Low Youth Representation in Governance Worries RISE-Ghana.

Bolgatanga: The low representation of youth in governance and decision-making structures in Ghana is a concerning issue, as expressed by the Rural Initiatives for Self-Empowerment Ghana (RISE-Ghana), a Non-Governmental Organisation. Speaking at a forum in Bolgatanga, Ms Jaw-haratu Amadu, Head of Programmes at RISE-Ghana, emphasized the need for urgent attention to reverse this trend and address the challenges faced by young people for sustainable development.According to Ghana News Agency, Ms Amadu highlighted that although 38 percent of Ghana's population consists of youth, their representation in governance and decision-making structures remains minimal. She pointed out the limited numbers of youth and women in district assembly structures, with some areas lacking any youth participation, whether appointed or elected.The forum, funded by Norsaac as part of the Heard Everywhere and Represented Daily (HEARD) project, aimed to amplify the voices and participation of rural vulnerable youth and women in Ghan a's governance. The project is active in the Bolgatanga Municipal and Kassena-Nankana West District in the Upper East Region, promoting the inclusion of these groups in decision-making processes.Attendees of the forum included youth and women groups, community-based organizations, civil society organizations, and persons with disabilities. The event provided a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration, enabling the youth to learn and grow. Participants were exposed to key policies and governance structures to empower them to seize opportunities in governance.Ms Amadu mentioned that the project had introduced the youth to the National Youth Policy, Right to Information Law, and the Local Governance Act. The initiative aims to ensure that young people are well-positioned to participate in governance, especially at the local level. Plans are underway for exposure visits to regional agencies, offering youth insights into existing opportunities.Ms Sandra Sore, Founder of The Napiness Netw ork, highlighted challenges faced by young people, such as unemployment and educational opportunities. She emphasized that the forum empowered young people to voice their challenges and seek redress. Ms Dorcas Zoogah, from the Young Urban Movement, expressed that the knowledge gained would enable her and others to confidently engage in governance.Mr Mark Akubire, Upper East Regional President of the Ghana Federation of Disability, stressed the importance of inclusive participation for sustainable development and equal opportunity. He urged the state to implement policies that ensure the involvement of youth and vulnerable groups in governance structures.