By: Nana Kwame Bediako
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) officially launched its manifesto on Sunday, August 18, 2024, for the upcoming general elections. The event, held in Takoradi, drew crowds from all corners of the country, aiming to galvanise the party’s base ahead of the crucial December 7, 2024, elections.
The highlight of the manifesto launch was the address by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate for the NPP, as he outlined his ambitious plans to enhance sports development in Ghana, which he believes will also bolster tourism and the creative arts sector.
In his address, he announced plans to construct six new standard stadia, each with a seating capacity of 5,000 in the newly created regions. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to decentralise sports development and ensure that all regions benefit from improved sports facilities.
Dr. Bawumia emphasised the need to use tax incentives, including a flat tax, to encourage private sector investments in sports, tourism and creative arts facilities. He argued that these sectors have the potential to significantly contribute to Ghana’s economic growth and create numerous job opportunities for the youth. The proposed tax incentives are designed to attract both local and international investors.
In addition to financial incentives, Dr. Bawumia committed to upgrading the surfaces of football pitches across key cities in Ghana. He mentioned specific cities such as Kumasi, Accra, Cape Coast, Legon, Tamale, and Essipong, where the football pitches would be developed to meet the highest international standards.