We must ensure our children get the finest education – Kufuor

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor emphasized during an interview on Joy News’ PM Express that Ghana’s natural resources should be harnessed to provide quality education, healthcare, and a support system to shield vulnerable citizens from extreme poverty. Kufor outlined good leadership and inclusive governance as crucial factors in realizing this vision.

Responding to a query about the Ghana he envisions for future generations, he highlighted the country's ample resources and the potential of its populace as a solid foundation for prosperity. The primary challenge lies in leading in a manner that generates wealth and directs it towards the benefit of the populace. Kufuor underscored the significance of providing all children with access to the best education available, alongside ensuring good health and support for those facing hardships.

He stressed the need for a safety net to protect individuals who, despite lacking employment, do not experience abject poverty due to the country's rich endowment. He named gold, lithium, bauxite, and manganese as examples of Ghana's natural wealth. Kufuor expressed confidence in Ghanaians' capacity to learn, coexist, and achieve recognition abroad.

He firmly believed that inclusive leadership should transform these advantages into improved living conditions. However, this vision also necessitates more space for individuals to accumulate wealth. He urged leaders to acknowledge the entrepreneurial spirit of Ghanaians, encouraging them to leverage their talents and resources to establish thriving businesses.

Kufuor cautioned against policies that hinder such initiatives, particularly excessive taxation. He argued that legitimately acquired wealth should be retained by its owners, provided they fulfill their reasonable tax obligations. "Let the people become millionaires, and they legitimately — why not let them keep their millions, paying their reasonable taxes?"

He believed that the state's role should be to provide the framework that empowers people. Kufuor argued that fostering a robust private sector would attract both local and foreign investments. He also recognized Ghana's openness as an asset. Yet, he pointed out a discrepancy between this potential and the current state of affairs. "We tend to be open-minded and liberal, but that’s not how we’ve lived so far," he noted.