TopAfric’s school project in Hlihadzi, in the Afram Plains of Ghana’s Eastern Region, is proving to be one of the most demanding initiatives the organisation has taken on in recent years. Yet, the importance of the project and the hope it brings to the community makes every effort worthwhile.

One of the greatest challenges is the shortage of sand. Suitable building sand is scarce in the area, forcing the team to pause work while searching for alternatives. Sand from the riverbed is being considered, but its possible salt content could affect the strength and durability of the structure. Without a reliable source of quality sand, construction cannot safely move forward.

Labour presents another difficulty. Skilled and semi-skilled workers must be brought in from outside and housed in the remote village until their tasks are complete. Living conditions are far from basic. There is no electricity, access to clean drinking water is limited, and the local clinic is poorly resourced. This means there is no dependable medical support should an accident occur.

Transport and logistics add further complexity. With no road access, all building materials must be transported by boat. Rain, strong winds, and shifting water conditions can delay deliveries and increase costs. To manage these risks, TopAfric is planning consolidated shipments, scheduled charter barges, and trained crews to ensure safe unloading and storage.

Communication poses a challenge as well, since mobile and data networks in the area are unreliable, which complicates the coordination of the project.

Despite these obstacles, TopAfric and the community remain determined. Through careful planning, strong partnerships, and perseverance, the Hlihadzi project is becoming a powerful example of resilience and community spirit proving that where there is a will, there is a way.

African Youth Education Awards -2022

Although the Covid-19 pandemic was a huge distraction in terms of planning and implementation, TopAfric e.V. was able to run the “Youth Leadership Programme” successfully. The mentoring programme aimed to deepen educational awareness and empower young people of African descent in Germany. It aimed at creating a spontaneous willingness on the part of the youth to become involved in civic engagements, strengthen social cohesion, and charge them with being more socially responsible.

The programme brought together mentees and working mentors to exchange views on various topics based on mutual respect and understanding. The project pursued active community building with the aim of networking and improving the academic and professional qualifications of the mentees. The young people benefitted greatly from the experiences and skills of the mentors, while the mentors had the privilege of sharing their successes and setbacks productively and passing on their experiences to the younger generation. The programme was implemented within two years with some challenges along the way, but these were managed well by the mentors and mentees.

The mentees were actively involved in the activities of TopAfric e.V. by accompanying people to offices, assisting them in filling out forms and providing translations in schools for parents who are not fluent in the German language. Though not part of the initial plans, the African students from Ukraine were supported by helping them to find accommodation and searching for German-language schools, as well as organizing Zoom seminars for them on how to navigate their stay in Germany. 

The African Youth Education Awards (AYEA) that crowned the project were amazing and witnessed the biggest attendance since 2012. Initially, the event was slated for the 15^th October 2022, but two months before that date, the Chamber of Commerce had to change our schedule to the 22^nd October 2022. Panic broke out as we had to create additional posters, flyers and promotional videos. The new young team was able to adjust quickly to implement the programme in an amazing way. Over 500 people attended, far exceeding the target of 300 people, with the participation of state institutions, consulates, embassies, and agencies from Africa, leaders from the African communities and members of the media. The ripple effect went far beyond the attendees.

The mentoring programme builds on the activities of TopAfric e.V. and its network of partners in the field of educational equity and empowerment. The mentees did not only participate in the programmes we run, but took up leadership roles and helped operate them successfully. 

We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Aktion Mensch which sponsored the leadership programme. With Covid-19 gone, we would be in a better position to implement such a noble project more successfully.

Desmond John Beddy

https://beddy.de

Following the launch of TopAfric’s school construction initiative in Hlihadzi, located in the Afram Plains of Ghana’s Eastern Region, the team has gained a clearer understanding of both the urgent needs and the practical challenges on the ground.

Hlihadzi’s remote location continues to shape every aspect of the project. Ideally, construction blocks would be moulded locally to reduce costs. However, sand a basic material for block production is scarce in the area. With no road connectivity to the area, the team must purchase blocks from Kotoso and transport them by boat across the water. This process significantly increases both logistical complexity and expenses.

Transport remains one of the biggest obstacles. Every bag of cement, every tool, and every block must be carefully coordinated and shipped across the river. Weather conditions, boat availability, and fuel costs all affect delivery schedules and overall project costs.

Based on current indicators, completing the Hlihadzi school project will likely present serious financial challenges. Rising transport costs, material sourcing difficulties, and the remote setting place additional strain on the budget. TopAfric is therefore intensifying efforts to secure further funding and partnerships to ensure the successful completion of the school.

Despite these obstacles, the determination of TopAfric remain strong. Local residents continue to offer support through labour and cooperation. The Hlihadzi school project is more than a construction effort. It is an investment in the future of a community that has long been isolated.

I had the privilege to attend the 2016 African Youth Education Awards (AYEA) in Hamburg which for me belongs to one of the well-organized events by the African Diaspora in Hamburg.

In terms of event management, the African Diaspora has constantly been linked to a clichee of disregard for time, ill-prepared programs, less attention to detail and unprofessionalism.

Traditionally, one can also argue that most African communities in Germany have placed much focus on socio-cultural programs (Outdoorings, Funeral Celebrations, Cultural Shows, etc.) to highlight their existence in the public domain.

I humbly want to proclaim that the AYEA program is now one of the leading platforms to showcase a different image of the African Diaspora in Germany.

My confidence in making such a proclamation thrives around my personal observations whilst attending the AYEA awards. Essentially, I'd restrict my opinions to the following:

Professionalism:
The organizers of the AYEA have clearly understood that the regard for punctuality directly translates into respect for participants and also lays the foundation for effectiveness.

The program started on time - which was the first surprise I took notice of- and it was executed within the allocated time. This brings to mind that I have to give a big credit to the 3 young African female moderators who combined glamour, professional expertise and resolute assertiveness to drive this event to the expected targets.

Attendance & Awards:
The AYEA program was patronized by signficant personalities from the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce, representatives from the Hamburg Local Government, Embassy of Uganda, Notable Parliamentarians, Student Associations and many more distinguished individuals. For me, this platform delivered the ever so important avenue for vital engagements between the political divide in Germany and the African Diaspora. The presentations stressed the need for the African Diaspora to consolidate its position within the society at large by taking advantage of all integration avenues.

At the same time, the awards to our young African brothers and sisters can be seen as powerful motivation factors, however, I am of the view that they clearly depicted an increasing trend of the African youth walking a different path in comparison to the older generation. Specifically, this is an indication that they have embraced the idea that achieving excellence in education is a core prerequisite for career development and social integration in Germany.

The event sequence combining formal presentations, entertainment acts and motivational speeches were driven in a manner which captured my attention from beginning to end. Boredom factor was zero and I believe this is achievable through experience which the organizers have gained in the last couple of years. 

Writing your Story:
Unfortunately, Africans (both on the continent and in the diaspora) have never had the joy, resources and the platform to write and communicate their own history (culture, religion, traditions, etc.) to the rest of the world. This role has often been occupied by foreign media, especially western media who, evidently, have always presented Africans in the light of their own expectations, imaginations and purposes.

Going forward, this situation has to change and the AYEA showcased that this is a viable avenue for the African Diaspora to tell its own story.

Logistics, Hospitality and Services:
As a Professional Project Manager, I could see that a lot of planning, time, resources and engagements have been invested into this event or I'd say project.

The outcome was simply remarkable - participants neither noticed any technical issues nor logistical challenges.

On the other hand,  I thought the representation and involvement of the African Diaspora in Hamburg leaves much to be desired. Yes, more hands on deck! Hamburg has the largest number of Africans in Germany and I am convinced they could put more resources together to expand the dimensions of this event. I'd also expect to see more African businesses in Hamburg taking up the role of sponsors for this event.

By Alex Kofi Appiah PMP
Senior IT Project Manager
Essen, Germany

TopAfric Media Network

TopAfric has officially started a new and important project today, 5 February 2026, in the Afram Plains of Ghana. The project aims to build a school to support children and families in the area. The school will be located in Hlihadzi.

The remoteness of the area is very clear. Although the distance is only about 141 km, the journey can take more than 24 hours. Desmond could not find any alternative access routes on Google, which shows how difficult it is to reach the community.

To begin this journey, Desmond and his team left Afienya, near Accra, very early at 3:00 am on Wednesday, 4 February 2026. The journey has been long and demanding. By 3:45 pm, the team was crossing the river from Adowso to Ekyiamenfrom, where they planned to rest before continuing to Hlihadzi the next day.

As the team moves closer to the project site, the challenges ahead are becoming more visible. Transporting construction materials and tools to such a remote area will not be easy. For this reason, TopAfric is exploring all possible means of transportation to ensure the school can be built successfully.

On their return journey via the same route, from Hlihadzi through Ekyiamenfrom to Adowso then Nkawkaw and back to Accra, the team plans to assess other possible and more effective ways to transport materials to the project site.

Despite these challenges, TopAfric remains fully committed to this mission. This project marks an important step towards improving education and creating better opportunities for children in the Afram Plains.

Empowering Tomorrow's Craftsmen
In a world where collaboration often leads to extraordinary achievements, the partnership between TopAfric, the organizers of the African Youth Education Awards (AYEA), and the Hamburg Chamber of Crafts (Handwerkskammer) is nothing short of remarkable.

This alliance promises to bring forth a myriad of opportunities and benefits for young Africans seeking to explore the world of craftsmanship and trades. The joint participation in the AYEA 2023 event on Saturday, 4th November 2023, at the Chambers of Commerce in Hamburg is a testament to their shared vision.

AYEA's core objective is to celebrate the educational accomplishments of young African individuals in Germany. By partnering with the Hamburg Chamber of Crafts, AYEA extends its support and recognition to a wider array of talents, especially those venturing into the world of craftsmanship. This collaboration will unlock opportunities for young individuals who aspire to pursue vocational training and technical education. It provides them with a platform to showcase their talents and skills, opening doors to fulfilling careers.

The Hamburg Chamber of Crafts has a rich legacy of promoting vocational training and skill development. By joining forces, TopAfric and the Handwerkskammer can empower young Africans in Germany with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in various crafts and trades. This empowerment is not only about enhancing their employability but also about nurturing their self-confidence and self-sufficiency. Craftsmanship offers the chance for individuals to hone their abilities and craft a successful future.

The field of craftsmanship is not immune to change; it evolves with time and technological advancements. By collaborating, AYEA and the Handwerkskammer can encourage innovation and the adoption of modern techniques within the African community. This partnership offers young talents the opportunity to explore, adapt, and contribute to innovative developments in craftsmanship. It positions them as agents of progress in the evolving world of trades.

The beauty of this partnership lies in its ability to champion inclusivity and diversity within the craft sector. It paves the way for African youth in Germany to explore vocational and technical professions without prejudice. By embracing diversity, this collaboration enriches the craft community with fresh perspectives, ideas, and approaches. It serves as a testament to the fact that talent knows no boundaries.

Vocational education and technical professions often face challenges in attracting young talents. Many individuals are unaware of the promising career opportunities that lie within the craft sector. The collaboration between AYEA and the Hamburg Chamber of Crafts acts as a bridge. It bridges the information gap and aids young Africans in making informed choices regarding their educational and career paths.

Partnering with an esteemed institution like the Hamburg Chamber of Crafts widens the horizons for AYEA. It opens doors to a broader network of professionals, mentors, and potential employers. This expanded network is a treasure trove of opportunities for African youth, providing mentorship, internships, and job openings. The alliance strengthens the support system for young talents.

AYEA's emphasis on education aligns seamlessly with the Handwerkskammer's dedication to vocational training. By working in tandem, both organizations contribute to the long-term sustainability of educational programs and support systems for African youth in Germany. This commitment to sustainability ensures that young individuals have continuous access to resources, knowledge, and guidance on their journey.

The collaborative participation of TopAfric and the Hamburg Chamber of Crafts in AYEA creates awareness within the African community about the significance of vocational and technical education. It underscores the importance of craftsmanship and its role in fostering self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and economic sustainability. By shedding light on these opportunities, it encourages more young individuals to explore and embrace the world of trades.

The partnership is a transformative step towards empowering young African individuals. It nurtures their aspirations, enhances their skills, and opens doors to fulfilling careers in craftsmanship. This collaboration is a beacon of inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that the future generation has the tools and knowledge needed to shape their destinies in a rapidly evolving world.

Desmond John Beddy

http://www.beddy.de

Mr. Smith - We have to talk! So heisst die neue Radioshow bei TopAfric die Montag bis Freitag ab dem 12.01.2017 um jeweils 15:00 Uhr ausgestrahlt wird. Moderiert wird die Sendung von dem selbst ernannten "Gentleman of Talk" Shadon Smith (30), der sich mit vielen Themen auseinandersetzt die unsere heutige Gesellschaft betreffen. 

Themen wie z.B. die Frage nach der Rollenverteilung zwischen Männern und Frauen im 21. Jahrhundert. Gehören Frauen hinter dem Herd während der Mann das Geld verdient, oder geht die Frau arbeiten und der Mann zieht sich die Kochschürze an? Brauchen Frauen heutzutage überhaupt noch einen Mann für ein glückliches Familienleben? "Mr. Smith - We have to talk!". Neben den Sozialen Themen werden auch politische Themen behandelt wie die Frage nach Donald Trump: Kann es mit ihm besser werden? "Mr. Smith - We have to talk!".

Moderiert wird frei aus dem Bauch heraus, wobei auch die Interaktion mit den Zuhörern ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Sendung ist. Die Radioshow steht unter dem Motto "Deine Meinung zählt". Somit sind alle Zuhörer bei Mr. Smith - We have to talk! aufgerufen sich zu den Themen zu beteiligen und über die Studiohotline mitzureden.

Euch erwartet eine unterhaltsame Show mit angenehmer RnB und Hip Hop Musik aus den 90er bis 2000er Jahre, ebenso viel Charme und Emotionen in den Moderationen. We have to talk!

http://topafric.com/index.php/online-live-radio
Thomas Rudd

Desmond John Beddy

The prospect of departing this world with a lingering sense of unfulfillment weighs heavily on my heart. My earliest school memories take me back to a dilapidated classroom situated in a town deprived of fundamental amenities like electricity, clean drinking water, and a clinic.

Today, I find myself questioning, "What have I given back to this community?" The response to this question is profoundly disheartening—not-enough.

From a young age, I grasped the principle that those who are fortunate must also give generously in return. It's important to note that this giving is not limited to monetary contributions; it also involves sharing un-used clothing with those in desperate need. Regrettably, I must confess that I have not done enough in this regard.

My dear friend, I trust that you can empathize with my frustration. I understand that it's implausible to fulfill all of my dreams, yet I remain convinced that there's much more I can achieve. The same potential exists for you.

I've frequently pondered the notion of what transpires if my noble intentions and visions go unrealized. In fact, I previously emphasized this point in Nürnberg, Germany when I received recognition for my community contributions: "Success is only achieved when you have prosperous successors who carry forward your work."

Is it not plausible that, were I to pass away today, the distinguished African Youth Education Awards (AYEA) might slip into obscurity? Success transcends the mere initiation of endeavors; it hinges on guaranteeing their long-term sustainability.

Far too often, we are inclined to launch fresh initiatives while abandoning existing projects—both in our home countries and abroad. We frequently prioritize the creation of new endeavors catering to the elite, neglecting those aimed at uplifting the underprivileged.

I am acutely aware that my grave might bear witness to my sorrow as I witness the marginalized status of the vulnerable. For several years, I have advocated for the principles of "Come Together, Work Together, and Stay Together" (CWS) to no avail.

Coming together for a shared purpose constitutes only the inaugural step; it's equally vital that we continue working together and, most importantly, stay united. Within this unity, teams grow stronger, deficiencies are addressed, and we achieve medium and long-term objectives.

A close friend once commended my achievement in compiling "The History of Ghanaians in Germany." However, I am unable to rest content until millions have access to the book, millions have perused its contents, and it has significantly impacted lives.

My aspiration is to see the book meticulously edited and readily available in all German schools, universities, libraries, cultural centers, and social hubs. Unfortunately, this vision remains unfulfilled.

Despite my profound love for writing and an unwavering passion to effect change, I have failed to write consistently. I acknowledge that I haven't done enough, despite possessing the means to contribute more. Were I to depart today, my soul would bear the burden of an unfulfilled purpose until the end of time.

Desmond John Beddy

https://www.beddy.de

Following several complaints about the time schedule of your favorite advertising and entertaining platform "WEEKEND VYBEZ", the time has been changed with effect from today, Saturday, the 25^th of March 2017. The program is hosted by one of Germany's prolific radio voices, Effiya and co-host Hennoch on Radio TopAfric Germany. The show has captivated a massive audience who crave for a more convenient time so they could really enjoy the program.http://topafric.radio.de

The program which previously aired every Sunday 20:00 - 22:00Hrs (CET), will from now air every Saturday.

WINTER TIME 

18:00 - 20:00Hrs (CET)
17:00 - 19:00Hrs (UK & GHANA) 
13:00 - 15:00Hrs (USA)

18:00 - 20:00Hrs (S A)

SUMMER TIME
18:00 - 20:00Hrs (CET)
16:00 - 18:00Hrs (UK & GHANA)

13:00 - 15:00Hrs(USA)
18:00 - 20:00Hrs (S A) 

Don't miss today's program as it promised to bring you intriguing interviews, thought provoking topics, fun, gist, news update on Germany, beyond and many more, that will brighten up your Saturdays every weekend. Do visit our website www.topafric.com for more news update on German. Also like our Facebook page, twitter, Instagram and snapchat and keep yourself informed, wherever you are.

Weekend Vybez! http://topafric.radio.de
Bringing you vybez as we vybe!

Don't Miss It!

EFFIYA EPHYA