Introduction:
Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative (OAYWI) is a socio-cultural and welfare organization established to address the needs of Yala community and promote social development in the region. The organization was founded with the vision of improving the quality of life for community members and preserving the cultural heritage of the Yala people.
Background:
Yala is a community located in the Northern part of Cross River State, for the purpose of this Union, Yala can be defined with limitation to the socio cultural proximity of a people who differ slightly in spoken languages but all with a common culture, heritage, dreams, and destiny. The lineage is made up of Yala people, Yache people, and Igede people who are found within the geopolitical entity called Yala Local government Area. The people are renowned for their rich cultural traditions and close-knit community bonds. However, like many rural communities, it faces various socio-economic challenges, including limited access to education, infrastructures, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Scope of the Initiative:
Education: OAYWI aims to enhance educational opportunities for the youth of Yala by providing scholarships, educational materials, and support for infrastructure development in local schools. Additionally, the initiative seeks to promote literacy and lifelong learning among community members.
Healthcare: Improving healthcare access and facilities is a primary objective of OAYWI. The initiative works to organize medical camps, provide essential medicines, and collaborate with healthcare professionals to address the health needs of the community. It also emphasizes preventive healthcare through awareness campaigns and health education programs.
Cultural Preservation: Yala has a rich cultural heritage that OAYWI endeavors to preserve and promote. The initiative organizes cultural events, festivals, and workshops to celebrate traditional practices, languages, music, and art forms. By doing so, it aims to instill pride in the community’s cultural identity and pass it on to future generations.
Economic Empowerment: OAYWI is committed to fostering economic empowerment within its communities by supporting sustainable livelihood initiatives, vocational training programs, and entrepreneurship development. By creating opportunities for income generation, the initiative seeks to alleviate poverty and promote self-reliance among community members.Social Welfare: Addressing the social welfare needs of vulnerable groups such as orphans, widows, and persons with disabilities is a key focus area for OAYWI. The initiative provides assistance in the form of food aid, shelter, healthcare, and psychosocial support to those in need, aiming to ensure their dignity and well-being.Objectives:To enhance educational opportunities and literacy rates among the youth of Yala.To improve access to quality healthcare services and promote preventive healthcare practices.To preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Yala community.To empower community members economically through skills development and entrepreneurship.To provide social welfare support to vulnerable groups within the community.
Leadership:The founding Chairman of Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative was Okori Ben Oko, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for the organization’s establishment and growth. Presently, the Chairman of OAYWI is Dominic Ogri, who continues to lead the initiative with passion and commitment towards achieving its objectives, while utilising the great counsel and guidance of a robust Board Of Trustees headed by Barr. SO Ogar.
Conclusion:
Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative plays a crucial role in promoting socio-cultural development and improving the quality of life for the people and residents of Yala. Through its comprehensive scope and focused objectives, the initiative strives to create a positive impact and foster sustainable development within the community. With strong leadership and community support, OAYWI remains steadfast in its mission to empower, uplift, and transform the lives of the people it serves.