Dec 7 Elections: APC’s flagbearer unveils ambitious plan to transform Ghana’s economy

Dr. Hassan Ayariga, the leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for Ghana’s economic transformation in the party’s newly launched manifesto.

The manifesto, titled “The Nation’s Manifesto,” was introduced during a ceremony held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on September 21. It outlines a series of strategic policies aimed at turning Ghana into a 24-hour economy, with a focus on generating sustainable employment, enhancing wages, and introducing progressive economic reforms to uplift the standard of living for all Ghanaians.

This vision, according to Ayariga, is designed to reshape the country’s economic landscape through bold and innovative measures.

24-Hour Economy and Three-Shift System

In his manifesto, Dr. Hassan Ayariga has proposed the introduction of a 24-hour economy, which would implement a three-shift work system across essential industries to ensure continuous productivity.

Ayariga believes this approach would significantly enhance economic output while creating millions of job opportunities for Ghanaians. Due to the scope of this ambitious plan, Ayariga noted that Ghana may even have to recruit labor from neighboring countries to meet the growing demand for workers under the new system.

“Our vision for a 24-hour economy will ensure a more productive nation both day and night, creating sustainable jobs and driving economic growth,” Ayariga stated. “We may even need to bring in workers from neighboring countries to sustain the demand.”

Bi-Weekly Salary Structure and Minimum Wage Reform

To enhance worker welfare, Dr. Hassan Ayariga unveiled plans for a bi-weekly salary structure, aimed at providing employees with more frequent and reliable income. He also made a bold promise to raise the minimum salary for public sector workers to GHS 5,000 per month, along with restructuring wages for industrial workers.

Furthermore, Ayariga proposed a significant hike in the minimum daily wage, suggesting an increase from the current GHS 18.15 to a range of GHS 150 to GHS 300, reflecting his commitment to improving living standards for Ghanaians.

“Our plan includes a complete restructuring of salaries across key sectors, ensuring that no Ghanaian is left behind,” Ayariga declared. “We are committed to making GHS 5,000 the baseline for public sector wages.”

A key pillar of Dr. Hassan Ayariga’s manifesto centers on job creation, with plans to establish job centers in every district nationwide. These centers will serve as a bridge between job seekers and employers, while also offering essential training and support services.

Ayariga’s vision focuses on stimulating employment through several sectors, including industrial growth, the manufacturing hub, mining, construction, and the introduction of a 24-hour economy. These initiatives aim to significantly reduce unemployment and boost economic development across the country.

“We will create a network of job centers that will not only link job seekers to employers but also provide training to improve their employability,” Ayariga said. “Our focus on industrialization, manufacturing, and production will be key drivers of job creation.”

Duty-Free Port Access and Tax Reforms

To boost the production, manufacturing, and industrial sectors, Dr. Hassan Ayariga has promised to introduce duty-free port access and eliminate taxes on imported raw materials. This policy is designed to lower production costs for local businesses, thereby fostering the growth of domestic industries. Ayariga believes these measures will enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in international markets, driving economic growth and positioning the country as a key player on the global stage.

“Our plan to remove taxes on imported raw materials and provide duty-free port access will drive industrial growth and lower costs for businesses, ensuring that Ghana can compete on the global stage,” Ayariga noted.

Comprehensive Economic Reforms

Dr. Hassan Ayariga’s manifesto outlines a comprehensive plan for economic reforms, including a revision of the Ghana Labour Act 2003 (Act 651) to strengthen workers’ rights and introduce an efficient payroll system for prompt salary payments. He stressed the importance of regularly reviewing workers’ conditions of service to ensure fairness and drive productivity.

With these reforms, Ayariga aims to create an environment that supports economic growth, job creation, and better living standards for Ghanaians. His manifesto focuses on industrialization, equitable wages, and building a self-sustaining economy that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.

With a strong focus on innovation, industrial growth, and job creation, Ayariga’s “Nation’s Manifesto” is a comprehensive roadmap for transforming Ghana’s economy and securing a brighter future for its people.