The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Birim Central, Solomon Kusi Brako, has launched a dual initiative aimed at promoting youth empowerment and tackling social vices in Akyem Oda.
As part of efforts to steer young people away from crime and other negative activities, the MCE presented startup support packages to 22 vocational graduates in the municipality.
The beneficiaries received industrial sewing machines, professional hair dryers, specialised toolkits and seed capital to help them establish their own businesses and become self-reliant.
Speaking during the presentation, Mr. Brako stressed the importance of empowering the youth with employable skills and resources to reduce unemployment and improve livelihoods.
He noted that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to discourage young people from engaging in social vices and criminal activities.
The MCE also announced plans by the Assembly, in collaboration with local security agencies, to intensify operations against drug peddlers and substance abuse within the municipality.
According to him, the growing abuse of drugs and excessive alcohol consumption among some youth poses a serious threat to national development and community safety.
Mr. Brako therefore appealed to residents to support security agencies with credible information to help combat the illegal drug trade in the area.
He disclosed that the empowerment programme was personally funded through 30 percent of his official salary, describing the initiative as his contribution toward youth development in the municipality.
The beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the MCE for the support and pledged to use the equipment and financial assistance to build sustainable livelihoods and improve their future prospects.
Source: Nyame Akoa Solo
