Accra: The World Food Programme (WFP) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have launched an initiative aimed at empowering 15,000 young Ghanaians with digital skills and tools. This initiative seeks to build resilience in food systems and improve livelihoods across the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Youth Economic Empowerment through Digitalisation for Resilience in Food and Nutrition Security and Improved Livelihoods project is designed to enhance nutrition, develop a food security monitoring system, and support the digitisation of Ghana's School Feeding Programme. KOICA has contributed $9.3 million to this project, which is expected to be implemented over the next five years.
The project will be rolled out across 56 districts in six regions, including Upper West, Upper East, Northern, Savannah, and Greater Accra. It aims to utilize mobile technologies, precision farming systems, and digital platforms to foster the adoption of smart agricultural practices and promote healthy lifestyles.
Ms Aurore Rusiga, the WFP Country Director to Ghana, emphasized the importance of empowering Ghana's youth, who constitute about 38 percent of the population, for the country's socio-economic development. She highlighted that the project will focus on women, making up 60 percent of the target beneficiaries, while five percent will be persons with disability. 'Through this initiative, we aim to equip Ghana's youth with the digital skills and tools they need to enhance agricultural productivity, strengthen food systems, improve livelihoods, and secure sustainable employment opportunities,' Ms Rusiga stated.
Mr Park Kyongsig, the Korean Ambassador to Ghana, affirmed Korea's commitment to Ghana's sustainable development, noting the country's potential with its land and water resources to build food resilience. He assured continuous support from Korea for Ghana's developmental goals.
Mr Edmond Moukala, the Director of UNESCO at the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator, praised the WFP and KOICA for the project and stressed the importance of collective action and partnership in building food security. 'This is an inspiring and visionary project,' he remarked.
