Joyce Bawa Mogtari, a Special Aide for former President John Mahama, has affirmed the next government of Mahama will still grant amnesty to alleged illegal miners awaiting prosecution in jail and some convicted miners. Prior to the 2020 general election, John Mahama promised the people of Odum-Banso, a galamsey community in the Western Region that he will grant amnesty to arrested galamsey operators.
Joyce Bawa-Mogtari, spokesperson for John Mahama has affirmed the promised made by Mahama and said it is unfair that foreign nationals and government appointees implicated in the Prof Frimgpong Boateng report on illegal mining have been left scot-free, while the galamsey operators suffer jail time.
“If there are many of our brothers and sisters languishing in prisons because of galamsey, certainly this is a matter that we must look at within the context of the Frimpong Boateng Report”, she stated. She further said if people are being bandied together and thrown into prison without necessarily going before the law, and in some cases wait years for a trial, there needs to be an investigation into it for some interventions to be employed.
On addressing illegal mining in the next NDC government, she said it will serve the country’s interest to have stakeholders in communities join the the conversation and grant amnesty to the illegal mining operators other than those cited in the Frimpong Boateng report.
Furthermore, she noted that if the party wins the upcoming election, it will invest $500 million to combat the illegal mining menace, known locally as ‘galamsey’.
The Overlord of Mamprugu Ndugna Nayiri Naa Bohugu Abdulai Sheriga has expressed strong belief in the ability of Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to successfully make Ghana better as President of the nation.
DR. BAWUMIA AND THE NAYIRI
The Nayiri, who is also the President of the North East Regional House of Chiefs, was confident in the integrity of Dr. Bawumia to uphold the good name of Ghana saying “I am deeply persuaded that you have it in you to carry out the task ahead”.
“You can rise to the challenge and uphold the good name of Ghana and make her greater and stronger”, the Nayiri stressed in a speech read on his behalf at a meeting between Dr. Bawumia and the North East Regional House of Chiefs in Nalerigu on Wednesday.
DR. BAWUMIA DEFERING TO THE NORTH EAST REGIONAL HOUSE OF CHIEFS
The Mamprugu Overlord also commended Dr. Bawumia for his impact as Vice Presidemt as well as his contributions to the development of the community and the nation, assuring him of the people’s support to be elected as President.
“As we prepare for election this year, the least we can do for you, as the son of the soil is to honour you with the opportunity to serve at the highest echelon of state power…We shall not turn our back on you…”
Dr. Bawumia is in the northern part of Ghana as part of his Regional engagements with various stakeholders. Apart from meeting with members of the Regional House Chiefs, the NPP Flagbearer also meets with the clergy, Imams, Zongo Chiefs and the youth. Dr. Bawumia also goes to the markets and shops, the streets and from one house to house to interact with the people.
The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has concluded his two-day campaign tour of the Western Region in preparation for the upcoming 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections. The campaign tour, which strategizes on sending his message to the people began on Wednesday, May 1, with a series of engagements aimed at interacting with different sects of people.
Some market women cheering Dr. Bawumia on.
He commenced by meeting drivers and market women at the Kojokrom Main Lorry Station, followed by a door-to-door campaign in the Kojokrom area. Later that day, he held a special meeting with the Party’s Regional Executive Committee at the Raybow Hotel in Takoradi.
Dr. Bawumia receiving prayers from some religious leaders.
On the second day,Thursday, May 2, Dr. Bawumia started his campaign tour within the region with a breakfast meeting with religious leaders and sought prayers for the his journey ahead.
Dr. Bawumia deferring to the chiefs and queenmothers of the Western Regional House of Chiefs.
He then paid a courtesy call to the members of the Western Regional House of Chiefs in Sekondi to seek advice and guidance from the chiefs and queenmothers.
Dr. Bawumia greeting some fisherfolks.
Subsequently, he met with the fisherfolks at the European Town Fishing Harbour in Sekondi and commissioned the first phase of the Appiatse community reconstruction in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality which was torn apart by gas explosion in 2022.
Dr. Bawumia commissioning Appiatse Community Reconstruction Project
To wrap up his tour, Dr. Bawumia scheduled a meeting with the Small Scale Miners Association, artisans, and youth groups in Tarkwa where he promised to establish a ‘Small Scale Development Bank’ to support their businesses.
On Monday, thousands of residents in the Eastern Region took to the streets to welcome the 2024 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia when he began his first phase of campaign tour.
A massive crowd
Dr Bawumia started from Akuapem North Constituency where he had a breakfast meeting with the Clergy and the Muslim Community where he was already ambushed by the residents before he even arrived.
Thereafter he proceeded on the tour to Koforidua, where a large crowd of market women was already waiting for him at Nkurakan, one of the communities in the Yilo Krobo Constituency, a stronghold of the opposition National Democratic Congress, NDC.
Dr Bawumia exchanging pleasantries with the market women
Before arriving at the Nkurakan Market, enroute to Koforidua, the place was standstill as the people there were in a rush to catch a glimpse of Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, who stopped to exchange pleasantries with the market women as well as the residents.
Arriving in Koforidua, a massive crowd also ambushed Dr Bawumia as the noise prompted onlookers to also rush towards the principal streets to hail the arrival of the NPP presidential candidate.
Dr. Mahamud Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, promised to ensure 100% maximize Ghanaian ownership of mineral resources if elected, come December polls.
Bawumia announced this promise during his regional tour which began in the Eastern Region on Monday April 29, 2024, where he engaged in discussions with religious leaders, student groups and market women.
A packed auditorium listening to Dr. Bawumia’s campaign message.
The current framework of Ghana’s mining sector creates the perception that Ghanaians do not have full ownership of the country’s minerals and this was made to refute such perception in the minds of people.
The people taking pictures with Dr. Bawumia
.“It is as if right now we don’t own our natural resources. I believe that if we do the exploration; and we are going to empower our universities and the geological service department to do the exploration, once we explore that we have seven gold belts that we haven’t yet discovered. Once we have explored and we know that the gold is here, the new policy is going be that the ownership of those resources will be one hundred per cent owned by Ghanaians,” he stated.
“I am going to refocus our paradigm for natural resource management. For the most part, Ghana has not maximized the benefits of our natural resources.
“Since the days of the Portuguese in the 15th century, gold has always been taken out of Ghana. We haven’t benefited much from our natural resources; I am going to change that paradigm. I am going to bring a bigger focus on ownership of our natural resources,” he further remarked.
The presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will begin his nationwide campaign tour on Monday, 29th April to 10th May 2024 to comprehensively explain his policy and campaign to the electorates nationwide.
DR. BAWUMIA INTERACTING WITH ELECTORATES
The campaign tour will start from the Eastern Region, where he will begin from Akropong engaging with chiefs, opinion leaders, student unions, market women and religious leaders. He will take this opportunity to inspect on-going government projects and commission completed projects.
On 2nd May, Dr. Bawumia will continue the campaign tour in the Western Region in his quest to sell his message to the electorates. He will further continue in the Western North Region on 3rd May, the Ahafo Region on 7th May, move to the Bono region on 8th May and end the first phase of the campaign tour in the Ashanti region.
Dr. Bawumia has explained that he wants to be the next President because he has a vision for Ghana by transforming it through a digitalization agenda, creating more jobs, continuing investing in human capital development, building systems, embracing the 4th Industrial Revolution, and diversifying the economy.
The 2024 Flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), will be accompanied by his National Campaign Team, the National Executives of the party, Ministers of State, as well as some Members of Parliament in the various regions to be visited.
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 Communication Directorate of the Bawumia Campaign Team led by Dennis Miracles Aboagye in a Press Conference this afternoon which centred on the Future of Education in Ghana has revealed that there is a possible threat in our education sector should former President Mahama be allowed to take over power once again. According to Dennis Miracles, the future of Ghanaian youth rests on the quality of today’s education and for that matter, we cannot allow education to be bastardized by the politics of an incompetent presidential candidate who failed as a president.
The Bawumia campaign is disdained about the recent attacks on the credibility of WASSCE results and the intelligence of the students as well as the efforts of their teachers and parents by the presidential candidate of the opposition NDC and former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama. The Bawumia campaign team in their official presser believes that former President Mahama’s unnecessary attacks on our education causes reputational damage to our education globally.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye in his presser emphasized the position of the NPP and its presidential candidate. The team believes that the NPP and Dr. Bawumia has the future of Ghanaian youth at heart and are poised to render Ghana ready for the 4th industrial revolution which would be achieved in the possible Bawumia government starting January 2025.
Vice President Dr. Bawumia has revealed a bold and ambitious plan to expand Ghana’s youth capacity and create access to international employment markets. At least one million young Ghanaians will receive IT skills training, including software creation, as part of government-private sector collaboration under the presidency of Dr.Bawumia.
Bawumia Speaks
This innovative project is being presented at a critical juncture, as technological proficiency and digital literacy are becoming more and more important in the global job market. Dr. Bawumia’s policy aims to solve unemployment and establish Ghana as a hub for qualified professionals in the world of technology by providing young Ghanaians with contemporary IT capabilities.
The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. Technology is advancing so quickly that there is a continuing demand for skilled IT professionals across all businesses. The government is empowering people and enhancing Ghana’s competitiveness in the global marketplace by funding the education and training of one million young Ghanaians.
Moreover, the collaboration with the private sector ensures that the training programs are aligned with industry needs and standards, maximizing the employability of the participants. This strategic partnership fosters a symbiotic relationship between the government, private enterprises, and the youth, driving economic growth and prosperity for all stakeholders.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Flagbearer of the NPP
Dr. Bawumia’s vision goes beyond job creation; it is about unleashing the untapped potential of Ghana’s youth and positioning them as drivers of innovation and progress in the digital age. By nurturing a skilled workforce capable of competing on a global scale, Ghana can attract investment, foster entrepreneurship, and chart a path towards sustainable development.
Vice President and the Presidential Candidate of the NPP speaks
Dr. Bawumia’s commitment to training 1 million youth in IT skills is a transformative step towards harnessing Ghana’s demographic dividend and securing a brighter future for generations to come. It is a bold vision that holds the promise of unlocking Ghana’s full potential in the digital era.
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.
