Africa Scout Day: Empowering Scouts for the Development of Africa

There was pomp and colour as Scouts from different countries across Africa and beyond gathered at the Baden Powell Centenary Memorial Hall in Accra, Ghana for the celebrations of the Africa Scout Day. This was the culmination of a series of activities that began on March 9, 2016.

Some of the activities that took place include: meeting of the Africa Scout Committee, meeting of the Africa Scout Foundation Board, training on youth engagement in good governance and an international youth camp. Participants in all these activities were drawn from over 14 countries.

The main event was graced by a long list of guests and partners of Scouting. The chief guest was the former President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E Jerry John Rawlings who has been a great supporter of Scouting in the Africa Region. The President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John D. Mahama was represented by the Minister for Interior, Mr. Prosper Bani. Other guest present were: Minister for Youth and Sports in the Government of the Republic of Ghana, Governor for Jeonbuk Province in Korea, traditional leaders, Secretary General of WOSM, Vice Chairperson of the World Scout Committee, Chairperson and members of the Africa Scout Committee, Regional Director and Staff of the Africa Support Centre, Chairperson and members of the Africa Scout Foundation Board, Chief Scouts, Chief Commissioners among others.

Several activities took place to commemorate the day that is dedicated to celebrating Scouting’s contribution to the development of Africa through education of young people, training of adults and community service. Key highlights included a guard of honour parade inspected by the Minister for Interior and the unveiling of the burst of the late “Chief” Isaac Newton Addy who dedicated 65 years of his life to the service of Scouting in Ghana and beyond.

The speakers reiterated the importance of the day and noted how Scouting continues to play a key role in moulding young people for active citizenship. A call was also made to governments to renew their commitment to support the growth and development of Scouting across Africa, especially in schools.

Next years, Africa Scout Day celebrations will be held in Tanzania. Happy Africa Scout Day!