The Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has outlined a comprehensive plan to reform small-scale mining and revitalize key sectors of the economy.
Speaking during his tour of the Eastern Region, specifically in Atiwa West, Mr. Mahama highlighted the need to balance the livelihoods of miners with the protection of Ghana’s natural resources.
Mr. Mahama acknowledged that mining is the primary livelihood for many residents in Atiwa West.
However, he expressed concern over the environmental damage caused by illegal mining activities, including the destruction of farmlands and the pollution of water bodies.
“I know mining is a vital source of income for the people of Atiwa West,” he stated.
“But the unregulated activities of some miners have resulted in the degradation of our environment. A new NDC government will implement better measures to ensure that mining activities are sustainable and that our lands and water bodies are protected for future generations.”
He emphasized that the NDC will work closely with traditional leaders, local authorities, and environmental experts to regulate mining activities while creating opportunities for legal and responsible mining operations.
As part of his vision for economic recovery, Mr. Mahama promised to prioritize job creation, especially for the youth.
He outlined plans to establish initiatives that would provide skills training and employment opportunities in various sectors, including agriculture, technology, and industry.
“Our youth are the future of this nation, and they deserve meaningful jobs,” he said. “An NDC government will invest in programs that empower young people to contribute to national development.”
Mr. Mahama also expressed concern about the decline of Ghana’s cocoa sector under the current government.
He assured cocoa farmers that the NDC would provide the necessary support to restore the industry to its former glory.
“The cocoa sector is the backbone of Ghana’s economy, and its collapse is a national tragedy,” he said. “We will revive the sector by addressing farmers’ challenges and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.”
In addition to addressing mining and agriculture, Mr. Mahama pledged to ease the financial burden on Ghanaians by abolishing several controversial taxes.
He specifically promised to scrap the E-levy, betting tax, and other levies that has been described as “nuisance taxes.”
“These taxes are choking the people of Ghana,” he remarked. “An NDC government will abolish them to provide relief to citizens and create an enabling environment for economic growth.”
John Mahama concluded his address with a call for unity and hope, urging Ghanaians to support his vision for a better future.
“Our country deserves better leadership—one that prioritizes the needs of its people,” he declared. “Together, we can build a Ghana that works for everyone.”
His promises were met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd, reflecting widespread support for his campaign in Atiwa West and beyond.
Listen to John Mahama in the audio below 👇:
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites✍️) / Ahotoronline.com | Ghana 🇬🇭
