Bekwai, Ashanti Region – Wednesday, 19th February 2025
Two days after a successful information session held on Monday, 17th February 2025, stakeholders of the Digital Access for Rural Empowerment (DARE) program convened at the Bekwai Municipal Assembly Hall on Wednesday, 19th February 2025, for a high-level engagement aimed at deepening collaboration and ensuring effective implementation of the initiative in the Bekwai Municipality.
The meeting brought together key representatives from government, traditional authorities, and innovation partners. The Municipal Coordinating Director (MCD) of the Bekwai Municipal Assembly (BMA), Ms. Sheila Rosetta Arthur, led the engagement, reiterating the Assembly's strong support for programs that promote digital inclusion and sustainable youth development.
In attendance was Mr. Gideon Brefo, CEO of HapaSpace Innovation Hub, the lead implementing organization for the DARE program. He expressed his appreciation for the warm reception of the program during the earlier information session and underscored HapaSpace’s dedication to building digital skills and employment pathways for young people, especially in rural communities.
Other attendees included staff of HapaSpace Innovation Hub, representatives from the Bekwai Manhene, Denyase Manhene, and Amoaful Manhene, as well as selected Assembly Members and Heads of Departments from the Bekwai Municipal Assembly.
The stakeholders used the platform to discuss the local relevance of the DARE program, explore potential areas of collaboration, and suggest strategies to align the program with community development priorities. The meeting highlighted the importance of leveraging digital tools to create jobs, enhance trade practices, and empower youth through entrepreneurship and remote work opportunities.
Participants praised the initiative and pledged their support to ensure its success within the Bekwai Municipality. Traditional leaders also emphasized the role of community involvement and cultural sensitivity in driving sustainable development.
The DARE program, supported by the Mastercard Foundation and other partners, seeks to bridge the digital divide by equipping rural youth—particularly women—with the tools, training, and opportunities to participate fully in the digital economy.
With strong backing from the Bekwai Municipal Assembly, traditional authorities, and implementation partners like GI-KACE, UNESCO and UGBS (through HapaSpace) the DARE program is set to make a significant impact in promoting inclusive and digitally driven development in the municipality.
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