My government wants to invest in your future – Mahama tells youth

President John Dramani Mahama launched the ‘Adwumawura Programme on April 28, at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi.

‘Adwumawura’ is an Akan word which mean “Job owner”.

The flagship initiative, part of President Mahama’s plan to reset Ghana, is dedicated to cultivating and growing 10,000 young entrepreneurs annually. It complements his broader 24-hour economy plan and follows the launch of the One Million Coders Programme two weeks ago.

“I want to assure you that my government will continue to walk with you. My government wants to invest in your future. I give you every reason to be proud of your homeland Ghana,” he assured during the launch.

“Through a nationwide selection process, we will incubate new businesses and accelerate existing ones,” said President Mahama.

“Those who can apply are not only those who want to establish new businesses but if you have an ongoing business and you can benefit from the Adwumawura Programme, you are also free to apply.”

Although the programme does not have specific educational requirements, applicants must be fully Ghanaian to be considered for selection.

In line with the government’s inclusivity and equity agenda, sixty percent of beneficiaries will include women and girls, persons with disabilities, unemployed and underemployed youth, out-of-school youth, youth in conflict-affected areas, youth from rural and mining communities, and other marginalised communities.

Selected candidates will benefit from business development training, access to funding, coaching and mentorship, technological support, access to equipment and machinery, market access and facilitation, and 367 days of comprehensive business advisory services.

The president assured that the programme is fully funded under the 2025 budget. However, he also called on international partners to support the programme through NEIP with resources, expertise, and logistics to maximize its potential.

For marketing opportunities, there will be an annual Adwumawura Trade Fair and Exhibition to showcase the creativity, innovation, products, and services of beneficiaries.

“Let your dreams take flight. Let your innovations find expression. The future is not something we wait upon. It is something we build together and it starts from today,” President Mahama said, encouraging the youth to seize the opportunity.

Mr. George Opare Addo, Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, emphasized that the establishment of the ministry signifies the government’s commitment to ensuring youth development programmes come to fruition.

“It is worth emphasizing that our current government is the first in Ghana’s history to establish a ministry that solely focuses on youth development and empowerment,” he said.

“These initiatives reflect our collective resolve to shape the narrative and create pathways for youth empowerment and also create opportunities for the young people of this country.”

He urged the youth to seize these opportunities and actively participate in reshaping their future and that of generations to come.

“This is the dawn of a new era, the beginning of the reset agenda… this is your moment. The Adwumawura Programme is crafted with your success in mind. Embrace it and let us together forge a nation of successful innovators and successful entrepreneurs.”

In his welcome address, Otumfuor Bemkumehene Nana Okyere Kusi Ntrama, paramount chief of Essumeja, said the Adwumawura flagship initiative is a promise made by President Mahama during his election campaign as part of his plan to reset Ghana.

“Mr. President, by keeping your promise and honoring such an initiative, we believe that Ghana is now on the right path to success… thank you very much, Mr. President, and continue to reset our country,” he said.

He also believes the programme will eradicate some of the social vices the youth indulge in.

“Youth will get jobs and revenues and sustained businesses. This is an opportunity for all the youth to embrace and make sure that the fair share of the nation, they also receive.”

Mark Gumah, a member of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) engineering team, led a presentation on how interested candidates can apply to the programme using the portal. All district assemblies, municipal assemblies, metropolitan assemblies, and YEA offices also have forms available to assist anyone who has challenges applying through the portal.

By Benedicta Afi Agbodzi

The post My government wants to invest in your future – Mahama tells youth first appeared on 3News.

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