Flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has emphasized the need for a \u201cBuy Ghana First\u201d policy to bolster local manufacturers and reduce the country\u2019s dependence on imports. <\/p>\n Addressing traditional rulers, the clergy, and other stakeholders in Juapong, he stated that this initiative would prioritize government procurement from domestic manufacturers, promoting local industries and creating jobs.<\/p>\n Dr. Bawumia highlighted the struggles faced by local factories, using the Volta Star Textile Factory in Juapong as a key example. <\/p>\n He expressed concern over the factory\u2019s challenges, noting that despite producing quality textiles, demand for their products had plummeted due to the influx of imported goods, particularly for school uniforms.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen I visited the Volta Star Textile Factory in Juapong a few months ago, I saw a company in trouble. We are manufacturing textiles locally, but instead of purchasing from them, we are importing textiles for things like school uniforms from other countries. This creates a problem for our local manufacturers,\u201d Dr. Bawumia remarked.<\/p>\n To address this, he proposed that government agencies should be legally required to purchase locally manufactured goods first before considering imports.<\/p>\n \u201cThe government buys a lot of goods, and this law will require that if a Ghanaian company produces a needed product, it must be sourced from them first. Only if it is unavailable locally should we look outside.\u201d<\/p>\n Dr. Bawumia believes that implementing this policy will help factories like Volta Star thrive, increasing demand for locally made products and creating jobs.<\/p>\n He emphasized that the \u201cBuy Ghana First\u201d policy would support various industries, from textiles to other manufacturing sectors, and enhance the nation\u2019s economic self-reliance.<\/p>\n The initiative is part of Dr. Bawumia\u2019s broader strategy to support local businesses and reduce the country\u2019s trade deficit through increased local production.<\/p>\n Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:<\/b><\/p>\n![\"NPP](\"https:\/\/cdn.ghanaweb.com\/imagelib\/pics\/529\/52994673.295.jpg\" "\\"NPP")
NPP flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n