The YAFO Institute has held its annual Heroes of Liberty Dinner and Awards Ceremony to celebrate individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to advancing leadership, liberty, and policy development in Ghana.
The event took place in Accra on December 26, 2025, and brought together policymakers, media professionals, and other key stakeholders.
Speaking at the ceremony, the President of the YAFO Institute, Mr. Nathaniel Dwamena, explained that awards were presented across several categories, including Best Staff, Best Volunteers, Outstanding Individual Department Members, and Media Excellence. He noted that recipients of the media awards were recognized for amplifying the institute’s work and ensuring its messages reached a wider audience.
“Today is set aside to honour everyone who played a role in helping us achieve our mission this year. This is the second time we are organizing this ceremony. We started in 2024, continued in 2025, and it is our plan to make it an annual event,” Mr. Dwamena stated.
He used the occasion to call on Ghanaians to support think tank organizations, noting that their research and policy advocacy play a critical role in national development.
He emphasized that dissenting opinions and evidence-based viewpoints are essential tools for shaping better policies and outcomes for the country.
Touching on the Virtual Asset Bill, Mr. Dwamena said the initiative forms part of a broader ECOWAS regional effort to regulate virtual assets. However, he stressed the need for broader stakeholder consultations before the Bank of Ghana finalizes the bill.
“The intention behind the bill is good, particularly in addressing money laundering and related crimes, but the current approach could create challenges. The crypto space is largely transparent, and transactions are visible in real time,” he explained, urging regulators to view cryptocurrency as an innovation rather than primarily as a crime avenue.
He further advised the public to exercise caution when engaging in cryptocurrency trading. “People must use trusted platforms, avoid third parties, and ensure transactions are backed by smart contracts. When smart contracts are involved, participants can be assured of safety within the crypto space,” he added.
The event concluded with renewed calls for innovation-friendly policies and stronger collaboration to position Ghana for sustained economic and technological growth.
