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Minister-designate for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has unveiled a plan to establish a dedicated desk within the ministry aimed at securing global funding for youth-centred initiatives.
During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 22, Opare Addo highlighted that this desk would focus on seeking international partnerships and investments to facilitate the successful execution of the National Youth Manifesto outlined by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“If this committee graciously gives me the nod, one of the first things I intend to set up is a desk at the ministry that will go around the world and solicit funding to support initiatives of young people,” Opare Addo declared, outlining his commitment to addressing the needs of Ghana’s youth.
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Acknowledging the challenges posed by Ghana’s current economic situation, Opare Addo noted that securing external funding would be vital for fulfilling the ministry’s ambitious agenda. He expressed confidence that despite the economic constraints, President Mahama’s administration would prioritise youth development and allocate the necessary resources.
“I believe that when His Excellency President Mahama decided to establish the Ministry for Youth Development, he had a plan and a vision. I want to believe strongly that he will make resources available even though we are under austerity,” Opare Addo stated.
In response to concerns about funding limitations, he referenced the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ previous budget allocation of approximately GH₵ 35 million before the ministry was decoupled. While awaiting confirmation of the new ministry’s allocation, Opare Addo expressed confidence in President Mahama’s dedication to adequately fund youth-focused programs.
“I am yet to sit down with the finance minister to determine how much will be allocated. However, I know how passionate His Excellency is about youth issues, and I want to strongly believe they will heavily fund this ministry to resolve the many challenges confronting young people,” he assured.
Through the establishment of the fundraising desk, Opare Addo aims to ensure that the government’s plans for youth empowerment are fully supported, regardless of fiscal constraints, by leveraging international resources to bolster local youth initiatives.
