Honourable Christian Tetteh Badger, the Municipal Chief Executive of Okaikwei North Municipal Assembly (ONMA) has pledged his unwavering support to the Bridging Histories Changemakers Programme in Ghana.
Honourable Badger described the programme as a vital step in “our collective efforts to foster inclusive communities, empower our youth, and preserve the diverse cultural heritage that defines us.”
Speaking at the launch of the program in Accra on Friday, May 16, 2025, the Okaikwei North MCE emphasized the importance of reconnecting with the past in today’s rapidly evolving world, noting that the programme aligns with ONMA’s vision of building a unified future through strong partnerships.
“I assure all stakeholders, especially our Honourable Assembly Members and our partners from Bridging Histories UK, of my full commitment,” Honourable Badger stated, adding that “We will engage our communities effectively to ensure maximum participation and the success of all programme activities.”
He indicated that the initiative has been thoughtfully designed to enhance local governance by strengthening institutional collaborations and optimizing resources for community development.
According to him, the shared goals between ONMA and Bridging Histories include promoting environmental sustainability, improving sanitation, and building resilient communities.
Honourable Daniel Dzadey, who Chaired the occasion, also expressed his commitment to supporting the programme’s success in Ghana.
Dr. Joan M. Burch-BRown, the Chief Founder of Bridging Histories, outlined the purpose of the initiative: to help people connect with their history and heritage while empowering them to create positive change in their lives and communities.
The programme is structured around six creative prompts: environmental awareness, traditional recipes, street history (connecting with places), storytelling about family heritage, and becoming a changemaker.
“Being a changemaker,” Dr. Joan explained, “means taking action to positively impact yourself and the world around you.”
Honourable Theresa Lardi Awuni, the Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central Constituency expressed enthusiasm about the programme’s potential to dismantle stereotypes related to race, ethnicity, and culture.
“As we embark on this meaningful journey, I urge everyone to honour our heritage, draw strength from our roots, and preserve our traditions by sharing the stories, customs, and values that define us,” she said.
Mr. Samuel Mensah, the Media Relations officer disclosed that the Ghana Chapter of Bridging Histories would serve as a vehicle for driving positive change and community transformation.
The Bridging Histories Changemakers Programme aims to empower individuals, promote dialogue, and catalyze social transformation, ultimately supporting national and local development goals.
Its broader vision is to create a world where people are rooted in their heritage, celebrated for their identities, and empowered to be changemakers in their communities.
Present at the launch were the Municipal Coordinating Director of the Assembly, Mr. Francis K. Mensah, Mr. John Rash, the Bridging Histories Country Director, Assembly Members, traditional rulers, Heads of Department and Units of the Assembly, staff, staff and students of educational institutions in the Municipality among others.
SOURCE: onma.gov.gh
By Jeffrey De-Graft Johnson, AD IIB
