From Alms to Enterprise: NDC Initiative Fosters Self-Reliance in Tarkwa Nsuaem

But today, a gleaming deep freezer sits in her home, a silent promise of a new beginning and a life of self-reliance.

This appliance is more than just a machine; it is the cornerstone of her new cold store business, a gift from her local party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), in the Tarkwa Nsuaem constituency. It is part of a broader initiative by the party to move beyond traditional job-seeking and empower its members to become their own bosses.

“I have been paralysed for almost four years, and could only talk,” Adjoa shared, her voice thick with emotion. “I could only go to the local FM station and beg for alms to purchase my medication and put food on my table. I will use this deep freezer to operate a cold store business to cater for myself and my children. Now, there will be no need for me to go and beg for alms.”

The move comes as the constituency executives, in collaboration with the Member of Parliament and the Municipal Chief Executive, identified specific cases where a little support could make a life-changing difference. From business start-ups to urgent medical bills, the party is stepping in with targeted interventions.

Danladi Salifu, the NDC Constituency Chairman, explained that the policy is a proactive approach to member welfare. “As a party, our policy is that if you’re a member and you need help and the party can really help, we will help. We will not wait for things to get out of hand before we come in,” he stated.

“We cannot go round hunting for jobs for all our members. Some of them want to be their own boss… and they need the help of the party to cushion them. When a loyal party member who has been with the party through thick and thin has a need, they cannot be neglected.”

The assistance, ranging from GH¢2,000 to GH¢5,000 in financial support, has been extended to various members. This includes an elderly member needing support, a parent in New Atuabo whose child is hospitalized, and a dedicated party communicator, or "serial caller," who requires surgery.

Ebo Baah, widely known as Uncle Ebo and the PRO of the NDC serial callers, received financial aid and expressed profound gratitude on behalf of all beneficiaries.

“I thank the party for their thoughtfulness. I know this is not the end, and I pray this gesture will benefit others who are equally in need.”

Chairman Salifu also had a message for the youth, encouraging a shift in perspective. “It’s not only the mining companies that can offer jobs. The youth can equally set up their own business and work for themselves to earn a living. We will not relent in assisting our members.”

He emphasized that the party’s efforts, including a recent distribution of industrial machines, are a testament to its commitment to serving the interests of its members. “Our doors are always open to support members in ways we can,” he affirmed.

For Adjoa Agyeman, that open door has led to a path she thought was lost forever. No longer defined by her paralysis, she is now a budding entrepreneur, her future secured not by alms, but by the cold, steady hum of opportunity.

Nana Esi Brew Monney