Accra: Mr Bernard Anaba, Head of Programmes at ISODEC, an NGO, highlighted the significant contributions of the Ford Foundation in supporting social and economic justice initiatives across Ghana, West Africa, and globally. Speaking at an event in Dodowa, Accra, Mr Anaba commemorated the Foundation's 65-year presence in West Africa under the theme: 'From Nation Building to Social Justice'.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Ford Foundation has been instrumental in aiding ISODEC to combat inequalities, injustices, and poverty through enhanced governance of natural resources and fiscal transparency. The event, which gathered leaders and stakeholders from the Civil Society Organizations sector, celebrated the Foundation's legacy in promoting social justice and sustainable development.
Mr Anaba noted that the Ford Foundation has played a crucial role in enabling marginalized groups in Ghana to access vital resources such as land, credit, and essential services like healthcare and education. Since partnering with ISODEC in 2014, the Foundation's influence has expanded across environmental, natural resource, and social justice sectors.
The Ford Foundation's commitment to meaningful civic engagement as a pathway to equity was emphasized, highlighting its potential to empower under-represented and marginalized communities. In collaboration with other philanthropists like Luminate and the Open Society Foundations, the Foundation launched a $20 million West Africa Democracy Fund to strengthen democracy across the region.
Mr Ignatius Godfrey Dordoe, District Chief Executive of Shai Osudoku Assembly, acknowledged the Ford Foundation's legacy in empowering leaders and supporting movements that advance human dignity and democratic governance. He emphasized the cultural and environmental significance of Dodowa's land and forest, urging efforts against environmental degradation.
In a joint effort with ISODEC and stakeholders like the Forestry Commission, the Foundation initiated a tree-planting project within the Shai-Osudoku District Assembly's premises to promote environmental sustainability and climate justice.
