Sunyani: The Right Reverend Dr. Festus Yeboah-Asuamah, the Anglican Bishop of the Sunyani Diocese, has made an urgent appeal to the government to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment. He emphasized the need for immediate action to create job opportunities for young people, highlighting the growing trend of youth engaging in illegal and harmful activities as a means of survival.

According to Ghana News Agency, Rt Rev Dr. Yeboah-Asuamah expressed his concerns during the opening session of the Third Session and Fifth Synod of the Diocese held at St. Anselm's Cathedral in Sunyani. The event, themed 'From Maintenance to Mission: Navigating Change for a Vibrant Future,' provided a platform for the bishop to address the critical issue of youth unemployment, which he stated poses a threat to national security and hampers the holistic growth and development of the country's youth.

The bishop also condemned the ongoing issue of illegal mining, commonly known as 'galamsey,' which continues to devastate water bodies, farmland, and the environment. He urged the government and stakeholders, including the Christian community, to intensify efforts in combating this menace. Rt Rev Yeboah-Asuamah described illegal mining as an affront to Christianity and faith, quoting scripture to emphasize the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.

In addition to illegal mining, the Anglican Bishop addressed the pervasive issue of corruption, which he identified as a significant obstacle to national development. While acknowledging some progress in the fight against corruption, he called for stronger law enforcement and policy implementation to curb its destructive impacts.

Rt Rev Yeboah-Asuamah highlighted the importance of effective collaboration and concerted efforts in tackling social ills such as corruption and illegal mining. He underscored the role of the church as a key partner in development, emphasizing its contribution to addressing these challenges and facilitating accelerated national progress.