155,000 youth equipped with skills – Trade Minister

The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has revealed that its youth empowerment programmes have successfully trained over 155,000 young Ghanaians. Equipping them with practical skills to start their own businesses and contribute to the national economy.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, said the apprenticeship-to-entrepreneurship initiative is part of the government’s strategy to address youth unemployment while boosting entrepreneurship across the country. She highlighted that the programme not only provides technical skills but also fosters the mindset needed to run successful enterprises.

As part of the initiative, the ministry has distributed more than 6,000 start-up kits to participants, providing them with the essential tools and equipment to transform their training into operational businesses. According to Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare, these kits are crucial in bridging the gap between skill acquisition and actual enterprise development, enabling young entrepreneurs to hit the ground running.

The minister also disclosed that over GH¢19 million has been mobilised through partnerships with financial institutions to support youth-led ventures. These funds are designed to help start-ups expand, improve productivity, and create jobs, contributing to Ghana’s economic growth.

Highlighting inclusivity, Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare said the ministry’s women-focused trade programmes have trained more than 150 women-led businesses, while approximately 2,800 cross-border traders, including youth and persons with disabilities, have been sensitised on best trade practices, regulatory compliance, and market opportunities.

She emphasised that the programmes extend beyond training sessions, offering mentorship, practical business guidance, and continuous support, which are critical for converting skills and ideas into sustainable and profitable enterprises. “Our goal is to ensure that young people, women, and vulnerable groups are not left behind in Ghana’s economic transformation,” the minister noted.

According to Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare, the success of the initiative demonstrates that structured skills development, combined with access to start-up resources and financial support, can transform the economic prospects of young Ghanaians. She reiterated the ministry’s commitment to creating an environment where the youth can innovate, grow businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s industrial and trade development agenda.