The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, and the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Ocloo, have distributed over 500 hot meals to head porters and the underprivileged in the Tudu and Cocoa Marketing Board (CMB) areas of the Central Business District (CBD) to mark the maiden National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.

The exercise, which began around 5 pm, drew large crowds of excited head porters and less privileged who cheered and rushed forward as the Mayor and Regional Minister handed out packed meals as part of efforts to demonstrate compassion and solidarity.

Speaking during the exercise, Mayor Allotey explained that the gesture was inspired by the National Prayers and Thanksgiving Service led by the President earlier in the day to thank God for the peace the country continues to enjoy.

“Today, the President led the nation to prayer and to thank God for the peace we are enjoying in Ghana,” he stated, adding, “So I joined hands with the Regional Minister to feed some head porters and less privileged people because not all of us made it there.”

He noted that it was a divine duty to care for one another, emphasising that “it is the Lord’s work to do good”, hence their decision to reach out and support people to make ends meet.

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo also reiterated the Mayor’s sentiments, noting that supporting the less privileged was a moral responsibility that leaders must embrace.

She said the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving under the theme:One Nation Under God: Giving Thanks, Seeking Grace" reflects the dual purpose of the observance while expressing gratitude for national blessings while seeking divine guidance for the future.

Some of the head porters, many carrying large basins on their heads, expressed their gratitude for the unexpected support.

Another beneficiary, Samuel Kofi Mensah, who was passing through the area, said he was touched by the gesture, describing the Mayor as a humble man.

The way he talks to us traders is very respectful and humble. I like him, and may God bless him for all he is doing for us," he said.