The programme aims at building a stronger economy through a vibrant private sector. It is being implemented in conjunction with the Ministry of Telecommunication Science, Technology and Industry and the Center for Enterprise Development.

He noted that Government sees enterprises as a critical component of the country's existence, but he pointed out, there has however been an unfortunate hypocrisy in the debate about the private sector and the poor which suggests that government should choose between both.

Dr. Thompson says just as Government's war against poverty is intensive so does it view enterprises as a critical component of the country's existence. Highlighting government's commitment to the advancement and strengthening of the private sector Dr. Thompson pointed out that Since government assumed office in 2001the company tax has been lowered in phases from 45% to 37.5% so far.

He noted that corporate income tax on exported goods was reduced from 30% to 15, 20 and 25% depending on where goods are exported to. Dr. Thompson also stressed the need for government to play a role in the development of the private sector. He noted that although some people have been proponents of the market economy i.e. letting the private sector take the lead, it cannot be that government must step out of the way for this to happen.

He said there needs to be some strategic partnership in this regard.