The Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has underscored that the primary objectives of a government led by Bawumia will be job creation and economic development, should the New Patriotic Party (NPP) secure victory in the 2024 elections.
During the inaugural session of the Election 2024 Dialogue, which took place at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) on October 3, 2024, the Minister elaborated on the NPP’s vision for Ghana’s future under the guidance of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah, who also holds the position of Vice Chair of the NPP’s Manifesto Committee, addressed an audience comprising law students, faculty members, and political analysts, stating that Bawumia’s vision aims to transform Ghana’s economy by shifting from a reliance on raw materials to an emphasis on value addition and industrialization.
He emphasized that this strategy would generate employment opportunities, especially for the youth, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Dr. Bawumia plans to move Ghana beyond being a raw material exporter to becoming a hub for value-added products.
He highlighted that the NPP’s Manifesto encompasses the establishment of technology hubs and industrial parks, aimed at promoting innovation, attracting investment, and assisting small and medium enterprises (SMEs). He asserted that these initiatives would play a crucial role in generating employment opportunities and ensuring Ghana’s competitiveness in the global economy.
Additionally, he emphasized that a government led by Bawumia would enhance the current digitalization agenda to formalize the economy and enhance government revenue collection.
We have already seen significant gains through digital transformation initiatives like mobile money interoperability and the Ghana Card. The next phase will ensure these innovations are fully integrated into our financial systems to support businesses and create more jobs.
Governance reforms designed to improve transparency and efficiency were emphasized as essential elements of Dr. Bawumia’s vision. Mr. Oppong Nkrumah stated that the NPP intends to implement reforms that will optimize public services and ensure accountability within government institutions.
A Bawumia government will ensure that every public official is accountable, and corruption is rooted out at all levels of public service.
The Minister for Works and Housing highlighted the government’s commitment to tackling housing challenges, stating that the NPP’s Manifesto outlines specific strategies to enhance affordable housing initiatives nationwide, with the goal of alleviating the housing shortfall.
He emphasized that collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential in providing housing solutions for low- and middle-income citizens of Ghana.
Housing is a basic necessity, and Dr. Bawumia’s vision ensures that all Ghanaians have access to decent, affordable homes.
As the conversation advanced, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah reiterated the importance of youth employment, highlighting targeted initiatives for educational reform and entrepreneurship programs aimed at providing young Ghanaians with the necessary skills for success in the contemporary economy.
Every year, millions of young people enter the job market, and we must create opportunities for them to succeed.
The Election 2024 Dialogue, hosted by the Law Students’ Association of GIMPA, served as a forum for the NPP to articulate its vision in anticipation of the upcoming 2024 elections.
Comparable events are anticipated to take place at multiple university campuses, allowing the NPP to interact with students and other stakeholders to provide further insights into its strategies for the future of Ghana.