Accra: The Right to be Free, a Ghanaian Non-Governmental Organisation, has presented popcorn machines and other starter items to selected returnees under the ECOWAS-Ghana Joint Support Project on Persons of Concern (POCs). The donation aims to facilitate the reintegration of Ghanaian returnees through small business start-ups.
According to Ghana News Agency, the donation was sponsored by ECOWAS-Ghana and supported by the Ghana Government through the National Disaster Management Organisation and the Ghana Refugee Board. Reintegration and empowerment of returnees remain a significant challenge on the African continent, including Ghana. Mr. Eric Peasah, the Director of Right to Be Free, made the presentation to 12 beneficiaries in Accra, emphasizing the opportunity to restore hope and help individuals establish their livelihoods.
'As we say in Ghana, 'little by little, the bird builds its nest.' What we are giving today may look small, but with hard work and commitment, it can grow into something big,' Mr. Peasah stated. He encouraged the beneficiaries to care for the machines properly and use them for their intended purpose, making good use of the opportunity to impact others in their communities.
Mr. Peasah explained that the ECOWAS-Ghana Joint Support Project on Persons of Concern is a six-month initiative aimed at providing skills, training, and popcorn machines to assist returnees in growing their businesses. Dr. Nasibatu Taohiru Seallah, Deputy Executive Secretary of the Ghana Refugees Board, urged beneficiaries to utilize the donated items and equipment to become reliable and self-sustaining. She noted that the items were essential steps in improving their status and making them self-dependent.
Madam Grace Akua Pomah, a beneficiary speaking on behalf of others, expressed gratitude to the sponsors and partners for their support, which she said would significantly impact their livelihoods. Right To Be Free/Africa focuses on combating child trafficking and actively engages in empowerment initiatives for returnees and vulnerable families in Ghana. Their work includes providing skills training and vocational tools to help rescued children and their families achieve economic independence.
The organization facilitates education, micro-loans for families, and vocational training, with 100 percent of donations directly supporting the children. Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and reintegrate trafficked children, focusing on eliminating child labor.