- The initiative aims to drive youth economic growth
- Experts call for solutions to Ghana's 19.7% youth unemployment rate
- Agribusiness and tech are key to creating opportunities for youth and women
The government is preparing to launch an extensive digital platform that will connect all 21 ministries, offering young entrepreneurs easy access to information on programs, funding options, and investment opportunities.
George Opare Addo, Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, introduced the project at the AgriBiz Youth and Women Dialogue in Accra, emphasizing its ability to simplify access to government-supported programs and stimulate youth-driven economic growth. “We are developing a digital platform where all ministries will present their programs and funding opportunities. This will allow young people to make well-informed decisions about where to invest and how to grow their businesses,” Opare Addo explained.
This initiative arrives at a time when Ghana’s youth unemployment rate is at 19.7%, with 57% of the population under 25. Experts suggest that targeted interventions are essential to providing young people with the necessary tools to thrive in business and entrepreneurship.
At the event, Daniel Antwi, Executive Director of Africa Skills Hub, highlighted the transformative potential of agribusiness in fostering economic development.
“This isn’t just a discussion; it’s a pivotal moment. We need to reframe agribusiness as a driver of growth and ensure that young people and women have the necessary resources, capital, and access to succeed,” Antwi asserted. He called for strong leadership and strategic investments to support youth and women-led agribusinesses by improving access to land, capital, and technology. He emphasized that innovations in food production, processing, and trade could significantly enhance the economy and create lasting livelihoods.
Afua Ansre, Country Representative for UN Women Ghana, stressed the importance of involving young people in agribusiness, citing the potential of technology-driven solutions to transform the sector.
“We must change the narrative around agribusiness and ignite enthusiasm in our youth. Across Africa, young entrepreneurs are driving agritech innovations, from drone-assisted irrigation to AI-powered soil analysis and digital platforms. These breakthroughs are opening up new economic possibilities,” she said.
Africa Skills Hub, a prominent enterprise support organization, continues to champion the economic empowerment of youth and women through skills development, entrepreneurship training, and business incubation.
Its initiatives have impacted thousands of young entrepreneurs across Ghana, equipping them with the skills to build sustainable businesses and contribute to the nation’s growth.
With the upcoming digital platform, the government aims to bridge the information gap, encourage innovation, and place young entrepreneurs at the forefront of economic transformation.
