The Vice President of the republic of Ghana, Dr Mahamud Bawumia visited the Madina Market to commiserate with victims of the fire outbreak that gutted parts of the market today.
Dr Bawumia with a trader and her daughter
The fire outbreak which began around 9pm on Wednesday April 10, gutted a section of Madina Market leaving about 50 shops and properties worth thousands of cedis destroyed. The Vice President of the republic of Ghana, Dr. Mahamud Bawumia sympathized with victims of the fire outbreak and assured them of government’s financial support to ameliorate their plight.
Madina market after the fire outbreak
Dr. Bawumia conveyed government’s concern and assured them of government’s steps to replace the burnt shops. The presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) promised the traders with a new 120 store facility which will be a three-story edifice with 70 underground shops.
Artistic impression of the 120 shore facility promised.
In addition, Dr Bawumia promised financial support through the Ghana Enterprise Agency’s Women Empowerment Fund for the traders after verification process and consultation with the municipal assembly.
He further urged them to take precautionary measures to avoid future occurrence by making sure qualified electricians wire their shops. And also, he implored they sign up to fire insurance policy to help protect their investment.
In a recent statement, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Director of Communications for the Dr Bawumia Campaign, has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of harboring envy, bitterness, and hatred towards the beneficiaries of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, commonly referred to as the “Akufo-Addo graduates”. The Free SHS policy, a flagship program of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government led by President Nana Akufo-Addo, aims to provide free secondary education to all eligible Ghanaian students. Since its inception, the policy has been both lauded and criticized.
Some personalities present during the press conference
According to Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the recent attacks on the Free SHS policy and its beneficiaries by the NDC’s flagbearer is indication of sheer envy, bitterness, and hatred towards these promising young Ghanaians. He said that instead of celebrating the opportunities afforded to these students through the policy, the NDC has resorted to negative rhetoric and criticism.”The NDC’s constant attacks on the Free SHS policy and its beneficiaries reveal a deeper animosity towards the progress and success of young Ghanaians,” he stated. “Rather than offering constructive criticism or proposing alternative solutions, the NDC chooses to undermine the achievements of these students and the government’s efforts to improve access to education.” he further remarked.
During a press conference today, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Director of Communications for Dr Bawumia’s 2024 Campaign, announced a comprehensive modernization and expansion drive for Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Ghana. He further highlighted significant achievements in the modernization of TVET, with new state-of-the-art facilities under construction and already existing ones undergoing renovation. He emphasized the government’s vision of adopting Dual TVET Method, which combines classroom learning with practical and on-the-job training which will ensure students are well-prepared for their chosen fields.
GIRLS IN STEM
In a bid to bolster STEM education,Dennis Miracles Aboagye revealed that the government has completed the construction of ten regional STEM centers across the country. These centers aim to train a complete STEM pipeline from primary through Junior High School (JHS) to Senior High School (SHS). The Accra High School STEM Centre, operational already, receives around two hundred and fifty students daily, offering training in robotics, 3D printing, coding, physics, chemistry, and biology for JHS and SHS students in the Greater Accra Region.Additionally, he disclosed that six other STEM centers, nearing ninety percent completion, are located at prominent educational institutions such as Mfantsipim School, Fijai SHS, Koforidua SHS, Jinijini SHS, Ahafoman SHS, and Abuakwa SHS. Meanwhile, centers at Mawuko SHS, Sefwi Wiawso SHS, and Atebubu SHS are between thirty to fifty percent complete, showcasing the government’s commitment to expanding STEM education nationwide.
Furthermore, he remarked government has embarked on improving science laboratories (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) in one hundred and eighty (180) selected Senior High Schools, aiming to enhance practical learning experiences and improve the quality of science education across the country.
The leader and torchbearer of the New Patriotic Party, H.E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, launched the famous Tap n’ Go transport service software application; a multi-functional digital platform for Ghana’s transport ecosystem, at Kaneshie – Accra.
Dr. Bawumia launches the Tap n’ Go system
The all-inclusive digital transport platform is designed to provide quality services for the intra and intercity bus services, trotro, parcel delivery and tracking, loading taxi services, trains and the call on demand uber-like services, seamlessly.
Speaking to stakeholders in the transport industry and the public, H.E. Dr. Bawumia said, “I noted that in the past, Metro Mass Transit Limited was losing 50% of its annual revenue, but with the implementation of Tap n’ Go, the leakages have plugged and today, the Metro Mass Transit is getting more revenue from 200 buses than it did from 500 buses”
He also added that the new initiative will improve efficiency in the public transport sector, by addressing age-old challenges such as delays at the various stations, inability to identify passengers in emergency situations, corruption with drivers’ inability to account earnings, inability to effectively monitor vehicle activities and financial outcomes, lack of access to credit due to inability of financial institutions to verify the revenue performance of vehicles, circulation of fake currencies and many related challenges.
Commuters hail Dr. Bawumia
Our news desk followed up to ascertain matters on grounds to set the record straight. We made our way to the Metro Mass Transit Station at Kaneshie – Accra to interact with managers and users of the new digital transport platform. We interacted with Mr. Sam and his colleagues, who are stationed at Kaneshie to ensure the seamless operation of the Tap n’ Go software application and indicated that the software was developed by young industrious and intellectual Ghanaian developers and debunked the falsehood being speculated by a minority section of Ghanaians, with regards to the location of the CCTV server in the buses. He also indicated that the software application can be used online and offline (using QR Code), he demonstrated numerous features off the application and assured the security of users of the application. This breakdown confirms Dr. Bawumia’s position on the new development.
Our team also engaged users of Tap n’ Go to enquire their perspectives of Tap n’ Go. Mr. Henry Ativor, Ms. Linda Yawson and a retired Ghana National Service senior officer who doe not want his identity revealed commended the new development for its easy usage, stress free payment procedure and data security.
Dr. Bawumia interacts with some commuters
They urged Ghanaians to embrace the Tap n’ Go initiative and rally behind “made in Ghana” products.
In a stirring event held at the Kofi Ohene Konadu Auditorium, the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), the stage was set for a momentous occasion as Ghana geared up for its next phase of leadership. The air buzzed with anticipation as distinguished guests, political stalwarts and members of the New Patriotic Party gathered to witness history unfold on the 7th of February 2024.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
The atmosphere heated with positive energy as the Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia made his grand entry into the Kofi Ohene Konadu Auditorium, UPSA. Before delving into his vision as the spotlight fully shifted to him, the event began with a spirit-filled prayer offered by Apostle Dr. Stephen Kwame Ntow Amoani, a poignant reminder of the spiritual foundation underpinning of the nation’s regard for the Almighty God.
As the event progressed, Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Minister of Information and Dr. Tibu Darko, Deputy General Secretary of the NPP took to the centere stage to extend a warm welcome to audience, setting the tone for what was to come and Mr. Stephen Ntim, Party Chairman, followed suit, emphasizing the party’s commitment to democracy, diversity, unity and how poised they are to attain victory in the upcoming Election 2024. Their words echoed a resounding call for solidarity, urging all to rally behind the chosen candidate and all parliamentary candidates for a brighter future.
Audience cheer Bawumia on
However, it was the presence of a towering figure from Ghana’s political landscape that added a midas touch of nostalgic and reverence to the event. Former President Kuffuor, affectionately known as Ghana’s gentle giant, graced the event with his wisdom and experience. Recalling his encounter with Dr. Bawumia over two decades ago, President Kuffuor painted a vivid picture of a man destined for greatness, a sentiment echoed by his subsequent rise in politics.
Reflecting on the challenges of modern leadership, President J. A. Kufuor emphasized the need for visionary leadership, grounded in both humility and technological prowess. His impassioned plea for competence and unity resonated deeply, transcending party lines and echoing the collective aspirations of the nation.
Bawumia Speaks
In his closing remarks, President J. A. Kufuor left no doubt about his belief in Dr. Bawumia’s ability to steer Ghana towards a brighter future. With unwavering conviction, he called upon all Ghanaians to embrace this moment of destiny, urging them to unite behind their chosen leader with renewed hope and determination. This huge endorsement was graceful and glorifying to the DMB brand and to a larger extent, the elephant family.
As the event proceeded, there was a palpable sense of optimism in the air, a shared belief that Ghana’s next chapter would be defined by selfless leadership, bold solutions, and a collective commitment to progress. In the words of President J. A. Kufuor; “Cometh the Hour, Cometh the Man is now!” and with Dr. Bawumia at the helm of affairs, Ghana is poised to write a new and inspiring chapter in its storied history.
Finally, the Man of the Moment mounted the podium and all set to deliver his masterpiece. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia started as he unveiled his ambitious plans to propel Ghana into a new era of prosperities and opportunities. With the upcoming presidential elections looming, Dr. Bawumia’s speech captured the attention of Ghanaians nationwide, offering a glimpse into his vision for the country’s future.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and wife, Hajia Samira Bawumia
The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party began by acknowledging the pressing economic challenges facing Ghanaians, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global economic challenges. He emphasized the need to tackle rising costs of living head-on, outlining comprehensive strategies to address key areas such as agriculture, energy, housing, and transport.
Highlighting the importance of food security, Bawumia pledged to leverage technology and irrigation to boost commercial farming and enhance improved agricultural activities. He also unveiled plans to invest in renewable energy, aiming to reduce dependence on oil and gas while significantly lowering energy costs through the introduction of solar and wind power.
Underscoring Ghana’s vast natural resources, including gold, lithium, and bauxite, Bawumia emphasized the importance of value addition and Ghanaian ownership. He outlined policies to support responsible mining practices, formalize small-scale mining, and increase Ghana’s gold reserves to stabilize the national currency.
Dr. Bawumia reiterated his commitment to industrialization, particularly in sectors such as agro-processing, gold refinery, and automobile production. He emphasized the importance of empowering local businesses, reducing smuggling, and establishing special economic zones to spur economic growth and job creation.
Addressing concerns about corruption, Bawumia stressed the need for transparency and accountability in governance. He outlined plans to promote a cashless society, introduce digital currencies, and publish public contracts online to enhance transparency and reduce opportunities for corruption.
Bawumia reaffirmed his commitment to investing in education and healthcare, including expanding infrastructure at medical schools and supporting special needs students. He also emphasized the importance of caring for vulnerable groups, partnering with faith-based organizations to promote ethical values and community support.
Bringing his remarks to a conclusion, Dr. Bawumia appealed to Ghanaians to embrace his vision for the future, emphasizing his track record of integrity, hard work, and dedication to public service. He also urged Ghanaians to break free from the shackles of impossibilities and embrace the mindset of Possibilities.
With regards of the upcoming elections, Bawumia urged voters to consider the choice between progress and stagnation, pledging to lead Ghana into a new era of prosperities and opportunities.
In the midst of democratic elections, the integrity of a political party is crucial for upholding the principles of fairness and equality. Recent events surrounding the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Odododiodio constituency primaries have raised serious concerns about the influence of former President John Dramani Mahama and his alleged favoritism, which is eroding the party’s core values and threatening its very foundation.
National Democratic Congress supporters
Scheduled for October 22, 2023, the NDC’s primaries in Odododiodio are meant to be a platform for the party’s members to choose their preferred candidate for the 2024 parliamentary elections. A fair and transparent process is essential to ensure that the chosen candidate truly represents the will of the people. However, disturbing reports of violence and undue interference have marred the run-up to the primaries.
Violence broke out during the vetting of candidates at the NDC headquarters, and it appears that former President Mahama’s influence is at the heart of the turmoil. Allegations suggest that he is actively working to eliminate real competition and promote a candidate of his choice. This not only undermines the principles of democracy but also threatens the very fabric of the NDC.
Act of vandalism at NDC regional office
One particularly alarming incident is the assault on Citi FM journalist Akosua Otchare, who was merely doing her job by covering the vetting process. Such attacks on the media are not only violations of press freedom but also an affront to the democratic values that the NDC claims to uphold. A healthy democracy depends on a free and independent press to hold those in power accountable and to provide the public with information about the political process.
Former President Mahama, as the presidential candidate for the NDC, wields significant influence within the party. However, his involvement in the internal selection process raises questions about whether the NDC is becoming a one-man show rather than a party of collective decisions. It is crucial to remember that the strength of a political party lies in its ability to accommodate diverse perspectives and voices.
This situation is not just a concern for the NDC’s internal affairs but has broader implications for the entire democratic process in Ghana. A party’s internal dysfunction can weaken its ability to provide a strong opposition and hold the ruling party accountable. A divided and biased party may alienate its supporters, leading to disillusionment among the electorate.
The NDC, as one of Ghana’s major political parties, should be a shining example of democracy in action. The favoritism and violence surrounding the Odododiodio primaries have the potential to erode the trust and support the party enjoys among its members and the general public.
It is crucial that the NDC addresses these allegations of favoritism and violence promptly and transparently. The party must demonstrate its commitment to the principles of democracy, free and fair elections, and the protection of press freedom. Ghana’s democracy thrives when political parties maintain a level playing field, fostering inclusivity and transparency. Failure to do so could have severe consequences for the NDC and the health of the nation’s democracy as a whole.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Vice President of the Republic of Ghana has said that ensuring macroeconomic stability by West African states is key to realizing the long-standing dream of achieving a single currency for the Sub-region.
Vice President Bawumia CCMG conference
Speaking at the opening of the 50th Meeting of the Convergence Council of Ministers and Governors of Central Banks of the Member States of the West Africa Monetary Zone (WAMZ) in Accra, on Friday September 15, 2023, Dr. Bawumia also stressed on the significance of a West African monetary integration, especially at a time many economic blocs are being formed around the world, in response to the challenges global economies are currently facing.
“The long-standing dream of the West African Single Currency Project that was mooted a couple of decades ago is as relevant today as when it was first conceived. The recent geoeconomic fragmentation underpins the urgent need for inclusive monetary integration hence the need for stronger policy commitment towards the realisation of this dream,” Dr. Bawumia said.
“We, therefore, must double our efforts in ensuring macroeconomic convergence and stability which are the necessary conditions for the take-off of a monetary union.”
“As we engage in development activities in our various countries, we should not lose sight of the fact that macroeconomic stability is vital for monetary union to thrive. We should, therefore, ensure a balance between economic development and macroeconomic stability.”
Inspite of highlighting challenges hindering the implementation of the West African common currency, including the inability of Member states to meet the set criteria, Vice President Bawumia also acknowledged some significant milestones towards realising the dream.
“Despite the daunting challenges, significant milestones have been achieved in the implementation of the activities of the ECOWAS single currency roadmap over the years.
“I understand that the name of the proposed single currency has been determined and is called eco, a federal model structure has been adopted for the common central bank, the name of the common central bank has been determined as Central Bank of West Africa, a flexible exchange rate regime adopted, and inflation targeting framework chosen.”
Dr. Bawumia
Ghana’s commitment
While identifying macroeconomic stability by member states as an important prerequisite towards realizing the eco dream, Dr. Bawumia spoke of Ghana’s commitment towards and ensuring that.
“We in Ghana, are committed to restoring macroeconomic stability that forms the basis of sustainable economic growth and development,” said the Vice President.
“We are leaving no stone unturned under our Programmed for Economic Growth (PC-PEG) aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability, building resilience through the implementation of wide-ranging and strong structural reforms, and laying the foundation for stronger and more inclusive growth, while also protecting the poor and the vulnerable.”
“Over the medium term, we shall continue to work hard to revive the economy and improve on our performance on the convergence criteria.”
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Assin Central, Ken Agyapong, has said his recent comment about government’s “poor” management of the cedi was not targeted at Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia.
“You call yourself a strategist but when we were taking over power the dollar was GHC4, today US$1 is GHC12 and yet you call yourself a strategist,” Agyapong told NPP delegates. “In March 2022, I had US$40 million in cedi equivalent, in August 2022 the value of the US$40 million had dropped to US$16 million.” According to him, the strategist he was referring to in his tirade was a specific lawmaker.
“The truth hurts… so you are the victim, and I am educating you, and you think I’m hitting back? You see, they are not being fair. I did not hit the Vice President but I hit one MP because he said, ‘We don’t want somebody who will come and say that I have done this and that for the party and Ghana, but we want a strategist,’” Agyapong told Home Radio in the Upper West Region. Respect for Bawumia “I have the utmost respect for Vice President Bawumia and his strategic thinking,” Agyapong, who is also aspiring to become the party’s presidential candidate said. “He has demonstrated time and again his ability to effectively strategise for the benefit of the party and the country as a whole.”
Hon. Kennedy Agyapong
Agyapong did not name the lawmaker in the interview but said that MP was in Parliament “shouting” Ghana was not going to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) but “within two hours the country was there.” The maverick politician also called on the media to avoid sensationalism in their reportage.
“The people that I have helped, made them who they are today, they are the ones that are against me. I bought cars, gave them money, campaigned for them to win their seats, but now, they’re my number one enemies. But I just look at them, and I say ‘Lord, forgive them because of their stomach’”, Agyapong said.
The Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign communication bureau has dismissed claims by one Nigerian journalist believed to have been contacted by John Mahama to smear Vice President Bawumia’s campaign of becoming the Presidential Candidate of the governing New Patriotic party.
Dr. Bawumia, NPP Presidential Aspirant
The communique reads;
“The attention of the Bawumia Campaign Team has been drawn to a post by one David Humdeyin, a journalist in Nigeria, that the Bawumia Campaign is being funded by some Islamic group in Nigeria called the ACF.
We notice that the same narrative has been copied by some persons and groups in Ghana on social media. This narrative is obviously false, fabricated, and only serves the propaganda purposes of its promoters.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Bawumia Campaign has no funding or any linkage with any Islamic group in Nigeria or anywhere else.
We also note that the said David Humdeyin has demonstrated a penchant for making similar claims against some persons and groups in Nigeria without any basis whatsoever
H.E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
The Bawumia Campaign is focused and will not be distracted by such vain untruths.
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been very diligent and transparent from his days as a scholar, banker, and politician throughout his life and will not depart from these now and forever”.
Freeman Foundation and some students in the Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipality
A non-governmental organisation called the FREEMAN FOUNDATION has given BECE candidates in a number of junior high schools in the Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipality mathematical sets worth thousands of cedis. The goal of the contribution made last Friday was to provide some basic necessities to Ghanaian students in the Municipality so they may focus on their BECE preparation and have the peace of mind to do so. In the entire Eastern Region, Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipality performed best in the BECE last year. It’s a sign that if we give these youngsters more attention, their future will be secure. And for that reason, we’ve made the audacious decision to provide them with these basic items
Freeman Foundation and pupils of the Methodist school
According to the CEO Mr. Prince Osei Appah, his Organisation believes in fostering children’s intellectual development for the sake of the nation and the entire continent. He also took advantage of the occasion to exhort young people and prosperous members of the community to assist these kids by giving them the tools and supplies they need to improve instruction and learning in the various basic schools. It is important to remember that investments made in the educational sector will eventually reinforce the foundation and provide a pleasant and brighter future for our small brothers & sisters. Education is the keyto success.
List of schools that benefited from the FREEMAN FOUNDATION maiden edition of the One Student, One Mathematical set policy included; Sakyikrom United JHS, Tieku MA JHS, Adoagyiri Methodist JHS & St Michaels Anglican JHS.
The Freeman Foundation seeks to inform, educate, and inspire people.
