Ada, Ghana – October 27, 2025: In a landmark event to empower local communities and foster sustainable development, the people of Ada have inaugurated the Ada Central Development Foundation (ACDF): a homegrown initiative designed to coordinate and drive transformative projects across the Ada Traditional Area.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Community grounds, brought together traditional leaders, government officials, development partners, and citizens from across the district, all united by a shared vision of building a stronger and self-reliant Ada.
Championing Locally-Led Development
The ACDF is the product of extensive, one and half years of consultations between the Ghana Philanthropy Forum, traditional authorities, local government representatives, youth groups, women’s associations, and development experts. The foundation aims to serve as a central platform for mobilizing resources, coordinating community-driven initiatives, and partnering with both public and private stakeholders to address pressing development challenges in education, health, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
The event was chaired by Nene Alhaji Shamsumdeen Adjovu I, who emphasised on the importance of Unity and peace in driving the desired development in the Ada traditional Area.
Speaking at the inauguration, Nene Korle V, representing His royal majesty, Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III, Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area and President of the Ada Traditional Council, emphasised that the creation of the foundation marks should new era of self-determination and collective responsibility for the people of Ada. That, development in ADA has been stagnant for too long a time. He promised his support for the Foundation.
Nene Dameh Sewu III, Togbloku Okor Matser and Executive Secretary, Ada Community Chiefs Association expressed great delight for the establishment of the Foundation which he believes will help drive development in many communities in the traditional area. He added, “we gather not just to witness a launch but to declare a new chapter in our story- a chapter where unity becomes our strength, and development becomes our shared mission. “The Ada Central Development Foundation is more than an institution; it is a symbol of our collective will. It reflects the rising spirit of Ada: bold, resilient, and ready to shape its destiny. From the wisdom of our elders to the energy of our youth, every voice matters. Every hand is needed.”
Professor Prince Boateng, Principal of the Ada College of Education, in his very eloquent presentation stated that, the establishment of the ADA Central Development Foundation is not just an event, but rather a statement of intend, a declaration that the future of ADA will be shaped, but not by chance, but by our conscious collective choices, a testament of organized strategic Philanthropy involving the pulling together of our collective resources, intellect, time, money, etc. He further encouraged the community to consolidate its development efforts through the foundation.
Mr. Bright Alieu Issahaku, PRO Ada East Education office, in his very elaborate presentation on the state of academic performances of the district, expressed assistance to curb the current challenges in the traditional area.
Dr. Ben Ocra, the President of the Ghana Philanthropy Forum, noted that “For too long, our development has depended on external interventions that don’t always reflect our priorities,” he said. “The Ada Central Development Foundation should be one of the main vehicles through which the people of Ada, can take ownership of our future and build a legacy for generations to come.” Dr. Ocra added, “the foundation will operate as an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization with transparent governance structures to ensure accountability and community participation. It will work closely with district authorities, the private sector, civil society, and development agencies to design and implement strategic programs that align with Ada’s unique social and economic context.”
A Call to Action
The event also served as a rallying call for all Ada citizens at home and abroad to contribute to the foundation’s mission.
Looking Ahead
With its official launch, the Ada Central Development Foundation sets the stage for a new model of community-led growth — one that prioritizes inclusivity, accountability, and local innovation. As the people of Ada unite behind this vision, the foundation is poised to become a catalyst for lasting change and a model for locally-led development across Ghana.
The Ghana Philanthropy Forum (GPF) is a national network dedicated to promoting strategic philanthropy, social investment, and sustainable development. GPF’s ability to forge and maintain partnerships with international philanthropy networks, such as the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, African Philanthropy Network, WINGS (Worldwide Initiatives for Grantmaker Support) and the Charity Aids Foundation (CAF-Global) strengthens its reach and impact by leveraging global best practices. GPF is one of three international partners of the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF). in Africa.
The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) exists to accelerate progress in society towards a fair and sustainable future for all. Over the last 100 years, the foundation has led the way in developing innovative approaches to giving. Annually, CAF distributes over to social purpose organisations around the globe. As a leading charity operating in the UK, US and Canada, CAF works at the centre of the giving world. CAF partners with corporate and individual donors to enable them to give more effectively, strategically and impactfully. This includes connecting CAF to charities globally and providing access to our in-depth sector knowledge, governance expertise and innovative giving solutions.
For more information about the Campus Philanthropy Fund, visit www.ghanaphilanthropy.org or email info@ghanaphilanthropy.org or call 0244908608
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