National Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has announced plans to mandate all government agencies to purchase locally-produced rice under a future NDC administration.

This, he said, forms part of the party's commitment to promoting Made-in-Ghana goods and reducing reliance on imports.

Addressing supporters on the final day of his Eastern Region tour, Mahama criticised the current government over reports that expired rice from India had allegedly been served to Senior High School students, describing it as “unacceptable.” He promised a deliberate policy to prioritise made-in-Ghana products.

“The government’s annual budget is almost 200 billion Ghana cedis. If part of this is dedicated to buying locally-produced items like rice and oil, we can drive economic growth and reduce imports. These are basic things we can produce ourselves,” he emphasised.

During his visit to constituencies including Upper Manya Krobo, Lower Manya Krobo, Yilo Krobo, Akuapem North, and Akuapem South, Mahama pledged improved telecommunication networks, better roads, and access to potable drinking water.

Speaking at Asesewa, he assured residents that infrastructure development would be a priority if the NDC returned to power.

In Yilo Krobo, Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to promoting local goods, adding that the policy would not only boost the economy but also create jobs.

The former president also addressed concerns about the Volta River Authority (VRA), vowing that no assets of the state-owned power producer would be sold under his leadership. His comments came amid opposition from VRA staff to a proposed merger between the VRA and the Bui Power Authority, which they fear could lead to privatisation.

Reacting to a viral video in which NPP Vice-Presidential Candidate Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh mistakenly mentioned his name instead of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Mahama said the slip reflected the ruling party’s fear of accountability.

“They know they will be held accountable for their actions. That is why my name keeps coming up,he remarked.

The NDC Presidential Candidate’s tour of the Eastern Region concluded with a call for Ghanaians to support the party’s vision for a better Ghana through policies rooted in self-reliance and sustainable development.