The French Ambassador (left) presenting the award to Mr. Kufuor
The Tang Palace bustled Thursday with leaders from Africa and abroad at the first Impact Africa Summit, some of whom—most notably, former president John Agyekum Kufuor—received awards for their work in improving the economy and communities of Ghana.
Ghana was the premier host country of the Summit, an event celebrating those who demonstrated the “New African Personality.”
The Summit recognized and awarded five individuals who demonstrated the ‘New African Personality’ in five fields. François Pujolas, the French ambassador to Ghana and guest of honor at the Summit, described the ‘New African Personality’ as a person who demonstrates a commitment to Africa’s sustainable development in three areas: economic growth, environmental protection, and socio-economic equality.
Ex President Kufuor won his award in the area of Leadership and Governance due to his continued work to improve Ghana after his presidency.
Mr Kufuor was all smiles as he delivered his acceptance speech for the Ghana Leadership and Governance Award. He stressed the need for the global community to ensure that his and others’ good works continue after leaving office.
“All of us must do something to save the planet which is the home to all of us,” he said.
Prof. Kwesi Yankah, Vice Chancellor of Central University College, received the Ghana Education Award for his work in advancing the quality of schools and education in the rural areas.
The Business and Entrepreneurship Award was given to Togbe Afede XIV, who helped to establish the World Trade Centre in Accra.
Managing Director of Graphic Communications Group Limited, Kenneth Ashigbey, won the Media and Communication Award.
Prof. Enyonam Yao Kwawukume, founder of the Family Health Hospital, received the Ghana Health Award for his work in reducing female and infant mortality rates in the country.
Finally, Farida Bedwei, who is the youngest board member of the National Communication Authority and youngest award recipient, won the ‘Rising Star Award.’
Former Kenyan ambassador to USA, Elkanah Obembo, who presented her (Bedwei) award, called Bedwei a champion and a role model for individuals with physical disabilities.
According to Obembo, Bedwei has helped over 130 companies in Ghana through her technical and logistical services.
Apart from the award ceremony, the Summit also highlighted the areas in which Ghana can improve to meet the 17 SDGs in the next 15 years.
Speakers concluded the Summit by reminding the audience that world leaders and citizens alike need to work towards positive, sustainable development not just for themselves but for future generations. The focus, then, must be on ensuring future generations have the opportunity to continue with the good works started by their contemporaries.
BY Derek Maiolo & Melvin Tarlue