Volta Youth Forum champions entrepreneurship over traditional jobs for Ghana's future

The Volta Youth Entrepreneurs Forum has drawn praise for its role in shaping young minds toward business and innovation. Held recently, the event brought together leaders who stressed the need for youth to embrace entrepreneurship over traditional employment. Speakers included government officials, traditional rulers, and industry experts. Mrs Elsie Appau-Klu, Technical Advisor to the GRA Commissioner-General, highlighted the forum’s importance as a platform for training, mentorship, and business support. She announced new GRA measures to ease taxation, including digital systems for simpler compliance. Businesses outside Accra and Tema now qualify for tax holidays of up to five years, while those earning under GH¢500,000 annually—or owned by people under 35—receive exemptions or flexible terms.

John Dumelo, Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, urged young people in the Volta Region to explore opportunities in farming and self-employment. He noted that not all could secure formal jobs, making entrepreneurship vital for creating livelihoods and cutting reliance on imports. A stronger focus on local production, he argued, would boost Ghana’s economic independence. Mama Bobi III, Queen of Bake and Afetornyornufia of Ho-Bankoe, welcomed the initiative but expressed concern over low youth participation in developmental programmes. She observed that many prefer entertainment events and called for a shift in mindset toward business and innovation.

The forum underscored entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic growth, with tax incentives and training aimed at supporting young business owners. Officials and traditional leaders alike stressed the need for practical skills over conventional employment. The discussions signalled a push for policies that encourage youth-led enterprises across Ghana.