A brief historical account on the formation of COGA.
The Council of Ghanaian Associations DFW was born out of a committee of dedicated and public-spirited Ghanaians who initially came together to organize the celebration of Ghana's fiftieth Independence anniversary in the year 2006. This committee, recognizing the importance of their cultural heritage and community cohesion, aimed to ensure a memorable celebration and laid the foundation for an enduring organization to oversee events and issues relevant to the Ghanaian community in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area.
The idea of hosting a dinner dance to mark the fiftieth Independence anniversary was first proposed by Enoch Azu, then-President of the Ewe Association. John Bruce, then-President of the Ga Association, advised including all Ghanaian associations in the planning and organization to foster unity and collaboration. Rex Poku played a crucial role by facilitating all initial meetings, and Grace Baidoo led the efforts in solicitation and sponsorship, ensuring the financial viability of the event. Angela Azu made a significant contribution by offering her credit card for the $8,000 down payment to Marriott's Hotel Las Colinas, securing the venue for the celebration, also providing refreshment and opening her house for months hosting all meetings of COGA.
Lawrence Dagadu served as the Secretary for these meetings and later became the first General Secretary of the Council. His efforts were instrumental in structuring the new organization and providing it with a solid foundation. Kakra Tham (Mr. COGA) has been an active member from the very first meeting and has represented the Council at many forums, contributing to its growth and visibility.
David Owusu-Hemeng (Mahoney) acted as the de facto public relations officer, successfully publicizing the event and selling more than half the tickets for the 50th anniversary dinner dance, which generated over $11,000 in income after all expenses. David Sanni Thomas served as the treasurer, ensuring meticulous record-keeping and financial management.
Other notable individuals who played significant roles in the formation and success of the Council include Dr. Alexander Holdbrook, Dr. James Agyemang, Sam Addo, George Owusu-Ansah, Mr. Oduro Asante, Rev. Dr. Kwame Lartey, Issac Mensah, Mac Amokwaw, Emmanuel Ohene (OJ), Joseph Boafo, Augustus Richardson, Mr. Peter Kahi, Mr. Robertson, Kofi Hemeng and Seifah Boakye. Their collective efforts and dedication were pivotal in planning the 50th anniversary celebration within four months and drafting, discussing, and promulgating the Council's constitution over the subsequent eight months, leading to the formal registration of the organization in 2007.
The constitution of the Council initially drafted by Enoch Azu has been a key factor in its stability and sustainability. Structured on the parliamentary system of governance, it ensures that each member association has an equal say in the organization's decisions, eliminating any possibility of any one group dictating or imposing its will on the community. This structure prevents any individual or group of individuals from having executive authority, promoting equality and collaboration within the Council. This democratic and inclusive approach has been the mainstay and bedrock of the organization, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and unity among its members.
Since its inception, the Council of Ghanaian Associations DFW has grown from an initial membership of six associations to fifteen. It has been at the forefront of organizing key annual events for the Ghanaian community, including the Independence celebration, the GhanaFest, and Christmas Carols night celebrations. These events have strengthened community ties, fostered cultural pride, and promoted unity among Ghanaians in the DFW area. The Council continues to serve as a vital organization, upholding and celebrating the cultural heritage and interests of the Ghanaian community.