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Activista Ghana Launches Strong Campaign for Youth Participation in Community Development

The Northern Region Chapter of Activista Ghana has stepped up its efforts to encourage active youth participation in community and national development. Over the past three months, the youth-led advocacy group has organised engagement sessions across districts, including Yendi, Mion, Bimbilla, Kpandai, Wulensi, and Kumbungu. These sessions aim to spark interest among young people in sustainable community development.

Activista Ghana Empowering the Youth

The sessions focused on a variety of essential skills such as leadership, communication, advocacy, campaign planning, community engagement strategies, and reporting. Issahaku Abdul-Latif, the Northern Region Coordinator of Activista Ghana, emphasised that the initiative was designed to equip both executives and members with the skills necessary to become effective leaders and change-makers in their communities.

“Our focus is to create a stronger, more unified voice for youth activism in the region and empower our district cells to contribute meaningfully to local development,” said Abdul-Latif. His statement reflects the group’s core mission of fostering youth leadership to address the challenges facing their communities.

Addressing Development Gaps

Abdul-Latif also highlighted the need for greater investment in initiatives that tackle development gaps, particularly in underserved areas. His call underscores the importance of focusing on deprived communities, ensuring that the voices of young people are heard and that they have a role in shaping the future.

A Commitment to Key Issues

The group is committed to championing key causes such as environmental sustainability, sexual and reproductive health rights, and the overall well-being of young people. Abdul-Latif urged various stakeholders to lend their support to the group’s initiatives, which are aimed at building resilient communities across the country. Activista Ghana continues to work tirelessly to ensure that youth empowerment and community development go hand in hand, creating lasting change.

Activista Ghana, the youth wing of ActionAid Ghana, an international NGO, remains at the forefront of advocating for youth inclusion in development processes, ensuring that young people have the tools and support needed to drive positive change.

5 Inspiring Youth-Led Businesses Awarded at the 7th Igniting Dreams Summit by CPI

At the 7th Igniting Dreams Summit held in Wa, the Coalition for Positive Impact (CPI) awarded three outstanding youth-led businesses after a competitive pitch session aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs in northern Ghana. The event, which attracted business enthusiasts and coaches, was part of CPI’s ongoing initiative to empower youth-led enterprises and help them thrive.

Awards for Innovation and Entrepreneurship – CPI

Eight youth-led enterprises competed in the pitch competition, showcasing their potential to impact society positively. Mauvee’s Crafts emerged as the winner, securing the gold prize of GH₵12,000.00. The silver prize of GH₵9,000.00 was awarded to Mani Technology. At the same time, Dee Plastic Waste Management took the third-place bronze prize of GH₵7,000.00.

In addition to the competitive prizes, Zee Farms received the “People’s Choice” award of GH₵5,000.00, along with a consolation prize of GH₵1,000.00. Other participants, including Mariam Millinery and Fashion Design, SunRay Innovations, Kelmi’s Crochet Outfits, and Selyn’s Stitches, were each given a GH₵1,000.00 consolation prize.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Innovators

During his address at the summit, Mr. Isam Nuhu, the Director of Operations at CPI, emphasised the importance of positioning young people strategically to take advantage of the opportunities in today’s shrinking job market. Since 2019, CPI has been committed to empowering youth to build businesses that create job opportunities for others, reducing the unemployment and poverty rates in Northern Ghana.

Preparing the Youth for Future Opportunities

Mr. Banguu Delle, Board Chairperson of CPI, highlighted the growing competition in Ghana’s job market, with a large portion of the population under 26 years old. He stressed the importance of equipping the youth with the skills necessary to seize entrepreneurial opportunities and secure a prosperous future.

Ms. Elizabeth Akua-Nyarko Patterson, founder of the Girls Education Initiative of Ghana, advocated for early exposure to Science, Technology, Mathematics, and Engineering (STEM) education. She proposed introducing STEM education at the pre-primary level better to prepare the next generation for a rapidly evolving world.

Strengthening the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Alhaji Inusah Mahama, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), discussed the need for investing in skills development, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and market access to ensure youth can thrive as job creators. The NYA is committed to collaborating with development partners to create an environment where young people can flourish as entrepreneurs.

A Partnership for Change

CPI organised the summit in partnership with several organisations, including the Sangu Delle Foundation, NoniHub, the Girls Education Initiative of Ghana, Blue Hill Hotel, Dilight Space, and mNotify. A panel discussion on “The Future of Work” explored emerging trends and the essential skills needed for success in the future workspace.

The Igniting Dreams Summit not only recognised the achievements of young entrepreneurs but also laid the foundation for continued growth and innovation in Northern Ghana.

CPI – Igniting Dreams

3 Bold Actions Taken by the Tamale Chief After the Goat Theft Confession

Two men caught stealing goats in Tamale have been banished from the Chogu community by the Chief following their confession and arrest. Nafiwu Bakar, a national service person with the Bole Forestry Commission, and his accomplice, Rashid Yussif, both from Damongo in the Savannah Region, were apprehended by a local vigilante task force last Friday while attempting to steal goats.

Arrest and Banishment

The two suspects were caught red-handed and handed over to the traditional authorities instead of the police. The Chief of Chogu, along with the community elders, deliberated on the matter and swiftly decided on their punishment—banishment from the town. The decision was made in a bid to deter similar crimes and maintain the peace and safety of the community.

The Thieves’ Explanation

In their defence, Bakar and Yussif claimed they were acting on the instructions of others who had promised to pay them for the stolen goats. However, this explanation failed to sway the chiefs, who emphasised the growing notoriety of the suspects and the importance of taking a strong stance against crime.

Chief’s Warning

The Chief of Chogu reiterated that such behaviour would not be tolerated under his leadership. His primary concern was ensuring the peace and safety of the community, and the swift banishment of the thieves sent a clear message about the consequences of criminal activity in the area.

Abubakari Sualihu Impressive feat: Builds 4-Seater Car Tamale

A local mechanic in Tamale, Abubakari Sualihu, has amazed many by successfully building a four-seater car from scratch using locally sourced materials and basic tools. The project, which took 13 months to complete, highlights Sualihu’s creativity and potential to contribute to sustainable, affordable vehicle production in Ghana.

Overcoming Challenges with Limited Resources

Abubakari Sualihu, who runs a small mechanic shop in Tamale, relied on online tutorials and limited resources to complete the project. The car, which is yet to be branded, was powered by an Apsonic motor engine, inspired by a video he watched from a Chinese YouTuber. Determined to replicate the idea locally, he turned a simple sketch into a fully functional vehicle fit for everyday errands.

“It was a challenge to build something like this with the resources I had,” Sualihu explained. “But when I saw the YouTube video, I decided to take it up. I organised my tools, and with time, I made it happen.”

Despite the doubt from many, it was his wife’s encouragement that kept him motivated throughout the 13-month journey. However, Abubakari Sualihu mentioned that his workshop lacks essential machinery, limiting his ability to expand his work further. Nonetheless, he has already designed two more vehicles and hopes to build them with additional support.

Aspirations for Education and Growth

Abubakari Sualihu’s dream doesn’t stop with the cars he’s built. He hopes to pursue formal studies in engineering to sharpen his skills and make an even greater impact. “I completed my education at a senior high school. I hope to secure a scholarship to study engineering. It would significantly improve my prospects,” he said. He’s now appealing for support from the government, philanthropists, and institutions to help him develop his skills further and contribute to the local economy.

Abubakari-Sualihu’s-Car

Support for Local Innovation

Dr. Vincent Akolbire Atindana, a lecturer at the Automotive Engineering Department of the Tamale Technical University, praised Sualihu’s efforts. He noted that despite limited resources, Sualihu’s work was commendable. “There is a lot to be done structure-wise, but the best engineers in the world started with small projects and kept researching to improve. If he gets the right support, he can become a better producer,” Dr. Atindana said.

Supporting local vehicle assembly can also boost the local economy and create jobs for many talented young people. Dr. Atindana called on government agencies, development partners, non-profits, philanthropists, and the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly to assist Sualihu in realising his dreams.

Residents Call for Government Backing

The local community has been quick to praise Sualihu’s initiative, with many residents calling for government backing to promote local vehicle assembly. Mesuna Jamaldeen, a resident, expressed his hopes for the future. “All the big vehicle brands we see today started this way. This mechanic needs more support and resources to produce more and keep improving to meet modern standards,” he said.

Another resident, Ibrahim Kassim, emphasised how remarkable it was for someone with no tertiary education to accomplish something so impressive. “This mechanic has built something that many engineering students at top universities haven’t even come close to. He deserves attention and support,” Mr. Kassim remarked.

A Bright Future for Local Innovation

Abubakari Sualihu’s success story is a testament to the potential of local talent and the power of determination. With proper mentorship and support, he could achieve even greater things for Ghana’s vehicle production industry. His work serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished with creativity, perseverance, and a little help from those who believe in local innovation.

3 Powerful Ways Seidu Agongo Transformed a Storm-Ravaged School

The morning after the devastating rainstorm on May 22, 2025, Sawaliga Basic School in the Talensi District was left unrecognisable. What once was a vibrant school block was now filled with mangled roofing sheets, broken wooden beams, and scattered debris. The storm had not only left the children without a school but also endangered their lives.

Seidu-Agongo

Seidu Agongo’s Heartfelt Response

When Seidu Agongo, a philanthropist and businessman, saw the viral photos of the storm’s aftermath, he was deeply moved. He could not bear to watch the suffering of the students, knowing they were left stranded in the debris. Agongo, feeling the weight of responsibility as a father figure to these children, said the images were not just pictures—they were his children, Ghana’s future, sitting and loitering in the dirt amidst broken materials. Without waiting for bureaucratic delays, Seidu Agongo immediately took action. He called contractors and set the process of rebuilding into motion.

A Miracle in Three Weeks

What followed was truly miraculous. Within just three weeks, the school was completely transformed. The once-destroyed building was now a modern, beautiful structure. The new roof gleamed in the sunlight, freshly painted walls brightened the classrooms, and sturdy floors replaced the debris-strewn ground. Students who had once studied under trees now walked through hallways filled with hope. This transformation, thanks to Seidu Agongo’s immediate intervention, gave them a new environment to thrive and prepare for their exams just weeks away.

Community’s Deep Gratitude to Seidu Agongo

The community’s appreciation for Seidu Agongo’s generosity was overwhelming. During the commissioning of the refurbished school, elders and residents praised him for his timely intervention. Seidu Agongo’s commitment to the students’ education and well-being was honoured with a citation, a sheep, and a smock—symbols of deep respect and gratitude for his compassionate action.

Restoring Education’s Foundation

While challenges like space constraints remained—three classes still shared one room—the foundation for learning had been restored. The students now had the hope of a better future, and the teachers had renewed purpose. Seidu Agongo’s work not only repaired a school but also reignited the community’s belief in the power of kindness and action. As he humbly stated, “Education is the foundation of our nation’s future, and if we can intervene to help, it helps.”

A Legacy of Compassion

The transformation of Sawaliga Basic School under Seidu Agongo’s guidance stands as a testament to the power of compassion and community action. His kindness turned what seemed like an impossible crisis into an inspiring story of resilience and hope. The students now walk into classrooms filled with potential, and their dreams of a brighter future have been restored. Seidu Agongo’s story reminds us all that sometimes, the most powerful changes come from the least expected places, and through kindness, lives can be transformed.

5 Powerful Health Tips from Dr. Malcolm Mambuoraa Dery to Avoid Lifestyle Diseases

Dr. Malcolm Mambuoraa Dery, a Medical Doctor at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), recently warned the public about the dangers of lifestyle diseases, which are primarily caused by daily habits. He emphasised that maintaining healthy routines can help prevent a wide range of health problems, such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

Dr-Malcolm-Mambuoraa-Dery

Healthy Habits for Disease Prevention by 5 Dr. Malcolm Mambuoraa Dery

During an awareness session at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Tamale, Dr. Dery explained how making small changes in daily habits can significantly improve overall health. He highlighted the importance of controlling one’s lifestyle to avoid developing chronic diseases. His advice centred around taking responsibility for one’s health through mindful choices and regular health monitoring.

The Importance of Regular Exercise

Dr. Malcolm Mambuoraa Dery encouraged the public to engage in daily physical activity, such as walking and jogging. Reducing long periods of sitting can help maintain a healthy body weight, reduce the risk of obesity, lower cholesterol levels, and improve both physical and mental strength. Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle.

Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Choices

In addition to exercise, Dr. Dery recommended specific dietary changes. He suggested eating foods low in carbohydrates and rich in protein. Reducing oil intake, while increasing the consumption of green leafy vegetables and fruits, is essential for long-term health. He also urged the public to avoid junk food, sugary drinks, and excessive salt or sugar in their meals.

Avoiding Harmful Habits

Dr. Dery strongly advised against smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, both of which contribute to several lifestyle diseases. Instead, he urged individuals to focus on healthy, balanced habits that promote overall wellness. Drinking plenty of water was another key recommendation for staying hydrated and supporting the body’s natural processes.

Regular Health Checkups

Finally, Dr. Dery emphasised the importance of regularly checking one’s health status to catch potential issues early. Early diagnosis allows individuals to address health problems before they develop into more serious conditions. Regular health checkups can significantly improve disease prevention and overall health management.

By adopting these simple yet effective lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing lifestyle diseases and improve their overall well-being.

Solar Mechanised Borehole Commissioned in Kandiga

On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Engage Now Africa – Ghana, in partnership with the ASEA Advancing Life Foundation, successfully commissioned a solar mechanised borehole in Kandiga, located in the Kassena-Nankana West District of Ghana’s Upper East Region. This project is a vital step toward providing sustainable access to clean, safe water for underserved communities in the region.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Public Health

The solar-powered borehole is designed to meet the daily water needs of Kandiga residents, ensuring that they have reliable access to clean water. By harnessing the power of solar energy, the system not only addresses the community’s water challenges but also promotes environmental sustainability and public health.

A Symbol of Hope and Progress

This initiative, spearheaded by Engage Now Africa and generously funded by the ASEA Advancing Life Foundation, stands as a beacon of hope, dignity, and progress for the people of Kandiga. It is more than just a water source—it symbolises the positive impact that sustainable development can have on rural communities.

Gratitude to Our Partners and Donors

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners, donors, and the local leadership whose unwavering support made this achievement possible. Together, we continue to make strides in improving the lives of vulnerable communities.

Borehole-in-Kandiga

Solar Mechanised Borehole for Bornia CHPS Compound

On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Engage Now Africa, with generous support from the ASEA Advancing Life Foundation, has completed a solar mechanised borehole at the Bornia CHPS Compound in the Kassena-Nankana West District, Upper East Region. This project represents a significant step forward in providing clean, accessible water to the local community.

A Commitment to Sustainable Development

Executives from both organisations visited the site to assess the progress of the project and engage with local stakeholders. Their presence highlights a shared commitment to sustainable development and community well-being. Through their actions, they are demonstrating genuine care for the region and its people.

Clean Water, Dignity, and Healthcare in Bornia

The borehole project is more than just about providing clean water; it is about restoring dignity and enhancing healthcare services in a rural area. Access to clean water directly impacts public health, reducing waterborne diseases and providing a better quality of life for the community.

Supporting Long-Term Change

This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration between organisations dedicated to making a meaningful, lasting impact. The solar-powered system ensures that the community has reliable, sustainable access to water, reinforcing Engage Now Africa’s broader mission of supporting community development through innovation and care.

Bornia CHPS Compound
Bornia CHPS Compound
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