Accra: Dr David Wilfred Ochan, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Representative in Ghana, has urged policymakers to involve young people, particularly women and girls, in decision-making to shape their futures and contribute to national development. He emphasized that youth should be seen not merely as beneficiaries but as partners and agents of change, whose perspectives are crucial in addressing societal challenges. "Let us listen to young people and, most importantly, let us make room for them at the decision-making table," Dr Ochan stated.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Ochan delivered these remarks at the inaugural Image of a Woman Conference 2026 in Accra, organized by the Purim African Youth Development Platform (PAYDP) and Glorious Abundant Ministries International. The conference, themed "Empowered to Influence, Equipped to Lead, Created to Impact," gathered approximately 200 stakeholders to discuss women's leadership, empowerment, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and social transformation.
Dr Ochan highlighted that investing in young people is not charity but an investment in the future of the nation. With appropriate opportunities, skills, and platforms, the youth can become catalysts for positive change in their communities. He commended Reverend Aku Xornam Adzraku-Kevi, Executive Director of PAYDP, for her dedication to empowering vulnerable young people, particularly girls, through various initiatives such as skills training and reproductive health education.
He referenced the recent training of 25 young women in trades as "25 new possibilities" for them to earn decent incomes and inspire others. However, Dr Ochan cautioned that skills training alone is insufficient, emphasizing the need for access to markets, financing, mentorship, and sustainable economic opportunities. He called on various sectors to help create markets for products produced by young women, suggesting that supermarkets and large businesses connect with young entrepreneurs to create demand for their products.
Dr Ochan revealed that UNFPA, alongside PAYDP and other stakeholders, has supported the establishment of enterprise development centers to provide practical skills and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable young women. Additionally, UNFPA is partnering with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the Office of the Vice President to develop a national vulnerability framework for supporting vulnerable populations.
Prophet Prince Manasseh Atsu, Founder and General Overseer of Watered Garden Church, emphasized that leadership is defined by the ability to positively influence others and take responsibility, not by titles or positions. He underscored the importance of faith, wisdom, and love in leadership, encouraging participants to exercise positive influence regardless of circumstances or status.
Ms Abigail Nti Tenewaah, a Consultant at FORWARD UK, challenged participants to view leadership as a daily practice. She urged women and girls to see themselves as agents of change, emphasizing that effective leadership begins with self-leadership. She identified necessary leadership qualities such as courage, self-awareness, integrity, and collaboration and encouraged participants to make commitments to create change.
The conference, supported by partners including UNFPA, Forward UK, International Needs, PrimeCert, and Adehye? Mma, honored veteran media personality Madam Rosemary Ardayfio for her contributions to journalism and mentorship.