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

Dr. Hassan Ayariga, leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), has laid out a bold and comprehensive vision for Ghana’s economic future.

This is contained in the party’s manifesto which was launched at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) auditorium on September 21.

Dubbed “The Nation’s Manifesto,” the plan highlights a wide range of policies aimed at transforming the nation into a 24-hour economy, creating sustainable jobs, and improving the living standards of Ghanaians through wage restructuring and innovative economic reforms.

24-Hour Economy and Three-Shift System

One of the proposals in Ayariga’s manifesto is the creation of a 24-hour economy, which would introduce a three-shift work system across key sectors to maximize productivity around the clock.

This, according to Ayariga, will not only boost economic output but also create millions of jobs for Ghanaians. He emphasized that due to the scale of the proposed system, Ghana may even need to recruit workers from neighboring countries to meet workforce demand.

“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

As part of his vision to improve worker welfare, Ayariga announced a bi-weekly salary structure, ensuring more frequent and stable income for employees. In a landmark proposal, he also committed to raising the minimum public sector salary to GHS 5,000 per month and restructuring industrial workers’ wages.

Additionally, Ayariga pledged to review the minimum daily wage, proposing an increase from the current GHS 18.15 to between GHS 150 and GHS 300.

“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.”

Job Creation Through Nationwide Job Centers

Job creation is at the heart of Ayariga’s manifesto. He announced plans to establish job centers in every district throughout the country, designed to connect job seekers with employers and provide critical training and support services. These centers will focus on job creation through various channels such as the industrial revolution, the manufacturing hub, mining and construction, and the proposed 24-hour economy.

“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

In an effort to stimulate growth in the production, manufacturing, and industrial sectors, Ayariga pledged to offer duty-free port access and remove taxes on imported raw materials. This initiative is aimed at reducing production costs and encouraging local industries to thrive, positioning Ghana as a competitive player in global markets.

“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

The manifesto also includes a broad range of economic reforms, including a review of the Ghana Labour Act 2003 (Act 651) to protect workers’ rights and set up an efficient payroll system to ensure timely salary disbursements.

Ayariga emphasized the importance of monitoring and adjusting conditions of service for all workers to maintain fairness and productivity in the workforce.

Through these initiatives, Dr. Hassan Ayariga’s manifesto promises to usher in a new era of economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards for all Ghanaians. His vision reflects a commitment to industrialization, fair wages, and building a self-reliant economy that prioritizes the needs 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.

The post Dec 7 Elections: APC’s flagbearer unveils ambitious plan to transform Ghana’s economy  first appeared on 3News.

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