The Divisional Chief of Binduri, Alhaji Naba Akolbila Agetwin Robert , has urged stakeholders to demonstrate full commitment and collective effort to ensure the success and continuity of the Ghana Women and Youth Employment and Social Cohesion (GWYESCO) Programme beyond its initial four year lifespan.
Speaking as Chairman of the GWYESCO stakeholder engagement held in Bolgatanga, the Chief, who represented the chiefs of the Upper East Region, expressed gratitude to the government for the initiative. He described it as a brilliant effort aimed at empowering people, particularly the youth and women, to live decent lives and benefit communities across Ghana, including those outside the gathering.
“We are aiming at getting results from this programme,” he stated. “Ensuring continuity after the four year period depends on us. And if it depends on us, it should be a collective effort.”
Naba Akolbila Agetwin Robert emphasized that the invitation of representatives from various sectors of the economy was purposeful. He called on all participants to show their consent and commitment, return to their respective organizations, and replicate the lessons and indicators gained from the engagement so the programme’s impact multiplies.
He stressed the true meaning of engagement, participants must share their knowledge and resources, after which “together you come into one formidable path.” He warned against treating the event as a mere formality, noting that if attendees simply “sell it into our shoulders” without action, the purpose of gathering would be lost.
On behalf of the chiefs of the Upper East Region, the Binduri Chief thanked organizers for recognizing traditional authorities not only as participants but by allowing them to chair the council. “You have honored us and we are grateful to you,” he said.
He reiterated his appreciation to all gathered and urged them to fully engage with the programme so that its purpose is fulfilled. “The engagement is about to start and I’m calling on you to go with the programme so that at the end you have the purpose of it for which we are gathered here.”
The GWYESCO Programme, supported by the African Development Bank and implemented by the Social Investment Fund under the Ministry of Finance, seeks to create jobs, build skills (including in STEM, digital and creative fields), expand access to finance for women and youth owned enterprises, and promote social cohesion, particularly in northern Ghana and other targeted regions.
by Gayheart Abraham
Source: Mybluewavesonline.com/Maurice Duncan/Bolgatanga
