‘Africa’s youth hold the key to ending corruption’ – Gifty Obeng

Gifty Obeng, Operations Manager of Good Governance Africa (GGA), has called on Africa’s youth to lead the fight against corruption by embracing ethical principles and uncompromised standards.

Speaking at the Youth in Anti-Corruption event in Kumasi on November 26, 2024, she emphasized the transformative potential of the continent’s youthful population in addressing systemic governance challenges.

“The bustling youthful population of Africa may be the true magic wand if they are conscientized to live ethical lives based on just principles and uncompromised standards,” said Gifty Obeng during the event at the Lancaster Hotel, Kumasi.

The event, themed “Nurturing the Next Generation of Ethical Business Leaders,” highlighted the critical role of young people in combating corruption and fostering transparent governance.

Gifty Obeng spotlighted the devastating effects of corruption on development and poverty alleviation. “In a world where scarcity and unequal distribution of wealth have pushed millions into poverty, billions of dollars are sadly lost to corruption,” she remarked, highlighting how the misuse of resources by leaders undermines efforts to ensure equitable development and basic dignities for citizens.

She drew attention to Africa’s struggle against corruption, citing Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, which consistently places African nations among the lowest performers. She expressed concern over Ghana’s stagnation in combating corruption, as evidenced by reports from the Auditor General and the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC).

“Year after year, Ghanaians wake up to reports of public funds being misappropriated by officials, often in collusion with private sector actors. These lost funds translate into lost opportunities for the poor and marginalized,” she lamented.

Focusing on solutions, Obeng stressed the importance of youth involvement in redefining the continent’s trajectory. She noted that the event aimed to inspire a movement led by young people who will challenge corruption and champion accountability.

“You are Africa’s future, and you hold the potential to turn things the right way by being principled and just. This platform could be the beginning of a movement to speak against corruption and its ills,” she concluded.

The event, a blend of dialogue and strategy sessions, left participants motivated to take actionable steps toward creating a corruption-free society. GGA’s initiative underscored the vital role of empowering young people as ethical leaders to drive Africa’s transformation.

BB