Changemakers Pact launch unites leaders and youth for Ghana’s future

Ghana’s Changemakers Pact (CMP) launch brought together a diverse assembly of political leaders, traditional authorities, youth advocates, and civil society figures in a groundbreaking virtual event, aimed at setting a transformative path for the nation’s future. 

Held on Zoom, the launch opened with CMP Chairperson Dr. Frank Antwi urging for collective action to address Ghana’s socio-economic challenges. 

“The Changemakers Pact is a call to unite for Ghana’s progress, and a reminder that we’re strongest when we work together,” Dr. Antwi stated.

Mr. Richmond Anane-Simon, CMP’s convener, outlined the Pact’s objectives, including establishing clear performance benchmarks, strengthening accountability frameworks, and aligning political commitments to national priorities. 

“We envision a Ghana where collaboration isn’t just an ideal but a practiced reality,” Mr. Anane-Simon emphasised, detailing CMP’s commitment to holding leaders accountable through robust monitoring and evaluation systems.

The Chief of Akwamu Adumasa, Nana Ansah Kwao IV, was among the influential voices advocating for unity and integrity in governance. 

He encouraged youth to hold leaders accountable, saying, “It’s time for a governance system that prioritizes Ghana over party lines.” Mr. Kobina Ade-Coker, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, underscored the urgency of economic reform, noting, “H.E. John Dramani Mahama is committed to the Pact’s principles and to leading a governance reset for a sustainable future.”

Leaders of other political movements echoed similar sentiments. Mr. Charles Yomekpe of The New Force Movement shared his party’s plans for industrialization and sustainable energy, while Kofi Koranteng of the New Vision Movement spoke on the need for structural reforms, stressing his dedication to accountable leadership. 

Mr. Kofi Akpaloo of the Liberal Party of Ghana pledged to prioritize youth empowerment, announcing a $10 billion fund to support young entrepreneurs and reiterating his commitment to the Pact.

Youth leaders were also integral to the launch. Mr. Joseph Opoku-Agyemang, President of the Ghana STEM Network, highlighted AI and robotics as key to national progress and pledged his network’s support for CMP’s initiatives. Environmental advocate Akorfa Daniella called for a non-partisan approach to tackle issues such as illegal mining, or galamsey, which she described as “a devastating threat to our water bodies and environment.”

In an interactive question and answer session, participants engaged directly with leaders, sparking discussions on Ghana’s future, economy, education, and environmental sustainability. 

Dr. Antwi’s closing remarks left a strong impression, calling the CMP launch “the start of a journey toward real transformation.” Presidential candidates have until November 30 to sign the Pact, with CMP set to publish a list of those committed to its principles on December 1, ahead of the December 7 elections.

The launch concluded with Mr. Anane-Simon’s call for partnerships, urging civil society, international organizations, and academia to join CMP in implementing the Pact’s principles. “This is more than an agreement; it’s a shared vision for a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Ghana,” he remarked.