Since his appointment as Vice-President, Mahamudu Bawumia has helped position Ghana on the international technological and digital scene. He aspires to even greater achievements in this field, should he become President of the Republic.

Ghanaian Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia (photo), nominated as presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), unveiled an ambitious digital program on Wednesday. Bawumia, seeking to leverage his tech-focused image, outlined a vision for a "digital Ghana" that applies technology across key economic sectors.

The program's core includes training one million digital talents over five years, with a focus on software skills. This aims to meet the growing domestic and global demand for tech professionals. Additionally, education reforms prioritize STEM fields, robotics, AI, and vocational training to prepare for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Bawumia also pledged to abolish the 1.5% electronic transaction tax, dubbed the "E-levy," to promote a cashless economy and encourage digital payments. Infrastructure development is another key component, aiming to reduce internet costs and bridge the digital divide. The program targets a 100% internet penetration rate, compared to the current 72%. 

The presidential candidate’s vision encompasses digitizing all sectors, from agriculture and healthcare to education, manufacturing, and finance. This aims to create jobs for young people and position Ghana as a regional digital hub.

Samira Njoya