In a bold assurance to Ghanaians, Alan Kyerematen pledged to stabilize the economy and reduce the exchange rate to below 5 cedis if elected as President. During his historic Mega Victory Walk in the Greater Accra Region, on 2nd November, 2024, Mr. Kyerematen voiced his dismay over the current economic challenges, emphasizing his commitment to an economic transformation that would address the country’s inflation and exchange rate struggles. “The exchange rate is currently almost $1=17 cedis, and that is unacceptable,” he stated, pledging to overhaul the economy and bring the rate to a level that would restore confidence and purchasing power for Ghanaians.
In his speech after the Walk, Alan identified four major problems facing the nation – unemployment, corruption, Galamsey, and the ailing economy. He assured the crowd that comprehensive solutions to these issues are embedded in his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), positioning it as the only detailed, pragmatic blueprint aimed at tackling the root causes of these challenges. Alan noted that he stands apart as the sole politician who has boldly presented practical solutions to Ghana’s most pressing issues, further building confidence among supporters.
Alan highlighted that his approach would center on an agricultural revolution, industrial transformation, and tourism promotion, which he believes are essential to job creation and economic stability. “Through a robust investment in agriculture and local industries, we will create sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for the youth,” he explained. His plan also emphasizes that boosting domestic production and reducing reliance on imports will help ease the pressure on the cedi.
Touching on his plans to empower the youth, Alan expressed concern over the high youth unemployment rate, which has forced many into illegal mining, commonly known as Galamsey. He promised to create pathways for young Ghanaians to enter responsible small-scale mining through legal channels. “I will cease the licenses of those politicians who have been using the youth and give them to the youth to establish small-scale mining companies that will be owned by them,” he assured. He added that the government would provide mining equipment and machines on a work-and-pay basis, allowing young entrepreneurs to establish themselves in the sector.
The former Trade and Industry Minister outlined policies aimed at enabling young people to establish their own businesses. Alan assured the public that his government would support young entrepreneurs with funding, business development training, and access to markets to grow their enterprises. “Due to the various youth empowerment policies, it will be difficult for the youth to complete school without securing jobs or self-employment opportunities,” he added.
Mr. Kyerematen also made clear his position on political inclusivity, announcing that his government would prioritize a national unity approach by appointing the most qualified individuals across political lines to key positions. “In my government, if you are NDC, NPP, or someone who doesn’t do politics but can do the job, I will appoint you to be part of it,” he declared, emphasizing that competency would be the primary consideration.
A key promise in his speech was that job opportunities would be accessible to all, without political affiliations. “In my government, you don’t need a political party card before you get a job to do. All you need is the Ghana Card,” he assured the youth, committing to remove barriers that limit access to employment based on party loyalty.
Alan’s proposed policies, including youth empowerment, an emphasis on agriculture and industry, and support for responsible small-scale mining, align with his GTP. By addressing the root causes of economic instability, Mr. Kyerematen believes his administration can set the nation on a sustainable path to prosperity.
With a clear objective to address the current exchange rate and inflation crisis, Alan’s vision reverberates with a nation yearning for economic relief and sustainable development.