By King Amoah.
In the bustling streets of Odokor in the Greater Accra region, a voice rises above the noise, a voice that speaks not only as an individual but as a representative of a generation longing for progress and change.
Joyce Marfo, a talented graphics designer, recently addressed the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr Mahamoud Bawumia, highlighting a critical issue that resonates deeply with many.
Joyce Marfo in a lively chat exclaimed,”We cannot chew digitization while we remain hungry along with failed economic development.
,She was shedding light on the urgent need for a multifaceted approach to the challenges facing Ghana today.
The Promise of Digitization.
In recent years, digitization has been heralded as the new frontier for economic growth and development.
With the rise of technology, businesses are increasingly moving online, and digital tools are revitalizing traditional sectors.
From mobile banking to e-commerce, the potential for digitization to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and create new avenues for economic engagement is immense.
However, as Joyce articulates, these advancements cannot be fully appreciated if the fundamental needs of the populace are unmet.
The Reality of Economic Development.
Despite the potential that digitization offers, many Ghanaians, especially in urban hotspots like Accra, continue to grapple with economic hardships.
Unemployment rates remain a pressing concern, and many families struggle to secure basic necessities.
The disconnect between rapid technological advancement and stagnating economic growth raises pertinent questions. How can a society transition into a digital economy if the foundational aspects of its economy—such as employment, income generation, and access to resources—are neglected?
Joyce’s assertion mirrors the sentiments of many citizens who feel that while policymakers are eager to promote digital initiatives, there is a glaring absence of strategies to ensure that every Ghanaian can benefit from this digitization wave.
The frustration of being ‘hungry’ for economic security while being told to embrace a digital future is palpable.
Joyce’s message to the NPP’s flagbearer Dr Bawumia’ serves as a call to action for all political leaders—a reminder that digitization must complement an inclusive economic development strategy.
Policies should not only aim to digitize services but also prioritize efforts to equip citizens with the skills necessary to thrive in a digital economy.
Joyce Marfo’s poignant commentary encapsulates the urgent need for a balanced approach to modernization in Ghana.
As the nation navigates the complex landscape of digitization, it is crucial that economic development does not remain a distant dream for some while progress is touted for others.
The call to action is clear, we must address the economic hunger of the people and harness the power of digitization to create a future that is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable for all Ghanaians.
Only then can we truly engage with the digital age without leaving the most vulnerable behind.
