By Michael Kofi Kenetey
The National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, Ghana, Alex Mar Kekula, has reiterated the need for all to come on board and play their effective role to help promote development in the country. He has also advised Ghanaians to play their part for the country to attain developed nation status, adding that Ghanaians must not take pride in always being referred to as an underdeveloped country.
He made the call during the 50th Anniversary Open Day Celebration of SOS Children’s Villages Ghana at the Asiakwa location in the Abuakwa South Municipality of the Eastern Region.
Mr. Mar Kekula hinted that their sustainability for the past 50 years of impacting the lives of children and young people in Ghana hinges on integrity, honesty, truthfulness, and respect for donors and friends of SOS.
The Programmes Director of Asiakwa SOS Children’s Villages, Josephine Afrawuah, stated that the Open Day celebration is not just an event but to celebrate the vibrant organisation, their commitment to excellence, and their collective passion for the wellbeing of children and young people who have needed their care and protection for the past five decades.
Some of the caregivers and the youth who benefited from the Family Strengthening Programme of Asiakwa SOS Children’s Villages also commended SOS Children’s Villages Ghana for providing them with start-ups to become self-established and self-reliant.
Some of the long service location staff were recognised and given a plaque. The SOS School Choir and the School Choreography Group also performed to entertain stakeholders.
The Open Day Celebration, which serves as part of activities to mark the 50 years of existence of SOS Children’s Villages, Ghana, and an avenue to provide information about SOS activities, began with a tree planting exercise led by the Board Chairman of SOS Children’s Villages, Ghana, Christian Appiah, followed by the National Director, Alex Mar Kekula. Others were the Programmes Director of Asiakwa SOS Children’s Villages, Josephine Afrawuah, the traditional leaders of the Asiakwa community, Asiakwa location staff, Asiakwa SOS pupils, PTA executives, and parents.
Some of the seedlings planted included guava, coconut, and sweet berries, among others. They also had an informal meet and greet session, and tour around the location village with stakeholders through all the departments, houses, and the digital hub at the Asiakwa SOS.