By Samuel Yaokumah, GNA
Mamfe-Akuapem (E/R), May 8, GNA – The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Mr Sammy Awuku, has launched the Akuapem North Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Programme (ANSDEP) to create jobs for 120 unemployed youth.
The initiative, launched alongside the inauguration of a new office complex at the Presbyterian Church in Mamfe-Akuapem, targets youth across the municipality.
The programme is funded by the Office of the Member of Parliament, with support from Kabaka Foundation, KGL, Hubtel, OmniBSIC Bank and Blacksmith Africa.
Mr Awuku told the Ghana News Agency that youth unemployment remained a major concern, noting the programme fulfilled his campaign promise to support young people through skills development and entrepreneurship.
He said beneficiaries were selected from across the municipality without regard to political affiliation and would soon begin specialised training in aquaculture, bakery and catering, soap and detergent production, and agro-processing.
He added that the programme also included a scholarship scheme for brilliant but needy students.
Mr Awuku said his office, located near Mamfe Community Bank, was open to the public for engagement on development issues.
Dr Boahemaa Ntim, Managing Partner of Blacksmith Africa, said the programme adopted a holistic approach by combining skills training with entrepreneurship coaching.
She explained that participants would receive practical training and business support to help them establish sustainable ventures.
She said seed funding would be provided to support beneficiaries in setting up businesses and improving market access.
The launch attracted the Municipal Chief Executive, Mr John Kumordzi, former MCEs Barima Asiedu Larbi and Mr Denis Miracles Aboagye, and the Chief Executive Officer of MASLOC, Mr Obidumbie K. Asamoah.
Also present were Mamfehene Nana Ansah Sasraku III and the Gyasehene of Akuapem, Okofobuor Osim Kwatia II.
The traditional leaders commended the initiative and urged the youth to take advantage of the opportunity to improve their livelihoods.
They pledged continued support from traditional authorities for development efforts in the municipality.
GNA
Editing by D. I. Laary /Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporting by Samuel Yaokumah
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