28 November 2006
by Martha Twumasi

Accra, Ghana: The Millennium Development Goals could “only be achieved in Ghana if

people are prepared to sacrifice and contribute to the socio-economic

development of the nation” Mike Ajdei, the Special Aide to the

President, said at the official launch of

International Volunteer Day and Coalition of Voluntary Organizations

in Ghana.

He said that, in this era of world economic hardship, “it is only

volunteering and sacrifices that can liberate and propel Ghana to a

middle-income economy by 2015”. Mike Adjei, mentioned that the time

has come for volunteer organizations to be one and intensify their

advocacy roles to make their voices heard.

He however cautioned against intra coalition conflict. “Let your

decisions be participatory, so that it can win the support of all of

you and stand the test of time”. Norma Messam, United Nations Volunteer

Programme Officer, in her speech, said the focus of activities this

year, would be on youth volunteerism. These include embarking on clean

up and painting exercise in selected schools in Tamale, blood donation

drive in collaboration with Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and seminar on

volunteerism.

The International Coalition of Volunteers in Ghana also seeks to

provide a platform for youth volunteerism towards national development,

to design and manage activities and support of volunteerism

organizations in Ghana.