Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, has unveiled a bold promise to add 2,000 megawatts of solar power to the national grid if elected President in the upcoming December polls. Speaking at an engagement with the Council of Indigenous Business Association (CIBA) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the potential of solar energy to reduce the cost of power for businesses, especially considering the high cost associated with other energy sources.
The meeting with CIBA, the largest informal business group in Ghana, aimed to solicit concerns and insights from key stakeholders to inform the NPP's 2024 Election Manifesto. Dr. Bawumia encouraged members of CIBA to register their businesses to access various government initiatives aimed at supporting business growth and job creation.
During the interactions, Dr. Bawumia outlined proposed tax reforms, including tax amnesty for businesses and individuals, as well as a flat tax rate, aimed at fostering a conducive business environment. He highlighted the benefits of government digitalization initiatives and assured Ghanaians of stress-free passport acquisition through online application using the Ghana Card.
Addressing specific stakeholder concerns, Dr. Bawumia pledged to facilitate the certification of medicines produced by the Ghana National Association of Traditional Healers under the National Health Insurance Scheme. Additionally, he supported a proposal for the establishment of a refrigerator manufacturing plant in Ghana and promised to review import duties to deter cargo diversion through neighbouring countries' ports.
Dr. Bawumia appealed to Ghanaians for the opportunity to serve as President, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver on his promises. He emphasized his commitment to accountability, stating his readiness to be held accountable by stakeholders if elected.
Mr. John Nimoh, the Executive Secretary of CIBA, affirmed the group's intention to hold Dr. Bawumia accountable through a signed social contract. He also highlighted ongoing efforts by CIBA, in partnership with Waltergate Limited, to streamline activities through a data system and provide members with identity cards featuring payment solution benefits.
