‘Development must not always begin from Accra’ — Anwelle Foundation launched in Jirapa

The Paramount Chief of the Jirapa Traditional Area, Naa Di-Naa Donlabong III, has emphasized that development should not begin solely from Accra, encouraging residents of Jirapa to take greater responsibility for their community's progress. Speaking at the launch of the Anwelle Foundation in Jirapa, Donlabong III urged citizens to contribute their resources, expertise, and networks to address poverty and youth unemployment.

The Anwelle Foundation, founded by Frank Anwelle, focuses on tackling resource gaps in rural communities through education, youth empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, and rural development. The foundation has already undertaken various interventions, including emergency support for students affected by a dormitory fire, distribution of sewing machines to vocational trainees, and installation of boreholes for clean water access.

One of the foundation's beneficiaries, Abdul Karim Hakim, shared his experience of receiving financial support from Anwelle, which enabled him to complete his university education at the University for Development Studies. The foundation is also planning an automotive apprenticeship program in partnership with Johani Annie, offering technical training to young people in Jirapa, with a workshop to be established in the community afterward.

Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, supported the initiative and personally donated GH¢20,000 to the foundation, urging stakeholders to develop integrated agricultural value chains to make farming more attractive to young people. However, Puozuing cautioned against overburdening the foundation, warning that excessive demands could undermine its sustainability.