The Ghana Youth Federation (GYF) has strongly criticised the exclusion of key youth-focused institutions from the 2026 District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) allocation formula, describing the decision as a serious policy misstep.

According to the Federation, the omission of the National Youth Authority (NYA) and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) contradicts Ghana’s legal and policy framework on youth development.

In a statement issued by its President, Sherif Ghali, the GYF stressed that the two institutions are backed by Acts of Parliament and play a central role in delivering employment, skills training, and empowerment opportunities for young people.

“These are not optional institutions. Their exclusion undermines both law and policy,” the statement emphasised.

The Federation expressed concern that despite a total DACF allocation of approximately GH¢8.7 billion, no dedicated funding has been earmarked for the NYA and YEA.

It described the development as a “fundamental policy failure,” particularly at a time when youth unemployment remains a pressing national challenge.

The GYF further linked the decision to broader socio-economic pressures, citing the overwhelming number of applications for recent security service recruitment as evidence of limited opportunities for young people.

It warned that neglecting youth-focused funding could worsen unemployment and increase social risks.

The Federation is therefore calling for an immediate review of the DACF formula to include ring-fenced allocations for the two agencies.

It also urged the Office of the President, Parliament, and relevant ministries to ensure that funding decisions are aligned with national youth development priorities.