Initiatives of Change Ghana: Brief Report
Introduction
Firstly, we wish to express our sincere gratitude for the workshop that took place in Nigeria. The discussion materials made available to us are very helpful as we go through them digesting, assimilating the content and exploring effective ways of sharing these with group members in Ghana.
National Executive Council (NEC) Meetings
Upon return from Nigeria, we have been able to hold about four NEC meetings, the purpose being to discuss effective ways of moving the Ghana group forward. We realize that we need to organize seminars and workshops for members, based on the outcome of the Nigeria workshop so that the interest and commitment of members will be rekindled. Such workshops are, also, intended to pass on the vision and core values of Initiatives of Change (IofC)/MRA to those who are new. A general meeting is planned for the end of May 2016.
Membership Drive
In view of the challenge of dwindling membership, we are embarking on an aggressive membership drive. In this regard we have identified some strategies: the first one is taking Initiatives of Change/MRA to the youths in educational institutions and the wider society. Secondly, we have identified some committed religious people, who desire to see change happen. We have started sharing with some of them the ideals of IofC/MRA and to invite them to our meetings. We are convinced the programmes of IofC/MRA can create that common platform for them to be involved and work for the realization of their dreams. Finally, we have planned to visit some of the old members who used to be active, but for some reason, have been dormant for some time now.
Launch of IofC/MRA Group at Methodist University College, Accra, Ghana
In order to help realize the above-mentioned objectives and respond to the dwindling membership, the NEC- IofC/MRA Ghana group launched a branch of the organization at the Methodist University College Ghana at a church service on April 13, 2016. Three NEC members took active part in the programme: Rev. Prof. Garbrah spoke to students about a brief history of IofC/MRA, its vision and core values. Rev. Francis Acquah spoke on the need for a change in our time beginning with oneself as envisaged by IofC/MRA. The programme, initially, began with the film “Broken Bows.” Although, the pictures did not turn out well, Rev. Prof. Garbrah gave a moving narrative on the film, which connected with the IofC vision for change. Prof. Assah-Asamoah, officially launched the University branch, and we had ten students and three staff who gave their names to join the group. Our next meeting takes place on Wednesday May 25, 2016. We intend to build on this and use it as a platform to reach students in other institutions.
Involvement in National Elections – 2016.
IofC/MRA Ghana was involved in organizing free, fair and peaceful elections, in the past jointly with the National Peace Council and other religious groups. In a similar vein, we are preparing to play that role with the National Peace Council concerning this year’s elections. We are in a preparatory stage and we shall keep you updated on developments. Do pray with us on these matters.
Conclusion
In a nutshell this is what we are doing at the moment and look forward to breaking new grounds as we move on. Peace to you all.
Francis Acquah
(Interim President, IofC/MRA Ghana)