KOICA and WFP Empower Ghanaian Youth Through Digital Innovations
On February 16, 2025, at the Labadi Beach Hotel, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Paul Siameh, launched an innovative project aimed at empowering Ghanaian youth through digital technology. Funded by KOICA, this initiative is designed to enhance digital and technological skills to stimulate economic growth in the country.
The project will be implemented in multiple regions, including Greater Accra, Northern, Savannah, North East, Upper East, and Upper West. Aurore Rusiga, the WFP Country Representative, announced that beneficiaries will receive training in essential digital skills and tools, such as mobile technologies, precision farming systems, and digital platforms. These resources aim to promote smart agricultural practices and foster healthier lifestyles.
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) stands as the largest humanitarian organization worldwide, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to promote peace, stability, and prosperity. Rusiga7 emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive response to hunger in rural areas, highlighting the importance of providing vulnerable farmers with cash, seeds, and fertilizers.
She noted that many youth are currently disengaged from productive activities and stressed the critical necessity of embracing digitalization, which has transitioned from a luxury to a necessity. The project will also incorporate technology for social and 7 change communication, introducing a digital loyalty platform that rewards users for adopting and maintaining healthy dietary and lifestyle choices.
The launch event was attended by the Korean Ambassador to Ghana, Park Kyongsig, who reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting development initiatives in Ghana and beyond. He called for collaboration among international partners, civil society, the private sector, and the government to mitigate famine risks.
Ambassador Park underscored that WFP, FAO, and UNICEF are mobilizing resources and preparing for a significant operational scale-up to address the crisis. He stated, “We can manage this crisis if we respond now; it is within our grasp to avert catastrophe in Ghana.”
This initiative represents a timely and crucial step toward equipping Ghanaian youth with the skills necessary for sustainable development and economic resilience.
By: Frank Owusu Obimpeh
