Arena for Development Advocates (ADA) is a community-based, non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing inclusive development and social empowerment. Established in 2025 in Nsawam, Ghana, ADA was founded with the vision of creating a responsive and participatory platform that brings together community members, civil society actors, and development partners to address pressing social and developmental challenges.
At the core of ADA’s work is the belief that sustainable development is only achievable when people are empowered to actively shape their own futures. Our initiatives focus on building local capacities, promoting social inclusion, and supporting community-led solutions that address real needs. Through empowerment programs, capacity-building activities, advocacy, and social development projects, ADA aims to improve skills, enhance livelihoods, and foster civic participation.
ADA stands for empowerment, inclusion, and social justice. We believe in strengthening the capacities of individuals and communities to actively participate in their own development. Our values are guided by equity, transparency, collaboration, and accountability. We advocate for social development initiatives that promote equal opportunities, community participation, and sustainable solutions that improve livelihoods and enhance social well-being.
The objectives of Arena for Development Advocates (ADA) are guided by our commitment to empowering communities, promoting inclusive development, and fostering sustainable social change.
Our team at Arena For Development Advocates (ADA) is made up of dedicated professionals, community leaders,
and volunteers who are passionate about driving social change and community development.
We bring
together a diverse mix of expertise in project coordination, research, advocacy, capacity building, and
community engagement. Each member is committed to our mission of empowering communities, promoting inclusive
development, and fostering sustainable social transformation. By working collaboratively and leveraging our
collective skills, we ensure that our programs are effective, impactful, and responsive to the needs of the
communities we serve
Dr. Paul Kwaku Larbi Anderson is a researcher, social scientist, and development practitioner with a strong commitment to inclusive development and community empowerment. As Executive Director of Arena for Development Advocates (ADA), he provides strategic leadership and vision, guiding the organization’s efforts to promote sustainable community development and social transformation. With a solid background in research, policy analysis, and community-based interventions, Dr. Anderson brings evidence-based approaches to development practice. He is dedicated to strengthening local capacities, fostering partnerships, and amplifying community voices to ensure that development initiatives are impactful, participatory, and sustainable.
Enock Osae Gyan serves as Secretary and Project Coordinator at Arena for Development Advocates (ADA). He is responsible for coordinating project activities, supporting planning and implementation processes, and ensuring effective documentation and communication within the organization. In his role as Secretary, he also oversees record keeping, meeting coordination, and organizational correspondence, contributing to the smooth and efficient functioning of ADA’s programs and operations. .
ustice Ahiakpati is a member of Arena for Development Advocates (ADA) and serves as a Community Development Officer. He works closely with local communities to identify needs, support community-led initiatives, and encourage active participation in development programs. Through community engagement and grassroots coordination, he contributes to the effective implementation of ADA’s projects and the empowerment of community members.
Melvin Morrison serves as the Research, Capacity Building & Training Officer at Arena for Development Advocates (ADA). He leads research activities that inform evidence-based programming while designing and delivering capacity-building and training initiatives for communities and stakeholders. His role supports skills development, knowledge sharing, and the strengthening of institutional and community capacities to achieve sustainable development outcomes.
Sylvester Nunya serves as the IT & Data Management Officer at Arena for Development Advocates (ADA). He is responsible for managing the organization’s digital systems, data collection processes, and information management tools. Sylvester supports efficient communication, ensures data accuracy and security, and provides technical support that enhances program implementation, monitoring, and reporting across the organization.