YEA donates 125 bags of maize to Bono schools in major food support effort
By: Ernest Afram
The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has donated 125 bags of maize to selected senior high schools and tertiary institutions in the Bono Region to support the school feeding program and address ongoing food shortages.
The gesture, led by YEA Chief Executive Officer Malik Basintale, forms part of the agency’s broader mission to promote food security and youth empowerment through agriculture. Beneficiary institutions include Wenchi Methodist Senior High, Sunyani SHS, Koase Senior Technical, Istiqaama SHS, Saint Francis Seminary, Nchiraa SHS, and the Sunyani Nursing and Midwifery Training College.
Speaking at a brief handing over ceremony in Wenchi, Mr. Basintale highlighted the significance of the donation, not just as a supply of food, but as a symbol of the potential of Ghanaian youth.
“I stand here today, not because I’m the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency, but because I’m a young man who believes in the vision and future of other young people in this country, Nananom, today we’ve come to donate maize, but I don’t see it as a mere donation. I see it as a testimony to the fact that young people, when given the needed opportunity and given the needed skill, could do more than any other person could do for our land.” He said.
He further noted that the maize being distributed was cultivated by the youth under the agency’s agricultural program at the Branam State Farm, demonstrating how practical training and empowerment can yield direct benefits for communities.
The donation coincides with the agency’s plan to expand agricultural projects in the region. These include large-scale cultivation of maize and beans, as well as the introduction of livestock farming, with the aim of strengthening food systems and creating sustainable employment for the youth.
The YEA team also inspected ongoing work at the Branam State Farm and warehouse facilities to assess progress and identify areas for improvement.
Heads of beneficiary schools expressed gratitude to the agency, noting that the donation came at a critical time when food stocks were running low. They believe the maize will go a long way to sustain feeding programs and help students stay focused on their studies.
Bono Regional Minister Joseph Addae Akwaboa described the initiative as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to student welfare. He praised President Mahama’s administration for prioritizing nutrition and education as key pillars for national development.
The YEA’s Regional Director, Mustapha Omar Copson, added that the agency is determined to fully utilize the Branam State Farm to support schools struggling with feeding challenges. He also hinted at plans to replicate the model in other regions.
The Omanhene of Wenchi, Nana Anye Amoanpong Tabrako III, lauded the initiative and called for further investment in agro-processing to add value to local produce. He proposed the establishment of a cashew processing factory in Wenchi to boost employment and economic growth. This donation marks another major step in the YEA’s strategy to use agriculture not only as a tool for economic empowerment but also as a means to strengthen essential services such as education.
