The first four months of the project allowed the preparation of the operational phase through the development of publication material, several meetings with stakeholders to explore collaboration possibilities in the Netherlands, Ghana and Ethiopia, the organization of kick-off events in the Netherlands and the preparation of the call for business ideas.
Highlight of a meeting in all 3 countries:
The Netherlands: Focus on Diaspora Associations
IOM had been invited by the Young Ghanaian Professionals Network (YGP) to briefly present the ED4D project at their inspiring end of the year 2018 event that was focused on “The key to setting goals and achieving them”. These connections illustrate the importance of actively involving diaspora organizations for a successful implementation of the program.
Ethiopia: Focus on Business Associations
In Ethiopia, the Dutch Embassy in Addis Ababa will, among others, support the project in terms of creating linkages with Dutch affiliated companies, associations as well as programs such as Ethiopian Netherlands Business Association (ENLBA), Ethiopia- Netherlands Trade for Agricultural Growth (ENTAG). ENLBA was created to better assist the Dutch businesses in Ethiopia as well as serve as a point of entry for new Dutch investors.
Ghana: Focus on Diplomacy
In Ghana, the IOM Chief of Mission, Ms. Sylvia Lopez-Ekra was received by the Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Mr. Ron Strikker. High level support is key to a successful implementation of the program whilst ensuring synergies with ongoing projects in the country.
