By Kingsley Webora TANKEH

Nearly 100 members from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) Ghana participated in their initial fitness stroll, challenging the perception that accountants are “dull.” The first wellness walk was arranged by the recently established CIMA Ghana Welfare Committee, which was formally introduced during the gathering.

Recognized by planners as an overwhelming triumph, the gathering represented a major milestone in fostering a more robust and unified CIMA Ghana network.

Above all, the event highlighted the personal aspect of the profession. “People claim accountants are dull, but we aren’t. Are we dull? No!” said Mrs. Yvonne Dzotsi, a member of the CIMA Ghana Welfare Committee, prompting laughs and nods of approval. “We also enjoy socializing. It’s an excellent opportunity for building connections.”

The march began at the University of Ghana Athletes Oval, passed through the law school via the administrative building, and returned to the original location.

After the event, Mr. Augustus Jojo Gaisie, Chairperson of the CIMA Ghana Welfare Committee, thanked the participants for dedicating their time, noting that the number of attendees surpassed his predictions.

Comprising 200 members across various disciplines, CIMA Ghana functions as a tightly-knit professional organization. Nevertheless, there have not been intentional initiatives to hold social events aimed at enhancing connections and enabling members to interact and become better acquainted—until the establishment of the CIMA Welfare Committee.

The group was formed with the aim of enhancing member wellness by setting up a framework where their well-being concerns can be handled before they become critical. It aims to offer help to members during major life changes, organize aid when required, and build a more connected membership environment.

The establishment of this committee highlights CIMA Ghana’s dedication to fostering a professional network that extends past individual career paths; an environment that genuinely promotes the overall well-being of its members.

Almost 100 members attended – accounting for nearly half of CIMA Ghana’s total of 200 members – which conveyed a strong message about the members’ eagerness to connect. “We hadn’t anticipated so many people showing up,” Mr. Gaisie acknowledged.

“They surpassed the budget. However, thanks to God’s kindness, we managed to cover it. This demonstrates that we’re serious. We truly intend to unite,” he said.

Mr. Gaisie highlighted that the event went beyond mere physical activity. “CIMA is an international professional body. We felt it was crucial for us as members to understand our own identities, unite to reinforce the CIMA association, and enhance its dynamism.”

The desire for connection was also expressed by Mrs. Dzotsi. She described the origin of the Welfare Committee: “We all gathered since we were all on a similar level but hadn’t met before… unless there were events, which felt quite unusual.”

Drawing inspiration from the active initiatives of organizations such as ICAG, CIMA Ghana members chose to take action. “This marks our inaugural event, with many more expected,” said Dzotsi. “Our objective is to assist our members, bring them together, pinpoint areas of concern, and subsequently aid in resolving these issues.”

This involves tangible help such as combining resources to aid bereaved families following the passing of a member, assisting younger members with their weddings, and offering additional required support during difficult periods.

A trustee of the CIMA Benevolent Fund, as well as a member of the Welfare Committee, Mrs. Yvonne Dzotsi emphasized the presence of the fund, its purpose, and the eligibility criteria for those seeking help. She mentioned that the fund offers vital monetary aid to members experiencing significant difficulties caused by unemployment, health issues, or other situations that hinder their ability to work.

“We rarely receive many applications from Africa,” Dzotsi mentioned, pointing out that this is partially due to cultural dependence on familial assistance and reluctance to seek aid. Mrs. Dzotsi emphasized that asking for help is not a sign of vulnerability but instead recognizes the collective power found within the CIMA group, guaranteeing all members a private and unbiased evaluation conducted by the Fund’s administrators.

The momentum generated from the productive walk is already supporting upcoming initiatives. Mr. Gaisie revealed the next key event: a Year-End Gathering set for December 14th, with hopes of attracting even larger participation. “The message we delivered will reach the other members… perhaps at the next gathering, I anticipate something bigger than what we’ve achieved so far.”

Mrs. Dzotsi strongly urged participants to sign up as volunteers for CIMA’s different committees — the West Africa Area Network, Regional Panel, and global initiatives — highlighting the importance of contributing through service. “It makes a difference. Please nominate yourself and get involved.”

The CIMA Ghana Health Walk went beyond counting footsteps; it represented progress toward building a stronger, more united, and energetic professional network, effectively challenging the stereotype of accountants as dull individuals and opening doors to an exciting future for management accounting in Ghana.

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