Ghanaian Minister Urges Youth to Engage in Politics and Development

Kampala  

Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, Ghana’s Minister of Employment and Labor Relations, has called on young people across Africa to actively participate in politics and contribute to the continent’s development. Pelpuo made the remarks during a visit to Uganda, where he met with youth leaders under the Afro Arab Youth Council.  

Youth Participation in Governance  
Minister Pelpuo emphasized the importance of youth involvement in decision-making processes, particularly in addressing critical issues such as unemployment and economic development. He noted that many African countries face significant challenges in creating job opportunities for their young populations, leading to frustration and, in some cases, migration in search of better prospects.  

Pelpuo urged African governments to prioritize youth empowerment and create an enabling environment for young people to thrive. He highlighted the need for policies that support entrepreneurship, skills development, and access to finance for youth-led initiatives.  

Afro Arab Youth Council’s Role  
Dr. Abbas Agaba Mugisha, Secretary-General of the Afro Arab Youth Council, praised President Yoweri Museveni and the Ugandan government for their efforts in empowering young people. He cited various programs and initiatives aimed at creating employment opportunities and fostering youth leadership in the country.  

Dr. Mugisha also announced plans for a continental youth conference scheduled for May, where young leaders from across Africa will convene to discuss strategies for driving development and addressing common challenges.  

A Call for Collective Action  
Both Minister Pelpuo and Dr. Mugisha emphasized the importance of collaboration among African nations to tackle issues such as unemployment, poverty, and inequality. They called on young people to take advantage of available opportunities and work together to build a brighter future for the continent.  

Conclusion  
As Africa continues to grapple with the challenges of youth unemployment and economic development, the call for greater youth participation in governance and decision-making processes has never been more urgent. The Afro Arab Youth Council’s upcoming conference promises to be a platform for young leaders to share ideas, forge partnerships, and drive meaningful change across the continent.