The Gonjaland Youth Association (GLYA), a prominent organization dedicated to the advancement of the Savannah Region in Ghana, ushered in a new era of leadership with the induction of its newly elected national executives. This momentous occasion, marked by a vibrant handing-over and fundraising ceremony, took place on May 31st at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra. The event drew a diverse and influential gathering, including traditional rulers, political leaders, technocrats, and youth representatives from across the nation, all united in their commitment to the development of the Savannah Region. The induction ceremony symbolized a renewed focus on tackling the region’s challenges and harnessing the potential of its youth.
At the heart of the ceremony was the swearing-in of the new executive team, entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the GLYA towards its ambitious goals. Alhassan Baba Darison assumed the mantle of President, vowing to spearhead a period of transformative change. He is supported by a capable team comprising Dramani Issahaku Mastana as 1st Vice President, Madam Issahaku Mariama as 2nd Vice President, and Habib Muftawu Borejikpr as Secretary. The team is further strengthened by Mankir Ibn Malik as Public Relations Officer (PRO), Kelly Gbalo Mbonwura as Organizer, Issahaku Ibrahim Bobino as Deputy Organizer, and Braimah Abiba as Women’s Commissioner. This diverse and dynamic team represents a blend of experience and fresh perspectives, poised to address the complex challenges facing the region.
President Darison, in his inaugural address, delivered a powerful message emphasizing the urgent need for bold reforms to combat pressing issues such as youth unemployment, low literacy rates, and economic hardship, which continue to impede the region’s progress. He underscored the importance of unity and collaboration, stating, “Our leadership is not here to reinvent the Association. We are here to strengthen it. We are not here to divide, we are here to unify—and we are not here to coast, we are here to climb.” This call for collective action resonated deeply with the attendees, setting the tone for a renewed commitment to the region’s development. He further rallied the audience with the inspiring call to action: “Let us rise with one heart, one purpose, and one vision: Unity, Peace, Development.”
Beyond the induction ceremony, the event served as a crucial platform for fundraising, aiming to secure resources for critical youth-focused initiatives. The GLYA, recognizing the importance of investing in its youth, aims to channel the funds towards projects related to scholarships, cultural promotion, and the strengthening of the association’s institutional capacity. The overwhelming support witnessed at the event, with pledges exceeding GH¢300,000, demonstrated the widespread commitment to the GLYA’s development agenda and the belief in its potential to effect positive change within the Savannah Region. This significant financial boost will empower the association to implement impactful programs and initiatives, creating tangible opportunities for the region’s youth.
Prominent figures in attendance lent their voices to the occasion, offering guidance and encouragement to the newly inducted leadership. John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, urged the new executives to prioritize inclusivity and focus their efforts on addressing the critical issue of low rural electrification coverage in the Savannah Region. He highlighted the disparity in access to electricity, stating, “Savannah Region is the lowest when it comes to rural electrification. That must change.” His call to action emphasized the importance of equitable development and the need to bridge the gap in access to essential services. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the Member of Parliament for Karaga and former Finance Minister, challenged the GLYA to adopt a long-term strategic approach to development, moving beyond short-term projects and focusing on sustainable economic empowerment. He emphasized the need to cultivate a generation of successful entrepreneurs and create sustainable employment opportunities, urging a shift in focus from infrastructure development to human capital development. He urged the Association to “begin to negotiate our priorities with political parties and demand results,” advocating for proactive engagement with policymakers to ensure the region’s needs are effectively addressed.
President Darison, recognizing the importance of financial sustainability, outlined a plan to secure the GLYA’s long-term viability. He called upon all Gonjalanders and supporters to contribute to a monthly financial plan, aiming to mobilize 1,000 members to commit GH¢100 each month. This initiative, centered on collective ownership and shared responsibility, aims to create a reliable funding stream for the association’s operations, reducing reliance on external funding sources and empowering the GLYA to pursue its agenda with greater autonomy. This approach, founded on the principle of self-reliance, will not only ensure the association’s continued functionality but also foster a sense of ownership and shared commitment amongst its members. As the GLYA approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026, this focus on financial stability will enable the organization to embark on a year-long campaign to reflect on its rich history and strategically reposition itself for the future, poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of the people of the Savannah Region.
