Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare-Addo, has debunked claims that the government’s new Adwumawura Programme is a cash giveaway scheme.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, the Minister clarified that the initiative is a structured youth employment programme designed to support sustainable businesses and empower young entrepreneurs.
“There is a misconception that we’re sharing money under the Adwumawura Programme. That is false,” he stated.
According to him, applicants must present viable business proposals, which will undergo thorough evaluation.
“If the idea is scalable or can employ others, and the applicant is fully Ghanaian, then they qualify,” he added.
Selection and Support Process
Opare-Addo explained that shortlisted applicants will be interviewed and connected to business hubs for registration, training, and further assistance. Existing businesses can also benefit through capacity-building support.
The Minister revealed that approximately 10,000 young people will be trained under the programme. From this group, the top 2,000 will have the opportunity to pitch their business proposals directly to the President.
In addition, a separate pitch event led by the Vice President will be held specifically for women-led businesses.
Adwumawura Fund for Venture Capital
To further strengthen support for high-potential ideas, the Minister announced plans to establish the Adwumawura Fund to provide venture capital financing through equity investments.
“Those individuals will pitch their proposals to the President. If the President likes the ideas, then we will move forward from there,” he said.
“We will also have a vice presidential pitch specifically for women. Additionally, we aim to create the Adwumawura Fund to support big ideas that require venture capital; this fund will hold equity. Our goal is to help build local businesses to a certain level, and we are hopeful that this initiative will transform the youth employment system.”
The Adwumawura Programme forms part of broader government efforts to reduce youth unemployment by promoting entrepreneurship and supporting innovative, youth-led enterprises.
Source: Farida Seidu| Adomonline
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