West Africa Youth Days

Maiden West Africa Youth Days Celebration World Youth Day is a Catholic youth festival first introduced by the late St. Pope John Paul II in 1984/85. It is usually held at international, national, diocesan, and parish levels. Despite the many benefits of participating in the international WYD, many West African youths are unable to attend due to high ticket prices and sometimes visa difficulties. Therefore, a regional WYD offers youth the opportunity to experience the international WYD on a smaller scale. The Catholic Bishops of West Africa, through their regional body, the Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa (RECOWA), decided to host a maiden West African World Youth Day in Ghana. This presents a welcome opportunity for West African Youth to experience the international World Youth Day within their own region. The event is scheduled from 7th to 11th September 2026 at the Achimota School in Accra, Ghana. Over 4000 youths are expected to attend, under the theme “Take Courage: Catholic Youth as Actors and Agents of Peace and Hope in West Africa. " Activities planned include faith-building events such as Masses and Bishop-led teachings; leadership sessions on topics like peacebuilding, entrepreneurship, and climate justice; and social activities, including performances showcasing the cultures of participating countries. The event was officially launched in Accra on 22nd November 2025 at Kordiabe during the Accra Archdiocesan World Youth Day celebration. At the launch, the celebration's logo was unveiled. The logo was designed by a Ghanaian youth, Augustine Ahado. The WAYD cross and the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help were also unveiled and are currently touring some selected dioceses in Ghana in anticipation of the event.