The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has questioned a 72% increase in rent payments by the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), rising from GH¢3.2 million in 2023 to GH¢5.5 million in 2024.
Appearing before the Committee on Friday, August 22, 2025, YEA CEO Malik Basintale and other agency officials were criticised for failing to challenge or renegotiate the steep increase in rent.
In response, Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, assured the Committee that efforts are underway to secure a permanent office space to ease the Agency’s financial burden.
YEA management attributed the spike to a new arrangement initiated in 2023, when the Ministry of Works and Housing transferred management of the Agency’s office facility to Messrs K&A Developers, a private entity now responsible for the property.
“The CEO and I have engaged the Office of the Chief of Staff on securing permanent accommodation for the YEA. We will report back to this House with concrete plans and facilities identified for the Agency,” the Minister stated.
The PAC has urged urgent action to ensure prudent use of public funds and prevent further strain on the Agency’s resources.
