The Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) has marked this year’s African Union Anti-Corruption Day with a powerful appeal for greater youth involvement in Ghana’s fight against corruption.
The commemoration, held under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” highlighted the urgent need to empower young people to stand up for integrity and demand accountability from leaders.
In a statement to mark the day, Mrs. Beauty Emefa Narteh, Executive Secretary of GACC, described corruption as a major obstacle to Ghana’s development—particularly for the youth.
“Corruption continues to undermine progress, deepen inequality, and erode public trust in our institutions.
Sadly, it is our young people who suffer most—through poor education, limited job opportunities, and a loss of hope for the future,” she said.
She cited findings from the 2023 Auditor-General’s Report, which revealed that over GH¢11 billion was lost to financial irregularities—funds that could have improved education, healthcare, and job creation.
Youth as Agents of Change
While acknowledging the devastating effects of corruption, Mrs. Narteh emphasized that young people have the power to turn the tide.
“The youth are not just victims of corruption; they are powerful agents of change.
We must nurture and equip them to resist, reject, and report corruption wherever they encounter it,” she stressed.
As part of its 2025 efforts, GACC is expanding its youth-centered anti-corruption campaign with support from the Hewlett Foundation.
The campaign aims to reach 40 districts across all 16 regions, using schools, churches, community forums, and social media to promote civic responsibility and encourage whistleblowing.
This year’s initiative builds on the success of 2024, during which GACC empowered over 27,600 young people, including first-time voters in 33 districts, through its Local Accountability Networks (LANets).
These programs provided youth with the knowledge and confidence to resist vote buying and hold politicians accountable.
A Call to Action
Mrs. Narteh called on all segments of society—parents, teachers, religious leaders, public officials, media, and civil society—to support and protect young people who take a stand for transparency.
“It is our collective responsibility to equip and stand behind the youth in this fight,” she said.
She concluded with a direct message to young Ghanaians, urging them to embrace what she called the “3Rs”:
Resist corruption. Reject corruption. Report corruption.
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