The Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA)’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Osafohene Dr. Afua Asabea Asare I, has noted the significant progress her organization has made through the Youth in Export” program to encourage youth involvement in the country’s export sector.
The country is diversifying beyond traditional exports like gold and cocoa at a crucial time, so the initiative to involve young people is timely.
According to Dr. Asare, the initiative aims to empower the next generation of exporters and provide young Ghanaians with hands-on experience and industry mentorship while also creating sustainable employment opportunities.
The Youth in Export program has changed the game for our nation. She added,
“The Youth in Export programme is a game-changer for our country. By investing in our youth, we are not only empowering them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed but also ensuring that Ghana’s export sector remains competitive on the global stage”
At a press briefing in Accra, Dr. Afua Asare made these remarks.
As indicated by her, the program offers a six-month serious mentorship led by trained exporters. So far, two groups of young participants have successfully completed the program.
“The first cohort, which focused on agribusiness, saw 20 young entrepreneurs launching their first exports, while the second cohort is expected to create more than 500 direct employment opportunities”, the CEO said.
Osafohene Dr. Asare also said that the upcoming third cohort will have participants from all parts of the country and all industries, and that it is expected to provide over 4,000 jobs for young Ghanaians.
Consolidated Bank Ghana And Stakeholders To Play A Major Role In The Growth Of The Export Sector
These efforts are part of a larger strategy to make young people important export industry players.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which gives Ghanaian businesses new markets and opportunities to expand across the continent, is also in line with the Youth in Export initiative.
“As Ghana positions itself as a key player in regional trade, GEPA’s focus on youth engagement is expected to be a vital pillar in achieving sustainable export growth”, the CEO ended.
Credit: Ghana’s Ministry of Information
