Former Majority Leader, Osei-Kyei Mensah Bonsu, has expressed his support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s digitalization agenda, citing its potential to create job opportunities, curb corruption, and boost government revenue in Ghana.
During an interview on the Orange Sunrise with Alfa Ali, the Suame Legislator stated the success of digitalizing the ports, which generated approximately 9 billion cedis during a period of financial strain post-Covid-19.
He noted that the digitalization efforts spearheaded by Dr. Bawumia led to a substantial increase in revenue for the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
“In 2023, when we were short on cash, the digitalization at the ports that we began piloting at Dr. Bawumia’s suggestion proved to be successful. By reducing person-to-person contact, it helped generate an additional nearly 9 billion for GRA,” he stated.
He further indicated that this achievement was unprecedented in the last 30 years and is projected to increase from GHS9 billion in 2023 to approximately GHS10 billion in 2024.
The Lawmaker observed that these strategic initiatives played a pivotal role in revitalizing the economy immediately following the Covid-19 period, earning praise from international bodies such as the IMF and the World Bank.
He noted that the economy has demonstrated steady growth, with a growth rate of 4.7 percent in the first quarter of 2024 and 6.9 percent in the second quarter.
He anticipates that the year will conclude with a growth rate ranging between 5.5 and 6 percent.
Osei-Kyei Mensah Bonsu criticized the previous Mahama administration, stating that the average GDP growth rate during their tenure was 2.9 percent.
In contrast, under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership, the GDP growth rate has been averaging 7 percent.
“The standard for measuring economic growth is the GDP, which is the main yardstick. The GDP growth rate during John Mahama’s 4-year term averaged 2.9 percent. Akufo-Addo inherited this and has since grown the economy at 7 percent. So, if we’ve increased it from 2.9 percent to 7 percent, how can you say we’ve mismanaged the economy?” he asked host Alfa Ali.
