Ghana's High Commissioner to the UK, Mrs. Sabah Zita Benson, has emphasised that the country must prioritise young people, the driving force behind the nation’s dynamism and promising future.

Speaking at a reception held on March 5 at the Chancery, Belgrave Square, London, under the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope” to commemorate Ghana's 69th Independence Anniversary, the High Commissioner highlighted the need for inclusive growth through investment in digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and value addition to benefit the youth.

“Prosperity, for us, means expanding opportunities for young people. It means investing in digital innovation and entrepreneurship, moving beyond raw commodity exports toward value addition and industrialisation, while also strengthening regional integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), whose Secretariat Ghana proudly hosts in Accra.”

She emphasised the importance of partnerships, particularly with the UK, to support Ghana's development goals, including quality education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

The High Commissioner also underscored Ghana's commitment to building resilience against climate change and amplifying Africa's voice in global decision-making.

“Excellencies, this brings me to the importance of partnerships. Distinguished Guests, the relationship between Ghana and the United Kingdom is deep, historic, and evolving. It spans trade, education, security cooperation, health, climate action, and strong people-to-people ties."

Mrs. Zita Benson also acknowledged the challenges posed by a changing global landscape, including economic shocks, climate vulnerability, and technological disruption.

However, she expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to confront these realities through bold reforms and innovative strategies designed to empower the nation’s youth and foster inclusive growth.

"Ghana’s story has always been one of resilience. Through challenges, we have chosen dialogue over division, reform over retreat, and optimism over despair. At 69, our independence remains a living project. Building prosperity requires discipline, innovation, and collaboration, while restoring hope requires leadership, accountability, and inclusion.”

“Let us rededicate ourselves to a future where prosperity is shared, where hope is tangible, and where partnership is purposeful for all,” Ghana’s High Commissioner concluded.

The diplomatic event was attended by High Commissioners and Ambassadors from various diplomatic missions, the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, the Secretary-General of the International Sugar Organization, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Dean of the African Group, as well as Chair of the African Union, Lord Boateng, in addition to prominent members of the Ghanaian community.