We're moving from temporary job opportunities towards a production-driven economy - Ato Forson

Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has urged traditional authorities to back the government's economic transformation plan, asserting that temporary jobs alone cannot resolve Ghana's youth unemployment issue. Dr Forson argued that schemes like the National Builders Corps and the Youth Employment Agency offer only temporary relief and work experience, rather than addressing structural joblessness.

He emphasized the need to shift towards a production-driven economy that creates lasting employment and boosts incomes. Acknowledging Ghana's population growth of about 16 million since 2001, the Minister noted that job creation hasn't kept up with the expanding workforce. While access to education has increased and more young people are trained, the economy hasn't produced enough jobs to absorb this growing labor force.

Dr Forson stressed that Ghana can't continue relying on an economy that exports raw materials with little processing while importing finished goods that could be made locally. He outlined a four-year New Economy program aimed at boosting domestic production, adding value to natural resources, and creating sustainable jobs. The Minister called for private sector-led job creation backed by government investment and a conducive environment.

He warned that ignoring youth unemployment could lead to social crises. Dr Forson assured traditional leaders of continued fiscal responsibility and warned them to keep the New Economy agenda a national priority. The National House of Chiefs praised the government's efforts but urged the Finance Minister to prioritize youth employment in the upcoming budget, requesting financial support for chiefs to address chieftaincy disputes and prevent conflicts from turning into security threats.