The Evangelical Presbyterian Development and Relief Agency (EPDRA) stands as the development and social intervention wing of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG). Established and registered as a national NGO in 2005, EPDRA has become a beacon of hope for rural and peri-urban communities across Ghana. Its mandate is clear: to reduce poverty, empower the marginalized, and foster sustainable development rooted in dignity, equity, and justice.
Key Functions and Operations
Agricultural Support
EPDRA operates six agricultural stationsâthree in Southern Ghana and three in Northern Ghana (Yendi, Saboba, and Chereponi). These stations provide tractor services, distribute improved seed varieties such as Obatampa maize, and train farmers in modern techniques to boost productivity and ensure food security.
Economic Empowerment
Womenâs groups benefit from micro-credit schemes that enable petty trading and small-scale processing ventures, including shea butter and groundnut oil production. These initiatives enhance household incomes and strengthen community resilience.
Social Justice
In 2023, EPDRA launched a nationwide project across all 15 presbyteries to combat gender-based violence, child marriage, and forced marriage. This bold initiative reflects the agencyâs commitment to protecting human rights and promoting equality.
Health Initiatives
Through partnerships, EPDRA organizes health fairs that emphasize primary healthcare delivery and HIV/AIDS voluntary counseling and testing, ensuring that vulnerable populations access essential health services.
Our Objectives
- Capacity development for rural and peri-urban poor communities.
- Community relief programs for sustainable livelihoods.
- Partnerships with NGOs, government, and international organizations to establish vocational and technical institutions.
- Advocacy for pro-poor policies within government and the EPCG.
- Resource mobilization through donations, subscriptions, social enterprises, and donor projects.
- Upholding accountability and legitimacy in all operations.
- Maximizing organizational skills and synergy across departments.
Our Vision
âTo raise the human society in Ghana to a level without poverty, where every member can exercise their right to a life of dignity in a sustainably developed environment.â
Mission
EPDRA works with the poor and marginalized, executing poverty eradication projects and empowering vulnerable groups. While its mission is rooted in the Evangelical Presbyterian faith, EPDRA serves all people based on need aloneâregardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or social standing.
Core Values
Social Justice & Equity
Promoting dignity and fairness for the marginalized.
Accountability
Upholding integrity and responsibility in all actions.
Self-Sufficiency
Striving for sustainable development outcomes.
Constructive Engagement
Partnering with government while maintaining independence and the courage to critique.
Autonomy
Safeguarding the agencyâs right to exist and operate freely.
Gender & Diversity
Ensuring inclusiveness and respect for diversity in all programs.
Governance & Structure
Legal Status: EPDRA is a separate legal entity with the capacity to sue and be sued.
Location: Headquartered in Ho, with project offices across Ghana.
Target Groups: Women, youth, the aged, and vulnerable populationsâempowered to become architects of their own development.
Board of Directors: Comprising nine members appointed by the EPCG Standing Committee, including representatives from the church, business development, finance, agriculture, law, and development practice. At least two members are women, ensuring gender balance in leadership.
Financing
As a non-profit organization, EPDRA derives its funds from:
- Publications
- Donations
- Consultations
- Fundraising Activities
- Donors & Stakeholders
- Grants & Loans
- Investments
The Evangelical Presbyterian Development and Relief Agency (EPDRA) embodies the EPCGâs commitment to holistic developmentâcombining faith with action, compassion with accountability, and vision with tangible results. From agricultural innovation to social justice advocacy, EPDRA continues to empower communities, dismantle poverty, and uphold the dignity of every Ghanaian.