29 Volunteers Launch Two-Year Ghana Service

New Peace Corps Volunteers Sworn In, Pledge Dedication to Ghana

Accra, Ghana – A new cohort of 29 Peace Corps Volunteers has officially taken their oaths, commencing a two-year commitment to serving communities across Ghana. The swearing-in ceremony, held in Accra, marked a significant moment, underscoring the enduring partnership between the United States and Ghana, a relationship now spanning 65 years.

Mr. Rolf Olson, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Ghana, addressed the newly sworn-in volunteers, emphasizing the importance of their dedication and the vital role they will play in strengthening existing collaborations. He highlighted that the presence of the Peace Corps in Ghana for over six decades is a testament to the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.

Mr. Olson urged the volunteers to actively engage with local communities, leveraging their unique skills and perspectives to address challenges identified by the Ghanaian people themselves. “As volunteers, you will bring your expertise, creativity and compassion to drive innovation and strengthen American-Ghanaian partnership,” he stated. “You are here because the Ghanaian community asked for you. We expect you to work hand-in-hand with the communities to support their locally identified needs and aspirations.”

These 29 volunteers have successfully completed an intensive 10-week training program, equipping them with the necessary skills and cultural understanding for their assignments. They will be dedicating their service to critical sectors, including Agriculture, Health, and Education.

The Peace Corps, established globally in 1961, is celebrated for its success in fostering cross-cultural adaptation and mutual understanding. Mr. Olson encouraged the new group to embrace this legacy, following in the footsteps of the more than 5,000 volunteers who have contributed to Ghana since the program’s inception.

“The impact of Peace Corps volunteers in Ghana is unmistakable. Across generations, Ghanaians share heartfelt memories of volunteers who shaped their futures… History has captured what the essence of 65 years of partnership truly means,” Mr. Olson remarked. He lauded the contributions of former volunteers and inspired the new members to pursue excellence and navigate any challenges with resilience. He concluded by reiterating the core philosophy of the Peace Corps: “The Peace Corps programme is one of service, deeply rooted in the belief that collaboration and community can bring about that brighter future we all strive for.”

The ceremony also saw prominent Ghanaian officials express their appreciation for the Peace Corps’ ongoing contributions.

Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, Deputy Minister of Health, acknowledged the invaluable role of Peace Corps volunteers in bolstering Ghana’s health sector. She specifically encouraged the new volunteers to concentrate on pressing public health issues, such as improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices, which are crucial for the reduction of preventable diseases.

“Partnerships like this endure because they are built on trust, collaboration, and shared purpose… as you take your oath today, your journey will challenge you but it may also become the tough job you will ever love, as the Peace Corps motto says,” Dr. Ayensu-Danquah stated, referencing the well-known Peace Corps sentiment.

Dr. Clement Apaak, Deputy Minister of Education, paid a heartfelt tribute to both past and present leaders of the Peace Corps initiative. He described the program as a shining example of how mutual respect and international collaboration can yield significant positive outcomes.

In a speech delivered on his behalf, Mr. Eric Opoku, Minister for Agriculture, conveyed his strong conviction that the volunteers’ mission would generate a lasting and positive impact within the communities they serve.

Ms. Augustina Ayisala, the Training Manager, commended the volunteers for their demonstrated resilience throughout the rigorous training period and for their commendable decision to dedicate themselves to a path of service.

Ms. Tamu Daniel, the Country Director of Peace Corps Ghana, framed the swearing-in ceremony as a pivotal moment, presenting the volunteers with a unique opportunity to contribute to national development in a multitude of ways.

The United States Peace Corps, a federal agency founded in 1961, is committed to fostering international peace, friendship, and sustainable development worldwide. Its volunteers immerse themselves in local communities, working collaboratively to build capacity, address critical needs, and cultivate deeper mutual understanding between cultures.