KEY POINTS
- Bawumia vows to remove mobile phone taxes.
- Plans advanced digital skills training for youth.
- Aims to position Ghana as Africa’s tech hub.
Ghana’s Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Mahamudu Bawumia, has unveiled an ambitious pledge to eliminate taxes on mobile phones, marking a pivotal step in his strategy to lower costs and propel the nation’s digital transformation.
Addressing a vibrant audience in Koforidua during a tour of the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the critical importance of mobile phones in Ghana’s evolving digital economy.
“Mobile phones are no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s digital world,” he stated. By removing taxes on these essential devices, he aims to empower citizens and foster greater connectivity in a rapidly modernizing society.
A Game-changer for Ghanaian consumers
According to GhanaWeb, Dr. Bawumia’s commitment to tax-free mobile phones is set to redefine accessibility for millions of Ghanaians. “One of the key measures I will take as President, by the grace of God, is to remove taxes on mobile phones,” he assured supporters. This bold move, he argues, will make mobile devices significantly more affordable, removing a financial barrier to connectivity for many.
This policy, he noted, is not an isolated initiative but part of a broader strategy to integrate more young people into the digital economy. “Making mobile phones cheaper is a priority that aligns with our ongoing digitization efforts. This is essential for the youth and the future we are building together,” he explained.
Equipping Ghana’s youth for a digital economy
Beyond affordability, Dr. Bawumia’s vision includes preparing Ghana’s youth to thrive in the global tech arena. He outlined a groundbreaking plan to train one million young Ghanaians in advanced digital skills, ranging from software development to artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. “Our goal is to make Ghana a hub for technological innovation and talent in Africa,” he declared.
Dr. Bawumia’s tenure as Vice President has been marked by transformative digital reforms, including the digitization of public services and the introduction of a national digital address system. Building on these successes, his presidential aspirations aim to elevate Ghana into a digital powerhouse.
Positioning Ghana as Africa’s digital powerhouse
Dr. Bawumia’s comprehensive vision seeks to attract significant global tech investments while nurturing homegrown talent. By eliminating barriers to connectivity and equipping the youth with essential skills, he envisions a future where Ghana becomes the go-to destination for technology and innovation on the continent.
“This is not just about affordability; it is about empowerment,” he emphasized. “We are laying the foundation for a digital economy that will drive growth, create jobs, and position Ghana as a leader in the global digital revolution.”
