Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of Ghana and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has highlighted the success of the current Akufo-Addo administration in creating jobs, in contrast to the unemployment crisis during the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.
Speaking at the 8th Ghana CEO Summit in Accra, Dr Bawumia responded to criticism from former President John Mahama regarding the high unemployment rate in the country. Mahama had pointed out that unemployment has risen to 14.7% from 8.5% in 2017, with inflation above 25% and interest rates ranging between 30% and 50%.
However, Dr Bawumia defended the government’s record, stating that they have created over 2.1 million jobs, the highest number in the Fourth Republic. He emphasized that the NPP administration has generated 1.2 million jobs in the public sector and 975,000 jobs in the private sector. Dr Bawumia also highlighted the infrastructure projects undertaken by the government, including road construction, railway development, airport expansion, and the establishment of public libraries.
In response to Mahama’s criticism, Dr Bawumia asserted that the current government has significantly improved the country’s economy and labor force. He criticized the previous administration for creating unemployment through challenges like the erratic power supply known as “Dumsor.”
Overall, Dr Bawumia’s remarks underscored the Akufo-Addo administration’s efforts in job creation and infrastructure development, positioning the government as a key driver of economic growth and progress in Ghana.