Hassan Ayariga, the Presidential Candidate of the All People’s Party (APC), has made a compelling commitment to the Ghanaian public, vowing that no government property will be sold under his administration if elected in the upcoming general election on December 7, 2024.
This declaration comes amidst growing concerns over the sale of government assets to the wealthy, a situation that has sparked public outcry and demonstrations, notably halting the sale of a 60% stake in four government-owned hotels.
During the launch of the APC 2024 Manifesto at UPSA on Sunday, Ayariga emphasized his belief in the government’s policy of “One District, One Factory” (1D1F) and expressed his disappointment regarding its implementation.
He stated, “I believe in planting for food and jobs, but it was not properly implemented,” highlighting the necessity for effective policy execution to achieve national development.
As part of his economic strategy, Ayariga pledged to prioritize the use of locally produced fertilizers in Ghanaian agriculture, promising to transform the country’s reliance on imports.
He pointed out the staggering figures associated with food importation, revealing that Ghana spends over $1.2 billion on rice imports and $900 million on fish imports annually.
“We cannot have all the resources and keep importing,” he asserted, reinforcing the need for self-sufficiency in agriculture.
The presidential aspirant also outlined plans to enhance the transportation networks across the country, facilitating the efficient movement of agricultural products.
He expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to develop its industries, stating, “We will make fertilizers on our own” and emphasizing the importance of value addition to local products.
In addition to his agricultural initiatives, Ayariga discussed his vision for establishing a manufacturing hub aimed at reviving the Ghanaian textile industry. His commitment to improving domestic production reflects a broader ambition to bolster the nation’s economy and create jobs, paving the way for a more sustainable future for Ghanaians.