Akatsi south: The Atidefe Foundation has introduced a range of initiatives focusing on education, healthcare, security, and youth empowerment in the Akatsi South Municipality of the Volta Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the fifth edition of the Foundation's initiative was held at the Akatsi RC Park, featuring a Youth Empowerment Forum under the theme: 'Empowering Youth for a Purpose-Driven Future.' Mr. Thomas Yao Atidefe, the Founder and Chairman, highlighted the Foundation's evolution since its establishment in November 2022, beginning with the distribution of 610 coconut seedlings. To date, the Foundation has distributed nearly 15,000 coconut seedlings throughout the Volta Region, aiming to create economic opportunities through agriculture and education.
Mr. Atidefe revealed that a previous pledge to sponsor five brilliant but needy students for tertiary education has been fulfilled, with beneficiaries now studying at the University of Ghana and the University of Professional Studies, Accra. The Foundation also donated a modern photocopier and executive chairs to the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Health Service in Akatsi South, alongside sewing machines and sports kits to support skills development and youth sports participation.
The event included cash support for continuing university students from the municipality. Legal practitioners and agriculture experts educated attendees on modern agricultural practices, legal profession opportunities, and the importance of discipline and leadership. The youth were encouraged to pursue agriculture and other professions for personal and community advancement.
Fatahiya Abdul Aziz, Member of Parliament for the Savelugu Constituency and Chairperson of the event, commended the Foundation for its comprehensive approach, combining agricultural support with mentorship and skills development. She noted the potential of coconut cultivation to generate jobs and enhance household incomes, advocating for stronger collaboration among various sectors to expand youth opportunities.
Togbega Dorglo Anumah VI, Paramount Chief of Avenor and Patron of the Foundation, praised the initiative's sustainability and its role in preparing the youth for future challenges. He emphasized the need for responsible utilization of opportunities to foster socio-economic development in Avenor.
Mr. John Paul Semavor, an aspiring Deputy Volta Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), committed to sponsoring two local youths for legal education. Dr. Edem Segbefia, a Deputy National Chairman hopeful of the NDC, urged the youth to seize opportunities provided by the Foundation, noting upcoming development programs to further enhance youth opportunities in the region.
The Atidefe Foundation, established in 2022, continues to implement community development projects across agriculture, education, healthcare, and vocational training in the Volta Region, aiming to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development. The event was attended by chiefs from Avenor, clergy members, youth groups, beneficiaries, and other dignitaries.