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West Africa celebrates a ‘miracle of growth’ 30 years after the creation of their first stake

Youth and young adults in the Tamale District of Ghana perform a cultural dance in celebration of the 100th stake and 30th anniversary of the first stake in the West Africa area. Credit: Intellectual Reserve, Inc., Intellectual Reserve, Inc.
Pioneers of three stakes in Kumasi, Ghana. The pioneers were honored in 2018 at a celebration for the 100th stake and 30th anniversary of the first stake in the West Africa region. Credit: Intellectual Reserve, Inc., Intellectual Reserve, Inc.

The creation of the Ojodu Nigeria Stake held special meaning for the Africa West Area of the Church, reported Mormon Newsroom.

Not only does this stake mark the 100th in West Africa, but comes on the 30th anniversary of the first stake established in 1988 in Aba, Nigeria.

The area presidency proposed a list activities to celebrate the milestone. Historical timeline banners, a pioneer recognition night, a cultural display and broadcast of a pioneer documentary were all included in the celebration.

"We invite all Latter-day Saints to celebrate this miracle of growth, and to invite their friends and neighbors to join with us," the letter from the Area Presidency said.

Early members of the Church in West Africa faced many challenges, but continued to show faith and resilience that has resulted in significant growth in the 10 countries that make up the area.

Stakes throughout the region celebrated the anniversary and milestone, and in Kumasi, Ghana, pioneering members were honored for their contributions.

"I felt so inspired, and I know that the Lord's time is the best and He indeed prepares a way for his children," Eliza Hooper Koufie, a member of the Asowka Stake who attended the event, said.

Youth and single adults in the Tamale region of Ghana performed cultural dances at their event.

Government and political leaders who attended one of the celebrations expressed their gratitude for being able to witness the historic moment.

Read more about the 100th stake and 30th anniversary celebrations here.

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