Alan Kyerematen, who served under President Akufo-Addo as Trades Minister for Eight years and later broke away from the governing political party to stand as an independent presidential candidate, has boldly promised to stabilize Ghana’s economy and bring the exchange rate below 5 cedis to the dollar if elected President.

He pledged during his landmark Mega Victory Walk in the Greater Accra Region on November 2, 2024, where he voiced his concerns over the country’s current economic struggles and outlined his commitment to a transformation agenda.

“The exchange rate is currently almost 1=17 cedis, and that is unacceptable,” he declared, vowing to overhaul the economy and restore confidence by reducing inflation and stabilizing the currency. He emphasized that this change would help improve Ghanaians’ purchasing power.

Following the Walk, Alan identified four critical issues that Ghana faces today: unemployment, corruption, illegal mining (galamsey), and the economic downturn. He presented his Great Transformational Plan (GTP) as the comprehensive solution to these challenges, positioning it as a detailed, pragmatic approach that tackles the root causes of these problems.

He stated that his policies stand out as the only actionable plan offered by a politician, enhancing supporters’ confidence. “Through a robust investment in agriculture and local industries, we will create sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for the youth,” he explained. His strategy centers on an agricultural revolution, industrial transformation, and tourism promotion to boost job creation and economic resilience. By increasing local production and reducing reliance on imports, he aims to reduce pressure on the cedi.

Alan also addressed the high unemployment rate among young people, which has driven some into illegal mining. He promised to open legal avenues for young Ghanaians to engage in responsible small-scale mining. “I will cease the licenses of those politicians who have been using the youth and give them to the youth to establish small-scale mining companies that they will own,” he said. Additionally, he assured that his government would provide mining equipment through a work-and-pay system, enabling young entrepreneurs to succeed in the mining industry.

As part of his youth empowerment policies, Alan outlined measures to help young people establish their own businesses. He committed to providing funding, business development training, and market access to support young entrepreneurs. “Due to the various youth empowerment policies, it will be difficult for the youth to complete school without securing jobs or self-employment opportunities,” he added.

In a notable stance on political inclusivity, Alan vowed to adopt a national unity approach, appointing the most capable individuals from across the political spectrum to key government roles. “In my government, if you are NDC, NPP, or someone who doesn’t do politics but can do the job, I will appoint you to be part of it,” he promised, highlighting that competency, not political affiliation, would be the deciding factor.

Alan assured Ghanaians that job opportunities in his administration would be accessible to all, regardless of political ties. “In my government, you don’t need a political party card before you get a job to do. All you need is the Ghana Card,” he pledged, committing to remove partisan barriers to employment.

With his Great Transformational Plan, including initiatives in agriculture, industry, and responsible mining, Alan Kyerematen hopes to address the root causes of Ghana’s economic challenges. His vision resonates with a population eager for economic relief and sustainable growth, reflecting his determination to lead Ghana towards prosperity.