Flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has emphasized the need for a “Buy Ghana First” policy to bolster local manufacturers and reduce the country’s dependence on imports. Addressing traditional rulers, the clergy, and other stakeholders in Juapong, he stated that this initiative would prioritize government procurement from domestic manufacturers, promoting local industries and creating jobs.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the struggles faced by local factories, using the Volta Star Textile Factory in Juapong as a key example. He expressed concern over the factory’s challenges, noting that despite producing quality textiles, demand for their products had plummeted due to the influx of imported goods, particularly for school uniforms.
“When I visited the Volta Star Textile Factory in Juapong a few months ago, I saw a company in trouble. We are manufacturing textiles locally, but instead of purchasing from them, we are importing textiles for things like school uniforms from other countries. This creates a problem for our local manufacturers,” Dr. Bawumia remarked.
To address this, he proposed that government agencies should be legally required to purchase locally manufactured goods first before considering imports. “The government buys a lot of goods, and this law will require that if a Ghanaian company produces a needed product, it must be sourced from them first. Only if it is unavailable locally should we look outside.”
Dr. Bawumia believes that implementing this policy will help factories like Volta Star thrive, increasing demand for locally made products and creating jobs. He emphasized that the “Buy Ghana First” policy would support various industries, from textiles to other manufacturing sectors, and enhance the nation’s economic self-reliance.
The initiative is part of Dr. Bawumia’s broader strategy to support local businesses and reduce the country’s trade deficit through increased local production.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah
