Newark , New Jersey – In a significant philanthropic gesture, Mr. Abbeam Danso Adjei, the CEO of Ghana Link Networks Services Limited, has donated $50,000 towards the establishment of a Dialysis Center in Sunyani. This initiative is spearheaded by the Council of Bono and Ahafo Associations of North America (COBAANA).

The donation was presented on Mr. Adjei’s behalf by his General Manager, Mr. Raymond Rexford Amaglo, during COBAANA’s 2024 Annual Convention held in Newark, New Jersey, from August 30th to September 1st. The convention, co-chaired by Dr. Yaw Owusu Baah, a New York-based medical practitioner, was themed “The Health of Our People is Our Concern” and saw participation from delegates across 14 chapters in the United States and Canada.

In a speech read on his behalf, Mr. Adjei emphasized the importance of social responsibility and the urgent need for more dialysis centers in Ghana due to the rising incidence of kidney-related diseases. He urged all Ghanaians, particularly those from the Bono, Ahafo, and Bono East regions, to support COBAANA’s efforts to realize this critical project. He also called for selfless leadership to alleviate the hardships facing the people of Ghana and pleaded with the government to reconsider the various tax elements on import duties to ease the stress on the diaspora and importers, who significantly contribute to the nation’s development. Additionally, Nana donated $5,000 towards the project.

COBAANA, an umbrella association for citizens from the former Brong Ahafo region, remains united despite the region’s division into three separate regions. The association’s decision to build the dialysis center in Sunyani aims to alleviate the psychological and financial burdens faced by patients who currently travel to Kumasi or Accra for treatment.

During the convention, Dr. George V. Samson, CEO of World Medical Relief (WMR), highlighted the dire state of medical facilities in developing countries and called for increased support from donor agencies and NGOs. He praised COBAANA’s initiative and committed 10 containers of medical equipment and supplies worth $5 million to the project.
The event’s Special Guest of Honor, Osagyefo Oseadeyo Dr. Agyeman Badu II, Omanhene of the Dormaa Traditional Area and President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, urged Ghanaians in the diaspora to contribute to their homeland’s development. He also called for responsible leadership and accountability in managing resources sent from abroad.
In attendance at the event were Odeneho Dr. Afram Brimpong III, Omanhene of Suma Traditional Area, Nana Yeboah Pene II, Queen Mother of Chiraa, as well as other traditional rulers and government dignitaries.
The three-day convention brought together over 300 delegates from across North America. An election was held, and the incoming administration was sworn in. The new executives who will lead for the next four years are Dr. DeGraft Kwafo of New Jersey, Trenton (Chairman), Dr. Richard Druyeh from Atlanta (Vice Chairman), Mr. William Owusu (Osika) from Columbus (General Secretary), and Ms. Juliet A. Amponsah from New Jersey, Newark (Assistant Secretary). Other officers include Mr. Seth Bonsu of Denver (Public Relations Officer) and Mr. Ahmed Hashun from Toronto (Assistant Public Relations Officer). The position of Financial Secretary went to Nana Kwabena Boateng from Washington, and the position of Treasurer went to Nana Akua Durowaaa from Connecticut. A new Council of Elders was also appointed. The outgoing General Secretary, Mr. Augustine Boahen, was appointed as the Ombudsman of the association. There was also the crowning of COBAANA King and Queen.
The convention concluded with a grand picnic, featuring music, food, and entertainment that kept delegates on their feet throughout. Attendees praised the local planning committee for organizing such a memorable event. Before the curtains were drawn, the chairperson of the Newark chapter, Ms. Juliet Amponsah, handed over the ceremonial baton to Mr. Andrew Kumalo, Chairman of the Denver chapter, which will host the 2025 convention.
Author: William Owusu (Osika) General Secretary – COBAANA