U.S. Ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer joined Ghanaian officials, returning volunteers and supporters to officially swear in 20 new Peace Corps Volunteers.

They will work in communities across Ghana over the next two years, helping plan community improvements, working in schools, teaching agricultural techniques, and protecting the environment.

“The Peace Corps has a long tradition in Ghana. The Peace Corps represents the best of America – a can-do spirit of volunteerism. 

"We are excited to have these 20 Americans working with Ghanaian communities for the next two years,” said Ambassador Palmer.

Peace Corps Volunteers, who have completed intense language and cultural awareness training, work side by side with local communities, to address critical needs, foster sustainable development, and build bridges of understanding across borders. 

Peace Corps is working closely with the youth of Ghana through its partnership with CorpsAfrica and CorpsAfrica’s Volunteer exchange programme.

Read also: U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers return to Ghana after 2-year hiatus

Ghana was the first country to receive U.S. Peace Corps volunteers in 1961.  Since then, more than 5,000 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in Ghana.

In addition to promoting peace, friendship, and sustainable development, the Peace Corps in Ghana is also focusing on innovations concerning climate change.

Volunteers will work with community partners to identify and put into practice strategies that support climate priorities and national goals. 

Projects include developing community tree nurseries, promoting climate-smart agriculture practices, and advancing climate literacy through environmental education.

Thirty-five Peace Corps Ghana Volunteers are currently serving in six regions across the country (Bono East, Eastern, Greater Accra, Northern, Oti, and Volta Region). 

Thursday’s ceremony brings the total number of Volunteers in Ghana to 55. Programs in Ghana are focused on agriculture, health, and education.

The swearing-in ceremony is a significant milestone in the journey of Volunteers as they officially begin their service in communities across Ghana.