New graduates and unemployed youth can now look to better days ahead as government plans to launch a US$100 million National Employment and Implementation Plan, a capacity building programme to equip people with entrepreneurial skills.

"Government will launch a National Employment and Implementation Plan, a capacity building programme of about US$100 million that will equip the youth in various fields to acquire entrepreneurial skills," said Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, Minister of Business Development.

Mr. Awal disclosed this in Accra in an interaction with members of the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) to deliberate on strategies to drive businesses in the country.

The initiative is to help in capacity building, which the minister noted, forms an important part towards stimulating entrepreneurship and job creation, adding that: "We also believe this will curb unemployment and make Ghana number one business destination in the sub-region."

Mr. Awal further revealed that 70 percent of all public funded projects would go to locally owned businesses, out of which 10 percent will also be directed to start-ups. He also reiterated government’s commitment to provide tax relieves for start-ups.

The meeting involved about 20 members of the UKGCC, from the telecoms, energy, logistics, finance, legal and business associations. It also created a platform to share their concerns and challenges with the minister.

Among other things, it also afforded Mr. Awal the opportunity to clarify issues concerning local and foreign businesses, and ways to improve the economy.

The Chief Executive Officer of the UKGCC, Mr. Tony Burkson, congratulated government for its work on improving the business environment.

Mr. Burkson, also appealed to government to implement an internal policy that would protect local businesses and prevent multinationals from pervading the atmosphere.

He added that his outfit is willing to partner the government in areas of mutual benefit, particularly in the area of Tax and Commercial Law, adding: "We have a Tax and Commercial Law" committee to help hold government and office bearers accountable."

Established in 2016, the UK - Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) was launched to facilitate and promote the ever-increasing need for collaboration between SME's and large multi-national corporations operating in the UK and Ghana.

The UKGCC also facilitates and promotes trade and commercial relations between the UK and Ghana, and provides exceptional support for its members through the sharing of knowledge and ideas, whilst hosting various activities designed to build stronger networks that will connect business from the two countries and to create further opportunities.