The Chief of Wamanafuo-Sabikrom in the Dormaa East District of the Bono Region, Nana Sabi Ababio, has appealed to former President John Mahama to prioritize youth employment if he is elected president in the upcoming December 7 general elections.
Addressing a gathering at Wamanafuo Ahyiayem on Tuesday, September 10, the chief emphasized that employment should not be dependent on educational certificates. He noted that just as certificates are not demanded for votes, they should not be a barrier to accessing jobs.
Nana Sabi Ababio expressed that the youth of Wamanafuo are in urgent need of job opportunities, and as they show their support for Mahama, they expect him to provide them with employment when he assumes office.
He urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer to respond to their concerns and help the youth secure jobs to sustain their families, without unnecessary hurdles.
He mentioned that the youth had been engaged in chainsaw operations within the forest, but the concession has now been sold to a native of Techiman, who cuts down the timber without providing any royalties to the community, leaving the youth frustrated.
He stated that the local chiefs believe that instead of selling the concessions to outsiders from places like Tamale, Techiman, or Takoradi, a timber processing firm should be established in the area. This he said would allow the community to benefit from the forest resources and prevent the youth from becoming chainsaw operators, which contributes to forest destruction adding that this move would support the 24-hour economy policy.