The 2024 National Emerging Leaders Economic Forum (NELEF) has concluded with a call on the government to abolish outdated taxes and introduce a new climate levy to stimulate sustainable economic growth.

The power-packed forum which brought together young leaders, policy analysts, students and industry stakeholders, focused on equipping emerging leaders with the requisite knowledge and push, to contribute to reshaping Ghana's economic future through innovation, sustainability, and youth empowerment.

In his keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of VODEC Africa, a non-governmental organization, (NGO) and one of the convenors of the forum, Daniel Asomani urged the government to reconsider taxes that have outlived their relevance, including the COVID-19 levy and emission taxes, which he argued were placing unnecessary burdens on the country's economy. 

He indicated that the climate levy would not only help tackle environmental issues but also create sustainable job opportunities for the nation’s youth, ensuring a more equitable economic landscape.

He highlighted the need for sustainable economic growth, urging emerging leaders to embrace innovation and sustainability. 

In addition, he entreated the aspiring Presidential and Parliamentary Candidates ahead of the national elections to adopt a transparent, accountable and good governance in the next government administration. 

He expressed worry about the state of the economy and charged the youth to contribute more to the decision-making processes to safeguard the future of the country. 

World-renowned Evangelist and Economist, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh blamed the struggles and economic challenges currently facing Ghana for inadequate visionary leaders asking for teamwork in order to alleviate the crisis. 

Dr. Lawrence Tetteh also criticized the youth for not being patriotic enough to turn the tables around and transform the country into a world leader. 

“Good leadership, and good governance that prioritize long-term goals instead of short-term goals can change the trajectory of an entire nation.

We must wake up from sleep” he said. 

He urged the emerging leaders to vote on values and not for monetary gains ahead of the December elections, cautioning leaders to foster inclusive governance and eschew acts of favouritism and nepotism while in office.

A business and policy analyst, Isaac Boamah, from the United States, advocated for more policy reforms to provide more employment opportunities, especially for the youth. 

Mr. Boamah stressed the importance of youth participation in national policy discussions and urged young Ghanaians to actively engage in the political process to shape a future that reflects their aspirations.

The Chief of Asaman in the Ashanti Region, Nana Barima Acheampong Sarpong in a speech called on the youth to challenge the status quo and work towards a governance system that serves the people by upholding justice, equality, and the rule of law. 

He urged them to rise above apathy and complacency, embracing a responsible attitude in order to make a mark in society. 

The event featured the Director of People of Transformation Consolidated Bank Ghana, Mrs Esi Mmirba Wilson, the CEO of Fedems Limited, Ing. Felix Astrim, Prof Felix Nikoi Hammond, Broadcast Journalist from Multimedia group, representatives from various political parties among others.