A growing debate over youth development funding has emerged following concerns raised about the absence of financial allocation to the National Youth Authority (NYA) from the District Assemblies Common Fund for the 2026 fiscal year.
Speaking at Parliament House in Accra on Thursday, Old Tafo Member of Parliament, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, questioned the government’s commitment to empowering young people, describing the situation as a serious setback for youth-focused programmes.
He pointed to what he described as a troubling trend, noting that the NYA previously received GH¢76.4 million in 2017 but has reportedly been left without any allocation in 2026, despite an overall increase of 16.78 per cent in the Common Fund.
According to the MP, the development raises concerns about shifting national priorities, especially at a time when youth unemployment and skills development remain pressing issues.
Assafuah argued that sustained investment in youth programmes is essential for national growth, warning that a lack of funding could weaken efforts to provide opportunities for young people across the country.
He therefore called for a review of the funding decision, urging authorities to restore allocations to the NYA and ensure greater transparency and accountability in the distribution of public resources.
The issue has since sparked wider discussion among policymakers and stakeholders about how best to balance fiscal decisions with the long-term needs of Ghana’s youthful population.
