By Elizabeth PUNSU, Kumasi
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has praised the Rotary Club for its role in advancing socio-economic development. He urged Rotarians to lead the way in spearheading Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) initiatives.
He commended Rotary’s role in the country journey towards progress, urging the members to align their activities with the SDGs. He called on the Rotary Club to focus on initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, equitable education, and broad economic opportunities in order to pave the way for a prosperous future for all Ghanaians.
“Rotary must continue to play a vital role in Ghana’s journey towards socio-economic development by aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals and championing initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, equitable education and broad economic opportunities. Together, we can pave the way for a prosperous future for all Ghanaians. Let us embrace this mission with enthusiasm and commitment as we work towards creating a brighter tomorrow for our nation,” the Asantehene stated.
His words serve as a call to action for Rotary Club members to intensify their efforts in contributing to Ghana’s sustainable development. This message was conveyed during his address at the opening of the Rotary International District 9104 in Kumasi.
He noted that by focusing on key areas outlined in the SDGs, the organisation can make a significant impact on the country’s social and economic landscape.
While commending the club for its contribution, he mentioned that “Rotary’s focus on sustainable water solutions, sanitation improvement, education initiatives, and economic empowerment has transformed many lives in our communities”.
“Access to clean water has uplifted communities and reduced waterborne illnesses significantly. Investments in education through school construction, scholarships, and literacy programs offer hope and opportunity for future leaders to dream big and achieve their goals,” he added.
Speaking on the theme “Rotary: creating hope for Ghana,” Otumfuo Osei Tutu II noted that it is not merely a theme but a mission and a call to action.
The Asantehene further emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in overcoming complex challenges and encouraged the association to strengthen partnerships with government, the private sector and civil society organisations to achieve lasting and significant results.
District Governor David Osei Amankwah of Rotary District 9104, on his part , highlighted his outfit’s commitment to economically empowering individuals by offering microloans to small groups and monitoring their business growth. Additionally, Rotary provides literacy and vocational skills training, along with various social interventions such as education, healthcare and water, sanitation and hygiene projects.
Mr. Amankwah mentioned that Rotary launched the “Rotary Greens Ghana” project, with the aim of transforming the concept of environmental greening from a physical task into a deeply ingrained social and behavioral change. The goal is to plant 100,000 trees by World Environment Day in June 2024. Another notable initiative discussed by the District Governor is the Solar Vaccine Shelter Project, which seeks to provide healthcare facilities with sustainable power sources to effectively store vaccines.
