Goldcoast Newsline – Where Every Wave Tells a Story

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December 4, 2024
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Voting NDC will kill free SHS – Collins Owusu Amankwaa warns

Collins Owusu Amankwaa, former Member of Parliament for Manhyia North, has urged Ghanaians to prioritize safeguarding the Free Senior High School (SHS) initiative as the nation heads to the polls this Saturday.

The former MP, speaking on behalf of the Ashanti Heritage Platform (AHP), highlighted the critical need for voters to make decisions that protect the future of the country’s youth and resist temptations that could undermine progress.

“Fellow Ghanaians,” he began, “we stand on the brink of an important opportunity—a chance to cast our ballots and shape the future leadership of our beloved country.

Together, we face a critical choice: to uphold the principles of an educated society or to compromise the future of our youth for a mere 1,000.”

The former lawmaker alleged that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been enticing voters with monetary promises, urging citizens to remain vigilant.

He expressed deep concern that voting for the NDC could jeopardize the Free SHS program, which he described as transformative for countless Ghanaian families.

“Think back to when the NDC promised a one-time premium under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). During their time in power, they nearly undermined this essential service,” he reminded the public.

“Similarly, when former President Kufuor introduced the groundbreaking four-year secondary education system—producing excellent results—the NDC opposed it and dismantled it upon returning to power.”

Collins Owusu Amankwaa also questioned the feasibility of recent NDC promises concerning Free SHS. “Today, they speak of the Free SHS program, which costs approximately 18,000 annually for each student.

“Why would you entertain the idea of accepting 1,000 and vote against this initiative, knowing full well that the NDC has made it clear they would abolish it if elected?”

He emphasized that while frustrations with unmet expectations might tempt some voters to support the opposition, such a decision would only worsen the country’s circumstances.

Instead, he urged voters to support Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), highlighting their commitment to sustaining Free SHS and advancing Ghana’s development.

“Let us not allow our frustrations or unmet expectations to drive us to support a party that would ultimately worsen our circumstances,” Owusu Amankwaa appealed. “We must unite in our support for Dr Bawumia and the NPP to preserve the Free SHS program and foster the continuation of numerous projects that benefit our nation.”

Source: asaaseradio.com

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December 4, 2024
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Group exposes NDC plot to destabilize Ashanti Region on election day

A group calling itself the Ashanti Heritage Front (AHF) has raised alarms over alleged plans by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to disrupt the upcoming elections in the Ashanti Region, the governing party’s stronghold.

According to the group, the NDC is purportedly recruiting former military and police officers, along with thugs, to create confusion and intimidate voters on election day.

They specifically accused assigns of former President John Mahama of orchestrating what they described as “evil machinations” aimed at destabilizing the region during the electoral process.

Convener of the group and former NPP lawmaker Collins Owusu Amankwah speaking at a press conference on Tuesday (3 December) said, “They [the NDC] are recruiting former military and policemen as well as other thugs on voting day, to cause confusion in the Ashanti Region and to intimidate voters from coming out to vote in their numbers on December 7

“We are also aware of plans to use Alfred Mahama, biological brother of former President John Mahama, Richard Jakpa, and Hopeson Adorye, to carry out evil machinations in the Ashanti Region. We, in the NPP, are committed to a clean campaign and it is clear that our flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia including all our parliamentary candidates have carried out issue-based campaigns throughout the country”.

The group further urged all political parties and stakeholders to promote a peaceful electoral process, warning that any attempts to foment discord or insult revered leaders such as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and former President Kufuor would be met with resistance.

“The statement [made by Dela Edem] on former President Kufuor was made by a person who incidentally benefitted from the NHIS, an intervention policy instituted by Mr Kufuor…We also note the incessant outpour of insults on our revered King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II by assigns of the NDC including Kevin Taylor

“We, hereby serve notice that no one would be allowed to insult our leaders and our flagbearer as well as our King and go free. We will also not allow people to infiltrate the Ashanti Region and carry out hate speech and foul language agenda…We will use legitimate means to ensure people go out to vote peacefully”, Mr Owusu Amankwah warned.

Source: asaaseradio.com

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December 3, 2024
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Mahama reiterates ‘Ghanaians have short memories’ claim

The flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has reportedly encouraged members of his party to persist in misleading Ghanaians, particularly voters in the Ashanti Region, reiterating his infamous claim that “Ghanaians have short memories”, and will easily forget any untruths.

In an audio capturing the voice of the former President allegedly speaking to his campaigners, Mr. Mahama is heard saying: “Ghanaians have short memories; you can always lie to them today, and by tomorrow, they will forget,” emphasizing the need for NDC members to “finish hard” by sticking to this strategy.

He is also heard adding, “The Ashantis are believing the lies and are coming out to support. So, let’s finish hard.”

The leaked tape also features Mr. Mahama purportedly discussing plans to dismiss security officers en masse if the NDC returns to power. “For the security forces, let’s finish the elections, and we can flush them out,” Mr Mahama allegedly indicated.

This also follows prior comments by NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, who, in August 2024, threatened to sack all newly recruited security personnel under the current administration.

Addressing residents of Boso in the Asuogyaman constituency, Mr. Nketiah accused the NPP of filling security services with “party boys”, and vowed to reverse these appointments.

Similarly, in July 2020, the NDC’s National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, issued a warning to security agencies, stating, “The day President Akufo-Addo exits office will be the last day they serve as policemen and military men, and we will deal with them mercilessly.”

In December 2013, while addressing a congregation at the Revival Restoration Centre of the Assemblies of God Church in Accra, Mr Mahama described Ghanaians as having “short memories.” At the time, he remarked, “The country has had a challenging year… Very often in Ghana, we have a very short memory.”

The repeated invocation of the phrase “short memory” by Mr. Mahama has become a point of contention, with critics accusing him of disrespecting the intelligence of voters.

Members of the NPP have condemned the alleged remarks, describing them as a betrayal of public trust.

NPP Communications Director Richard Ahiagbah stated, “This audio confirms what we have always known: the NDC’s strategy is built on deceit and manipulation.”

Meanwhile, some political analysts have called for a thorough investigation into the authenticity of the tape, and challenged the NDC to address the allegations directly.

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December 3, 2024
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First Lady urges Electorates to vote peacefully on Saturday

The first lady Mrs Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has urged the electorates to peacefully go and cast their ballots on December 7 and wait patiently for the declaration of the winners after that.

She was speaking with the constituents of Trobu and Okaikwei North Constituencies in the Greater Accra Region, as part of her campaigning and thank you tour within the region.

She advised all Ghanaians not to get themselves involved in any squabbles during the elections, but they should just go and cast their ballots in peace.

“Go and cast your ballot peacefully and let Ghana move to better heights,” she said.

Mrs Akufo-Addo assured the people that nothing untoward would happen on the elections day, adding that the police and other security agencies would be at post to ensure a smooth and peaceful election, so nobody should be afraid that something bad would happen to them once they go out to participate in the elections.

While bidding the constituents farewell as she and her husband, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo exit office on January 7, she also used the occasion to canvass for votes for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and all the parliamentary candidates of the NPP contesting the 2024 general elections.

Interacting with party faithful’s, Mrs Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of continuity in developing a nation, and appealed to the electorates to keep the NPP in power to continue with development initiatives that it had implemented over the years to better the lots of all citizens.

“President Akufo-Addo made many promises to you when he was seeking the mandate and he has delivered on almost all of them, but Ghana deserves a lot more and the only person to continue these good works, is Dr Mahamudu Bawumia,” she said.

The first lady spoke highly of Dr Bawumia on his intelligence and unique capabilities, which were needful in developing the country.

“Dr Bawumia understands digitalisation and technology, which are needed in our present world to solve present day challenges and when voted into office, he has many ideas to bring on board to advance Ghana’s development,” she said.

While urging supporters to “spread the good news” to support Dr Bawumia’s win in the elections, Mrs Akufo-Addo also implored them to vote for the NPP parliamentary candidates; Madam Gloria Owusu of the Trobu Constituency and Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei of Okaikoi North Constituency to win their respective seats.

Madam Owusu urged all eligible voters in the Trobu Constituency to vote massively for the NPP for a convincing win.

“We do not want the situation where the NDC will disagree with losing this elections so let us vote massively and widen the gap so they won’t have any reason to contest the results.

“Vote number 1 for both Dr Bawumia and Gloria and tell all your friends, family, loved ones to do same,” she urged.

On her part, Mrs Asiamah-Adjei encouraged her constituents to go all out to cast their ballots on Saturday, without fear or intimidation, assuring them of utmost security on the day.

Source: GNA

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December 3, 2024
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IMF approves $360m for Ghana after third review

The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved the disbursement of $360 million to Ghana under its $3 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF).

This follows the successful completion of Ghana’s third review under the program, as announced on Monday, December 2, 2024.

The latest disbursement brings Ghana’s total receipts from the ECF to $1.92 billion. The funds are expected to be credited to the Bank of Ghana by the end of the week.

“Ghana’s performance under the program has been generally satisfactory, and reform efforts are paying off. Good progress has been made on debt restructuring. Growth is recovering rapidly, inflation has declined—although at a slower pace, and the fiscal and external positions have continued to improve”, the IMF said in a release.

The statement added that the “Ghanaian authorities have continued to make remarkable headways on their public debt restructuring. After successfully restructuring domestic debt last year and reaching an agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding with Ghana’s Official Creditors Committee (OCC) under the G20 Common Framework in June 2024, the government has completed the exchange of its Eurobonds at conditions consistent with program parameters.

“The authorities have also intensified engagement with their remaining external commercial creditors on a restructuring in line with program parameters and comparability of treatment.

“The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has maintained a prudent monetary policy stance to sustain a continued reduction in inflation against heightened risks and has taken important steps to rebuild international reserves.

“The BoG has also appropriately strengthened measures to buttress financial sector stability by intensifying actions to promote timely recapitalization and steps to sustain the viability of banks. The government has started recapitalizing state-owned banks consistent with available resources.”

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December 3, 2024
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President commissions phase II of the Tema Motorway Interchange

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Monday commissioned the Tema Motorway Roundabout Phase II project, a major intersection connecting the capital city of Accra to the industrial city of Tema.

The facility, coming on the back of the recent inauguration of the Flowerpot and Obetsebi-Lamptey Interchanges, is designed to ease traffic congestion at the five-legged Tema intersection.

It is one of the critical components of the rehabilitation and expansion of the 19.5-kilometer stretch encompassing the transformation of the Motorway into a modern 10-lane divided highway.

“Road infrastructure is the backbone of the nation’s progress,” the President said, noting that giving Ghana’s busiest Motorway a facelift was fundamental to accelerated socio-economic advancement.

The Accra-Tema Motorway has served as a vital artery for the nation’s development for nearly six decades, linking the industrial city to the other parts of the country and West African sub-Region.

The Tema Motorway Roundabout Phase II project commenced in July 2022, aiming to enhance urban mobility, logistics and trade integration in the Greater Accra Region, as well as the West African economic bloc, ECOWAS.

Following a preparatory survey by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, the Phase One converted the roundabout into a two-tier intersection and was completed ahead of schedule in June 2020.

The second phase involved the construction of a third-tier flyover to alleviate the traffic burden at the intersection.

The entire Motorway rehabilitation project’s scope includes the rehabilitation of three critical sections: the Accra-Tema Motorway, the George Walker Bush Highway and the Nsawam Road.

The construction of both phase One and Phase II were funded by a Japanese grant of 91 million dollars.

President Nana Akufo-Addo indicated that the objective was to remove bottlenecks on the major highways to facilitate regional trade and economic integration.

“These projects are part of a deliberate policy to decentralise economic opportunities and ensure equitable development across the nation.

“From the Pokuase Interchange, the largest in West Africa, to the Tamale Interchange, the first of its kind in northern Ghana, we have worked tirelessly to open up our country, reduce disparities, and empower communities,” he emphasised.

The Government, the President said, had laid the foundation for a resilient economically vibrant and inclusive Ghana, touting his administration’s successes in education, healthcare, amongst others.

The World Bank, in a 2023 report, said rapid increases in population and vehicle ownership had led to unsustainable commuting times and deteriorating air quality in most developing countries.

“The impacts of highway construction are procompetitive in both output and input markets, increasing labour’s share of income by about 1.8 to 2.3 percentage points,” according to the global apex financial body.

It added that urban transportation systems played a key role in shaping the growth and development of cities.

Mr. Francis Asenso-Boakye, Minister of Roads and Highways, lauded the Japanese Government for its support in completing the project.

He assured the public that the government was committed to improving the road conditions linking the Tema Motorway Interchange, including the Tema Aflao road

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December 2, 2024
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Commit to peaceful and fair elections- Akufo-Addo tells Ghanaians

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged Ghanaians to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair electoral process ahead of the country’s Presidential and Parliamentary elections on December 7, 2024.

The President emphasized the importance of embracing democratic principles as Ghana prepared for its ninth consecutive democratic election.

He made the appeal during a Thanksgiving Service at the Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral in Accra, marking the start of his three-day thank-you tour of the Greater Accra Region. The tour, the last of his nationwide journey, is to express gratitude to the chiefs and people of the Greater Accra region for their trust and support of his administration.

President Akufo-Addo said that while the Electoral Commission had put in place the necessary security arrangements and measures to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections, the full cooperation of all Ghanaians was crucial to maintaining the peace and stability of the country.

“Across the world, when people speak about Africa and democracy, the country that they refer to as the country which is the beacon of democratic governance on our continent, they talk about Ghana and on Saturday we’re going to get another opportunity, the ninth successive opportunity we have to demonstrate to the world that indeed we understand what democratic government is about,” he emphasised.

The President noted that elections had become a key feature of the country’s governance system, where every few years, the people are given the opportunity to choose their leaders.

“On Saturday, we are going to get another opportunity, the ninth successive opportunity we have to demonstrate to the world that, indeed, we understand what democratic government is about, that every few years, the people are given the opportunity to decide who will rule and govern them in their name.

“So, that is going to happen again this Saturday. I am appealing to all of you, the Electoral Commission, Security Services, and the government, and have all made arrangements to make sure that everything goes peacefully and properly.

“I am appealing to you to make sure that what happens here next Saturday is indeed peaceful, free, and fair so that at the end of the day on Saturday, all of us will agree that X, you know my X, that X is the one we have all agreed to be our next President,” he said.

President Akufo-Addo also took the opportunity to thank the people of Ghana for granting him the privilege to serve as their president, an eigth-year tenure, which he described as significant honour.

He offered blessings to the nation, wishing continued peace and prosperity.

“I want to say once again that I am really, really grateful. My family and myself, my wife Rebecca, who is also another Anglican, my brother, all of us are members of the Anglican faith, are overwhelmed by the love, the affection and the honour that you have done me by making me president of the country. I was also very lucky,” he said.

Delivering her sermon, the officiating minister, Reverend Dr. Gifty Adiko, urged Ghanaians not to lose hope but to continue praying.

She reminded the congregation that there was always light at the end of the darkness, and no matter how difficult the situation seemed, Christians must keep their faith and not give up.

The tour, which also aimed to garner support for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, who is also the Vice President, saw the President engage with traditional leaders of the Ga State and party supporters.

He appealed to the people of Odododiodio, where he met with the chiefs at the James Town Fishing Harbour, urging them to vote overwhelmingly for the NPP to ensure the continuation of the party’s positive work.

Source: GNA

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December 2, 2024
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Special voting underway in 14 regions

Hundreds of security personnel, emergency service staff and Electoral Commission officials among others are taking part in the special voting exercise in 14 out of 16 regions.

The two other regions, Eastern and Western will have their special voting on Thursday, December 5, following a ballot paper mishap that has compelled the Electoral Commission to order a recall and a reprinting of ballot papers for the two regions.

Reports say various constituencies, the voting largely started on time at 7:00 am with initial queues at some centres.

However, as the day goes by, the queues have reduced as just a little over 130,000 voters are expected to cast their ballots.

In all, voting will take place in 328 centres nationwide, with 131,478 eligible voters representing 0.007% of the total voter population of 18.7 million.

The polls will run from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

In the Adentan constituency in the Greater Accra Region where 1,202 registered voters are expected to vote, voting commenced at 7:02 am with nearly 50 people already in a queue to cast their ballot.

In the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency also in Greater Accra, voting was underway without any issues. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate, actor John Dumelo, who was at the scene to observe the process with hopes of getting at least 60% of the votes in the special voting.

The incumbent MP of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Lydia Alhassan was also at the centre to observe the exercise.

Meanwhile, in the Offinso North constituency in the Ashanti Region, as of 9:00 am, voting had not started.

According to the Electoral Commission officials at the centre, the voter’s register wasn’t among the materials brought to them on Sunday.

They had thus sent for the register from Kumasi to be able to start the exercise at the centre where 566 persons are expected to cast their vote.

In the Sunyani East Constituency in the Bono Region, 1,137 are expected to cast their votes at two polling centers at the Bono Regional Police Headquarters in Sunyani.

According to the Presiding Officer for Center A, Jona Seli, the exercise which started at 7:00 am has been smooth so far.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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November 27, 2024
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Otto Addo’s future remains undecided, GFA to consult more

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) remains deadlocked over the future of Black Stars head coach Otto Addo, following its Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, 27 November 2024, JoySports can exclusively report.

The football governing body’s powerful decision-making team has opted to engage in further consultations, including the opinions of politicians before making a decision on the fate of the former Borussia Dortmund assistant coach.

During its meeting last Wednesday, the GFA was divided over Addo’s future after he failed to qualify the Black Stars for the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Some members of the Executive Council argued that his failure to meet his Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) warranted his dismissal.

However, others contended that the constant changes in coaching personnel have not improved the country’s fortunes and that parting ways with Addo would make little financial sense, given that former Black Stars coaches CK Akonnor and Chris Hughton are still owed severance packages.

GFA President Kurt Okraku and his team had hoped to reach a consensus today, but the Executive Council remained divided despite prior consultations earlier this week.

JoySports sources indicate that the consultative engagements initially leaned in favour of retaining Otto Addo as head coach for next year’s World Cup qualifiers. However, a broader range of consultations is required before a final decision is made.

Addo has started the qualifiers with two wins against Mali and the Central African Republic.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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November 27, 2024
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DBG, AGI collaborate to revitalise Ghana’s textiles and garments industry

Development Bank Ghana (DBG) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) as part of its mandate to accelerate the growth of key sectors of Ghana’s economy.

The collaboration aims to strengthen the textiles and garments industry by supporting local businesses to scale production, improve competitiveness, and create jobs.

Per the agreement, DBG will partner with AGI to implement a three-year initiative that provides technical support, financial resources, and market development assistance to selected textile, garment, and fintech companies.

The initiative will help address key industry challenges, such as high production costs, limited skilled labour, and access to long-term financing.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of DBG, Kwamina Bentsi Enchill Duker, said the commitment of his outfit towards the textiles and garments industry aligns with our strategic focus on manufacturing as a priority sector for development.

“This collaboration with AGI provides an opportunity to support the sector’s growth, leveraging global trade opportunities such as AfCFTA and AGOA. Our combined efforts will help local businesses overcome barriers, increase production capacity, and tap into new markets, ultimately strengthening Ghana’s economy,” he added.

He announced that DBG will invest an initial GHC566,200.00 in dedicated financial support to AGI to execute a range of activities during the program.

These activities include identifying at least three investable projects within the textile and apparel value chain, technical assistance, market development, capacity-building sessions, and regular monitoring and evaluation to assess the intervention’s impact.

Mr Kwamina Duker further announced that DBG, in collaboration with Partner Financial Institutions (PFIs) and Development Partners (DPs) aims to invest at least GHC100 million annually through long-term financing over the next three years in Ghana’s textile and garments industry.

Additionally, through its Guarantee subsidiary, DBG Guarantee (DBGG), DBG seeks to catalyse and unlock significant financing for the sector by providing partial credit guarantees, enabling businesses to invest in growth and expand their operations.

In his address, Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke, President of AGI, intimated that by facilitating access to funding and critical technical resources, DBG is addressing the unique challenges faced by local textile and garment companies.

“This partnership will empower businesses to improve their operational efficiency, create jobs, and gain access to both local and international markets,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Prof. Eric Osei-Assibey, Chief Economist Designate at DBG, said the textile and garment sector has immense potential to contribute significantly to Ghana’s economic growth.

“Through this partnership with AGI, DBG is committed to bridging the financial and technical gaps that have hindered the sector’s growth,” he said.

He further pointed out that the industry has opportunities to transition towards sustainable manufacturing and circularity, particularly in recycling textile waste and adopting eco-friendly production practices.

“Therefore, emphasis will be placed on integrating sustainable practices, ensuring that the sector grows responsibly and contributes to environmental preservation,” Prof.Osei-Assibey said.

The programme is expected to enhance beneficiary companies’ competitiveness and operational efficiency, drive job creation and economic empowerment within the textile and garment sector and expand market linkages, boosting Ghana’s export potential.

The partnership between DBG and AGI is a vital step towards revitalising the textiles and garments industry, paving the way for long-term economic growth and sustainability.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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November 27, 2024
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Herbert Krapa: 50% of Ghanaians to adopt LPG for cooking by 2030

The Ministry of Energy has assured the public that all challenges delaying the full implementation of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) are being addressed with input from key stakeholders.

According to the sector minister, Herbert Krapa, the CRM is set to be effectively rolled out in 2025.

The CRM is a distribution system where consumers exchange their empty LPG cylinders for filled ones at designated vending points.

The empty cylinders are then transported to bottling plants, refilled, and made available for other consumers.

Interacting woth the media on the sidelines of the 2024 Women in Energy Outreach Programme, Mr. Krapa expressed optimism that by 2030, 50 percent of Ghanaians would have access to and use LPG as a primary energy source.

“The recirculation model is going well. We have had some initial concerns from stakeholders. We have broadened and deepened the stakeholder consultation. We expect that, starting next year, we will see a more aggressive rollout of the model.

“In 2030, we should have 50 percent of the Ghanaian people using cylinders as a source of cooking rather than firewood. And it is an ambitious programme, but we believe that we have the capacity to roll it out, and we call on all stakeholders to give us the needed support,” he said.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 27, 2024
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Alan vows to review constitution to reduce presidential powers

Alan Kyerematen has pledged to reduce the excessive powers granted to the President under Ghana’s Constitution, describing them as unacceptable.

A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra said he was speaking during the Presidential Encounters organized by the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC).

It said he emphasized his determination to bring about change. “Yes, I am contesting to become president, but I intend to review the Constitution to reduce the powers of the president before I become the president,” he declared.

As part of his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), Mr. Kyerematen outlined far-reaching reforms aimed at decentralizing governance, limiting presidential influence, and creating a more balanced system of power.

At the heart of his governance reforms is the establishment of a Second Chamber of Parliament. This body will comprise representatives from traditional authorities, religious leaders, youth groups, women, the business community, labor unions, and other stakeholders.

Its mandate will include approving nominations for key positions such as the Chief Justice, the Electoral Commissioner, and heads of security agencies.

Mr. Kyerematen argued that allowing the President to directly appoint these figures compromises their independence.

“How can you expect complete freedom for these institutions when their heads are appointed by the President? This system must change to reflect true democracy,” he noted.

Alan Kyerematen also reiterated his zero-tolerance policy on corruption, beginning with leadership by example. He plans to consolidate anti-corruption legislation and establish an independent anti-corruption body with prosecutorial authority entirely separate from the Attorney General’s Office.

To ensure the body’s autonomy, he proposed that an anti-corruption Czar be appointed by the Second Chamber of Parliament, not the President.

“The anti-corruption Czar must derive their authority from the Constitution, not the presidency,” he stressed.

He criticized the overlap between the Attorney General and anti-corruption agencies, adding, “It is improper for the Attorney General to oversee the work of the anti-corruption Czar, as it compromises the independence of the office. This must change to ensure accountability at all levels.”

Mr. Kyerematen accused the NDC and NPP of perpetuating corruption, stating, “Corruption remains rife because the NDC and NPP governments are not genuinely interested in fighting it. They have created a system where corruption fuels their political machinery, leaving the nation to suffer the consequences.”

On the galamsey menace, Mr. Kyerematen accused both the NDC and NPP of having vested interests that prevent decisive action. “Both parties have shown no commitment to ending galamsey because they have benefitted directly or indirectly from this illegal activity,” he charged.

He pledged to reform Article 257 of the Constitution to make traditional authorities co-trustees of natural resources. He explained, “It is illogical for the Minerals Commission to grant mining licenses without consulting chiefs, who are custodians of the land.”

Mr. Kyerematen also committed to addressing inequities in compensation under Article 71, which grants significant retirement benefits to a select group of public officials.

He criticized the disparity, stating, “How can we justify these benefits when teachers, health workers, and others who serve for decades retire on paltry pensions? This is unacceptable, and my government will review these provisions to ensure fairness.”

Mr. Kyerematen underscored the need for constitutional reforms to combat entrenched corruption and strengthen democratic governance. These changes, coupled with his anti-corruption and decentralization agenda, aim to create a more inclusive governance structure, according to him.

He concluded, “I do not seek the presidency to hoard power but to share it with the people and institutions that will strengthen our democracy.”

Alan Kyerematen’s vision, grounded in his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), seeks to address systemic challenges and build a fairer, more accountable government.

Source: GNA

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November 27, 2024
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Police establish GHC20,000 informant system ahead of December polls

The National Election Security Taskforce has introduced a financial reward system to encourage the public to report potential security threats ahead of the upcoming elections.

Under the initiative, informants can share relevant information with the police or other security agencies and receive rewards ranging from GH¢1,000 to GH¢20,000.

Reports can be made via the toll-free hotline 0800-311-311.

The Inspector General of Police and head of the National Election Security Taskforce, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, announced the initiative during a meeting with the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) on Wednesday, November 27.

Dr. Dampare emphasized that the programme aims to bolster election security by encouraging public participation in safeguarding the process.

“We are introducing the informant reward system, and the figure involved is between GH¢1,000 and GH¢20,000. You bring the information, we operationalise it, and if the results are good, we tell you how much you will be given and you tell us the means through which you will want it, and we send it to you.

“For that matter, we have introduced a toll-free number for that purpose, and anybody who will want to share information with us and that toll-free number is 0800-311-311.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 27, 2024
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The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has stated that the House cannot reconvene ahead of the December elections.

This response comes after the Majority Caucus appealed for an emergency recall to address pressing government business.

In a letter dated November 22, 2024, and signed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus proposed November 28 and 29 as potential dates for the session.

However, the Speaker maintained that parliamentary activities will remain on hold until after the general elections.

Bagbin, in a memo to the majority on Tuesday noted that “The House will resume sitting after the elections to complete all essential matters before a seamless transition to the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.”

“The national interest would better be served if members exhibit conduct of honour, empathy, and humility in the performance of their duties. In the circumstances, I am neither inclined nor disposed to exercise my discretion in favour of your request. The request is accordingly declined.”

The Speaker told Afenyo-Markin that he was aware the parliamentary calendar acknowledged election campaign periods.

“This season is for the government, parties, and both presidential and parliamentary candidates to present their manifestoes to the people and to account and justify the mandate given them by the voters for the four-year term of office has been applied to the benefit of the people,” he added.

The Minority Caucus in Parliament urged the Speaker to dismiss a request from the Majority Caucus for the recall of the House.

The Minority Caucus, led by its leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, countered this recall attempt in a memo on Monday. Addressed to Speaker Bagbin, the Minority’s response challenged the legitimacy and procedural compliance of the Majority’s request.

Dr. Ato Forson argued that the recall does not meet “the threshold and requirement under Article 112 (3) of the Constitution and Order 53(1) of the Standing Orders which require signatures of 15 percent of members of Parliament to trigger a recall of Parliament.”

Beyond the procedural arguments, the Minority raised concerns about the timing and necessity of the proposed recall.

They labelled the recall request as an “ill-fated and ill-timed recall. Should this request be granted, not only will members of Parliament be required to truncate their important engagements with the electorate, but members will have to contend with logistical and other challenges to commute over long distances, difficult and hard-to-reach constituencies to Accra.”

The Minority also questioned the urgency of the recall, arguing that the petitioner, the Majority Caucus, has not demonstrated any pressing national emergency or critical government business that necessitates such action.

The Minority urged the Speaker to uphold the principles of fairness and propriety in his decision, warning that granting the recall would set a precedent for future abuses of parliamentary processes.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 27, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Bawumia is Ghana’s good, faithful servant- Ahiagbah

The Director of Communications of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Richard Ahiagbah, has likened the Vice-President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to the “good and faithful servant” in the biblical parable of the bags of gold, urging Ghanaians to reward his stewardship with a resounding victory in the 2024 general elections.

Speaking at a press briefing at the NPP headquarters in Asylum Down, Accra, yesterday, Mr. Ahiagbah drew inspiration from Matthew 25:14-30, a parable about accountability, diligence and reward for good stewardship.

“Like the first two servants in the parable who doubled their entrusted gold, Dr. Bawumia has maximized every opportunity and responsibility given to him, delivering transformative results for Ghana,” Mr. Ahiagbah stated.

He praised Dr. Bawumia’s leadership in spearheading significant reforms in digital transformation, economic governance and public sector modernization, asserting that these achievements aligned with the scriptural values of diligence and reward for good work.

Mr. Ahiagbah cited the key passage from the parable: “For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

He stressed that the parable underscored the necessity for leaders to be accountable and proactive, qualities he attributed to Dr. Bawumia’s tenure as Vice-President.

“In Dr. Bawumia, we see a leader who has been entrusted with Ghana’s resources and has delivered tangible, impactful results,” Mr. Ahiagbah noted. “It is time for Ghanaians to reward this good and faithful servant with the presidency,” he added.

Contrasting Dr. Bawumia’s record with that of former President John Dramani Mahama, Mr. Ahiagbah labeled the latter as a “wicked and lazy servant,” referencing the biblical character who failed to utilize his entrusted gold.

“John Mahama’s presidency was marked by mismanagement and a lack of accountability. His infamous declaration that no amount of demonstrations would move him — likening himself to a dead goat — is a testament to his inability to address the challenges faced by Ghanaians,” Mr. Ahiagbah said.

He further criticized Mr. Mahama’s leadership between 2013 and 2016, citing poor economic performance and alleged complacency in addressing pressing national issues.

“Ghanaians made their judgment in 2016 and reaffirmed it in 2020 by voting him out. In 2024, we must deliver a decisive landslide to retire him from politics permanently,” Mr. Ahiagbah declared.

Mr. Ahiagbah, therefore, appealed to voters to support Dr. Bawumia and the NPP parliamentary candidates in the December 7 elections.

“As Ghanaians, we are the masters of our destiny. On December 7, let us make the wise decision to reward the good and faithful servant, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, by voting him into office,” he urged.

Mr. Ahiagbah also addressed the media and security personnel participating in the December 2 special voting exercise, encouraging them to cast their ballots in favour of the NPP to secure the country’s progress.

He added, “Let us protect our gains and chart a path to make Ghana competitive in the future global economy. The time to act is now.”

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November 27, 2024
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4 minutes Read

Bawumia launches electric buses

The Vice-President and NPP Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has inaugurated Ghana’s first fleet of electric buses, signalling a transformative shift in the nation’s public transportation system.

The buses, which operate via electric charging systems instead of fuel, are expected to significantly reduce transportation costs while offering a cleaner alternative for urban mobility.

Speaking during the launch in Accra yesterday, Dr. Bawumia described the introduction of the buses as a historic moment that embodied a “mindset of possibility”, and aligned Ghana with global best practices in sustainability and innovation.

Dr. Bawumia stated: “Today, we are making history with the commissioning of these electric buses. It represents a visionary shift in how we approach public transport. Today, we are taking a definitive step towards revolutionising the transport sector with sustainability and innovation at its core”.

He also highlighted the environmental benefits, noting, “The use of fossil fuel-powered vehicles, its impact on climate change and air pollution, are no longer distant threats but urgent realities that demand immediate action.”

Dr. Bawumia emphasised the financial relief the electric buses would provide for both operators and passengers. With operational costs estimated to be 50 percent lower than those of diesel-powered buses, the initiative is expected to make public transport more affordable.

“The economic benefits of using electric buses cannot be overemphasised. Electric buses offer lower operating and maintenance costs compared to conventional diesel buses. This will translate into more efficient resource use, lower transport fares, and enable Metro Mass to invest in fleet renewal and expansion,” he explained.

He explained that the initial phase of the electric bus rollout would service the Adenta–Accra and Ashaiman–Accra routes. Next year, the programme would expand, with additional buses set to serve other parts of the country.

Dr. Bawumia addressed scepticism surrounding the project, stating, “As usual, many said it was not possible. They said it was an election promise that would not be fulfilled. But that has been their mindset of impossibilities over the past 8 years. If other countries could deploy electric buses, why not Ghana?

Dr. Bawumia said it was no longer a secret that “we urgently need to improve the quality of our public transport services”.

Starting with the public transport operators such as GPRTU and the trotro sub-sector, he promised to work closely with the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) to embark on a Fleet Renewal Programme through the deployment of E-Vehicle.

This, he indicated, would be achieved through an improved public transport regulatory system, enabling the government to acquire the necessary regulatory data to support a fleet renewal credit scheme.

“Now, the Ministry of Transport is undertaking nationwide dissemination of the National Electric Vehicle Policy to create the needed awareness and build support for its successful implementation,” he stated.

The NPP flagbearer stressed that the primary reason the local taxi vehicles and trotros were often old vehicles was the difficulty in repaying loans for new, expensive vehicles when used for operations. “A good way to resolve this issue is to leverage the Tap N Go system. This system will help local drivers conduct their transactions digitally, building their credit to obtain new vehicles on favourable credit terms,” he added.

He said it was crucial for “us to intensify our digitalization efforts, providing lending comfort to all potential investors through our digitalized operations”.

“Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, while today’s event is a cause for celebration, it is also a reminder that our journey is far from over. The commissioning of these buses is the beginning of a broader strategy to modernize and decarbonize the transport sector. I envision a future where electric vehicles are the standard, with modern technology playing a key part in it,” he said.

Dr. Bawumia noted that this vision would require “us to be innovative in our approach to problem-solving and collaborate to build a seamless transportation system where one Tap n’ Go card can be used on all public transport vehicles, including our railway system”.

He added: “The road ahead will require the active participation of all and sundry, especially transport service providers. It will also require cultural and behavioural shifts that embrace sustainability. Government will, therefore, continue to seek partnerships, leverage on the collective experience of stakeholders to develop our nation”.

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November 20, 2024
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2 minutes Read

GRA intercepts 40-foot container of ammunition at Tema Port

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority has seized 53 pistols [side arms], 65 pieces of live ammunition, 74 magazines and a PC hoster at the Golden Jubilee Terminal at the Tema Port.

The suspects were arrested, and subsequently transferred to the Marine and Railway Police Station, Tema for further investigations.

Speaking to journalists yesterday, the Commissioner of Customs, Brigadier Zibrim Ayorrogo, said the items were intercepted on Monday, November, 4.

He stated that the 40-foot container with the number MEDU4496951 was declared to contain vehicles and personal effects, and arrived at the Tema Port. The weapons were imported from the United States of America.

“On Friday, 15 November 2024, during a routine examination of the container by Customs officers in the presence of the declarant/agent and the importer representative at the Golden Jubilee Terminal, the Customs examination team discovered 53 side arms (pistols), 74 Magazines,
and 65 live Ammunitions concealed in three different suitcases.

“The Customs examination team immediately notified the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) Intelligence and Investigations Unit, and the Preventive Unit of the Customs Division of the incident.

“Upon notification, personnel of the GRA Intelligence and Investigations Unit, and the Customs Preventive Unit arrived at the scene and confirmed the Fifty- Three (53) side arms (pistols), Seventy-Four (74) Magazines, and Sixty-Five (65) Live Ammunitions concealed in three different suitcases.

“The firearms, magazines and live ammunition were seized. Additionally, all other items in the container were thoroughly examined and detained for further investigation.

“Also, the agent and the consignee’s representative were arrested and interrogated on the seized items. The suspects were subsequently transferred to the Marine and Railway Police Station, Tema for further investigations,” he disclosed.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 20, 2024
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4 minutes Read

BoG new headquarters commissioned

President Nana Akufo-Addo has commissioned the Bank Square, the new headquarters of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), a state-of-the-art facility designed to symbolise financial strength and modernity.

Delivering the keynote address yesterday in Accra, he noted the importance of the Bank Square describing the facility as a symbol of financial innovation, stability, and sustainability.

“The commissioning of the Bank Square is a testament to the Bank’s vision, maturity, and enduring relevance. This architectural masterpiece not only stands as a symbol of financial strength and stability, but also reflects Ghana’s commitment to modernizing her institutions to meet the demands of a fast-changing world.The journey to this new edifice was born out of necessity and foresight,” he said.

“The Bank Square is a declaration of intent. It embodies the resilience of our institutions and the aspirations of our people. Beyond its aesthetic grandeur, it represents a hub for financial innovation, a center for collaboration among policymakers, industry leaders, and experts, and a landmark that underscores our commitment to a sustainable future. Its eco-friendly design and cutting-edge technologies serve as reminders of our duty to future generations to build responsibly and sustainably,” he added.

President Nana Akufo-Addo highlighted BoG’s pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic landscape.

“The Bank of Ghana has been an enduring symbol of our nation’s economic independence and resilience. Over the decades, the Bank has played a pivotal role in the evolution of our economy, serving as the bedrock of monetary stability and financial regulation. It has provided the necessary framework for the pursuit of macroeconomic stability, enabling the realization of our collective aspirations for socioeconomic progress,” the President said.

Additionally, President Akufo-Addo told the high-level delegates of Ghana’s economic progress, with data from BoG which points to a picture of resilience and recovery.

The country recorded a provisional GDP growth of 6.9% in the second quarter of 2024, driven by robust performance in construction, industry, agriculture, and tourism. Non-oil GDP growth stood at an impressive 7 percent, signalling the dynamism of Ghana’s economy.

“Indicators of economic activity, such as construction, industry, agriculture, consumer demand, and tourism, show encouraging signs of continued improvement. Inflation, which stood at a staggering 54.1% in 2022, has been reduced sharply to 22.1% as of October 2024, reflecting the effectiveness of the Bank of Ghana’s monetary policy interventions,” he said.

“There is every indication that the downward trend in the rate of inflation will continue, evidenced in the reducing prices of foodstuffs and petroleum products. This stabilization has renewed confidence among households and businesses, reinforcing a sense of optimism for the future. On the external front, Ghana’s trade surplus now stands at an impressive US$2.78 billion, with gold and crude oil exports leading the way,” he added.

President Akufo-Addo continued “our international reserves, at US$7.5 billion, provide critical buffers against external shocks, further demonstrating the prudent stewardship of the Bank of Ghana in navigating global uncertainties. These achievements are a reflection of the Bank’s unalloyed commitment to sound monetary and financial policies.”

President Akufo-Addo commended the leadership of the Bank of Ghana Governor Dr Ernest Addison and his deputies, Maxwell Opoku-Afari and Elsie Awadzi, for their dedication to sound monetary policies and financial stability.

He also lauded the architects, engineers, and contractors who contributed to the successful completion of the Bank Square project.

The President called on Ghanaians to view the Bank Square as a reminder of the importance of visionary leadership, sound governance, and collective responsibility.

The Bank Square, constructed by Ghanaian firm Berock Ventures Limited, represents the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to modernising its operations to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving financial sector.

The eco-friendly complex incorporates cutting-edge technologies and sustainable design principles, reflecting the central bank’s vision for a secure and dynamic financial future.

Clad in durable stone, the building symbolizes permanence and resilience, much like ancient monuments that have withstood the test of time.

Standing at 100 meters, it is not only the tallest building in Ghana, but also the most sustainable edge advanced structure of its size in the country and in the sub-region. This landmark complex is entirely powered by its own harvested solar energy, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious civic and public buildings across Africa.

Together, the four buildings will accommodate over 2,500 staff and alongside offices and public banking facilities, there is a currency museum, conference and press amenities, 1,500 seat auditorium and rooftop terraces.

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November 20, 2024
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3 minutes Read

President swears in five new envoys

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has sworn in five new ambassadors at the Jubilee House in Accra.

The new envoys, all seasoned diplomats, include Mrs. Matilda Aku Alomatu Osei-Agyeman (Ambassador to Austria), Ms. Vivian Kafui Akua Asempapa (Ambassador to Senegal), Mrs. Regina Appiah-Sam (Ambassador to Spain), Mr. McArios Akanbeanab Akanbong (Ambassador to Iran), and Dr. Senalor Kwabla Yawlui (Ambassador to Sierra Leone).

In his remarks, President Akufo-Addo emphasized that their appointments were critical to Ghana’s diplomatic efforts, especially during challenging global circumstances.

He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war had underscored the need for international cooperation and diplomatic engagement.

“Your postings have come at a critical juncture in global affairs and Ghana’s development journey,” the President stated.

The President called on the envoys to promote Ghana’s economic revitalization programme, the Ghana CARES ‘Obaatanpa’ initiative, which focuses on sectors like agriculture, ICT, and job creation.

He urged them to attract foreign investments aligned with these objectives and to contribute to the nation’s sustainable growth.

Reflecting on Ghana’s recent diplomatic achievements, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the country’s full membership in La Francophonie and the election of Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

These milestones, he said, reinforced Ghana’s role as a diplomatic bridge between Anglophone and Francophone nations in Africa.

The President also reminded the ambassadors of their dual responsibilities: to represent Ghana’s interests abroad and to engage with the diaspora in contributing to national development.

He urged them to work closely with Foreign Service officers, whom he described as “the backbone of Ghana’s diplomatic missions,” and stressed the importance of diplomacy as a tool for building bridges and fostering international partnerships.

President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections in December, underscoring the importance of maintaining Ghana’s democratic credentials.

He urged the envoys to uphold the values of peace, integrity, and democratic governance in their missions abroad.

“You are the face of Ghana to the world. Carry out your duties with professionalism and integrity, and let your efforts bring honour to our nation,” he said.

Ambassador Vivian Asempapa, speaking on behalf of her colleagues, expressed gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for the appointments and the trust placed in them.

She assured the President that they would work diligently to enhance Ghana’s active role in international affairs and advocate for the country’s interests.

“Mr. President, we accept your charge, which we pledge to fulfill with dignity, integrity, and diligence,” she stated.

“Guided by the vision of our forebears, we commit to upholding and defending the principles of democracy, unity, and progress that have always defined our nation,” she added.

Source: GNA

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November 20, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Ghana’s security infrastructure remains robust

The Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah, has reaffirmed that Ghana’s security infrastructure remains robust and acts as a strong deterrent against non-state actors, emphasizing that operational efficiency and vigilance are crucial in addressing security threats.

Addressing recent rumors, he firmly rejected allegations of agreements between the government and terrorist groups.

He made this remark when he visited the Ghanaian contingent serving in the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), also known as GHANCOY 3.

The visit was scheduled alongside three significant events: the 51st Independence Day celebrations of Guinea-Bissau, the Centenary of the birth of Amílcar Cabral, and the 60th Anniversary of the Guinea-Bissau Armed Forces.

Accompanied by the Chief Director and the Director of Intelligence Analysis at the Ministry, the Minister’s visit aimed to assess the operational, administrative, and logistical readiness of the Ghanaian troops while boosting their morale.

Lieutenant Colonel Gabriel Mawuli Agboado, the Combat Team Commander, and his staff officers provided a thorough briefing on the unit’s activities and expressed appreciation for the continuous support from the Ministry of National Security.

In his address, Mr Kan-Dapaah commended the Ghanaian troops for their discipline and dedication to their mission under the ECOWAS mandate.

He highlighted their critical role in ensuring peace and stability in the region, underlining the importance of their contributions to safeguarding Ghana’s national security.

The Minister acknowledged the growing challenges faced by security forces, particularly the increasing frequency of attacks on security personnel, and praised the troops for their resilience and commitment.

One key point raised by the Minister was the government’s commitment to improving the compensation for security and intelligence officers. He assured the troops that steps were being taken to enhance their remuneration before the end of President Akufo-Addo’s term in January 2024, in recognition of their sacrifices and service to the nation.

Hon. Kan-Dapaah also emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring a free and fair electoral process in the upcoming December 2024 elections. He commended the Electoral Commission for its transparency efforts and urged continued cooperation between the police and military to ensure a peaceful and incident-free election.

Reflecting on his previous role as Minister of Defence, Mr Kan-Dapaah expressed deep admiration for the professionalism and discipline of the military. He concluded by reaffirming the government’s support for the Ghanaian contingent as they continue their vital mission in Guinea-Bissau.

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November 20, 2024
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4 minutes Read

NPP confident of victory in presidential and parliamentary elections – Nana B

With just 17 days to the crucial December 7 general elections, the National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, has expressed confidence in his party’s prospects.

Addressing the press at the party’s headquarters at Asylum Down on Wednesday, 20th November, 2024, he stated emphatically that all indicators from across the country point to an NPP victory, both in the presidential race and with a clear majority in Parliament.

“We are winning the presidential election, and with a clear majority in Parliament. We see this, and the NDC knows it too. All that is required is for the Ghanaian people to turn out in large numbers on December 7 and cast their votes.”

Nana B highlighted that the electorate has critically assessed the records of the NPP and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), along with the respective candidates leading the charge.

“The people have compared our track record to that of the NDC. They have profiled our parliamentary candidates and those of the NDC. They have looked at Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s track record, his vision, and his integrity. And they have compared that to John Mahama—his record, his lack of vision, and the evidence of his lack of integrity,” he remarked.

He cited the growing appeal of Dr. Bawumia’s bold policy proposals, such as a 100% tax amnesty for businesses, a flat tax rate, a flat duty rate for imports, incentives for the tourism and mining industries, and targeted funding for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), women-owned enterprises, and FINTECH startups.

According to Nana B, these policies resonate with the youth and the business community, inspiring confidence in the mantra “Bawumia Means Business and Bawumia Is for Jobs.”

Nana B stressed the stakes in the upcoming elections, particularly in safeguarding landmark NPP initiatives like Free Senior High School (Free SHS) and Free TVET, which he described as “destiny-changing policies.’

“Parents, especially mothers, and the 5.7 million young Ghanaians who have benefited from Free SHS and Free TVET are worried about the fate of this policy under an NDC government. They know that in the hands of Dr. Bawumia and the NPP, Free SHS is safe,” he assured.

He also emphasized the continuity of health infrastructure under the NPP’s Agenda 111 project, which he noted had suffered setbacks under John Mahama’s tenure due to financial mismanagement. “They know that with Dr. Bawumia, Agenda 111 will be completed, and the NHIS, which effectively collapsed under John Mahama, will continue to grow,” Nana B added.

Highlighting infrastructure development, Nana B pointed out the comparative success of the NPP in road construction, stating that the party has delivered four times more roads in its eight years than the NDC achieved under Mahama’s leadership.

“From roads to hospitals, people see the difference. They know that by maintaining the NPP in office under our vibrant and proactive leader, Dr. Bawumia, their infrastructural needs will be met,” he asserted.

Nana B said Ghanaians have no desire to return to the governance of John Mahama, citing his alleged incompetence, corruption, and inability to address the country’s energy crisis during his tenure.

“Ghanaians remember Mahama in 2016—his corruption issues, bribery scandals, and, most of all, his failure to keep the lights on for 12 hours a day,” he stated. He added that voters are looking for certainty and accountability in governance, attributes they do not associate with the former president.

Nana B called on Ghanaians to remain united in their resolve to defend democracy. He encouraged them to vote massively for the NPP to ensure continuity and progress under Dr. Bawumia’s leadership.

“The NPP has done more work in these eight years than any other government in the Fourth Republic. The people are prepared to give Dr. Bawumia the opportunity to implement his ideas for the good of Ghana,” he said.

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November 20, 2024
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3 minutes Read

NDC plotting to disrupt December elections with vigilante groups

The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised serious allegations against the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing them of secretly recruiting members for a vigilante group aimed at disrupting the upcoming general elections.

The NPP claims the NDC plans to deploy a group known as the “Eagle Force” to create chaos at NPP polling stations on election day.

In a press briefing held at the party’s headquarters in Asylum Down yesterday, the NPP National Organizer, Henry Nana Boakye, alias Nana B, stated that the NDC was actively recruiting members from its affiliated small-scale mining groups.

According to Nana B, a covert meeting was held on November 11, 2024, at the Mawuli Hotel in Bidiem, Obuasi West Municipality, where the NDC’s Committee on Mining, led by Tony Aubynn, a former Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, coordinated the recruitment.

Nana B alleged that the goal of the meeting was to enlist members for the Eagle Force, which he claimed would be deployed to various NPP polling stations to incite violence and disrupt the electoral process.

“Let them be advised that this will not happen,” he declared, adding that the NPP had uncovered evidence of mobile money transactions linking NDC members to payments made to individuals being trained for this mission.

He further claimed that some of these individuals would be stationed in the Upper East and Upper West Regions to sow chaos. Nana B also accused the NDC of planning to use ambulances to transport weapons to these operatives on election day.

The NPP National Organizer went on to say that the NDC was planning to deploy thugs on motorbikes to shoot indiscriminately in NPP strongholds to instill fear, suppress voter turnout, and disrupt vote counting.

He also pointed to a retired Commissioner of Police as allegedly being involved in coordinating efforts to escalate insecurity, particularly in the Ashanti Region, a key NPP stronghold.

In addition, Nana B claimed that the NDC had been working with criminal elements to increase incidents of robbery and kidnapping in the days leading up to the elections. He assured Ghanaians, however, that the security forces were aware of these threats and would take appropriate action.

Despite the enactment of the Anti-Vigilantism Act, Nana B also highlighted the recent launch of the NDC’s vigilante group, the “Azoka Boys,” in the Asawase Constituency of the Ashanti Region.

These individuals, known for their violent history in previous elections, are allegedly tasked with intimidating voters to undermine confidence in the electoral process.

Nana B lamented that critical stakeholders, including the media, civil society organizations, and traditional authorities, had remained silent on this issue, which he argued emboldened the NDC’s dangerous plans.

The NPP assured the public that it would not sit idly by while the NDC sought to disrupt the election. Nana B called on the Inspector General of Police to arrest those involved in the Azoka Boys’ launch and urged state security agencies to be vigilant in preventing any acts of vigilantism or violence.

He further emphasized that the NPP would use all lawful means to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful election on December 7, 2024.

“The NPP remains a party of peace and democracy. No party has ever succeeded in using violence to win an election, and the NDC would do well to abandon these plans and focus on competing peacefully,” he said.

He urged Ghanaians to reject intimidation and violence and to stand firm in defending their democracy. “Let us show the world once again that Ghana is a shining example of peaceful and credible elections,” he said.

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November 19, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Vote to protect Free SHS- Bawumia urges Ghanaians

The Vice President and NPP Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has called on Ghanaians to safeguard the educational gains made by the current government by voting in support of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its candidates in the upcoming December 7 general elections.

Speaking through a statement read on his behalf by the Chief of Staff, Madam Akosua Frema Osei Opare, during the launch of the National Education Week 2024 in Accra, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need for voters to protect policies that have significantly contributed to the country’s educational transformation.

The week-long event, themed “The Education Transformation Agenda; Evidence from 2017,” brought together educational experts from around the globe to discuss Ghana’s educational progress, share best practices, and exchange ideas.

Dr. Bawumia highlighted that the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo-led government’s investments in education, particularly the landmark Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, had driven significant development in the sector.

The NPP flagbearer noted that since the introduction of the Free SHS initiative in 2017, the government had spent billions of cedis to ensure that all eligible students, regardless of their financial background, have access to secondary education. This, Dr. Bawumia noted, had led to increased enrollment, greater gender parity in schools, and improved outcomes in various disciplines.

“Since 2017, we have seen a remarkable transformation in the educational landscape of Ghana. Free Senior High School is one of the greatest successes of our government, and it is a policy we must protect,” Dr. Bawumia said. He urged the public to ensure that these educational gains are not rolled back by voting against any party or individual that seeks to cancel or undermine the policy.

Dr. Bawumia further cautioned voters to make their decisions based on sound judgment and the genuine welfare of the people, not on political propaganda. He also warned against politicians who, according to him, might focus solely on winning elections without a true commitment to the nation’s development. “We must not allow ourselves to be deceived by empty promises. This election is about securing the future of our children and the progress of this country,” he added.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, commended President Akufo-Addo for his leadership in advancing the country’s education agenda. Dr. Adutwum praised the Chief of Staff for her supportive role in his journey, both as Deputy Minister and later as Minister for Education. He affirmed his commitment to further developing the education sector and contributing to the nation’s overall progress.

“I pledge to continue working tirelessly to ensure that the educational reforms initiated by this government are consolidated and expanded. We are building an education system that will benefit generations to come,” Dr. Adutwum indicated.

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November 19, 2024
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2 minutes Read

UPSA immortalise NAPO’s name on hostel

The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has named a newly constructed hostel in honour of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, vice presidential candidate of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the 2024 elections. This gesture is a recognition of his transformative contributions to the educational sector in, particularly during his tenure as Minister of Education.

The ceremony, which took place on UPSA’s campus, was attended by a host of dignitaries, faculty members, students and representatives from various educational institutions. The event marked a significant moment in the university’s history as it celebrated Dr. Prempeh’s visionary leadership and his role in enhancing educational infrastructure across the country.

In his address, Dr. Kofi Ohene Konadu, Chairman of the UPSA University Council, lauded Dr. Prempeh’s invaluable support to the university. He specifically credited Dr. Prempeh with securing the funding and driving the construction of the state-of-the-art “Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh Hostel.”

“Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s tenure as Minister for Education was marked by a relentless commitment to expanding access to education and creating an enabling environment for learning. This hostel stands as a testament to his dedication to improving infrastructure for tertiary education,” Dr. Konadu stated.

The new hostel, which has the capacity to house over 5,000 students, aims to address accommodation challenges on campus. It is designed to provide a conducive environment for academic excellence, helping UPSA accommodate the growing number of students pursuing higher education.

The Vice Chancellor of UPSA, Professor Abednego Feehi Okoe Amartey, also commended Dr. Prempeh’s significant contributions to Ghana’s education sector. “Dr. Prempeh’s impact on Ghana’s education is indelible. From implementing the Free Senior High School policy to enhancing the infrastructure of institutions like ours, his leadership continues to transform lives. Naming this hostel after him is our way of immortalizing his contributions,” Professor Amartey said.

This honour comes three years after UPSA conferred on Dr. Prempeh an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in July 2021. The award celebrated his leadership and commitment to the advancement of education in Ghana.

In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Prempeh expressed his deep gratitude to UPSA for the recognition. “This honour is not just mine but for all who believe in the power of education to transform lives. I remain committed to supporting the growth of institutions like UPSA, which are pivotal to our national development,” he said.

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November 19, 2024
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4 minutes Read

Akufo-Addo commissions Flowerpot Interchange at Spintex

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo yesterday commissioned the Flowerpot Interchange at Spintex to alleviate the perennial traffic congestion in the nation’s capital as well as modernize its road network and improve urban mobility.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, President Akufo-Addo said the state-of-the-art infrastructure featured 802m of dual carriageway of the viaduct with asphaltic concreting surfacing, 140m of ramp constructed from Shiashie onto the viaduct towards Airport Hills, 80m of ramp constructed from the viaduct onto the motorway towards Tema and a new road through the old tunnel at East Legon.

He added that the infrastructure included a 100-car parking area under the viaduct in East Legon to support local activities, along with two beautifully designed roundabouts featuring fountains and public art. It also includes the redesign of the Flowerpot roundabout and its approaches, pedestrian walkways on each side of the flyover, road furniture (streetlights, road markings and traffic signals).

President Akufo-Addo stressed that the interchange was expected to significantly ease traffic flow in one of the city’s busiest corridors, reducing travel time for thousands of commuters and facilitating smoother connectivity between residential and commercial hubs.

He said the construction of the Interchange would ease movement for commuters from Cantoments, Burma Camp to East Legon, Spintex and Tema. President Akufo-Addo lauded the project as a demonstration of his government’s commitment to enhancing Ghana’s road infrastructure.

He emphasised that the construction of the interchange was part of a broader agenda to modernize the nation’s transportation systems, reduce vehicular emissions, and spur economic growth. He indicated that his administration had constructed more roads and interchanges than any other government in Ghana’s history.

“In Greater Accra Region alone, we have constructed the Pokuase Interchange, Tema Motorway Roundabout Interchange Phase 1, Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange Phase 1, the East Legon Underpass and today, this Flowerpot Interchange. Beyond Accra, we have also delivered the first ever interchange in the Eastern Region and Suhum and in the Northern Region, at Tamale.” he emphasised.

“This project is not merely the opening of a new infrastructure. It is the unveiling of a vision for Ghana’s future. One that is driven by a commitment to lasting progress, inclusivity and national pride. This interchange is a clear tangible example of our promise to ensure that every Ghanaian feels the positive impact of our governance,” the President added.

He urged the Ghanaian citizenry to consider the interchange as a legacy that would be handed down to generations to come. “The Flowerpot Interchange is a legacy for future generations. I call on the Ministry of Roads and Highways, the newly established National Roads Authority, traditional rulers, commuters and all Ghanaians to join hands in safeguarding this asset for future generations in ensuring that it serves its purpose for the long term,” he added.

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr. Francis Asenso-Boakye, stated that the interchange was equipped with modern traffic management systems and high-quality lighting to ensure its efficiency and safety. He also clarified the numerous benefits that the interchange will bring to Ghanaian road users.

“Beyond enhancing mobility, these facilities were strategically designed to support local businesses and generate employment opportunities. The Flowerpot Interchange will enable seamless connectivity between key areas—such as Osu, La, Cantonments, Tse Addo, East Airport, Ledzokuku, East Legon, Adjiringanor, Adentan, and Madina—thereby stimulating economic activities and providing safer routes for commuters.” he explained.

The Minister also reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring continuous improvement of road networks across the country. “I want to take this opportunity to reaffirm my Ministry’s commitment to improving the overall condition of roads across the country. Despite the challenges we face, we remain determined to achieve this goal. As you may be aware, certain key development partner-funded projects, including the Tema-Aflao Road, have faced unavoidable delays due to measures implemented under the debt exchange programme.” he added.

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November 19, 2024
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1 minute Read

Dampare pledges to deal ruthlessly with election troublemakers – Dampare

The Ghana Police Service has pledged to take firm action against individuals who incite violence before, during, and after the December elections.

The police stated that holding perpetrators accountable will act as a deterrent to others considering actions that could destabilize the country.

During an engagement with the Civic Forum Initiative at the Police Headquarters in Accra, on Tuesday, November 19, Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akufo-Dampare, emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to violence.

He assured that the police would enforce the law strictly to ensure peace throughout the electoral period.

“You should be rest assured, we will engage where we have to engage. We will deescalate where we want to deescalate but when we have to be ruthless in the enforcement of the law, within the context of the rule of law, we will stop at nothing.

“So, Ghanaians should be with us and bear with us, have our back for us to confront anybody who wants to take the peace of this country for granted.

“We hope and remain convinced that the campaigning period will also remain peaceful. We are now focusing on the D-Day and the post-D-Day,” he stated.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 19, 2024
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2 minutes Read

GCNet ¢4bn arbitration claim thrown out; tribunal awards $2.2m costs to Ghana

An international arbitration tribunal in London has dismissed the claims of Ghana Community Network Services Limited (GCNet) against Ghana, awarding Ghana $2,185,983.21 in legal fees.

This amount includes $1,744,050.42 for legal representation and $441,932.79 for expert witness fees, with simple interest at USD SOFR + 1% if unpaid within 30 days of the ruling.

GCNet filed for arbitration in June 2022, challenging the Government of Ghana’s termination of a service agreement for managing customs and trade systems at Ghanaian ports.

Under the agreement, GCNet charged users fees on import and export transactions.

The contract, initially signed in 2000, was extended multiple times by different Trade Ministers but without proper statutory approvals, violating Ghana’s procurement laws.

In 2020, the government terminated the agreement after a value-for-money assessment, offering compensation per the contract.

GCNet rejected this and sought over GH¢3.3 billion in damages, including claims for wrongful termination, government exemptions, and discounts granted to importers.

Ghana, represented by Attorney-General Godfred Dame, argued that the termination was lawful and that compensation should not exceed the $6 million cap specified in the agreement. The government maintained that GCNet’s claims for losses due to exemptions and discounts were baseless as the policies complied with Ghanaian law and global trade standards.

It also maintained that GCNet had waived its rights to seek damages from such policies by not contesting them earlier, and compound interest was inapplicable under Ghanaian law, and any awarded sum should attract simple interest only.

The tribunal unanimously ruled in favour of Ghana, determining that the termination of the agreement in April 2020 was lawful, GCNet waived its rights to claim damages from exemptions and discounts, and GCNet was entitled to $5.4 million for early termination, as stipulated in the agreement.

The tribunal further deemed GCNet the unsuccessful party and ordered it to pay Ghana’s legal costs.

This ruling is a major victory for Ghana, saving billions of cedis in potential liabilities while highlighting the importance of adhering to proper legal and contractual frameworks.

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November 18, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Cholera outbreak: Central region records 7 deaths, 47 confirmed and 720 suspected cases

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has recorded seven fatalities, 47 confirmed cases and 720 suspected instances of cholera in the Central Region since Thursday, October 31.

The occurrences have been reported in eight of the 22 Districts in the region including Awutu-Senya-East and West, Gomoa East, Mfantseman, Gomoa West, Agona West, Cape Coast and Twifo-Hemang-Lawyer- Denkyira.

While the gender of the deceased remained undisclosed, the fatalities were recorded in Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality, Assin North and South, and Gomoa West districts.

The Acting Regional Director of the GHS, Dr Agnes Achiama Anane disclosed this during a news briefing on the outbreak of cholera in the region on Monday, November 18.

She said the deaths were preventable, as four of the patients arrived late at health facilities in critical condition, while three were already deceased upon arrival.

The current situation has prompted urgent calls for preventive measures to check further transmission, emphasising the necessity for the public to adhere to hygienic protocols that were widely practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These measures include frequent hand washing, use of sanitisers, and meticulous handling of food and water, deemed crucial in curtailing the spread of the disease.

Dr Anane underscored the importance of seeking prompt medical attention at healthcare facilities when experiencing symptoms like acute diarrhoea and dehydration to reduce the likelihood of severe illness or fatality from cholera.

“Our primary concern has been the fatalities. The figures, yes, but a considerable number of them were brought in critically ill, signifying delayed care and attention, “she said.

Dr Anane further implored residents to uphold impeccable hygiene standards and prioritise nutritious dietary practices as they remained vigilant in keeping good environmental sanitation to avert the spread of the disease.

She said the clarion call is for a unified and concerted effort from neighbouring areas to effectively work to contain the disease.

Source: GNA

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November 18, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Chief of Staff comments on ‘expired’ rice scandal

The Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare has spoken about the unfolding scandal involving the alleged repackaged expired rice supplied to some Senior High Schools.

She described the issue as “untrue and propaganda” which should not be allowed in the education sector.

She made this comment during an interview with JoyNews‘ Prince Kudogah at the sidelines of the National Education Book launch on Monday, November 18.

“You know it is not true, so let us focus on things that move this country forward… propaganda and rumour-mongering have no place in education,” she said.

This follows allegations made by the Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who claimed that a total of 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were distributed to various SHSs across the country.

He alleged that the consignment was distributed through the Free Senior High School Secretariat in February this year.

The North Tongu legislator, who also serves as Chair of the Assurances Committee in Parliament, said his investigation, launched after a tip-off, revealed that the act was deliberate.

However, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ministry of Education, Kwasi Kwarteng, says the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has declared the rice, which was distributed to schools as wholesome for consumption.

Mr Kwarteng clarified that the rice had not expired, despite the MP’s continued claims. He explained that the FDA did not fine Lamens for distributing unwholesome food, but rather for failing to obtain FDA approval before repackaging the rice.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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November 18, 2024
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3 minutes Read

22,000 bags of alleged ‘expired’ rice were “wholesome” for consumption – Education Ministry

The Ministry of Education says the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has declared the 22,000 bags of supposed expired rice, which were distributed to secondary schools across the country as wholesome for consumption.

Last week, the Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, alleged that the Free Senior High School Secretariat had distributed 22,000 bags of 50kg of expired rice to various schools.

According to Mr Ablakwa, the rice had expired but was repackaged and distributed to the schools. He also noted that the FDA had fined Lamens, the company that allegedly repackaged the expired rice and sold it to the government an amount of GH₵100,000.

During a press briefing on Monday, November 18, the Minority in Parliament, led by Mr Ablakwa, called for the arrest of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Lamens and other directors of the company.

In an interview on Joy News after the press briefing by NDC MPs, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ministry of Education, Kwasi Kwarteng, clarified that the rice had not expired, despite the MP’s continued claims. He explained that the FDA did not fine Lamens for distributing unwholesome food, but rather for failing to obtain FDA approval before repackaging the rice.

“For the record, Lamens was fined for not getting authorisation for the repackaging of the food. It has nothing to do with the declaration of the wholesomeness of the food,” he said.

Mr Kwarteng further explained that the “best before” date on the rice was December 2023. However, the rice importers [Lamens] had requested an extension of the expiry date from the FDA but proceeded with repackaging before receiving approval.

According to the PRO, the FDA later fined the company for proceeding with the repackaging without the necessary permit.

He argued that the MP’s claim that expired food was distributed was unfounded, as the FDA did not declare the rice as expired at the time of repackaging.

“The FDA did not fine Lamens for unwholesome food. The best-before date was apparently extended, but what they were fined for was the fact that they didn’t get approval for the repackaging,” he said.

“Who would fine an agency just GH₵100,000 for supplying 22,000 bags of unwholesome food? Who, even in the Ministry of Education, would approve the distribution of 22,000 bags of unwholesome rice to schools across Ghana? Would the Minister of Education sit there and say that 22,000 bags of rice should be distributed to schools, knowing they were unwholesome, and we would all just sit there and clap over it?” he quizzed.

Mr Kwarteng then accused Mr Ablakwa of pursuing an “agenda to create a needless alarm.”

Source: myjoyonline.com

Sports

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November 18, 2024
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2 minutes Read

I won’t resign – Otto Addo

Black Stars Coach Otto Addo has firmly stated that he will not step down from his position, despite the team’s recent challenges, including a 2-1 defeat to Niger in their final Group F match.

Addressing calls for his resignation, Addo emphasized that he has come too far in his coaching journey to let the pressure influence his decision.

He made it clear that the criticism and demands for his departure would not sway him, asserting his commitment to leading the national team forward.

“I’m not the person who can resign. If I had done this, I’d never have become a player or even a coach. If you know where I have come from as a person to arrive at this job, you won’t even ask about my resignation. People shouting and telling me to resign can’t affect me,” Addo noted.

He admitted the team’s challenges but pointed to some positive performances and urged the media and fans to support the players instead of blaming them.

“We started okay but conceded a goal from a set piece. We were aware because the last time we met, they scored from a corner. Surely, we have to defend these set pieces better. It seems everything is going against us. There are some positives, especially from players who hadn’t played before but did well today.”

“The media has the power to control the narratives of games, not only the results. You have the power to lift somebody,” he stated. “I really need you to leave the players alone because they gave us everything,” Addo said.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 18, 2024
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5 minutes Read

Ashanti youth fight NDC over attacks against Kufuor

A group representing the interests of young Asante citizens, the Concerned Asante Youth, has condemned recent remarks made by Dela Edem, a member of the opposition National Democratic Congress communications team.

Addressing a press conference yesterday, Nana Agyenim Boateng, alias GYATABA, president of the group, demanded that Edem immediately retract the offensive statements made against former President John Agyekum Kufuor and issue a public apology within 24 hours.

Edem last week subjected former President Kufuor to verbal attacks for publicly endorsing Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate. In a tirade widely condemned as disrespectful, Edem implied that the former President’s current health challenges, including his use of a wheelchair, were a result of “evil deeds” he had allegedly committed during his tenure in office.

The group deemed these remarks as a malicious attack on Mr Kufuor’s character, and called them not only unfounded but deeply hurtful.

They emphasised the seriousness with which they viewed the attacks. “John Agyekum Kufuor is an extraordinary statesman who has served this country with distinction,” the group declared, pointing to the former President’s long history of public service and his international standing.

The youth group further stated that such unprovoked attacks on a revered leader were unacceptable, and that Edem’s comments were a clear sign of disrespect.

The statement also raised concerns over the broader lack of response from key figures within the NDC, particularly former President John Dramani Mahama.

The youth group said, despite the public outcry, Mr Mahama and other NDC leaders had not distanced themselves from Edem’s statements. This silence, the group argued, suggested tacit support for the attacks.

They also touched on what they described as a “longstanding tradition” of the NDC undermining the Asante people. They recalled the 2009 incident when former President Kufuor, after completing two terms as President, was unceremoniously evicted from the government-provided accommodation he intended to use for his post-presidential office.

The group believed that such actions were part of a wider strategy by the NDC to weaken Asante influence, and diminish the region’s political power for its own gain.

According to the group, their concerns were further fueled by recent developments involving Kevin Taylor, a known NDC loyalist and media personality. Taylor has frequently targeted high-ranking Asante leaders, including the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. They accused Taylor of receiving support and encouragement from the NDC leadership, specifically from Mr Mahama, to launch further attacks against the Asante people.

The Concerned Asante Youth called on all well-meaning Asantes to “rise against the malicious plans of the NDC”, and to unite in defence of their heritage. The group, therefore, appealed to Asante citizens to vote for the NPP in the upcoming elections as a means of safeguarding their interests, and ensuring that the Asante people were not subjected to further marginalization by the NDC.

“Supporting the NPP is the surest way to protect our heritage,” the group stressed, warning that a return to power by the NDC could lead to even worse treatment for the Asante people.

In a related developmen, Rights of Youth and Disability (RYD) International has described Edem’s attack as part of the NDC’s “contempt, disregard, insensitivity and disrespect” towards Persons with Disability (PWDs) and former President Kufuor.

A statement released by Yazid Adam, PWD Activist, for the group catalogued a series of troubling incidents that highlighted the NDC’s alleged disregard for the rights and dignity of PWDs.

Additionally, RYD pointed to former President John Mahama’s claim in 2017 that the allocation for PWDs from the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) had increased under his administration, despite evidence that the allocation remained significantly below the level established under Kufuor’s presidency.

RYD also noted that a subsequent attack on Mr Kufuor by NDC member Samuel Huntor—coupled with the NDC’s tepid response to both incidents—indicated a deeper problem within the party.

“While we acknowledge that Dela Edem has rendered an unqualified apology, it lacked the remorse and seriousness needed. Moreover, the lack of firm condemnation from the NDC leadership reflects the party’s broader failure to respect persons with disabilities. These continuous displays of insensitivity toward disability are not just offensive, but they further entrench prejudice in our society,” RYD International said.

It also criticized the NDC for its treatment of the Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), calling out the party’s apparent misrepresentation of the landmark law in its 2020 manifesto. The NDC referred to the Act as the “Disability Act, 2007,” despite it having been enacted under the leadership of former President Kufuor. This, the group argued, was part of a broader effort to downplay former Kufuor’s legacy, and undermine the progress made for PWDs during his time in office.

The group called on the NDC and the wider Ghanaian society to acknowledge that disability was a human condition and not a taboo or a curse, as some continued to believe. It further reminded the public that Ghana’s disability population, according to the 2021 Population and Housing Census, represented 8% of the population, or approximately 2.1 million people. It was therefore imperative, they argued, that society treated individuals with disabilities with dignity and respect.

The group praised former President Kufuor, who recently turned 86, for his continued contributions to Ghana and his dignified acceptance of his disability. “In his wheelchair, he is living the dignified life of a true statesman. We are proud to be associated with him and grateful for his ongoing contributions, including his role as the Special Guest of Honour at the maiden edition of Disability Conversations on October 17, 2024,” the statement added.

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November 18, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Kufuor’s endorsement reflects confidence in Bawumia’s leadership – Karbo

Anthony Karbo, a senior aide to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, has defended former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s endorsement of Dr Bawumia for the upcoming December elections, describing it as a testament to Bawumia’s leadership capabilities.

Former President Kufuor, in an earlier interaction with journalists on Sunday, November 17, urged Ghanaians to rally behind Bawumia, describing him as the best candidate for the presidency.

However, the endorsement has drawn sharp criticism from some quarters, notably from Alan Kyerematen, the Movement for Change presidential candidate.

Speaking on Oyerepa TV, Kyerematen expressed his disapproval of Kufuor’s public stance, arguing that it undermines the statesman’s neutrality. He claimed that the endorsement had subjected the former president to undue criticism and harmed his reputation.

“Kufuor is my uncle and an elderly person, and I don’t want to say something publicly against him. But what he has done, has created a big blot on his political career. Do you realise how people have started making derogatory comments about him? Don’t you hear the insults? Look at the kind of people insulting him.

“He’s very respected in Ghana, so why would he now be engaging in politics of this nature? He’s my uncle and his actions are bad, he’s treading on dangerous ground, and he has to stop. He knows what he’s doing.”

During an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Monday, November 18, Karbo affirmed Kufuor’s right to publicly express his political preference, emphasizing that the endorsement was grounded in Bawumia’s proven track record and vision for Ghana’s economic transformation.

Karbo dismissed the concerns raised by critics, emphasising that Kufuor’s endorsement should not be viewed as partisan but as a reflection of his confidence in Bawumia’s ability to lead.

He urged Ghanaians to focus on the substance of Kufuor’s message, highlighting the former president’s recognition of Bawumia’s potential to address Ghana’s economic challenges and drive progress.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 14, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Ghana unveils ambitious climate finance plans at COP29

The Director of Climate Financing Division at the Ministry of Finance, Phyllis Adwoa Fraikue, has outlined the country’s bold initiatives to mobilize climate finance amid global economic challenges during a “Finance Day” side event at the ongoing COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The event, themed “Collaborative Pathways to Green Growth: Revolutionizing Climate Finance in a World of Fiscal Challenges,” highlighted the urgent need for climate-resilient development, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In her address, Mrs. Fraikue underscored Ghana’s commitment to addressing climate risks while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

She spotlighted the newly established Climate Financing Division, which is pivotal to the country’s Climate Prosperity Plan. This initiative, she explained, aligned with Ghana’s national development goals with global climate objectives, while attracting both public and private investment for sustainable, green growth.

“Our aim is to unlock private capital for low-carbon development and to minimize the national debt burden,” Mrs. Fraikue noted, emphasizing the importance of clear sector-based incentives to achieve these goals.

Recognizing Ghana’s ongoing fiscal challenges, exacerbated by global economic disruptions since 2022, she highlighted the importance of innovative financial mechanisms such as debt-for-climate and debt-for-nature swaps.

The occasion was used to showcase the Finance Ministry’s new Ghana Green Finance Taxonomy, a framework designed to direct funding to environmentally responsible projects, making Ghana a regional leader in sustainable finance.

Through these tools and sector-based incentives, Ghana aims to unlock private capital for low-carbon development, minimizing the national debt burden.

Mrs. Fraikue concluded with a call for robust partnerships, stronger transparency, and accountability in climate finance to safeguard both natural and physical assets.

“Let us seize this moment to foster collaboration, leverage innovation, and build a sustainable future for all,” she urged.

She said, the Ministry of Finance has been actively engaging stakeholders for stronger financial and technical partnerships in line with the Nationally Determined Contributions.

This event showcased Ghana’s commitment to mobilizing climate finance resources, as well as its collaborative approach to strengthening resilience and advancing sustainable development.

The COP29 Finance Day event is expected to catalyze further discussions on innovative financial solutions and the future of climate finance amid global fiscal constraints.

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November 13, 2024
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1 minute Read

NPP has outperformed NDC in every sector – Bawumia

The Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has stated that the NPP government has outperformed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) across all sectors, despite facing global challenges like COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war.

Speaking at a community engagement in Akrofuom, Ashanti Region, on Tuesday, November 12, Dr. Bawumia stated, “NPP notwithstanding COVID-19, and all the global crisis, every sector of the economy, we have performed better than him [Mahama Dramani Mahama].”

“We have created more jobs, we have built more roads, more railways, more airports, more schools, more libraries, more sanitation facilities, more cocoa jobs, more agriculture, more industries, more Zongo Development. In every sector of the economy, we have done more than you.

“That is why I asked the former President to tell us one infrastructural development he has done that has benefitted the country. Just one infrastructure and he has not been able to do so.

“That is why I threw a challenge to him to debate me, but he refused. He ran away like a chicken, he’s scared.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 13, 2024
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4 minutes Read

G2billion grants for YouStart beneficiaries

The second phase of the YouStart Ghana Jobs and Skills Project has officially commenced, with a grand grant signing ceremony held yesterday at the Accra International Conference Centre.

Delivering the keynote address, Mrs Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), said the project aimed to significantly boost youth entrepreneurship and job creation in the country.

She mentioned that over 4,000 young entrepreneurs from across the nation had been awarded grants. She stressed that the event signified a critical advancement in the government’s strategic response to youth unemployment and its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship as a linchpin for economic development.

According to her, this phase of the YouStart initiative will provide crucial financial support and tailored mentorship, creating an ecosystem conducive to the growth and sustainability of youth-led businesses.

Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh underscored the project’s transformative potential. “It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today to mark a significant milestone in our collective effort to empower the youth of Ghana and nurture their entrepreneurial aspirations,” Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh remarked.

“Today’s ceremony goes beyond the formal signing of grant agreements; it represents a powerful commitment to the future of our country, built upon the dreams and determination of our young entrepreneurs,” she added.

She explained that the initiative, which would disburse GHC 51,866,369.31 in grants to 4,174 beneficiaries, encompassed a holistic support system for aspiring entrepreneurs.

She added that the funds would help launch and scale businesses, while comprehensive mentorship in business management, financial literacy, digital marketing, and market expansion would empower recipients to drive meaningful economic impact.

In the Greater Accra Region, 691 young entrepreneurs will receive grants totaling GHC 8,695,802.08. The Central Region will see 522 beneficiaries supported with GHC 6,409,205.18, while 550 recipients in the Eastern Region will share GHC 6,782,639.14. The North East Region has 112 grant recipients, with a total allocation of GHC 1,307,603.00, and in the Ashanti Region, 616 beneficiaries will receive GHC 7,580,795.52.

The Upper East Region will see 196 young entrepreneurs benefiting from GHC 2,337,600.28, and the Savanna Region has 90 recipients who will receive GHC 1,082,532.00. In the Northern Region, 364 beneficiaries will share GHC 4,327,532.00, while the Western Region’s 180 recipients will be granted GHC 2,379,872.00. The Ahafo Region has 61 beneficiaries, receiving GHC 773,257.00.

In the Upper West Region, 118 recipients will receive GHC 1,357,058.00, and the Oti Region will support 69 beneficiaries with GHC 867,186.00. The Volta Region’s 137 young entrepreneurs will receive GHC 1,853,271.11, while the Bono Region’s 179 beneficiaries will share GHC 2,266,819.00. In the Western North Region, 137 recipients will be awarded GHC 1,800,208.00, and finally, the Bono East Region will provide grants totaling GHC 2,044,989.00 to 151 beneficiaries.

She noted that these strategic allocation of grants would ensure a broad geographic impact, with young entrepreneurs from all regions set to benefit.

Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh touched on the comprehensive nature of the support provided: “These grants symbolize the Government of Ghana’s unwavering belief in the potential of our youth to drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the sustainable development of our nation. The support extends beyond finances to encompass skills training and mentorship, ensuring that beneficiaries are well-equipped to succeed.”

Mrs. Frema Osei-Opare, Chief of Staff, said: “The youth represent our most valuable resource. They bring energy, creativity, and innovation—qualities essential for our economy to flourish in today’s rapidly changing world”.

She noted that by investing in Ghana’s young people, it would ultimately lead to the future investment of the country.

Mrs. Osei-Opare urged grant recipients to maximize the opportunities presented. “The funds provided are a powerful tool in your hands, and it is up to you to wield them wisely. With these resources, think not only of what you can achieve for yourself but also of how you can create opportunities for others,” she advised.

She emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative. “I am confident that the knowledge and skills gained through this programme, coupled with the financial support provided, will equip you to become the future leaders of our economy. We look forward to seeing your businesses thrive and contribute to the sustainable development of our great nation,” she added.

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November 12, 2024
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1 minute Read

Court remands two juveniles for allegedly killing 16-year-old boy

The Asokwa District Court has remanded two juveniles into custody following their alleged involvement in the killing of a 16-year-old boy at Anloga, located in the Oforikrom Municipality of the Ashanti Region.

The incident occurred on Monday, November 4, 2024, when an altercation led to the main suspect, a 16-year-old girl, allegedly stabbing the victim. The second suspect, a 15-year-old girl is accused of abetting the murder.

During their first appearance in court, the female suspect was charged with murder and causing injury to the deceased, while the other female suspect was charged with abetment of murder.

Victor Owusu-Ansah, the brother of the deceased, spoke after the court proceedings, expressing his confidence in the justice system after the court denied the suspects’ request for bail.

The case has been adjourned to November 20, 2024, for further proceedings.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 12, 2024
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2 minutes Read

EC disqualifies GFP’s new flagbearer over illegalities

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has disqualified Philip Appiah Kubi, the Ghana Freedom Party’s (GFP) replacement flagbearer, after uncovering errors and illegalities on his nomination form.

This announcement was made by EC Chair Jean Mensa at a press conference held on Tuesday, November 12.

Despite allowing the party to correct these discrepancies, Jean Mensa stated that certain irregularities could not be overlooked, leading to the EC’s decision to disqualify Kubi from contesting in the upcoming election.

The GFP initially faced a major setback following the death of its founding leader and original flagbearer, Akua Donkor.

Her unexpected death on October 15 left the party scrambling to find a replacement for the December 2024 presidential election. In response, the EC granted the GFP a 10-day window to submit a new flagbearer nomination, which led to Kubi’s appointment.

However, upon review, the EC identified several issues with Kubi’s documentation that went beyond simple clerical errors.

EC Chair Jean Mensa explained that while the party corrected some of the identified errors, other elements were deemed “illegitimate” and could not be accepted under the electoral laws.

Jean Mensa emphasized that the EC’s mandate to uphold the integrity of the electoral process prevents the acceptance of any irregularities, regardless of the party’s attempts to rectify them.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 12, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Supreme Court rules: Speaker’s declaration of four seats vacant is unconstitutional

The Supreme Court of Ghana has by a 5-2 decision ruled that the Speaker, Alban Bagbin‘s declaration of four seats as vacant is unconstitutional.

At a brief sitting on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo said the Speaker’s declaration cannot hold.

According to her the reasons for the verdict would be provided on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.

“By court in a majority decision of five two, Lovelace Johnson JSC and Ahmadu Tanko JSC dissenting on the issue of jurisdiction, the plaintiff’s action succeeds the full reasons and orders of the court shall be filed with the registrar by close of date, tomorrow, 13th, November 2024 the is the judgment of the court” the Chief Justice said.

On 17 October 2024, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, declared four parliamentary seats vacant with just two months remaining until the election in December.

The legislators affected by the declaration are Peter Yaw Kwakye Ackah of the NDC, representing the Amenfi Central constituency in the Western Region; Andrew Amoako Asiamah of Fomena in the Ashanti Region; Kojo Asante, NPP MP for Suhum in the Eastern Region; and Cynthia Morrison of the NPP, representing Agona West constituency.

Their seats were declared vacant because they announced their intention to contest the December election as independent candidates in their respective constituencies.

This declaration means that Ghana’s hung parliament, which previously gave the governing New Patriotic Party a slight upper hand, with the support of independent MP Andrew Amoako Asiamah, will now shift towards the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Following this, the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, filed an injunction application at the Supreme Court in response to the Speaker’s declaration.

The Court subsequently issued a stay in execution of the Speaker’s declaration. However, the Speaker filed an application requesting the Court to overturn their earlier ruling.

The Speaker’s legal team argues that the Supreme Court lacks jurisdiction over the suit filed by the Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

For the past three weeks, the controversy has sparked widespread discussion among Ghanaians, especially the elite, with many suggesting that the impasse could affect government business and deprive the country of the necessary development and stability, particularly during upcoming election.

During the proceedings, the court listened to the Speaker’s legal team in a day-long proceedings , after which the hearing was adjourned to Monday, 11 November 2024.

On Monday, as the Speaker’s lawyers did not appear in court, the Chief Justice again adjourned the case to the following day, Tuesday, for a verdict.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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November 12, 2024
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2 minutes Read

NLC directs GHA workers to suspend strike

The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed workers of the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) to suspend their ongoing strike action.

The GHA workers started indefinite strike action on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, in protest against the implementation of the National Roads Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1118).

The workers argued that the Act, which seeks to merge the GHA with the Department of Urban Roads and the Department of Feeder Roads, would reduce the Authority’s autonomy and increase bureaucratic inefficiency.

At the heart of the dispute is a demand for the removal of two key officials: Ing. I.K. Mensah, the Chairman of the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) Board, and Ing. Collins B. Donkor, the Chief Executive Officer of the NRA.

The workers argue that these officials have been complicit in decisions that threaten the integrity of the roads sector.

This latest development follows a formal petition to the president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in which workers called for broader consultations before proceeding with the implementation of the new Act.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NLC emphasized the need for the GHA workers to suspend their industrial action while negotiations continue.

It said it met both parties in caucus sessions and observed that the respondents (GHA workers) did not follow due process under the Labour Act, 2023 (Act 651) regarding their intended industrial action.

The NLC therefore directed that “The respondents—Ghana Highway Authority, Senior Staff Association, and the Divisional Union of Construction and Building Materials Workers Union of GHA (CBMWU-TUC)—are to follow the due process.”

“Whilst waiting for respondents to follow the due process, they must suspend any and/or all intended industrial action.”

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November 11, 2024
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5 minutes Read

Gov’t commissions modern markets in Techiman, Nkoranza

The government, through the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, has commissioned state-of-the-art market facilities in the Techiman South and Nkoranza South municipalities to enhance local economic development, and promote better trading conditions for market women and local entrepreneurs.

Speaking during the commissioning yesterday, the sector Minister, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, said the newly completed Nana Abena Market in Techiman consisted of 122 lockable stores and 68 market stalls, designed to accommodate a wide range of commercial activities. He mentioned that the market featured essential service structures, including an administration block, a crèche, a restaurant and a dedicated meat shop.

He indicated that it was equipped with crucial safety and health infrastructure, including a new fire post, a police post, and a health post on-site. The market also prioritized sanitation with modern washrooms and an integrated drainage system, featuring 300 meters of 0.9-meter U-drain, 710 meters of 0.6-meter U-drain, and 900 meters of internal drainage.

Additional enhancements included a 100-meter road junction upgrade, 1,900 square meters of paved walkways, perimeter fencing for security, and 28 streetlights to ensure safety and accessibility throughout the market area.

In Nkoranza, the development included a two-story block comprising 50 lockable stores and 100 market stalls, designed to boost local commerce. Key facilities at this site include police and health posts to maintain a secure trading environment. It also features a six-seater WC facility, two mechanized boreholes for a reliable water supply, and a two-unit crèche with an office to support families using the market.

The Minister further indicated that the projects were being implemented under the Ghana Secondary Cities Support Programme (GSCSP) through a $245 million World Bank facility, scheduled to run until 2025. He emphasised that the rapid growth of the urban population over the past decade had significantly strained the country’s urban infrastructure and challenged the capacity of urban Assemblies to provide quality services.

He noted that Ghana’s urbanization rate had risen steadily, reaching a pivotal milestone in 2021 when more than 50 percent of the population began residing in urban areas. “This growth has not only intensified stress on existing infrastructure but has also adversely impacted the quality of life for many citizens,” the Minister explained. The rapid urbanization, he added, had brought complex and seemingly insurmountable challenges that require robust interventions.

In light of these challenges, the Minister reiterated, the Government of Ghana’s strategic partnership with the World Bank through the GSCCP was a “testament to our commitment to addressing the urbanization challenges facing secondary cities”.

The Minister emphasised the importance of collaboration among various national institutions to ensure the effective implementation of the Ghana Secondary Cities Support Program. He explained that the programme was a coordinated effort involving several national agencies, including the Office of the Head of the Local Government Service (OHLGS) to ensure skilled officers were appropriately posted, the Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs) to manage regional coordination, and the Land Use and Spatial Development Authority (LUSPA) alongside the Lands Commission (LVD) to guarantee proper land use and spatial planning.

He added that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) played a role in ensuring that projects were executed in an environmentally friendly manner, while the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) oversaw the maintenance of workers’ human rights at project sites.

“The programme provides an integrated package of support to strengthen the capacity of urban Assemblies,” the Minister stated. He highlighted that the initiative included the development of essential infrastructure, such as roads, stormwater drains, pedestrian walkways, street electrification, markets, business advisory centers, transport terminals, and sanitation equipment, to elevate the status of participating municipalities.

Outlining the programme’s objectives, he emphasised the goal of building the institutional capacity of beneficiary Assemblies for improved urban management, and enhancing the provision of social infrastructure. “Today, we are here to commission various projects completed by the Government, which will serve as a foundation for improved service delivery,” the Minister indicated. He acknowledged the vital role played by traditional leaders, chiefs, opinion leaders, and community members in the successful completion of these projects.

The Minister recalled the sod-cutting ceremony led by his predecessor, Mr. Daniel Botwe, and expressed pride in the project’s timely completion. “At that event, it was stated that within a year, this market would be completed for use, and today, we have delivered on that promise,” he remarked.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of citizens, saying “Our determination is to ensure that citizens can engage in economic activities in an improved, healthy environment, which upholds human dignity.” He underscored the significant investment made in these facilities.

He gave a directive to Municipal Chief Executives: “Ensure that this market is put to good use and implement measures to maintain these facilities for long-term sustainability. The Ministry will not tolerate any Assembly that fails to uphold this responsibility”.

He expressed gratitude to the World Bank for its continuous support to the Government of Ghana in the urban sector over the past 30 years, through various programmes, including technical assistance and investment projects aimed at enhancing urban planning, management, and service delivery across the country. He also thanked President Akufo-Addo for his vision, as well as the Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs), contractors, consultants, and various stakeholders who contributed to the success of the initiative.

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November 11, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Long-term climate strategy for Ghana soon

The Government will soon outdoor a 25-year- Climate Resilient Agricultural Development Strategy for Ghana, Dr Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Food and Agriculture has announced.

The 2025 -2050 strategy, which is being validated, he explained, would guide the country’s collective efforts to build resilience in order to live with the impacts of the climate crises, especially in the most vulnerable communities.

Speaking at the 40th National Farmers’ Day Awards celebration in Accra, the Minister stated that the government was intensifying the promotion of climate-smart agricultural technology, including the introduction of drought-tolerant varieties, early maturing, and high-yielding to address the problem of dry spells.

In collaboration with research institutions, development partners and the private sector, the government is also working to increase access to improved crop varieties and breeds of livestock by farmers.

The Minister said the government was also promoting sustainable farming practices, including agroforestry, multiple cropping, conservation agriculture, and integrated pest management to boost productivity.

Dr. Bryan Acheampong noted that expanding irrigation and sustainable water management systems, as well as access to sustainable water systems, was critical in building resilience to climate change and supporting all-year-round production.

The government, he said, had in the past eight years, expanded the area under public irrigation schemes from 11,000 hectares (Ha) in 2016 to 19,000 Ha in 2024.

“It is important to state that between 2023 and 2024 alone, about 7,000 hectares have been added. Farmer-led/private commercial schemes also increased from 189,000 hectares to 207,000 hectares between 2016 and 2023.”

The Minister stated that the government, through the Nationally Determined Contributions Action Project, had recently concluded a study to explore investment options for solar-powered irrigation systems for smallholder farmers to reduce the cost of irrigation.

It was also taking steps to strengthen the agricultural extension services to equip farmers with the latest information on climate-resilient practices.

“Our extension officers are being trained in new technologies and methods that help farmers make informed decisions about crop choices, planting times, and resource management,” he said.

This year’s celebration saw Nana Owusu Achiaw, a 70-year-old farmer based in the Sekyere-Central District,   Ashanti Region, recognised as the 2024 National Best Farmer.

The commercial-scale mixed farming entrepreneur, received GHS1 million as his prize, a category sponsored by the Agricultural Development Bank. He was recognised for his outstanding adherence to climate-smart agricultural and innovative practices.

Other award winners of the night are Nassam Fuseini, First Runner-up-National Best Farmer, who was also presented with a tractor, trailer, and sprayer; while Ransford Atiemo, National Best Farmer-Second Runner-up, also received a tractor with implements.

Others are: Apostle Noah Obeng, the National Best Livestock Farmer; Stephen Addo, National Best Physically-Challenged Farmer; and Ernestina Osei-Tutu, National Best Female Farmer. They each received GHS200,000 as their prizes.

Mensah Weibukanga emerged the Overall National Best Fisher, taking home a double cabin pick-up truck, while Ebenezer Dzikunu, National Best Fish Farmer; Victoria Atsa, National Best Fish Processor; and Christopher Ackom, National Best Marine Fisher, were also awarded for their efforts.

Nana Joojo Solomon emerged the National Best Most Outstanding Personality for Sustainable Development of Artisanal Fishing, and received a double cabin truck, with Kwame Damoah, National Best Most Outstanding Fisheries Enforcement Officer, also taking home a double cabin kia truck.

Kwame Alex, the National Best Cocoa Farmer, Solomon Tohola, National Best Most Promising Young Cocoa Farmer, Yaa Ajele, National Best Most Enterprising Cocoa Farmer, Victor Benefo, National Best Coffee Farmer, and Winifred Batabana, National Best Sheanut Picker, were also decorated for their outstanding farming practices.

The theme for the celebration is – “Building Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.”

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November 11, 2024
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1 minute Read

Free kidney dialysis for all NHIS patients from Dec 1

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has announced that starting December 1, 2024, kidney dialysis will be provided free of charge for all patients under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

This comes after a successful pilot programme that offered free kidney dialysis for patients aged 60 and above, as well as those under 18 years.

Dr. Bawumia announced while campaigning in the Old Tafo constituency on Sunday, November 10.

“Many people suffer from kidney diseases, requiring dialysis, which can be costly and unaffordable for many. Six months ago, we initiated a pilot programme to include dialysis under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). For the past six months, individuals over 60 and those under 18 have been receiving free dialysis.

“However, we are now concluding this pilot programme. Starting December 1 of this year, all kidney dialysis patients will be covered for free under the NHIS,” he stated.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 11, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Vacant seats case: Supreme Court to deliver verdict today

The Supreme Court is set to deliver a landmark judgment today on the disputed decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant, a case that has ignited significant political debate and brought renewed focus to the constitutional powers of the Speaker of Parliament.

The case, brought forward by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary caucus, challenges Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of these seats as vacant without judicial oversight or the initiation of by-elections.

At the core of the dispute is Speaker Bagbin’s interpretation of the 1992 Constitution regarding parliamentary vacancies. Bagbin declared the four seats vacant on September 17, 2024, arguing that the MPs in question had violated constitutional requirements, which he believed justified their removal from office.

Afenyo-Markin contends that Bagbin overstepped his constitutional authority by making the decision independently.

He maintains that only the judiciary holds the power to interpret the Constitution in such cases, and that the Speaker’s actions bypassed due judicial process. According to Afenyo-Markin, Bagbin’s declaration effectively disenfranchises the constituents in those areas, denying them their right to representation.

Following Afenyo-Markin’s suit, the Supreme Court issued an injunction preventing any further action on the vacated seats until a final decision could be made. Speaker Bagbin, however, challenged this interim injunction, filing a motion to have the court reverse its decision.

He argued that freezing his declaration infringed upon his duties as Speaker and that his decision was within his powers to maintain parliamentary integrity.

The Supreme Court dismissed Bagbin’s motion to reverse the injunction, upholding its previous ruling and setting the stage for today’s crucial judgment on the matter.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 11, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Ken Kuranchie petitions President for removal of Special Prosecutor

The Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Searchlight, Kenneth Kwabena Agyei Kuranchie, has formally requested that President Nana Akufo-Addo dismiss Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng from office.

He alleges serious breaches of conduct, including violations of his oaths of office and secrecy.

In an October 18, 2024 letter, Kuranchie argued that Agyebeng’s actions meet the criteria for removal outlined in Section 15.(1) of the Special Prosecutor Act (Act 959), which details conditions under which the Special Prosecutor may be dismissed.

Citing the Act, he stated, “Petitioner presents this petition for the removal of the Special Prosecutor, Mr Kissi Agyebeng, on the authority of Section 15. (1) of the Special Prosecutor Act, (Act 959) of 2017,” noting that grounds for removal include “stated misbehaviour, incompetence, incapacity…willful violation of the Official Oath and Oath of Secrecy.”

Kuranchie’s claims include allegations that Agyebeng authorized polygraph tests for 80% of the Office’s staff, not through Ghana’s National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), but instead via the United States’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

“Petitioner states, first, that this work was not done by the N.I.B, and second, this work was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), an agency of the government of the United States of America, a foreign nation,” Mr Kuranchie asserted.

He contends this constitutes “stated misbehaviour” and violates the Data Protection Act, emphasizing that “these acts amount to willful violation of the Official Oath and Oath of Secrecy; and are prejudicial or inimical to the economy or security of the State.”

Kuranchie underscored that these alleged breaches make Agyebeng unfit for office, per Section 15.(1)(a) of Act 959, and has urged the president to take action. President Akufo-Addo has since referred the petition to the Chief Justice for a preliminary assessment.

This petition follows a Supreme Court ruling in July 2024 dismissing a lawsuit filed by Kuranchie, which sought to declare the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) unconstitutional.

That case, brought against the Attorney General and the OSP, claimed that the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (ACT 957) contravened several articles of the 1992 Constitution.

Although Kuranchie previously discontinued a similar suit last year, he recently filed a new petition on the same grounds, seeking a constitutional review of the OSP’s mandate.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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November 7, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Cholera Outbreak: Ten people dead, over 72 others infected

Ten persons have died with over 72 others infected, following a cholera outbreak in the Greater Accra and Central regions over the past three weeks.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) confirmed that the cases were recorded in Ada East and West, Kpone Katamanso, Korle Klottey, Ashaiman, Ga South, Accra Metro, all in the Greater Accra Region and Awutu Senya West and East, Gomoa East and Efutu Districts in the Central Region.

Four out of the six deaths were recorded in the Awutu Senya district while the remaining six deaths were recorded in Ada and other districts.

Dr Franklin Asiedu -Bokoe, Director for Public Health, GHS, told the Ghana News Agency that most of the infections recorded were not severe but fatalities are being recorded due to the delay to report cases to the health facilities.

“Deaths are occurring, because most of the patients who had cholera tried to self-medicate, some report to the hospital three days after the cholera infection,” he said .

The Director said the lack of clean water in some of the affected districts, the practice of open defecation and poor hand hygiene had contributed to the cholera outbreak.

He urged the public to practice frequent hand washing with soap under running water and the use of hand sanitizers in cases where there was no access to clean to water.

Between 2017 and 2023, Ghana did not record a cholera outbreak although a few indigenous cases were reported.

Dr Asiedu-Bekoe said regular handwashing with soap under running water among the public during the COVID-19 outbreak was an effective measure to the control of infectious diseases.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cholera remains a global threat to public health and serves as an indicator of inequity and a lack of social development.

Symptoms of cholera include frequent diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, along with abdominal cramps, fever, headache, fatigue, dry mouth and throat, and decreased urine output.

Medical experts warn that severe cases of the disease can be fatal within hours if left untreated.

Most individuals infected with cholera may not exhibit symptoms, but the bacteria can still be present in their feaces for 1 to 10 days post-infection, potentially contaminating the environment and infecting others.

A minority of patients develop acute watery diarrhea with severe dehydration. This can lead to death if left untreated.

Cholera transmission is closely linked to inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Typical at-risk areas include peri-urban slums, as well as camps for internally displaced persons.

Early detection and treatment are crucial to preventing complications and reducing mortality.

The Ghana Health Service has advised the public to drink safe treated water, eat well cooked or properly handled food, avoid close contact with infected individuals, practice good hygiene; wash hands with soap under running water, ensure a proper disposal of faeces and report to the nearest health facility if experiencing profuse diarrhoea and vomiting.

Source: GNA

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November 7, 2024
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2 minutes Read

I’ve fulfilled 80% of my promises – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has highlighted his accomplishments since taking office, claiming to have fulfilled 80 percent of his promises to the Ghanaian people.

During his “Thank You” tour of the Western Region on Wednesday, November 6, in Takoradi, the President urged Ghanaians to vote for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming elections, emphasizing that it would allow him to continue his successful work.

Akufo-Addo specifically celebrated the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy as his flagship legacy, underscoring its far-reaching impact on the country’s education system.

“The NPP manifestos of 2016, and 2020, 80% of those promises have been fulfilled by my government. Specifically, these include our educational system, which is the foundation of every nation.

“Before I assumed office, our children who completed school JHS, every year, one hundred thousand plus were unable to attend SHS. Even though they qualified for SHS because their parents were unable to pay their fees.

“Over the course of 10 years, one million young Ghanaians were not able to continue their education. We were unable to protect the future of the young ones.

“That is why I introduced the Free SHS policy, for the government to absorb the fees, to allow students to attend school.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 7, 2024
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4 minutes Read

Harris concedes election, but not ‘the fight that fueled this campaign’

Vice President Kamala Harris offered an uplifting, positive charge to her supporters as she conceded the 2024 presidential election, acknowledging the stinging loss while committing to a peaceful transfer of power and vowing to “fight” in a much different way than a defeated presidential candidate promised four years ago.

“Earlier today, I spoke with President-elect (Donald) Trump and congratulated him on his victory. I also told him that we will help him and his team with their transition and that we will engage in a peaceful transfer of power,” she said in remarks at Howard University, her alma mater, in Washington, DC.

In making the remarks, Harris did something her opponent refused to do in the aftermath of the 2020 election: Accept its results.

“A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results. … At the same time, in our nation, we owe loyalty not to a president or a party, but to the Constitution of the United States, and loyalty to our conscience and to our God.

“My allegiance to all three is why I am here to say: While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign,” she said.

One hundred and eight days after her campaign began, the self-described “joyful warrior” spoke about her loss in determined terms as she sought to reassure the American people.

“I know folks are feeling and experiencing a range of emotions right now. I get it. But we must accept the results of this election,” she said.

Closing a chapter in the history books after a tense campaign, the vice president offered a call to supporters to “roll up our sleeves” in response to the election results.

“Do not despair. This is not a time to throw up our hands. This is a time to roll up our sleeves. This is a time to organize, to mobilize, and to stay engaged for the sake of freedom and justice and the future that we all know we can build together,” she said in her 12-minute remarks.

She vowed to wage that fight “in the voting booth, in the courts, and in the public square,” as well as in “quieter ways: By treating one another with kindness and respect … by always using our strength to lift people up.”

She also sent messages to her more youthful supporters.

“To the young people who are watching, it is okay to feel sad and disappointed, but please know it’s going to be OK. On the campaign, I would often say, ‘When we fight, we win.’ But here’s the thing, here’s the thing, sometimes the fight takes a while. That doesn’t mean we won’t win. That doesn’t mean we won’t win,” she said.

“The important thing is don’t ever give up. Don’t ever give up. Don’t ever stop trying to make the world a better place,” she continued. “You have the capacity to do extraordinary good in the world.”

With the glass ceiling still intact, Harris did not directly address the nation’s failure to reach the historic, barrier-breaking outcome of a female president for the second time, something she largely avoided highlighting on the campaign trail, rather letting surrogates do the talking for her.

But she offered a nod to the moment: “Don’t you ever listen when anyone tells you something is impossible because it has never been done before.”

The speech marked a conclusion to a historic and tumultuous election season that included President Joe Biden’s decision to step aside following a catastrophic debate performance. His running mate quickly consolidated the party’s support, ascending to the top of the Democratic ticket.

Harris wore a dark suit late Wednesday afternoon and walked out to Beyoncé’s up-tempo anthem, “Freedom,” as she has throughout her time on the campaign trail, pausing for several moments as the crowd applauded her.

Her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, could be seen crying, as well as multiple attendees standing in the front row before her.

Source: CNN

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November 7, 2024
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1 minute Read

Parliament reconvenes today amidst cross-carpeting brouhaha

Parliament is set to reconvene today, Thursday, November 7, following a formal communique issued by Speaker Alban Bagbin.

The recall, communicated to Members of Parliament on October 31, specifies that the session will begin at 10 a.m. at the Accra International Conference Centre, the temporary location for sittings while Parliament House undergoes renovations.

The Speaker’s decision to recall Parliament aligns with Article 112 (3) of Ghana’s Constitution and Standing Orders 5 and 53, which allow the Speaker to summon Parliament in the public interest.

Although no specific agenda items have been disclosed, the session is anticipated to address pressing national matters.

This reconvening follows the indefinite adjournment of parliamentary proceedings on October 22, after a heated exchange between Members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over which caucus holds the majority.

The dispute has persisted, creating ongoing tension between the parties.

Despite the Supreme Court’s recent rejection of the Speaker’s application to stay its earlier ruling, the Speaker has clarified that he does not control seating arrangements in the Chamber.

However, this unresolved issue of which caucus sits on the majority side may lead to further disagreements as MPs take their seats for the session.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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November 7, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Political Parties receive Certified Final Voters’ Register

The Electoral Commission (EC) has presented the final certified Voters’ Register for the 2024 General Election to the political parties.

Representatives of the political parties received soft copies of the register at meeting with the Commission, in Accra, Wednesday evening.

At the last Inter Party Advisory Committee Meeting on October 15, 2024, the Commission assured that it would provide the final certified Voters’ Register to the political parties in the first week of November.

The Commission conducted an Online exhibition of the corrected Voters’ Register from October 15, 2024 to October 19, 2024, as part of measures to correct all issues associated with the register ahead of the December 7 polls.

Mrs Jean Mensa, Chairperson, EC, said a total of 158 issues from registered voters across the country brought to attention of the Commission during the online exhibition exercise had been resolved.

She said no political party presented any issues regarding the register for resolution during the online exhibition period.

“I am pleased to note that we now have a robust certified final voters’ register which is fit to deliver a credible, fair, transparent, fair, peaceful, and glorious elections come the 7th of December, 2024,” Mrs Mensa said.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC), however, returned their copy of the Certified Voters’ Register and demanded the Commission to furnish the Party with summaries of the register to guide its assessment.

Dr Rashid Tanko-Computer, Deputy Director of Elections and IT, NDC, said the Party would not accept the certified register until the Commission provided the Party with the summaries to indicate the total number of registered voters among other statistics.

The New Patriotic Party and the Movement for Change also asked the Commission to provide the Parties with the summaries of the register to enable them to know the total number of registered voters and the breakdown of the data.

The Commission initially agreed to provide the parties with the summaries of the register but after hours of waiting, the EC assured the political parties that soft copies of the summaries would be made available to the parties on Thursday, November 7, 2024.

Mrs Mensa said the register provided to the Parties was the final certified voters’ register, adding that although the Commission “is not obliged” by law to provide the parties with the requested summaries, the EC would honour the request “in the spirit of transparency.”

Last week, the Commission suspended the printing of presidential ballot papers, following the death of Madam Akua Donkor, flag bearer of the Ghana Freedom Party on October 28, 2024.

The EC is yet to communicate the next line of action after the GFP on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 officially presented Mr Philip Appiah Kubi as its presidential aspirant for the 2024 presidential election.

Source: GNA

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November 6, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Napo berates Asiedu Nketiah over Seikwa’s lack of dev’t

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the vice presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has slammed Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, also known as ‘General Mosquito’, the National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Dr. Prempeh, popularly known as ‘Napo,’ accused Asiedu Nketiah of failing his hometown by not facilitating the needed developmental projects and infrastructure improvements, despite benefiting politically from the area for years.

Addressing the people of Seikwa, as part of his campaign tour of the Bono Region, Dr. Prempeh decried the absence of basic amenities in the town, which is well-known within the Tain constituency.

He expressed dismay over the town’s lack of infrastructure, including proper roads, hospitals, schools, and other essential facilities, stating, “Seikwa deserves better.”

Napo claimed that Asiedu Nketiah had consistently used his ties to Seikwa for personal and political gain while failing to deliver any tangible development for its residents. “Over the years, Asiedu Nketiah has grown wealthy and influential, yet his hometown remains in dire need of basic infrastructure,” Dr. Prempeh remarked. “This is a clear indication of selfishness and a lack of commitment to the people he claims to represent. The NDC does not deserve the votes of Seikwa,” he added.

He urged residents to be cautious of any campaign promises made by the NDC, particularly as the December 7 presidential and parliamentary elections approach. According to him, the NDC’s pledges for development in Seikwa are empty words, and should be met with skepticism, given the town’s condition under NDC leadership. “If they come here with juicy promises, remember the state of your town today and reject them,” he stated.

Dr. Prempeh called on the people of Seikwa to rally behind the NPP’s presidential candidate, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the NPP parliamentary candidate for the Tain constituency. He contended that an NPP government had the vision, leadership, and policies necessary to elevate the area.

He emphasised that only the NPP had a proven track record of national development that could drive Seikwa towards economic growth and prosperity.

“I believe the people of Seikwa deserve a better future, one that the NPP is fully prepared to deliver. Dr. Bawumia has a plan for inclusive development, which includes regions like Bono. So, this year, cast your votes for the NPP to bring real transformation to Seikwa,” he stated.

Dr. Prempeh also took time to express gratitude for the warm welcome he received, acknowledging the loyalty of Tain’s residents to the NPP. He described the reception as “unforgettable”, and highlighted it as a sign of unwavering support for the party in the region.

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November 6, 2024
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Akufo-Addo unveils statue of himself at Effia-Nkwanta Hospital

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has unveiled a statue of himself at the entrance of Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi as part of his one-day “thank you” tour of the Western Region.

Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah explained that the statue honors the president’s initiatives in the region, including the rehabilitation of Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, the construction of a 3-tier Sinohydro interchange, and the redevelopment of the Takoradi Market Circle.

However, these projects remain incomplete, with some even halted.

Addressing residents in Takoradi on Wednesday, November 6, President Akufo-Addo highlighted his achievements since taking office, claiming to have fulfilled 80% of his promises to Ghanaians.

He encouraged voters to support Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming elections, emphasizing that this would allow his administration’s initiatives to continue.

The President also described the Free SHS policy as his most significant legacy, citing its transformative impact across the country.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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November 6, 2024
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Inflation for October 2024 increases marginally to 22.1%

Inflation for October 2024 increased marginally to 22.1% from 21.5% recorded in September 2024.

According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), food and non-food inflation went up by 22.8 and 21.5 percent respectively.

Also, locally produced items went up to 24. 6 percent compared to the 23.4 percent recorded in September. Imported items saw a drop to 16.3 percent compared to the 17.0 percent recorded in October.

Addressing journalists, Government Statistician, Prof. Samuel Annim explained that the 22.1 percent that has been recorded for the month of October 2024 is a 0.6 percentage point increase relative to the year on year inflation that was recorded for September 2024.

“Desegregating overall rate of inflation from your food and non-food perspective, we did record 22.8 percent for food inflation and 21.5 percent for non-food inflation for the month of October 2024”.

He pointed out that food inflation has increased by 0.7 percentage point recording 22.1 percent in September 2024 and increasing to 22.8 percent for October 2024.

“Non food inflation has also increased by 0.6 percentage point, increasing from 20.9 percent for the month of September 2024 to 21.5 percent for the month of October 2024.

myjoyonline.com

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November 6, 2024
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BOST Initiates Major Depot Upgrades to Improve Operational Efficiency

The Managing Director of Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST) Dr. Edwin Alfred Provencal has revealed that BOST is expected to complete Phase 1 of the Accra Plains and Kumasi depots project.

He emphasized that the upgrades along with broader network improvements, aimed to create a more resilient and responsive oil supply chain in Ghana.

“This upgrade is not just about improving our infrastructure but about setting a new standard for operational excellence across our sector”, he said.

Dr. Provencal made the disclosure at the Minister’s Press Briefing in Accra Today.

He noted that the company’s dedication to enhancing Ghana’s fuel infrastructure will reach a major milestone with these improvements.

Dr. Provencal stressed that the upgrades are a crucial step toward achieving the company’s long-term vision and also boost operational efficiency.

“We believe this will enhance our capacity to meet Ghana’s fuel demands efficiently and sustainably,” he stated.

He stated that the upgrades represent a strategic shift for BOST as it moves from traditional oil storage and transportation toward a broader energy storage model that includes cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, such as solar and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

“This shift aligns with BOST’s rebranding from Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation to Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation”, he said.

He reiterated that the completion of Phase 1 is expected to reduce inter-depot loading times from four hours to one hour and 30 minutes, while barge loading times have been cut from seven days to just one.

Dr. Provencal emphasized that these improvements would have a direct impact on service delivery and customer satisfaction, strengthening BOST’s reputation as one of Ghana’s leading state-owned enterprises.

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November 6, 2024
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BOST clears GHC384million debt

The Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Limited Company (BEST) has repaid 100% of its trade debt and loan obligations, totaling over GHC384 million.

Speaking at the Minister’s Press Briefing organised by the Information Ministry, the Managing Director of BEST, Dr. Edwin Provencal, noted that the oil company had gone through dramatic changes, including the resolution of long-standing tax arrears and audited accounts spanning 2015 through 2023.

In addition to the debt clearance, he disclosed that his outfit had implemented several strategies to boost revenue, including the completion of critical projects like the Tema to Akosombo Petroleum Pipeline (TAPP) and the Bolga to Buipe Pipeline, which now operate with leak detection systems to secure Ghana’s fuel infrastructure.

“Achieving this level of debt repayment while enhancing operational capabilities is a testament to our commitment to financial transparency and growth,” he emphasised.

Dr. Edwin Provencal attributed the financial turnaround to his strong corporate governance and operational discipline.

He stated that the financial achievement highlighted BOST’s strategic management approach that positioned it as a model for Ghanaian state-owned enterprises.

“BOST is on a path to sustainability, not just in finances but in energy solutions for Ghana,” Dr. Provencal noted.

With these initiatives, BOST’s revenue-earning assets have surged from 18% in 2017 to 98% today.

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November 6, 2024
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Donald Trump elected US president in stunning comeback

Donald Trump has been elected president, capping a remarkable comeback four years after he was voted out of the White House and ushering in a new American leadership likely to test democratic institutions at home and relations abroad.

Trump, 78, recaptured the White House yesterday by securing more than the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the presidency, Edison Research projected, following a campaign of dark rhetoric that deepened the polarization in the country.

The former president’s victory in the swing state of Wisconsin pushed him over the threshold. As of 5:45 a.m. ET (1045 GMT) Trump had won 279 electoral votes to Harris’ 223 with several states yet to be counted.

He also led Harris by about 5 million votes in the popular count. “America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate,” Trump said early on Wednesday to a roaring crowd of supporters at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in Florida.

Trump’s political career appeared to be over after his false claims of election fraud led a mob of supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in a failed bid to overturn his 2020 defeat.

But he swept away challengers inside his Republican Party and then beat Democratic candidate Kamala Harris by capitalizing on voter concerns about high prices and what Trump claimed, without evidence, was a rise in crime due to illegal immigration.

Harris did not speak to supporters who had gathered at her alma mater Howard University. Her campaign co-chair, Cedric Richmond, briefly addressed the crowd after midnight, saying Harris would speak publicly later.

Republicans won a U.S. Senate majority, but neither party appeared to have an edge in the fight for control of the House of Representatives where Republicans currently hold a narrow majority.

Major stock markets around the world rallied following Trump’s victory, and the dollar was set for its biggest one-day jump since 2020.

His diatribes were often aimed at migrants, who he said were “poisoning the blood of the country,” or Harris, whom he frequently derided as unintelligent.

Despite legal woes and controversies, Trump is only the second former president to win a second term after leaving the White House. The first was Grover Cleveland, who served two four-year terms starting in 1885 and 1893.

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November 5, 2024
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Apprenticeship programme to address job market needs

The government has launched the Ghana Jobs and Skills Apprenticeship Programme to help in combating Ghana’s pressing youth unemployment crisis.

This transformative initiative is designed to equip young people with the skills and experience necessary to succeed in a modern job market, making it a cornerstone in Ghana’s strategy to foster economic growth and youth empowerment.

At the unveiling ceremony in Sunyani, Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, Director General of the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), said it was a comprehensive overhaul of Ghana’s vocational training system.

“With a focus on integrating modern apprenticeship models and expanding the voucher system, the initiative aims to make technical and vocational education more relevant, appealing and accessible for young people,” he said .

The government’s approach, he indicated, involved not only skill acquisition but also enhancing employment opportunities through practical, hands-on experience and industry linkages.

“Sunyani Technical University and Cape Coast Technical University stand out as leading examples of the programme’s impact. These institutions have successfully implemented robust apprenticeship systems, providing students with direct exposure to industry practices, workplace skills, and potential employment connections,” he added.

He noted that by offering hands-on experience within these structured settings, the government aimed to bridge the gap between education and employment, helping students transition smoothly into the workforce.

He lamented that despite these advancements, the Ghana Jobs and Skills Apprenticeship Programme had encountered several obstacles, particularly regarding outdated equipment and limited partnerships with industries.

These challenges, he noted, had often restricted the effectiveness of apprenticeship programmes, with some institutions struggling to meet modern industry standards.

He stated that government had committed to significant investments to upgrade training facilities, modernize educational resources, and foster stronger industry connections.

“To strengthen these collaborations, Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) are being established to serve as conduits for best practices, industry standards, and employment opportunities. The SSBs will work closely with institutions to align training programs with the evolving needs of the market, ensuring students gain relevant and in-demand skills,” he added.

Dr. Asamoah further expressed optimism about the programme’s development. “We’ve seen commendable dedication and progress from institutions like Sunyani Technical University and Cape Coast Technical University,” he noted.

He added that the government was actively working to eliminate barriers hindering the success of apprenticeship models, a commitment underscored by ongoing facility upgrades and strategic partnerships.

He revealed that the government was implementing several targeted strategies, including formalizing Workplace Experience Learning (WEL) opportunities, establishing structured apprenticeship pathways, and encouraging knowledge-sharing across institutions.

“By doing so, the programme is expected to create a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between educational institutions and industries, allowing for continuous improvement and adaptation to new market demands,” he added.

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October 15, 2024
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All discrepancies in 2024 provisional voters register fixed – EC

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has provided assurances that all discrepancies in the 2024 Provisional Voter Register have been fully resolved.

Following a thorough review over the past two weeks, the EC confirmed that any anomalies identified have been corrected, ensuring the integrity of the electoral roll.

This move was in response to concerns raised by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), which had called for a forensic audit of the register. The NDC had expressed doubts about the accuracy of the initial provisional voter register.

Addressing the issue during a live broadcast at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa emphasized the Commission’s commitment to ensuring public confidence in the electoral process.

She noted that the EC has worked diligently to rectify the errors, reinforcing the Commission’s dedication to transparency, fairness, and integrity in Ghana’s democratic processes.

Mensa reiterated that the EC remains committed to delivering credible elections, assuring voters that the necessary corrections have been made to guarantee an accurate voter register for the upcoming 2024 general elections.

“Over the last two weeks, we have spent our energies to clean the voter register and to ensure that the information presented is accurate. Simply put, we have worked to ensure that every applicant who registered in 2023/2024 is on the voter register.

“We are confident that the revised Provisional Voter Register that we present starting today is a marked departure from the register we presented during the exhibition exercise.

“Largely, all discrepancies identified to date have been fixed, as we promised, during our last meeting starting today, October 15, to October 19, all registered voters will have a second opportunity to review their details online and report anything they find in our district offices.”

Additionally, she promised to hand over hard drive copies of the voter register to the various political parties including a template to register any discrepancies.

Source: citinewsroom.com

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October 15, 2024
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Online exhibition of provisional voters’ register begins today

The Electoral Commission (EC) today commenced its online exhibition of the provisional voters’ register, and running until Saturday, October 19, 2024.

In a statement, the EC encouraged voters to verify their details through the shortcode *711*51#, free of charge. This exercise is part of the Commission’s efforts to clean the voters’ register ahead of the final compilation for the 2024 General Election.

The online exhibition allows voters to review their information and report any discrepancies for correction by the Commission.

“Voters can also check their details on our website: https://ec.gov.gh. Simply click on the pop-up link in the bottom-right corner of the screen and enter your 10-digit Voter ID number to access your registration details.

“Any discrepancies found should be reported to the District Office where voters are registered for necessary corrections,” the EC said.

The Commission clarified that while voters can still verify their details online after the exhibition period ends, they will not be able to request any corrections.

Political parties were also urged to submit any discrepancies identified during the exhibition period using the template provided by the Commission.

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October 15, 2024
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Fitch, Moody’s spark confidence in Ghana’s credit rating

Global ratings agencies, Fitch and Moody’s have sparked confidence in Ghana’s Long-Term Local-Currency (LTLC), raising the country’s credit ratings from the previous ones.

While Fitch upgraded the country’s Long-Term Local-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) from ‘CCC’ to ‘CCC+’, Moody’s raised the ratings from the previous levels of ‘Caa3’ and ‘Ca to ‘Caa2.’

The upgrade was driven by the country’s extensive debt restructuring, including the recently completed Eurobond exchange, the two ratings agencies said, noting that the process had eased the government’s financial pressures.

Regarding outlook, Fitch noted that it typically did not assign outlooks to IDRs of sovereigns with a rating of ‘CCC+’ or below, while Moody’s shifted the country’s outlook from ‘stable’ to ‘positive.’

“The upgrade of Ghana’s LTLC IDR to ‘CCC+’ reflects our increased confidence that the likelihood of another default on Ghana’s LC debt is being reduced with the completion of the Eurobond restructuring, as this further unlocks access to concessional international finance,” Fitch noted.

“The ‘positive outlook reflects the potential for liquidity risk to ease amid ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts supported by an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme,’ Moody’s said in a statement last Friday.

Earlier this month, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, Ghana’s Finance Minister, indicated that the country would resume the payment of debt owed its Eurobond holders, following the successful completion of its US$13 billion external debt.

It also came on the backdrop of the country reaching an agreement with the Staff Mission of the IMF on the third review of its ongoing Extended Credit Facility (ECF), of which the external debt restructuring forms a major part.

This is to help in Ghana’s recovery from a near US$30bn debt default in 2022, as the restructuring is expected to cut Ghana’s debt by $4.7bn and offer cash flow relief worth $4.4bn during the IMF programme.

“By the 98 per cent we’ve achieved, we’ve all consented to the exchange, but the actual exchange will take place over the next two weeks, and once we exchange, it means that we can start servicing our debts,” he said.

“We’ll not service at the levels we’d have done because of the reduction in the interest rate and principal… with the Official Bilateral Creditors, the servicing of the debt has been postponed until after 2028,” he added.

Ghana’s economy has shown signs of recovery, with growth hitting 6.9 per cent in the second quarter of 2024, the highest in five years, the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has noted.

At the end of its two-week long third review of Ghana’s programme, Mr Stephane Roudet, Mission Chief for Ghana stated that the country’s economic growth in the first half of 2024 was much higher than initially envisaged.

Source: GNA

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October 15, 2024
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Bawumia is the best to succeed me-Prez Akufo-Addo declares

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo says his Vice, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), is the best Presidential candidate to succeed him.

He said Dr. Bawumia had the competence, capacity, loyalty, concerns of Ghanaians and above all, the love of the country at heart to continue the nation’s development.

He, therefore, urged the electorate in the Savannah Region to vote for Dr. Bawumia at the December 7 polls to build on his legacies.

President Akufo-Addo made these remarks during a ‘Thank You Rally’ at Damongo on Monday, to bid farewell to the people in the Region for their cooperation and support under his presidency.

The President also paid a courtesy call to the Overlord of Gonjaland, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, to thank him for his support and serving as one of the three eminent chiefs to resolve the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute.

He mentioned several initiatives and developmental projects his government undertook in the Region saying under his presidency that the Savannah Region was created and highlighted some of the developmental projects initiated, including the construction of three factories under the One-District, One-Factory, Damongo Water Project (80% complete), 460km of roads being constructed in the region, 10km of roads being asphalted in Damongo, and 300km of feeder roads being gravelled and improved to enhance connectivity.

The President announced that the Daboya College of Education, hitherto under private management, had been absorbed by the government and would be officially inaugurated in two weeks’ time.

On some of the policies and developmental projects his administration undertook across the country, President Akufo-Addo said, so far, 5.7 million students had benefited from the Free Senior High School policy with 1.6 million students currently on enrolment nationwide.

Under One-District, One-Factory, he said, 169 factories had been completed and under operation whilst 152 were under construction and at different stages of completion.

The Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, also the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, touted the achievements of President Akufo-Addo’s Administration in the Region as “unmatched”.

He said since President Akufo-Addo took the reins of government in 2017, his administration had undertaken several projects in the areas of education, healthcare, road infrastructure, water projects and other social interventions.

“President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has assumed a legendary status in the eyes of the Gonja people by granting their request for a region, which they have been asking long before even Ghana attained independence.

“The people of the Savannah Region and Gonjaland have been clamouring and fighting for a region since the 19th century. The people of Gonjaland have petitioned all presidents under the Fourth Republic, and it is President Nana Dankwa Akufo-Addo who finally created the Savannah Region,” Mr Jinapor said, amid shouts and cheers from the audience.

“…in addition to creating this region, you have brought unparalleled development in all facets of human life. Your legacy in education, healthcare, agriculture, road infrastructure, and more is unmatched,” Mr Jinapor stated.

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October 15, 2024
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Nine cholera cases recorded in Greater Accra

Ghana has recorded nine cholera cases in the Ada West and East districts of the Greater Accra Region, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced.

A statement issued by the Service in Accra on Monday said the first case was confirmed on October 4, 2024 in the Ada West District.

It indicated that the infected individual sought treatment at a health facility with symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain a few days after attending a funeral in Ada East and also noted that a cholera case was subsequently confirmed in the Ada East District.

In response, the GHS has activated Public Health Emergency Management Committees (PHEMCs) at all levels to address the situation.

These include a joint multi-sectoral Public Health Emergency Rapid Response Team (PHERRT) comprising members from national, regional, and district levels, as well as representatives from the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the Ghana Education Service (GES), the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and Environmental Health Units from the two affected districts.

According to the GHS, an ongoing outbreak investigation and environmental assessment are being conducted, with alerts sent to all health facilities across the country.

It noted that healthcare workers in the affected areas have been sensitised to cholera case definitions, sample management, and case management adding that a daily active community case search was being carried out, and strict infection prevention and control practices have been enforced in all health facilities.

The Ghana Health Service has advised the public to drink safe treated water, eat well cooked or properly handled food, avoid close contact with infected individuals, practice good hygiene; wash hands with soap under running water, ensure a proper disposal of faces and report to the nearest health facility if experiencing profuse diarrhoea and vomiting.

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October 14, 2024
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COCOBOD announces record producer prices, zero-borrowing milestone in cocoa financing

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has highlighted the Board’s groundbreaking achievements in financing cocoa purchases and supporting farmers through record-setting producer prices.

He stressed COCOBOD’s commitment to empowering cocoa farmers, and boosting the capacity of domestic financial institutions as a cheaper alternative to the reliance on external borrowing and its high dollar-denominated interest rates.

“Since 2017, COCOBOD has worked relentlessly to ensure that our farmers receive the maximum benefit from their hard work. One of the most significant milestones has been the shift from 32 years of external borrowing for crop financing. Today, we have achieved zero borrowing, meaning zero cost of borrowing for financing cocoa purchases,” he said.

Taking his turn at the Ministers’ Press Briefing organised by the Information Minister in Accra yesterday, he indicated that the creative strategy had made COCOBOD less dependent on high-interest external loans by using pre-financing from Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs).

This has improved the system’s overall efficiency, noting that “the new financing model strengthens the capacity of our domestic financial institutions and has eliminated the high-dollar interest rates we used to face.”

“This shift has been a game-changer in reducing financial pressure on the Board and ensuring a more sustainable and cost-effective way of financing,” Mr Boahen Aidoo added.

Increasing producer prices

In addition to financing improvements, the COCOBOD boss disclosed that his outfit’s success was steadily increasing producer prices, offering substantial support to cocoa farmers amongst global price volatility.

“Year-on-year, we have consistently raised the price paid to farmers. In 2024, we made history by increasing the producer price to GHS 48,000 per ton, the highest in Ghana’s history,” he emphasised.

According to Mr Boahen Aidoo, this marks a cumulative increase of 531.58% in producer prices from 2016/17 to the current cocoa season, setting a new benchmark for farmer earnings in the country.

In addition, he noted that this remarkable growth was part of COCOBOD’s broader vision to improve farmer welfare and ensure their long-term financial stability.

“These efforts are not just about short-term gains. We want to ensure that every cocoa farmer in Ghana enjoys long-term security. Our payment of remunerative prices guarantees that they can invest in their farms, improve productivity, and ultimately, enjoy a better quality of life,” he emphasised.

CMS

Mr Boahen Aidoo also highlighted COCOBOD’s introduction of a comprehensive cocoa farmer database and the successful launch of the Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme, which ensures financial independence for farmers in their later years.

“Through our integrated Cocoa Management System, we have registered over 790,000 farmers, which has paved the way for direct payments and pension contributions, ensuring that no cocoa farmer is left behind,” he said.

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October 14, 2024
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Economies of Ghana, others projected to expand by 4.8% in 2024 – World Bank

Excluding Nigeria, Ghana and countries in the West and Central Africa are projected to expand by 4.8% in 2024 and 5.1% in 2025-2026.

According to the October 2024 World Bank Africa Pulse Report, this will be on the back of strong private consumption and capital deepening.

The West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) – made up of only French-speaking countries – is also projected to grow at 5.7% in 2024 and 6.2% in 2025–26.

According to the report, strong growth in Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Niger and Senegal is supporting WAEMU’s performance.

“There are some bright spots in Sub-Saharan Africa despite the tepid recovery in 2024. In 2024, the real GDP growth of 27 countries in the region is expected to accelerate, and eight of these countries are posting growth greater than 5.0%—notably, Côte d’Ivoire (6.5%), Senegal (6.1%), Uganda (6%, and Tanzania (5.4%), among others,” it said.

“A closer look at the past 10 years merits asking whether growth prospects in Sub-Saharan Africa have improved. If so, how many countries in the region have surpassed their pre-pandemic levels of growth of real GDP per capita?” it questioned.

Nearly 40% of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (19 of 47) registered positive growth per capita in 2016–19 and 2022–25, and are outperforming their pre-pandemic performance.

Ten of these countries have annual average growth rates per capita that exceed 3% per year in 2022–25—notably, —notably, Benin, Kenya, Mauritania, Mauritius, Rwanda, and Senegal.

Growth Per Capita

Meanwhile, growth per capita in Ghana and Guinea is decelerating by more than 2 percentage points in 2022–24.

Also, growth per capita in the largest countries in the region—Nigeria and South Africa—remains below 1.0% per year, despite showing a slight improvement compared to the pre-pandemic period.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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October 14, 2024
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Man arrested near Trump rally had two guns and fake passports

A man in illegal possession of a shotgun and a loaded handgun was arrested at an intersection near Donald Trump’s rally in Coachella, California, on Saturday, police said.

The 49-year-old suspect, Vem Miller, was driving a black SUV when he was stopped at a security checkpoint by deputies, who located the two firearms and a “high-capacity magazine”.

Mr Miller was then taken into custody “without incident”, the Riverside County Sheriff’s office said, and booked on possession of a loaded firearm and possession of a high-capacity magazine.

The US Secret Service said Trump “was not in any danger”, adding that the incident did not impact protective operations.

A local sheriff called the suspect a “lunatic” and his office added the encounter did not affect the safety of Trump or the rally’s attendees.

Many questions remain unanswered. While Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco said it was impossible to speculate about what was in the mind of the suspect, he said he “truly believed” that his officers had prevented a third assassination attempt.

He added that it might be impossible to prove that this was the man’s intent. A federal law enforcement official told CBS News there was no indication of an assassination attempt connected to this incident.

Federal authorities say they are still investigating the incident, and it would be up to them to pursue any additional charges.

Mr Bianco is an elected official and a Republican who has previously expressed support for Trump. He is also acting as a surrogate – a representative – for Trump’s re-election campaign.

The incident – which police said took place at 16:59 local time on Saturday (00:59 GMT on Sunday) – highlights, once again, the intense security operation around Trump, and the dangers facing the former president, with just over three weeks to go until the election. It follows two high-profile alleged assassination attempts on Trump earlier this year.

Mr Miller was charged with two misdemeanour weapons charges and was released on a $5,000 (£3,826) bail. No federal charges have been filed.

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October 14, 2024
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EC to hold IPAC meeting on Tuesday; urges political parties to attend with 2 reps

The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that it will hold another Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

This was revealed in a press release issued by the commission on Monday, October 14.

The meeting is expected to bring together key stakeholders in the electoral process to discuss important matters ahead of the 2024 general elections.

According to the EC, the main agenda for the meeting will be the re-exhibition of the Provisional Voter’s Register (PVR).

This follows the ongoing efforts by the Commission to ensure that the voter register is accurate and transparent, allowing for a smooth electoral process.

The EC has been engaging political parties and other stakeholders in this regard to ensure full cooperation and participation.

In the press release, the EC urged all political parties to attend the meeting with a maximum of two representatives.

This limitation on the number of attendees is likely aimed at ensuring that the meeting remains focused and productive, allowing for more efficient discussions on the matters at hand.

The commission hopes to foster continued collaboration with the political parties through this meeting. Just like the previous meeting, the media would be allowed access to the meeting.

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October 13, 2024
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Israel: Over 60 injured in drone attack on Binyamina

More than 60 people have been injured in a drone strike targeting the Binyamina region of northern Israel, medics have said.

The Israeli ambulance service, Magen David Adom (MDA), said 61 people had been injured in the attack – including three critically. It added 37 of them had been taken to eight regional hospitals, either by ambulance or helicopter.

Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for the attack, which it said targeted a training camp of the Israeli Defence Forces’ (IDF) Golani Brigade in the area, which is based between Tel Aviv and Haifa.

The armed group’s media office said the strike was in response to Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon and Beirut on Thursday.

The group said it targeted the camp in northern Israel using a “swarm of drones”.

In a statement, MDA said that alongside the three critically injured, 18 of the victims were in a moderate condition, 31 sustained mild injuries and nine people were “suffering anxiety”.

Israeli censorship rules prevent media outlets saying exactly where or what was targeted, but some media outlets say the location was hit by a low-level drone launched from Lebanon – a relatively unsophisticated weapon that appears not to have activated early warning alarms.

Footage carried by Israeli media showed those wounded being helped into emergency vehicles, including helicopters.

Many of the wounded have been evacuated to Hillel Yaffe Medical Centre in nearby Hadera – with others being taken to hospitals in Tel Hashomer, Haifa, Afula and Netanya.

Details are still scarce but many of the injured appear to have been in a communal canteen at the time and were caught completely by surprise. Images circulating on social media appear to show an empty mess hall with a hole in the roof.

Source: bbc.com

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October 13, 2024
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Gov’t revokes L.I. 2462 to halt mining in forest reserves

The Government has presented to Parliament an instrument to revoke the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) (Revocation) Instrument. L. I. 2462, which regulated mining in forest reserves.

The action was among demands made by Organised Labour when it announced plans to embark on a strike over the negative impact of galamsey.

In a letter dated Thursday, October 10 2024, the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, presented the revocation instrument to the Clerk of Parliament to be laid in accordance with the 1992 Constitution.

In accordance with article 11(7) of the Constitution, the Instrument comes into effect after 21 sitting days of Parliament unless the votes of two-thirds of members of Parliament annul same.

Following a meeting between Organized Labour and government on Tuesday, 8 October 2024, the President in a letter dated 9 October 2024, and addressed to the leadership of Organised Labour, outlined the various measures to address their concerns on galamsey.

As part of the measures, government announced the suspension of mining in forest reserves. A communique from the presidency indicated that “the President has instructed the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, along with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to suspend the enforcement of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2462), with immediate effect.”

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October 13, 2024
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COKA urges SDA members to participate in Dec polls

A former Afigya Kwabre South Constituency Chairman of the NPP, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, has called on the leadership of the Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) to encourage its members to participate in the upcoming December 7 elections, which coincidentally falls on a Sabbath this year.

In a statement, COKA expressed concerns that this scheduling could potentially disenfranchise a significant segment of the electorate.

COKA highlighted the SDA community’s considerable size, stating that the church has a membership of over 800,000, with a youth demographic representing about 70% of this figure. He emphasized the importance of these numbers in shaping the electoral outcome, noting that in past elections, political parties had won with margins as narrow as 50,000 votes.

He indicated that “while the Sabbath holds significant spiritual importance for Adventists, it is essential to remember that the Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, not the other way around”. He urged church leaders to reconsider their stance, and actively promote voting among their congregants. “The SDA numbers can make a change in the 2024 elections. We must not leave them out of this crucial democratic process,” he insisted.

COKA commended the church leadership for taking proactive steps by petitioning Parliament and the Electoral Commission regarding the matter. “I think the leadership of the church has done well to engage with these bodies to lobby for a future change in the law,” he noted. He expressed hope that the legal framework could be revised to allow elections to be held on the first Tuesday of November, thereby accommodating all religious groups.

The push for legislative change is gaining traction, with various stakeholders, including political parties, acknowledging the need for a voting schedule that respects the diverse beliefs within Ghanaian society. “All parties agree that measures must be put in place to ensure that in the 2028 elections, the law is adjusted to favor all religious groups,” COKA remarked.

He added that by mobilizing SDA members to vote, the church could significantly influence the outcome of the elections, reinforcing the importance of civic engagement within faith communities.

He called on all stakeholders to prioritize the participation of every citizen, regardless of their religious observances.

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October 13, 2024
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Akufo-Addo praises Okyenhene’s environmental advocacy

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has praised Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin for his unwavering commitment to combating environmental degradation over the past 25 years.

Speaking at the grand durbar marking the Okyenhene’s 25th anniversary on the throne in Kyebi, the President highlighted Osagyefuo’s advocacy against deforestation, irresponsible mining, water pollution and ozone depletion.

“Your advocacy has evolved into a significant concern for many, inspiring numerous groups to join the fight against irresponsible mining and to protect our environment. You have promoted peace and development in Okyeman, demonstrating dedication and humility,” President Akufo-Addo stated.

He encouraged the Okyenhene to remain focused on his humanitarian efforts, despite facing personal attacks. “If you complain of insults, then what about me?” he remarked with a smile.

In his address, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin expressed gratitude to all who had supported him over the years

He criticised the centralisation of governance in Ghana, and called for a decentralised system that empowers local assemblies to control resources and manage local institutions effectively.

“Kwame Nkrumah initiated the concept of centralizing our resources and governance system; we send all our resources to the national coffers and governance is controlled at the top. This system hasn’t helped us, and we need to change,” he asserted.

The event attracted prominent chiefs from across the nation, including the Ga Mantse, Nungua Mantse, Osu and Manso Nkwanta chiefs, Offinsohene, Yilo Krobo Chief, Kwahu Tafo chief and some Asona chiefs, Okuapehene and other prominent chiefs from the Central and Western region, showcasing a vibrant display of cultural heritage.

The Okyenhene, also known as Asona piesie, remains a significant figure in Ghana’s traditional leadership.

The grand durbar served as the culmination of a series of celebratory events, including divisional durbars in Kukurantumi, Begoro, Asiakwa, Wenchi and Kwaben, allowing the Okyenhene to engage with his chiefs and subjects.

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October 13, 2024
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NDC has lost touch on political grounds – Atta Akyea

Samuel Atta Akyea, the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, has observed that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is losing its political footing, hence the shift away from traditional political rallies towards what he termed “spiritual rallies.”

Speaking to a lively gathering during the NPP running mate’s tour in the Eastern Region, Mr Atta Akyea dismissed recent prophecies from certain religious leaders regarding the upcoming elections as mere human predictions rather than divine declarations.

He stated: “It is disheartening to see the NDC lean on spiritual interventions rather than engaging with the electorate on substantive issues.”

He criticized the party for its reliance on prophecies, and urged Ghanaians to focus on the pressing issues that affected their daily lives, such as the economy, education, and infrastructure development. “Elections are determined by the will of the people through the ballot box, not by spiritual declarations,” he emphasized.

The MP referenced a particular prophecy that purportedly predicted victory for the NDC, noting that the same prophet had previously insulted former President John Mahama. “It is shameful that Mahama cannot see through these lies,” he remarked, urging voters to remain discerning, and not to place undue faith in such predictions.

Mr Atta Akyea called for political engagement rooted in the realities of governance, stating, “We must outline concrete plans for Ghana’s future rather than rely on spiritual assurances. The democratic process remains the legitimate way to choose our nation’s leadership.”

He encouraged Ghanaians to remain optimistic about the prospects of strong governance under the leadership of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh. He reiterated his belief that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was the best choice for the country, particularly highlighting the need to preserve the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, which he claims the NDC threatens to undermine.

“We must work hard to ensure victory in the 2024 elections,” he urged party supporters, stressing that Mahama’s political comeback is improbable. “He is on a spiritual holiday and cannot return to the presidency,” he quipped, urging continued support for his predecessor and current party leadership.

He called for unity and focus within the NPP ranks.

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October 13, 2024
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GHA closes portions of Atebubu-Kumasi highway as White Volta cuts-off communities

The Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) has closed the Prang-Atebubu stretch of the Atebubu-Kumasi Highway in the Bono East Region to traffic, as the white Volta submerged the Nyomoase Bridge on the highway.

The Ghana News Agency (GNA) gathered that several communities along the stretch had been cut off due to the flood, slowing down the movement of the residents and their economic activities. No casualty, has however, been reported.

Mr Emmanuel Okanklu, the Bono East Regional Director of the GHA who confirmed the closure told the GNA that the authority had taken proactive measures and diverted the road to facilitate vehicular movement, traders and motorists.

“The river submerged the Nyomoase bridge and portions of the road connecting communities and thereby making vehicular movement difficult,” he stated, saying visibility on the road remained poorer for drivers and motorists.

In the interim, Mr Okanklu said a cofferdam had been constructed to contain the water on the highway and to create space for commuters, as it put up efforts to remedy the situation.

“We on standby, ready to fix the road as soon as the water levels go down,” he said, and called on the affected communities, drivers and passengers to remain calm.

Mr Kwasi Adu-Gyan, the Bono East Regional Minister had since visited the scene, assuring the affected communities that the situation would be fixed as soon as possible.

Describing the Atebubu-Kumasi highway as a valuable asset, the Regional Minister said the government would ensure that the highway was well maintained, and advised drivers to remain cautious saying security operatives would soon be deployed for enhanced security on the highway.

Source: GNA

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October 13, 2024
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Israel reinforces ban on UN chief entering country over Iran attack comments

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz reinforced on Sunday his decision to declare U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres persona non grata over what he described as a failure to condemn Iran’s missile attack and antisemitic and anti-Israel conduct.

On Oct. 2, Katz said that he was barring Guterres from entering Israel. He posted on X on Sunday that “Guterres can continue seeking support from U.N. member states, but the decision will not change.”

U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric described the initial announcement on Oct. 2 as political and “just one more attack, so to speak, on U.N. staff that we’ve seen from the government of Israel.” He said the U.N. traditionally does not recognize the concept of persona non grata as applying to U.N. staff.

When asked to respond to Katz’s remarks on Sunday, a U.N. spokesperson referred to Dujarric’s earlier comments.

Dujarric also said last week that the U.N. had not received any formal communication from Israel on the matter.

On Oct. 3, the U.N. Security Council expressed its full support for Guterres, saying in a statement that “any decision not to engage with the U.N. Secretary-General or the United Nations is counterproductive, especially in the context of escalating tensions in the Middle East.”

When asked last week if Guterres had been made persona non grata by Israel, Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon told reporters: “There was a statement made … we will evaluate the relationship. We are here at the U.N., we work with the U.N. agencies, but we were disappointed.”

Iran fired more than 180 ballistic missiles at Israel on Oct. 1 amid an escalation in fighting between Israel and its proxy in Lebanon, Hezbollah. Many were intercepted in flight but some penetrated missile defenses.

Guterres condemned the missile attack and “the broadening of the Middle East conflict, with escalation after escalation.” Earlier the same day, Israel had sent troops into southern Lebanon.

During a Security Council meeting a day later, Guterres said: “As I did in relation to the Iranian attack in April – and as should have been obvious yesterday in the context of the condemnation I expressed – I again strongly condemn yesterday’s massive missile attack by Iran on Israel.”

Source: reuters.com

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October 13, 2024
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Cocoa smuggling taskforce seizes 100 bags in Old Akrade

The Anti-Cocoa Smuggling Taskforce of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), in collaboration with national security, has apprehended a driver and a mate at old Akrade in the Asuogyaman district for attempting to smuggle cocoa beans.

According to a national security source who briefed the Ghana News Agency, the taskforce received a tip-off around midnight about individuals transporting cocoa beans to Togo.

Through surveillance, they uncovered a staggering 100 bags of cocoa beans concealed under a load of chippings in a tipper truck with the registration number GN-1773-24.

The source described the operation as decisive one against growing cocoa smuggling in the country, and that it underscored the commitment of authorities to safeguard Ghana’s cocoa industry and combating illegal trading activities aimed at exporting cocoa beans across the border to neighbouring Togo.

“Because of the heavy security officials of the military and immigration at the two tollbooths on the Adomi Bridge, we suspected them to have used a ferry to cross the lake at Senchi so that they would go through Juapong to their preferred location,” the security official said.

Recently, Ghana’s cocoa sector is facing significant challenges due to widespread smuggling, climate change, disease, and illegal mining activities.

Cocoa is also more profitable in Ivory Coast and Togo than in Ghana because of a more stable CFA franc currency and a less regulated sector, according to experts.

By the end of June, Ghana had produced 429,323 metric tons of cocoa, which is less than 55 per cent of the average production at the same point in previous seasons.

According to the anti-smuggling task force, cocoa losses due to smuggling have more than tripled in 2023/24. It is conservatively estimated that the country lost 160,000 tons.

However, efforts by the task force have yielded some marginal results as it was able to intercept about 250 tons, up from 17 tons in 2022/23.

Source: GNA

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October 13, 2024
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United States, Germany Launch $40 million Joint Initiative to Prevent Conflict in Northern Ghana

The United States and Germany have launched a $40 million Coastal States Stability Mechanism (CSSM) regional initiative to strengthen stability in northern Ghana and the coastal West African countries of Benin and Togo.

As a multi-year joint U.S.-Germany conflict prevention initiative, the CSSM works with government counterparts and local communities to strengthen the state’s presence and its relationship with local communities.

The CSSM project is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) and is being piloted from April 2023 to April 2026.

It will be implemented in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in coordination with Ghana’s Ministry of National Security and its Counter-Terrorism Fusion Centre local government institutions and community partners.

Launched jointly in Yendi, Northern Region, by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict and Stabilization Operations Anne Witkowsky and German Director General for Crisis Prevention, Stabilization, Peacebuilding and Humanitarian Assistance, Deike Potzel, the initiative will reinforce civilian security provision in areas under threat of violent extremism.

Ms Anne Witkowsky, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict and Stabilization Operations, speaking at a press briefing in Accra after the launch, said the CSSM project marked an important step forward in its partnership with Ghana as they worked together to enhance resilience and security across coastal West Africa in the face of regional threats.

Ghana, she said, stood out as a leader in the region and the “United States is proud to support the country’s security efforts.”

She noted that the CSSM was part of a broader U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability (SPCPS) in coastal West Africa and beyond.

She reiterated that through the strategy, the U.S. was seeking to enhance social cohesion, improve government responsiveness and support security.

“Through these initiatives, we aim to create lasting impacts that contribute to a more secure and resilient Ghana and the region. When Africa succeeds, the world succeeds,” U.S. Assistant Secretary Witkowsky emphasized and also highlighted the importance of CSSM and the broader U.S. commitment to promoting stability and preventing violent extremism in West Africa.

Ms Witkowsky further underscored, “Through CSSM, we are pursuing an integrated approach to development and security, aligning our efforts with the plans of our partner governments. This holistic approach helps mitigate conflict risks, reduce vulnerabilities, and strengthen social cohesion.”

Mr Daniel Krull, German Ambassador to Ghana, who applauded the trilateral relation between the U.S., Germany and Ghana said, “Ghana was a beacon of democracy and is very close to our hearts and we are very much interested in the success of the democracy in Ghana.”

On Ghana’s upcoming general elections, Mr Krull expressed optimism of a free and fair election, and that “we look with concern on neighbouring states and what impact that might have on security in Ghana”.

That, he stated, was why it was important to work together to enhance resilience, and that the CSSM Project was one of many activities Germany and the U.S. were conducting in Ghana.

Ambassador Krull said Germany’s development portfolio in Ghana amounted to more than $700 million, particularly in the North West Region, where it supports the local development fund and agriculture to build resilience.

Madam Virginia Palmer, U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, also underscored the need to combat violent extremism holistically with diplomacy, defence and development.

She was hopeful that with the long-standing security relations between Ghana and the U.S. some progress could be made in nipping violent extremism in the bud.

She said a recent visit to the U.S., by a Ghanaian security delegation, was a way of demonstrating that Ghana was foundational for the United States in West Africa, a democratic model and exporter of security.

The initiative

It aims to reinforce security, promote community cohesion, improve the capacity and legitimacy of government representatives and services, and advance social and economic development.

The CSSM aligns with Ghana’s National Framework for the Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism and Terrorism and recognizes that a community-oriented approach is required to address key drivers of instability and to mitigate the spread of Violent Extremist Organizations (VEOs).

Using a flexible small-grants mechanism to implement activities tailored to the local context, the CSSM intends to support government action to address localized drivers of instability by expanding and improving the delivery of critical services and supporting community efforts to improve social and economic conditions.

As part of the project launch, some essential equipment were donated to the Chereponi District Hospital and the District Police Service, whose police station is currently being rehabilitated as part of the programme.

This initial effort will fund the installation of 50 solar streetlights in the Wenchiki and Dambu communities, personal protective equipment for the Police Service, a backup solar power system and blood bank refrigerators for the district’s only hospital.

It will also fund a trauma counselling and a Peace Durbar for community stakeholders, and high school debate and quiz competitions centred on peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and ethnic diversity.

Beyond the initial focus on Chereponi, the CSSM programme will expand to select districts in the Upper West and Upper East Regions with programmes and support designed for the needs of those communities.

Source: GNA

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October 13, 2024
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Restoring Ghana’s polluted water bodies could take 15 years – Toxicologist

A Medical Doctor and Toxicologist, Dr. Bright Boafo Boamah, is of the view that it could take 10 to 15 years to fully restore Ghana’s water bodies contaminated by illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, October 12, 2024, Dr Boamah stressed that the severe environmental damage caused by galamsey would require extensive time and effort to restore the water bodies.

He explained that toxic chemicals, including mercury and cyanide, used in illegal mining have deeply polluted many water sources, making the restoration process both complex and lengthy.

He also warned of the serious health risks posed by the contamination, noting that exposure to the toxic substances in the water poses dangers to both human health and wildlife.

“Currently, most of the antibiotics are not responding because normally it’s due to poor use of antibiotics or prescriptions, but it has also been shown that this heavy metal induces some antimicrobial resistance.”

“So, we are not really dealing with a very simple issue and even if we should look at how to restore the water bodies and if we should start now, I think somewhere between 10-15 [Years] to be able to do this and I know there are some water bodies that cannot be restored,” Dr Boamah stated.

He has therefore urged the government to enforce environmental laws strictly and implement sustainable measures to prevent further degradation of Ghana’s natural resources.

He also stressed the need for a collective effort, urging civil society, government, and the general public to take the fight against galamsey seriously.

He cautioned that failure to act swiftly would devastate future generations.

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October 13, 2024
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SpaceX catches giant Starship booster in fifth flight test

SpaceX in its fifth Starship test flight on Sunday returned the rocket’s towering first stage booster back to its Texas launch pad for the first time using giant metal arms, achieving another novel engineering feat in the company’s push to build a reusable moon and Mars vehicle.

The rocket’s first stage “Super Heavy” booster lifted off at 7:25 a.m. CT (1225 GMT) from SpaceX’s Boca Chica, Texas launch facilities, sending the Starship second stage rocket toward space before separating at an altitude of roughly 70 km (40 miles) to begin its return to land.

The Super Heavy booster re-lit three of its 33 Raptor engines to slow its speedy descent back to SpaceX’s launch site, as it targeted the launch tower it had blasted off from. The tower is fitted with two large metal arms.

With its engines roaring, the 233 foot (71 metres)-tall Super Heavy booster fell into the launch tower’s arms, hooking itself in place by its four forward grid fins it used to steer itself through the air.

“The tower has caught the rocket!!” Musk wrote on X after the catch attempt.

The novel catch-landing method is the latest advance in SpaceX’s test-to-failure development campaign for a fully reusable rocket designed to loft more cargo into orbit, ferry humans to the moon for NASA and eventually reach Mars – the ultimate destination envisioned by CEO Elon Musk.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on Saturday approved SpaceX’s launch license for the Starship test, following weeks of tension between the company and its regulator over the pace of launch approvals and fines related to SpaceX’s workhorse rocket, the Falcon 9.

Starship, first unveiled by Musk in 2017, has exploded several times in various stages of testing on past flights, but successfully completed a “full flight in June” for the first time. The two-stage rocket’s Super Heavy booster lifted off from Texas sending the second stage – Starship – on a near-orbital path bound for the Indian Ocean some 90 minutes later, acing a fiery hypersonic reentry.

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October 12, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has advised lawyers not to be part of activities that destroyed the nation.

“Lawyers must not be part of the activities that destroy the national economy, whether it is the political economy, the environmental economy, or the social economy. Lawyers must be those who rally around with knowledge, doctrines, precepts , values, and skills to build a nation up in every circumstance of growth and development. This is a big charge that we all have.”

The Chief Justice, who was speaking at the enrolment of 777 lawyers at the Accra International Conference Centre on Friday, urged the new lawyers to bring up their knowledge to help social engineering so they could take their places in the community of lawyers.

The Chief Justice told the lawyers that when the country was on a high tide, they were to support its shaping.

“In low tide, its lawyers who speak up to shape the new form of the nation. In all of this, lawyers cannot be part of conversations that destroy the nation or break it up. You should leave here resolved to be leaders of your community … with consistently refreshed knowledge in order not to destroy the expectations of society.”

Additionally, she charged the new lawyers to be good citizens and continue to lead in nation building.

“As you leave here with your certificates, you are supposed to use these skills, knowledge and values given in law school to serve our communities. This will include the ability to evaluate, reason, structure and weave applicable law into solving problems.”

She recalled how law had provided the structure and support for proper engineering of society, adding if evil was to be kept at bay, law and lawyering and legality had to be at the front.

The Chief Justice noted that one of the grand issues facing the world was virtual reality and digital technology and how the world was navigating it with legality.

“As part of the global community, Ghana cannot sidestep its participation in every form of the economy that technology is introducing.”

According to her, entertainment had changed, with currency taking on a global character, including everyday trading and communication.

She noted that the era of the internet and artificial intelligence had thrown all into the era of fake news, misinformation and disinformation.

“With all these, we need to be keenly conscious of the fact that human conduct and innovation will never wait for the law. It is law that always has to catch up with human innovation and creativity.”

The Chief Justice appealed to them to embrace technology and embark on continuous education.

She congratulated the lawyers for passing the test of competence and moral character and realising their dreams and goals of becoming lawyers.

Source: GNA

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October 12, 2024
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Wa High Court quashes order of Nandom District Registration Review Officer to delete 197 names

A Wa High Court presided over by the Wa Supervising High Court judge in the Upper West Region, Justice Yussif Assibey has quashed the decision of the District Registration Review Officer (DRRO) of Nandom to delete the names of 197 persons from the voter’s register.

The DRRO of Nandom on September 20, 2024, ordered for the names to be deleted from the electoral roll claiming that the 197 applicants failed to attend the review hearing when they were asked to.

The order to delete the names was given following a complaint from party agents that they were not residents of Nandom, dead or foreign nationals.

he applicants unsatisfied with the ruling took the matter to the Wa High Court praying the court to quash the decision.

The DRRO explained that they gave the order for the names to be deleted from the electoral register after they refused to attend the review hearing after they were notified through phone calls.

The applicants, who were represented by a lawyer, Sylvester Isang strongly denied the assertion. When the DRRO was pinned to the wall he could not ascertain his claim about the phone notification.

The Supervising Wa High Court judge, Justice Yussif Assibey while evaluating the case noted that since the applicants didn’t have the opportunity to defend themselves, they were unfairly treated and for that matter, the action constituted a breach of natural justice.

He therefore quashed the order of the DRRO and ordered that the names of the 197 applicants be included in the voter’s register.

He also ordered the Electoral Commission of Ghana to issue all 197 with biometric identification cards to enable them to take part in the December polls.

There was no legal representation from the Electoral Commission nor the agents who first brought the case to the Nandom DRRO.

Source: myjoyonline.com

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October 12, 2024
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Court bars NPP’s Cynthia Morrison from going independent

A District Magistrate Court at Agona Swedru in the Central Region has issued an injunction against Cynthia Morrison’s candidacy as an independent parliamentary candidate for Agona West Constituency in the Central Region.

The injunction prevents her from presenting herself as a candidate until the court fully resolves an ongoing legal case.

Cynthia Morrison, who previously won the Agona West parliamentary seat for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in 2016 and 2020, decided to run independently after alleging that her party treated her unfairly during the internal primary for the 2024 election.

She announced her decision to run as an independent candidate about three months ago, following her loss in the NPP’s parliamentary primary.

In the April 2024 primary, Morrison garnered 152 votes, while Christopher Arthur secured the nomination with 240 votes.

Despite her loss, Morrison has maintained that her desire to continue developing Agona West informed her decision to contest as an independent candidate in the upcoming election.

With less than two months until the 2024 elections, the court’s injunction casts uncertainty over her candidacy, as the case may not be determined before the election.

The magistrate’s order bars her from campaigning as a candidate until the matter is fully resolved.

Madam Morrison, a former Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, had called on constituents to rally behind her independent bid, insisting her focus remains on the development of Agona West, despite the legal challenges and political hurdles.

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October 12, 2024
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Bawumia’s solution galamsey solution most practical- Nana Aba Anamoah

Nana Aba Anamoah, a broadcaster with 20 years of experience, has described Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s approach to tackling the issue of illegal mining, or “galamsey,” as the most practical she has heard to date.

In a post on X, she expressed her support for the Vice President’s proposals, which emphasize a more structured and sustainable solution to the long-standing environmental issue that has plagued many parts of Ghana.

According to her, Dr. Bawumia’s approach shows a deeper understanding of the complexities involved and offers realistic measures to combat galamsey.

She highlighted that the Vice President’s detailed plans, including technological interventions, could prove effective in addressing the root causes of the problem.

Nana Aba Anamoah further noted that the holistic nature of Bawumia’s strategy sets it apart from previous efforts.

She called on all Ghanaians to back measures that will protect the country’s water bodies and forest reserves, stressing the importance of sustainable development over short-term gains from illegal mining activities.

“I just listened to Dr. Bawumia’s remarks on galamsey. Glad he’s finally commented on the menace. His solution is the most practical one I’ve heard so far. I hope he walks the talk if he gets the mandate,” she posted.

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October 12, 2024
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Police dismiss “falsehoods” over Vormawor’s medical expenses in custody

The Ghana Police Service has dismissed recent social media claims suggesting that Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a political activist and leader of the Democracy Hub, was returned to police custody from the Police Hospital due to a lack of funds to cover his medical expenses.

In an official statement, the police labelled the allegations as “palpable falsehoods” aimed at generating public sympathy for Barker-Vormawor.

The Police Service clarified that all medical expenses incurred during his hospital visit were fully covered by the police, as per their Standard Operating Procedures for suspects in custody.

The Police Service emphasized that they are unable to release specific details of the expenses due to doctor-patient confidentiality.

They also refuted claims that Barker-Vormawor had been rushed to the hospital, describing the reports as baseless and urging the public to disregard them.

This statement comes amidst a series of claims and counterclaims surrounding Barker-Vormawor’s treatment while in police custody, as he faces charges related to his activism and public remarks.

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October 12, 2024
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Moody’s upgrades Ghana’s rating to Caa2

Global credit ratings agency Moody’s has upgraded Ghana’s long-term local and foreign currency issuer ratings to “Caa2” from “Caa3” and “Ca,” respectively.

It cited extensive debt treatment that has significantly alleviated the government’s financial burdens. The agency also revised Ghana’s outlook to “positive” from “stable.”

Moody’s, in a statement, said the “positive outlook reflects the potential for liquidity risk to ease amid ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.”

This restructuring includes a moratorium on debt servicing agreed upon with creditors, which has been vital in easing pressure on public finances.

Ghana and the International Monetary Fund reached an agreement on their third review of the country’s $3 billion loan programme

In October, more than 90% of Ghana’s bondholders approved a $13 billion debt overhaul, paving the way for the gold and cocoa producer to emerge from its near $30 billion debt default in 2022.

Ghana’s debt restructuring is expected to reduce its debt stock by $4.7 billion and provide cash flow relief worth a total of $4.4 billion during the period of the IMF programme, which expires in 2026, the government said in June.

The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) in September indicated that the economy grew by 6.9% in the second quarter of 2024, the fastest in five years.

Moody’s decision is expected to encourage investors to regain confidence in the Ghanaian economy, paving the way for stronger growth prospects in the future.

Ghana appears to be on the right track to overcome its economic challenges, but vigilance is essential in light of the political and economic instability that could still impact the country.

The agency also expects Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio to continue to decline, projecting it will reach 81% by the end of the year, down from 93% in 2022. This reduction is crucial for restoring investor confidence and stabilizing the Ghanaian economy.

The local currency, the cedi, has faced significant depreciation, losing nearly 25% of its value against the dollar this year. Moody’s also said it expects the country’s debt to keep decreasing, though at a slow pace, as the government resumes paying interest and principal on all its debts.

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October 8, 2024
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3 minutes Read

President Akufo-Addo calls for swift adjudication of galamsey cases

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged the Attorney-General to collaborate with the Chief Justice to ensure swift adjudication of illegal mining cases.

He reiterated that all forms of mining in water bodies, as well as reconnaissance, prospecting, exploration and small-scale mining in forest reserves, remained banned, mandating that law enforcement agencies work assiduously to rid the designated red zones of all forms of mining.

These measures are part of the outcome of the recent emergency meeting between the President and organised labour at the Jubilee House, Accra, which sought to find a lasting solution to the illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) menace.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Information at the meeting added that the government would take steps, when the Parliament reconvened this month, to revoke the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L. I. 2462).

“Government reiterates its commitment to the fight against illegal small-scale mining and calls on all stakeholders to join the fight,” the statement said.

It said the meeting discussed the long-standing issue of illegal mining and reviewed the situation and the government’s efforts thus far.

In spite of the development, labour unions have still declared their intention to stage a nationwide strike effective October 10, to express their dissatisfaction at what they described as the government’s lukewarm attitude against illegal small-scale mining.

The Nana Akufo-Addo-led Administration, responding to public outcry against the negative effects of ‘galamsey’, placed a ban on illegal small-scale mining activities in March 2017.

That move stopped both legal small-scale and illegal artisanal miners from carrying out any such activity, in an attempt to recover Ghana’s lost forest cover while addressing pollution of the water bodies.

The bold initiative achieved some significant success as a comparison of the general water quality status of the water bodies in the Pra Basin in 2013 and 2018, using the Water Quality Index (WQI), which showed a marginal improvement in quality in 2018 over that of 2013.

The improvement in water quality was attributable to the ban. ‘Galamsey’ continues to be a threat to forest and water resources in Ghana as the country has recently seen an upsurge in the menace.

This has been condemned by various identifiable groups, including environmental scientists, researchers and civil society organisations.

It is estimated that some 34 major forest reserves in the country have been significantly affected due to illegal small-scale mining, with a total of 4, 726.2 hectares of forests being dissipated or degraded as a result of the mining illegalities carried out in those reserves.

According to the Forestry Commission, some of the worst affected forest reserves are Apamprama, Subin Shelterbelt and Oda River Forest in the Ashanti Region.

The Ministry of Information indicated that the government had resolved to ramp up its enforcement measures, particularly as it related to prohibiting illegal mining in water bodies and forest reserves.

“Water bodies and forest reserves remain red zones for mining,” the statement emphasised.

Source: GNA

Opinion

goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
October 8, 2024
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8 minutes Read

BMW breaking the 8, JM ditching the 8, and the GH politics of ‘ways and means’

When we were kids playing football, we saw our coaches and team managers do some juju or voodoo gimmicks before and after ‘colts or under 18 and 20 football matches.

At Primary and Elementary school levels, however, we saw a few teachers do that. But, again, it wasn’t a practice like we had in community football up to organised football in the Greater Accra Region and for an endowed football club like Future Internationals, which played teams outside Accra, into the Eastern and Central regions, including the Swedru All Blacks Park.

At SHS, you hardly saw that, because the PE Master didn’t or wouldn’t do it – educated as he was. Again, you didn’t find that in netball or volley or hockey and athletics.

In the case of boxing, we would hear that Sulley Shitu, an aspiring world title holder, would be complaining that he never saw blows coming. All he saw was that it had hit him hard. He was a Muslim. He ended up quitting, despite his potential.

As for the national league, juju or voodoo was a healthy practice, and that was why Kofi Bruce in a match with Eleven Wise would target Sanni Abdulai and snatch his leather necklace that was suspected to be voodoo and a charm against the ball entering Sanni Abdulai’s net.

PNDC

We heard about Nkrumah and the Kankan Nyame. We cannot tell whether that was fact or fiction. And, we heard about Kotoka and Ankrah as well as Major Adekunle who when you thought you had killed him during the civil war in Nigeria appeared at another battle.

As for the PNDC, ‘ways and means’ was ten amulets a cedi. That was why the regime had a prayer leader and Prophet who was traditional and another a Roman Catholic dissident who loved pouring libation. Intriguingly, when both men died, the NDC and the PNDC were nowhere to be seen during the funeral.

In the case of Osofo Komfo Damuah, it was because his spiritual activities were something else, away from the regular. He ended up using his trade to hijack space at the former Association International before court litigation recovered the space for original owners.

Samuel K. Obeng, retired police detective and Prophet, would continue his ministry faithfully, advising JA Kufuor, Otumfuo and a few notable and eminent citizens pro bono. He resigned not a rich person, living in a modest Madina Estate with tight living rooms and surroundings.

He also advised Prof JEA Mills, though JEA would later begin dodging Tugya, who became my friend when I was at The Chronicle. But, by and large, politicians seeking divine support and direction is African and European, including almighty Nigeria. What is wrong or has been wrong in the case of Africa is that most of such prophets have been controversial.

Hero and villain

As far as I know, Ghana’s current credible prophets, after Tugya and Enoch Agbozo – don’t know where Enoch is – are Duncan Williams, Adom Kyei Dua, Yaw Annor and this indigenous Ga and Ukraine-trained Economist Dr Lawrence Tetteh.

There must certainly be others, but these have been around for quite long.

Unfortunately, being a prophet is not only a thankless job from biblical times; it is also a controversial and, sometimes, intriguing trade. Today, you are hallowed and hailed; the next moment you are vilified, like the PNDC and NDC did to my old pal Tugya.

That, I suspect, is the case of Prophet Owusu Bempah. And I am not surprised that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea, has put him down, and downplayed recent prophecies made by Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah, head pastor of the Glorious Word Power Ministries International, regarding the upcoming December 7 elections.

According to Atta Akyea, these predictions should be viewed as mere human projections, rather than divine certainty.

On October 1, Rev. Owusu Bempah prophesied that John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), would emerge victorious in the 2024 elections.

During a prayer session in Accra for Mr Mahama, the pastor claimed that God had elected to give Mahama another opportunity to lead the nation, praising him as a man with a good heart. Despite these claims, Atta Akyea, in an interview with AsaasePa FM on October 2, cautioned against placing too much importance on such prophecies.

He stated that while many people may hold different religious or spiritual beliefs, elections are ultimately decided by the will of the people through the ballot box, not supernatural predictions.

The MP stressed the importance of focusing on the issues at hand, and allowing voters to make informed decisions based on policies and leadership qualities rather than relying on prophecies.

Owusu Bempah made history when, alone in Rome, he openly fought the NDC from 2016 till 2020.

He was viewed as a sympathiser of the NPP after he made similar prophecies in the past, and even prayed for Nana Akufo-Addo prior to him becoming the President. Only God knows what may hurt Owusu Bempah in covering the NPP and its presidential fortunes – when not quite long ago, he openly prayed Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in as God’s anointed President for 2024. Something may have changed in Mahama’s stars as well as that of Dr Bawumia, one, for good and the other for ill…

According to the defection story, when the group laid hands on the former President, the prayers were sealed by Rev. Owusu-Bempah.

“This is whom you ELOHIM have elected to lead Ghana at a time like this. No power can stop it. It is through you that this country will see development,” the preacher prayed.

The founder and leader of Royal House Chapel International, Rev. Sam Korankye Ankrah, the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Church, Rev. Dr. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, Rev Kwaku Agyei Antwi, popularly known as Rev. Obofour, among others were present.

That marked the first major meeting of this kind by the NDC flagbearer with members of the clergy ahead of the December 7 polls.

Break the 8; Ditch the 8

Eight is a number that theologians refer to Abrahamic. It means trailblazing as sign. That covenant, the theologians insist, was consummated on the eight day. That deal – sealed by a blood sacrifice – would birth Isaac and Israel’s ultimate blessings jibe that strongman Bibi keep throwing at Hezbollah, Houthi, Hamas and the goons in Iran.

So, analysing the “8” that Mahama claims he has already ditched, will he be able to trail blaze – after slipping in 2012 to be saved by the bell; falling KO in 2016 and falling TKO in 2020.

If that is Prophet Owusu’s Bempah’s reading, let us see how it goes with the last cast of the votes and last count and declaration by the EC or another annoying Election Petition with a calculator thrown at the Mischief Mosquito.

I have been listening to propagandists and their street reading of the flagbearer perming by the EC. Some argue that since we have a history of excessive wastes in ballots, the victim might be JM, probably to the benefit of the vociferous BMW.

Looking through the tall bunch of faces with JM not quite as baby face as he was, the propaganda is that he looks victim as voters sweat to look for his face and image among the pile that may have included Red Beret Bernard Monah, but for cousin Adukwei’s ‘mischief.’

As for the BMW, he must be glad for a Numero Uno slot on the list. The propaganda is as massive as has been the anti-government propaganda in galamsey, though the UN advises a common front by stakeholders in effectively fighting galamsey.

That is why I have a gripe with the TUC for making it look like the NDC didn’t benefit from the galamsey fight. The persistence on the strike also makes it look like the TUC has an agenda to do something that ultimately benefits the NDC, when its flagbearer in 2016 and 2020 was openly egging on illegal miners to perpetuate the illegality, though he JM lost a military officer nephew in the fight against galamsey.

This is December 9 afternoon at 3pm…Party chiefs using their Excel software have tallied up their numbers from Zanlerigu up North to Zongos down South, and from Chuchuriga and Chiana to Chorkor…An eerie quiet has clouded the nation.

The EC and her team of vilified ‘villains’ are seated to announce the figures and declare the verdict…And the winner by 30,000 votes is No…Come see the Zongos…Walahi…Am I a Prophet? No, I only know the Prophets…

By Abena Baawuah

goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
October 8, 2024
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2 minutes Read

GMA directs members to maintain full services

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has called on its members to “continue providing full services without interruptions,” despite the upcoming nationwide industrial action announced by Organised Labour, which is set to commence on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, GMA President Dr. Frank Serebour clarified, “The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has not declared a roadmap for industrial action. Therefore, all members are expected to continue providing full services without interruptions.”

He also expressed the GMA’s solidarity with Organised Labour in its campaign against illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” but emphasized that the GMA would not be joining the strike yet.

“The GMA, however, is in solidarity with Organised Labour in this fight against galamsey. The National Executive Council (NEC) will provide further information when necessary,” Dr. Serebour added.

The government on Monday expressed surprise at Organised Labour’s decision to proceed with the strike, despite ongoing negotiations and efforts to address the illegal mining issue.

The government announced plans to revoke the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2462) when Parliament reconvenes later this month, as part of its broader strategy to intensify enforcement against illegal mining, particularly in water bodies and forest reserves, which are classified as “Red Zones.”

A statement signed by Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar on Monday, October 7, outlined the government’s stance on illegal mining. The statement emphasized that law enforcement agencies have been fully empowered to crack down on illegal mining activities within these protected areas.

Additionally, the Attorney-General will collaborate with the Chief Justice to ensure swift adjudication of cases related to illegal mining, reinforcing the government’s determination to curb the environmental devastation caused by the practice.

The government also expressed its support for a proposal requiring all presidential candidates to sign a pact committing to the fight against illegal mining, aiming to depoliticize the issue and foster unified national action against the menace.

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October 8, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Small-scale miners announce protest against Organised Labour

The Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana has announced its intention to stage a protest on Friday, October 11, 2024, in response to Organised Labour’s call for a nationwide strike against small-scale mining.

The demonstration is set to take place through the principal streets of Accra, as members of the association voice their opposition to Organized Labour’s stance on the issue, which they believe unfairly targets their livelihood.

In a press statement addressed to the Inspector-General of Police, the association expressed concern over the planned strike, which is scheduled to begin on Thursday, October 10, 2024. Organized Labour, representing various unions and workers’ groups, is threatening to embark on industrial action as a means to pressure the government into tackling the problem of illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.”

The association argued that Organized Labour’s approach would not solve the longstanding issue of illegal mining. “We firmly believe that Organised Labour’s stance is not the solution to this century-long problem. What we need is a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of illegal mining,” the statement read.

The association emphasised that small-scale mining was a legal activity in Ghana under the Minerals and Mining Act 2006, Act 703, and that responsible miners should not be punished for the actions of a few recalcitrant illegal miners. “The wrongs of a recalcitrant few cannot be used to ban all other small-scale mining firms undertaking responsible mining,” the statement continued.

They also described Organised Labour’s call for a ban on small-scale mining as “counterproductive, politically motivated, and an attempt to shut down our source of livelihood.”

The association pointed out that galamsey had already been banned in Ghana, and any attempt to further ban legitimate small-scale mining would only frustrate those abiding by the law.

The upcoming protest will call on Organized Labour to reconsider its position, and work with stakeholders to develop more effective solutions to the challenges posed by illegal mining. “We urge them to desist from demonizing our trade and to support various stakeholders in fashioning out workable solutions to mitigate the threats associated with illegal mining,” the statement urged.

Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association, led by President Philip Bawah and General Secretary Mark Conduah, expressed hope for cooperation from the Ghana Police Service to ensure a peaceful demonstration.

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October 8, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Bawumia has disarmed NDC’s ethnocentric strategy- Kwabena Agyepong

Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Senior Campaign Advisor to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, has stated that Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy has effectively disarmed the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), neutralizing the party’s ethnocentric campaign strategy.

In an interview on Channel One TV’s The Point of View, Mr. Agyepong explained that the NDC had historically relied on an ethnically charged narrative to portray the NPP as an “Akan party” in an effort to win over voters, particularly from the northern regions and Zongo communities. However, he said, this narrative had been significantly disrupted with the election of Dr. Bawumia, Northerner and Muslim, as the NPP’s 2024 flagbearer.

According to Agyepong, Dr. Bawumia’s selection signalled a new chapter in Ghanaian politics, where ethnicity and religion no longer defined party allegiance. He noted that Dr Bawumia’s candidacy exemplified the NPP’s commitment to inclusivity and national unity, moving beyond traditional ethnic lines.

“This is the first time in Ghana’s political history that the NPP has selected a Northern Muslim as its flagbearer, and this has completely disarmed the NDC’s ethnocentric propaganda, which they have used to great effect since the 1980s,” Mr. Agyepong noted.

He pointed out that, for decades, the NDC had leaned on the historical Alien Compliance Order and similar events to foster ethnic divisions, accusing the NPP of marginalizing people from northern Ghana. With Dr. Bawumia leading the NPP, Mr Agyepong believes the opposition’s main weapon has been taken away.

“I’m pretty confident that we may surprise a few in Accra. For the first time, electing Dr. Bawumia has disarmed the NDC of their most potent propaganda weapon. Since 1982, they have been masters in ethnocentric campaigns, labeling the NPP as an Ashanti or Akan party. But now, that message has no foundation,” he emphasised.

Mr Agyepong further recalled how NDC members, including its General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey, doubted whether the NPP would ever allow Dr. Bawumia to lead, due to his background. “Their candidate publicly questioned whether Dr. Bawumia would be given the nod, saying the NPP was an ‘Akan party’ that would never allow a Northerner to lead. But the party thought otherwise, and voted overwhelmingly for Dr Bawumia, with 61% of the vote. Now, the NDC is struggling to find a coherent message,” he remarked.

Despite the challenges the NPP faces, including internal divisions, Mr. Agyepong expressed confidence in the party’s prospects ahead of the 2024 general elections. He highlighted Dr. Bawumia’s leadership as a unifying force that strengthens the party’s appeal, particularly in swing regions such as Greater Accra.

He also noted the NPP’s growing influence in traditionally NDC-dominated areas, stating, “We’re now fighting them on their turf, in areas we previously didn’t have a strong presence. Our grassroots support is very strong, and with Bawumia at the helm, we are positioned to win over voters in regions where the NPP was once less competitive.”

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October 7, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Bawumia launches CitizenApp sytem

Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia says as a country that has missed three previous revolutions that many nations took advantage of to become developed countries, the Akufo-Addo government has given meaning to Ghana’s development through digitisation.

He noted that before 2017, the analog approach to delivering public services not only slowed economic progress, but also stifled innovation and left large segments of the population with very limited access to essential services.

He however said the situation changed through the government’s commitment to ensuring that Ghana fully embraced this transformation.

“Under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, we have made digitalization a central pillar of our economic strategy, recognizing that the fourth industrial revolution is already happening, and it is reshaping the global landscape… we must not miss this 4th revolution,” he said.

“We must seize the opportunities that this 4th industrial revolution presents. There is mounting empirical evidence that highlights the transformative potential of digital innovation to create jobs, boost productivity, increase income levels, and foster wealth creation. Countries with robust digital economies experience faster growth, more innovative service offerings, and greater job creation,” Dr. Bawumia said when he launched the CitizenApp, a groundbreaking mobile application designed to improve public service delivery and citizen engagement in Accra.

The Vice-President noted that before 2017, several government agencies operated under traditional, manual processes across critical sectors, which often led to inefficiencies, delays and significant bottlenecks in service delivery.

He said government services, for instance, required long queues, multiple in-person visits, and frustrating paperwork. At the time, there was minimal investment in building the digital infrastructure necessary to support widespread digital transformation, and technology was viewed more as an add-on rather than a core element of national economic strategy.

He indicated that, as the world entered the fourth industrial revolution, it had become obvious that no economic strategy could succeed without a strong digital foundation.

“In key areas such as public administration, trade, education, financial inclusion and healthcare, the absence of digital systems meant that processes were slow, non-transparent, and prone to errors. For example, vehicle registration involving numerous manual steps, requiring citizens to physically visit multiple offices to complete the process,” he pointed out.

Pointing to the many positive impacts of Ghana’s digital transformation, he touched on the use of Mobile Money (MoMo), which had been a catalyst for economic growth and financial inclusion.

“Today, mobile money has become one of the most important financial tools in the country, allowing millions of Ghanaians to engage in the formal economy, send and receive payments, save money, and access credit…One of the most profound impacts of mobile money has been its role in bridging the gap between the formal and informal economies,” he said.

Touching on the newly launched platform, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the app’s potential to streamline processes, reduce bureaucracy, and foster greater transparency and accountability within government operations.

“What Ghana has done many advanced countries have not yet done it. So we are moving in a direction that has major opportunities…Once the system comes in doing business in Ghana will be very easy and smooth, paying taxes will be very easy, getting your passport, will be very easy, registering a business is very easy,” he said.

“It is going to make life easier for the citizens and this system also allows the government to communicate with the citizens. This is an exciting development in our digitalisation journey,” he stated.

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October 7, 2024
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1 minute Read

Minerals Commission refutes understaffing claim

The Minerals Commission of Ghana has firmly refuted claims of understaffing, asserting that it possesses adequate resources to fulfil its inspection and regulatory duties.

Speaking during a parliamentary hearing before the Government Assurances Committee yesterday, Martin Ayisi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, addressed concerns regarding reports of staffing challenges.

Ayisi reassured the committee that the Commission had both the personnel and logistics needed to effectively oversee the mining sector.

Ayisi’s remarks come in response to widespread reports suggesting the Commission was facing operational difficulties due to staffing shortages.

However, the CEO confidently dismissed these allegations, emphasizing that the Commission was well-equipped to manage its responsibilities efficiently.

“Capacity-wise, I think we’re okay. I was listening to the news this morning, and I heard one of the radio stations talking about capacity, [that] we’re understaffed; it’s not the case. In fact, I heard someone say that our 7 inspectors have been dismissed, but that is not the case.

“In terms of resources for training, in terms of resources to hire more people, we are okay,” he said.

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October 7, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Economic turnaround driving companies back to Ghana- Finance Minister

The Minister of Finance, Mohammed Amin Adam, says foreign companies are returning to Ghana due to the country’s economic rebound.

He said that just as it was heard of some foreign companies exiting the country due to economic hardship, many had started returning, owing to the positive growth in the first half of 2024.

“We were told that some companies left Ghana when the economy went down, and it’s important to note that companies are returning to Ghana because they see that the growth trajectory is positive,” he said.

“The latest is Virgin Atlantic (an airline company that left the country in 2013), which said only yesterday (October 6, 2024) that they’ve returned to Ghana to operate as an airline because they see economic recovery,” he noted during the second Quarterly Economic Roundtable discussion yesterday in Accra.

The event, jointly organised by the Ministry of Finance and the University of Ghana, was under the theme “Driving economic growth through Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

The Finance Minister indicated that some other companies were also returning to the country, but yet to be heard of.

“Let’s get ready for them to build strong partnerships, and use that capital, expertise, and technology that they’re bringing in so that we can leverage them to support the growth of the economy,” Dr Amin Adam told Ghanaian businesses.

Referencing figures from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), he stated that the economic growth for 2024 was exceeding every expectation, prompting major analysts and keen observers to revise their projections upwards.

The Minister noted that the country’s half-year Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 5.8 percent for 2024 was the highest in the last five years, which was a testament that the economy was “back on track.”

“It is fascinating to note that the growth of 4.8 percent in quarter one and 6.9 percent in quarter two was driven largely by industry and agriculture sectors, for quarter two, all three sectors, including services drove the growth,” he said.

“What this means is that we are back on track. It also means that our policies to support the private sector are having a significant impact. Economic actors in these sectors are receiving needed support,” the Finance Minister said.

He encouraged all Ghanaians to be guided by unity of purpose on SMEs to consolidate the strides made in fiscal consolidation, debt restructuring, and economic reforms.

Pledging the government’s sustained support to SMEs, he said, “You are not alone or lonely. You are a priority of the Ghanaian society and this Government. We will not fail you.”

Mr Kyle Kelhofer, Senior Country Manager, International Finance Corporation (IFC), noted that the current macroeconomic landscape in Ghana required a resilient, flexible and innovative structure.

He called for a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including financial institutions, academia, government, and the private sector, to drive sustainable economic growth through SMEs.

Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana, encouraged all stakeholders to ensure that the ideas and recommendations from the discussions were translated into actions that would improve development outcomes and the wellbeing of Ghanaians.

She reiterated that SMEs remained the backbone of the Ghanaian economy, providing jobs, and contributing significantly to GDP.

She recommended that policy interventions be directed at solving the cumbersome regulatory processes, limited access to finance, complex tax systems, and high utility tariffs, which often hampered the growth of SMEs.

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October 7, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Best is yet to come with CitizenApp – NITA DG

The Director-General of the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), Richard Okyere-Fosu, says the best is yet to come in Ghana’s tech space as the launch of the CitizenApp Data Interoperability System (CADIS) marks a defining moment for the country.

He described the initiative as a new era of connectivity, where citizens have the power to access government services in a way that suits their lives, and not the other way around.

Speaking at the launch of the CADIS yesterday in Accra, Mr Okyere-Fosu said the system would benefit every Ghanaian by reducing bureaucracy, increasing transparency, and delivering real convenience.

“I am incredibly proud of the work we have done with our partners across the government to bring CADIS to life. When we first began this journey to develop the CitizenApp, the vision was clear: to create a digital platform that would unify the hundreds of government agencies, enabling them to share data efficiently and securely, all in service of the citizens,” he said.

“After three years of hard work and the collaboration of several government agencies, I am excited to say that today, we have achieved that goal. We now have a system that brings government services into the hands of every Ghanaian, making processes smoother and interactions more efficient than ever before,” he added.

Mr Okyere-Fosu highlighted the convenience that also comes with using the App citing an instance where the burden of submitting a bunch of documentation by a young graduate applying for a passport to pursue opportunities abroad is lifted.

“In the past, they would have had to gather multiple documents from various institutions—birth certificates, ID cards, proof of address—and manually fill out lengthy forms. With CADIS, that burden is lifted. The system allows agencies to access the necessary data instantly,” he explained.

“The graduate’s Ghana Card and other information are already available, enabling the passport office to verify details and process the application in record time. This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating a system that respects people’s time,” he added.

Mr Okyere-Fosu further disclosed that “another exciting use case is the process of registering a new employee for pension benefits. Businesses and organizations can now rely on CADIS to share employment and identification details with pension agencies like SSNIT, eliminating delays and inefficiencies.”

“The new employee doesn’t have to make multiple trips to different agencies to ensure their pension contributions are registered correctly. This is critical because it ensures that people can start building their future security without administrative bottlenecks,” he pointed out among other things.

He commended the management of NITA for their tireless effort, the leadership of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and all the government agencies that played a part in making the vision a reality.

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October 5, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Ghana Health Service ready to contain Mpox outbreak

Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has assured the public of the country’s preparedness to contain any potential Mpox outbreak.

In response to a question about Ghana’s readiness in an Eyewitness News interview on Citi FM on Thursday, Dr Asiedu-Bekoe highlighted several key measures that have been put in place to ensure effective surveillance and response.

“So I think that what is good for Ghana is the sensitivity of our surveillance system,” Asiedu-Bekoe stated. “What we have done is that we have set case definitions – what will make people look for suspect cases, so that is the first step.”

He emphasised that Ghana is well-equipped to confirm Mpox cases, a capability that only 30% of African countries possess.

“We have the capacity to confirm. In Africa, it is only 30% who have the ability to confirm, and yet in Ghana, we have two labs – we have Noguchi, we have our reference lab. So these are big pluses for us.”

Asiedu-Bekoe also noted the availability of treatment facilities, particularly for severe cases, which are a legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“If they have a severe case, we have treatment centres which I will say are legacies from COVID. So these are pluses.”

However, he acknowledged the need for ongoing efforts to enhance preparedness.

“We need to now do more training. We also need to make sure that the health workers have enough PPEs so that they don’t get themselves infected, and then we also try to make sure that we create the necessary awareness.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

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October 5, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Democracy Hub Protesters file suit against IGP, AG

Thirty-two protesters from the Democracy Hub have filed a lawsuit against the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, alleging violations of their human rights.

They are seeking a declaration that the conduct of the Ghana Police Service in disrupting the peaceful protest violated Article 21(d) of the 1992 Constitution, Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Article 11 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The protesters were among 53 individuals arrested during a peaceful demonstration that took place between September 21 and 23, which turned violent after clashes with the Police.

The Ghana Police Service accused the protesters of blocking roads, dismantling barriers, obstructing traffic, and damaging property at Accra’s 37 Roundabout.

Out of the 53 arrested, nine are currently in prison, while the rest remain in police custody. The prosecution has denied any mistreatment of the accused, asserting that they were properly cared for, including being provided meals from the popular restaurant Papaye. This claim, however, sparked outrage from defense lawyers.

The Group being presented by Mr Francis-Xavier Sosu, was also demanding a declaration that the respondents had violated the applicants’ rights to liberty and security of their person and freedom from unlawful and arbitrary arrest and detention enshrined in Article 14 of the 1992 constitution.

They said the respondents also violated Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; Principles 2 and 11 of the Body of Principles for the protection of all persons under any form of detention or imprisonment and Article 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

They also want a declaration that respondents have violated applicants’ right to legal representation enshrined in Article 14(2) of the 1992 constitution of Ghana.

“We seek a declaration that denying the Applicants basic necessities while in detention violated their right to human dignity as enshrined in Article 15 of the 1992 constitution, Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 10 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,” they said.

They also sought a declaration that the detention of some Applicants for more than 48 hours before bringing them before a court violated their rights under Article 14(3)(b) of the 1992 constitution.

The applicants want a declaration that the force used by Respondents on Applicants was excessive, unreasonable, and unjustifiable.

A Declaration that the conduct of Respondents is in breach of the standards of fairness and reasonableness under Article 23, proper use of discretion under Article 296, and all implied rights inherent in a democracy intended to secure the freedom and dignity of man which include the right not to be subjected to arbitrary and malicious prosecution under Article 33(5) of the 1992 Constitution, the prayed.

An order directed at the Respondents to pay to the Applicants compensation for unlawful and unwarranted breach of the Applicants’ fundamental human rights.

Source: GNA

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October 5, 2024
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2 minutes Read

NPP PCs urged to spend at least 4 days weekly in constituencies

The leadership of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a directive mandating all its parliamentary candidates to spend a “minimum of four days per week” in their respective constituencies to strengthen their campaign efforts ahead of the upcoming December 7 general elections.

According to the press statement issued by the General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong on Friday, October 4, the party has observed that some parliamentary candidates are not consistently present in their constituencies.

It said that the lack of engagement raises concerns about the potential impact on the party’s performance in both presidential and parliamentary elections.

“You should know that this lack of engagement would significantly affect our electoral fortunes in both presidential and parliamentary elections,” part of the statement read.

In light of this, the party has taken the matter seriously and expects all parliamentary candidates to dedicate sufficient time to engage with constituents.

The party has also directed regional campaign teams to monitor and report on the activities of the candidates.

“The regional campaign teams are hereby directed to submit weekly reports of the activities of their parliamentary candidates to the National Secretariat. We trust in your usual attention and cooperation in this matter,” the statement added.

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October 5, 2024
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2 minutes Read

Nationwide strike not solution to galamsey crisis – Prof. Nyarko

Deputy Minister of Education, Prof. Kingsley Nyarko, has appealed to Organised Labour to reconsider its planned nationwide strike over galamsey concerns.

Speaking at the Ghana Teacher Prize in Kumasi, on Thursday, October 3, Prof. Nyarko emphasised that industrial action isn’t the best approach, instead advocating for more dialogue among stakeholders.

He made this appeal following Organised Labour’s declaration of a strike, slated for October 10, in response to the government’s inaction on declaring a state of emergency due to galamsey‘s devastating impact.

Prof. Nyarko, who is also the Member of Parliament for Kwadaso, stressed the need for a collaborative solution.

“Strikes and demonstrations are not necessarily the solutions in addressing issues or meeting the demands of individuals. That is not the best way to go.

“For me, it’s more about dialogue, because the government and individuals are concerned about the activities of galamsey. The government has put in place interventions to deal with this issue.

“It demands collective efforts not only from the government but from other civil society and the media should be involved as well, chiefs, traditional leaders, the clergy and everybody must come on board for us to deal with it

“I will plead with Organised Labour that instead of embarking on strike we don’t know when it will end, the best way is to keep engaging the authorities for us to come to a meaningful, progressive and productive solution to this particular problem. Industrial action will only lead to a reduction in productivity that will affect our revenue.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

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October 5, 2024
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1 minute Read

Ghana commends Korea for its reliable partnership

The Government of Ghana has commended Korea for its steadfast reliability as a partner and its commitment to strengthening its ties with Africa.

Speaking at the 4,356th Korean National Foundation Day in Accra, Dr. Stephen Amoah, the Deputy Finance Minister said the vision of “shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity” outlined at the Korea-Africa Summit provided a solid foundation for future cooperation and exemplified the collective commitment to mutual growth, innovation, and cooperation.

He was hopeful that the commitments made at the Korea-Africa Summit, and the call for Korean businesses to explore the abundant opportunities that existed in Africa, would be realized to ensure the full potential of our partnership.

Recounting President Nana Akufo-Addo’s remarks at the summit, he emphasized Ghana’s potential as an attractive investment destination and the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation, in the areas of trade, investment, and infrastructure.

“In this vein, I wish to stress that Ghana is committed to further creating a favourable business environment for investment to maximize the benefits of Ghana-Korea cooperation,” he assured.

Dr. Amoah further expressed optimism of a “fruitful relationship, building on our successes, and exploring new avenues for cooperation that will benefit both Ghana and Korea.”

GNA

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October 5, 2024
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3 minutes Read

Korea’s development assistance to Ghana surpasses $400 Million

The Republic of Korea has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting Ghana’s development agenda, with its financial assistance to the West African nation now exceeding $400 million.

The significant investment, spanning multiple sectors, underscores Korea’s dedication to deepening its cooperation with Ghana, fostering economic growth, and enhancing bilateral ties between the two countries.

Relations between Ghana and Korea date back over four decades with fruitful cooperation in various fields, including political, economic, and cultural since the establishment of diplomatic relations in November 1977.

Korea remains one of Ghana’s most important partners in trade and investment cooperation with long-standing friendship.

Mr Park Kyongsig, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Ghana, said with the many development agencies in Ghana, including Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Korean Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), Korea Programme for International Cooperation in Agricultural Technology (KOPIA) and Korea EXIM Bank, it was proof of Korea’s willingness to work with Ghana to achieve its prosperity.

The Ambassador, speaking at the 4,356th Korean National Foundation Day in Accra, said, the future relationship between Korea and Africa, including Ghana, was based on “3S – Shared Growth, Sustainability and Solidarity.”

The 4,356th Foundation Day celebration, characterized by traditional Korean performances, was attended by the Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr Stephen Amoah, the Diplomatic Corps, Korean community and businesses in Ghana.

The night of celebration unfolded with soothing display by Kim Hee Young, who played the “Daegum” (Korean musical instrument) and delivering a spellbinding and electrifying performance to the applause of patrons.

Celebrated each year on October 3, the Korea National Foundation Day commemorates the historic founding of the first Korean Kingdom.

Among others, the Korean Ambassador said, the Korean Government had made commitments to expand its Official Development Assistance (ODA) and its export financing to 10 billion dollars and 14 billion dollars respectively by 2030.

Amb. Kyongsig assured that Korea would assist the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

As part of its development cooperation, he said the Accra office of the Korea EXIM Bank had been at the core of the signing of two billion dollars Framework Arrangement between Korea and Ghana during the Korea-Africa Summit, and that the office was ready to engage more in Ghana’s infrastructure development.

The Ambassador said KOIKA had worked in Ghana from 2010 and spearheaded several development projects in various sectors like education, agriculture, healthcare, and the major projects to contribute to Ghana’s Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) policy.

For instance, the KOPIA Ghana Centre, has created premium rice seeds, including “KoreaMo” and “Agyapa”, the combination of Korean and Ghanaian seeds, and provided 300 tons of the rice seeds to Ghanaian farmers through the Ministry of Agriculture, Amb. Kyongsig stated.

In Education, he observed that the Korea’s scholarship programmes, including the Korean Government Scholarship Programme (GKS) and the KOICA Fellowship Programme, had assisted more than 1,700 Ghanaians.

He noted that the Korea-Ghana relations was well characterized in terms of the economic cooperation as many Korean companies, such as Samsung and LG Electronics, had engaged the Ghanaian market and expanded their business to West Africa with business hubs in Ghana.

“Hyundai and KIA vehicles from Hyundai Motors and Rana Motors, are proudly made in their assembly plants in Ghana,” he said.

Source: GNA