By Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama says businesses under the new ‘Adwumawura’ Programme will be selected based on how easily they can grow, how long they can last, and how many jobs they can create for young people in Ghana.
Speaking at the official launch of the Adwumawura Programme on Monday, April 28, 2025, in Kumasi, President Mahama explained that the initiative is carefully designed to support young entrepreneurs who have good business ideas but lack the necessary funding and skills to succeed.
He said most young people have the passion to start businesses but are held back because they do not have access to capital, mentorship, or the right tools.
The Adwumawura Programme will provide comprehensive support, including funding, coaching, mentorship, technological assistance, equipment, and help in finding markets for products. President Mahama stated that successful applicants will be assigned experienced young entrepreneurs to guide them in growing their businesses.
In addition to funding and mentorship, beneficiaries will receive technological support and equipment to improve their productivity. They will also be assisted in accessing local and international markets and will benefit from 24/7 business advisory services throughout the year.
Applications for the programme will be made online, and a neutral body will assess and select businesses based on their potential to grow and create jobs. Mr. Mahama assured applicants that businesses not selected in the first round would have future opportunities, and even if an idea is not initially successful, applicants would receive advice on how to improve or revise it.
He emphasized that the Adwumawura Programme is fully funded and supported in the 2025 national budget, unlike previous initiatives that were launched with excitement but later failed due to lack of funding.
The programme aims to be inclusive, Ghanaian-led, and accessible to all, regardless of educational background. University graduates, technical school alumni, SHS leavers, and even those with little formal education can all benefit.
Importantly, at least 60% of the beneficiaries will be women, persons living with disabilities, unemployed and underemployed youth, school dropouts, youth from rural areas, conflict-affected regions, and individuals formerly engaged in illegal mining activities (galamsey).
President Mahama said the programme represents a major step towards reducing youth unemployment and helping Ghana’s young people build a prosperous future.
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