The Anwelle Foundation was officially launched in Jirapa on Friday, September 25, 2026, with a pledge to tackle development challenges facing communities in the Upper West Region. The Foundation's Chief Executive Officer, Frank Anwelle, outlined its philosophy, emphasizing the creation of opportunities that enable individuals and communities to become self-reliant. This approach moves beyond providing temporary support, aiming to empower individuals and communities.
The Foundation plans to expand scholarships for students in underserved communities, scale up vocational training, and provide start-up grants for young entrepreneurs. Additionally, it will extend clean water and healthcare infrastructure to rural communities. These initiatives aim to address some of the region's development challenges. The Foundation's CEO, Frank Anwelle, encouraged others to join hands in creating opportunities, saying, "When you stand, help another stand. When you succeed, create opportunity for someone else."
Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, challenged the Foundation to prioritize youth development, particularly the empowerment of young women. He emphasized the need for increased investment in skills training, mentorship, innovation, entrepreneurship, and access to finance. This, he argued, will help young people transition from dependency to productive and sustainable livelihoods. The Minister's comments highlight the importance of youth empowerment in the region.
The Regional Minister also urged the Foundation to adopt a broader approach to agriculture, supporting the entire value chain from production to access to markets. He cautioned beneficiaries and residents against excessive dependence on the Foundation, stressing that sustainable development requires collective responsibility. Collaboration among stakeholders, including government, traditional authorities, and the private sector, is crucial for lasting impact.
Liberia's Presidential Envoy for Trade, Investment, and Special Duties, Daniel N. Kolubah, who attended the launch, encouraged the Foundation to focus on practical, sustainable, and measurable impact. He urged the leadership to prioritize impact over the number of programs announced. According to him, the Foundation's success should be reflected in the young people empowered, communities strengthened, and opportunities created.
Board Chairman of the Foundation, Prof. William Angko, pledged that the organization would uphold accountability and transparency in the use of resources. The Board will work closely with traditional and community leaders to pursue measurable and sustainable outcomes. The Foundation has committed to publishing an annual transparency report to enable donors and communities to track resource utilization.
The Anwelle Foundation's long-term ambition is to educate one child, equip one young person, strengthen one family, transform one community, and ultimately enable one beneficiary to become a benefactor. With its launch, the Foundation has begun its journey to create lasting impact in Jirapa and the Upper West Region. Key stakeholders have pledged their support, and the Foundation is poised to make a difference.
Key points
- The Anwelle Foundation aims to invest in education, youth empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, and community development in Ghana's Upper West Region.
- The Foundation plans to expand scholarships, vocational training, and start-up grants for young entrepreneurs.
- The Foundation has committed to publishing an annual transparency report to track resource utilization.
