Ghana’s Minister Pledges Support for Afro-Arab Youth Council, Calls for Youth Empowerment and Population Control
Hon. Dr. Abdul Rashid Pelpuo, Ghana’s Minister for Labour, Job, and Employment, has commended the Afro-Arab Youth Council (AAYC) for its commitment to uniting and empowering young people across Africa and the Arab world. Speaking during a visit to the AAYC secretariat, the Minister praised the organization’s efforts to foster youth development and economic participation, pledging his support towards its initiatives.
“I am happy to associate with the Afro-Arab Youth Council and to work with you,” he said, emphasizing the importance of youth-focused policies in Africa. Drawing from his extensive background in youth leadership, the Minister highlighted the critical role of structured engagement in addressing unemployment and economic challenges among young people.
However, Dr. Pelpuo also issued a stark warning about Africa’s growing population, citing the sharp increase in countries like Uganda and Nigeria over the past decades. “We have to control our population. Uganda and Ghana had almost the same population in 1960, yet today Uganda has surged ahead to 45 million while Ghana stands at 33-34 million. Where have the extra millions come from?” he questioned.
The Minister’s remarks came during a high-level engagement with AAYC leaders, including Secretary-General Hon. Dr. Abbas Agaba, who reaffirmed the council’s mission to build peace, unity, and development through youth-driven initiatives.
Founded in 2004 under the leadership of Sudan’s then-President Omar al-Bashir, Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi, and Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, the AAYC continues to serve as a bridge connecting African and Arab youth. The council has long championed collaboration on economic opportunities, cultural exchanges, and peace-building efforts between the two regions.
A major highlight of the discussions was the council’s ambitious plan to construct its international headquarters on 50 acres of land in Nakauka, Uganda. The facility, which will feature an office block, a stadium, a university of science and technology, a cultural heritage center, and a hotel, is projected to cost between $150 million and $200 million. Former Ugandan Prime Minister, Right Hon. Dr. Rwakana Mbunda, has been tasked with leading fundraising efforts for the initiative.
Dr. Agaba underscored the significance of this project in strengthening Afro-Arab youth relations, stating, “We think these projects will give young people a platform to interact, study, and collaborate, ensuring a brighter future for both Africans and Arabs.”
As the AAYC continues to expand its impact, leaders remain committed to fostering investment partnerships and policy frameworks that position young people at the center of Africa and the Arab world's economic growth. Dr. Pelpuo’s endorsement signals a renewed drive towards collaborative efforts in youth empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development across the regions.
