in celebrating Ghana @ 52

Ever thought that one would be celebrating the independence anniversary in style with one of the most celebrated reggae "dons" of all time, have you heard the songs; "Sittin' in Limbo", "You Can Get It If You Really Want" and "Many Rivers to Cross"? Fans got the opportunity of meeting Jamaican born Jimmy Cliff who was among the special guests who celebrated in style with NCOGA at the 52nd Independence anniversary banquet. The event occurred at the Armenian Church Hall in Manhattan, New York City on Saturday, 7th March 2009.

This formal banquet was a fundraiser for scholarships for youth who have excelled academically and are going on to further their education in colleges here in the US. In addition, awards of recognition were given to outstanding individuals and organizations whose life and work have served to advance the interest of Ghana and Africa.

The banquet attracted an array of distinguished individuals and dignitaries, including Ambassador Leslie Kojo Christian, Ghana's Ambassador to the UN; Deputy Ambassador Genevieve Tsegah, outgoing Consul General Obeng Gyan Busia, Councilwoman Helen Diane Foster of the 16th District in the Bronx, Nana Anane Amponsah, New York Asantefuohene, Nana Abena Manu, NY Asantefuohemaa and Togbe Setranah, of United Volta Association and Kofi Boateng of the Africa America Institute.

In his congratulatory message, His Excellency, Leslie Christian reminded patrons that Ghanaians had a good reason to celebrate this year’s anniversary, because it came on the hills of the peaceful transfer of power from President Kufuor to President John Evans Atta Mills. He congratulated NCOGA for remaining faithful to the charge of uniting Ghanaians under one umbrella. He reiterated his satisfaction that the award dinner was being held to raise funds for NCOGA’s scholarship program and noted that undertaking such task undoubtedly deserved commendation and our collective support.

Highlights of the evening included Jimmy Cliff wowing the crowd with a rendition of some of his reknowned hits. The four youth who were awarded scholarships for academic excellence were: Elorm Yador and Michele Adobea Agyakwah who have been admitted to Penn State University; Vasa Amponsah who will be attending the University of Buffalo and Gany Sita who is admitted to St. John’s University.

A diverse group of outstanding individuals within the community were also recognized. Charley Taylor was honored for his humanitarian efforts, generosity, contributions and support for NCOGA’s initiatives. Also honored was STAR100, a young Ghanaian adult’s network group, dedicated to assisting different causes both in Ghana and here in the USA. Each year the group identifies a cause and organizes fundraising to support it. The group was honored for the selfless dedication and community service.

Also honored was the former Executive Secretary General of NCOGA, Alhaji Mardah; and NCOGA former PRP;Kwabena Manu (Pancho), former representatives of NCOGA and other individuals from their respective associations for their dedication to service to the community at large.

A special thanks to Mr. George Ntim of African Development Foundation and NCOGA Board member who made it possible by inviting Singer Jimmy Cliff to the celebration. Also to all sponsors who supported us: Western Union, the African Development Foundation, Ambassadorway Travel, Prestige Travel., Internal Travel Exchange, Dr. Yao Kaledzi, Dr. Yaw Ntiri, Dr. Anukware Ketosugbo, Dr. Samuel Akuoku of Laurelton Medical, Dr. Benjamin Dodoo, Dr. Samuel Mensah, 3G Media Inc. Calapaz Fabrics, Trinity Travel, and the Law offices of Akpalu and Associates.

Music was provided by the legendary New York DJ, Katabo Soundz and covered by 3G Magazine.

The DVD of the event will be available for purchase soon. Those interested in obtaining the DVD should send an email to contact@ncoga.org.

H. E. Christian also had previously held a cocktail event which was attended by community leaders, Members of Parliament and other dignitaries celebrating the 52nd independence anniversary at his residence in New Rochelle.