Hundreds of Ghanaian youth employed under the Youth in Afforestation/Reforestation Project (YAP) are facing uncertainty following a directive from the Forestry Commission to disengage them from the program. The news, which surfaced through an official letter dated February 28, 2025, has sparked outrage among affected workers and the general public.
The letter, referencing communication from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), informed beneficiaries that they would be formally disengaged from the YAP effective March 31, 2025. The termination was based on the Forestry Commission citing Article 27 of the Collective Agreement for non-management staff. “You are, therefore, requested upon receipt of this letter to hand over all Forestry Commission’s property in your possession to the District Manager, who is to ensure your exit by March 31, 2025,” the letter read.
The move has been met with frustration and disappointment among affected workers, who argue that the program was a major source of employment for Ghanaian youth. Many took to social media to express their discontent, with some branding the decision as heartless. The phrase “Terminator One Strikes Again” quickly began trending, a reference to former President John Mahama’s history of mass dismissals during his previous tenure in office.
“We dedicated our time and energy to reforesting degraded lands across the country, and this is how they repay us? What happens to all the young people who depended on this job?” an aggrieved worker lamented.
Others called for immediate intervention from the government to either reinstate them or provide alternative opportunities.
In response to the backlash, the Forestry Commission assured affected workers that it was working closely with the Ministry of Finance to ensure that all outstanding allowances are paid. “Kindly note that Forestry Commission Management is working with our sector Ministry and the Ministry of Finance to settle all due outstanding beneficiary allowances in due course,” the statement added.
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