WildRain.
Together, we are demonstrating how working with nature can heal the land, feed communities, and build resilience against climate change.