In a grand ceremony that followed a productive three-day retreat, the Universal Access Development Fund (UADF) hosted an elegant dinner to celebrate the achievements of key individuals who have made significant contributions to the organization’s vision and goals. The retreat focused on reflection, collaboration, and innovative ways to improve access to communication technology in rural communities across the nation, wrapped in an evening of recognition, gratitude, and future planning.

Held at a resort on the peninsular highway, the dinner was attended by high-ranking officials, esteemed guests, stakeholders from various sectors, and family members of UADF staff. All gathered to honor the dedicated leaders who have played pivotal roles in shaping the direction of UADF and the nation’s tech landscape. Several distinguished individuals were presented with awards for their outstanding leadership and contributions.

Recognizing Exceptional Leadership

The first recipient of the evening was the CEO of UADF, Madam Marie Momoh, who was awarded for her visionary leadership in steering the Fund towards its mission of promoting universal access to communication and technology in rural areas. The CEO’s tireless efforts to bridge the digital divides and ensure that underserved & unserved communities have access to critical technology were widely acknowledged. In her acceptance speech, Madam Momoh dedicated the award to her staff at UADF and highlighted the Fund’s commitment to creating inclusive digital spaces and the progress made during the retreat, where new initiatives were outlined to further these efforts.

The Deputy CEO, Mr. Abubakr Sappay Foray-Musa was recognized for his dedication and his role in ensuring the successful implementation of UADF’s programs. Known for his meticulous approach and strategic insights, the Deputy CEO’s efforts were integral to the Fund’s growth and its ability to address the evolving needs of the community. The award was a testament to his commitment to driving change and facilitating collaboration across various sectors.

The Director of Finance was also honored for his outstanding management of UADF’s financial resources, ensuring that every project is carried out with transparency and accountability. His financial acumen has enabled the Fund to efficiently allocate resources to maximize impact and ensure the sustainability of its programs. In his remarks, the Director of Finance expressed his appreciation for the collective effort of the team and dedicated the award to them.

Honoring Public Sector Champions

The dinner also honored key figures from the government, with the Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation being presented with an award for her pivotal role in the advancement of the country’s digital infrastructure. Her leadership in shaping national policies that support technological innovation and accessibility has had a lasting impact on the nation’s growth in the tech sector. The Minister expressed her appreciation for the partnership between UADF and the government.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation also received an award for his commitment to ensuring that the ministry’s objectives align with the broader goals of national digital transformation. His work in managing government initiatives and partnerships between various stakeholders has been crucial in driving progress within the sector. The Permanent Secretary took the opportunity to pledge the government’s continued commitment to improve digital access and empower citizens through technology.

Another highlight of the evening was the award presented to the Chairman of, the Parliamentary Committee on Communication, Technology & Innovation who has been a staunch advocate for inclusive digital transformation. Recognized for his advocacy for policies that promote access to digital services, the parliamentarian’s efforts have been instrumental in pushing for legislative changes that support the broader goals of UADF. His award reflected not only his commitment to public service but also his vision for a digitally empowered society.

A Night of Networking and Reflection

The dinner provided a perfect platform for reflection on the outcomes of the three-day retreat. Attendees had the opportunity to discuss the future of communication technology in the country, share insights from the retreat, and explore ways in which UADF can expand its reach to more marginalized communities. The retreat, which included workshops, discussions, and strategy sessions, focused on tackling challenges in digital inclusion, with, an emphasis on creating sustainable solutions that empower individuals in rural and underserved areas.

The event also allowed stakeholders to network and collaborate on potential projects that align with UADF’s mission. With the recent advancements made during the retreat, the atmosphere was one of optimism, as UADF continues to foster growth and innovation in the technology sector.

Looking Ahead

As the evening drew to a close, the dinner underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, civil society, and other stakeholders in achieving universal access to technology. The awards presented were not just a recognition of individual achievements but a celebration of the teamwork and shared vision that drive the Fund’s work.

In her closing remarks, the CEO of UADF, Madam Momoh expressed her gratitude to all the guests and echoed the Fund’s commitment to its mission. She called for continued support and collaboration from all sectors to ensure that the benefits of technology reach every corner of the country, empowering individuals and communities aligning with the Government’s BIG FIVE GAME CHANGERS.

As the event ended, it was clear that UADF was poised to make even greater strides in promoting digital equity, with its leadership and dedicated partners leading the way.