While on his campaign trail across Ghana, the Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia visited the Volta region on schedule, where he engaged with diverse interest groups and articulated his vision and policies for the impending general election.
In the aftermath of his visit, RGG News interviewed residents of Ho, the capital of the Volta region, to gather their thoughts on the vice president’s promises. Some of those interviewed were concerned about the current economic hardships.
Emefa Afetorgbor, a resident at Ahoe Roundabout, pointed at the high cost of food and urged the vice president to make farming more attractive and less costly. She highlighted the poor condition of roads leading to farmlands and its impact on the cost and availability of food.
For Lorlornyo Mensah, a first-time voter and phone repairer at the main Ho-Accra Bus terminal, the need for job opportunities for the unemployed youth in the region was of concern. He expressed interest in a party that can provide lasting employment, particularly for those without formal training.
Daniel Kaledzi also known as Capito, a transport operator is demanding leadership from the vice president in tackling problems of the aftermath of the flood in Mepe and its surrounding communities. Daniel who hails from Mepe said the government has neglected the people of Mepe by not providing lasting help to the victims. For him, this is the sole reason why he will vote against the NPP in the general election. An emotionally charged Daniel said, “If the flood had happened in the stronghold of the NPP government, they would have done everything possible to support them but because it is Volta region, they have been neglected.” Daniel further lamented about how flood victims are still suffering months after the disaster.
Mama Klenam, a trader at the Ho market, wants the current government or incoming government to address Inadequate storage facilities for foodstuff in the region.
She said without proper storage facilities, farmers face significant post-harvest losses. She added apart from Ho which has some storage facilities, most towns in the region lack such facilities. Mama Klenam urged politicians to prioritize practical solutions over grand policies. “Politicians should stop talking big big policies and rather solve the small problems they are facing. Why can’t they establish one big storage facility for each town? She asked.
Overall, while many residents indicated that their voting decisions will be influenced by traditional party affiliations, a notable number emphasized the importance of tangible policies that address job creation and economic hardships.
