Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Cape Verde celebrates February 10, 2023, as a historic day for the organization as the Adventist Church in Cape Verde celebrated the official opening of ADRA Cape Verde. The event took place in a hotel in Praia, the capital city of the country. Leaders from the state of Cape Verde, including the Secretary of State for Social Inclusion, an advisor to the President of the Republic, and the President of the Platform of NGOs in Cabo Verde attended the opening. 

Prof. Robert Osei-Bonsu, president of the West-Central Africa Division (WAD) was joined by Pastor Sessou Selom, WAD executive secretary; Elder Markus Musa Dangana, WAD treasurer, and Pastor David Njock, president of the Western Sahel Union Mission.

In an interview on national television, Pastor Emmanuel Amegnito, the director for ADRA WAD, shared that he is aware of all the major challenges Cape Verde is facing. He added that ADRA's expertise will be useful in terms of economy, development, agriculture, health, and education in the region. 

He shared that ADRA Cape Verde seeks to bring innovations in humanitarian operations in Cape Verde. The organization will seek to identify vulnerable people in the region, work to ensure no child is left out of the education system, advocate the safety of vulnerable women, and will facilitate access to health with the vision of uplifting communities in Cape Verde.

When asked about the organization’s funding, Pastor Amegnito mentioned international funds and European organizations as sources of funding. In addition, ADRA Cape Verde hopes to receive support from the Cape Verde government, which has long partnered with Adventists in fighting against poverty.

ADRA was actively present in the region during the 1995 volcanic eruption. For this reason, ADRA’s arrival in Cape Verde is a moment of fulfillment for many of the Church's national leaders. The official opening ceremony of the ADRA agency was an emotional moment for all in attendance. ADRA Cape Verde is committed to a life of service in God's name to helping the poorest of the poor in the West African islands.

This article was provided by the West-Central Africa Division.