As the 2024 general elections approach, calls for accountable leadership grow louder across Ghana. In response, STAR-Ghana Foundation, with support from Fondation Botnar, is empowering the youth to take action through its KofKro Project.
This week, youth leaders from New Juaben South Municipality participated in a three-day Advocacy and Mobilization Skills Training workshop. The workshop was aimed to equip youth leaders and young advocates with the necessary tools they need to promote issue-based, violence-free elections and foster active citizenship in their community.
Participants engaged in hands-on activities, learning how to develop powerful advocacy plans, conduct stakeholder analysis, and map out strategies to mobilize their communities. Divided into groups, they collaborated to define advocacy goals and create joint strategies for addressing key local issues.
L/Cpl Bennet Kpobi, a participant of the workshop shared his insights from the workshop “what I’ve learned from this is stakeholder mapping in advocacy. I now understand that some people have influence over certain issues, so you must know who to talk to if you want your issues to go far and be addressed”. L/Cpl Kpobi is part of the Youth Professional Network, an initiative of Divine Mother and Child Foundation (DMAC).
Roseline Enyonam Cosmos-Ganza Ives, a member of Bibiaa Beye Fine (BBF), echoed these sentiments stating, “There are skills to acquire in community mobilization and advocacy if you want to be heard”. “I know there are channels one needs to go through in the community in order to be heard” she added. The enthusiasm and energy in the room was profound as the young leaders embraced their role in championing change.
Funded by Fondation Botnar, the workshop provided these youth leaders with the confidence and skills to take ownership of their future, empowering them to lead meaningful change in their communities. As they prepare to make their voices heard in the upcoming elections, one thing is clear: the future of New Juaben South is in capable hands.
With a focus on empowering young people, STAR-Ghana Foundation is helping to create a new wave of active citizens ready to advocate for accountability and transparency in governance.
