Ghana’s current President, H.E John Dramani Mahama, did not in any way aim to compromise the affairs of the youth in his pursuit of greater accomplishments with a smaller administration.
Instead, he carved out an entirely new ministry dedicated specifically to championing youth empowerment and development contrary to the usual amalgamation of Youth and Sports under one ministry.
To ensure the success of this novel ministry, which will be a herculean task requiring a build-from-scratch approach, His Excellency appointed a young, astute lawyer George Opare Addo as the Minister.
Opare Addo has been actively involved in youth management and organization for several years, making him a fitting choice for the role.
George brings a wealth of experience and humility to this position, having served as the immediate past National Youth Organizer of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), a Municipal Chief Executive under the late Professor John Evans Atta-Mills and President John Dramani Mahama, as well as a two-time parliamentary candidate for the NDC in the Okere Constituency of the Eastern Region.
It is undeniable that the new Minister assumes office well aware of the numerous challenges facing the country’s youth, particularly in the areas of employment and talent development for a better future.
This understanding was evident in his widely shared appreciation statement on January 16, where he described his appointment as a collective opportunity to reshape the narrative of Ghana’s youth:
“This is not just a personal milestone but a collective opportunity to rewrite the story of our nation’s youth. This story belongs to you, the young people of our nation, and we will write it together. Today is Day 1, and we don’t have the luxury of time.”
Like a hunter who is battle-ready and well aware of the demands of forest life especially in these challenging times for Ghana and the world at large, Minister George has pledged to implement an ambitious and transformative policy framework for youth development. He emphasized that his doors are open to all, regardless of political affiliation.
“My vision is clear: to deploy and implement the most aggressive and transformative policy framework for youth development in the history of our beloved country. Together, we will create decent jobs, empower millions, and lift young people out of poverty. No matter your political persuasion, creed, or background, my doors are open. No time for long bureaucracy.”
Further reinforcing his commitment to driving the President’s vision for Ghana’s youth, George Opare Addo stated:
“My mind dey for you! Let’s start that business, that initiative, that dream—and make it a Ghanaian success story. That is what the Mahama administration stands for: inclusive progress, bold action, and unparalleled ambition.”
Since his approval by Parliament’s Appointments Committee and Swearing-in by the President, the Minister for Youth Empowerment and Development, George Opare Addo, has begun work in earnest.
With great optimism from the nation’s youth and keen interest from political observers, all eyes are on him to see how he navigates this formidable task.
