The launch took place during the 25-year celebration of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation and Fundraising Gala at the Otumfuo Jubilee Hall, Manhyia Palace.

According to Mr. Kufuor, the endowment fund is designed to insulate the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation from uncertainties that may affect the pursuit of its vision and purpose in the future.

“An endowment fund is more than a financial instrument; it is a promise that the mission and values we hold will endure. It is a commitment to sustainability, excellence, and empowering future generations,” he stated.

The former President added, “The success of the fund will build the foundation’s versatility and resilience.

“I see the success of this fund as a significant pathway to contributing quality human resources to nation-building, inclusively.”

He therefore appealed to NGOs, philanthropists, and other agencies to contribute generously to make the endowment fund a historic success.

“Now, the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation has taken on more responsibilities, adding thematic areas such as health, water, sanitation, culture, and heritage to its portfolio, to partner with like-minded individuals to steer as much change as possible for the entire community of Ghana,” John Agyekum Kufuor said.

He applauded the Asantehene and the Foundation’s board for the substantial work being done, saying in Twi “we appreciate you and the good work you do for the Ashanti Kingdom and Ghana, long live Nana”.

The former President noted that the measure of a man is what he does with power.

“There cannot be any doubt that Otumfuo has used his royal mandate to ably serve his nation and continue to shape and light the lives of many, benefiting from his largesse,” he emphasized.

The initiative, Gbese Aforoso Job Bank wallet, is aimed at curbing the high rate of unemployment among the youth in the community hence raising capital of about $10 million in the next five years to bring about millions of jobs.

The Gbese Mantse said a kenkey factory would be set up with a part of the funds to be generated to produce kenkey which would be sold at an affordable price and sizes that are better than the ones on the open market currently.

“We will also buy fishing trollers to open up our fishing industry to process the fish into fried fish and sardines to accompany the kenkey for export and local consumption”, he added.

Nii Ayi-Bonte II said the endowment fund aims at allowing all Ghanaians and philanthropists to support the initiative in order to reach the set target and create more jobs for the youth.

He urged all natives of the community and Ghanaians to support the endowment fund by sending in their support via Zeepay Mobile Money wallet 0725951658 to help the youth in the Gbese community and others outside the community.

According to Nii Ayi-Bonte II, maintaining peace in the Gbese community and the Ga state at large is one of his goals and responsibilities as a traditional leader.

He commended Zeepay, Guinness Ghana Limited, Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, and all other stakeholders who supported the royal feast and the launching of the Gbese Aforoso Job Bank wallet initiative.