A new dawn for Ghana: Optimism and hope under President John Dramani Mahama

The election of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama as the incoming president of our beloved Republic marks a new beginning of restoration and hope for a better Ghana. His triumph, fostered by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and supported by armies of well-meaning Ghanaians, presages the dawn of a brave and revolutionary quest.

We, the members of the National Democratic Congress- China Chapter, would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, the National Democratic Congress as a party, and to all Ghanaians who have placed their trust in his leadership.

We are highly optimistic that the policies outlined in the party’s manifesto will create jobs, empower the youth, and diversify the economy through industrialization with tangible economic returns at all scales of governance and management.

Particularly, the creation of a 24-hour economy system will unlock new frontiers of modernization through higher economies of scale derivative of expected industrialization driven by efficiency and productivity both in the private and public sectors. The policy will also be a win for the untapped workforce enhancing resilience and standard of living at the household level. We are sure that Ghana will shortly be recognized as a pacesetter of functional 24-hour economies in the sub-region.

Also, the policy to introduce free tertiary education for people with disabilities will go into the records as one with a long-term impact of not only empowering such a group of people but also echoes strongly the voice of inclusion and social justice never experienced in the country. Not only will the policy improve the educational experiences of people with disabilities, but also help to create a more heterogeneous and skilled workforce needed to transform our economy. It is an approach closer to creating a society where all of the citizens can afford to contribute to the development of the country.

For our mothers, sisters and market women especially in the informal sector, the creation of a Women’s Bank is a disruptive endeavour that will offer a greater percentage of them who until now have limited access to business capital necessary to sustain their livelihoods. This policy will not only empower women economically but also make them agents of change, enlargement and innovation in our communities. Having access to financial services and support, women will be empowered to start businesses, generate jobs and make a positive and measurable contribution to the economy.

In addressing the cancer of corruption through ‘Operation Recover All Loot’ remains one of the most needed actions for repairing faith in the governance of Ghana. Corruption undermines progress, deprives the people of essential services, and erodes the credibility of our institutions. The NDC under a Mahama-led government has consistently acted in a transparent and accountable manner.

By prioritizing the recovery of stolen state funds and holding those responsible accountable, the government will not only gain trust among us as a people but also consolidate the willingness of Ghanaians to participate in all meaningful economic propositions aimed at using taxpayers’ monies dutifully to transform our economy.

Another win for the youth will be the National Apprenticeship Programme which promises to equip young Ghanaians with practical skills to join the job market. In a time where traditional academic training may not be responsive to job market demands, this programme provides an answer through practical training and apprenticeships. It is an innovative policy that tackles the increasing rate of youth unemployment and offers hope to millions of young Ghanaians seeking to pursue their entrepreneurial journey.

In a fast-paced world where the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence have become defining elements of an economy’s competitiveness, the programme to train youth in digital skills and create digital entrepreneurs is a crucial step on the road to making Ghana a tech-based economy, especially in the sub-region.

Ghana will be developing a generation of digital-savvy inventors, entrepreneurs, and analysts by equipping young people with the tools to be successful. Furthermore, helping digital entrepreneurs will lead to the rise of new businesses and job creation.

The diaspora community and in particular, those living in China, understand the transforming potential of technology and we strongly endorse this policy as one of the main foundations for Ghana's future development.

In conclusion, we once again thank the NDC, President Mahama and all Ghanaians who pressed for change. We pledge to continue to serve in all possible capacities as needed by our nation and government. Indeed, the reset is here and has begun!