Editorial
Revitalising economy in COVID-19
The budget for the year 2021 was presented on Friday, March 12, 2021, under the theme, “Economic Revitalisation through Completion, Consolidation and continuity”.
The theme focuses on the need to complete all previously initiated projects, consolidate the economy and continue with new programmes for the benefit of the people.
The health sector is important and so we cannot joke with Agenda 111 which seeks to build district hospitals for many of the districts as well as regional hospitals for regions that do not have such facilities.
We need to make sound use of every resource that we can lay our hands on for the rebuilding of the economy.
This explains why the increase in road tolls is a step in the right direction and must be embraced or made acceptable by individuals and groups of people in the country. If more revenue is not raised in this way, not much can be achieved since developments require more revenue.
Property rates for example are not paid by many people and this is not good in terms of revenue mobilisation for national development.
In view of this, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies are expected to work hard along this line so that as much revenue as possible can be realised for national development.
The objectives of the budget are good so we need to ensure its implementation in an efficient way.
Indeed, real economy is expected to grow by five per cent (5%) this year. This is not beyond reach but as a country we need to work harder with revenue mobilisation in all sectors of the economy.
The performance of the economy, began well in 2017 but this has been slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The revenue of the Government of Ghana dropped by 13.6 billion Ghana Cedis. The result of this was very unpleasant because it devastated the economy and slowed down the level of progress that could have been attained.
To ensure that things moved on well, government provided support for small businesses and also for the people in form of free water, electricity and provision of food.
All these became a drain on the economy but they were necessary to support the people to recover from the devastation.
The challenge facing the country today includes the need to increase spending for social services for all groups of people and also presenting a consolidated picture of funding allocations on key services. If these are done, it will help rapid socio-economic development and thereby lead to the realisation of the Ghana Beyond Aid strategy in line with the vision of the President of the Republic.
Ghana as a country cannot relax at this point in time but should continue with the good works being done in all sectors of the economy and this explains why all hands must be on deck to provide support for the Akufo-Addo administration to succeed in the interest of national development.
It is also important for all economic saboteurs who have misapplied or embezzled funds to be investigated and sent to court for prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others.
This way, resources can be saved for the promotion of socio-economic development.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
