President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghana’s youth to step up and play an active role in shaping the nation’s future, urging them to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development efforts to build a self-sufficient economy.

Speaking at Ghana’s Independence Day event on March 6 2025, Mr Mahama stressed that young people have a responsibility to break the cycle of economic dependence and drive the country towards lasting prosperity.

“Ghana’s destiny is in your hands. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow—you must step up today. The choices we make now will determine the future of this country,” he said.

The President noted that true independence is not just political but economic, adding that young people must take advantage of government initiatives aimed at creating jobs and strengthening local industries.

He cited the AgriNext Programme, which is set to equip 30,000 young Ghanaians with land, training, and agribusiness opportunities, as well as the Farmer Service Centres in every district, which will provide access to modern farming tools, quality seeds, and fertilisers.

Mr Mahama also stressed the importance of entrepreneurship and industrialisation, saying his administration is committed to supporting youth-led businesses and local manufacturing to reduce Ghana’s dependence on imports.

“Each generation has a responsibility to leave the country better than they found it. We cannot keep missing opportunities while expecting a different result,” he said.

The President cautioned that Ghana’s future would be bleak if young people remained passive observers rather than active participants in policymaking and governance.

“We cannot afford to disappoint future generations. It is time for action, not rhetoric. Let us build an economy that works for all, not just a few,” he added.

He encouraged young people to embrace hard work, patriotism, and discipline, assuring them that his administration would continue to provide the necessary support to secure a prosperous future for all Ghanaians.