Youth and Women’s empowerment is a national security priority – President Mahama
By: Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah President John Dramani Mahama has called for greater economic empowerment of women and young people, describing their inclusion in development as an essential component of Africa’s peace and security strategy. He said unemployment, economic exclusion and limited access to opportunities could leave young people vulnerable to recruitment by extremist […]
President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized the importance of economic empowerment for women and young people as a crucial aspect of Africa's peace and security strategy. In a speech at the 2026 Tana State of Peace and Security in Africa Report presentation in Ethiopia, Mahama highlighted how unemployment, economic exclusion, and limited opportunities can leave young individuals susceptible to recruitment by extremist groups and armed networks.
Mahama stressed that empowerment should not be viewed as mere charity or a symbolic gesture. He pointed out that women, despite their significant contribution to agricultural production, face barriers in accessing and owning land, which hinders inclusive development and the establishment of lasting peace.
The President underscored that security strategies must address the social and economic conditions that attract young people to armed groups. Mahama argued that governments cannot achieve sustainable peace without creating economic opportunities, enhancing social inclusion, and ensuring that women and young people genuinely benefit from national development.
Mahama advocated for a people-centered approach to security that takes into account the concerns and livelihoods of communities most at risk of violence.
Written by urgent.news from GBC Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
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