By Mercy Darko
The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has promised to add two thousand megawatts of solar power to the national energy mix, thereby reducing the cost of electricity.
Addressing members of the Council of Indigenous Business Associations (CIBA), in Accra, Dr Bawumia said the move is to minimise the burden on businesses and individuals, pledging his commitment to initiate policies that will grow the informal sector, which plays a pivotal role in the economy. He reiterated his promise to remove the E-levy, grant tax amnesty, and introduce a flat-rate tax system when elected President.
The Council of Indigenous Business Associations (CIBA), is made of 15 recognisable groups such as the Ghana National Association of Garages, Market Traders Association and the Traditional Caterers Association of Ghana. The meeting with members of CIBA was to get firsthand information on the concerns of these groups and the vision of the flagbearer to enhance their work. Dr Bawumia said solar energy is the way to go, as it will help businesses cut down on the cost of doing business.
Responding to concerns raised about business registration, Dr Bawumia noted that his office will collaborate with CIBA to enable businesses to register without stress. He said 660 million Ghana cedis from the World Bank and the Mastercard Foundation has been allocated to support Indigenous Businesses. He entreated members of CIBA to apply.
The Guest Speaker, Austin Gamey, in a remark, said the role of indigenous businesses cannot be overemphasised. He noted that with a membership of over 5 million, the Council of Indigenous Business Associations (CIBA), has the potential to transform the economy, calling for the inclusion of CIBA in government business to meet the needs of members. He tabled some concerns and suggestions.
The Executive Secretary of CIBA, John Nimo, said the Association has created a Database Management System to restructure its activities.
