Nabdam district: In a significant move towards enhancing youth involvement in local governance and development, the National Youth Authority (NYA), together with the Nabdam District Assembly and supported by the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) project, inaugurated a Youth Parliament in Nabdam District. According to Ghana News Agency, the inauguration ceremony was marked by speeches and commitments to empower young people within the district. The Youth Parliament, established to be non-partisan, aims to offer a structured platform for the youth to express their views, concerns, and innovative ideas for the development of both the district and the nation. It also seeks to build their leadership capacities to effectively advocate for their rights and interests. Mr Francis Takyi Koranteng, the Upper East Regional Director of the NYA, during his address, highlighted the objective of the Youth Parliament, which is to engage the youth in meaningful discussions about local and national issues that affect their communities. This initiative is part of a broader national strategy, which originated over 15 years ago, to create formalized structures at various administrative levels for youth to voice their frustrations and discuss important developmental matters. Mr Peter Philosopher Atsina, the District Youth Director, emphasized the critical role of the Youth Parliament's members, who are expected to actively participate in debates and discussions, bringing forth ideas supported by facts and collaborating with peers and local leaders to tackle pressing youth concerns. Alhaji Amin Abdul-Rahman, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development, pointed out the significant role the SOCO project plays in youth development, as reflected in the inauguration of the youth parliament. He urged the youth to seize this opportunity to unite and drive development initiatives for the betterment of the district. Madam Elizabeth Ohenewah Agyei, the Coordinator of the SOCO project, shared her enthusiasm about the youth's involvement and encouraged them to debate on issues that would foster a resilient community and enhance development within the district. Her sentiments were echoed by Madam Agnes Anamoo, the District Chief Executive for Nabdam, who described the inauguration as historic and praised the SOCO project's sponsors for their support.