In a bid to strengthen the partnership between the government and faith-based organizations, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has unveiled a bold promise to prioritize and incentivize these vital institutions should he win the 2024 general elections.
During a breakfast meeting with clergy and Imams in the Eastern Region at Akropong, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the indispensable role played by faith-based organizations, including churches and Islamic groups, in Ghana’s development. He lauded their significant contributions to building schools and hospitals, asserting that they have often outperformed external development partners in their impact on the nation’s infrastructure and social fabric.
Dr. Bawumia articulated his vision for a “golden age” of collaboration between the government and faith-based organizations, pledging to provide them with incentives to further support national development efforts.
“That golden age means we are going to give incentives to faith-based organizations to help the government,” stated Dr. Bawumia, highlighting the need to recognize and reward the invaluable contributions of these organizations. He drew attention to the disparity between the incentives provided to external development partners and the tangible impact delivered by faith-based organizations within Ghana.
“I want us (government) and the faith-based organizations to have a very, very close relationship,” Dr. Bawumia emphasized, advocating for a transformative shift in how these organizations are viewed and engaged with by the government. He stressed the need to treat faith-based organizations as genuine partners in development, acknowledging their substantial investments in education, healthcare, and social welfare.
Dr. Bawumia’s pledge to establish a “golden age” of cooperation reflects his commitment to fostering a symbiotic relationship between the government and faith-based organizations, recognizing their pivotal role in driving socio-economic progress and national cohesion.
As Dr. Bawumia embarks on his nationwide campaign tour, his promise to prioritize and empower faith-based organizations resonates with many Ghanaians who recognize their integral role in shaping the nation’s future. With the prospect of enhanced support and collaboration, faith-based organizations stand poised to play an even greater role in advancing Ghana’s development agenda under Dr. Bawumia’s leadership, should he emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.