STAR-Ghana Dialogue Ignites Active Citizenship

 By Shine Esi Kwawukumey 




The STAR-Ghana Foundation successfully hosted its annual Akoto Ampaw Active Citizenship Dialogue (AAACD), bringing together distinguished speakers, civil society leaders, and governance advocates to discuss the role of activism in shaping Ghana’s democratic future.


Themed “Inter-Generational Dialogue for Active Citizenship: Lessons and Opportunities for the Future,” the event featured a distinguished panel, including veteran journalist and human rights activist Prof. Kwame Karikari, gender and human rights specialist at FIDA Ms. Susan Aryeetey, investigative journalist and digital activist Manasseh Azure-Awuni, and youth activist and governance advocate Ms. Felicity Nelson. 


Their insights sparked engaging discussions that earned continuous applause from an enthusiastic audience throughout the event.


Bernard Avle 


The highlight of the event was the keynote address by ace broadcast journalist and Citi FM General Manager, Bernard Avle, who delivered a thought-provoking speech urging activists to leverage their platforms for meaningful change. 


He underscored the importance of community engagement, participatory democracy, and knowledge-driven activism.


"You can't be a citizen if you don't appreciate community," Avle stated. 


"Citizenship is not alien to the African."


"We've always understood it and manifested it differently."


"Today, political action, civil society involvement, and community support define citizenship."


He challenged activists to ensure their knowledge benefits their communities. 


"If you can't use that knowledge to liberate your people, you don't really know it."


"The purpose of knowledge is usability, go back to your hometown and ask: how can I use this to help farmers with farm gate pricing?"


"How can I unlock markets for them?"


"That is what an activist intellectual does not just speaking on media platforms," he emphasized.


Avle also highlighted the power of convening, urging activists to use their influence to bring stakeholders together for productive dialogue. 


"If you have access to politicians, don’t use it for personal favors bring them and ask hard questions."


"You can call chiefs, policymakers, and citizens into the same room."


"That is a powerful tool you must harness."


Prof. Kwame Karikari 


Prof. Kwame Karikari called on citizens to be proactive in national development, stressing that activism is not limited to a specific profession.


"Anybody can be an activist a footballer, a musician, a poet, or an artist. 


"What matters is your contribution to society," he said.


Susan Aryeetey 


Ms. Susan Aryeetey highlighted the contributions of Ghanaian women activists to nation-building, emphasizing the need to celebrate their efforts.


Manasseh Azure-Awuni 


Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure-Awuni reaffirmed his commitment to exposing corruption and holding leaders accountable. 


He noted that criticism and resistance are part of activism but stressed the importance of demanding transparency from those in power.


"As with all activists, you'll be insulted and vilified. 


"But if the government eventually responds, even if we don’t agree with everything, that is progress," he stated.


Felicity Nelson 


Ms. Felicity Nelson emphasized the crucial role of young people in shaping Ghana’s democracy. 


She urged the youth to actively participate in governance, hold leaders accountable, and challenge the status quo through informed activism.


"Young people must recognize their power and influence."


"We cannot afford to be passive observers we must engage, question policies, and push for reforms that serve our collective future," she stated.


Nelson also highlighted the importance of intergenerational collaboration, stressing that mentorship and knowledge-sharing between older and younger activists are essential for sustaining impactful civic engagement.


The Chairperson of the Governing Council of STAR-Ghana Foundation, Hajia Hamdiya Ismaila, reiterated the foundation’s dedication to fostering active citizenship as a tool for change and national development.


"To us at STAR-Ghana Foundation, promoting active citizenship is critical. 


"Empowered citizens influence change and drive national development."


"The AAACD provides a strategic platform for intergenerational conversations that recognize past and present activism and map a way forward," she said.


Since its inception in 2021, the Akoto Ampaw Active Citizenship Dialogue (AAACD) has served as a key platform for fostering civic engagement and governance discussions. 


Following the passing of lawyer Akoto Ampaw in 2023, STAR-Ghana renamed the event in his honor, recognizing his contributions to democracy, human rights, and citizen participation.


The dialogue continues to serve as a space for critical discussions on activism, governance, and national development, ensuring that Akoto Ampaw’s vision for active citizenship remains a driving force in Ghana’s democratic journey.

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