The Executive Secretary of the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), Mrs Emefa Beauty Nartey, has called on Ghanaians to unite against corruption, stressing the vital role young people must play in building a transparent and accountable nation.

She delivered the message on Monday, December 8, to mark the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day.

Mrs Nartey noted that corruption continues to weaken institutions, derail development, and diminish public trust, harmful effects felt most deeply by the youth.

“Every cedi lost to corruption is a missed opportunity for better schools, improved healthcare, stronger infrastructure, and decent jobs. The dreams of our youth are constrained when systems meant to serve them are compromised,” she said.

This year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” underscores GACC’s sustained commitment to equipping young people as champions of accountability.

According to Mrs Nartey, GACC has invested heavily in developing the knowledge, values, and confidence young people need to challenge corrupt practices. In 2024, the organisation used its Local Accountability Networks (LANets) to implement youth-focused anti-corruption activities in 34 districts across 14 regions, reaching an estimated 50,000 young people.

These engagements targeted tertiary institutions, senior high schools, faith-based organisations, youth groups, and community networks. A complementary social media campaign amplified conversations on electoral integrity, vote-buying, and other election-related corruption issues.

Building on that momentum, GACC has announced an expanded campaign for 2025, covering 87 districts across all 16 regions. The initiative aims to educate young people on the effects of corruption, encourage whistleblowing, and nurture civic responsibility. A parallel social media drive will further amplify youth voices and spread anti-corruption messages nationwide. The efforts are supported by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and the GIZ EU-funded PAIReD Programme.

Mrs Nartey stressed that empowering young people is not just educational, it is a strategic investment in Ghana’s future.

“When young people understand corruption and are equipped to challenge it, they become powerful agents of change,” she said, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders, media practitioners, public institutions, civil society organisations, and community leaders to support the youth in upholding integrity.

To Ghana’s young people, she urged: “Do not be silent in the face of wrongdoing. Commit to the 3Rs of fighting corruption: Resist, Reject, and Report. You are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also the defenders of integrity today.”

She reaffirmed GACC’s commitment to building a nation anchored in transparency, accountability, and justice.