As we come to the close of another meaningful year, we pause with grateful hearts to reflect on the faithfulness of God that has carried us through every challenge, every victory, and every quiet moment in between. Month after month, we have witnessed His guidance, His protection, and His provision in ways both seen and unseen. Challenges have come, yet in every season, the Lord has renewed our strength and given us fresh hope to continue the work to which He has called us.

This final Impact Update of the year isn’t simply a collection of updates—it is a testimony to what God can do when His people join hands, pray boldly, and remain faithful in service. Each story shared within these pages reflects lives touched, communities strengthened, and the light of Christ shining in Northern Ghana. It also reflects you—your prayers, your partnership, and your willingness to stand with us as God continues to transform hearts and build His Kingdom.

As you read, may you be reminded that we do not finish this year in our own strength, but in the unfailing strength of the One who goes before us. And as we step into a new year, we do so with renewed hope, trusting that the God who sustained us in 2025 will lead us faithfully into all that is ahead.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”— Isaiah 40:31

GHANA HEALTH Partners Update

BY: DR. JENNIFER WILSON, Director of International Partnerships Canadian Consultant for Family & Emergency Medicine, Leyaata Hospital, GRID Board Member & GHP Team Lead

This year, Ghana Health Partners (GHP) continued to build on nearly two decades of commitment to sustainable healthcare in Northern Ghana.

Through ongoing collaboration with Leyaata Hospital, GHP teams worked alongside Leyaata staff to provide essential clinical services across maternity, emergency, operating theatres, dental, eye, and paediatric care — from life-saving surgeries and neonatal care to the hospital’s first anaesthetized oral surgery.

Equally important, GHP focused on capacity-building: every mission included hands-on training for local staff — from midwives trained in newborn care to mental-health awareness workshops, lab and pharmacy development, and enhanced skills in emergency response.

These efforts are strengthening hospital systems for the long term and empowering Ghanaian health professionals to lead high-quality care with confidence and compassion.

Dr. David Aduwia invited Dr. Tiffany to observe a hernia repair.

Leyaata’s first oral surgery case.

GHP Eye Team, with Ghanaian ophthalmologist and Leyaata’s optometrist, Dr. Acheampong.

Dr. Josh preserving vision for this man who translated the Bible into the local Mo language.

ER head-to-toe assessment training.

Chest tube training station.

Leyaata Hospital Achieves Impressive SafeCare Score

Leyaata Hospital has earned an outstanding 4 out of 5 in its recent SafeCare assessment—an international benchmark for healthcare quality. Among Christian Health Association of Ghana’s 311 facilities, only four had ever reached this score; Leyaata is now the fifth.

We thank God for the dedicated staff, the GHPs whose training and mentorship strengthened the team, and all who helped build the vision of a model hospital offering quality, Christ-centered care each day.

80 Children Treated Through New Partnership

A new partnership with Compassion International has enabled 80 children from neighbouring communities to receive hernia surgeries under the leadership of Dr. David Aduwia, with strong support from Leyaata Hospital’s four other doctors. This collaboration is bringing relief, healing, and renewed hope to families across the region.

Two children calmly being led to the theatre for their surgeries.

BEST FARMER AWARD

We are delighted to report that NEA received the ‘Best Farmer’ Award for the Savannah Region, presented at the National Farmer’s Day. This is in recognition of the impact we are having in food production (crops, poultry, ostriches, emus, pigs, cattle, mushrooms, gardens, fish) in the area, which contributes to food security.

Savannah Regional Minister Hon. Isifu Salisu Bi-Awurobe (left) presenting the award to Soale Gbeadese, NEA’s Project Manager (right).

Dr. David Mensah with the tractor donated this year, which will help NEA increase food production in 2026.

Emmanuel – god with us

BY: BRENDA MENSAH, GRID & NEA Program Coordinator

Thirty-five years ago, David and I stepped onto a plane with our three little girls, trusting God as we began serving in Ghana. We knew Janga’s needs were great, but had no clear roadmap. Looking back, we marvel at how God guided and provided. Within ten years, Janga was thriving with improved health, schools, a clinic, wells, a busy market, and a growing church.

God then led us to Bole District, where the needs were even greater. Since then, development has reached 160+ villages, peacebuilding has touched 250+ communities, 48 churches have been established, pastors trained, students sponsored, food security strengthened, and healthcare made accessible through Leyaata Hospital.

On a recent walk through the hospital wards, I saw lives being saved—mothers after emergency deliveries and children recovering from surgeries. God is still with us.

To each of you who have prayed, encouraged, given, and served—thank you. Your faithfulness has carried this work.

As we close 2025, our prayer is that Emmanuel will also be with you and bless your journey.

looking forward

Queen Mothers Meeting

This month, about 50 Queen Mothers will gather in Carpenter. These respected leaders serve as advisors and peacebuilders. Please pray for unity, fruitful discussions, and safe travels.

ECAC Christmas Conference & Outreach

This year, Evangelical Christ Apostolic Church (ECAC) will hold its Christmas Conference & Outreach in Tinga. Since 2010, many have come to know Christ, a congregation formed, and a church building built with support from Uxbridge Baptist Church, Westney Heights, and Eastridge Evangelical Missionary Church.

New Churches & 2026 Christian Chiefs Conference

We are grateful that a faithful foundation partner has fully funded two new church buildings and the 2026 Christian Chiefs Conference, helping strengthen the church in Northern Ghana and equip leaders for Christ.

LEYAATA EDUCATION & RESEARCH NETWORK

In the new year, GRID & NEA, in partnership with Ghana Health Partners, Hernia International Carpenter, and Leyaata Hospital will be sharing the campaign for the LEARN Centre and dormitory, a hub for training Ghana’s future health professionals. Stay tuned!

FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION

“One generation shall commend Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.” – Psalm 145:4

Warm greetings to each of you, our faithful friends and partners!

This season has been rich with impact. We welcomed nearly 250 Christian Chiefs back to Carpenter—grateful for the peace they help uphold in Ghana. It was also a joy to host students and educators from Pacific Academy as we build a new partnership in education.

Time with ECAC pastors, lay-leaders and their spouses was equally encouraging, with mentorship flowing between generations.

Dr. Jennifer Wilson’s update reminds us how far the reach of our health partnerships has grown—well beyond Carpenter.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support,

Dr. David Mensah

GRID & NEA Executive Director

Nearly 250 Christian chiefs from across Northern Ghana came together in Carpenter for a powerful time of connection, prayer, and shared vision. These leaders are united in their commitment to pass on a legacy of faith—one that will bless families and communities for generations to come.

Pastors, elders, and their spouses participated in a rich time of teaching, fellowship, and prayer. God’s presence was evident throughout, and each attendee left renewed and equipped to carry the work of the Kingdom forward in their churches and communities.

In March, a team of teachers and students from Pacific Academy visited Carpenter to partner with local educators and support Sunday School ministry. Together, they shared knowledge, built relationships, and served with joy.

A New Season of Global Health Partnership

By: Dr. Jennifer Wilson, GRID Board Member, Canadian Consultant for Family and Emergency Medicine, Director of International Partnerships, Leyaata Hospital, Ghana

In 2007, Canadian health professionals travelled to Northern Ghana, planting the seeds of what became the Ghana Health Partners (GHP). Nearly 20 years later, GHP has evolved into a vibrant partnership with Leyaata Hospital—focused on sustainability, mentorship, and intergenerational learning.

Today, GHP strengthens Leyaata’s 200+ staff through teaching, consulting, and knowledge exchange. In 2025, three specialized teams are engaged:

• February – Our UK team led surgical and anesthesia mentorship and provided neonatal resuscitation training to midwives.

• April – Our Canadian team supported emergency care, nursing development, and neglected tropical diseases.

• November – Dental and eye care, lab/pharmacy/paramedic support, and mental health exploration.

This new phase includes support for the Hypertension Clinic and growing academic collaboration with the University of Toronto and KNUST (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology). This summer, joint faculty will lead courses on palliative care and quality improvement, with early research efforts underway.

At the heart of it all is Leyaata’s exceptional team—skilled, compassionate, and committed. Their leadership and vision inspire us as we work together to build a strong, sustainable future.

Next, we aim to raise funds for the Leyaata Education and Research Centre—a dedicated hub for in-person and virtual learning, simulation, skills labs, and professional development. It will anchor our partnership in a space designed for growth, innovation, and shared learning.

These missions are more than medical trips—they’re built on trust, humility, and friendship. It’s an honour to walk alongside Leyaata team, from generation to generation.

Dr. Anne Zeiddler with the midwives who just completed the Helping Babies Breathe course.

Surgery Team

Hypertension team with Dr. Charlie and Sandra Peniston

WHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED TOGETHER

BABANAYAA PROJECT

December 3, 2019 – October 25, 2024

The Ultimate Outcome anticipated for the Babanayaa Project was the improved well-being of women and girls in 40 rural communities in Ghana’s Savannah and Bono East Regions.

The actual outcomes are:

GRID & NEA gratefully acknowledge the Government of Canada’s contribution of $1.3 million towards this Project.

Latiegbere Women Co-op Farmers

“In Dagare culture, a woman is not allowed to own a farm independently. This project has broken that barrier (traditional norm) and we now own farms independent of men. This is a big change for us!”

Ayishetu Fuseini
Woman Co-op Farmer, Kwabenanum

"During my first harvest, my husband fell ill, and I was able to pay for his hernia surgery with the proceeds from my peanut sales. After his passing, I was left to raise our seven children alone. Without this peanut farming, I don't know how I would have managed."

Sulemana Bawah Haruna
Opinion Leader, Tahiru Akuraa

"Empowering women eases the burden on men. As a community leader, I advocate for women's welfare. Years ago, no woman here owned a goat—now, thanks to this project, many do."

Namesum Linda
Student Beneficiary

"I almost gave up my admission for my brother, but sponsorship made it possible. Now, as a third-year epidemiology student, I educate my community on disease prevention. Empowering one woman empowers many."

BABANAYAA TEAM

Mary Banowiri, Jonathan Cudjoe, Mumuni Nangmaan, Rachel Nyamekye, Prosper Yeaka

"The Babanayaa Project has greatly impacted rural communities in northern Ghana, transforming the lives of women farmers. They now freely own farms and property, a rarity before the project. Young girls who once had no hope of higher education now have opportunities. Social norms have shifted from male dominance to recognizing women as key contributors to their households and communities." - Mumuni Nangmaan

2 wells constructed

59 scholarships provided

CHURCH GROWTH

A pastor’s training was held, led by Pastor Bob Whitaker from Christ Community Church in Bloomington, USA.

Completion of the Janga Girls’ Dormitory!

NEA first connected with the Janga community in 1981. After ensuring the sustainability of earlier development initiatives, the project site buildings were repurposed for a new secondary school. Thanks to St. Paul’s Church – Leaskdale, the girls’ dormitory is now complete. The dormitory provides a safe living environment, reducing long daily walks to school. Girls can now study in the evenings instead of spending time on domestic tasks.

JANGA GIRLS DORMITORY

LEYAATA HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT TEAM

Isaac Ngula, Abraham Sayibu, Rachel Nyamekye, Dr. Ben Asubiojo, Soale Gbeadese, Dr. David Mensah, Mumuni Nangmaan, Amanda Aryee

LEYAATA HOSPITAL

January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2024

Two Years of Operations!

A dream began in 1972.

Progressed to a discussion after review of data from the annual international medical team visits that started in 2007.

The 2014 impact report titled “A Model Hospital for Carpenter” outlined plans to raise funds.

Today, that vision is a reality, with the hospital now operational 24/7, supported by a staff of 186 (as of December 31, 2024).

Celebrating the Impact & Completion of the Babanayaa Project

We celebrate the completion and profound impact of the Babanayaa Project, meaning “someday they will see that we have changed for the better.” While approved by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) in December 2019, its foundation was laid as early as 2014 when NEA began building trust and understanding the challenges faced by 40 communities through the Leyaata Maternal and Child Health Project.

This achievement would not have been possible without NEA’s dedicated team. Under Mumuni’s leadership, Rachel, Mary, Prosper, and Jonathan played vital roles in implementation, monitoring, and reporting—managing 1,000 farmers, supporting 60 students in colleges and universities, and overseeing the procurement and distribution of supplies, including 1,000 bags of peanuts, cutlasses, tarpaulins, boots, sacks, gloves, needles, string, and 2,000 unruly goats. Their efforts extended to land preparation, training, farm visits, problem-solving, and meticulous record-keeping.

We also recognize the wider NEA team—the Project Manager, drivers (who covered thousands of kilometers), mechanics (who kept vehicles running), hospitality staff (who provided accommodations and meals for training programs), site security, and accountants — for their invaluable support.

A special thanks to the GRID staff as well—Deborah Mensah and Jennifer Zhang for coordinating with NEA, project visits, and timely reporting to GAC, and Paul Lapointe and Tim Bayless for their behind-the-scenes work in accounting.

Ever grateful for your prayers and partnership,

Brenda Mensah
GRID Program Coordinator

MESSAGE FROM OUR BOARD CHAIR

When I look back over all that has been accomplished in the northern region of Ghana, I’m reminded of the words of an old hymn we used to sing: “To God be the glory, great things He has done.”

As I read the statistics in this impact report I once again realize, with God’s help, the impact GRID & NEA together has had by alleviating poverty in the over 160 villages where we are currently working. Our gracious partners who support these endeavors are so crucial to all that has been done to help create sustainability in these regions.

God has indeed done wonderful things, and there is still much work to be done. We covet not only your prayers but also your financial partnership. Many of you have been and continue to be a huge blessing to us and we are so grateful. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

David Butcher
GRID Chairman

https://grid-nea.org/2025/03/2024impactreport/

Restoring Hope, Rebuilding Lives

BY: DR. DAVID & BRENDA MENSAH, GRID & NEA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Over the past 40 years of work in Ghana, we have often looked directly into the eyes of countless men, women, and children, seeing the hopelessness etched there as they shared their burdens with us: widows struggling to feed their children; men whose entire year’s crops were destroyed by bushfires; students with dreams of further education but no one to support their school fees; the sick, unable to afford or access the medical care they desperately needed; and the hungry — one woman’s words still haunt us: “I can’t remember what it feels like to be full.”

BUT, by God’s grace and with your faithful partnership, we have seen that look of despair transform into one of joy and hope. Through your support, these same individuals have experienced restoration, triumph, and renewed purpose.

THANK YOU, on their behalf, for being a beacon of hope! As you read the stories that follow, know that you played a vital role in these transformations—and in so many others. May God continue to use us all to bring hope to those in despair.

Lovea’s journey is a testament to perseverance and the impact of support. In 2020, she gained admission to a nursing training institution in Ghana. However, her aging parents couldn’t afford the admission fees, forcing her to forfeit her spot. Determined to pursue her dreams, she moved to the city to take on menial jobs, saving every bit she could.

The following year, Lovea reapplied and was accepted once again, but the financial barrier remained. As her hopes of pursuing higher education began to fade, a friend told her about our scholarship program. She applied without hesitation and as a determined young woman who met all the eligibility criteria, her application was approved. With the support of our sponsorship program, Lovea enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Community Mental Health program. This year, she graduated as the best student in her class, achieving an impressive GPA of 3.86—just shy of the perfect 4. Lovea’s story is a powerful reminder of how opportunities, combined with determination, can transform lives.

One of the things that brings joy to parents, especially those in rural areas, is seeing their children thrive and access the same opportunities as their peers in larger towns and cities.

For Mr. Moses Kwadwo Lantoh, this dream was no different. He longed to see his daughter, Emmanuella, pursue higher education. However, financial hardship stood in the way.

Despite his age and the challenges involved, Mr. Lantoh traveled several
kilometers with Emmanuella to our project site, determined to seek
sponsorship for her education.

Thanks to our educational sponsorship program, Emmanuella is now pursuing
a Bachelor of Science in Disease Control and Epidemiology at a tertiary
institution, turning her father’s dream into a reality.

A 32-year-old woman visited Leyaata Hospital a year ago. Married with five children, she suffered from congenital cataracts in both eyes, a condition causing clouded vision. Despite years of herbal treatments, her sight did not improve. After the Leyaata Hospital’s optometrist’s review, she was recommended for cataract surgery. On July 26, 2024, a visiting opthalmologist operated on her right eye at the Leyaata Hospital. She recently returned for review and her sight is improving. She is now planning for surgery on her left eye. We thank God for restoring her hope and rebuilding her life. Indeed, our God rescues!

A NEW DAWN OF HOPE:
Launch of the Hypertension Clinic in Ghana’s Savannah Region

A group of community leaders, healthcare providers, and attendees celebrate the launch of the Hypertension Clinic, marking a transformative step towards better health care in the Savannah Region.

In Ghana’s Savannah Region, hypertension, often called the “silent killer,” affects nearly one in three people, many of whom are unaware of their condition. This year, a new hypertension clinic opened its doors, offering critical resources to address this pervasive health issue.

Launched on October 18, the clinic serves as a central hub where Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) and local Health Centers can refer patients for comprehensive hypertension care. Developed through a co-production approach led by Sandra Peniston, a team lead with Ghana Health Partners, the clinic was thoughtfully designed with input from local residents and healthcare providers. Community focus groups, supported by NEA, helped identify barriers to care, while insights from healthcare providers guided the creation of practical, effective solutions.

Drawing over 300 attendees, the clinic’s launch represents a new era of health and hope in the Savannah Region. With community support, this initiative is a major step in restoring health and saving lives.

” I am thrilled to partner with the Leyaata Hospital team to open the hypertension clinic, a crucial step in tackling the growing burden of hypertension in this region. This collaboration strengthens local health systems and highlights the transformative impact of co-produced interventions. Together, we are restoring hope and advancing toward a healthier future for all in Ghana.” – Sandra Peniston

These stories reflect the power of resilience and the unwavering hope that carries us through life’s toughest challenges. The restoration of hope in these lives is made possible through the partnership we share with you — our valued supporters and partners. We celebrate not only the journey but also the strength, faith, and perseverance of those who inspire us all. Together, we are building a future where hope not only survives, but thrives!

Looking Ahead – Rebuilding Continues

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12 NIV

The work that GRID has been doing in Northern Ghana since 1984 has always been, at its core, about restoring hope through building relationships and providing training and resources that allow the men and women of Northern Ghana to live, work and provide for their families with dignity and pride.

Over the years we’ve encouraged the growth of programs like Babanayaa which allows women to be self-sufficient through peanut farming, through education by providing scholarships and building schools and through health initiatives like constructing clinics and, most recently the Leyaata Hospital in Carpenter. We have also invested our time and resources into peace building, food security, environmental protection and water and sanitation projects.

But our work is not done. There is much more than remains for us to do. It is hard work, demanding sacrifices of time and resources. Nevertheless, we are motivated by the love of Jesus to serve the poor, and help struggling communities to meet their basic needs in a sustainable manner; we intend to continue this work until He returns. Working hand in hand with NEA (Northern Empowerment Association), to alleviate poverty and transform communities has had its challenges but it is so worthwhile when we see women becoming self-sufficient, or children having safe access to education, or pastors proudly welcoming their flock to a church building, instead of the grass under a tree.

Hope is nothing without faith! We at GRID work as a team to help fulfill the hopes and dreams that the precious people of northern Ghana long for. Through the endeavors of GRID and you, our partners in this mission we have helped build the faith in Christ needed to instill Hope and restoration!

We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for standing with us. This update we offer you can’t even come close to actually being there to be able to see what God has accomplished through His people. It is truly amazing to see. God Bless you as you continue to walk with us.

Yours in Christ,

David Butcher, GRID Chair