The socio-economic and health effects of COVID-19 among vulnerable populations: Evidence from the Ashanti and Volta Regions of Ghana

The Aim of the Study

This study sought to examine the socio-economic (job, income, food price and affordability of food) and health effects (access to healthcare and mental health (anxiety and depression) of COVID-19 in rural communities in the Volta Region and urban-slums in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. It also sought to understand and describe community experiences in coping with the pandemic and how they are participating in COVID-19 intervention processes and owning the processes.

Study methods

The study used mixed method, both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Study Findings

Majority of the respondents confirmed the deleterious socio-economic and health effects of COVID-19 on jobs, prices of food, fear of visiting a health facility even when unwell, as well as depression and anxiety. In addition, younger people (18-32 years), males, urban-slum dwellers, married individuals, the employed and low-income earners (those who earn GHC10/$1.7 to GHC100/ $17) were more likely to suffer from the socio-economic and health effects of COVID-19. Coping strategies such as relying on families and social networks for food and other basic necessities were adopted in the urban-slum and creating locally appropriate washing aids to facilitate hand washing was adopted in the rural community.

How far with the project or what has been done i.e if completed or not

The project has been completed and three papers have been submitted, the links will be shared when they are published. In the coming year dissemination workshops will be carried out and policy briefs will be made available to various outfits.

Funding Agency

WHO: Alliance for Health Policy and Health Systems Research.