George Opare Addo, Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment
Lawyer, business executive, and National organiser of the National Democratic Congress, George Opare Addo (NDC) has made history as Ghana’s first Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, a newly established ministry under the John Dramani Mahama-led government.
In his new role, he has pledged to spearhead a policy framework, as according to him, it is the most aggressive and transformative policy for youth development in Ghana’s history.
Opare Addo has stated that his vision is firmly rooted in reorienting the minds of the youth to actively contribute to national development.
“The Ghana we want requires the active participation of the youth, who constitute a majority of the Ghanaian population. Resetting Ghana means total re-engagement that is reorienting their minds, engaging them, and building for all of us the Ghana that we’ll be proud of,” he stated during his recent vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament.
He has also recognised the profound impact of youth unemployment on society, describing it as a root cause of violence and other societal challenges.
“Violence has no place in the Ghana I want. And so, as a minister, I am going to work effectively with the relevant agencies, the young people out there, by finding for them sustainable jobs”, he noted.
Opare Addo has also described his appointment as more than just a personal milestone, adding that it is a collective opportunity to redefine Ghana’s future.
In a statement shortly after he was nominated, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the president for entrusting him with such a transformative role, stating,
“This is not just a personal milestone, but a collective opportunity to rewrite the story of our nation’s youth. This story belongs to you, the young people of our nation, and we will write it together.”
The newly established ministry has been designed to implement forward-thinking policies aimed at addressing the challenges faced by Ghana’s youth.
Its mandate encompasses creating avenues for job opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, and developing skills that empower the next generation.
Here is a brief profile of George Opare Addo
His political journey began with his strong activism and remarkable organisational skills, which earned him the role of National Youth Organiser of the NDC in 2018.
Over the years, he emerged as a central figure within the party, mentoring numerous young men and women who now occupy key positions in the NDC.
His ability to inspire and mobilise youth at both the grassroots and national levels has cemented his reputation as a leader committed to youth empowerment.
Before assuming his role as National Youth Organiser, Opare Addo served as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Akuapem North Municipal Assembly from 2009 to 2017.
During his tenure, he demonstrated a strong commitment to community development, local governance, and public service, further solidifying his expertise in addressing the needs of diverse communities.
His business acumen and governance expertise are now poised to guide the Youth Empowerment Ministry’s efforts in addressing unemployment, skills development, and entrepreneurship among Ghana’s youth.
His time as National Youth Organiser further demonstrated his commitment to creating opportunities for young people, with mentorship and advocacy at the core of his work.
These efforts paved the way for many to rise through the ranks of the NDC, reflecting his belief in empowering others to lead and contribute meaningfully to society.
JKB/EB
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment