WFF Ghana Youth Chapter: First National Assembly to advance youth-led agrifood systems transformation

The World Food Forum (WFF) Ghana Youth Chapter successfully hosted its first National Assembly in Accra, Ghana on 14 March 2025, bringing together the Chapter’s National Steering Committee and regional Focal Leads from all 16 regions of Ghana.

The National Assembly is a key component of the Chapter’s innovative communication strategy and localized approach. Through community-driven activities, it acts as a platform to strengthen youth engagement and promote collaboration across the agrifood sector in Ghana. At the same time the Assembly enables the National Steering Committee and the Regional Focal Leads to come together to assess local challenges, explore emerging opportunities and co-develop impactful youth-led initiatives. These efforts aim to bridge the gap between regional and national food security efforts.

Anthony Aidoo, the Chairman of the National Steering Committee, delivered the opening remarks, where he applauded the WFF Ghana Youth Chapter’s leadership and regional Focal Leads for their dedication to transforming agrifood systems in Ghana. He highlighted the critical role of sustained youth engagement. “We are laying a solid foundation at the regional level and the work you are doing is a testament to the power of youth-driven leadership in agriculture. However, we must do more. The success of our mission depends on consistent action, innovative thinking and unwavering commitment to our communities, agrifood systems and the agriculture sector as a whole”, Aidoo stated.

Philipa Mensah, the Director for Social Protection, highlighted the active role women play in addressing pressing challenges related to food security, climate change and agrifoods systems. She underscored the need to empower young women to take on leadership roles, emphasizing that true transformation in the sector can only be achieved through gender-inclusive approaches.

Alberta Nana Akyaa Akosa, National Director of the WFF Ghana Youth Chapter, officially opened the Assembly by announcing plans for the Chapter’s flagship event, The Ghana Food Dialogue, set for June 2025. She highlighted the Chapter’s upcoming engagements, including participation in the Ghana Poultry Day and a training workshop in the northern region for International Youth Day. Urging members to  maintain a results-oriented focus, she emphasized the importance of youth-led action in transforming Ghana’s agrifood systems stating, “Our mission is not just about ideas; it comes down to passion and purpose, taking action and delivering measurable results. With teamwork, innovation and commitment, we can drive meaningful change in our communities”.

Kwame Sekyere, Project Director of the WFF Ghana Chapter, called on all Regional Focal Leads to share their 2025 project calendars and timelines, enabling the National Steering Team to plan effectively and offer both technical and financial support. In response, the Focal Leads shared their strategies to raise awareness and boost the visibility of the Chapter through stronger partnerships with stakeholders, youth groups and government institutions. They also outlined key activities including roadshows, mentorship programmes and capacity-building sessions aimed at deepening engagement and advancing the Chapter’s mission across the regions.

In conclusion, the first National Assembly served as a vital platform for knowledge-sharing, networking and strategic planning. A total of 20 participants took part, including 16 Regional Focal Leads and all 4 Country Directors. The gathering reinforced the Chapter’s commitment to bridging gaps between regional and national efforts by equipping young leaders with the tools, resources and connections needed to drive meaningful transformation in Ghana’s agrifood systems.