ACCRA, GHANA – The Rotary Club of Accra-South and the entire Ghanaian Rotary community are beaming with pride as we celebrate a monumental milestone. We are thrilled to announce that Past District Governor (PDG) and Endowment/Major Gifts Adviser (EMGA) Yvonne Kumoji-Darko has been honored with the prestigious Service Above Self Award for the 2025-2026 Rotary year.

This award is not merely a trophy; it is the highest honor bestowed upon an individual Rotarian by the Board of Directors of Rotary International. Globally, no more than 150 recipients are selected annually from over 1.4 million members, making this recognition an elite testament to a lifetime of sacrifice and leadership.

A Trailblazer for Ghana

PDG Yvonne’s recognition is particularly historic, as she is believed to be the first Ghanaian Rotarian to receive this accolade. Out of the tens of thousands of clubs worldwide, she stands among a select group of only 50 individuals recognized this year, further cementing her status as a titan of humanitarian service.

A Legacy of Visionary Leadership

Her impact on the landscape of Rotary in West Africa is unparalleled. PDG Yvonne is widely celebrated for her instrumental role in initiating the Redistricting process, a visionary effort that successfully culminated in Ghana being recognized as its own independent district: District 9104. This structural shift has empowered local clubs to have a greater voice and more direct impact on national development.

Beyond redistricting, her tenure has been defined by:

• Philanthropic Excellence: As an EMGA, she has championed the Rotary Foundation, securing the resources needed to fund life-changing projects globally.

• Inspiration & Mentorship: She has served as a beacon for new and seasoned Rotarians alike, proving that leadership is about the lives you transform, not just the titles you hold.

A Global Standard of Excellence

The Service Above Self Award is reserved for those who have demonstrated exemplary humanitarian service, with an emphasis on personal volunteer efforts and active involvement in helping others. Yvonne Kumoji-Darko does not just meet these criteria; she defines them.

"Your dedication sets a remarkable example for all Rotarians. We celebrate this outstanding achievement and recognize the exceptional heart you bring to our community."

As we look toward the future of District 9104, we do so with the confidence that comes from having leaders like PDG Yvonne at the helm of our history.

Congratulations, PDG/EMGA Yvonne Kumoji-Darko! Your Rotary family salutes you.