“Golden Age” of Cooperation Between Government and Faith-Based Organizations: Bawumia’s Pledge
In a bold declaration, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has vowed to prioritize faith-based organizations if he emerges victorious in the upcoming 2024 general elections. Speaking during a breakfast meeting with clergy and Imams in the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the significant contributions of churches and Islamic groups in building schools and hospitals for the nation.
Dr. Bawumia stated that these organizations have done more for Ghana than many external development partners and should be treated as partners in development. Their efforts extend beyond spiritual guidance, as they have actively participated in constructing schools and also hospitals across the country. These institutions have become pillars of support for local communities, providing education, healthcare, and social services. He expressed his commitment to establishing a “golden age” of cooperation between the government and faith-based organizations by also offering them incentives.
His words
“That golden age means we are going to give incentives to the faith-based organizations to help the government,” Dr. Bawumia said. “There are a lot of incentives we give to our external development partners. They bring in things duty-free and so on, but they don’t do as much for us as the faith-based organizations. I am going to give a lot of incentives to the faith-based organizations to help the government.” Drawing a parallel with external development partners, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the disparity in contributions. While external partners receive various incentives, faith-based organizations often go unrecognized despite their substantial impact.
He further emphasized the need for a closer relationship between the government and faith-based organizations, recognizing the schools and hospitals they have built for Ghana. Dr. Bawumia aims to strengthen this partnership and ensure that faith-based organizations play a vital role in national development. As the campaign trail heats up, Dr. Bawumia’s promise reflects a commitment to holistic development. By also empowering faith-based organizations, he aims to create a harmonious partnership that also uplifts communities and propels Ghana toward prosperity.
