BY: GLORIA ANDERSON
The Ghana Evangelical Missions Association (GEMA) has marked its significant milestone, 35th anniversary with a renewed focus on strengthening and equipping young missionaries. A key objective of the celebrations is to establish a state-of-the-art research and training center, dubbed “Vision 2040 ” aimed at providing missionaries with the necessary skills and knowledge before they embark on their missions.
According to the president of GEMA, Rev Dr. Godwin Ahlijah, finding the right candidates for mission work has been a significant challenge, making the training facility a vital component of their strategy. The association is driven by a vision to transform Ghana from a recipient of missionaries to a country that sends missionaries to the world. “By 2040, “GEMA aims to sponsor at least 30,000 Ghanaian missionaries, both locally and globally. This ambitious goal is part of a broader effort to mobilize young, educated, and dedicated individuals to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ worldwide.” He said.
As the umbrella body for mission agencies in Ghana, GEMA has grown exponentially since its inception, now encompassing over 50 associations with more expected to join.
Rev Ahilijah emphasized that GEMA’s impact is palpable across Ghana, with member bodies providing vital services, including the provision of freshwater wells to rural communities. “This initiative is particularly timely, given the current concerns over water contamination and the devastating impact of galamsey activities on the nation’s water resources.
Additionally, Rev Ahilijah reiterated that GEMA’s primary motivation stems from a deep-seated passion for God and gratitude for divine blessings.” This core value drives GEMA’s commitment to finding solutions to the pressing issues affecting Ghanaians, demonstrating its dedication to serving the nation. GEMA’s efforts extend beyond water provision, with initiatives in Bible translation, education, and healthcare , socio-economic development and missionary leadership.” He noted.
Giving the keynote address Professor Emeritus Stephen Adei, highlighted how GEMA has been instrumental in promoting mission work across the country since its inception in 1990. Prof. Adei noted that, with a focus on providing access to the Bible in local languages and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in unreached communities, GEMA has collaborated with approximately 50 church and parachurch groups to achieve its objectives. “The association’s efforts have yielded significant results, with missionaries now present in every region of Ghana.
GEMA’s members include notable institutions such as the Ghana Institute of Linguistics, which is dedicated to translating the Bible into major Ghanaian languages. This initiative has been crucial in making scripture accessible to communities across the country” he said
The President and Founder of International Leadership Foundation Global , Prof. Delanyo Adadevoh, believes partnership with GEMA is a game-changer . He emphasized that,collaborating with GEMA is a top-notch opportunity that everyone must seize.”Spreading the gospel message is life-transforming and gives a sense of responsibility to contribute to the greater good of all humanity.”
The call to partner with GEMA is seen as an opportunity for individuals and organizations to contribute to this noble cause and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others” he revealed.
The ceremony which brought together dignitaries, member bodies both from foreign countries and Ghana, featured a vibrant harmony and reflections on GEMA’s remarkable journey.
Fundraising was a highlight of the event, as members contributed towards the building of ultramodern missionary training centres across Ghana and beyond .
GEMA has been a beacon of hope and faith for almost 40 years, with a rich history that showcases its commitment to spreading love, compassion, and redemption. Its impact reaches various institutions, training dedicated church leaders. As GEMA celebrates this milestone, it’s reflecting on how to deepen its impact and commitment to humanity.
Vision 2040 is a 20-year plan for Ghana and beyond, aiming to help the church fulfill its mandate to spread the Gospel to all parts of Ghana and the world, focusing on unreached people through partnerships with GEMA mission agencies.
