Ghana’s former president, H.E. John Agyekum Kufuor among other reputable persons have picked an honorary award at the diaspora African Forum Builders Awards.
The honorary which took place last night Friday at the African Regent Hotel saw some prominent persons who have contributed enormously in bridging the gap between Africa and the African Diaspora been awarded.
H.E. John Agyekum Kufuor, who served as the President of Ghana from 2001 to 2008, was acknowledged for his pivotal role in driving Ghana’s economic growth during his tenure. Under his leadership, Ghana achieved remarkable milestones, including attaining Middle-Income status well ahead of schedule and sustaining impressive GDP growth rates, even amidst global financial challenges.
Moreover, Kufuor’s advocacy for the inclusion of the African Diaspora in Africa’s development, notably during the 2002 OAU Summit, was instrumental in the recognition of the Diaspora as the “6th Region of Africa.” His visionary leadership continues to inspire efforts towards pan-African integration and socio-economic transformation.
Among the other honorees were individuals from diverse backgrounds, each recognized for their significant contributions:
– Mr. Alex Apau Dadey, an esteemed Entrepreneur and Philanthropist, renowned for his advocacy for the inclusion of the Ghanaian diaspora in the nation’s development initiatives.
– Dr. Edem Adzogenu, whose work spans across public, private, and civic sectors, focusing on innovation, economic development, and social transformation across Africa and beyond.
– Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa OON, affectionately known as the “Mother of Teresa of the tube,” recognized for her pioneering efforts in Diaspora Affairs and outstanding contributions as a parliamentarian.
– Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, acclaimed for his instrumental role in spearheading initiatives like the Year of Return project, which brought over 1 million visitors to Ghana in 2019.
– Mrs. Hanna Atiase, CEO of E. Wells Realty & Consultancy, and co-founder of GAREB, honored for her contributions to real estate development and her role in connecting diaspora individuals with opportunities in Ghana.
– Oshunbumi Fernandez-West, CEO of ODUNDE, a cultural powerhouse, recognized for her leadership in promoting African culture and heritage globally.
The event, organized by the Diaspora African Forum, aimed to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional African and Diaspora leaders for their remarkable achievements. Dr. Erieka Bennett, the Founder and Head of Mission for DAF, along with Dr. Toni Luck, Co-founder for DAF, expressed pride in honoring such iconic personalities, continuing the tradition of recognizing exemplary individuals who have made significant impacts globally.
Over the past eight years, the DAF Builders Awards have recognized esteemed figures from around the world, including iconic leaders such as Xernona Clayton, H.E. Joyce Banda, H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and H.E. Nana Akufo Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, among others, for their outstanding contributions to society.
Source: Ishmael Awudi