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Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing informal economy challenges using the Ghana Card, a cornerstone of the nation’s digitalization agenda. Speaking at the 20th Ghana Club 100 Awards, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the detrimental impact of the informal economy, citing issues like age falsification, identity fraud, and the proliferation of counterfeit documents such as insurance, birth certificates, and passports.
He stressed the necessity of transitioning from an informal to a more regulated and transparent economic system. Dr. Bawumia outlined problems prevalent in the informal economy, including corruption, disregard for laws, tax evasion, and a populace with limited access to banking services.
To combat these challenges and harness the economy’s transformative potential, he emphasized the government’s formalization efforts. Dr. Bawumia explained that digitalization, with the Ghana Card at its core, played a crucial role in this endeavor.
He highlighted the digitization of government services through platforms like Ghana.gov.gh, aiming to enhance transparency, clarity, and efficiency in the system. Dr. Bawumia noted that these measures significantly contribute to reducing corruption, allowing individuals to access services without encountering demands for bribes.
He underscored the importance of transitioning from an undisciplined informal economy to one that is structured and accountable. The Ghana Card, which has enrolled over 17 million people, serves as a linchpin, linking bank accounts, SIM cards, Tax Identification Numbers (TINs), and National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) numbers. Furthermore, it’s been linked to the Controller and Accountant General Department’s payroll.
The Vice President highlighted ongoing efforts to further formalize the economy through digitalization, enhancing transparency, and reducing corruption. The initiative aims to create a clearer and more accessible system for businesses and individuals, enabling services without the need for bribery or undue influence.
The implementation of the Ghana Card stands as a foundational step towards curbing corruption and identity fraud within Ghana’s informal economy, ultimately fostering a more transparent and accountable economic landscape.
