George Opare Addo, the Minister-Designate for Youth Development and Empowerment, has promised an inclusive leadership approach, welcoming people from all political parties and religions.
“My doors are open to everyone regardless of political party or religion,” he affirmed during his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee.
He stressed the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing Ghana’s challenges, particularly in the areas of illegal mining and youth empowerment.
Opare Addo, who is popularly known as Pablo, emphasized that poverty in mining communities directly contributes to the illegal mining crisis, known locally as “galamsey.”
He proposed alternative livelihood programs to reduce poverty and provide sustainable employment opportunities to the youth.
“We must eradicate poverty from the areas we find ourselves, and if we have been able to do that effectively, by giving them alternative livelihood, we may bring an end to illegal mining,” he explained.
His vision includes moving away from environmentally harmful mining practices and promoting sustainability.
The nominee for the Youth Development and Empowerment ministry also stressed the need for a mindset shift among young people involved in mining.
He plans to work closely with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to explore sustainable mining alternatives that can reduce the destructive impact of galamsey.
“We are going to work together with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to look at sustainable ways of mining,” Opare Addo said, echoing the vision of President John Dramani Mahama.
