Professional Photographers Document Community Action Ghana’s Projects
A Chance Meeting Sparks a Powerful Collaboration
This September, Adrian and Iraj on a visit to ongoing projects in Ghana were joined by professional photographers to highlight the impact of Community Action Ghana. The collaboration began by chance, during a cycling trip through the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, where they met renowned photographer Anthony Dawton.
Anthony immediately noticed that our website images could better reflect the scale of our work. Determined to help, he secured funding to cover travel for himself and fellow photographer Jim McFarlane—and secured a £6,000 donation towards a vital clean water project in Anfo Bume, located in Ghana’s Volta Region.
Photography with Purpose: Bringing Ghana’s Communities to Life
Before heading north, the team explored parts of Accra, including a visit to the historic Black Star Square, where Ghana declared independence in 1957. These moments provided the first chance to capture Ghana’s vibrant culture and history through the lens.
With Christian driving our minibus—loaded with a powerful water pump, piping, fittings, window glass, paints, and luggage—we travelled to Anfo Bume. Upon arrival, we checked into the newly opened 7 Stars Hotel, named after the Pleiades constellation.
Life Before Clean Water: Salty Wells and Long Walks
That evening, as the golden hour set in, we walked towards the site where a new borehole was due to be drilled. The journey, only 1.5 km, took an hour and a half, as it coincided with women and children collecting water for evening use.
Their only supply came from a series of hand pumps tapping into a shallow aquifer—an unreliable and salty water source. A single sip confirmed it was unsuitable for drinking. This daily challenge highlighted why Community Action Ghana’s clean water projects are so urgently needed.
Adrian and Iraj had been asked not to take snaps as Anthony and Jim worked but we couldn’t avoid taking a few of them at work. We took them discretely and from a distance. Watching them was an inspiring lesson. Their skill at engaging people, organising scenes naturally, and capturing authentic expressions showed the true power of professional photography.
Seeing the community’s warmth and positivity reflected in their images made one thing clear. Strong visuals are essential for sharing Community Action Ghana’s story and inspiring continued support for our mission.
Why Professional Photography Matters for Community Action Ghana
Our work in Ghana is deeply human, rooted in people’s daily lives, struggles, and successes. Photography helps us bring these stories to the world—connecting supporters directly with the communities they help.
This collaboration will deliver professional-quality images for our website but also strengthen awareness of our mission: to provide sustainable clean water solutions in Ghana and support community-led development across the Volta Region and beyond.
Watch the transformation of our website over the next few weeks as it is altered by the wonderful work of Anthony and Jim.
Blog to be continued …………………………………..
