Accra, Dec. 10, GNA – The Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) has called on young people across the country to take active stand against corruption, describing them as crucial partners in safeguarding Ghana’s future.
It said the impact of corruption was felt most by the youth, whose opportunities were limited when public systems failed to serve them effectively.
A statement signed by Mrs Beauty Emefa Narteh, the Executive Secretary of GACC, said corruption continued to drain national resources, weakened public institutions, deepened inequality, and eroded citizens’ trust in governance.
This year’s International Anti-Corruption Day is on the theme:“Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”
“When young people understand corruption and are equipped to challenge it, they become powerful agents of change,” the statement said.
It said GACC’s work in 2024, an election year, reached about 50,000 young people across 34 districts in 14 regions.
Through its Local Accountability Networks (LANets), GACC engaged students, youth groups, faith-based organisations, and community associations on issues such as electoral integrity, vote-buying, and public accountability.
The statement said its engagements were supported by a nationwide social media campaign that broadened public conversations on corruption.
Building on those efforts, the GACC would expand its youth-focused activities in 2025 to 87 districts across all 16 regions.
“The campaign will focus on educating young people about the effects of corruption, encouraging whistleblowing, and strengthening civic responsibility,” it said.
“A complementary digital campaign would amplify youth voices nationwide. These interventions are supported by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and the GIZ EU-funded PAIReD Programme.”
The statement called on parents, teachers, religious leaders, civil society, the media, and public institutions to support young people as they embraced integrity, transparency, and accountability.
“To the youth of Ghana, our message is clear: Do not be silent in the face of wrongdoing.”
“Commit to the 3Rs – Resist, Reject, and Report corruption. You are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also the defenders of integrity today,” it said.
The statement expressed optimism that with collective effort, Ghana could build a society rooted in fairness, justice, and transparency.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe