Renowned Ghanaian economist Kwame Pianim has urged young Ghanaians, especially young women and men, to remain in the country and contribute to Ghana’s economic development instead of migrating abroad in search of better opportunities.
Speaking at the Fidelity Bank Debt Capital Markets Conference 2026, Mr Pianim said Ghana must urgently create jobs, strengthen productive sectors and provide economic opportunities for its growing youth population.
Kwame Pianim Calls for More Jobs for Ghana’s Youth
According to Kwame Pianim, the country’s expanding youth population can either become a major driver of economic growth in Ghana or create serious social and economic challenges if adequate employment opportunities are not provided.
He encouraged young Ghanaians to stay and work in the country, adding value to local raw materials and helping to build a stronger domestic economy.
He warned that Ghana could face significant challenges in the coming years if young people continue to leave the country because of limited employment opportunities.
Pianim said the government and other stakeholders must create an environment where young people can find decent jobs, start businesses and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Ghana Must Prioritise Food Security
The economist also identified food security in Ghana as a major national priority.
He called for increased investment in agriculture, irrigation and other productive sectors to enable the country to produce enough food for its population.
Kwame Pianim urged regulators, including the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA), to adopt policies that support economic growth, job creation and productive investment.
He argued that pension funds and other financial resources should play a greater role in supporting sectors capable of generating employment and expanding Ghana’s productive capacity.
Youth Unemployment Could Create Economic Challenges
Mr Pianim warned that failure to provide jobs for Ghana’s growing youth population could have serious economic and social consequences.
He said young people who are given meaningful employment can become powerful contributors to national development, while those left without opportunities could become vulnerable to crime and other forms of social instability.
The economist therefore called for stronger policies to tackle youth unemployment in Ghana, promote entrepreneurship and expand opportunities across productive sectors of the economy.
Kwame Pianim Warns About Galamsey and Water Resources
Kwame Pianim also raised concerns about the continued destruction of Ghana’s natural resources through illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
He warned that the pollution of rivers and other water bodies could create a serious water security crisis in Ghana and threaten the country’s long-term economic prospects.
According to him, water scarcity could become a major source of conflict globally, making the protection of Ghana’s water resources increasingly important.
He called for intensified efforts to tackle illegal mining and restore polluted water bodies, stressing that Ghana cannot afford to destroy its own natural resources.
Ghana Must Protect Its Natural Resources
Pianim emphasised that Ghana needs to pursue economic growth while protecting its environment and natural resources.
He said addressing galamsey, water pollution, youth unemployment, food security and economic development should remain key priorities for the country.
The economist urged young Ghanaians to see opportunities within the country and participate in building a productive and economically resilient Ghana rather than leaving to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Source: newsthemegh.com