Mahama Unveils $10 Billion New Economy Agenda To Create Youth Jobs And Curb Galamsey In Ghana

According to a report by GHOne TV on October 14, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to create employment opportunities for Ghanaian youth through a $10 billion New Economy Agenda aimed at addressing illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

The announcement highlights the government’s intention to tackle youth unemployment while addressing the environmental challenges associated with illegal mining activities across the country. The initiative is expected to form part of efforts to create alternative sources of livelihood for young people who may otherwise be attracted to illegal mining.

Galamsey has remained a major concern in Ghana because of its effects on water bodies, forest reserves and agricultural lands. The activities of illegal miners have raised concerns about environmental degradation, particularly the pollution of rivers that serve as sources of drinking water for communities.

Through the proposed New Economy Agenda, President Mahama has indicated that the government intends to create jobs that could provide young people with opportunities beyond illegal mining. The announcement places employment creation at the centre of efforts to address the persistent galamsey problem.

Youth unemployment has been a major issue in Ghana, with many young people seeking sustainable employment and opportunities to improve their living conditions. For some communities, illegal mining has become an alternative source of income, despite the environmental damage and legal consequences associated with the activity.

The government’s proposed approach suggests that providing alternative employment opportunities could complement efforts to combat illegal mining. If successfully implemented, the initiative could help young people access legitimate sources of income while reducing the economic pressures that may push some individuals towards environmentally destructive activities.

However, the effectiveness of the proposed agenda will depend on how the government implements its plans, the sectors in which jobs will be created and the opportunities that will become available to young people across the country.

The reported $10 billion investment also raises expectations about the scale of the programme and its potential impact on Ghana’s economy. Further details would be needed to establish the specific projects involved, the funding arrangements and the timeline for implementation.

President Mahama’s announcement comes amid continuing discussions about how Ghana can protect its natural resources while creating sustainable employment opportunities for its growing youth population.

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