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Empowering Communities, Enhancing Livelihoods
Ghana, a nation rich in culture, diversity, and potential, has been a beneficiary of KOICA’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development. As the Ghanaian public, let’s take a moment to applaud KOICA’s remarkable contributions across various sectors.
1. Irrigation Rehabilitation Project
In collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), KOICA launched a $6.5-million project to rehabilitate three irrigation sites. These sites, located in Dawhenya and Ashaiman (Greater Accra Region) and Aveyime (Volta Region), play a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity. The project focuses on:
- Infrastructure Enhancement: Upgrading pumps, constructing drying floors, and installing solar power systems.
- Capacity Building: Empowering water users’ associations (WUAs) and government officials with knowledge and skills.
- Sustainability: Expanding agricultural water supply and promoting all-year-round farming.
2. KOICA Alumni Association Ghana
The KOICA Alumni Association Ghana, composed of passionate individuals who have benefited from KOICA’s programs, has been actively involved in community development. Their initiatives include:
- Educational Institution Refurbishment: The alumni have renovated schools, libraries, and vocational training centers, providing conducive learning environments for Ghanaian students.
- COVID-19 Relief Efforts: During the pandemic, they distributed essential supplies, organized awareness campaigns, and supported vulnerable communities.
- Environmental Initiatives: Tree planting drives and beach cleaning activities demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability.
3. UNICEF StartUp Lab Accelerator
KOICA, in partnership with UNICEF, identified 20 social impact-focused start-ups in Ghana. These startups address Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative solutions. Notable participants include:
- Loozeele Initiative: Supporting young Kayayei (female porters) by providing vocational training, healthcare, and empowerment programs.
- Brox Technology: Developed a student results checker app to improve access to educational information.
- Nnoboa: An agricultural-focused human resource company connecting farmers with skilled labor.
4. Ongoing Support
KOICA continues to invest in Ghana’s development. This year, they’ve allocated $2.6 million to support six projects and 17 fellowship programs across various sectors. These programs cover areas such as:
- Healthcare: Training medical professionals, improving healthcare infrastructure, and promoting preventive health measures.
- Education: Scholarships, teacher training, and school infrastructure development.
- Economic Empowerment: Entrepreneurship training, microfinance initiatives, and vocational skills development.
KOICA’s legacy in Ghana is one of collaboration, empowerment, and positive change. As we celebrate their contributions, let’s recognize the tireless efforts of KOICA and its partners in building a brighter future for Ghana.
