My Focus on Digitalisation Is Not an Escape From Economics; It Is the New Economy – Bawumia

New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer and former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has defended his strong emphasis on digitalisation, insisting that his focus on technology is not an attempt to avoid discussions about Ghana’s economic challenges but rather a recognition of the direction of the modern global economy.

Dr Bawumia made the remarks during an engagement with members of the NPP in Japan on Thursday, November 5, 2026, where he dismissed criticisms from political opponents who have accused him of concentrating on digitalisation at the expense of broader economic issues.

According to him, the global economy has increasingly become technology-driven, making digital infrastructure essential for countries seeking sustainable growth and competitiveness.

“Many people don’t understand the world economy is now digital. The world economy is digital. If you don’t go digital, you cannot prosper in this global economy,” he stated.

He argued that countries that fail to establish strong digital systems risk being left behind as technology continues to transform commerce, financial services and public administration.

To support his position, Dr Bawumia cited mobile money interoperability, the Ghana Card and the digitalisation of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) as examples of initiatives that have contributed to economic activity and improved revenue mobilisation.

He claimed that annual mobile money transactions had increased from GH¢76 billion before the introduction of interoperability to GH¢4.5 trillion last year.

He also said ECG’s monthly revenue collection had risen from approximately GH¢450 million to GH¢2 billion following the introduction of digital payment systems.

Dr Bawumia further highlighted the convenience of digital electricity payments, explaining that Ghanaians living abroad can now purchase electricity for their homes in Ghana without being physically present.

He maintained that digitalisation should be viewed as a central component of economic development rather than a separate policy area, insisting that Ghana must continue investing in technology to remain competitive in the evolving global economy.

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