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STAR-Ghana Foundation, IOM Ghana complete livelihood project in U/E Region
Some hard working women on the field
The Star-Ghana Foundation, in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Ghana, have successfully concluded the Community Livelihood Enhancement Project.
The initiative, which run from April to August, aims to bolster social cohesion and promote peace in the border communities of Namoo and Pulmakom.
Alhaji Ibrahim-Tanko Amidu, Executive Director of STAR-Ghana Foundation, emphasised the project’s focus on vulnerable groups, particularly women, youth, and men who are susceptible to radicalisation and violent extremism.
At the project’s handing-over ceremony, Alhaji Amadu noted that the construction of two fenced gardens, each measuring 25m by 25m, and fitted with mechanised boreholes were developed to support 55 individuals by offering them plots of land for the dry season farming, to ensure sustainable income sources for the beneficiaries.
According to him, two mechanised boreholes, two 5000-litre water storage tanks, and generator sets were provided to ensure a reliable water supply for both the community and the farms.
This infrastructure is expected to be a vital asset, especially during the dry season, improving agricultural productivity and overall community well-being.
To further empower the beneficiaries, 40 tins of seeds—including onion, pepper, tomato, and hibiscus— were distributed to enable successful dry season farming in a bid to improve food security in the region.
Madam Fatou Diallo Ndiaye, Chief of Mission for IOM Ghana, remarked on the broader impact of the project, stating, “This initiative marks a significant step in addressing communal insecurity and enhancing livelihoods in these vulnerable border communities.”
She praised the active participation of women in the project, commending them for viewing the initiative as their own and for working collectively to ensure its success and urged the women to continue to use the platform to become financially independent.
Mr John Theodore Azam, representing the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the area, commended STAR-Ghana and IOM Ghana for the timely intervention, acknowledging the positive impact the project has already made in uplifting the socio-economic conditions of the border communities.
The Community Livelihood Enhancement Project forms part of broader efforts by STAR-Ghana Foundation and IOM Ghana to address the root causes of instability and promote lasting peace in vulnerable border communities across the region
From Geoffrey Buta,
Namoo, Upper East Region
News
Oguaa goes gay with Fetu Afahye
The ancient city of Cape Coast, one of Ghana’s historical cities, witnessed a showcase of the rich cultural heritage of the Oguaa people with an exciting, colourful, and traditional event to mark the celebration of the 61st annual Fetu Afahye.
Themed “Innovate to elevate: Harnessing the creative economy for sustainable growth”, the festival featured a vibrant lineup of events, interspersed with several cultural performances showcasing the traditions which depict the traditional, historical and ancestral heritage of the land.
It witnessed a colourful procession of chiefs and various Asafo companies from the Mfantsipim School junction through the principal streets of the town to the Jubilee Park, accompanied by drumming and traditional dances.
The chiefs and members of the asafo companies were adorned in regal attire symbolising the pride and unity of the community.
Fetu Afahye demonstrates Oguaa’s resilience, unity, and cultural pride as the town welcomed indigenes both within and outside, as well as people from far and near, desirous of participating in the festival.
Various public spaces, including eateries and pubs, attracted patrons, and streets within the town witnessed bustling events with music blaring from the loudspeakers that had been placed by the roadside.
Bakatue
Prior to the durbar was the Bakatue regatta, a canoe race on the Fosu Lagoon, organised by ATL, a campus-based radio station located within the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in collaboration with the Oguaa Traditional Council.
The event saw a thrilling spectacle as the three Asafo companies, Nkum No. 4, Bentsir No. 1, and Anaafo No. 2, battled aggressively on the Fosu Lagoon. Nkum No. 4 earned nine points to clinch the trophy, medals, and a cash prize. They were followed by Anaafo No. 2 with five points, while Bentsir No. 1 finished third with four points.
Orange Friday
Friday witnessed what has come to be known as the biggest street carnival in Ghana, known as ‘Orange Friday.’
It drew hundreds of people across the country. Clad in orange attires, the patrons gathered and moved through the streets of the town, creating a gridlock.
The Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Area, Osaberimba Kwesi Atta II, at the durbar of chiefs to climax the festival acknowledged the unifying factor in relation to culture among Africans and stated the need for Africans to take their destinies into their own hands.
He explained that festivals such as Fetu Afahye offer an opportunity for Africans to remind themselves of the future by working hard and embrace the future in order not to be taken by events.
The Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, in a speech read on her behalf, noted that the festival was far more than a ritual or an annual duty, saying, “It is an affirmation of an identity, a homecoming and a powerful testimony to the wisdom and fortitude of our forebears”.
In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, the Olu of Warri State in Nigeria, Ogiame Atuwatse III, indicated that, the only thing holding Africans back was Africans themselves, which he said, was in the area of an African identity, and acting on that identity.
From David O. Yarboi-Tetteh, Cape Coast
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Chief Imam issues disclaimer on unauthorised petitions
The Office of the National Chief Imam has warned Muslim organizations and individuals against issuing statements and petitions to the Government in his name without permission.
In a statement, the Chief Imam said he had observed that some groups had been circulating petitions, including a recent one on Hajj, using his name without authorization.
He stressed that such actions were unlawful and cautioned those involved to stop or face the law.
The Chief Imam reminded the public that on October 4, 2022, he, together with the National Imams of all Muslim sects, signed a deed and presented it to the Government at the Jubilee House.
The agreement recognised the National Muslim Conference of Ghana as the official body representing Muslims in their dealings with state institutions.
He urged that any petitions meant to be sent to the Government in his name should go through the National Muslim Conference of Ghana with the approval of the Advisory Board of his office.
By: Jacob Aggrey
