Top 10 Youth-Focused Nonprofit Organizations in Ghana

Ghana’s bright future lies in the hands of its youth, and these nonprofits are leading the charge by equipping young people with tools for education, environmental advocacy, and leadership. Whether you are a local volunteer or a donor seeking meaningful impact, here are 10 standout organizations making a difference today:

1. Youth Opportunity and Transformation in Africa (YOTA)

For over 20 years, YOTA has been championing inclusive youth empowerment across Africa by building skills, promoting entrepreneurship, driving civic engagement, and influencing policy. Known for programs like the Ghana Youth Barometer and Skills Hub, YOTA partners with local and international organizations to create long-term opportunities for young people.

2. Ghana Youth Environmental Movement (GYEM)

Founded in 2012, GYEM engages young activists in environmental advocacy, including campaigns against coal-fired power plants and the popular Power Shift summit on renewable energy and plastic pollution. They have also launched community projects, such as the Kyensu Kiosk, to provide clean water in Ga West.

3. Eco Warriors Movement

This youth-led NGO, launched in 2020, combats climate change through innovative programs: planting “Climate Smart Trees” in urban areas, forming school eco-clubs, and promoting environmental storytelling, including content in local and sign languages.

4. Street Library Ghana

Founded in 2011, this volunteer-driven outfit brings books to underserved youth via mobile vans, book boxes, and digital platforms. Their model makes reading engaging and accessible—even in rural communities without libraries.

5. Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO)

Since 2014, GAYO has driven climate activism through campaigns like zero-waste initiatives, menstrual health programs, and the first Youth Climate Council in Africa—empowering young climate leaders across Ghana.

6. Right for Education (R:Ed)

R:Ed shares educational resources across Africa using digital platforms. With followers in over 45 countries and a strong online presence, they deliver youth-relevant content that boosts access to knowledge.

7. Catholic Youth Organization Ghana (CYO Ghana)

A well-structured faith-based youth group with about 22,000 members, CYO Ghana builds leadership through spiritually anchored programs across age brackets, from “Infant Jesus” to “Christian Soldiers.”

8. Youth Advocates Ghana (YAG)

Highlighted among top youth NGOs in Ghana, YAG hones young leaders via educating on health, gender equity, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability—focusing on community-driven impact.

9. Eminent-Citizens Foundation (ECAF)

ECAF promotes youth leadership and civic engagement, delivering workshops in democratic values, economic empowerment, and resource management to help youth craft sustainable futures.

10. World Inspiring Network

A youth-and-women empowerment nonprofit dedicated to sustainable community development. Since 2016, they’ve supported young Ghanaians to lead local change.