On the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day 2025, the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) has urged the country’s youth to step forward and lead the charge against corruption in Ghana.
In a statement issued to mark the day, the Executive Secretary of GACC, Mrs. Beauty Emefa Narteh, disclosed that corruption remains a major obstacle to national progress, siphoning off vital funds, undermining public institutions, deepening inequality, and robbing citizens, especially young people of opportunities they deserve.
“As we commemorate the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day, we join the global community in renewing our collective commitment to the fight against corruption, a struggle central to Ghana’s development, social justice, and democratic progress. Corruption continues to drain public resources, weaken institutions, increase inequality, and erode public trust.
“Every cedi lost is a missed opportunity for better schools, improved healthcare, stronger infrastructure, and decent jobs. Its impact is felt most by our youth, whose dreams are limited when the systems meant to serve them are compromised.”
Touching on this year’s global theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” she said the future of Ghana hinges on the principles of honesty and responsibility that today’s young generation embraces.
“This year’s theme, ‘Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,’ resonates deeply with GACC’s work. Over the years, we have continuously empowered young people with knowledge, values, and confidence to uphold integrity and accountability, because shaping Ghana’s future begins with nurturing the conscience of our youth today.”
She revealed that in 2024, through its Local Accountability Networks operating in 34 districts across 14 regions, GACC directly engaged around 50,000 young people in universities, senior high schools, youth associations, and community groups. An accompanying social media drive also sparked wider public discussion on vote-buying and the importance of clean elections.
She further disclosed that GACC will scale up its youth outreach dramatically in 2025, extending activities to 87 districts covering all 16 regions.
“Building upon this strong foundation, 2025 will see a significant expansion of our youth-focused campaign. This year, GACC is rolling out activities in 87 districts across all 16 regions of Ghana. Our engagements aim to educate young people about the effects of corruption, promote whistleblowing, and foster civic responsibility as citizens committed to transparency and accountability.
“Alongside the community outreach, a social media campaign will continue to amplify youth voices and spread anti-corruption messages across digital platforms. These expanded efforts are made possible through funding from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and the GIZ EU-funded PAIReD Programme.”
GACC Executive Secretary called on parents, educators, faith leaders, journalists, and traditional authorities to rally behind young people who choose to defend transparency and accountability. She reminded Ghana’s youth never to stay quiet when they see wrongdoing and to live by the simple but powerful principle: “Resist, Reject, and Report” corruption.
“At GACC, we believe empowering the youth is not merely education; it is a strategic investment in our nation’s future. When young people understand corruption and are equipped to challenge it, they become powerful agents of change.
“We therefore call on parents, teachers, religious leaders, the media, public institutions, civil society, and community leaders to continue supporting our youth as they stand up for integrity and justice. And to the youth of Ghana, our message is clear: Do not be silent in the face of wrongdoing. Commit to the 3Rs of fighting corruption: Resist, Reject, and Report.”
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
