The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare Addo, has officially inaugurated the Grant Management Committee for the Adwumawura Programme, marking a key milestone in the rollout of the initiative.
The inauguration represents a significant step in ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in the management of public funds entrusted to the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) under the Adwumawura Programme.
The committee is made up of representatives from industry, academia, financial institutions, development partners, and relevant government agencies. Its membership includes:
- University of Ghana Business School Innovation Center
- Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment
- Ministry of Finance
- ABSA Bank
- Venture Capital Trust Fund
- British Council
- Private Sector (CEO of Akosombo Catering)
- National Youth Authority
- National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP)
- Ghana Youth Federation
- Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC)
Speaking at the inauguration, Hon. George Opare Addo reaffirmed government’s strong commitment to youth empowerment, job creation, and sustainable entrepreneurship. He stressed that the Adwumawura Programme goes beyond financial support, noting that its ultimate goal is to build resilient and competitive businesses capable of driving inclusive national development. He charged committee members to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness, and diligence in the execution of their mandate.
The Chief Executive Officer of NEIP, Mr. Eric Adjei, underscored the importance of inclusiveness, equity, impact, and innovation in the committee’s work. He urged members to be deliberate and objective in the selection of at least 2,000 viable businesses to benefit from the programme.
On his part, the Board Chairman of NEIP assured the committee of the Board’s full support and encouraged members to carry out their responsibilities dispassionately, transparently, and in a non-partisan manner to build public trust and confidence in the selection process.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Prof. George Acheampong of the University of Ghana Business School expressed gratitude to the Minister and NEIP for the confidence reposed in them. He assured stakeholders of the committee’s readiness and commitment to discharge its mandate diligently, fairly, transparently, and with the highest level of integrity.
The Adwumawura Programme is expected to play a critical role in supporting youth-led enterprises and strengthening Ghana’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Story by Doe Benjamin Kofi Lawson