Government institutions, civil society organisations, religious bodies, traditional authorities, and youth groups have renewed calls for stronger youth empowerment and sustained action against drug abuse during the Rise and Shine Summit 2026 held in Accra.
The summit, organised by the Voice Centre for Inclusive Communities on Saturday, was held under the theme: ‘From Hope to Action: A Call for a New Generation.’
The event also marked the launch of the youth empowerment booklet “Rise and Shine”: A Journey of Hope and Action authored by Ahmed M. Yaajalaal.
The programme was chaired by Shamima Muslim, Deputy Government spokesperson, while Olufemi Olonijolu, represnted the Acting High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as the Special Guest.
In his welcome address, Ahmed M. Yaajalaal described drug abuse as a silent threat that continues to undermine the dreams and futures of many young people in vulnerable communities.
“We cannot ignore this reality. We must face it with honesty, courage, and bold action,” he stated.
He noted that youth do not lose direction in a single moment, but gradually through poor choices, distractions, and limited guidance, slowly weakens purpose and ambition.
According to him, the Rise and Shine Initiative was created as a long term response to these challenges, aimed at equipping young people with discipline, leadership values, civic awareness, and practical skills for national development.
“This booklet is not written for admiration; it is written for engagement. It asks questions, confronts habits, and offers practical direction,” he added.
The Voice Centre for Inclusive Communities highlighted its long standing work in promoting youth inclusion in policy engagement and local governance, noting that many young participants have progressed into leadership roles across various sectors of society.
The Rise and Shine Initiative focuses on mindset transformation, leadership development, civic responsibility, mentorship, skills training, and community driven responses to substance abuse and social exclusion.
The book was forwarded and reviewed by Dr Charles Prempeh, who commended the initiative for its practical approach to youth development and behavioural transformation.
Among the institutions represented were the Ghana Education Service, Ghana Scholarship Secretariat, Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana Publishing Company Limited, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission, the Senior Correctional Centre (Postal), traditional authorities, teachers, parents, and youth organisations.
Participants emphasised the need for early intervention, stronger mentorship systems, quality education, and sustained community engagement to shape responsible and productive young citizens.
They renewed their commitment to support initiatives that strengthen youth empowerment, reduce vulnerability to drug abuse, and build a generation capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
BY MALIK SULLEMANA
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