John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has highlighted youth unemployment as a primary concern in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
He outlined that the next NDC administration will prioritize addressing unemployment by introducing an apprenticeship policy. This initiative aims to empower young people by offering opportunities in various artisanal crafts such as hairdressing and seamstressing. Mahama emphasized that the implementation of this program will be led by local Assemblies, which will support artisans in engaging and employing youth.
During his “Building Ghana We Want Tour” in the Ashanti Region, Mahama assured the residents of New Edubiase of his commitment to tackling youth unemployment if elected in 2024. He pledged to establish a National Apprenticeship Program, with District Assemblies taking the lead in overseeing the registration of artisanal business owners and mentoring young individuals.
Additionally, Mahama addressed cocoa farmers in New Edubiase, expressing his plans to introduce initiatives aimed at enhancing the cocoa sector. He emphasized the importance of adding value to cocoa beans by establishing factories in cocoa-growing areas, which would not only benefit farmers but also create employment opportunities for youth.
Furthermore, Mahama urged the current government to utilize the latest IMF bailout judiciously. He highlighted the economic challenges faced by Ghanaians and criticized the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration’s decision to implement Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity consumption. Mahama warned of a potential 21% increase in tariffs, which would further burden citizens financially.
In conclusion, Mahama called on the outgoing government to exercise caution and responsibility in utilizing IMF funds and any additional support from the World Bank and other development partners to alleviate the economic hardships faced by Ghanaians.
