Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia envisions a deeply collaborative and empowered role for civil society organizations (CSOs) and faith-based organizations (FBOs) in Ghana’s national governance and development agenda. He aims to formalize partnerships between the State, traditional leaders, FBOs, and CSOs, recognizing them as key players in national governance, policy advocacy, and community development. Dr. Bawumia’s plan includes creating a National Civil Society Forum, offering a platform for policy dialogue and amplifying diverse voices. He proposes strengthening public media, including community radio, to foster inclusive discourse and community engagement.
Partnering with FBOs and charities, Dr. Bawumia’s vision includes establishing shelters and overnight facilities for the vulnerable and homeless. He also emphasizes FBOs’ role in supporting values training within schools and promoting a values-based society, aligned with the Responsible Citizen Programme and National Coalition initiatives. Tax incentives and other forms of support are intended to recognize FBOs as development partners, empowering them to contribute more effectively to community resilience, health awareness, and educational outcomes.
Dr. Bawumia encourages CSOs and FBOs to actively participate in governance reforms, including the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). He further seeks CSO collaboration to enhance governance transparency, particularly in the context of the digital state.
Dr. Bawumia aims to work with grassroots organizations and CSOs on reforestation, climate adaptation, and sustainable food systems. His vision includes engaging CSOs in water resource management, sanitation initiatives, and rural and urban planning. Through these targeted initiatives, Dr. Bawumia envisions a strengthened and cohesive role for CSOs and FBOs in shaping Ghana’s socio-economic transformation and fostering inclusive growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What is the Safe Neighborhoods Programme (SNP), and how will it improve local communities?
Answer: The SNP plans to enhance community safety by installing streetlights, cleaning public spaces, and building parks. Well-lit streets can deter crime and improve mobility, while clean areas and parks promote health and community unity.
Question 2: What is the Electoral Area Share of the Common Fund, and how will it support local initiatives?
Answer: The EASCF will allocate funds directly to electoral areas, enabling communities to decide and implement projects that meet their specific needs. This participatory approach ensures local voices are heard, and projects that matter most to the community are prioritized.
Question 3: What steps will be taken to improve education in underserved areas?
Answer: We will revamp schools in underserved communities and work with MMDAs to ensure compulsory early years and primary education. This will close the education gap, ensure that every child has access to quality schooling, and provide the foundation for long-term community development.
Question 4: How will healthcare be improved in local communities?
Answer: We plan to scale up the Network of Practice (NoP), ensuring all-hours healthcare and ambulance services in local communities. This means better access to medical care, particularly in underserved regions, ensuring timely medical assistance in emergencies.
Question 5: How will local mining communities be empowered?
Answer: We will support local mining communities by establishing value-added mineral processing centers, gold purchasing hubs, and providing technical expertise. This will ensure local miners get fair prices, retain more of the value from their resources, and gain access to training and support.
Question 6: How will land registration services be improved at the district level?
Answer: We will enhance land registration services at the district level, making it easier to complete land transactions and promoting transparency. This will help protect land ownership and make the process more efficient for individuals and businesses.
Question 7: How will the Bawumia administration formalize the relationship between the State, Chiefs, FBOs, and CSOs?
Answer: The Bawumia administration plans to create structured partnerships between the State, Chiefs, Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs), and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). This will clarify their roles in governance and make them key partners in decision-making. By formalizing these relationships, the government aims to use their combined influence to tackle important social issues and promote national development.
Question 8: What role will CSOs and FBOs play in the process of electing MMDCEs under Bawumia’s government?
Answer: The Bawumia administration plans to work with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) to restart the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). By involving these groups, the government aims to encourage community participation in local governance, ensuring that elected leaders meet the needs and wishes of the people.
Question 9: How will FBOs benefit from collaborating with the government under Bawumia’s leadership?
Answer: Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) that collaborate with the government on development projects will receive tax incentives to encourage their involvement in social services, education, health, and community projects. These incentives aim to strengthen FBOs as important partners in development and support their efforts to improve society.
Question 10: How will Bawumia’s government involve FBOs and CSOs in health promotion and sanitation?
Answer: Bawumia’s administration will work with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs) to promote health and prevention services. These groups will raise awareness about health issues, offer community health services, and run sanitation campaigns to improve public health and hygiene, especially in underserved areas.
