Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has outlined a vision to transform Ghana’s approach to natural resource management, aiming to address prevailing concerns.
Bawumia identifies a critical flaw in the current framework governing the mining sector, citing significant foreign ownership of Ghana’s minerals, which he believes undermines national control over its mineral wealth.
The vice president stresses the need for a paradigm shift, asserting that Ghanaians should have full ownership of the country’s mineral resources. He pledges to ensure 100% Ghanaian ownership if elected president.
These declarations were made during a meeting with religious leaders in the Eastern Region at the outset of his 2024 election campaign tour, where he emphasized the importance of maximizing the benefits of Ghana’s natural resources.
Bawumia unveils plans to empower universities and the geological service department to spearhead mineral exploration initiatives, particularly focusing on Ghana’s seven gold belts.
Upon successful exploration, Bawumia envisions implementing policies guaranteeing Ghanaian ownership of minerals, signaling a significant departure from current practices.
Amidst concerns over ongoing power challenges, Bawumia reassures the public, citing Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s assurances of imminent solutions for stable power supply.
As the 2024 presidential candidate for the NPP, Bawumia kick starts his political campaign, commencing with a tour of the Eastern Region before extending to all 16 regions over the next month.
Campaign director Dennis Miracles Aboagye underscores the campaign’s focus on issue-based strategies tailored to address Ghana’s most pressing concerns.
Bawumia plans extensive engagement with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, clergy, youth, traders, transport operators, students, and businesses, alongside media tours, town hall meetings, and other engagements.
Additionally, Bawumia challenges the NDC flag bearer, John Mahama, to a debate, emphasizing the importance of presenting and assessing proposed economic solutions ahead of the December 7 polls.