By Ernest Nutsugah
Accra, March 26, GNA – Mr Rolf Olson, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Ghana, has urged newly sworn‑in Peace Corps Volunteers to serve with dedication and strengthen partnerships across the country.
Speaking at the swearing‑in ceremony of 30 volunteers in Accra on Thursday, Mr Olson described the 65‑year history of the Peace Corps in Ghana as a symbol of enduring friendship between the two nations.
He encouraged the new cohort to help address local challenges by working closely with communities.
“As volunteers, you will bring your expertise, creativity and compassion to drive innovation and strengthen American‑Ghanaian partnership.
“You are here because the Ghanaian community asked for you. We expect you to work hand‑in‑hand with the communities to support their locally identified needs and aspirations,” he said.
The volunteers, who have completed a 10‑week training programme, will serve for two years in the Agriculture, Health and Education sectors.
Mr Olson described the Peace Corps as a successful model of cross‑cultural adaptation and urged the new team to uphold the legacy of more than 5,000 volunteers who have served in Ghana since 1961.
“The impact of Peace Corps volunteers in Ghana is unmistakable. Across generations, Ghanaians share heartfelt memories of volunteers who shaped their futures…History has captured what the essence of 65 years of partnership truly means,” he noted.
Mr Olson commended former volunteers for their contributions and urged the new members to strive for excellence and overcome challenges they might encounter.
“The Peace Corps programme is one of service, deeply rooted in the belief that collaboration and community can bring about that brighter future we all strive for,” he said.
Dr Grace Ayensu‑Danquah, Deputy Minister of Health, praised the role of Peace Corps volunteers in strengthening the health sector.
She urged the new members to focus on public health challenges, particularly water, sanitation, and hygiene, to help reduce preventable diseases.
“Partnerships like this endure because they are built on trust, collaboration, and shared purpose…as you take your oath today, your journey will challenge you but it may also become the tough job you will ever love, as the Peace Corps motto says,” she stated.
Dr Clement Apaak, Deputy Minister of Education, paid tribute to past and present leaders of the initiative, describing the programme as a strong example of mutual respect and international collaboration.
Mr. Eric Opoku, Minister for Agriculture, in a speech delivered on his behalf, expressed confidence that the volunteers’ mission would create a lasting impact in communities.
Ms Augustina Ayisala, Training Manager, commended the volunteers for their resilience during training and for chosing a path of service.
Ms Tamu Daniel, Country Director of Peace Corps Ghana, described the swearing‑in as an opportunity for the volunteers to contribute to national development in diverse ways.
The United States Peace Corps, established in 1961, is a federal agency dedicated to promoting international peace, friendship and sustainable development.
Volunteers live and work alongside local communities to support capacity building, address critical needs, and foster mutual understanding.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey