Akufo Addo Commends YEA For Addressing Unemployment

The President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has praised the management and board of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) for their significant efforts in addressing the country's unemployment issue.

Speaking at the YEA Beneficiaries Forum in the Ashanti Region, he highlighted ongoing plans to enhance the appeal and effectiveness of YEA's programs, particularly for the youth.

President Akufo-Addo assured that the government would support the security services to consider the beneficiaries' appeals.

He emphasized the importance of the upcoming elections, urging citizens to make the right decision and participate actively in the process.

"The future of Ghana resides in you and your votes", he stated, encouraging involvement in the elections and campaigns.

At the forum held at the Bantama Church of Pentecost in Kumasi, the Minister for Labour also commended YEA's leadership.

He noted the agency's unprecedented achievements with over 100,000 beneficiaries annually, leading to meaningful livelihoods for 400,000 to 500,000 individuals over four years.

The Minister pointed out that YEA has moved beyond traditional roles and now training individuals in various trades such as carpentry, masonry, welding and hairdressing.

He appealed to security agencies to use the talents of YEA beneficiaries efficiently.

Kofi Agyepong, CEO of YEA, emphasized the agency's commitment to its beneficiaries, ensuring timely payments and training to boost morale and appreciation.

He shared success stories of beneficiaries creating jobs for themselves and others, noting that 8,496 beneficiaries including Community Police, health workers, and Prison Service employees are in the Ashanti Region alone.

YEA supports 6,011 businesses in the Region, paying allowances to service employees.

Textile model beneficiaries receive 1,857 cedis each for 143 businesses including tailors and seamstresses while large garment companies benefit with over 92,000 cedis each.

Agyepong acknowledged obstacles with the sanitation model's payment structure but promised future improvements.

In conclusion, YEA's efforts to integrate beneficiaries into security services and other sectors highlight the agency's role in combating unemployment and fostering economic growth in Ghana.Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/