In an era where youth voices are increasingly recognized as crucial to shaping the future, the Mother of All Nations Foundation (MOANF), in partnership with the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has taken a bold step to empower the young people of Madina. On September 12, 2024, the Community-Based Civic Engagement Program was launched at the Bethel Heights Hotel in Madina, marking a transformative moment for the community. This initiative is not just about educating young people but equipping them with the tools to become active participants in local governance, fostering accountability, and driving sustainable development.

A Day of Transformation: The Community-Based Civic Engagement Program

The one-day workshop brought together young people aged 18 to 35, aiming to deepen their understanding of local governance, enhance civic engagement skills, and leverage digital tools for advocacy. The program also sought to foster critical thinking, encourage collaboration, and build a network of change agents committed to driving development in Madina.

Bridging the Gap Between Citizens and Duty-Bearers

The program was born out of a pressing need to address a critical gap in the community: the lack of civic awareness among residents, particularly young people, about the roles and responsibilities of local government. This knowledge gap has long hindered meaningful participation in governance processes, leaving many unable to advocate for their rights or hold local officials accountable.

The day began with registration and breakfast, creating a relaxed atmosphere for networking. This was followed by opening remarks from Mr. Abubakar Ishaq Zico Newton, the Executive Director of MOANF. He highlighted the critical gap in civic consciousness among residents and underscored the importance of civic engagement in community development. Mr. Newton emphasized the need for youth to become proactive in governance, citing findings from the Community Accountability Forum that revealed a significant gap in civic awareness among young people.

Keynote Presentations

Understanding Local Governance

Dr. Charity Dzradozi of the Institute of Local Governance provided an overview of the district and municipal assembly structures. She explained the roles and responsibilities of local government institutions, District/Municipal Chief Executives, and assembly members. Dr. Dzradozi emphasized the importance of active youth engagement in local governance elections and activities, highlighting how local government plays a pivotal role in community development.

Digital Tools for Civic Engagement

Mr. Daniel K. Selormey, a communication specialist from CDD-Ghana, discussed the power of social media and digital platforms as tools for advocacy. He urged participants to use these platforms to raise awareness, promote voter education, and facilitate community dialogue. Mr. Selormey also emphasized the importance of effective communication, public speaking, and community organizing in driving collective action and advocacy.

Leveraging Digital Platforms for Civic Engagement

In today’s digital age, social media has emerged as a powerful tool for civic engagement. Recognizing this, the program emphasized the importance of leveraging digital platforms to raise awareness about local governance issues, promote voter education, and facilitate community dialogue. Participants were trained on how to use social media effectively to connect with their peers, share information, and mobilize support for community initiatives.

This digital empowerment is particularly significant as it enables young people to amplify their voices and reach a wider audience. By harnessing the power of technology, the youth of Madina are now equipped to drive conversations around governance and advocate for change in innovative ways.

Enabling Critical Thinking and Advocacy Skills

To become effective change agents, young people need more than just knowledge—they need the skills to analyze, advocate, and act. The program provided participants with opportunities to critically examine local governance practices, identify areas for improvement, and develop actionable solutions.

Panel Discussion

A panel discussion moderated by Madam Jemima featured:

1. Madam Doris Agyemang, Director for the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), La-Nkwantanang Municipality.
2. Mr. Abubakar Zagoon, Research Fellow at Baraka Policy Institute (BPI).
3. Mr. Diamond Freeman Mikado, Head of Programs and Special Initiatives at MOANF.

The panelists discussed challenges youth face in local governance, the importance of evidence-based advocacy, and the need for collaboration between civil society organizations and local government. Participants engaged actively, raising concerns about political interference, lack of youth participation in assembly elections, and the importance of timely project planning at the district level.

Group Discussions

Participants were divided into six groups to discuss key questions related to youth engagement in governance. Each group generated actionable solutions, which will serve as a blueprint for future initiatives. The discussions highlighted the need for comprehensive civic education, youth representation in local government, and digital inclusion for marginalized youth.

Building a Network of Change Agents

One of the most impactful aspects of the program was its focus on collaboration and network building. Participants were connected with community stakeholders, social work organizations, and other change agents, creating a robust network for collective action. This network serves as a platform for sharing ideas, resources, and support, enabling young leaders to amplify their impact and drive sustained change.

Outcomes of the Program

The Community-Based Civic Engagement Program has already yielded significant results:

• Increased Awareness: Participants gained a deeper understanding of the functions and responsibilities of local government and its impact on community development.
• Enhanced Skills: Youth were equipped with the skills to engage effectively in governance discussions and advocate for their communities.
• Digital Empowerment: Participants learned how to use social media to raise awareness about local governance issues and promote voter education.
• Critical Thinking: Young people developed the ability to analyze local governance practices and advocate for meaningful improvements.

Recommendations for Sustained Impact

Based on the group discussions, the following recommendations were made:

1. Implement comprehensive civic education programs in schools and communities to raise awareness of local governance and encourage youth participation.
2. Create platforms for youth representation at the local government level, such as youth councils or advisory boards.
3. Promote digital inclusion by providing access to computers, internet, and training on digital literacy for marginalized youth.
4. Support the capacity-building of civil society organizations to effectively advocate for youth participation and accountability in local governance.
5. Advocate for measures to reduce political interference in local governance and ensure that elections are fair and transparent.

Conclusion

The Community-Based Civic Engagement Program represents a vital step toward empowering Madina’s youth to take an active role in local governance. By equipping them with knowledge, skills, and networks, the program has laid the foundation for a more accountable, transparent, and responsive local government.

As these young leaders continue to engage with their communities and advocate for change, they have the potential to transform Madina into a more vibrant and prosperous place for all. The Mother of All Nations Foundation remains committed to supporting this journey, ensuring that the voices of young people are not just heard but are also instrumental in shaping the future of their community.

Together, we can build a generation of informed, engaged citizens who are committed to promoting accountability, transparency, and sustainable development. The youth of Madina are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the change-makers of today.