The Interparty and Civil Society Organisations (CSO) Directorate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Eastern Region held a meeting with hairdressers and mechanics in Ati-Tafo, Abuakwa North municipality.
The engagement provided the artisans an opportunity to express their concerns and challenges, which primarily centered around the lack of financial support, rising cost of equipment and materials, and the high cost of electricity which is collapsing their businesses.
Kwaku Boateng, the Eastern Regional Director of Interparty and CSOs Relations Directorate, addressed these concerns, assuring the artisans that a John Mahama-led government would implement policies to address their needs.
He further stressed that the National Apprenticeship Program by the NDC would provide financial support to master craftsmen to train more youth in artisanal skills.
“The program will ensure that artisans receive the support needed to grow their businesses and train the next generation,” Boateng said.
He further explained that the NDC’s plan includes offering tax incentives and reducing electricity costs for those who subscribe to the 24-hour economy policy.
Additionally, the party intends to exempt vehicles imported for commercial use from import duties, which would help reduce transportation costs and, ultimately, fares.
Addressing concerns related to family welfare, Kwaku Boateng also mentioned that a Mahama administration would extend maternity leave to four months for mothers, while fathers would receive seven days of paternity leave.
“This policy will enable families to better support their children during crucial early months,” he noted.
The creation of the InterParty and CSOs Relations Directorate aligns with the NDC’s commitment to social democracy and inclusivity, with a focus on fostering collaboration between political parties and civil society groups. In recent months, the Eastern Regional Directorate has ramped up engagements with various stakeholders, including smallholder farmers, cocoa farmers, miners, and businesses, to discuss the NDC’s policies and listen to the challenges these sectors face.
Kwaku Boateng described these engagements as fruitful, assuring that the NDC would continue to engage with all groups to ensure their concerns are addressed.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
