NGO calls for service to mankind

The Ninth North West Africa Regional Convention of
Y's Men International, a non-governmental organization, opened in Accra on Friday with a call on all humanity to be committed to service to mankind.
Mrs. Clara Adetuyi, North West Africa Regional Director of Y's Men International, who made the call, said this new orientation was a viable alternative to solving Africa's woes.
“Africa is ravaged by war, diseases, hunger, unemployment etc. There is so much frustration and violence, but in all these, it takes only a man whose idealism is a driving force to make a difference,” she said.
She said service to mankind should therefore be seen as a rent paid to show appreciation for God's blessings, without asking or expecting a reward.
Mr. Daniel Dugan, Deputy Minister for Women and Children's Affairs, said the time had come for the well-endowed to support the less privileged, since about half of the world's population still lived in poverty.
He lauded the NGO for its contribution and pledged that the Ministry would team up with them in areas of women's empowerment initiatives.
The Minister called on them to also train the youth in food production to address food insecurity.
“This is the time to make a difference by withdrawing the youth from the street and equipping them with skills to become good citizens. This would help bridge the gap between the deprived and the marginalized in society,” Mr. Dugan added.
Ms. Charlotte Bedford, Host Convention Committee Chairman, said the three-day Convention under the theme; “Let's Make a Difference” was aimed at providing Y's Men the opportunity to share ideas on ways to move their humanitarian support forward.
She said the forum would also be used to draw public attention on the need to make life better for the deprived and needy.
She stated that Y's Men International which had Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council was open to all individuals willing to support either in cash or kind to enhance human survival.
Ms. Bedford therefore urged all individuals and corporate organizations to support Y's Men.
Mr. Femi Oduntan, Regional Convention Committee Chairman, also reminded Christians that Christianity without service to mankind was hollow.
“We must all begin by identifying needs in our communities and strive to address them,” he added.