Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has strongly defended his focus on digitalization, addressing claims that he has neglected economic matters. During a media engagement at the Movenpick Hotel in Accra, Dr. Bawumia argued that digitalization is integral to transforming the Ghanaian economy, asserting that economic progress cannot be achieved without leveraging the digital infrastructure of the new age.
He highlighted the importance of digital identity and the role it plays in formalizing the economy, making it easier to manage and reducing informality. Dr. Bawumia also mentioned his earlier advocacy for Africa to embrace digitalization, referencing his 2010 book on monetary policy and financial reform, where he emphasized the need for Africa to go digital to avoid missing out on the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The Vice President acknowledged criticism for not focusing enough on the economy, especially compared to his earlier involvement during the 2016 elections. However, he insisted that digitalization and economic development are closely linked and that his digitalization agenda lays the foundation for job creation and economic growth.
“This is where the world is going. And I am just at the forefront in terms of policy of moving this in this country,” Dr. Bawumia stated, underscoring the necessity of embracing digital transformation to keep pace with global economic trends.