The Change To Reset Ghana

On July 27, 2024, at Tamale Jubilee Park, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will launch a pivotal campaign under the banner "Change To Reset Ghana." This campaign aims to highlight the urgent need for a shift in governance to rescue Ghana from the mismanagement and economic hardships inflicted by the Bawumia-Napo NPP administration.

The John Mahama and Professor Naana Opoku-Agyemang ticket offers a proven track record and a visionary approach for Ghana's future. John Mahama’s achievements in economic stabilization, healthcare, expanding power capacity, and improving urban water supply, combined with Professor Naana Opoku-Agyemang's transformative educational reforms, sharply contrast with the Bawumia-Napo administration's economic mismanagement, soaring national debt, and failure to stabilize the cedi against the dollar— demonstrate that the John Mahama Professor Naana Opoku-Agyemang ticket represents a competent and experienced leadership ready to reset Ghana on a positive path.

Why John Mahama and Professor Naana Opoku-Agyemang

Economic Stability and Power: John Mahama, a leader with a proven track record, symbolizes the competence required to navigate Ghana out of its current economic turmoil. During his tenure from 2012 to 2017, Mahama's administration made significant strides in power management, addressing the power crisis by deploying emergency plants and stabilizing the power situation through the Energy Sector Levy.

Water and Sanitation: Mahama's government prioritized access to clean drinking water. Projects like the Teshie desalination plant, Kpong water expansion project, and the 3Ks project significantly increased urban water supply, benefiting communities across Accra and other regions.

Infrastructure Development: Mahama’s tenure saw unprecedented investments in infrastructure. Key road projects such as Achimota-Ofankor, Awoshie-Pokuase, and the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange transformed transportation networks, enhancing connectivity and boosting economic activities. The expansion of the Takoradi and Tema Harbors and the construction of Terminal 3 at Kotoka International Airport were pivotal in positioning Ghana as a regional trade hub.

Healthcare Advancements: In healthcare, Mahama’s administration expanded the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), trained numerous health professionals, and developed critical infrastructure. This included district hospitals, teaching hospitals, regional hospitals, and polyclinics, significantly improving healthcare delivery nationwide.

Educational Reforms: Mahama's government made substantial contributions to education, including the provision of free textbooks, uniforms, and sandals to pupils in public schools. The elimination of the school shift system and investment in ICT education demonstrated a commitment to inclusive and quality education.

Agricultural Modernization: Recognizing agriculture as a cornerstone of Ghana's economy, Mahama's administration increased the number of harvesters, established agricultural mechanization service centers, and rehabilitated irrigation dams. These initiatives ensured food security and supported the livelihoods of farmers.

Housing and Social Protection: Mahama's administration launched aggressive affordable housing programs, including the Affordable Housing Project at Saglemi and the Security Services Housing Scheme, addressing the housing deficit and providing decent homes for Ghanaians. Social protection programs like the School Feeding Program and the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) were expanded, benefiting vulnerable populations.

Conclusion
In stark contrast, the Bawumia-Napo NPP administration has plunged Ghana into economic despair. Under their watch, the national debt soared from GHS 122 billion in December 2016 to GHS 658.6 billion by February 2024. Despite criticizing the IMF, they prematurely exited the extended credit facility only to return for a loan later. Mismanagement of domestic debt programs led to GHS 60 billion losses by the Bank of Ghana, not to mention the collapse of over 300 financial businesses.

The "Change To Reset Ghana" campaign underscores the need for competent and visionary leadership. John Mahama's achievements demonstrate his capability to steer Ghana towards good governance, addressing economic challenges, and improving the quality of life for all citizens. The NDC's call for change is a call to reset Ghana's future, ensuring sustainable development and equitable growth.

Ebenezer Ato Ntarkurfah Jackson, Cornell University MBA Class of 2015, [email protected]