GHANCYC intensifies preparations as fundraising drive begins for West Africa Youth Days in Accra

The Ghana National Catholic Youth Council has stepped up preparations toward the much-anticipated West Africa World Youth Days – ACCRA 2026 scheduled from 7th – 11th September 2026 in the Ghana, with the launch of a nationwide fundraising initiative aimed at mobilising support from the faithful.

The campaign, themed “Wave A Palm, Drop A 10,” encourages Catholics to contribute at least GHS 10 towards the successful hosting of the regional youth gathering.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Local Planning Committee and the Ghana National Catholic Youth Council (GHANCYC) to ensure that Ghana hosts a spiritually enriching and well-organised event. The West Africa Youth Days, under the auspices of the Regional Episcopal Conference of West Africa, is expected to bring together thousands of young Catholics from across West Africa for a celebration of faith, unity, and cultural diversity.

The General Secretary of the Ghana National Catholic Youth Council, (GHANCYC) Gerald Ekow Woode said the “Drop A 10” campaign is designed to make fundraising inclusive, allowing every Catholic, regardless of financial capacity, to contribute meaningfully. By dialling a designated shortcode *713*8534# and selecting option 1, donors can easily support the initiative via mobile money platforms, reinforcing a collective sense of ownership among the youth and the wider Church community.

He indicated that members of the Local Planning Committee have intensified preparations with sub-committees actively working on logistics, accommodation, liturgy, security, and transportation. The committee is collaborating closely with Church authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that all aspects of the event meet international standards.

The National Executive of GHANCYC has also intensified sensitisation efforts across dioceses, urging parish youth groups and Catholic organisations to actively participate in both the spiritual and financial preparations. Through engagements, announcements, and media campaigns, the Council is fostering enthusiasm and readiness among young people ahead of the historic gathering.

The West Africa Youth Days is expected to serve as a platform for deepening the faith of young Catholics while addressing contemporary challenges facing the youth, including leadership, moral formation, and social responsibility. It will also provide an opportunity for intercultural exchange and networking among participants from different countries within the West African sub-region.