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WAD - Pathfinders' Inspiring Journey: 156 Miles on Foot to Camporee

Posted on janv. 04 2024

WEST-CENTRAL AFRICA DIVISION - Pathfinders' Inspiring Journey: 156 Miles on Foot to Camporee
By Abraham Bakari

[Photo: Henry and two companions of the walk in AY uniform]
Accra, Ghana — In a remarkable display of commitment and resilience, Henry Smith, a member of the Adventist Youth Ministries, along with pathfinders Millicent Anna Stella Asane and Lawrence Manful, embarked on a four-day journey on foot from Takoradi to the Valley View University campus in Oyibi, Accra. Their destination: the 4th West Central Africa Division - WAD Dream Pathfinder Camporee, scheduled for December 24-30, 2023.

[Photo: Henry Smith]
Setting out on December 21, 2023, the trio covered an impressive 156 miles, arriving at the Camporee’s opening ceremony on December 25. Despite the long journey, they appeared emotionally moved rather than exhausted, receiving a hero's welcome from over 8,000 participants, including Youth leaders from the General Conference and the Division.
This pilgrimage, led by Henry Smith, has been a tradition since 1996. The Adenta District Youth Director in Accra, Adu Gyamfi, explained, "Henry walks to the campsite regardless of its location, raising funds for orphans along his journey." This year, he was joined by two fellow pathfinders in this charitable venture.
As they reached the Valley View University campus, a police escort and youth band greeted them, and the WAD Youth Ministries department honored them with special recognition and awards.
This journey, mirroring Joseph's painful trek to Egypt, enriched the Camporee experience, aligning with the evening dramas that offered insights into Joseph's life, followed by Pastor Busi Khumalo's wisdom-filled words.
Pastor Alfred Asiem, WAD Youth Ministries Director, provided a historic perspective on the event, focusing on Joseph's Biblical journey. He emphasized the Camporee's role in fostering fellowship, socialization, spiritual renewal, and revival. We bring our pathfinders together for fellowship, for socialization, for spiritual renewal and revival.”

[Photo: Dr. Sessou Selom, WAD's Executive Secretary]
Dr. Sessou Selom, WAD's Executive Secretary, in his opening address, highlighted Joseph's story as an example of how dreams shape purpose-driven lives. He underscored the pivotal role of young people in the church, noting that they represent over 70% of WAD's 1,000,000 members. “We pray that they'll really have dreams because as they dream and they collaborate with God, the Church of God in West Central Africa division will have a brighter future.”
Pr. Busi Khumalo, the General Conference Youth Director and special guest, emphasized the Camporee as a platform for learning, networking, and spiritual nourishment. “In Camporee we learn to have fun. We meet new friends, we meet old friends. We attend honor classes. We learn skills and many other powerful things.”

[Photo: Pastor Irvine Gwataringa, Youth Director of the Southern Africa Indian Ocean Division]

Notably, Irvine Gwataringa, Youth Director of the Southern Africa Indian Ocean Division, delivered the early morning devotions throughout the week.
Participants shared their excitement, with Anike praising the opening day's fireworks and Alvin from Liberia expressing awe at the camp's beauty and comfort.
Lia Farhane Allah-Ridy from Chad also shared her joy, anticipating similar activities in future Camporees.
As Pastor Alfred Asiem would say : “by the grace of God, we have not registered any casualty, any accident. Our vision was achieved.”
Security remained tight, with an intruder arrested on December 23, ensuring a safe and successful event. Apart from minor transport and border issues, the Camporee proceeded without major incidents, culminating in a collective expression of gratitude to God.