The Lead Economic Analyst for The New Force, Hubert Baidoo has expressed deep disappointment and concern over government’s failure to improve the country’s transportation system, despite its critical role in driving economic growth. In an exclusive interview with Fati Shaibu-Ali on Happy 98.9FM’s Morning Show on Friday, September 13, Mr. Baidoo shed light on the New Force’s 12 pillars for Economic growth, and lamented Ghana’s neglect of its vast railway lines and water bodies.
He emphasized that the country’s reliance on roads for transporting goods and heavy machinery is not only economically inefficient but also unsustainable, as it causes significant damage to roads and hinders the free movement of people and goods. Mr. Baidoo stressed that adopting a sub-regional railway network and water transportation system would greatly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Ghana’s transportation sector.
Furthermore, he noted that the country’s failure to utilize its numerous water bodies has led to their exploitation by illegal miners, resulting in environmental degradation and loss of economic opportunities. Citing the biblical phrase “the devil gives work to an idle hand,” Mr. Baidoo argued that the idleness of Ghana’s water bodies has created an opportunity for illegal activities to thrive.
Through The New Force’s 12 pillars initiative, Mr. Baidoo assured that they would take concrete steps to revitalize Ghana’s water bodies, optimize their use, and develop a comprehensive transportation system that leverages the country’s railway lines and waterways.