UNDP Warns Youth Unemployment Threatens Ghana Stability

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has identified unresolved youth unemployment as Ghana's most significant threat to national stability. The agency warned that a growing number of jobless young people could destabilize the nation's economic achievements, peace, and security.

This warning comes as unemployment among the youth risks igniting social unrest, radicalization, and conflict. Mr. Niloy Banerjee, the UNDP Resident Representative in Ghana, emphasized that when young people are fully employed and engaged in productive activities, they are less likely to become agitated or resort to violence. The Ghana Statistical Service reported that while overall unemployment decreased from 13.7 per cent in the first three quarters of 2024 to 12.8 per cent in 2025, approximately 1.3 million individuals aged 15 to 24 remained without work, education, or training.

Mr. Banerjee highlighted that prioritizing youth employment is a national security issue. This is particularly critical as instability spreads across parts of West Africa and the Sahel region. He stated that Ghana's economic growth trajectory and development aspirations could be easily disrupted or jeopardized if peace and security deteriorate. Sustained peace is vital for protecting progress in entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and sound macroeconomic management, he observed.

The UNDP representative called for enhanced support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This is to encourage their expansion and create more job opportunities. He also advocated for policies that link community-level initiatives with national development strategies. Mr. Banerjee stressed the importance of institutional vigilance and autonomy, particularly for bodies like the central bank and electoral commissions. These institutions are crucial for maintaining economic stability during political transitions, he explained.

He proposed a combined approach involving law enforcement, community engagement, institutional strengthening, and youth empowerment. Mr. Banerjee believes that economic inclusion for young people is directly connected to maintaining peace and preventing instability. Empowering youth as a peace strategy, by engaging them in entrepreneurship and innovation, can significantly reduce the risk of unrest. The UNDP has already supported 12,000 participants in its youth programs in Ghana through training, mentorship, and enterprise support, surpassing a target of 6,000.