Ghana's journey towards self-reliance was based on collaboration and input, particularly from the youth. And in the 1960s, when Ghana was at the peak of its industrial strength, young, energetic workers were leading this effort. However, by 1972, Ghana was facing a severe economic crisis characterised by high inflation, shortages of essential goods, lack of market access, and overall economic and political instability. At the time, Colonel , who came to power through a coup d'état, aimed to unite Ghanaians to help the country recover by participating in various nationalistic and self-sustaining activities. Known as "Operation Feed Yourself," the initiative promoted self-reliance and community involvement to address the economic crisis.