By Jacob Aggrey
HOPENELI Africa, a project which aims at bringing essential healthcare services to conflict-torn and remote communities across Africa, has officially been launched in Accra.
The foundation launched by HOPENELI Africa, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), plans to donate 140 mobile hospitals to 12 pilot African countries to salvage their health needs while promoting peace, stability, and self-reliance.
The Personal Assistant to the Chief Imam and an executive member of the HOPENELI project, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Marzuq, expressed dissatisfaction about Africa’s overdependence on foreign aid, noting that such reliance is insufficient to solve its problems.
He emphasised the importance of an independent Electoral Commission (EC) that can conduct elections without interference from external forces to safeguard democracy.
“Peace is a legitimate sign of justice and without justice, there can be no peace. We envision a peaceful Africa where sustainable development is attainable. Proper healthcare is essential for this vision, yet many parts of Africa suffer from inadequate healthcare delivery,” he affirmed.
“The EC must act in the interest of the Republic of Ghana, ensuring justice for all contestants in the election. It should be neutral and uphold the principles of democracy and good governance,” he highlighted.
Executive Director of HOPENELI Africa, Mohammed Abdullahi, cautioned politicians and duty-bearers against inciting violence and recruiting youth groups for their political ambitions.
He said the NGO will organise periodic advocacy to preach the virtues of peace and inclusivity to reduce social vices.
“It is their choice. People have the right to make their choice. Don’t coerce anyone. We must understand this. They should have the right to decide their own fate. Politics must not be done by force. Politics must be devoid of violence. Don’t keep your children safe and charge mine to carry guns and cause mayhem,” he bemoaned.
He mentioned that the 12 countries were selected to benefit from the project based on their living conditions and standards of living, adding that the mobile hospitals will be made available for use after approximately 24 months.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of 3C Digital, Ishmael Toe, stated that the decision to launch the project in Ghana is a result of the unity and peace experienced in the country.
According to him, Ghana is a place where the oldest Chief Imam in the world is living; therefore, it is very important to celebrate and follow his vision for the future.
“The chief Imam is a Baobab for us. His life is a Baobab and we need to follow. That is the reason why we came to Ghana,” he underscored.
