The Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) UK-Ireland Chapter, Alfred Freddy Kotogbor, has called on young people to remain actively engaged in Ghana's development and political processes as the world marks International Youth Day 2026.

This year's International Youth Day is being observed under the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”

In a statement, Mr Kotogbor said the theme reflected the shared aspirations of young people across different countries and social backgrounds, including access to opportunities, decent employment, quality education, inclusion, dignity and a meaningful voice in shaping the future.

He said young people in Ghana and the diaspora might live in different circumstances but shared a common desire to build a stronger and more prosperous country.

“Whether a young Ghanaian is in Accra, Kumasi, London, Dublin or anywhere else in the world, we may live in different contexts, but we share the aspiration of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Ghana,” he said.

Mahama's return to power

Mr Kotogbor said the theme also resonated with the political journey of President John Dramani Mahama and his return to the presidency following the 2024 general elections.

According to him, President Mahama's return to national leadership demonstrated what could be achieved when people were united around a common purpose and shared vision for progress.

He added that the President had consistently emphasised the importance of unlocking the potential of young people to secure Africa's future.

As Youth Organiser of the NDC UK-Ireland Chapter, Mr Kotogbor said he considered it a responsibility to help translate the aspirations of young people into opportunities for participation, leadership and development.

He urged young people to remain organised, engaged and determined to contribute to national development.

“Our voices matter, our ideas matter, and our participation is essential to the future of our party and our country,” he said.

Mr Kotogbor concluded his message with a call for unity among young people, saying: “Different Contexts. Common Aspirations. One Generation. One Ghana. One Future.”