Essien: I'm Ready To Promote Peace in Africa

The midfield generalissimo is partnering the AU to draw attention to the plight of millions who have been displaced through wars and conflict. It is also hoped that through their efforts warring factions will lay down their arms for the good of Africa and the World. “Le Bison” as the Ghanaian international is widely known known, stressed that he will do all he can to impress on Africans to stop fighting and concentrate on reducing poverty on the continent. As to whether people would listen to his campaign message and take him seriously he said, because football brings people together so Africans will definitely listen to him. Essien emphasized that the campaign would not be a one day wonder, but a continuous programme. As part of his campaign, Essien hinted that, football matches would be played across the sub-region to send messages around to help maintain peace in Africa. Commenting on his personal foundation to support the needy, the midfielder stated that he has given out some books to help the young ones to be well educated in future. The Michael Essien Foundation (MEF) is a local Ghanaian NGO founded by Michael Essien, the renowned Ghanaian International and Chelsea Football Club Star. It aims to create opportunities and hope for the underprivileged in Awutu Breku his hometown and in other areas of Ghana. The goal of the MEFis to promote basic community amenities and opportunities for various groups through different projects and activities. Touching on the departure of Milovan Rajevac as coach of the Black Stars who has joined Saudi side Al Ahly, after a lucrative deal in the Arab country, Essien expressed disappointment that the astute Serbian could not stay on. He was however, confident that the Ghana Football Association is capable of appointing a competent coach to lead the country. “It’s very sad for me to hear that the coach has left but straight up these things happen,” the Chelsea midfielder Essien said. “I will leave everything for the FA to appoint a new coach. They will look around and choose the right person for the team.”