Vice president, Dr. Bawumia has affirmed that if elected, his administration would institute a research fund to bolster the practice of herbal medicine in the nation.
During his three-day campaign tour and while addressing herbal medicine practitioners and farmers from the Ashanti Region in Kumasi, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the necessity of establishing modern facilities for the hygienic and efficient production of herbal remedies, which are renowned for treating approximately 60% of illnesses in the country.
He stressed the significance of herbal medicine in disease management and advocated for increased research to enhance efficacy, production standards, documentation, and certification of these remedies.
Furthermore, Dr. Bawumia outlined his plans to integrate herbal medicine into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) under his presidency.
Dr. Bawumia also highlighted his commitment to prioritizing agriculture and food production if entrusted with leadership in 2025.
He proposed the adoption of solar energy and mechanization in agricultural practices to ensure year-round food production and boost farmers’ incomes, emphasizing the importance of enhancing agricultural productivity and reducing farmers’ workload.
Under his administration, Dr. Bawumia pledged to establish a comprehensive farmer database to facilitate targeted assistance and support for all farmers.
Moreover, he expressed his intention to empower the Geological Survey Division of the Lands Commission to conduct thorough mineral surveys nationwide, aiding in land demarcation for both mining and agricultural purposes.
This initiative aims to regulate mining activities and prevent conflicts between mining and crop production, particularly in cocoa-growing regions threatened by illegal mining (galamsey) activities.
Dr. Bawumia also promised to implement measures to enhance cocoa production, including the establishment of a pension scheme for cocoa farmers and ensuring the safety of chemicals used in cocoa farming to safeguard cocoa bean quality.