Introduction

In a nation where nearly one-third of young people between the ages of 15 and 25 are jobless, addressing youth unemployment has become more than an economic imperative—it is a national security issue. Kennedy Agyapong, a prominent figure in Ghana’s New Patriotic Party (NPP), has made tackling this crisis a cornerstone of his presidential campaign for the 2028 elections. Kwesi Nyantakyi, a key member of Agyapong’s campaign team, recently emphasized this focus during an appearance on the AM Show, describing unemployment as a “national security crisis” that demands urgent and comprehensive solutions.

This article explores the depth of Ghana’s youth unemployment challenge, Agyapong’s proposed strategies, and why his campaign stands out in a crowded political field. By integrating verifiable statistics, expert commentary, and policy analysis, we provide a comprehensive understanding of how Agyapong’s vision aims to transform the lives of millions of young Ghanaians.

Key Points

Background

The Scope of Ghana’s Youth Unemployment Crisis

Ghana, often hailed as a model of stability in West Africa, faces a growing challenge that threatens its social fabric and economic future. According to recent data from the Ghana Statistical Service and the World Bank, youth unemployment remains persistently high, particularly among secondary school and university graduates. The situation is exacerbated by a rapidly growing population, with over 70% of Ghanaians under the age of 35.

The implications of this crisis are far-reaching. Unemployed youth are more vulnerable to involvement in crime, substance abuse, and social unrest. Moreover, the brain drain caused by skilled graduates seeking opportunities abroad deprives the nation of much-needed human capital for development.

Historical Context of Job Creation Efforts

Previous Ghanaian governments have launched various initiatives to combat unemployment, including the National Youth Employment Program (NYEP) and the recently restructured Nation Builders Corps (NABCO). While these programs have provided temporary relief to some, critics argue that they lack sustainability and fail to address the root causes of joblessness, such as inadequate skills training, limited access to capital, and an unfriendly business environment.

Kennedy Agyapong, a businessman and long-serving Member of Parliament for Assin Central, brings a private-sector perspective to the issue. His campaign emphasizes entrepreneurship, industrialization, and public-private partnerships as key drivers of sustainable job creation.

Analysis

Why Youth Unemployment Is a National Security Issue

Kwesi Nyantakyi’s characterization of unemployment as a “national security crisis” is not hyperbolic. Research from institutions like the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) consistently shows that high youth unemployment correlates with increased crime rates, political instability, and social fragmentation.

In Ghana, cities like Accra and Kumasi have seen rising incidents of armed robbery, cybercrime, and gang-related violence—phenomena often linked to economic marginalization among young people. Without meaningful employment, many youths turn to informal or illicit activities to survive, undermining public safety and economic growth.

Agyapong’s Campaign Strategy and Policy Proposals

Agyapong’s campaign has centered its messaging on practical solutions to unemployment, appealing to a electorate frustrated with political rhetoric. Key elements of his approach include:

1. Industrialization Drive: Promoting the establishment of factories and agro-processing plants across all 16 regions to create jobs and reduce import dependency.
2. Support for SMEs: Easing access to credit and reducing bureaucratic hurdles for small and medium-sized enterprises, which are the largest employers in the informal sector.
3. Vocational Training Expansion: Revamping technical and vocational education to align skills with market demands, particularly in construction, technology, and manufacturing.
4. Agricultural Modernization: Investing in mechanized farming and value addition to make agriculture attractive and profitable for young people.
5. Diaspora Engagement: Leveraging the Ghanaian diaspora for investment and knowledge transfer to boost local industries.

Unlike previous job programs that focused on short-term employment, Agyapong’s vision emphasizes creating an enabling environment for long-term economic growth and self-employment.

Public Reception and Political Significance

Agyapong’s direct communication style and focus on accountability have earned him a significant following, particularly among younger voters active on social media. His frequent critiques of government inefficiency and corruption resonate with citizens demanding transparency and results.

Within the NPP, his emphasis on unemployment differentiates him from other aspirants who may prioritize fiscal consolidation or foreign policy. By framing job creation as both an economic and security imperative, Agyapong positions himself as a pragmatic leader capable of addressing Ghana’s most pressing domestic challenge.

Political analysts note that while Agyapong’s rhetoric is compelling, the success of his proposals will depend on effective implementation, fiscal planning, and stakeholder collaboration. Nonetheless, his campaign has succeeded in placing youth unemployment at the forefront of national discourse.

Practical Advice

For Young Ghanaians Seeking Employment

While awaiting policy changes, young people can take proactive steps to improve their employability:

• Skill Development: Enroll in certified vocational training programs in high-demand fields like welding, coding, or renewable energy installation.
• Entrepreneurship: Start small businesses using platforms like mobile money and e-commerce to reach customers.
• Networking: Join professional associations and online communities to access job leads and mentorship.
• Continuous Learning: Utilize free online courses from platforms like Coursera, edX, or Google Digital Skills to build digital literacy.

For Policymakers and Stakeholders

To effectively reduce youth unemployment, stakeholders should consider the following:

• Education Reform: Align curricula with industry needs to reduce the skills gap.
• Access to Finance: Establish youth-focused loan schemes with flexible terms and financial literacy training.
• Infrastructure Investment: Improve transportation, electricity, and internet connectivity to support business growth in rural areas.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with the private sector to create apprenticeship and internship programs.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement robust systems to track the impact of employment programs and adjust strategies accordingly.

For Investors and Business Leaders

The private sector plays a crucial role in job creation. Business leaders can contribute by:

• Investing in labor-intensive industries such as agro-processing, textiles, and construction.
• Partnering with technical schools to provide hands-on training and job placements.
• Adopting inclusive hiring practices that prioritize youth and graduates from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Supporting startup incubators and innovation hubs that nurture young entrepreneurs.

FAQ

Conclusion

Kennedy Agyapong’s focus on youth unemployment is not merely a campaign slogan—it reflects a deep understanding of one of Ghana’s most critical challenges. With over 70% of the population under 35, the nation cannot afford to ignore the economic and security implications of widespread joblessness. Kwesi Nyantakyi’s remarks underscore the urgency of the situation and position Agyapong as a leader willing to confront this crisis with concrete solutions.

While the road to full employment is complex and requires sustained effort across multiple sectors, Agyapong’s campaign has succeeded in elevating the conversation and offering a vision rooted in practicality and national interest. Whether his policies will be implemented on a national scale remains to be seen, but his emphasis on empowering young people through work represents a vital step toward a more stable and prosperous Ghana.

As voters prepare for the 2028 elections, the question of who can deliver meaningful jobs will likely be a decisive factor. Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign has made it clear: for him, youth employment is not just an economic issue—it is a matter of national survival.

Sources

• Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) – Labour Force Survey Reports
• World Bank – Ghana Economic Updates and Youth Employment Data
• United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) – Ghana Human Development Reports
• Institute for Security Studies (ISS) – Africa Conflict Prevention Programme
• Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, Ghana
• Interview: Kwesi Nyantakyi on AM Show, January 2026
• Life Pulse Daily – Breaking News, January 6, 2026
• Agyapong Campaign Policy Documents and Public Speeches, 2025–2026

Note: All information presented is based on publicly available data and statements from credible sources. This article does not contain unverified claims or speculation.