NPP's 2024 Manifesto Aims to Create Millions of Jobs, Boost Mining and National Development

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has launched a bold and ambitious 2024 manifesto aimed at building on the achievements of President Nana Akufo-Addo's administration, focusing on job creation and national development. Speaking at the manifesto launch in Takoradi on August 18, 2024, Lands Minister Samuel Abdulai Jinapor highlighted key areas of progress and future plans that the NPP intends to pursue if given the mandate in the upcoming elections.

One of the central promises of the manifesto is the creation of millions of jobs for Ghana's youth. This plan, according to Jinapor, builds on the NPP government's successful track record, particularly in the mining sector. "Ghana is now the leading gold producer in Africa, having overtaken South Africa, and we rank sixth globally," he said, emphasizing the strides the country has made under the NPP’s leadership.

Jinapor further noted that three new gold mines are currently under construction, which will bring in significant investment and create high-paying jobs for the youth. He also touted the government's efforts to enhance local content in the mining industry and increase participation of Ghanaians in this burgeoning sector.

"The reduction of withholding tax on unprocessed gold has resulted in a 6,000% increase in gold exports from the small-scale mining sector," Jinapor added, pointing to the NPP’s focus on ensuring that the local economy benefits directly from the nation's mineral wealth.

In line with the theme of job creation, the NPP manifesto also promises to establish a Minerals Development Bank, which will further drive growth and employment in the mining sector and beyond. "It will be jobs, jobs, jobs for the Ghanaian people," Jinapor declared emphatically during his presentation.

Apart from mining, the manifesto highlights Ghana’s global leadership in forestry and environmental management. Jinapor pointed to the success of the Green Ghana Project, which has resulted in the planting of over 52 million trees in four years, as evidence of the government’s commitment to environmental protection and climate action.

On security, the Minister outlined the government's achievements in equipping the armed forces and enhancing national security. "We have settled $13 million in arrears owed to peacekeeping personnel and increased their allowances," he said, praising the government's investment in national defense and security.

In a rallying call to Ghana’s youth, Jinapor urged them to support the NPP and its presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, whom he described as "smart, hardworking, youthful, and problem-solving." He framed a vote for Dr. Bawumia as a vote for bold solutions and a prosperous future for Ghana.

The NPP’s manifesto sets out an optimistic vision for Ghana, with a strong focus on creating jobs, driving development in key sectors like mining, and ensuring environmental sustainability, all underpinned by a commitment to national security and economic stability.