STAR- Ghana Foundation Celebrates 5 Years of Promoting Active Citizenship in Ghana
Story By: Rahamatu Lahi Zakaria
On Tuesday 22nd August, 2023, STAR-Ghana Foundation, officially launched the celebratory activities lined up to mark the fifth anniversary of the existence of the Organization at their office in Accra. Star-Ghana Foundation which started in 2010 as a 10-year multi-donor-funded programme to a foundation in 2018 will be celebrating its fifth anniversary under the theme ‘‘5 Years of Promoting Active Citizenship and Local Philanthropy for Inclusive Development.’’
Speaking during the launch in Accra, the Executive Director for Star Ghana Foundation, Alhaji Ibrahim-Tanko Amidu acknowledged the role of Prof Akilagpa Sawyer in the growth of Star Ghana Foundation from the Programme stage in 2010 to 2018 when the Foundation was birth. Mr Ibrahim-Tanko indicated that the significance of the milestone lies in the lessons the Foundation’s journey holds for the strengthening and sustainability of the civil society sector in Ghana in particular, and Africa in general given that its transition is the first of its kind in Ghana and the 3rd in Anglophone Africa.
He reiterated the foundation’s efforts in working with partners to imbue in citizens the spirit of volunteerism and philanthropic work.
“We are also going to provide support to civil society organizations who want to launch volunteerism initiatives at the level so that citizens get connected to the spirit of volunteerism that gave us our independence We are also looking at local philanthropy and how we can support communities to generate the resources that they need for their development.’’
Alhaji Ibrahim-Tanko Amidu
“So we are looking at volunteerism, philanthropy, and looking at Peace and Security and also ensuring that access to health and education is guaranteed.” He added.
The Chairperson of the Star Ghana Foundation Governing Council, Dr Esther Ofei- Aboagye in her remarks thanked the partners, subscribers and the public with whom they have worked to achieve their goals. “We appreciate the collaboration we have enjoyed so far with various categories of players.
We forged a good relationship with key government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including some that have come about through rather obscure and unexpected dealings such as the National Folklore Board” Going forward, Dr Esther said the Foundation will be working around four thematic priorities including Rights to Services; Civil Society Strengthening; Peace and Security; and Inclusive and Accountable Governance.
Dr. Ofei-Aboagye said it will continue to work and collaborate with key government agencies and ministries and independent institutions like Parliament, NCCE, CHRAJ, EC, and donor partners. She reiterated the need to have stronger CSOs and well-informed citizens as the sub-region faces political instability.
