Youth unemployment rising despite Mahama's 24-hour promise

A former Okaikwei North Member of Parliament Fuseini Issah has challenged the government to accelerate job creation, citing an increase in urban youth unemployment from 32% to about 34%.

He said the figures raises questions about claims that the country’s employment situation was improving, urging the government to fulfil its promises to young people.

Mr Issah was speaking on Accra-based Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily show on Thursday, October 22, where he assessed the government’s progress on youth employment initiatives.

“Urban youth employment has moved from 32 to about 34 per cent. So for him to tell us that the employment situation is getting better, I don't know what he's referring to,” he said.

The former MP questioned the progress of some employment initiatives announced by the government, particularly the proposed 1 Million Coders programme, which he said was not mentioned by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority during a discussion on youth employment.

He acknowledged references to programmes such as the National Apprenticeship Programme but maintained that the government needed to provide clearer updates on the implementation and impact of its commitments.

Mr Issah also criticised what he described as the government’s continued electioneering posture, arguing that it should focus on delivering measurable results as it approaches the presentation of its third budget.

He said the National Youth Authority should provide concrete figures on jobs created rather than merely highlight programmes and initiatives.

“I believe that government will have to be held to the promises they give to the people,” he said.

Mr Issah further urged the government to intensify its efforts to address youth unemployment and deliver on its promise of a 24-hour economy.