How can anyone be unaware of the connection between digitalisation and the economy in today’s tech-driven world? – Bawumia challenges
In a stirring address that resonated deeply within the heart of Accra, the Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, stood before an audience filled with taxi drivers and digital enthusiasts at the launch of GoRide, an innovative digital platform designed to revolutionize the taxi industry in Ghana. His voice was laced with a mixture of disbelief and urgency as he expressed shock at the prevailing notion among some individuals that digitalisation bears no significant relationship to the economy.
Dr. Bawumia articulated his astonishment at the ignorance displayed by those who fail to grasp the undeniable connection between digital advancements and economic growth. “In this day and age, how can anyone who is aware of global trends dismiss the crucial role that digitalisation plays in a modern economy?” he questioned, his words echoing the sentiments of a leader determined to push Ghana into the forefront of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
As he spoke, many in the audience speculated that his remarks were subtly directed at former President John Dramani Mahama, who had previously criticized Bawumia’s emphasis on digitalisation over traditional economic strategies. With a firm resolve, Dr. Bawumia elaborated on how contemporary economies are increasingly governed by digital tools, warning that nations that fail to adapt risk being left in the dust of progress.
“Sometimes people don’t quite get what we are doing,” he remarked, a hint of frustration in his tone. “They say, ‘Oh, the Vice President is launching an app; sort of an app,’ and they question, ‘What has that got to do with the economy?'” He paused for effect, allowing the weight of his words to sink in before continuing.
To illustrate his point, Dr. Bawumia drew comparisons with global giants like Uber, the ride-hailing app that has transformed urban transportation. “Did you know that Uber is valued at a staggering $163 billion? That’s more than double the total GDP of Ghana, which stands at $75 billion. Just think about it—one app, one company, has created a value that surpasses the entire economy of our nation.”
His examples didn’t stop there; he invoked the name of Microsoft, a titan in the tech industry. “As of yesterday, Microsoft was valued at an astonishing $3 trillion. That’s 40 times the value of Ghana’s economy!” Dr. Bawumia’s words painted a vivid picture of the vast potential that lies within the digital realm, urging the audience to recognize the imperative of embracing technology.
In a world rapidly evolving through technological innovation, Dr. Bawumia’s passionate plea served as a rallying cry for Ghana to harness the power of digitalisation. He concluded his address with a resounding message: “In this 4th Industrial Revolution, you must understand the link between digitalisation and the economy. Our future depends on it.”
With this powerful reminder, Dr. Bawumia not only launched a new platform but also ignited a conversation about the future of Ghana’s economy, challenging everyone present to consider the transformative potential of digital tools in shaping a prosperous tomorrow.
