The Council of Ewe Associations of North America (CEANA) proudly announces the successful completion of its 32nd Annual Convention, held from August 28 to September 1, 2025, at the Sheraton DFW Airport Hotel in Dallas, Texas, under the theme “Our Health, Our Wealth.” The convention was hosted by the Ewe Association of Dallas under the leadership of Mr. Winfred Gbedemah, supported by his dedicated executives and organizing committee.
This year’s event brought together Ewe communities from across the United States, Canada, Europe, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria in a vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and purpose. Thousands also participated virtually through CEANA’s YouTube, Facebook, GhanaWeb, Ewe24, and other social media platforms. The main objective of the convention was to mobilize support and raise funds for the development of Eweland.
Opening Activities
The convention kicked off on Thursday, August 28, with a lively Cowboys and Girls’ Boogie Night, during which attendees dressed in themed outfits and danced the night away. The legendary Mr. Agboti Yawo made a surprise appearance, thrilling the audience with his electrifying performance. The Ewe Association of Dallas Youth and Adult groups also delivered spectacular cultural performances, including the signature Agbadza and Borborbor dances, earning admiration from guests.
The convention officially opened on Friday morning, August 29, with a meeting of the Council of Representatives (COR) chaired by Dr. Tsatsu E. Nyamadi, outgoing President of CEANA. During the meeting, elections were held for the 2025–2028 Executive Term, resulting in the following appointments:
- President: Mr. William Kumah
- 1st Vice President: Mrs. Penny Akpene Ametepi
- 2nd Vice President: Mr. Vincent Hamenu Kosi
- Director of Administration: Mr. David Abusah
- Secretary: Mr. Patrick Adzadu
- Assistant Secretary: Ms. Freda Mawuse Alormele
- Financial Controller: Mr. Francis Edem Katey
- Public Relations Officer: Ms. Mawusi Kudjawu
Grand Durbar of Chiefs and Queen Mothers
The much-anticipated Second Grand Durbar of Chiefs and Queen Mothers took place on Friday evening, drawing over 400 attendees. The event featured a magnificent display of royal regalia, cultural performances, and traditional music. The Ewe Association of Dallas Dance Group captivated the audience with a well-choreographed performance, while Mr. Agboti Yawo’s vintage songs brought nostalgia and excitement to the hall.
General Session and Addresses
On Saturday, August 30, delegates and guests participated in the General Session, marked by jubilation and celebration. Mr. Winfred Gbedemah, President of the Ewe Association of Dallas and CEANA’s 2nd Vice President, delivered the welcome address, acknowledging the immense efforts of Madam Esi Adoboe, Mr. Julius Korto, and the planning committee for ensuring a successful convention. He also expressed gratitude to his wife, Mrs. Sasha Gbedemah, for her unwavering support.
Dr. Tsatsu E. Nyamadi, in his final State of CEANA Address, praised the 20 Ewe Associations for their unity and dedication, noting that CEANA’s collaborative spirit has sustained the organization for decades. He highlighted completed projects, including a Kindergarten building at Dodome-Awuaisu (Ghana) and a Computer Library in Kpalime (Togo). He also revealed ongoing initiatives — the renovation of a Community Library at Anloga, a Medical Laboratory at Agotime Akpokope, and a Library Complex at Anfoeta-Tsibi, all in Ghana’s Volta Region.
Guest and Dignitary Remarks
The Guest of Honor, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana, was represented by Hon. Rockson Nelson Kwame Etse Dafeamekpor, MP for South Dayi and Majority Chief Whip. Hon. Dafeamekpor conveyed the Speaker’s warm greetings and commendation for CEANA’s leadership in diaspora-driven development.
He encouraged CEANA to expand its presence on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram, and suggested launching the convention annually in Ghana to attract greater participation and funding. He also pledged that several Members of Parliament would attend the 2026 Convention in Washington, D.C.
Other dignitaries who addressed the gathering included Hon. Emmanuel Bedzrah (MP, Ho West), Hon. Peter Nortsu-Kotoe (MP, North Akatsi), Hon. Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor (MP, Awutu-Senya East), Hon. Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpey (MP, Keta), Hon. Dr. Othniel Kwainoe (MP, Ekumfi), Hon. Daniel Agboka-Dzegede (Executive Director, Volta Development Forum and Regional Director, GIPC), and Dr. Kenneth Afenya, who also served as Keynote Speaker.
Keynote Address
Dr. Kenneth Afenya, a nephrologist and Medical Director at Lex Kidney Care, Kentucky, delivered an insightful keynote address emphasizing the importance of community health. He noted that the theme, “Our Health, Our Wealth,” was both timely and profound. Dr. Afenya urged participants to view health holistically, emphasizing social determinants such as nutrition, rest, and mental well-being.
He encouraged CEANA to advocate for equitable health policies and to collaborate with schools, churches, and cultural groups in promoting wellness education. His message resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing CEANA’s mission of holistic development.
Banquet and Fundraising Night
The Saturday evening banquet, CEANA’s signature fundraising event, featured the popular Associations’ Challenge. The Ewe Association of Greater Boston emerged victorious, followed by the United Volta Association of New York, the Ewe Association of Washington, D.C. Metro Inc., and the Norvisi Association of New Jersey.
Significant donations also came from Dekaworwor of Maryland, CEANA Nurses and Allied Health Workers, and other generous individuals. The evening also featured performances from the Ewe Association of Dallas and another energetic set by Mr. Agboti Yawo, which had attendees dancing throughout the night.
Closing Ceremony and Transition
In his end-of-term address, Dr. Nyamadi thanked CEANA members for their trust and support during his two-term presidency, acknowledging his wife, Mrs. Patience Nyamadi, for her unwavering support. Quoting Helen Keller, Horace Mann, and Coretta Scott King, he emphasized unity, community progress, and compassion.
The night concluded with the swearing-in of newly elected executives, presentation of awards and plaques, and the transfer of CEANA’s symbolic Stool to the Ewe Association of Washington, D.C. Metro Area Inc., which will host the 2026 Convention.
Sunday Activities and Departure
A well-attended non-denominational church service led by Rev. Martin Osae of the Ghanaian Community Presbyterian Church USA in Irving, with musical direction by Prof. Samuel Nyamuame of Binghamton University, set a spiritual tone for Sunday.
Later in the day, delegates enjoyed the CEANA Cookout, featuring authentic Eweland dishes, lively Agbadza, Ewe Highlife, and Borborbor music. The evening concluded with “Mise Gli Loo – Toli Night,” a nostalgic storytelling session celebrating Ewe oral traditions.
On Monday, September 1, 2025, delegates departed to their respective destinations across North America, Africa, and Europe with renewed unity, friendship, and commitment to CEANA’s mission.
Media and Coverage
Mr. Steve Dei, outgoing CEANA PRO, served as Master of Ceremonies, assisted by Ms. Empress Mawusi Kudjawu, the newly elected PRO and co-host of the CEANA Central Talk Show. CEANA Media, led by Dr. Edem Wornyo, handled live streaming. Authentic Mama Emefa of Top Radio 103.5 FM (Ghana), Sankofaonline Media (Chicago), and Chatting with Nicole provided coverage and support.
Convention Highlights
- Successful fundraising efforts supporting education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects in Eweland.
- Strengthened partnerships between diaspora organizations and local development stakeholders.
- Vibrant cultural showcases celebrating Ewe heritage and traditions.
Conclusion
CEANA extends its heartfelt appreciation to all attendees, donors, and volunteers whose collective efforts made the 32nd Annual Convention a resounding success. Together, the Ewe diaspora continues to build bridges between communities, foster progress, and preserve a proud cultural legacy.
For more information about CEANA and its development initiatives, please contact:
Mr. William Kumah, President, CEANA
📧 president@ceanaonline.org | 🌐 www.ceanaonline.org
