The Official Launch
From a small classroom in July to a public stage in September, Asankare Youth for Development (AYD) grew quickly. Within just two months, the Association had gained members, held clean-up exercises, adopted a motto, and unveiled a logo. The next step was to show the wider community that AYD was not just an idea but a living movement.
That moment came on Sunday, 12 September 2021, when AYD was officially launched in a colourful ceremony at Asankare Presby Primary School, the very place where it had first been born.
A Community Gathering
The launch brought together the heart of Asankare. Chiefs, elders, dignitaries, religious leaders, and opinion leaders sat side by side with young people, parents, and well-wishers. The media was also present, with Adom TV and local radio stations covering the event and carrying the story beyond Asankare.
Dr. George Tweneboah was the guest speaker. Nana Ofori-Amanfo Diatuo, the Kyidomhene of Asankare Traditional Area, served as the Guest of Honour, and Nana Abena Kyerewaa 1, the Paramount Queen Mother of the Asankare Traditional Area, was the Special Guest of Honour.
Nana Ofori-Amanfo Diatuo, Kyidomhene of the Asankare Traditional Area (left), and Nana Abena Kyerewaa I, Paramount Queen Mother of the Asankare Traditional Area (right), seated during the official launch of Asankare Youth for Development on 12th September 2021
At the time of the launch, membership had grown from 18 pioneers to 46 active individuals, each of whom had already sacrificed time, energy, and resources to build the foundation of the group. Their hard work gave the Association the credibility to stand before the community with confidence.
A cross-section of community members present at the official launch of Asankare Youth for Development on 12th September 2021
The Programme of the Day
The launch was filled with meaning and pride. Prayers and blessings were offered. Cultural performances added colour to the occasion. Members shared testimonies, and leaders as well as invited guests gave speeches that recognised the determination of the youth.
Dr. George Tweneboah delivering his keynote address at the official launch of Asankare Youth for Development on 12th September 2021
One of the most memorable moments was the official unveiling of the AYD logo, colours, and motto: “Let’s Arise and Build.” For members, it was more than ceremony. It was a statement that AYD had an identity and a future.
Voices of the Pioneers
“From a classroom to the cameras, from 18 to 46 members, from being unnoticed to standing before the whole town, this was the day the dream became real.”
— Kingsely Boakye Addo, the President of AYD
Mr. Kingsely Boakye Addo, AYD President, addressing the gathering during the official launch ceremony of Asankare Youth for Development on 12th September 2021
A Turning Point
The launch was more than a celebration. It was a declaration. It showed the people of Asankare that this youth-led, non-political, non-tribal group was serious, disciplined, and here to stay. It silenced sceptics, inspired many others to join, and marked a new chapter in the life of the Association.
For the pioneers, it was the moment they saw their quiet dream take root in public. For the community, it was the beginning of a new relationship with its youth. And for AYD, it was proof that small beginnings can grow into something powerful when people believe, sacrifice, and act together.
A group of AYD members in a commemorative photograph with Nana Ofori-Amanfo Diatuo during the official launch ceremony
AYD Through the Years series continues in next part