Equipping the Youth, Building Bridges: Africa Street MBA Empowers Kumasi’s Zongo and Fulbe Communities
Ghana’s young people are the lifeblood of the nation’s future. Recognizing this, initiatives like the Africa Street MBA, implemented by DONE BY US with support from the KGL Foundation, are crucial in fostering entrepreneurial spirit and empowering the next generation. This vision became a reality on Saturday, May 18th, 2024, when a capacity-building training in entrepreneurship and youth empowerment was conducted for the youth in Kumasi’s Zongo and Fulbe communities.
This collaborative effort, which also involved the Suudu Baba Foundation, an NGO dedicated to empowering the Fulbe community and promoting peaceful coexistence between Fulani herders and farmers, holds immense significance. Lamido Osman Bin Ahmed, Head of the Suudu Baba Foundation and Ashanti Regional Fulbe Head, emphasizes the importance of such initiatives: “Equipping our youth with the skills and knowledge to succeed in business is essential for a brighter future. This training fosters not only individual growth but also strengthens the bond between our communities.”
The Africa Street MBA program offers a unique curriculum based on top MBA programs and entrepreneurial content. King A. Wellington, Executive Director of Africa Street MBA and Senior Consultant of DONE BY US, explains the program’s philosophy: “we aim to provide young people from diverse backgrounds with the tools and support they need to turn innovative ideas into thriving businesses. This training in Kumasi exemplifies our commitment to reaching marginalized communities and fostering inclusive economic development.”
The impact of the program resonated with the beneficiaries themselves. Amina Mohammed, a young woman from the Zongo community, shared her experience: “this training opened my eyes to the possibilities of starting my own catering business. The knowledge gained on marketing and financial management will be invaluable.”
A participant from the Fulbe community, echoed Amina’s sentiments: “the training provided practical skills that I can apply to my agricultural venture. It was inspiring to learn and network with young people from different backgrounds who share the same entrepreneurial spirit.”
The Africa Street MBA program in Kumasi transcends mere business skills development. It serves as a bridge between communities, fostering understanding and collaboration. This aspect is not lost on the organizers. King Wellington adds,”we believe that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for promoting social cohesion. By empowering young people from both communities, we can build a more peaceful and prosperous future for Kumasi.”
The success of the Kumasi training underscores the potential of the Africa Street MBA program. By equipping young Ghanaians with the necessary skills and fostering collaboration between communities, initiatives like these pave the way for a more vibrant and inclusive Ghanaian economy. As Lamido Osman Bin Ahmed concludes, “by investing in our youth, we invest in the future of Ghana. Together, we can build a nation where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.”
This collaboration offers a valuable model for future initiatives. By combining entrepreneurial training with a focus on social cohesion, the Africa Street MBA program can make a significant contribution to Ghana’s development. The program’s success in Kumasi serves as a testament to the power of empowering young people and fostering collaboration across communities.
