Omanghana
The Council of Ewe Associations of North America has held its 2026 Annual Convention, with discussions centered on preserving Ewe cultural identity and mobilizing diaspora resources to support development across Eweland.
The gathering brought together hundreds of delegates, including traditional leaders, business executives, policymakers, civil society representatives and members of Ewe communities living in the United States and Canada.
Participants examined how the diaspora could contribute more effectively to development initiatives in Ewe communities across Ghana, Togo and Benin.
Cultural preservation featured prominently throughout the convention. Speakers called for stronger efforts to protect the Ewe language, music, arts and oral traditions, particularly among younger generations born or raised outside West Africa.
Cultural performances, traditional pageantry and youth forums offered participants an opportunity to celebrate their heritage while strengthening connections between diaspora families and their ancestral communities.
Beyond the cultural activities, the convention focused on practical economic interventions capable of creating jobs and improving livelihoods.
Working sessions explored possible investments in commercial agriculture, agro-processing, tourism and small-business development. Delegates also discussed ways to support entrepreneurs in rural communities with access to capital, markets and professional expertise.
CEANA reviewed community projects financed through member contributions and proceeds from its fundraising activities. These interventions include rural health facilities, clean-water boreholes, classroom blocks and information and communication technology laboratories.
Participants stressed the importance of ensuring that future projects respond directly to the most urgent needs of beneficiary communities and remain sustainable after completion.
The convention also considered how remittances could be redirected from short-term household consumption towards long-term development and productive investment.
Proposals included diaspora bonds, venture capital funds and public-private partnerships involving municipal assemblies, traditional authorities and private investors.
Traditional leaders attending the convention commended CEANA for its consistent support for communities across Eweland. They encouraged the organization to align its projects with local development plans and sustainable land-use policies.
Youth participation and professional networking were also identified as important priorities.
Expanded networking sessions connected diaspora professionals in technology, healthcare, engineering and other fields with mentorship and apprenticeship programs in West Africa.
Organizers believe these partnerships could facilitate skills transfer, expose young people to new career opportunities and strengthen local professional capacity.
The convention reaffirmed CEANA’s commitment to cross-border cooperation, stressing that meaningful development across Eweland must extend beyond national boundaries.
Delegates called for stronger trade, cultural and developmental links among Ewe communities in Ghana, Togo and Benin.
The organization pledged to continue using its annual convention as a platform for celebrating Ewe heritage, strengthening diaspora unity and mobilizing resources for sustainable community development.
Source: Omanghana
