NELEC 2024 concludes with a demand for new tax reforms aimed at fostering economic growth
The 2024 National Emerging Leaders Economic Forum (NELEC) has wrapped up with a call for the government to eliminate outdated taxes and implement a new climate levy to encourage sustainable economic growth.
This dynamic forum united young leaders, policy analysts, students, and industry stakeholders, aiming to equip emerging leaders with the knowledge and drive needed to reshape Ghana’s economic future through innovation, sustainability, and youth empowerment.
In his keynote speech, Daniel Asomani, CEO of VODEC Africa, an NGO and one of the forum’s organizers, urged the government to reevaluate taxes that are no longer relevant, such as the COVID-19 levy and certain emission taxes, which he claimed burden the economy unnecessarily.
He proposed that the new climate levy would address environmental concerns while also creating sustainable job opportunities for the youth, contributing to a more equitable economic environment.
Emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth, he encouraged emerging leaders to focus on innovation and sustainability. He also called on aspiring Presidential and Parliamentary candidates for the upcoming national elections to commit to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Expressing concern over the economic situation, he urged the youth to take a more active role in decision-making to ensure a better future for the country.
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Renowned Evangelist and Economist Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh attributed Ghana’s current economic difficulties to a lack of visionary leadership and called for teamwork to alleviate the crisis. He also criticized the youth for not being sufficiently patriotic to drive transformative change in the nation.
“Good leadership and governance that focus on long-term goals over short-term gains can alter a nation’s path. We must awaken from complacency,” he stated.
He urged emerging leaders to prioritize values over financial incentives in the upcoming December elections and cautioned leaders to promote inclusive governance, avoiding favoritism and nepotism.
Isaac Boamah, a business and policy analyst from the United States, advocated for policy reforms that would create more job opportunities for the youth. He stressed the necessity of youth involvement in national policy discussions, encouraging young Ghanaians to actively participate in politics to shape a future aligned with their aspirations.
Nana Barima Acheampong Sarpong, Chief of Asaman in the Ashanti Region, urged the youth to challenge the status quo and strive for a governance system that promotes justice, equality, and the rule of law. He called for a departure from apathy and complacency, encouraging a responsible approach to societal impact.
The event also featured remarks from Mrs. Esi Mmirba Wilson, Director of People of Transformation Consolidated Bank Ghana; Ing. Felix Astrim, CEO of Fedems Limited; Prof. Felix Nikoi Hammond; and various representatives from political parties.
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