Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President of Ghana, recently delivered a significant speech in Accra during a meeting with former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). This address underscored his profound vision for transforming both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the nation of Ghana.

During his speech, Bawumia, distinguishing himself from other NPP flagbearer hopefuls often perceived as wealthy businessmen, shared a powerful and thought-provoking quote that has since garnered widespread attention across traditional and social media: "I am not a rich man but God has blessed me with rich ideas." This statement resonated deeply, emphasizing his commitment to innovative solutions over material wealth.

Supporters of Dr. Bawumia have widely circulated a list of 33 key policy initiatives and ideas, attributing their successful implementation and positive impact on the nation to his tenure in the immediate past NPP government. These initiatives are presented as tangible proof of his "rich ideas" and his effectiveness as Vice President.

The extensive list of policies highlights a strong focus on digitalization, social welfare, infrastructure development, and economic reform. Key among these "rich ideas" are:

• Healthcare Infrastructure and Access: This includes the ambitious Agenda 111, aimed at constructing hospitals in districts without such facilities, and the One Constituency, One Ambulance initiative to enhance emergency services. Further, the digitalization of medical records and the networking of hospitals, alongside the provision of hydroxyurea for sickle cell patients under NHIS, demonstrate a commitment to health sector advancement.
• Digital Transformation and Governance: A significant number of policies revolve around leveraging technology for improved public services and governance. These encompass the expedited issuance of Ghanacard, its designation as Ghana's Tax Identification Number, Social Security Number, and National Health Insurance Number, and its issuance to newborn babies. Other digital initiatives include the Digital Property Address System, Zipline medical drones for essential deliveries, Mobile Money Interoperability, and the Ghanapay Payment System.
• Economic and Financial Reforms: Bawumia's economic ideas include the Bank of Ghana Gold Purchasing Programme, the Gold for Forex Programme, and the innovative Gold for Oil Policy, designed to stabilize the cedi and manage fuel prices. The Universal QR Code Payment System and the automation of revenue collection by entities like the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) aim to enhance financial efficiency and transparency.
• Transport and Infrastructure: Policies such as Paperless Ports, digitalization of the DVLA system, Motor Insurance Database, E-gates at Kotoka International Airport, and the abolishing of landing and departure forms for travelers aim to streamline transport and border processes. The introduction of electric buses for public transport with a Tap & Go payment system, and the Sinohydro Barter Agreement for infrastructure projects, point towards modernization and sustainable development.
• Social and Welfare Programs: Initiatives like the Zongo Development Fund, establishment of Kayayei hostels and training facilities, and the National Rental Assistance Scheme address specific social needs. The "No guarantor student loans" scheme, accessible with the Ghanacard, aims to ease the burden on students pursuing higher education.

Other notable digital platforms and systems mentioned include the National E-pharmacy, the Ghana.Gov platform, and the Citizens App for data interoperability, all contributing to a more interconnected and efficient public service delivery. The individualised credit scoring system and automation of pre-mix fuel distribution also highlight efforts towards economic fairness and efficient resource management.

Bawumia’s supporters strongly assert that these extensive and impactful policy contributions to the Akufo-Addo government solidify his position as the most effective Vice President in Ghana’s history. They maintain that his proven record of practical public service is unparalleled by any of his current political contenders, positioning him as a leader with transformative "rich ideas" for the nation's future.