Former President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for the upcoming 2024 general elections has underscored his commitment to bolstering small businesses and the agricultural sector in Ghana.

The flagbearer and leader of the main opposition party in a statement, recounting insight from his tour, in the Northern Region highlighted the critical role of small enterprises in the local economy.

“During my recent visit back home, I had the privilege of meeting with a cashew nuts businessman, Mr Taylor, and his dedicated staff. It was a humbling experience to hear their stories and campaign for their votes in the 7th of December election. It was touching to hear about the importance of his business and how it has provided employment opportunities for young people in the area.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, National Democratic Congress flagbearer

Mr Mahama, while highlighting the importance of small businesses to the local economy further touted the significant impact of small businesses on employment and economic stability.

He particularly acknowledged the vital contribution of the cashew nuts business, which he noted has created numerous job opportunities for young people in the region.

The National Democratic Congress flagbearer thus expressed his admiration for the hard work and resilience of the cashew nuts business, underscoring his call for Ghanaians to rally behind his candidacy ahead of the upcoming December 7th election.

Mr Mahama reiterated his unwavering commitment to provide support for small business owners like Mr Taylor and highlighted his strategic plan to establish regional processing zones.

He emphasized his vision to empower farmers and enhance agro-industrial processing, which he believes will have a profound impact on the national economy.

Creation of Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones

Central to Mr Mahama’s plan is the creation of special agro-industrial processing zones in all sixteen regions of Ghana.

He noted that in collaboration with the Ghana Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank), the initiative aims to elevate the value of crops by focusing on those with a comparative advantage.

This strategy according to the former President is expected to generate new employment opportunities and gradually reduce the country’s reliance on imported raw materials for strategic products.

“My vision is to transform the agricultural sector into a thriving industry that supports our economy.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, National Democratic Congress flagbearer

He articulated his commitment to delivering on promises that support small businesses and farmers, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for Ghana.

In addition, Mr Mahama, while acknowledging the challenges and potential within the country’s agricultural sector asserted that by enhancing value-added processing and supporting local businesses, he aims to create a more self-reliant economy.

In an earlier remark, Dr Peter Boamah Otokunor, the Director of Inter-Party and Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Relations (Corporate Affairs) for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), articulated the enduring vision of former President John Dramani Mahama’s administration during a meeting with the Integrated Social Development Centre (ISODEC).

The former General Secretary of the main opposition party, Dr. Otokunor underscored the National Democratic Congress flagbearer’s dedication to transformative projects designed to propel the nation towards sustainable growth and prosperity.

Among the key initiatives highlighted were Vision 2020 and the ambitious 40-year Development Plan, both comprehensive strategies he noted were devised under Mr Mahama’s administration.

These plans according to the former Deputy General Secretary of the opposition party aimed to address critical areas including economic diversification, infrastructural development, and social welfare enhancement.