The Eastern Regional Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Richard Etornam Nyarko, has linked the rising number of premature deaths among the youth to the country’s economic downturn.
Nyarko highlighted that economic mismanagement has resulted in elevated unemployment rates, escalating costs of healthcare services and medications, and challenges affording nutritious meals. Some youth, facing economic hardships, have resorted to a practice termed “zero-one-zero,” wherein they eat only once a day.
He underscored the overwhelming economic pressure on the youth, emphasizing that many are succumbing to these challenges.
Mr Nyarko voiced his concerns, noting, “Social media is filled daily with news of the deaths of young people. Economic pressure is causing the demise of the youth. Unemployment is rampant, and some can’t afford even one square meal a day, resorting to Zero–one–zero. The youth struggle with rent payments, and inflation has driven medicine prices through the roof. Akufo Addo and Bawumia have destabilized the economy, leading to these avoidable deaths among the youth.”
These remarks came after Nyarko addressed NDC supporters following a Unity Walk in the Upper West Anymore constituency, as reported by Starr News.
Richard Nyarko, also known as Commander Bilibo, assured the youth that John Dramani Mahama’s proposed 24-hour economy policy would generate more job opportunities and foster economic prosperity.
He criticized the government for neglecting the $48-million Jute Factory at Adeiso, the largest in Africa, situated on a 12-acre land in the Upper West Akyem District, with a monthly capacity of 600,000 sacks and the potential to employ over 3000 workers.
Nyarko pledged that President John Mahama would ensure the completion and commissioning of the factory, saving millions spent annually on importing sacks.
He urged voters to support the NDC parliamentary candidate, Emmanuel Drah, to help the party regain the seat from the NPP.
Shirley Naana Ampem, the Eastern Regional Women’s Organizer, urged women in the country to take a keen interest in the upcoming elections to address issues such as corruption, hardship, and skyrocketing food prices that disproportionately affect them.