Accra: Mr Mohammed Saani Adams, Director of Youth Development and Empowerment at the Ministry of Youth Development, has called on young people to spearhead advocacy for responsible and sustainable natural resource management within their communities. He emphasized that the youth should lead initiatives to ensure resources are mined and utilized sustainably to support community development and future prosperity.

According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Adams made these remarks at the African Youth Conference on Natural Resources and Environmental Governance 2025. The event was organized by the Strategic Youth Network for Development (SYND) in partnership with the Media Platform on Environment and Climate Change and took place in Accra. The conference aimed to bring together youth stakeholders and policymakers under the theme: 'Transforming Africa's Natural Resource Governance through Youth-Led Solutions.'

Mr Adams highlighted the importance of involving young people in the decision-making and policy-making processes concerning their country's natural resource management. He stressed the need for education and sensitization on sustainable practices and policies to empower the youth with the knowledge necessary for making informed decisions.

Mr Peter Kanang Gwom, Commissioner of Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development of Plateau State, Nigeria, further urged African governments to increase investments in youth development and empowerment programs. He advocated for policies and programs that enable communities to manage their natural resources sustainably and innovatively, creating employment opportunities and enhancing livelihoods.

Mr Gwom also encouraged the youth to actively participate in climate and environmental leadership roles within their communities, emphasizing the importance of a unified African voice in addressing climate change and sustainable resource management.

Mr Chibeze Ezekiel, Executive Coordinator of SYND Ghana, underscored the necessity of supporting African youth in developing climate-resilient and sustainable environmental solutions. He stressed the creation of platforms to connect young entrepreneurs and innovators in the environment sector, empowering them to lead the continent's agenda.

By fostering an environment where youth can present their ideas and solutions, Mr Ezekiel advocated for a proactive approach where young people not only hold governments accountable but also showcase solutions and create employment opportunities in their communities.