Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has asserted that Ghana's rising youth unemployment could have been addressed more effectively if the government had continued or expanded the One District One Factory (1D1F) initiative.
The decision to discontinue the industrialisation programme, originally launched under the previous Akufo-Addo administration, has created a significant gap. This gap affects government efforts to support private sector expansion, create new jobs, and foster entrepreneurship, according to Mr. Afenyo-Markin.
Ghana's youth unemployment remains a critical economic challenge. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service frequently highlights the struggle young people face in securing employment. The 1D1F policy aimed to boost industrial development by encouraging private sector involvement through tax incentives and investment support, directly targeting job creation across the country.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin expressed disappointment with the current government's inability to prioritise effectively. He stated this in an interview on TV3 on Tuesday, May 12. He believes the government inherited an economy that was stabilising, along with significant public goodwill.
He argued that 1D1F was a crucial policy decision that should have been maintained. He emphasised that unemployment is currently Ghana's main problem. The Minority Leader highlighted that the government has not presented any clear alternative policy since stopping the 1D1F programme.
During a recent meeting between the Minority Caucus and the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), business leaders raised concerns over stalled projects. These projects were initially started under the 1D1F programme. The President of AGI reportedly mentioned a watermelon processing factory in Walewale that is 90% complete but now stalled. This stoppage is due to a lack of government support.
The Minority has consequently submitted a parliamentary question to the Minister for Trade. This question seeks clarification on the government's current policy for the private sector. It also asks what alternatives have been put in place after the cancellation of the 1D1F programme. The government's response will be closely watched by investors and the public.
The government's approach to industrial policy and job creation significantly impacts investor confidence and economic growth. Any perceived lack of clear direction could dampen future investment in the manufacturing sector. Continued youth unemployment could also lead to social and economic instability.