Tamale: ActionAid Ghana, a non-governmental organization, has marked its 35th anniversary with a call for renewed commitment to the fight against poverty and inequality, and the protection of the rights of vulnerable communities. The anniversary celebration, dubbed the ActionAid Impact Celebration, was held in Tamale on the theme: '35 Years of Promoting Gender Equality, Social Justice and Youth Action in Ghana'. It brought together representatives of government agencies, civil society organisations, youth groups, persons with disabilities, and beneficiaries of ActionAid Ghana's programmes.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Beatrice Biije, Regional Programme Manager of ActionAid Ghana, described the celebration as a milestone and moment of deep reflection, gratitude, and renewed resolve. She recounted that ActionAid Ghana began its journey in 1990 in the Bawku West District of the Upper East Region, starting as a small programme before expanding to several other regions. In 2007, it achieved Affiliate Status, becoming a full member of the ActionAid Federation with voting rights at the International General Assembly.
She highlighted the organization's transition from a service delivery model to a rights-based movement, focusing on advancing gender justice, defending human rights, and empowering communities. Among its key achievements are the construction of 42 school blocks, a girls' dormitory, and the provision of 650 bicycles to pupils to overcome distance barriers to education. The organization has also rehabilitated libraries, built vocational centres, distributed textbooks, and supported rural education volunteers.
In the area of livelihoods and food security, ActionAid Ghana has constructed and rehabilitated dams, built grain banks, provided corn mills, trained farmers, and strengthened agricultural extension services. The organization has also worked on water, sanitation, and hygiene, including building hand-dug wells, mechanised boreholes, urinals, and changing rooms to improve safety for girls in schools.
Madam Biije emphasized the NGO's social justice achievements, such as supporting the reintegration of women accused of witchcraft and advocating for the closure of alleged witches' camps. She stressed that their work is far from over as long as poverty and inequality persist, urging stakeholders to strengthen partnerships towards creating a fairer society.
Mr. Clement Naabeh, Head of Field Office of the Food and Agriculture Organization, praised ActionAid Ghana for its dedication to women's empowerment and WASH facilities, aligning with FAO's mission. Mr. Awal Mohammed, Executive Director of Norsaac, also commended ActionAid Ghana for supporting his organization's growth.
The event served as a media soiree to commend journalists for their role in highlighting injustice and giving voice to the voiceless.
