Accra, Oct 20, GNA-Accra Impact Africa Alliance (IAA) has officially launched its Ghana Chapter following a day of capacity building and dialogue that drew an overflow audience to the Google AI Community Centre (AICC) in Accra.
A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra said the morning Capacity Building Masterclass attracted young leaders, students, entrepreneurs and professionals for sessions on Artificial intelligence, leadership, entrepreneurship and access to finance.
It said attendance exceeded available seating, with additional participants following the sessions online from the lobby.
“ The afternoon official launch brought together business leaders, educators, creative professionals and other supporters to mark the start of the Alliance’s next phase of work in Ghana”.
As one of IAA’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, the masterclass was offered free of charge to selected participants.
Its focus on accessible skills development and mentorship supports the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision of inclusive prosperity and development driven by African people.
Addressing the official launch, IAA President Mr. Emmanuel Mbansi outlined the vision behind the Alliance and the motivation for establishing the initiative.
He emphasised the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and its vision of “The Africa We Want”, explaining that its priorities inform the programmes and activities IAA develops.
He described an ambition to help young Africans realise their potential, lead fulfilling lives and shape their futures through meaningful work and innovation.
His address emphasised equipping young people to become creators of solutions and opportunities, alongside developing the skills to succeed in existing industries.
Through mentorship and guidance, the Alliance seeks to help them apply their ideas, build confidence and support others in their communities.
Those who benefit from support are encouraged to extend it to others.
The official launch was chaired by Mr. Divine Asiedu, with actor and creative industry leader Mr. Adjetey Anang delivering the keynote address.
Speakers and guests across the day included Dr. David King Boison, Chief Executive Officer of Knowledge Web Centre and Lead Consultant for the AI Africa Project; Mr. Jacob J. Walker, founder of EducateONE; and Mr. Fedelis Dadzie, Technical and Gender Programme Director for CapPlus’ Financial Institution Resilience and Strengthening programme (FIRST+II).
The launch also welcomed Jefferson Kwamena Sackey, communications strategist and former Deputy Director of Communications at the Presidency; Dr. Mary Asabea Ashun, educator, author and former Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Ghana International School; and Mr. Mawuli Gavor, actor, entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Cello.
Their participation brought perspectives from education, public communication, enterprise and the creative industries to the occasion.
Speaking after the launch, Ms. Jemimah Opata, Country Director of Impact Africa Alliance – Ghana, said:“The overwhelming turnout and engagement affirm the urgent need for platforms that equip African youth with future-ready skills.
“This launch marks the beginning of our commitment to build capacity, foster leadership and expand opportunities for young people across Ghana and West Africa. We look forward to deeper collaborations as we roll out our next programs.”
Ms. Opata expressed appreciation to the management of the Google AI Community Centre, the launch chairman, speakers, guests and participants.
She also acknowledged IAA President Mr. Emmanuel Mbansi, alongside the organising team, volunteers and ambassadors, for their contribution to the event.
The event was supported by the Google AI Community Centre and inspired by the Africa Leadership Initiative West Africa (ALIWA) model of values-based leadership.
IAA’s wider mission aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
IAA’s practical skills training and support for entrepreneurship reflect Aspiration 1, which prioritises inclusive prosperity, education, science, technology and innovation.
Its mentorship and planned programmes for girls support Aspiration 6, which places women and young people at the centre of people-driven development.
Through these initiatives, the Alliance seeks to contribute to the human capital needed to advance Agenda 2063’s vision of “The Africa We Want”.
Following the launch, IAA plans to advance programmes in AI literacy, leadership development and girls’ access to technology and mentorship, building on the interest demonstrated at the masterclass.
The Alliance invited businesses, educational institutions, development organisations and professionals to collaborate on programme delivery, mentorship and learning opportunities.
“Young people, prospective volunteers and community members can visit IAA’s website for forthcoming activities and ways to participate.
Impact Africa Alliance is a Pan-African organisation committed to developing ethical, entrepreneurial and transformational leaders.
It equips young people, women and communities with skills, tools and opportunities for sustainable development. Its focus areas include digital skills and innovation, STEM and vocational learning, climate action and renewable energy, and women’s empowerment through digital innovation.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade