In a night filled with promise and inspiration, District 418 - Ghana of Lions International marked a historic milestone with the official investiture of Lion Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan, PMJF, as its District Governor for the 2024/2025 service year.

The grand ceremony, held on Saturday, 20th July 2024, at the Lancaster Hotel in Accra, was a celebration of "Humanitarian Service with Impact," a theme that resonates deeply with the mission of Lions International, one of the world's foremost leaders in humanitarian service.

Dr. Asamoah-Hassan, a distinguished professional librarian and Executive Director of the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions (AfLIA), has been a passionate member of the Kumasi Royal Lions Club since 1995. Her extensive experience in academia and research, underscored by numerous publications, equips her with a wealth of knowledge and dedication for her new role.

The evening's highlight was the unveiling of her dynamic cabinet, a formidable team poised to support her ambitious agenda. The members introduced included Lion Edem Ocloo-Anipah, Lion Bless Dzah, Lion Helen Maku Obeng, Lion Martin Adu Adadey, Lion Richard Bansah, Lion Jonathan Sam, Lion Albert Appiah, Lion Oscar Onai, Lion Nana Akua Mensa-Bonsu, and many others, each bringing unique strengths to the table.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Asamoah-Hassan articulated a visionary roadmap for her tenure, emphasizing a mission-oriented approach, growth, and impactful service. She passionately echoed the theme of the International President for the 2024/2025 Lions Service year, Lion Fabricio Oliveira: "Make Your Mark." "For the 2024/2025 service year, D418 will make indelible marks in all four areas of Lions’ activities. Our slogan is 'Let’s Make Our Mark! Yes, we will!'" she declared.

Her strategic priorities include fostering unity among members, expanding membership, supporting training for Lions and Leos, and encouraging donations to the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). Dr. Asamoah-Hassan emphasized transparency and accountability, with a strong commitment to her motto: "Inspire, Involve, Innovate." She called on all Lions to embody these principles, urging, "Let us inspire each other, involve every member in our mission, and innovate in our approaches to make a lasting impact."
The Chairman of the event, Lion Oheneba Asibey Poku I, MJF, challenged Dr. Asamoah-Hassan and the Lions of District 418 to amplify their efforts, aiming to attract more members and elevate the district to multiple district status. His stirring words served as a powerful call to action, inspiring the audience to strive for greater achievements.

Expressing deep gratitude, Dr. Asamoah-Hassan acknowledged the contributions of past leaders and the unwavering support of her colleagues and family. "I thank the Almighty God for bringing me thus far, as He has shown Himself strong and faithful at every turn, keeping me focused on a course He has charted for me. I also sincerely thank the Club delegates who played a major role in making this possible," she said.

The evening also marked the launch of a significant fundraising campaign aimed at supporting several high-impact community service projects. Generous donations, pledges, and purchases of souvenirs underscored the Lions' commitment to their cause. The target of GHS1.3 million will fund the construction of an eight-bed Diabetic Emergency Ward and a Diabetic Outpatient Clinic, sponsor cataract surgery for 100 needy patients, and brand police barriers to promote road safety alongside the establishment of publicity signages.

The Deputy Minister for Education, Prof. Kingsley Nyarko, lauded Lions International for their global reach and impactful service. Highlighting the Lions' significant contributions in Ghana since 1981, he praised their notable projects in health, education, and social welfare, and their efforts in providing potable water through the construction of boreholes.

As the evening drew to a close, the spirit of purposefulness and dedication to service was palpable. Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan's investiture as District Governor marks the beginning of a promising chapter for District 418 - Ghana. With her at the helm, supported by a passionate team and community, the district appears poised to make a lasting impact, truly embodying the theme "Humanitarian Service with Impact."

EK