Ghana is intensifying efforts to boost youth involvement in peacebuilding and national development through the creation of its first National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS).
The initiative is being spearheaded by the National Youth Authority in partnership with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, with support from a multi-stakeholder Technical Working Group comprising both state and non-state actors.
According to officials, ongoing consultations across the country are aimed at ensuring the policy reflects the real experiences and concerns of young people. The process is gathering input from youth groups, civil society organisations, and local stakeholders on key peace and security issues affecting their communities.
So far, engagement sessions—supported by United Nations Population Fund and United Nations Development Programme—have been held in regions including Upper West, Upper East, Savannah, Northern, Greater Accra, Oti, Volta, Eastern, and North East.
Current consultations are taking place in Cape Coast and Takoradi, with upcoming sessions planned for Sefwi Wiawso and Kumasi, as part of efforts to ensure nationwide participation.
The initiative is funded under the ECOWAS Peace, Security and Governance Project, with backing from the European Union and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, and implemented by organisations such as GIZ, Expertise France, and FIAP.
In addition to regional consultations, expert discussions are being held to refine the policy and align it with both national priorities and international frameworks, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, which recognises young people as vital contributors to peacebuilding.
Once finalised, the National Action Plan is expected to guide youth-focused policies and programmes aimed at enhancing peace, security, and development across Ghana, with stakeholders optimistic that its inclusive approach will ensure meaningful impact.
Source: joynews
