Accra, Ghana – Ghana has taken a bold step toward strengthening youth participation in national development with the inauguration of the Ghana Youth Federation (GYF) at the National Youth Conference 2025.
Recognized under the National Youth Authority Act 2016 (Act 939), the Federation will serve as the umbrella body for all youth-led and youth-serving organizations nationwide. Its mission: to unify, mobilize, and empower young Ghanaians to play a greater role in policymaking and economic transformation.
Leadership With a Purpose
The government appointed Mr. Sherif Ghali—a well-known youth advocate and CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Young Entrepreneurs—as Interim President. Alongside him are representatives from the National Network of Youth Groups, NUGS, the Ghana Girl Guides Association, and the Ghana National Catholic Youth Council.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Ghali stressed that the Federation would not be “just another youth group.”
“This Federation will be a catalyst for change,” he said. “It will unify young people and provide them with a powerful platform to influence national policy and development.”
A Presidential Promise Delivered
Mr. Ghali expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for fulfilling his pledge to establish the Federation, calling the move a “historic milestone.” He urged Ghana’s youth, development agencies, and private sector players to rally behind the Federation to maximize its impact.
Next Steps
The interim leadership will focus on:
- Setting up district and regional federations
- Preparing for a national elective conference
- Enhancing youth participation in decision-making processes
- Driving inclusive growth through entrepreneurship and innovation
The Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment also pledged government support and called on donor agencies and development partners to invest in youth-driven initiatives through the Federation.
Why It Matters
The creation of the Ghana Youth Federation marks a new chapter in Ghana’s democratic journey, giving young people a collective voice and stronger influence on national policies.
As Mr. Ghali concluded:
“The Federation belongs to every Ghanaian youth. Together, we will transform today’s opportunities into tomorrow’s successes.”