Gov’t considering $400,000 funding for ADRA – Trade Minister

Government is considering granting a total of $400,000 of the Export Development Fund (EDF) to the Adventist and Relief Agency (ADRA) of the Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) to boost its business activities.

Mr Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Trade and Industry made this known at the 1st National Adventist Business Summit, organized by the Ghana Union of Conference (GUC) of SDA at Agona Swedru, in the Central Region.

He said it is the responsibility of the state to create an enabling environment to empower small and medium enterprises to function to reduce unemployment.

The Minister hoped the fund will assist ADRA to spread its avenues and cover vast business areas to create jobs and wealth for the youth.

Mr Iddrisu urged ADRA to explore more business opportunities, including the establishment of a plantation for both non-traditional and cash crops to boost the export sector of the country.

He said Ghana should not rely solely on cocoa but more non–traditional crops to support the growth of the economy.

Pastor Samuel Lamie, President of the Ghana Union Conference of the SDA said the summit was to among other things, aimed at fostering unity among church leaders and professionals.

Pastor Lamie said the church will identify and develop a core group of professionals who will mentor young Adventist professionals to establish more branches in the country.

Mrs Solace Hlordzi, Communication Director of the SDA said the church is setting aside an amount of money this year, to renovate 200, out of its 600 basic schools across the country.

Source: GNA