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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

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.

PS

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

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.

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.

 

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.”

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Ghana leads in promoting responsible business and workers’ welfare

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has recognized Ghana for its leadership in advancing decent work and safeguarding workers’ rights.

It said that the country had implemented social policies that promote inclusive, responsible, and sustainable workplaces.

The ILO particularly commended Ghana for designating the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) as the focal point for implementing the Multinational Enterprises and Social (MNE) declaration.

The declaration acknowledges the crucial role of multinational enterprises in promoting decent work for all and reducing the negative impacts of their operations on host communities.

In an interview following a breakfast meeting in Accra, Dr. Vanessa Phala, ILO Director for Ghana, Nigeria, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, as well as ECOWAS Liaison, urged other countries to follow Ghana’s example.

Dr. Phala noted that Ghana was among the first countries to designate its investment promotion agency as the focal point for implementing the MNE declaration.

She emphasized that this decision reflects Ghana’s leadership and commitment to seriously advancing the MNE declaration.

“In the leadership light, we have seen a meaningful commitment and implementation through the different initiatives, which is a testament to the progress we are making in Ghana with the declaration,” she stated.

Dr. Phala pointed out that since the GIPC was tasked with engaging and attracting investors to the country, it would play a crucial role in the effective implementation of policies that promote socially responsible labour practices in the corporate sector.

“That’s why for us at the ILO, investment promotion bodies being a focal point is something that really should be replicated because it allows for the coordination and synergy in our different interventions,” she said.

Dr. Phala urged multinational enterprises to focus on skills development and enhance workers’ lives by providing continuous training and opportunities for self-education.

Mr. Edward Ashong-Lartey, Director of the Investor Services Division at GIPC, emphasised the importance of balancing profit-making with promoting workers’ rights and community development.

“Businesses are being judged not solely by their financial performance or market share, but their commitment to ethical practices, social responsibility, and contributions to the wellbeing of the communities in which they operate,” he stated.

Mr. Ashong-Lartey emphasized that while the government worked to create an environment conducive for multinational enterprises to invest in Ghana, it was also committed to balancing economic growth with social responsibility.

He urged multinational enterprises operating in the country to adopt fair labour practices that promote decent work, equitable treatment, and respect for workers’ rights.

Mr. Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the Ghana Trades Union Congress (TUC), reiterated the importance of multinational enterprises operating profitably while also addressing the welfare of workers and the needs of their host communities.

“It is crucial to recognise that responsible business practices are not only about profitability but also about ensuring that workers are treated with dignity and fairness,” he said.

He urged multinational enterprises to uphold the rights to fair wages, safe and healthy working conditions, and freedom of association for all workers in their businesses, including Ghanaian employees.

Source: GNA

Ghana reaches staff-level agreement for IMF fourth tranche of $360m

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Ghana have reached a staff-level agreement on the third review of Ghana’s $3 billion extended credit facility.

This was reached after what the Fund described as “programme performance has been generally satisfactory, with remarkable progress on debt restructuring.”

It is however subject to the approval of the IMF Board for the fourth tranche of $360 million. This tranche if approved will bring Ghana’s total disbursements to $1.92 billion.

 Stéphane Roudet, IMF Mission Staff to Ghana said Ghana’s performance under the IMF-supported programme has been generally satisfactory.

During a joint press conference of the IMF, Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) in Accra, he disclosed that all end-June 2024 quantitative targets were met, and progress on key structural reforms has continued notwithstanding delays in a few areas.

The authorities’ policy and reform efforts under the program have continued to deliver encouraging results,” he added.

“Economic growth in the first half of 2024 was much higher than initially envisaged, primarily fueled by mining, construction, and information and communication activity, with a broadening of the sources of growth across sectors during the second quarter. Inflation has continued to decline,” he noted.

The Fund however cautioned that the recent dry spell affecting the Northern regions is expected to adversely impact agricultural output, potentially constraining growth and adding pressure on food prices for the remainder of the year. However, the government’s policy response should help mitigate these risks.

Bawumia’s govt will focus on job creation, economic growth – Oppong Nkrumah

The Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has emphasised that job creation and economic growth will be the primary focus of a Bawumia-led government if the New Patriotic Party (NPP) wins the 2024 elections.

Speaking at the maiden edition of the Election 2024 Dialogue held at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) on Thursday, the Minister provided insight into the NPP’s vision for Ghana’s future under the leadership of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

Oppong Nkrumah, who also serves as Vice Chair of the NPP’s Manifesto Committee, told the gathering of law students, faculty, and political observers that Bawumia’s vision is built on transforming Ghana’s economy through a strategic shift from dependence on raw materials to a focus on value addition and industrialisation.

He noted that this approach would create jobs, particularly for the youth, and ensure sustainable economic growth.

“Dr. Bawumia plans to move Ghana beyond being a raw material exporter to becoming a hub for value-added products,” he explained. He pointed out that the NPP’s Manifesto includes the creation of technology hubs and industrial parks as part of efforts to foster innovation, attract investment, and support small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These initiatives, he said, would be central to driving job creation and securing Ghana’s place in the global economy.

He also stressed that under a Bawumia government, the ongoing digitalisation agenda will be further leveraged to formalise the economy and improve government revenue collection.

“We have already seen significant gains through digital transformation initiatives like mobile money interoperability and the Ghana Card. The next phase will ensure these innovations are fully integrated into our financial systems to support businesses and create more jobs,” he added.

Governance reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency were also highlighted as key components of Dr Bawumia’s vision. Oppong Nkrumah indicated that the NPP plans to introduce reforms that would streamline public services and hold government institutions accountable.

“A Bawumia government will ensure that every public official is accountable, and corruption is rooted out at all levels of public service,” he assured.

Addressing housing issues, the Minister for Works and Housing noted that the NPP’s Manifesto includes concrete plans to scale up affordable housing projects across the country, aimed at reducing the housing deficit. He explained that public-private partnerships would be key to delivering housing solutions for low- and middle-income Ghanaians.

“Housing is a basic necessity, and Dr Bawumia’s vision ensures that all Ghanaians have access to decent, affordable homes,” he stated.

As the dialogue progressed, Oppong Nkrumah continued to emphasize that youth employment remains a priority, with specific plans for education reform and entrepreneurship programs designed to equip young Ghanaians with the skills needed for the modern economy.

“Every year, millions of young people enter the job market, and it is our duty to create opportunities for them to succeed,” he said.

The Election 2024 Dialogue, organized by GIMPA’s Law Students’ Association, provided a platform for the NPP to present its vision ahead of the 2024 elections.

Similar events are expected to be held across various university campuses, where the NPP will engage with students and other stakeholders to further elaborate on its plans for Ghana’s future.

Source: citinewsroom.com

Ghanaians in Lebanon advised to return home as crisis intensifies

The government has expressed deep concerns about the escalating crisis in Lebanon, where over one million people have been displaced due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes, including a recent incident in central Beirut.

This development has heightened fears of a full-scale invasion.

In response to the deteriorating situation, the government issued a statement on Friday, October 4, 2024, urging Ghanaian nationals in Lebanon to promptly return home via available flights.

To facilitate a smooth return, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration advised Ghanaian nationals with incomplete documentation to contact the Embassy of Ghana in Cairo, Egypt and the Honorary Consulate in Beirut.

These measures aim to ensure the safety and well-being of Ghanaian citizens amidst the growing instability in Lebanon.

The international community, including the United Nations, is closely monitoring the situation and working to provide humanitarian aid to those affected.

“Considering the deteriorating situation, the government of Ghana encourages all Ghanaian nationals in Lebanon to take advantage of the available flights in Lebanon to immediately leave the country.

“The government entreats all Ghanaians in Lebanon to act promptly on this advice to avoid any emergencies.”

On Monday, September 23, Israel unleashed a devastating barrage of airstrikes across Lebanon, marking the deadliest day for the country since the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, the powerful Iran-backed militant group.

The intense bombing campaign sparked widespread terror and despair among Lebanese residents, killing over 500 people, including women and children, and injuring more than 1,800 others, according to authorities.

As residents fled their homes in desperation, seeking safety, clashes between Israel and Hezbollah continued in southern Lebanon on Wednesday.

Reports from the Israeli military, Hezbollah, and Lebanon’s army confirmed fighting in at least two areas near the border, specifically around closed military zones where Israel had amassed troops and equipment.

Govt committed to sustainable mining –Information Minister

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to engaging all relevant stakeholders in finding solutions to Ghana’s illegal mining crisis, commonly known as galamsey.

The Information Minister, Fatimatu Abubakar, in a statement on Friday following a closed-door meeting between President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and leaders of Organised Labour on Thursday, stressed that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government is dedicated to protecting the environment while pursuing sustainable mining practices.

The meeting was prompted by Organised Labour’s declaration of an indefinite strike set for October 10. The strike was announced on Tuesday, October 1, after the government failed to meet their demands for a total ban on all forms of mining and the declaration of a state of emergency to combat galamsey.

During the meeting, President Akufo-Addo appealed to Organised Labour to reconsider the planned strike, assuring them of his commitment to addressing their concerns. According to sources, the President requested additional time to work on the demands made by labour leaders.

According to the statement, the government’s ongoing efforts toward sustainable mining and environmental protection. She assured the public that the government will continue to engage with all stakeholders to achieve these objectives.

Inflation for September 2024 increases to 21.5%

The year-on-year inflation for September 2024 has increased to 21.5% from 20.4% recorded in August 2024.

According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has attributed the increase to a rise in food inflation.

The Government Statistician, Prof. Samuel Kobina Annim during a press conference disclosed that food inflation surged to 22.1% from 19.1% in August 2024. However, non-food inflation declined to 20.9% from 21.5 per cent in August 2024.

Before the current increase, inflation had gone down for five consecutive months.

The report revealed that inflation on locally produced items and imported items increased.

Inflation on imported items increased to 17.0% from 16.1% in August, whereas locally produced items recorded inflation of 23.4% from 22.2% in August 2024.

Restaurants and accommodation services recorded 27.9 per cent whereas Alcoholic beverages, tobacco and narcotics recorded 27.6%.

Also, Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels were recorded at 26.4%, Education services had 23.7%, Health was recorded at 22.3% and Food and non-alcoholic beverages were also recorded at 22.1%.

The items recorded higher inflation than the overall rate of inflation of 21.5% for September 2024.

Presidency’s meeting with Organised Labour needless, bogus – Gyampo

Professor Ransford Gyampo, President of the University of Ghana’s chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), has dismissed the Presidency’s invitation to the leadership of Organised Labour to discuss its planned strike against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, as needless and bogus.

Organised Labour announced its decision to embark on an indefinite strike on Tuesday, October 1, in response to the government’s failure to meet their demands, which include a ban on all forms of mining and the declaration of a state of emergency to tackle galamsey.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, Prof. Gyampo accused the government of acting in bad faith and lacking courtesy in its handling of issues with Organised Labour.

He expressed frustration with the government’s approach, calling it “predictable, needless, and bogus.”

“Anytime Labour goes into an agreement with them [the government] and for some reason, they can’t meet the terms, they don’t even have the courtesy to tell us that they cannot meet our demands

“We knew this is what they will be doing. It is so unproductive that they know what to do and they will not do it but go and call you somewhere to discuss issues. They always want to talk to leaders and not problems and that is needless and bogus.”

Prof Gyampo also justified the decision of Organised Labour to give a week’s notice before its October 10 indefinite strike, saying it is a window created to allow all the other unions that make up Organised Labour to adequately prepare and follow due process.

“People who do not know how Organised Labour operates say why didn’t we declare the strike immediately but Organised Labour is made up of other unions and so it is appropriate that we inform those unions appropriately before a major strike.

“There are various processes that are taken before a strike and that is why we are giving a one-week window.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

The 2024 conversation is still pink sheet and arithmetic, not ‘IT’

We should be relieved if former Chairman of the Electoral Commission Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan has been recently part of the conversation about EC’s processes and elections management into December 2024.

As an important player, deep into the controversial 2012 Election Petition, he must have a relevant contribution to make. Also as a matter of institutional memory and experience, he equally has a contribution that should inform decisions that feed into our elections management space into the future.

In a recent statement, the former EC Chair said, “Persons who commit serious election offences, particularly if they are professional election officials or electronic experts, must be severely punished for attempting to undermine the will of the people…”

“And I am singling out professional election administrators and electronic experts because they know what they are doing,” he stressed.

I don’t, however, believe that is the conversation now because crime is crime.

Infractions are always criminal

“A voter may commit some infraction. An election official, by their training, they know what is the right thing to do. The electronic expert who is tampering with the figures, knows exactly what he is doing and these people, I am suggesting, they should be seriously punished,” Dr Afari Gyan added.

That is fair and square. And the law is plain on that, except that we haven’t seen too many of such infractions reported and concomitant punishment effected – at least from the early days of Afari-Gyan into his own last days and from Charlotte’s till now. Again, according to Dr Afari Gyan, punishing offenders severely will help serve as a deterrence to others who plan to engage in election malpractices. This, too, has been the law.

Dr Kwadwo Afari Gyan, who was speaking at the Ghana Bar Association’s (GBA) annual conference in Kumasi, stressed that in a democratic election, the voter is pre-eminent, and a valid vote is invaluable for purposes of determining the choices of the people.

For this reason, the seasoned election administrator said any act intended to manipulate or undermine the will of the people, particularly by those employed to oversee the exercise, should be considered as an act of “treason”. This, too, is the law. Indeed, again, any infraction of an electoral law is criminal, and must be investigated as a criminality.

NDC gripe, EC’s finished processes  

The raging conversation, if I am not myself misled or confused, is that the opposition National Democratic Congress is mooting another conversation ostensibly from Mars, without detailing their gripes and what they think are the options for what they consider credibility. And, they are picketing soon about what only they know.

So, when Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan drops another conversation as if the raging one is exhausted, I cannot comprehend the issues he makes about technology and experts taking advantage of technology to steal the verdict.

He says, “I am singling out here professional election administrators and electronic experts because they know exactly what they are doing. A voter may commit some infraction.” And, he advises political parties and various contenders in general elections to obtain the requisite data before going to court to challenge the election results.

But that is exactly where the controversy is, except the reporter misquoted his line of argument and thought.

Elections management is arithmetic. Period!

According to the reporter, Dr Kwadwo Afari Gyan urged all who intended to challenge the results of any national elections to ensure they possessed well executed and authentic “pink sheets.” Fact. Indeed, what he said was the fact, except that he was cagey pointing that out to the NDC because technology, in my opinion, and I believe in the opinion of even the experts, doesn’t feature to a point of intrigue and mischief as far as a court is concerned.

As the report outlines, pink sheets are the EC’s official documents used to collate results of elections at polling stations, constituency and regional levels, and are the source documents which the Commission relies on to declare Members of Parliament (MPs) and the President as elected.

“Pink sheets are the most important source documents for reconstructing election results. Please, take it from me that the pink sheets are the most important source documents for the reconstruction of election results,” the former EC Chair said.

“That is what we mean when we say elections are won or lost at the polling station. That is what it means. Those pink sheets, duly executed, authentic and duly executed. So, my friendly advice to you is that if you don’t [have] authentic, duly executed pink sheets, as we say in Ghana, think twice before you go to court,” he added.

NDC demonstration against EC

As I do this piece, the NDC is putting in organizing youth across the country to go on a demonstration. That demonstration is not about election petition or official complaint that Parliament or the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) cannot deal with. But the NDC has deliberately ignored the imperative of processes, including IPAC and Parliament and, for that matter, the courts which have final jurisdictions.

What the NDC appears to be doing is to implicate the EC and the whole fabric of elections management of which they had been a veritable part. In that, I believe, they are implicating the Legislature which consists of their own Minority as well as IPAC of which they are also part.

It is cry-baby tantrum that the NDC must explain to the civil society stakeholders. They cite vote transfers to other constituencies, though every party has privileges under the law in transferring votes. But they make wild claims about the EC skewing the processes for the benefit of a political party, which is the incumbent NPP.

Intriguingly, the NDC hasn’t established and submitted names that they can prove in December 2024 will be voting NPP or came to make the transfers in NPP colours so would be voting NPP at some other constituency.

So, when they ask for audit by an independent body, I ask what basis the independent audit firm or parameters they would be applying to filter the information and draw conclusions.

Polling station mechanism 

As Afari-Gyan has stated, and rightly so, the ultimate decision involving declaration will be made on pink sheet ruling by the vetted work collectively of EC staff, polling agents, collation official doing simple arithmetic and not technology such as Excel because that is for the political parties to do at their levels in monitoring and what input the media, election observers and other stakeholders would be detailing on the space.

At the last layer that Dr Afari-Gyan appears to be referring to, party chiefs, with the data they have assembled, share notes with the EC, and make declarations. If votes don’t tally, it is arithmetic that is employed – not technology.

This is because technology may befuddle the facts as garbage inputted will output garbage. I believe that was why Rojo Mettle-Nunoo and Johnson Asiedu Nketia were given calculators, and not an Excel system spread over the figures, to determine a ruling affirming the declaration by the EC that the NPP, indeed, had won the 2020 presidential elections by some 500,000 votes.

What next, NDC? 

As things stand now, we cannot tell what next the NDC would do as a frontal jibe at the EC, though the avenues for redress and engagement aren’t closed, by any stretch of the imagination.

Barely three months into the general elections, the mischief that the NDC believe it can do to stir acceptability is agitate, stampede and throw tantrums. That was the tactic for 2008 and 16 years later, for today 2024. Only God knows where this cycle would take them. Particularly when they know they know deep inside that they haven’t, under JM, a history and catalogue of achievements that match those of the NPP, we may understand them, if they do what they are best at…

In all of that, they should be reminded of Dr Afar-Gyan’s eternal pink sheet rule he now refers to here – the famous requirement that stunted the deep-seated NDC stealing machine within the corridors of the EC. Thank God for the subsequent 2012 Election Petition reforms that continue to expose the NDC as experts in evading pink sheet arguments.

PS

These notwithstanding, we may have the demonstrations. Only let’s be cool about them, even if the next 90 or so days will be picketing. As for the elections, Insha Allahu, it will come and go as if nothing has happened – with one winner and one loser.  

By Abena Baawuah

$30m UAE grant for forest conservation

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, on behalf of the Forestry Commission, has signed a $30million grant with the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for enhanced forest protection, forest restoration and reforestation.

This forms part of efforts by the government to achieve the biodiversity and climate objectives under the Resilient Ghana Package launched at COP28 in Dubai, last year.

On the sidelines of the United Nations Climate Week in New York, Samuel Abu Jinapor, the sector Minister, signed for Ghana while the UAE Minister for Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, signed a Letter of Intent to provide up to $30million to implement the biodiversity and climate objectives of the Resilient Ghana Package and REDD+ Strategies.

The funds would be used to support programmes ranging from targeted interventions within specific geographic landscapes in Ghana to wider ambitions for national-level efforts.

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Mr Jinapor reiterated Ghana’s commitment to developing strategies to restore habitats, protect endangered species, and promote resilient ecosystems.

He noted that though the challenges were daunting, through collaboration and a shared vision, Ghana could pave the way towards sustainable solutions that benefit not only the country but the entire global community.

The Minister expressed his deep appreciation to the UAE and all those who had been involved in the negotiations and discussions that led to the signing of the agreement. He said that Ghana would develop the necessary strategies to achieve the objectives of the Resilient Ghana Package.

For her part, Dr. Amna Al Dahak lauded Ghana for its leadership on forest and nature-based solutions to climate change.

Commenting on the partnership, she stated: “Our partnership with Ghana is a testament to the UAE’s focus on global biodiversity, climate and development goals. It underscores our commitment to the UAE Consensus which calls for the ending and reversal of deforestation by 2030 and highlights the importance of the protection and preservation of biodiversity.”

“Our investment in Ghana will not only bolster the country’s afforestation efforts, but will also create a broader positive impact on local communities. By backing a comprehensive set of initiatives aimed at forest protection and enhancement, we aim to strengthen local livelihoods and foster greater community engagement,” she added.

In 2022, at COP 27 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak, launched the Forest and Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP) as a new political forum that brought together governments and partners to work together to implement solutions that reduced forest loss, increase restoration, and support sustainable development.

Subsequently, at COP 28 in Dubai, Ghana launched her Resilient Ghana Package for nature, climate and people, under the FCLP.

The Resilient Ghana package includes an integrated system-wide suite of interventions to help halt and reverse forest loss while delivering sustainable development and promoting inclusive rural transformation.

It is underpinned by three key pillars, namely nature-based industrialisation and rural development; future-fit green jobs and livelihoods; and scaling climate ambition. At the launch of the Package in Dubai, several countries pledged their support to the Resilient Ghana Package.

Through strategies such as the Resilient Ghana Package and REDD+ Programme, the Government seeks to scale up efforts to halt and reverse forest loss and forest degradation by 2030, in accordance with the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration of Forest Loss and Land Use.

Biden announces $8 billion in military aid for Ukraine

U.S. President Joe Biden announced more than $8 billion in military assistance for Ukraine on Thursday to help Kyiv repel Russian invaders, using a visit by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to make a major commitment.

The aid includes the first shipment of a precision-guided glide bomb called the Joint Standoff Weapon, with a range of up to 81 miles (130 km). The medium-range missile gives Ukraine a major upgrade to the weapons it is using to strike Russian forces, allowing the Ukrainians to do it at safer distances.

The bomb, capable of striking targets with high accuracy, is to be dropped from fighter jets. Biden will not announce that Washington would let Ukraine use U.S. missiles to hit targets deeper in Russia, a U.S. official said.

“We’re making clear that we stand with Ukraine now and in the future,” Biden told reporters ahead of a bilateral meeting with Zelenskiy in the Oval Office. He said the U.S. would continue to help Ukraine strengthen its position on the battlefield, and that he had directed the Pentagon to allocate all remaining security funding by the end of his term in January.

Zelenskiy thanked Biden for his support and said it was important to secure Ukraine’s future in the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Zelenskiy has long sought NATO membership, but the allies have stopped short of taking that step.

The bulk of the new aid, $5.5 billion, is to be allocated before Monday’s end of the U.S. fiscal year, when the funding authority is set to expire. Another $2.4 billion is under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which allows the administration to buy weapons for Ukraine from companies rather than pull them from U.S. stocks.

This will provide Ukraine with additional air defense, unmanned aerial systems and air-to-ground munitions, as well as strengthen Ukraine’s defense industrial base and support its maintenance and sustainment requirements, Biden said.

Under his plan, the president said, the Defense Department will refurbish and provide Ukraine with an additional Patriot air defense battery and more Patriot missiles.

Biden ordered the Pentagon to expand training for Ukrainian F-16 pilots, including by supporting the training of an additional 18 pilots next year.

Zelenskiy thanked Biden and the U.S. Congress for the new military aid package, saying Ukraine would use it “in the most efficient and transparent manner”.

“I am grateful to the United States for providing the items that are most critical to protecting our people,” Zelenskiy said on X, mentioning the Patriot battery, drones and long-range missiles.

Source: reuters.com

Derek Boateng slams GFA over stadium crisis

Former Ghana international Derek Boateng has accused the Ghana Football Association (GFA) of only “caring about money” and not ensuring standard pitches for the Black Stars..

The Baba Yara Sports Stadium, which hosted Ghana’s last game against Angola, has been banned by CAF “due to the poor quality of the pitch.”

“The current state of the pitch does not meet the standards required for CAF/FIFA senior international matches, necessitating a complete reconstruction.”

The African football governing body also “recommends that the relevant authorities conduct a comprehensive assessment of all major international stadiums in Ghana to ensure they comply with CAF technical standards.”

This decision leaves Ghana with limited options, and potentially hosting their next game against Sudan in October in Togo, Nigeria, or Ivory Coast.

Derek expressed disappointment with the challenge and dared the FA to fix the issue “if they care about football.”

“It is really said. This job is a huge job. One person cannot do it,” Derek said.

“Everybody has to be part of it but I feel the FA needs to wake up and do something because this is their job, to make sure that all the fields are good for the players to play.

“The only thing they care about is money. We have players coming from Europe in a good field. They will come and play in a sh**t pitch and you expect them to perform well and win games?

“If the FA care about football, they have to make sure those things [fixing pitches] are done before the players will come [October].”

Meanwhile, the Sports Ministry released a statement, ‘directing’ the National Sports Authority, to “take steps to resolve issues with the pitch” at the Baba Yara Stadium.

Renting out national stadiums has become the NSA’s primary source of income, but the practice has proven counterproductive, as the facilities are often left in a deplorable state.

The Black Stars come up against Sudan on October, 11 hoping for their first win of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier after picking up one point from two matches.

Ghana suffered a 1-0 defeat to Angola before a 1-1 draw against Niger, leaving them third in Group F with just one point.

Source: Joy Sports

Kumasi Magistrate court invalidates more than 1,000 voter transfers to Manhyia South constituency

A Kumasi magistrate court has invalidated more than 1,000 voter transfers to the Manhyia South constituency, ordering the Electoral Commission (EC) to take immediate steps to return all the affected voters to their original constituencies.

The court, Presided by the Magistrate, Gyaawa Donkor, arrived at the verdict after complaint brought before the court by Lawyer Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for Manhyia South, after detecting that the transfers had been orchestrated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), traveled its judicial course.

Mr Awuah, after uncovering the illegal transfers, had mobilised polling station executives and residents to raise objections, indicating that these transfers involved individuals who did not reside in the constituency.

The objections were formalised through the completion of Objection Forms in accordance with Regulation 23 of CI 91, which indicated that the transferred voters were not residents of the constituency.

On September 20, 2024, during the court’s hearing on the matter, landlords of the properties, which the affected voters used to register, testified before the court denying that the individuals live at those addresses.

When the Ghana News Agency reached out to the NDC Parliamentary candidate, Ms Rita Gyamfua Amonu, after the court’s ruling, she opted not to comment on the matter.

Source: GNA

Provide factual evidence on “needless allegation” on DRIP equipment – KON to Ablakwa

The Minister of Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has accused the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa of unnecessarily politicising the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).

Ablakwa is accusing the government of inflating the cost of equipment procured for the DRIP by over US$102 million.

The North Tongu MP said this has left the Ghanaian taxpayers to bear an unnecessary burden of US$178.7 million instead of US$76.6 million

In an interview with Bonohene Baffour Awuah on Asaasepa 107.3 on Wednesday (25 September), Oppong Nkrumah challenged Ablakwa to provide evidence to substantiate his allegation.

“What did Ablakwa say about the actual price [of the DRIP equipment]? This type of politics we’ve seen over and over again. He has to tell us and provide evidence that the price of the DRIP equipment has been inflated. He hasn’t done that, they’ve seen a trick that in this country what many appreciate are allegations.”

“So, they [NDC] may not have anything beneficial to say, all that they need to do is throw allegations out there and insist that the government come to prove otherwise. They are not offering any ideas on how to transform lives.”

The campaign that they [NDC] are doing, apart from allegations, what has been the purpose of their campaign? You are talking about a 24-hour economy… how does it affect the cost of living? The price of the DRIP equipment has been ballooned? What is the actual cost and what is the inflated figure.”
Source: asaaseradio.com

ECG appoints David Asamoah as acting MD

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has appointed David Asamoah as its acting managing director after Samuel Dubik Mahama resigned from the role on Wednesday (25 September).

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, chairman of the ECG board, confirmed the leadership change during a press conference held on Thursday (26 September) at the company’s headquarters in Accra.

He reassured the public that the transition would not disrupt the country’s power supply.

“We received the news of our MD’s resignation and we met this afternoon at an emergency meeting. The board accepted the resignation of the managing director and David Asamoah has been nominated to act as the managing director pending decision of the sole shareholder of the company, which is the government and we’re going to have the necessary engagement with the sole shareholder,” Afenyo-Markin said.

He further emphasised that the management team is fully supportive of the decision and reassured Ghanaians that the company’s operations would remain uninterrupted.

“We’re here to assure you that the fact that we have had changes in management will not mean that you’re going to have some interrupted power supply. The entire system of the company is in place and the company will continue to provide the essential services that it provides for Ghanaians and the country,” he added.

Samuel Dubik Mahama, who was appointed as ECG managing director by President Nana Akufo-Addo in May 2022, cited personal reasons for stepping down. In his resignation statement, Mahama said the decision was difficult but ultimately in his best interest.

Global Africans called to help bridge infrastructure deficit

Speakers and panel members at the second edition of the Global Africa Forum (GAF) have called on global Africans to consider channelling their financial resources and expertise towards the African continent to support ongoing governmental and continental efforts aimed at bridging the existing infrastructure gap on the African continent.

They made the call at the Global Africa Forum, which was held on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City, United States of America. The Forum was organised by the Africa Prosperity Network (APN) and the African American Institute (AAI). It was under the theme “Mobilizing Global African Investments to Address Africa’s Infrastructure Financing Deficit.”

In his opening address read on his behalf, the Executive Chairman of APN,  Gabby Asare Otchere Darko, pointed out that it had become increasingly clear that the private sector, both in Africa and among the Global African community, had to drive the continent’s quest to plug its infrastructure gap.

“We need to invest in roads and bridges. We must build railroads, and establish aviation and maritime links to connect our countries and move cargo and people, but the model for financing must shift from central governments to the private sector.

“In 2023, the rest of Africa, south of the Sahara, witnessed an impressive $54 billion in remittance flows. Remittances outperformed FDI [Foreign Direct Investments] by nearly 1.5 times. Ghana’s remittances reached an impressive $4.6 billion, surpassed only by neighbouring Nigeria with $19.5 billion” Mr Otchere-Darko said.

“We see an opportunity in establishing direct air links between Africa and the Caribbean. It’s important for unlocking new trade, tourism, and cultural exchange opportunities. We need to recreate that transatlantic bridge, even for catharsis for our collective trauma.

“Let’s seize the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area and Africa Prosperity Network to unlock the continent’s full potential for economic growth, regional integration, and global influence, and back it with your investment,” Mr. Otchere-Darko further indicated.

Among the business and corporate leaders who shared their understandings, being at the forefront of spearheading development on the African continent, were Oliver Alawuba, Group Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Boris Kodjoe, actor and co-founder of Full Circle Africa, Thierno

Habib Hann, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shelter Afrique, Olakunle Williams, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tetracore Energy, and Kwabena Nyarko Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Hospital Infrastructure Group.

Their presentations spoke to their practical experience in various fields of endeavour, emphasising the need to mobilise private capital and expertise to position African governments and institutions on the continent to fast-track large-scale and sustainable housing and urban development projects across the continent.

The speakers called for a strong partnership between private investors and governments as the best way to ensure the construction, speedy completion, and operationalization of the much-needed infrastructure across the continent.

As part of the Global Africa Forum, the Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Kofi Appenteng, President and CEO of African America Institute (AAI) and Dr Fatima Elsheikh, Secretary General of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), jointly launched the 2025 Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD 2025).

APD 2025 will take place in Accra from Thursday, 30 January to Saturday, 1 February 2025, under the theme “Delivering Africa’s Prosperity Through Infrastructure: Invest, Integrate, Connect”. It is expected to attract over one thousand participants from across the continent.

 

Corrected voter register will be re-exhibited online – EC tells NDC

The Electoral Commission (EC) has assured the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that it will re-exhibit the corrected Provisional Voters Register (PVR) online before the final version is printed for the 2024 General Elections.

This decision follows a nationwide demonstration led by the NDC, dubbed ‘Enough is Enough,’ which called for corrections to discrepancies in the provisional register and a forensic audit of the EC’s IT system.

During the protest, NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah presented a petition to the EC, alleging issues such as illegal voter transfers, deleted names, incomplete data, and a compromised IT system among others.

In response, the EC acknowledged the concerns and clarified its stance on re-exhibiting the PVR.

While the Commission is not opposed to a physical exhibition at all 40,000+ centres, it cited the time constraints, noting that it would take around four weeks to print and distribute the corrected register—making it unfeasible with the election date approaching.

“The Commission intends to implement an Online Exhibition of the PVR at no cost to Registered Voters. Voters will be able to report on anomalies with their details within a time frame to be made available to the Public. The Voters Register will be displayed Online until the Election Day.”

On the NDC’s call for a Forensic Audit, the EC noted the call was not fully justified.

“…the Commission is of the view that the legal and administrative processes laid down to clean the PVR have not been fully exhausted to justify the calls for a Forensic Audit. We entreat the public to trust us to carry out our mandate.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

EC dismisses NDC demand for voters’ register audit

The Electoral Commission (EC) has dismissed calls by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voters Register (PVR).

In a letter addressed to the Chairman of the party, the Commission explained that the legal and administrative mechanisms established to clean the register had not been fully utilized, making a forensic audit unnecessary at this stage.

“The Commission is of the view that the legal and administrative processes laid down to clean the PVR have not been fully exhausted to justify the calls for a Forensic Audit. We entreat the public to trust us to carry out our mandate,” it said in a response signed by the Chairperson, Jean Mensa.

At the end of the NDC’s ‘Enough Is Enough’ demonstration, the party made the following demand in its petition for “an Independent Forensic Audit of the Voters Register and its IT System: An independent forensic audit of the Provisional Voters
Register and its IT System must be conducted to uncover the full extent of the irregularities, including unauthorised log-ins, transfers, discrepancies, and data corruption.”

“This audit should also provide a comprehensive review of the IT infrastructure, human processes, and overall system integrity that led to these errors and discrepancies in the voter register. The audit should also examine both the technical and procedural vulnerabilities of EC’s IT and registration system,” it demanded.

However, explaining the basis of its position in the letter to the NDC, the EC said that the Constitutional Instrument (C.I.) 91 recognise that the PVR is a draft Register, and recognizing that the PVR is bound to contain discrepancies, the framers of the C.I. 91 instituted the mechanism of the Exhibition Exercise to allow for the cleaning and revision of the PVR to ensure that it is credible and robust for an election.

“The Register is thus displayed in all Polling Stations (Exhibition Centres) and Online to allow for inspection and corrections where necessary. In essence, the Exhibition Exercise provides the legal basis to clean the PVR,” it said.

“You will agree with us that as with any human endeavour, such as the Registration of Voters, there are bound to be discrepancies. One cannot therefore expect the Provisional Register to be foolproof,” the Commission added.

The EC further indicated that “it is for this reason that Regulation 23 of C.I. 91 provides clear and well-defined pathways to cure and deal with likely anomalies that are bound to arise from the Registration of Voters, including missing names, errors in biographical data, duplicates, the existence of deceased persons on the Register, incorrect designation of Polling Stations, among others. Thankfully, there exist legal and administrative remedies to resolve all post-registration issues.”

The EC’s letter was also copied to key stakeholders, including the Majority and Minority Leaders of Parliament, civil society organizations, the diplomatic community, and religious bodies such as the National Peace Council, the Christian Council of Ghana, the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, the Chief Imam, and the Ahmadiyya Mission.

Lebanon ceasefire deal makes progress, France reports at UN

France said on Wednesday that efforts would continue in coming hours to clinch a deal on a proposal for a 21-day ceasefire in the Lebanon conflict between Israel and the Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah.

“We have made important progress in the last few hours and we will continue our efforts in the coming hours,” French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told reporters outside a meeting of the U.N. Security Council.

Barrot, who was due to travel to Lebanon later this week, earlier told the 15-member council: “We are counting on both parties to accept it without delay, in order to protect civilian populations and allow for diplomatic negotiations to begin.”

Israel widened its airstrikes in Lebanon on Wednesday and at least 72 people were killed, according to a Reuters compilation of Lebanese health ministry statements. The ministry earlier said at least 223 were wounded.

Israel’s military chief said a ground assault was possible, raising fears the conflict could spark a wider Middle East war.

The U.S. was working with other countries to avert an escalation of hostilities, enable displaced people in Lebanon and Israel to return home and allow for discussions on a broader diplomatic solution, Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Robert Wood told the council.

Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon told reporters before the meeting that Israel would welcome a ceasefire and preferred a diplomatic solution. He then told the Security Council that Iran was the nexus of violence in the region and peace required dismantling the threat.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told reporters before the council meeting that his country supported Hezbollah and would not remain indifferent if the conflict in Lebanon spiraled.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati called on the Security Council to put pressure on Israel for “an immediate ceasefire on all fronts.” Asked if a ceasefire can be reached soon, he told Reuters: “Hopefully, yes.”

World leaders voiced concern the conflict – running in parallel to Israel’s war in Gaza against Palestinian Hamas militants also backed by Iran – was escalating rapidly as the death toll rose in Lebanon and thousands fled their homes.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was due to arrive in New York on Thursday and address the U.N. General Assembly on Friday.

Source: reuters.com

Tunisia presidential candidate Zammel sentenced to six months in prison

A Tunisian court sentenced presidential candidate Ayachi Zammel to six months in prison on Wednesday on charges of falsifying documents, his lawyer told Reuters, the second prison sentence against him in a week, days before the presidential election.

The verdict highlights rising tensions ahead of the election, amid opposition and civil society groups’ fears of a rigged election aimed at keeping President Kais Saied in power.

Zammel was sentenced to 20 months in prison last week on charges of falsifying popular endorsements.

“It is another unjust ruling and a farce that clearly aims to weaken him in the election race, but we will defend his right to the last minute”, Abdessattar Massoudi told Reuters.

Zammel was among only three admitted candidates competing for the position of President alongside incumbent Saied and Zouhair Magzhaoui.

Political tensions in the North African country have risen ahead of the Oct. 6 election since an electoral commission named by Saied disqualified three prominent candidates this month amid protests by opposition and civil society groups.

Source: Reuters

Ghana deepens diplomatic relations with Madagascar, St. Lucia

Ghana has taken significant steps in strengthening its international relations by signing two communiqués to establish diplomatic ties with Madagascar and St. Lucia. Additionally, the country has reached a bilateral investment promotion and protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago.

The agreements were formalized by Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, during separate brief ceremonies held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. The Malagasy and St. Lucian Foreign Ministers, Ms. Rasata Rafaravavitafika and Mr. Alva Baptiste, respectively, signed on behalf of their nations.

The talks between Ms. Botchwey and her Malagasy counterpart, Ms. Rafaravavitafika, centered on the opportunities and advantages that intra-African trade could provide. In a significant development, Madagascar announced its intent to sign onto the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement next month. Ghana, an early signatory of the landmark AfCFTA agreement, hosts its secretariat in Accra, further solidifying its commitment to intra-African trade.

In addition to the diplomatic agreements, Ms. Botchwey and Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Amery Browne, signed an Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment (ARPPI). The ARPPI is expected to enhance bilateral trade between the two nations by fostering economic cooperation, protecting investors’ rights, and preventing unlawful expropriation. While trade between the two nations has been modest, Trinidad and Tobago’s Republic Bank is operational in Ghana and continues to expand its presence.

Following the signing ceremony, Dr. Browne expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I’m delighted we could do this today,” to which Ms. Botchwey responded, “Indeed, it’s a great day,” as they exchanged documents and shook hands.

The discussions between the two ministers also touched on the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which is scheduled to take place in Samoa in four weeks. Notably, Ms. Botchwey is one of the leading candidates vying to become the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, seeking to replace Baroness Patricia Scotland of Dominica.

Earlier in the day, Ms. Botchwey held bilateral talks with Lord Collins, the British Under-Secretary of State of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and Mr. Joseph Andall, the Foreign Minister of Grenada, further expanding Ghana’s diplomatic engagements on the global stage.

Putin proposes new rules for using nuclear weapons

Vladimir Putin says Russia would consider an attack from a non-nuclear state that was backed by a nuclear-armed one to be a “joint attack”, in what could be construed as a threat to use nuclear weapons in the war in Ukraine.

In key remarks on Wednesday night, the Russian president said his government was considering changing the rules and preconditions around which Russia would use its nuclear arsenal.

Ukraine is a non-nuclear state that receives military support from the US and other nuclear-armed countries.

His comments come as Kyiv seeks approval to use long-range Western missiles against military sites in Russia.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has travelled to the US this week and is due to meet US President Joe Biden in Washington on Thursday, where Kyiv’s request is expected to be top of the agenda.

Ukraine has pushed into Russian territory this year and wants to target bases inside Russia which it says are sending missiles into Ukraine.

Responding to Putin’s remarks, Zelensky’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak said Russia “no longer has anything other than nuclear blackmail to intimidate the world”.

Putin has threatened the use of nuclear weapons before. Ukraine has criticised it as “nuclear sabre-rattling” to deter its allies from providing further support.

Russian ally China has also called for calm, with reports President Xi Jinping has warned Putin against using nuclear arms.

But on Wednesday, after a meeting with his Security Council, Putin announced the proposed radical expansion.

A new nuclear doctrine would “clearly set the conditions for Russia to transition to using nuclear weapons,” he warned – and said such scenarios included conventional missile strikes against Moscow.

He said that Russia would consider such a “possibility” of using nuclear weapons if it detected the start of a massive launch of missiles, aircraft and drones into its territory, which presented a “critical threat” to the country’s sovereignty.

He added: “It is proposed that aggression against Russia by any non-nuclear state, but with the participation or support of a nuclear state, be considered as their joint attack on the Russian Federation.”

NPP Council of Elders urges strict adherence to party constitution

The Council of Elders of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region has called for the strict enforcement of the party’s constitution at all levels to address persistent internal disputes, particularly in the Bosome-Freho Constituency. The Council’s appeal followed a series of engagements aimed at resolving disunity among party members in the constituency.

During an assessment visit to Bosome-Freho, it became evident that unresolved tensions among party executives, members and stakeholders could hinder the NPP’s chances of mobilizing a united front ahead of the 2024 elections.

The Vice Chairman of the NPP Council of Elders, Dr. Moussa Jebir Kebir, emphasized the need for reconciliation, urging stakeholders to set aside past grievances for the greater good of the party.

“It is essential that both current and past executives in the Bosome-Freho constituency come together in unity. The party cannot afford internal strife as we gear up for the campaign to ‘break the 8’,” Dr. Jebir Kebir stated.

Victor Owusu, Secretary to the NPP Council of Elders, emphasised the Council’s objective of facilitating fair resolution of disputes within constituencies grappling with internal conflicts. He highlighted the Council’s commitment to ensuring all parties involved in disputes were given equal opportunities to be heard, with the aim of fostering lasting peace.

“We have been working with constituencies facing challenges, and Bosome-Freho has been a key focus for some time. After several engagements with stakeholders here, it’s clear that adherence to the NPP constitution is critical to resolving their issues and moving forward as a unified force,” Mr. Owusu remarked.

Mr. Owusu further advised constituency stakeholders to promote peace, and prioritize the interests of the party, as well as its 2024 flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

The Bosome-Freho constituency has been fraught with internal disputes, prompting the Ashanti Regional Council of Elders to intervene. Earlier this month, the Council successfully negotiated an out-of-court settlement between a founding member, Mr. Yaw Amoah Gyamih, and the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for the constituency, Mr. Kwame Asafo Adjei Ayeh. The case, which concerned the eligibility of the parliamentary candidate, was withdrawn from the Kumasi High Court following the Council’s intervention.

Mr. Gyamih, who also serves as the chairman of the Council of Elders in the Bosome-Freho Constituency, encouraged both the youth and the newly elected executives to build on the efforts of their predecessors. He stressed the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence within the party.

“Since 1992, I have dedicated myself to building this constituency and the NPP as a whole. However, it is disheartening to see the division among us. I urge everyone to come together and strengthen the party for the challenges ahead,” Mr. Gyamih said.

The Bosome-Freho Constituency Chairman, Mr. Kwaku Frimpong, also pleaded for forgiveness from party members, and pledged to work together to build a stronger and more cohesive NPP in the area. He, therefore, called for ceasefire between factions within the party and unity to ‘break the 8’.

TDC begins work on 832 housing units

The Tema Development Corporation (TDC) is poised to begin the construction of 832 affordable housing units as part of Phase 4 of its ongoing housing development project. This was made known following a courtesy visit by TDC leadership to the Minister of Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah.

This new housing project is aimed at helping in tackling the country’s severe housing deficit, which is currently estimated at over 1.8 million units. TDC has already completed Phases 1 through 3 of its development initiative, delivering a total of 1,072 housing units to the market.

These units have provided much-needed affordable housing for both public and private sector workers, contributing substantially to the availability of decent, affordable homes in Ghana.

Speaking during the meeting, the sector Minister lauded the leadership of TDC for its consistent performance and for being a key player in the affordable housing space. He commended the Corporation for winning awards for efficiency, leadership and profitability at the SOE Awards, saying “these recognitions reflect the quality of leadership and the corporation’s commitment to its mandate”.

“Your recent recognition at the SOE Awards is a clear indication that TDC is on the right path. You’ve demonstrated that state-owned enterprises can be profitable, efficient, and lead in terms of delivery. The government is proud of your accomplishments, and we are confident that the 832 units under Phase 4 will be another success,” the Minister stated.

Mr. Oppong Nkrumah emphasized that government’s focus on housing as a critical sector in Ghana’s development was reflected in TDC’s efforts. He stressed that the completion of 1,072 housing units under Phases 1 to 3 had provided much-needed relief to families looking for affordable homes, and the government is eager to support further expansion.

“The 832 units in Phase 4 is part of a broader national strategy to address the housing deficit in Ghana. We are committed to ensuring that these homes are built to a high standard and remain affordable for the average Ghanaian. TDC has proven itself capable, and we look forward to seeing this project come to fruition,” Mr. Oppong Nkrumah added.

The Minister reiterated government’s commitment to supporting housing development initiatives across the country. He noted that housing remained a key priority for President Akufo-Addo’s administration and that the government would continue to invest in projects aimed at reducing the housing deficit.

“The government recognizes housing as a critical area for national development. We are working to ensure that all Ghanaians have access to affordable and decent housing. TDC’s work in this space is vital, and we are committed to providing the necessary support to ensure that this project, along with others across the country, is completed successfully,” the Minister said.

He also revealed future collaborations with other stakeholders to develop additional housing projects in various districts across the country, with the goal of decentralizing affordable housing solutions and bringing them closer to communities that need them most.

The Managing Director of TDC, Alice Abena Ofori-Atta, expressed gratitude to the Minister for his support. She assured him that the Corporation was well-prepared to begin work on Phase 4.

She explained that Phases 1 to 3, which delivered 1,072 units, had set the foundation for even greater achievements in the affordable housing space. With the planned 832 units in Phase 4, TDC is poised to further expand its housing offerings in Tema.

“We have already completed Phases 1 to 3, delivering 1,072 quality housing units to the market. Our new Phase 4 will add 832 more units, which we expect to meet the high demand for affordable homes in the country. We remain committed to ensuring that the houses we build are not only affordable but also meet the highest standards of quality,” she stated.

The Managing Director highlighted that the 832 units under Phase 4 would be built with modern construction technology, ensuring durability and sustainability adding that the project would be completed within the set timeline and would be available to both public and private sector workers, with flexible payment and mortgage plans to enhance accessibility.

War with Russia closer to end than we think – Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said the war with Russia could end sooner than some people think.

“I think that we are closer to peace than we think,” he told US broadcaster ABC News.

He added that Ukraine could push Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the conflict, but only if Kyiv was coming from a “strong position” – once again calling on his Western allies to strengthen the Ukrainian army.

The Ukrainian president is in the US this week to speak at the United Nations General Assembly and to present what he has called a “victory plan” to his Western allies, including US President Joe Biden.

In a statement ahead of the visit, Zelensky said the plan included further weapons donations, diplomatic efforts to force Russia to agree to peace, and holding Moscow accountable for its full-scale invasion in 2022.

In his interview with ABC News, Zelensky said his victory plan was not about negotiating with Russia, but rather it was “a bridge to a diplomatic way out, to stop the war”.

On Tuesday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia was being cautious about media reports of a Ukrainian plan and added that the conflict would only end when Russia’s aims were achieved.

Zelensky has for some time been asking Western countries to allow Ukraine to ease restrictions on the use of long-range missiles which could be used to strike deep into Russia. He is expected to do so again this week as he visits the US.

On Sunday, Biden said he had not yet decided whether to give Ukraine the green light. Zelensky said the US would need to lead the decision: “Everybody’s looking up to [Biden], and we need this to defend ourselves,” he told ABC.

Zelensky will speak at the UN General Assembly on Wednesday and is also due to meet US presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

The president of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, told the New York Times that Ukraine would have to be “realistic” about its prospects of recovering the areas in the east of the country which Russia has managed to gain over the last 31 months of war.

He added that the most likely outcome of the war was that a part of Ukrainian territory would remain under Russian occupation for a number of years.

A defeat of either Ukraine or Russia “will simply not happen”, Pavel told the Times, adding that the end of the conflict would be “somewhere in between”.

Zelensky’s US trip comes as Ukraine continues to come under sustained attack by Russia.

An incursion by Ukrainian troops into Russia’s Kursk region in August failed to ease the pressure put by Moscow on eastern Ukraine.

Several regions continue to see daily casualties and widespread damage to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. There are concerns Russia could seize more key towns in the east of the country.

In a daytime attack on Tuesday, Russia hit a high-rise apartment block in Ukraine’s northeastern city of Kharkiv.

At least three people died and 15 were injured in the attack, which local authorities said was carried out with glide bombs.

On Monday night, an attack on the eastern Ukrainian town of Poltava damaged infrastructure, while in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia one person died and six others were wounded following “massive air strikes”.

Russian troops have made serious advances in the east and are closing in on Vuhledar – a city on the southern part of the Donbas front line that the Russians have been trying to seize since the beginning of their full-scale invasion.

Source: BBC

Manhyia rejects Afia Pokua’s apology

After hours of pleading at Manhyia Palace, Afia Pokua was asked to leave and never set foot there again.

Not even the faction of elders who advocated for her could persuade the Otumfuo’s representative to accept her apology.

One elder pleaded on Afia Pokua’s behalf, that she (Pokua), had been on her knees since her arrival and had brought an apology that should be considered.

However, the Otumfuo’s representative remained resolute, stating that in the palace, an apology isn’t always sufficient in such matters. He emphasised that there are times when offenders are left to face their consequences, and Afia Pokua’s situation was one of those.

“Who are you to disrespect the Otumfuo? If you’ve grown wings, don’t direct them towards Kumasi. You said you’re from Kwahu but the people of Kwahu even broke away from the Ashanti region. It is our language they speak. Take your cursed self and your troubles with you. Whatever you encounter in the future, face it alone. Never set foot here again,” he stated bluntly.

With those final words, the case was closed. Afia Pokua, Mona Gucci, and their delegation drove away in their vehicle.

Afia Pokua and Mona Gucci summoned

After apologising on their respective social media platforms for disrespecting the Asantehene and offering another apology on live TV, Afia Pokua and Mona Gucci honoured the invitation to Manhyia Palace to deliver a formal apology to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

They were accompanied by Prophet Kumchacha and a delegation from Onua TV, the media house where Afia Pokua made comments about the Asantehene.

Dressed in all black, Afia Pokua was seen kneeling in front of the Otumfuo’s representative almost throughout the proceedings.

Moderated by the Otumfuo’s Okyeame (Linguist), both parties addressed the issues, and the offenders presented their third apology to the delegation.

Background

The controversy began when Afia Pokua, a journalist at Agoo TV, criticised the Asantehene for his perceived silence amid ongoing conflicts involving his subjects and other tribes, including the Bonos.

On Onua FM’s ‘Bribi Gye Gye wo,’ hosted by Mona Gucci, Pokua expressed frustration with what she sees as Ashantis proving superiority over other tribes and the Asantehene’s refusal to act on it.

These statements have sparked massive outrage among the Ashantis, with many individuals, including sub-chiefs and queen mothers, openly voicing their criticism.

Also, the irate Asante youth staged a protest and held a press conference to address the situation.

Source: Ghanaweb

Nigerian music video budget can produce a Ghanaian film – Camidoh

Ghanaian musician and producer, Raphael Camidoh, has reemphasized the need for stakeholders in the Ghanaian music industry to invest heavily in quality music productions, especially in video creation.

He was responding to comments on how differently the Nigerian music industry was thriving ahead of Ghana’s music space.

In an interview with Melvin Da Enigma on Luv FM, Camidoh explained that players in the local industry invested less in their craft.

He noted that Ghanaian music investors are less inclined to invest in artistes, their music videos, and marketing publications.

“But in Nigeria, their budget for shooting a music video is massive, if one takes a look at their budget, it can be able to shoot a Ghanaian film,” he said.

Camidoh believes investors in the Nigerian industry have realized the potential and returns from the sector which is missing in the local industry.

Although the local space is seeing growth, he alludes that more could be done to ramp up activities by emulating their colleagues in Nigeria.

In the past weeks, Camidoh’s hit song, Sugarcane Remix has hit a hundred million views on YouTube – the highest obtained by any Ghanaian artiste, emphasizing on the benefits of injecting more resources into one’s craft.

He also shared that his love for music was inspired by Akon, recounting how he started his early music days selling Sobolo, Pure Water, and Asanaa on a table in Ola Girls SHS in the Volta region, where he sat to write his raps.

Extending gratitude to his fanbase and Ghanaians for their support by far, Camidoh also advised upcoming artistes and the populace to carve a niche for themselves to stay relevant.

“To find a spot, you need to find that unique thing that nobody else can do,” he said.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Moesha Bodoung: Half of my body is paralysed now

Nine months after it was reported that she had suffered a stroke, Ghanaian socialite and actress, Moesha Bodoung, has spoken about her current state of health.

In a recent phone interview with nkonkonsa.com, Moesha said she has not been able to walk or speak well for the past months.

“I went off completely and I was in bed for several months. I couldn’t walk, I couldn’t talk, and couldn’t do anything. I thank God I am better now. As you can see, I talk now even though I am still struggling to speak properly. Half of my body is paralyzed now. One of my legs and one of my hands are not functioning now. So I can’t type on the phone now, I can only talk on the phone,” Moesha told the blog.

That notwithstanding, Moesha believes that God will fully heal her.  “I know God will heal me, and I will become a global superstar,” she said.

Earlier this year, after it was reported that she had suffered a stroke, her brother, Ebito Boduong, set up a GoFundMe account to raise $10,000 to cater for her medical bills.

At present, about $5,158 has been raised, and according to nkonkonsa.com, Moesha has acknowledged receipt of the money, saying it is being used for the purpose for which it was intended.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Finance Ministry clarifies ongoing efforts to settle Trafigura arrears

The Government of Ghana has reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the Settlement Agreement with Trafigura, with the aim of resolving the matter swiftly.

This reassurance follows the circulation of a letter on social media suggesting a delay by the government in executing the agreement.

On September 24, Trafigura’s Ghana Power Generation Company (GPGC) petitioned Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, seeking payment of outstanding arrears owed by the government.

In response, the Ministry of Finance clarified that the letter reflects ongoing discussions to settle the claims, assuring that necessary arrangements have been made to honour the outstanding payments, following several rounds of negotiations with Trafigura.

“The Ministry of Finance wishes to state that we have made the necessary arrangements to pay off the outstanding claims agreed with Trafigura after several rounds of negotiations. We are therefore surprised at the circulation of this letter on social media.

“The Government of Ghana remains committed to honouring its obligations under the Settlement Agreement with Trafigura with the view to bring this matter to closure.”

GPCG in a letter addressed to the Finance Minister and copied to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice Godfred Yeboah Dame, warned that it may be compelled to seize Ghana’s properties in South Africa and the United States of America if the government fails to pay an outstanding $111 million out of $134 million judgement debt it was awarded four years ago after Ghana abrogated a power purchase agreement.

A similar action was taken in August 2024, when Trafigura moved in to briefly seize Ghana’s Regina House in the United Kingdom for defaulting on a payment agreement.

The origins of this legal dispute trace back to a decision made on January 26, 2021, by a UK tribunal. The tribunal issued a decisive final award, concluding that the Ghanaian government had breached its contractual obligations under the power purchase agreement with GPGC.

This breach occurred when Ghana unilaterally terminated the agreement on February 18, 2018. The tribunal’s findings were damning, ruling that Ghana was liable to pay GPGC a staggering $134,348,661 as an early termination payment.

The government paid $23 million of the debt when the Regina House was seized with a balance of $111 million.

Napo rallies Asanteman behind Bawumia

The Vice Presidential candidate of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has called on the people of Asanteman to rally behind the party’s 2024 presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, just as they did for former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in previous elections.

Speaking during a campaign event in Kokofu, in the Bekwai constituency, yesterday, Dr. Prempeh, who is affectionately known as ‘Napo’, emphasised the significant role the Ashanti Region had played in past NPP victories. He acknowledged that their support was instrumental in securing electoral wins for both former President Kufuor and President Akufo-Addo.

“The Ashanti Region is the heartbeat of the NPP, and it was your love, support and massive votes that significantly helped our great party produce efficient presidents in the persons of John Kufuor and Nana Akufo-Addo for Ghana,” Napo remarked.

He indicated: “It’s now the turn of our visionary, workaholic, patriotic and development-oriented leader, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to also benefit from your unalloyed support, love and massive votes to lead the NPP to break the eight and make history.”

He described Dr Bawumia as the most competent and capable individual to succeed President Akufo-Addo and continue the NPP’s development agenda.

“This election is not about ethnicity, tribe or religion. It’s about the right person who can continue the good works of President Akufo-Addo, and take us to the Promised Land, and that person is Dr. Bawumia,” Napo stressed.

Dr. Prempeh further lauded Dr. Bawumia for serving the country diligently as Vice- President for eight years, without any accusations of corruption.

He described this as a clear indication of Dr Bawumia’s integrity and ability to manage the affairs of the country. “With Dr. Bawumia at the helm, we can be rest assured that our national coffers will be well protected because he is not corrupt. I will faithfully serve and support Dr. Bawumia, just as he did for Nana Akufo-Addo,” Napo added.

He encouraged voters to focus on Dr Bawumia’s track record and competence, rather than factors such as ethnicity or religion, when casting their ballots.

He expressed his firm belief that the people of Asanteman would, once again, deliver massive votes for the NPP, ensuring victory for Dr. Bawumia and maintaining the party’s hold on power.

Freight Forwarders, Customs agents protest excessive port charges in Tema

The Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders, customs agents, and other concerned stakeholders staged a protest in Tema, Greater Accra Region, to voice their frustrations over what they describe as excessive and exploitative charges at the ports.

The protesting groups argue that these charges are making business operations increasingly difficult.

After marching to various shipping lines to deliver their petition, the protesters also submitted copies to the Ministries of Transport and Trade and Industry.

Speaking to Channel One News, some freight forwarders expressed strong dissatisfaction with the current port operations, stating that the high fees are pushing importers to explore alternative options.

“We are protesting because the shipping lines are cheating us; they are killing our work. Most of our importers are now using the Togo port because of the charges we are facing here,” one freight forwarder said.

Another freight forwarder, Bismark Ocansey, recounted a recent incident where a malfunctioning APS scanner delayed his container’s processing, resulting in a demurrage charge of approximately GH¢10,000, despite the delay not being his fault.

“It is high time we let the shipping lines know they are cheating us,” Ocansey stated, adding that he had to go to great lengths to explain the situation to his importer, who was frustrated by the additional costs.

Source: citinewsroom.com

GRA launches IT training centre

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has commissioned an ultra-modern two-story building Information Technology Training Centre at Tema, financed by KFW German Bank for Development.

The IT Centre project was started in 2021 as part of GRA’s vision to modernise tax payment issues such as compliance and digitalisation.

The commissioning was also used to open a three-day service enhancement training for 60 front-line workers of the GRA, mostly drawn from the Customs Division and the Domestic Tax Unit.

The training was done in partnership with development partners such as the UK Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

During the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Alex Apaabeng, the Deputy Finance Minister, said the GRA, under the Ministry, wanted to adopt a customer-led approach in engaging their clients, noting that the world has moved, and they must also move towards that.

According to him, in their quest to enhance service delivery, the GRA has sought and secured support from key partners such as the World Bank and the PFW for service delivery, geared towards enhancing the taxpayer experience.

He noted that the training formed a special opportunity for the Authority to upgrade its already specialised skills to enhance taxpayer experience, stating his understanding of the complexities surrounding the whole journey of tax compliance as a tax expert.

“When we are equipped to understand these things, that’s when we are able to translate it into a good tax-payer experience to enhance our service. Taxpaying is a very difficult task, but once the taxpayer is educated, feels respected, and is able to assess what their taxes are used for, then voluntary compliance is enhanced, and I believe this very training will help us achieve that,” the Deputy Finance Minister said.

Dr. Ampaabeng explained that enhanced voluntary compliance reduces the cost both for the tax enforcement company and to the taxpayer on the cost of compliance, stating that the training would equip the staff with the needed skills to deliver.

To this end, he urged the front-line staff of the GRA professional in their relationships and engagement with the customers, as it has a profound impact on their decision to comply or not to comply.

The Deputy Finance Minister said Ghana’s tax to GDP (gross domestic product) of 14 percent, even though commendable looking at the circumstances in which the authority operates, the country still had a long way to go as a middle-income economy, as other African countries were doing around 20-21 percent.

In her remarks, the Commissioner-General of GRA, Ms Julie Essiam, said the training was to elevate the professionalism of the staff to meet the authority’s fourth strategic plan of excellence in service delivery to the taxpayers.

She noted that the notion of customer centricity had taken over the mantra of tax authorities, including the USA. She said the training would therefore serve as the cornerstone anchoring the GRA’s journey in its vision to change the face of the GRA by adopting a collaborative approach in its engagements with the taxpayers.

“It’s not only about imparting knowledge but also embedding the cultural excellence that will sound through every layer of the GRA because the effectiveness of the tax system hinges loudly on those that we service,” she added.

For Elorm Segbefia, Lead Advisor and Senior Programme Manager for the Ghana Revenue Programme by the UK Government, his outfit under the development programme was working with the GRA on two strands of tax policy and revenue administration.

He explained that it is aimed at helping GRA to become customer-centric, where it would be able to use customer behavioural analytics to be ahead of the customers to give them a good experience.

He added that they expected to see a better result in the GRA customer survey they would conduct, showing an improvement in their service delivery, which would translate into voluntary tax payment and an increase in revenue generation.

Source: GNA

Okyenhene pushes equal opportunities for all children

Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin has called for equal opportunities for all Ghanaian children, particularly those in rural communities, to help bridge the gap between urban and rural education.

He noted that many brilliant children in rural Ghana lacked the resources and opportunities available to their counterparts in urban areas, saying that hindered their ability to discover and nurture their talents.

The Okyenhene made the call when he addressed a grand traditional durbar in Akyem Wenchi, the seat of the Oseawuo division of the Akyem Abuakwa State, as part of the celebration of his 25th anniversary on the Ofori Panin stool.

Osagyefuo stressed that providing equal opportunities would enable rural children to thrive, and compete effectively. He further called for increased focus on women’s empowerment, noting that women had demonstrated prudence with even small investments.

“We must give opportunities to people to explore. We must invest in our children’s education, and give them the necessary support to be competitive. Women have proven to be prudent with little investments, so it is important that we focus on their education and support them to grow,” Osagyefuo stated.

As part of his commitment to advancing education, the Okyenhene has initiated the construction of 10 model schools across the Akyem Abuakwa State.

The Amoatia Ofori Panin Model School, recently commissioned in Akyem Wenchi, features 9 classrooms, a computer laboratory, ICT centers, a headmaster’s office, and a staff common room. The school will prioritize Mathematics, Science and Information Technology in its curriculum, reflecting Osagyefuo’s belief that science and technology are critical to human development.

So far, four model schools have been commissioned in Achiase, Wenchi, Kyebi and Osino, with the remaining schools set to open in the coming weeks.

Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin expressed concerns about irresponsible mining practices that had devastated the environment. He noted that while mining itself is not inherently harmful, the reckless methods currently employed are destroying water bodies, biodiversity, and ecosystems.

“Those who mined here decades ago did so responsibly. They didn’t destroy our water bodies or the environment, and they didn’t pollute the water with mercury and chemicals. So why are we destroying the environment now?” he questioned. He lamented the dire condition of Akwatia, Obuasi and Tarkwa, once thriving mining towns, which have little to show for the mining activities that took place there. He contrasted these communities with Johannesburg, South Africa, which has benefited significantly from its mining industry.

 

Police lauded over ‘Democracy Hub’ protestors’ handling

Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, Chief Executive of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), has lauded the Ghana Police Service for their remarkable professionalism and tolerance in handling the ‘Democracy Hub’ demonstrators.

He gave the commendation after videos surfaced showing protesters provoking the police and engaging in various violations during a demonstration at the 37 Intersection in Accra.

Speaking in an interview with Pulse Ghana, Mr. Ofosu Nkansah highlighted the commendable conduct of the Police, particularly under the leadership of Dr. George Akuffo Dampare as the Inspector General of Police. He noted that the calm and mature response by the Police reflected the professionalism often seen in advanced democracies.

“We all saw that in the face of provocation. Our Police remained calm and professional. This is a complete departure from previous governments where citizens exercising their rights were assaulted by the Police. I commend the leadership of the Police Service, and urge them to continue making Ghana proud among the committee of nations,” Mr. Ofosu Nkansah remarked.

The protest, which took place on Sunday, September 22, led to violent confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers, culminating in the arrest of 42 protesters, including some of the event’s organisers. Footage from the scene captured protesters engaging in physical altercations with police, pushing down barricades, and attacking officers who were trying to prevent the demonstrators from gathering at the busy intersection.

On the first day of the protest, September 21, demonstrators blocked all directions at the 37 Intersection with vehicles and stones, set fires, and harassed other road users. Some even took to playing football in the middle of the road, adding to the disruption. The police later described the demonstrators’ actions as “UnGhanaian, uncivil, and unlawful.”

In a statement, the Ghana Police Service highlighted the severe inconvenience caused to the public, including commuters being stuck in traffic for hours, delays in medical care for those who needed urgent treatment, and disruptions to cultural and social activities such as funerals. The protests also affected commercial activities, with people missing flights and being unable to access their businesses.

The Police had warned the protest organisers in advance, offering seven alternative locations for the protest and promising to provide security if they adhered to the suggested venues. However, demonstrators insisted on gathering at the 37 Intersection, leading to a violent confrontation with law enforcement.

One of the conveners of the protest, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, was seen in multiple videos pushing down police barricades and removing the key from a police vehicle, which he later discarded. Though officers attempted to arrest him, Barker-Vormawor managed to flee the scene. He has since been declared wanted by the police.

Mr. Ofosu Nkansah commended the police for maintaining their composure throughout the ordeal, calling their conduct a positive reflection of Ghana’s democratic credentials. He urged the Police Service to continue upholding the law in a manner that promotes peace and national unity.

NAPO warns NDC against EC attacks

The Vice Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has cautioned the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) against its repeated attacks on the Electoral Commission (EC) as the nation approaches the December 7 general elections.

Addressing chiefs and religious leaders at New Edubiase in the Ashanti Region, Dr. Prempeh, popularly known as ‘Napo,’ emphasized that the NDC’s frequent criticisms of the EC could generate unnecessary tension ahead of the crucial polls.

He expressed concern that the NDC’s intense desire to win the elections, particularly under the leadership of former President John Mahama, should not lead to actions that endanger the peace, progress and security of the country.

He warned that casting doubts on the integrity and fairness of the elections management body could have damaging effects on public trust.

“Political parties have the right to protest against the EC, but we must avoid disruptions that cast doubts on the intentions of fair elections,” Dr. Prempeh stated, adding: “Our country can only develop in a peaceful atmosphere,” he added.

The NPP vice presidential candidate also expressed concerns about the NDC’s attempts to portray the EC as a biased institution working to rig the elections in favour of a specific political party.

According to him, this narrative can easily inflame tensions, and disturb the nation’s peace, which is crucial for progress.

“The NDC’s odd and unpatriotic behaviour can create tension, and harm our national peace. It is important for the NDC and its leadership to always prioritize the peace and stability of our country,” Dr. Prempeh said.

He urged all political parties to raise concerns about the electoral process in a manner that promotes national unity and development. “All well-meaning persons must encourage the expression of concerns about the electoral process, but it must be done in the interest of our dear motherland. We must know that we have only one Ghana to develop,” he advised.

Dr. Prempeh further called on Ghanaians to play their part in safeguarding the peace of the nation before, during and after the elections, noting that any disruptions would negatively affect the country’s development trajectory. “Disturbances will draw the country’s development back,” he cautioned. 

‘Bawumia’s policies won’t harm mining sector’- Mireku Duker

The Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and coordinator for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign in mining communities, George Mireku Duker, has assured small-scale miners that their livelihood is secure under a Bawumia-led government.

Addressing a large gathering in Akwatia, he reaffirmed that small-scale mining would not be banned, but urged miners to actively join the government’s fight against illegal mining and environmental degradation.

Launching the Miners4Bawumia group, which drew hundreds of miners from various communities, the Deputy Minister tasked them to become advocates of responsible mining practices, and lead efforts to eliminate river pollution caused by illegal operations. He stressed that Dr. Bawumia appreciates the sector’s significant contribution to the economy, and would not implement policies that harm their jobs.

“Dr. Bawumia recognizes your work and its importance to the economy. He will not pursue policies that threaten this sector. Instead, he will introduce measures to sanitize and improve mining practices,” Duker assured.

He clarified that existing laws already outlaw illegal mining, and the priority should be enforcing these regulations rather than imposing blanket bans. He reiterated Dr. Bawumia’s promise to establish a Mineral Development Bank, which will empower Ghanaians to create responsible mining companies and generate sustainable jobs.

Ernest Yaw Kumi, the NPP parliamentary candidate for Akwatia, highlighted the socioeconomic benefits of small-scale mining, stating that over five million Ghanaians depended on the sector. He emphasised that a total ban would have devastating effects on these livelihoods, and reiterated the NPP’s commitment to safeguarding responsible mining.

Mr. Duker urged miners to join forces with the government in the ongoing fight against illegal mining, emphasizing the need to protect the environment while ensuring sustainable mining practices.

NPP Eastern Regional NPP Chairman, Jeff Konadu, urged miners not to fall for what he termed as the “empty promises” of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). He commended Hon. Duker for championing the cause of small-scale miners both in Parliament and in government. Konadu further challenged the NDC’s presidential candidate to state his stance on the small-scale mining issue.

Ama Sey, former MP for Akwatia, also lent her support to the Miners4Bawumia campaign, assuring miners that their jobs would be protected under a Bawumia presidency.

In response, the leadership of the Miners4Bawumia group expressed their gratitude to Mr. Duker for his reassurances and pledged to campaign vigorously for Dr. Bawumia’s victory in the upcoming elections

Top Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli strike

A top Hezbollah military commander was killed in an Israeli air strike on the Lebanese capital Beirut on Friday, in a major escalation that has added to fears of an all-out war.

Hezbollah confirmed Ibrahim Aqil’s death after Israel said he was one of several senior Hezbollah figures killed in the strike.

Earlier, Lebanese officials said at least 14 people were killed and dozens injured in the strike that hit the densely populated Dahieh area, a stronghold of the Iran-backed group in the city’s southern suburbs.

There were chaotic scenes as emergency teams rushed to the site of the attack, rescuing the wounded and searching for people believed to be trapped under the rubble. At least one residential building collapsed and others were heavily damaged.

Streets were closed by Hezbollah members, some looking incredulous as the attack represented another humiliating blow in a week which saw pagers and walkie-talkies belonging to the group explode.

Dozens were killed and thousands wounded in those attacks, widely believed to be orchestrated by Israel.

Friday’s strike was the first to hit Beirut since July, when Hezbollah’s military chief Fuad Shukr was killed.

In a statement, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Daniel Hagari said Aqil, a senior commander in Hezbollah’s elite Radwan forces, was killed alongside senior operatives in the group’s operations staff and other Radwan commanders.

Hagari said they “were gathered underground under a residential building in the heart of the Dahiyah neighbourhood [in southern Beirut], hiding among Lebanese civilians, using them as human shields”.

The IDF spokesman added that the individuals killed were “planning Hezbollah’s ‘Conquer the Galilee’ attack plan, in which Hezbollah intended to infiltrate Israeli communities and murder innocent civilians”.

The plan was first reported by the Israeli military in 2018, when the IDF said it was blocking tunnels dug by Hezbollah to penetrate Israeli territory and kidnap and murder civilians.

Source: BBC

Bernard Mornah, 10 others disqualified from presidential race

The flagbearer of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Bernard Mornah, have been cut short following his disqualification from the 2024 presidential elections.

The Electoral Commission (EC) released a list of 13 individuals who passed the process and are set to contest the race. However, Mr. Mornah’s name, and about ten others, were missing from the list of approved applicants.

Mr Mornah, among other things, had vowed to put real cash in the pockets of Ghanaians, rather than steal from them.

He had wondered why Ghanaians don’t get a physical share of the gold mined in the country and said with his imminent election, that reality was set to give way to a new one and criticized the recent trend of selling state assets, calling it myopic and shortsighted.

The PNC flagbearer also promised to evolve Ghana’s leadership style, introducing a “Ghanaian-scented” approach. He pledged to make the presidency credible and incorruptible.

Mr Mornah, known in the public space for organising and leading Arise Ghana demonstrations to voice displeasure on national issues, had planned to lead the country on the “right path,” arguing that most of Ghana’s leaders had failed.

He said his desire to become president stemmed from the confidence many Ghanaians had expressed in his ability to change the status quo.

The convener of the Arise Ghana movement also pointed to the greed among the nation’s leaders. However, as a selfless individual, he dreams and visions for Ghana would have wait four more years.

Bernard Mornah is not the only one disqualified. Others are; Desmond Kwame Abrefa, Nana Stephens Agyapong, Dr Paul Perko, Mr James Kwasi Oppong, Dr Sam Ankrah, Dr Nii Amu Darko, Samuel Apea-Danquah all independent candidates.

The rest are; Kofi Asamoah-Siaw of the Progressive People’s Party (PNP) and Janet Asana Nabla of the People’s National Party(PNP) while Dr John Kpikpi of the Progressive Alliance Ghana withdrew his nomination after filing.

Although 39 individuals had picked the nomination only 24 of those filed their forms.

Source: myjoyonline.com

 

Gospel artistes bid KODA farewell

The gospel music community gathered in solemn unity to bid a final farewell to Kofi Owusu Dua-Anto, widely known as KODA, at his burial service held in Accra at the Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) Dominion Centre on Spintex Road in Accra on Friday, September 20, 2024, followed by a private burial..

The solemn all-white funeral saw gospel artists, family members, and friends came together to honour the legacy of the celebrated musician and producer.

The atmosphere was filled with emotion as tributes poured in from those who had worked closely with KODA. Gospel stars Joe Mettle, Nii Okai, and Eugene Zuta were among the many who attended to pay their respects.

In addition to a massive turnout from the gospel fraternity, KODA’s funeral drew attendees from various sectors.

Notable figures spotted at the ceremony included former Minister of Finance Mr. Kwabena Duffuor and former Chairperson of the National Development Planning Commission, Professor Stephen Adei, the CEO of NHIA, Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, among others.

KODA’s colleagues in the music industry were also present, including Joe Mettle, Uncle Ato, Ceccy Twum, Mary Ghansah, Sonnie Badu, Daughters of Glorious Jesus, Eugene Zuta, Francis Amo, Diana Hamilton, Nii Okine, Akese Brempong, and Elder Mireku, among others.

Disqualified presidential aspirants didn’t correct errors – EC

The Electoral Commission (EC) disqualified several presidential aspirants from participating in the December 7, 2024, elections due to their failure to correct errors on their nomination forms.

This announcement was made by Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the EC, during a press briefing in Accra on Friday.

According to the EC, all disqualified candidates were provided ample time to rectify the issues identified in their submissions but were unable to meet the requirements.

Among the disqualified candidates are Bernard Mornah of the People’s National Convention (PNC) and Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party (PNP).

Other candidates affected by the EC’s decision include Nana Stephens Adjepong, Paul Perkoh, James Kwesi Oppong, John Enyonam Kwakwu Kpikpi, Dr. Samuel Sampong Ankrah, and Nii Amu Darko.

Additionally, Samuel Apea-Danquah, Desmond Abrefah, and Kofi Asamoah Siaw of the Progressive People’s Party (PPP) were also disqualified from the race.

The EC emphasized that the disqualification process was carried out in accordance with electoral regulations, ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the process.

The EC Chairperson noted, for instance, that “Mr. Samuel Apea-Dankwa was presented with a number of issues to resolve including not filing a tax certificate for his Vice Presidential candidate and then some of his pages from the form and he had incomplete particulars for some of his supporters.

“Unfortunately, though he was provided with the opportunity to correct this, he was unable to do so and the committee recommended that he is disqualified.”

“Ms. Janet Asana Nabla also used the registration details of supporters in certain districts to support her nomination in other districts. Again, the Vice Presidential candidate did not sign the nomination form. The issues were however not resolved and the committees recommended that she be disqualified.”

“…Mr Bernard Mornah also had incomplete details of supporters. He also used registered voters in a particular district to support the nomination in other districts. His form also contained varying signatures for the same supporters and in some cases the same signature for different supporters. The committee was of the view that he be disqualified.”

Bawumia picks No.1 spot, Mahama No.8 for NDC on ballot paper

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has secured a favourable position in the Electoral Commission’s (EC) balloting for the upcoming December 7, presidential elections.

Evans Nimako, the NPP’s Director of Elections, picked the party’s number during the EC’s balloting event held in Accra on Friday. The NPP will be featured in a prominent position on the ballot paper.

The main opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), drew the 8th position, while the All People’s Congress (APC) candidate, Hassan Abdulai Ayariga, secured the 9th spot.

Kofi Akpaloo of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) picked number 5, and Nana Akosua Frimpomaa of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) drew the 7th position.

Following the Electoral Commission’s (EC) balloting process on September 20, 2024, independent candidates were also assigned their positions on the ballot paper for the upcoming December 7, 2024, presidential election.

Kofi Koranteng, an independent candidate, secured the 10th position, while George Twum Barima will appear in the 11th spot. The New Force Movement, led by Nana Kwame Bediako (Cheddar), has been placed in the 12th position, and the Movement for Change will be listed last at number 13.

These independent candidates will face off against the nine qualified political parties, making the upcoming election a dynamic race as both political parties and independent candidates vie for the presidency.

Earlier, Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the EC, announced that several presidential aspirants had been disqualified from participating in the December 7, 2024, elections due to their failure to correct errors on their nomination forms.

Despite being given ample time to address the issues, the disqualified candidates were unable to meet the necessary requirements.

Among those disqualified are Bernard Mornah of the People’s National Convention (PNC) and Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party (PNP).

We are collaborating with U.S. to extradite former MASLOC Boss – Deputy AG

Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, has revealed that the state is actively pursuing the extradition of former MASLOC Chief Executive, Sedinam Tamakloe Attionu, to Ghana to serve her 10-year sentence.

Tuah-Yeboah confirmed that Attionu is currently residing in the United States, and the government is working with U.S. authorities to facilitate her return to Ghana to face justice.

“She was convicted by the court in Ghana sometime ago and after the conviction, I made it known to the media that we were going to take steps to have her extradited to Ghana and we started taking those steps and in collaboration with our intentional partners, we know where she is and very soon, definitely, she may be extradited to Ghana.

“The issue of going through the process is necessary and we are filing all the documentation and if everything goes through, she will definitely come back to Ghana to begin her sentence. She is in the United States of America,” the deputy AG told Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM.

Tuah-Yeboah added, “When it comes to extradition processes, for example, you have to go through the court processes to get a court order and what we are supposed to do is furnish the US authorities with whatever we have and wait on them so that the moment they finish with the processes, she will be brought down to Ghana.”

The Accra High Court on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, sentenced Ms. Tamakloe to 10 years in prison for stealing, procurement breaches and causing GH¢90 million financial loss to the state.

She was dragged together with a former Operations Manager of MASLOC, Daniel Axim, to court in January 2019.

The two were charged with 78 counts of stealing, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state, among others.

Source: citinewsroom.com

Police outlines rules guidelines for NDC’s nationwide demonstration against EC

The Ghana Police Service has provided guidelines and rules to oversee the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s planned nationwide demonstration against the Electoral Commission (EC).

The police stressed the need for peaceful and lawful conduct during the protests, emphasising that demonstrators must follow designated routes and timelines.

The Service made this known at a press conference on Monday, September 16.

The protest by the NDC is against the EC’s rejection of the party’s recommendation to audit the voter register ahead of the December election.

The police also highlighted the importance of collaboration with organisers to ensure public safety, urging participants to refrain from violence or property destruction.

They cautioned against destruction to property which may lead to surcharges as security personnel will be deployed across all demonstration routes to maintain order.

Ghana Link’s ICUMS Introduce Advanced Weighbridge System at Ports…

Ghana Link Network Services Ltd has completed the construction of four weighbridges at Tema Port GPHA Terminal 1 and two at the Atlantic Terminal Services in Takoradi.

While all the weighbridges provide Gross, Tare, and Net weights (i.e. standard weights) of cargoes, some of the weighbridges are multideck.

Outside the standard weights’ measurements, a multi-deck weighbridge also provides axle weights of trucks which is of interest to the Highway Authority.

The weighbridges have been integrated into ICUMS (Integrated Customs Management System), marking a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to modernize its ports and enhance revenue collection.

The move is expected to benefit multiple stakeholders, including Ghana’s Customs Division, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) with respect to the net weights, and axle weights for the Ghana Highway Authority for the protection of the nation’s road infrastructure.

The new weighbridge system, operational at both the Atlantic Terminal in Takoradi Port and at the country’s biggest port Tema Port, is designed to accurately measure imports and exports cargo weights. This precision is crucial for the proper calculation of duties and taxes on all consignments.

Norvan Acquah-Hayford, PR Manager of Ghana Link Network Services, spoke to the Media about the initiative.

“Our goal with this new module is to bring greater transparency and efficiency to Ghana’s import processes,” he stated. “By providing accurate weight measurements, we’re not only enhancing revenue collection but also contributing to fair trade practices.”

The implementation of the weighbridge system comes at a critical time for Ghana. In 2022, Ghana’s ports handled over 25 million metric tonnes of cargo, underscoring the potential impact of even small improvements in measurement accuracy.

The new system is not just about revenue, however. It also addresses a long-standing issue of road degradation caused by overloaded trucks.

By providing accurate weight information to the Ghana Highway Authority, the system will help enforce load limits, potentially saving millions in road repair costs.

The weighbridge module is integrated with the existing ICUMS, which Ghana Link introduced in 2020 to replace the previous port systems.

ICUMS has been credited with streamlining customs processes and improving revenue collection, despite initial implementation challenges.

Industry experts see the addition of the weighbridge module as a logical next step in Ghana’s digitalization journey. The system also aligns with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to boost intra-African trade. By providing accurate and transparent weight measurements, Ghana is setting a standard that could be emulated across the continent.

As a key transit point for landlocked countries like Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, Ghana’s ports play a crucial role in regional trade. The accurate weighing of transit goods will facilitate smoother cross-border transportation and potentially reduce disputes over cargo weights at inland borders.

Western leaders complicit in Africa’s corruption- Okyenhene

Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, the Okyenhene, has stated that Western leaders and their economies cannot be absolved from the corruption that plagues Africa.

Speaking at a lecture themed “Sustainable Leadership in African Governance” at the University of Bradford’s School of Management, he argued that the actions and inactions of Western leaders contribute significantly to the corruption on the African continent.

According to the Okyenhene, many Western countries have become safe havens for corrupt African politicians who stash away their ill-gotten wealth without scrutiny.

He illustrated this point by comparing the stringent checks imposed on ordinary citizens when depositing money in banks, noting that African leaders are able to move vast sums into foreign accounts without being questioned.

“If I go to the bank with $15,000 today, the teller would immediately alert the manager to inquire about the source of the money. But African leaders can deposit far more in foreign banks without facing any probes. Why should this be the case?” he questioned.

Osagyefuo expressed concerns that many African leaders not only deposit vast amounts of money abroad, but also invest heavily in real estate in foreign countries without being asked about the origins of these funds.

He called on Western nations to hold African leaders accountable for such investments, insisting that global leadership must be bold in questioning these financial dealings.

He urged leaders to embody a servant leadership model, reminding them that true leadership is about service, not personal gain. “Whoever wants to be great must become a servant. Whoever wants to be first must be a slave. That is what the Son of Man did: He came to serve, not to be served,” Okyenhene stated.

Okyenhene expressed disappointment in the lack of decisive action from world leaders to fight climate change.

He criticized the major nations that contribute the most to carbon emissions, accusing them of failing to take the necessary steps to combat the growing climate crisis.

“They sit around tables, sip tea, and laugh, yet no concrete solutions are provided to tackle climate change,” he lamented. Okyenhene warned that the world was fast approaching an environmental catastrophe, adding that humanity’s unrelenting pursuit of material wealth is exacerbating the crisis.

He referenced scientific data to illustrate the urgency of the situation, pointing out that carbon dioxide concentrations in the Earth’s atmosphere have reached alarming levels, rising by 47.3% since the Industrial Age and an additional 11% since 2000.

“If the current rate of emissions continues, he cautioned, the air we breathe by 2040 will contain more than 50% carbon dioxide, making life on Earth increasingly difficult. This should terrify us all,” he said. “Our children may face far shorter lives than we do, and it cannot be business as usual,” he stressed.

NPP presents 2nd Deputy Speaker of Parliament as PC for Fomena

The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has unanimously endorsed Andrew Amoako Asiamah, the 2nd Deputy Speaker of Parliament, as its parliamentary candidate for the Fomena constituency in the 2024 elections. This decision was confirmed during the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.

In a statement delivered by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, during a constituency campaign tour in Fomena, he highlighted the overwhelming support the party had received from Mr. Asiamah, who currently serves as the independent MP for the constituency.

Addressing the leadership of the Fomena constituency, Mr. Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, expressed confidence that the Fomena seat would return to the NPP with Asiamah as its candidate.

He recalled the 2020 elections, during which Asiamah, originally an NPP MP, won the seat as an independent candidate after a fallout with the party. However, his decision to align with the NPP in Parliament, after his victory, ensured the party’s majority control, and helped prevent the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) from gaining an advantage.

Wontumi lauded Asiamah’s loyalty, stating that his dedication and commitment to the NPP should not go unnoticed.

He expressed the party’s gratitude to the 2nd Deputy Speaker for his pivotal role in maintaining the party’s image and influence in Parliament.

“Having Andrew Amoako Asiamah return to his roots in the NPP signals a wind of victory for both the constituency and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming elections,” Wontumi remarked, adding that this was a moment of great importance for the party.

In response, Mr Asiamah shared his delight at re-joining the NPP, which he referred to as the party closest to his heart.

He expressed his commitment to leading the NPP to a historic victory in the Fomena constituency, ensuring a resounding win for both himself and the party’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

Mr. Asiamah called on party members to put past disagreements behind them, and work together towards a common goal. He urged constituency leaders, particularly Assembly members, to focus on highlighting the numerous development projects currently ongoing in the constituency as part of their campaign strategy to secure more votes for the NPP.

Mr. Andrew Amoako Asiamah, who first entered Parliament in 2016 on the NPP ticket, contested and won the Fomena seat as an independent candidate in 2020, after a dispute with the party. His decision to re-join the NPP as its parliamentary candidate is seen as a major boost for the party’s prospects in the constituency.

The regional campaign tour by Chairman Wontumi also took him to other communities within the Fomena constituency, including Adokwai, Dompoase, and Old Edubiase, where he engaged constituents on the importance of retaining the NPP in power in the upcoming December 2024 elections.

‘Aquaculture for food and jobs’ initiative for Mion

The government, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, has launched the “Aquaculture for Food and Jobs” initiative, a nationwide project aimed at boosting food production and creating employment opportunities.

The initiative focuses on utilising small dams and reservoirs across the country for fish farming, with a dual objective of ensuring food security and generating jobs, particularly for the youth. It has already begun in the Gomoa-Central in the Central Region, and is now being expanded to other parts of the country, including the Northern Region, where its potential impact is expected to be substantial.

Speaking during the launch at Zakpalsi in the Mion constituency of the Northern Region, the Member of Parliament for the Mion Constituency and Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Musah Abdul Aziz-Ayaba, emphasised the government’s determination to provide sustainable employment for the youth through aquaculture.

He indicated that the initiative was aligned with the government’s broader agenda to alleviate poverty and boost economic activity, particularly in rural communities.

“The aim of this initiative is to create employment avenues for a lot of people, particularly the youth. By so doing, we will be able to alleviate poverty and promote economic activities with the five northern regions in the country,” he noted.

The Mion lawmaker further called on his constituents and residents of the five northern regions to fully embrace the opportunity provided by the programme. He said the initiative would not only create jobs, but also ensure food security by increasing the availability of fish, a critical source of protein, in the region.

He added that programme’s implementation would go a long way in improving livelihoods and enhancing local economies. “The government is committed to ensuring that young people, especially in rural areas, benefit from this initiative. It is an opportunity that we must not miss,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister further reiterated that aquaculture, through the effective use of small dams and reservoirs, could transform the agricultural landscape in the north and other parts of the country.

He urged the youth and all stakeholders to collaborate with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development to ensure the success of the initiative.

“I must say the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs programme is one of the government’s flagship initiatives designed to address unemployment and food insecurity, with a special focus on regions such as ours that have significant potential for aquaculture development,” he added.

In 2022, Ghana’s fish requirement stood at 1.31 million metric tonnes, while domestic production was only 657,000 tonnes. This shortfall necessitated the importation of 650,000 tonnes of fish, costing US$311 million.

The Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Programme aims to bridge this gap by boosting local fish production, thereby reducing dependence on imports, conserving foreign exchange, and ensuring the availability of fresh, domestically-produced fish

The programme’s impact extends beyond increasing fish production. It is poised to transform lives by creating thousands of jobs, particularly for the youth and women. The initiative will provide training and support to aspiring fish farmers, equipping them with the skills and resources necessary for success.

It will also foster a network of fish farms across the country, enhancing Ghana’s capacity to meet the growing demand for fish and stimulating the development of related industries such as fish feed production, processing, and marketing.

South Sudan postpones long-delayed election by two years

South Sudan’s government has decided to postpone a long-delayed national election until December 2026, the presidency said on Friday, underscoring the challenges facing the country’s fragile peace process.

“The presidency, under the chairmanship of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, has announced an extension of the country’s transitional period by two years as well as postponing elections, which were initially scheduled for December 2024 to December 22nd, 2026,” Kiir’s office said on Facebook.

South Sudan has been formally at peace since a 2018 deal ended a five-year conflict responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths, but violence between rival communities flares frequently.

Until Friday’s announcement, it was planning to choose leaders to succeed the current transitional government, which includes Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, whose respective forces battled each other during the civil war.

“There is a need for additional time to complete essential tasks before the polls,” Kiir’s office said.

Boeing and union negotiators to resume talks next week amid strike, federal mediators say

Boeing and union negotiators will return to the bargaining table early next week, U.S. federal mediators said on Friday, as the two sides try to end a strike threatening the airplane maker’s turnaround.

The U.S. Federal Mediation & Conciliation Service late on Friday said it was convening the parties with a federal mediator after speaking to both sides, less than a day after union members voted by a huge majority to reject Boeing’s contract offer and went on strike.

“The parties will resume meetings early next week,” it said in a statement.

More than 30,000 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) who produce Boeing’s top-selling 737 MAX and other jets in the Seattle and Portland areas voted on their first full contract in 16 years, with 94.6% rejecting Boeing’s offer and 96% favoring a strike. Workers vowed to fight for a better pay offer than the company had made.

Shortly after midnight on the West Coast, striking workers started to gather outside Boeing factories in the Seattle area.

Chief Financial Officer Brian West said Boeing wants to get back to the negotiating table, saying the walkout will make it harder for the plane maker to meet the production target for the 737 MAX jet and stabilize its supply chain. The union was also eager to return to the table as quickly as possible.

“This is about fighting for our future,” said Jon Holden, who headed negotiations for Boeing’s largest union before announcing the strike vote result on Thursday.

Boeing declined to comment on the mediator’s comments and the union was not immediately available for comment.

Workers have been protesting all week in Boeing factories in the Seattle area that assemble Boeing’s MAX, 777 and 767 jets. On Friday evening, members in the union hall cheered and chanted “Strike! Strike! Strike!”

Boeing’s stock fell 3.7% on Friday. It has tumbled almost 40% so far this year, slashing the company’s market value by roughly $58 billion. Boeing’s corporate bonds also lost value, with spreads between their yields and comparable U.S. Treasuries widening sharply.

A long strike could further damage Boeing’s finances, already groaning due to a $60 billion debt pile. The planemaker needs to generate sufficient cash flow to meet payments on the debt. A strike also would weigh on airlines that fly Boeing jets and suppliers that manufacture parts.

Moody’s put the planemaker’s rating on review, while Fitch said a prolonged strike could increase the risk of a downgrade. On Thursday, S&P Global Ratings said an extended strike could hurt Boeing’s overall rating, which is one notch above junk status. A downgrade could increase Boeing’s cost to issue debt.

Boeing said it had offered workers everything it could and now must reach a deal to end the strike while planning for investments needed to replace its best-selling single-aisle models. CFO West said the company would be “laser-like focused on action to conserve cash,” adding the strike will “jeopardize our recovery.”

New CEO Kelly Ortberg was brought in just weeks ago to restore faith in the planemaker after a door panel blew off a 737 MAX jet mid-air last January. He offered a contract including a pay rise of 25% over four years, far lower than the 40% workers had demanded. Union leaders recommended approval of the contract, but angry members voted overwhelmingly to strike and fight for the original 40% wage increase demand and an annual bonus.

Source: Reuters

US and British citizens among 37 sentenced to death in DR Congo coup trial

Thirty-seven people – including three Americans, a Briton, a Belgian and a Canadian national – have been sentenced to death over an attempt to overthrow the president of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The men were accused of leading an attack on both the presidential palace and the home of an ally of President Félix Tshisekedi in May.

Christian Malanga, a US national of Congolese origin, the suspected leader of the plot, was killed during the attack, along with five others.

In total 51 people were tried in a military court, with hearings broadcast on national TV and radio.

Malanga’s son Marcel, one of the US citizens sentenced to death, previously told the court that his father had threatened to kill him unless he took part.

His friend Tyler Thompson, was also given the death penalty. The pair, aged in their 20s, had played football together in Utah.

His stepmother Miranda Thompson in June told the BBC the family had “zero idea” how he had ended up in DR Congo.

“We were in complete shock as to what was happening, and the unknown. Everything we were learning was what we were getting off Google,” she said.

The third American, Benjamin Zalman-Polun, had business interests with Christian Malanga.

Also sentenced to death was Jean-Jacques Wondo, a dual Congolese and Belgian citizen.

Human Rights Watch previously described him as a prominent researcher on regional politics and security, and suggested the evidence connecting him to the coup attempt was thin.

The AFP news agency reports that the Briton and Canadian nationals were of Congolese origin.

The court heard the British national, Youssouf Ezangi, had helped recruit some of the others who took part.

Of the 51 tried, 14 people were acquitted and freed, with the court finding they had no connection to the attack.

Those convicted have five days to appeal against their sentences.

Death sentences have not been carried out in DR Congo for roughly two decades – convicts who receive the penalty serve life imprisonment instead.

The government lifted this moratorium in March this year, citing the need to remove “traitors” from the nation’s dysfunctional army. However, no death penalties have been carried out since.

The attempted coup began in the capital, Kinshasa, in the early hours of 19 May. Armed men first attacked parliamentary speaker Vital Kamerhe’s home in Kinshasa then headed to the president’s official residence.

Witnesses say a group of about 20 assailants in army uniform attacked the palace and an exchange of gunfire followed.

An army spokesman later announced on national TV that security forces had stopped “an attempted coup d’etat”.

Local media reports said the assailants were members of the New Zaire Movement linked to Malanga, an exiled DR Congolese politician.

Malanga was shot dead in the attack after resisting arrest, said army spokesperson Brig Gen Sylavin Ekenge.

President Tshisekedi was re-elected for a second term in disputed elections last year in December. He won about 78% of the vote.

DR Congo is a country with vast mineral wealth and a huge population. Despite this, life is difficult for many people, with conflict, corruption and poor governance persisting.

Much of the country’s natural resources lie in the east where violence still rages despite Mr Tshisekedi’s attempts to deal with the situation by imposing a state of siege, ceasefire deals and bringing in troops from neighbouring countries.

Source: BBC

Kamala Harris pledges to cut degree requirements for certain federal jobs

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris said on Friday she will cut college degree requirements for certain federal jobs if elected president after the Nov. 5 elections in which she faces Republican former President Donald Trump.

The Democratic presidential candidate said the U.S. should recognize the value of paths to success beyond a college degree, like apprenticeships and technical programs.

“As president, I will get rid of the unnecessary degree requirements for federal jobs to increase jobs for folks without a four-year degree,” Harris said in her speech.

A degree does not necessarily indicate a person’s skills, Harris said. She added: “And I will challenge the private sector to do the same.”

Both Harris and Trump have been trying to appeal to voters with economic pledges. Harris has said she will aim to pass a middle class tax cut. Trump has advocated for cutting taxes on overtime pay. Both have supported eliminating taxes on tips.

Harris’ speech in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, also faced some interruption from protesters opposing U.S. support for Israel’s war in Gaza that has killed tens of thousands and caused a humanitarian crisis. It followed a deadly Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Palestinian Hamas militants.

Demonstrators in the U.S. have for months demanded an end to the war and restrictions on shipments of weapons to Israel.

Harris reiterated her support for a ceasefire and hostage rescue deal.

“Now is the time to get a hostage deal and ceasefire,” Harris said when interrupted. “I respect your voice, but right now, I am speaking,” she added.

Harris is in a tight race with Trump. Observers have said that if Muslim and Arab Americans, who overwhelmingly voted for the Democrats in the last presidential election, withhold their vote, it may hurt Harris’ chances.

Source: Reuters

Government sets up inter-ministerial committee to engage stakeholders on illegal mining

The government has established an inter-ministerial committee to engage all stakeholders to assess its effort in tackling the illegal mining menace in Ghana.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Information disclosed that the five-member committee will be chaired by the National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah.

Other members of the committee are the Minister for Lands and Natural Resource, Samuel Abu Jinapor, Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul, Employment and Labour Minister Ignatius Baffour Awuah and Minister for Information Fatimatu Abubakar.

Government will make public sector more resilient — President Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reiterated the government’s commitment to making the public sector more resilient, efficient, and responsive to the needs of Ghanaians.

Speaking at the opening session of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) fifth anniversary celebration in Kwahu, President Akufo-Addo said that the government’s aim to make the public sector more resilient was intended to boost performance and deliver better services to citizens.

He emphasized the importance of transforming the public sector to ensure that it was more efficient and effective in delivering quality services to the populace.

SIGA, established in 2019 by Act 990, is a centralized oversight body that aims to facilitate performance management in State-Owned Enterprises and other prescribed bodies.

The Authority’s mandate is to ensure that these entities operate within the framework of government policy, operating efficiently, effectively, and profitably, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of the country.

President Akufo-Addo, in his keynote address, stated that the government would work to make the public sector more resilient and adequately equipped to meet the demands of the future through the implementation of necessary reforms.

These reforms he mentioned included the Public Financial Management Act, the Legal Policy, SIGA, and the Right to Information bill.

He also stated that the Office of the Special Prosecutor would play a crucial role in holding public institutions more accountable and ensuring that national resources were managed with integrity and efficiency.

“As my tenure comes to an end, I urge stakeholders to build upon the foundations we have laid, leveraging technology, driving efficiency through national digitalization, upholding corporate governance standards, and investing in the capacity building of our institutions,” he added.

Mr John Boadu, the Director-General of SIGA, outlined some achievements of the Authority for the past five years, citing that the number of entities covered under the Annual Performance Contracts had expanded from 50 in 2020 to 79 in 2024.

Also, SIGA successfully published the State Ownership Reports for 2021, 2022, and 2023 within this year, describing it as a remarkable accomplishment.

Furthermore, he said that their collaboration with the Comptroller and Accountant General Department had resulted in a substantial increase in the number of specified entities captured in the Consolidated National Accounts of Ghana – from 19 entities in 2020 to 62 in 2022.

He further stated that the Specified Entities’ contribution to Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product also surged from GHc10 billion in 2020 to GHc58.27 billion in 2022, with total assets rising from GHc51.8 billion to GHc419.2 billion over the same period.

Madam Louisa Shei, leader of the Namibia delegation to the event, said, “I believe that with the true spirit of Pan-Africanism, we can work together to transform our economy.”

The anniversary will be climaxed with awards of excellence on the event’s second day.

Source: GNA

EC to announce qualified presidential candidates on September 17

The Electoral Commission (EC) has set Tuesday, September 17, to determine the fate of both presidential and parliamentary candidates who have filed to contest in the 2024 General Elections.

At the start of the filing process, the EC established two committees to scrutinise the nomination forms of the various aspirants.

As the filing of nominations closes today, the EC has revealed that it is well advanced in vetting the forms received so far.

However, reports indicate that the committees have already detected multiple endorsements for some aspirants.

The Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations, Samuel Tetteh, said the EC would announce only the names of those who successfully went through the nomination process.

“Within the next two that is after Saturday when we have actually seen all the numbers maybe Sunday or Monday, we should be able to know all those who qualified for the next aspect which is balloting for positions on the presidential ballot paper,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said the commission has started writing to presidential aspirants who have already been found to have errors in their forms, requesting them to correct these as stipulated by law.

He explained that those who filed their forms today will, however, have until Saturday to correct any identified errors and resubmit them.

Ghana and Austria renew commitment to boost trade, investment relations

Ghana and Austria have renewed their commitment to deepen economic collaboration and bolster trade and investment ties at all levels.

The two countries, led by Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and Mr Jackson Alexander Schallenberg, Austria’s Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, pledged to explore the many untapped business and economic opportunities in the two countries.

The Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs is in Ghana to officially open the Embassy of the Republic of Austria in Accra and to deepen the long-standing relationship between Ghana and Austria.

Among others, the Austrian delegation, which includes business leaders, would participate in a Business Breakfast meeting at the Movenpick Hotel, with discussions centered on enhancing commercial ties.

Speaking at a joint press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration ahead of the opening, Madam Ayorkor Botchwey, urged Austrian businesses to seize opportunities in Ghana, highlighting the country’s access to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its vast market of 1.3 billion people.

The Foreign Affairs Minister said despite decades of diplomatic cooperation, trade and investment between the two nations remained low and economic growth had not kept pace with the long-standing ties.

She, therefore, called for greater effort to foster partnerships that would drive development, encouraging Austrian companies to explore new ventures in Ghana as the country was positioned as a gateway to Africa’s growing markets under the AfCFTA framework.

Madam Ayorkor Botchwey assured the delegation that “doing business in Ghana means having access to the world’s largest free trade area with 54 countries, 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of 3.4 trillion United States Dollars.”

The visit, she said, highlighted the unwavering commitment to bilateral cooperation and the shared determination by both countries to address global concerns.

Two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the Government of the Republic of Austria and the Government of the Republic of Ghana on Cooperation in the Field of Development, Mobility and Migration; and Reciprocal Access to the Labour Market for Dependents of Members of Diplomatic Missions and Career Consular Posts, were signed.

Further agreements were set to be signed during the Business Forum, including a health cooperation MoU between Ghana’s Ministry of Health, the University of Ghana, Austria’s University of Innsbruck, and MED-EL GmbH.

Another agreement between the University of Ghana and Austria’s University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) aimed to boost academic and research collaboration, will also be signed as part of the visit.

Mr Schallenberg, who described the partnership between Ghana and Austria as mutually beneficial, said the future prosperity of the two countries would depend on a stronger partnership.

He said the partnership between the two countries was a sign of commitment and mutual trust and belief in the potential of the opportunities the partnership and friendship could hold, stressing that “we are bringing our bilateral relations to a new level.”

The Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs said the future of security and prosperity of Europe lay in the partnership with Africa, and that “Ghana is a strong and logical partner.”

Mahama vows to jail galamseyers

The 2024 presidential candidate of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), former President John Dramani Mahama, has vowed to put an end to the menace of illegal small-scale mining (galamsey), and ensure that all persons caught engaging in the act are thrown into jail, if he is elected to return to the seat of government as the next President.

The former president made the promise during a campaign stop at a community durbar in Aboabo No. 4 in the Dormaa Central constituency in the Bono Region.

Reports indicate that while some of the people at the community durbar greeted the promise with applause and cheers, others were skeptical, and referred to the former President’s previous position and utterances on the fight against galamsey.

The promise by the 2024 presidential candidate of the NPP to deal with galamseyers comes on the back of increasing demands for a complete ban on all mining activities, given the devastation of the environment by illegal small-scale miners.

Some analysts, however, believe the promise by the former President has exposed him as being an inconsistent person, who only seeks to gain political capital out of issues of concern to the people.

Former President John Dramani Mahama as well as leading members of his party’s communication team are infamously known for encouraging the work of galamseyers, reaping electoral advantage from their position in the 2020 general elections.

Addressing a rally in the Mpohor constituency in the Western Region on October 22, 2020, former President Mahama made a solemn pledge to grant amnesty to all galamseyers imprisoned under the Addo-led administration, if he won the 2020 election.

But, in sharp U-turn, the same Mr Mahama says he is now prepared to jail the very people he had previously promised to grant jail amnesty.

Ghana’s democratic evolution ushers in new dawn of development — President Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo says the significant improvement in the country’s democratic dispensation, particularly under the Fourth Republican Constitution, has ushered in a new dawn of participatory governance.

“The voices of women, youth, and marginalised groups, which were often silenced during the years of military rule, are now heard loud and clear,” he noted.

Addressing the Ghana Bar Association’s (GBA) annual conference in Kumasi, the President said that the inclusive political landscape had brought all identifiable groups on board, with Parliament becoming more representative and civil society more engaged than ever before.

Ghana has witnessed one of the longest periods of democratic rule under the Fourth Republic, after the First, Second and Third Republican Constitutions were torpedoed in military coups in 1966, 1972 and 1981, respectively.

Since 1992, the country has emerged as the beacon of democracy in sub-Saharan Africa, upholding the rule of law to the letter to enhance political stability and sustainable growth.

The country’s democratic credentials are at stake as Ghana goes to the polls on December 07, this year, in an election described by political pundits as one of the most keenly contested General Elections.

The polls come at a time when the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, is reeling from a fractured union and declining democratic tenets, following the spread of violent extremism and military coups, especially in Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali.

In the run up to the elections, President Akufo-Addo has assured the populace of a peaceful, fair, and transparent exercise.

“Elections are not merely a democratic ritual; they are the very lifeblood of our political system. They are the mechanism through which the people exercise their sovereign will, choose their leaders, and hold them accountable,” he stated.

The President was optimistic the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) would retain power, elaborating the successes chalked in various sectors of the economy over the last seven years.

“The NPP’s path to victory is through a robust defense of its exceptional, proven track record in office and the continuing modernisation of Ghana’s future, championed by our excellent presidential candidate and his dynamic running mate,” he remarked.

Source: GNA

We are committed to peaceful, fair elections – EC

The Electoral Commission (EC) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring peaceful and fair elections in the upcoming December polls, stressing that its reputation is on the line.

At the launch of Citi FM and Channel One TV’s 2024 General Elections coverage in Accra on Tuesday, Dr. Eric Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the EC in charge of Corporate Services, assured the public of the commission’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of electoral integrity.

Dr. Asare emphasized that the EC and its officials are under scrutiny from both the country and the international community, and that failure is not an option.

“The commission is fully committed. Our reputation is on the line. We know many people. Mr Avle and I used to be in the LPU together. He used to be my Sunday school teacher. We’ve known each other for many, many years. So, I will find it very, very strange for him to hear that I got an opportunity to do something for my country and I didn’t do it right. Our reputations are on the line. We have family members; we have friends like everyone else.

“When I used to be at Legon, every year I’m teaching over 2000 students. So I know many people and I think all these people will be counting on me that the great work I did, I was teaching at the University of Ghana, I should be able to replicate that and the commission is fully committed and we, the noise we hear, we know that we’ll do a good thing and we know the good Lord out there will also ensure that he blesses the work of our hands.”

“So, we know, come December 7, the processes I outlined, we only need the parties to have their agents at the polling stations and when the counting is done, everything will be done clearly. So, the commission will make sure that we deliver another successful election,” Dr Bossman Asare underscored.

The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) also called on the police to take stringent action against individuals who commit electoral offences during the upcoming 2024 General Elections.

National Coordinator of CODEO, Albert Arhin emphasised the need for accountability and strict enforcement of electoral laws to ensure a free, fair, and credible election process.

Mr Arhin highlighted the detrimental impact of electoral offences on the democratic process and urged the EC to punish offenders to serve as a deterrent to others.

“Impunity is so much that is why wrongdoing is still ongoing…When people are apprehended, they should be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others,” he stated.

Source: citinewsroom.com

Information Minister opens 3rd Media Capacity Enhancement Programme

The Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has opened the 3rd Media Capacity Enhancement Programme (MCEP) to enhance the skills of journalists and media practitioners, ensuring a high standard of professionalism across the country.

in her remarks at the openeing ceremony on tuesday, September 10, 2024, she said, “MoI in collaboration with the University of Media Arts and Communications (UniMAC) seek to position the media to play its role effectively as the fourth estate in our governance system. The programme aligns with one of the key strategic objectives of the Ministry, which is to improve the participation of civil society in our national development.”

“Key beneficiaries of the programme are reporters, commentators, producers, directors, social media executives, anchors, editors, owners of media organisations, media critics, analysts and civil society organisations.”

Mrs Fatimatu Abubakar noted that the training was essential in enhancing the media professionalism and supporting the country’s democratic processes.

She urged journalists to avoid partisan stunts and adhere to the ethics of the profession.

She stated, “The media is a powerful tool that carries great responsibility. Uphold honesty and truth in your work. As journalists, it is essential to remain dedicated to the ethical standards of the profession.”

The Minister further advised the participants to make the most of the training because the knowledge and experiences gained would help them advance in their careers.

“Take in the richness of knowledge, participate actively and learn from the esteemed facilitators, the tools gained from the programme would enable you to make meaningful contributions to the nation’s progress,” she added.

The 2024 MCEP, themed “Equipping the Media to Play an Effective Role in Nation Building,” focused on training 100 journalists from various media houses across the country.

NPP is in good shape to win December 7 Election — Bawumia

The Vice President and Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, says with barely three months to the December elections, the narrative has changed with the NPP now having the momentum to win the December 7 Election.

He said about a year ago, his opponents were so confident of victory, but with 89 days left for the elections, the electoral indicators were favouring the NPP to cruise to victory on December 7 polls.

Vice President Bawumia, who was addressing party supporters at the NPP’s headquarters in Accra, after filing his nomination forms to contest the December Presidential Election, said the elephant Party was in good shape and moving to victory in this year’s elections.

“The elections is about ideas, and not fighting, those who don’t have ideas resort to fighting.

“My vision is to uplift and transform Ghana,”Dr Bawumia assured.

The NPP Flagbearer said the NPP Government had outperformed the NDC in almost every sector and highlighted some of the policy interventions and infrastructural development implemented by the Akufo-Addo-led government.

The Majority Leader of Parliament, Mr Afenyo Markin, said the NPP was an inclusive Party that provided opportunity for everyone to excel, irrespective of religious or ethnic backgrounds.

Mr Markin, thus, charged the rank and file of the Party to unite behind the Flagbearer and work extra hard in the constituencies, electoral areas and polling stations for victory in this year’s elections.

Mr Daniel Botwe, the National Chairman of the Bawumia Campaign, entreated the Party supporters to eschew complacency and work hard to realise the vision of winning the December polls.

He said the Party had men and women of integrity and thus, urged them to conduct decent and idea-based campaign.

The gathering at the Party’s headquarters attracted the wife of the Flagbearer, Mrs Hajia Samira Bawumia, NPP Running Mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh and his wife, Mrs Ablade-Prempeh, National Chairman of the Party, Stephen Ayesu Ntim, the General Secretary, Mr Justin Kodua Frimpong, and party supporters.

Source: GNA

Lariba Abudu withdraws from Walewale NPP primary

Lariba Abudu, the Member of Parliament for Walewale, has announced her withdrawal from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) primary in the constituency.

Her decision comes just ahead of a scheduled National Executive Committee meeting on September 11, 2024, which aims to address the situation.

In a letter, the Walewale MP noted, “Following the inconclusive re-run of the parliamentary primary in the Walewale constituency yesterday (with the Electoral Commission unable to declare a result as a result of an unfortunate incident),

“I have decided that in the interest of the greater good of the new patriotic party and peace and unity in the Walewale constituency, I will no longer be a candidate for MP in the 2024 elections. I am therefore formally withdrawing from the contest.

“I would like to thank the party for the honour done me in representing my constituency over the last four years and can assure the party of my continued support in the 2024 election campaign.”

The High Court in Tamale on Monday, September 2, declared the December 2023 primary null and void and ordered for a rerun that came off yesterday [Monday, September 9] which was marred by chaos during the sorting process.

The Electoral Commission (EC) declared the September 9 rerun as null and void after an unknown individual disrupted the sorting process and destroyed most of the ballot papers.

The withdrawal of the MP’s candidature indicates Dr. Kabiru Tia Mahama will be on the ballot for the NPP on December 7.

Maame Dokono celebrates 80th birthday in grand style and launches a book

Veteran Ghanaian actress, Grace Omaboe, known widely in the entertainment industry as Maame Dokono, has marked her 80th birthday in a lavish and star-studded style.

Although Maame Dokono turned 80 in June this year, she threw a party to celebrate being an octogenarian with the launch of a book called “Unforgettable Maame Dokono.”

The party reeked of class as celebrities and important dignitaries trooped in to celebrate with her.

Maame Dokono was draped a lush blue gown, simple make-up as she beamed with smiles from ear to ear. She interacted with her former colleague actors, chiefs and other celebrities in different industries.

To join her cut the cake were David Dontoh who has been a key player in Maame Dokono’s life and career, Koku Anyidoho and some members of royalty.

Also spotted at the party were Nana Ama McBrown, Prophet Kofi Oduro, Adwoa Smart, Fred Amugi, Christine Doe Tetteh, Abeiku Santana. The party was hosted by comedian, DKB.

Maame Dokono is a household name in Ghana with over 5 decades of acting experience in movies and theatre arts. She is most famous for her storytelling television program ‘By the Fireside’. She was also the lead actress of the Obra Drama Group and the African drama television series, Akan Drama.

She starred in so many movies and has three music albums to her name. She continues to work by hosting radio and talk shows and also address socio-economic problems in the country.

Selena Gomez joins Bloomberg’s billionaire list

American pop star, Selena Gomez is now a billionaire, according to Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index.

The actress, singer, and entrepreneur amassed an estimated $1.3 billion fortune from her Rare Beauty brand to music and hit shows.

According to the publication, more than 80% of Gomez’s net worth derives from her stake in Rare Beauty Brand Inc.

Brand partnerships, acting deals, and mental health startups also contributed to her wealth.

Gomez came into the spotlight as a child star in the 2000s. She reportedly made around $3 million for her role as Alex Russo in the Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place from 2007 to 2012.

She then launched a music career, first with the pop-rock band Selena Gomez & the Scene and then as a solo artist.

With 424 million followers, Gomez is behind only football icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as the most popular person on Instagram.

Music tours only accounted for less than 5% of Gomez’s wealth, with album and record sales less than 2%. She hasn’t toured since 2016.

Most of Gomez’s fortune — roughly $1.1 billion — comes from her stake in Rare Beauty.

‘Young artistes have reduced quality of music’- Korede Bello

Nigerian singer Korede Bello has said that young artistes have reduced the quality of music coming out of the country.

The 28-year-old spoke in a recent episode of Hip TV’s programme Trending, hosted by reality star KimOprah.

According to him, young artists lack the experience to make quality music. He claimed that the younger an artist attains stardom, the more the quality of their music declines.

Bello said, “When you start to have young artists blowing up, the quality of the music starts to reduce because they don’t have quality experiences.

“They don’t know how to live yet. Young people don’t yet know how to live, they just know that they are living. They want to live large, so that’s what they’re going to sing about.

“If you listen to an African China, where he’s coming from, he has seen things. Timaya, Fela—all have experiences. Their songs are expressions of reality. We should not blame these young artists; you can only give what you have.”

Source: dailypost.com

World Athletics calls for better treatment for female African athletes

World Athletics has called on African athletics federations to do more to protect female African athletes following the death of Ugandan long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei on Thursday.

The 33-year-old athlete died three days after she was admitted to hospital in Eldoret, Kenya after suffering over 75 per cent burns allegedly caused by her former boyfriend who was said to have doused her with petrol and set her alight.

The suspect remains in hospital after sustaining severe burns himself, according to the police.

World Athletics, the UN and the International Olympic Committee have all condemned the “violent murder”.

The President of World Athletics, Sebastian Coe, said: “I have been in touch with our Council members in Africa to see how we can help not only in our capacity as governing body of the sport Rebecca competed in, but to assess how our safeguarding policies might be enhanced to include abuse outside of the sport, and bringing together stakeholders from all areas of athletics to combine forces to protect our female athletes to the best of our abilities from abuse of all kinds.”

He said of Ms Cheptegei: “Our sport has lost a talented athlete in the most tragic and unthinkable circumstances.

“Rebecca was an incredibly versatile runner who still had lots left to give on the roads, mountains and cross-country trails.”

On Friday, the Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, announced that the city would honour Ms Cheptegei by dedicating a sports venue to her memory.

She had finished 44th in the women’s marathon in the French capital four weeks ago when she made her Olympic Games debut in the event.

Ms Cheptegei finished 14th at last year’s World Athletics Championships in Budapest.

Ms Hidalgo said: “She dazzled us here in Paris. We saw her. Her beauty, her strength, her freedom, and it was in all likelihood her beauty, strength and freedom which were intolerable for the person who committed this murder.

“Paris will not forget her. We’ll dedicate a sports venue to her so that her memory and her story remains among us and helps carry the message of equality, which is a message carried by the Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Over the past 15 years, Ms Cheptegei had represented Uganda at major championships on the track, roads, cross country and mountains.

After making her marathon debut in 2021, she set a Ugandan record of 2:22:47 in 2022 in what was just her fourth race at the distance.

Her most notable achievement was her victory in the up and downhill race at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in 2022 in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

She finished just outside of the medals in the half marathon at the African Games earlier this year.

Ms Cheptegei, a mother of two, is the latest victim of domestic violence among athletes in Kenya.

In 2021, former 10km Kenyan world record holder, 25-year-old Agnes Tirop, suffered fatal stab wounds in Iten just 10 days after racing in Switzerland.

Barely a year later, another Kenyan road runner, Damaris Mutua, 28, was strangled to death in the same town, which is regarded as the perfect place for training by long-distance runners.

For many activists, the call by World Athletics for better safeguarding policies to ensure that women athletes in Africa do not continue to become victims of their boyfriends or husbands is seen as a step in the right action.

EC rejects NDC’s request for forensic audit of voters register

The Electoral Commission (EC) has rejected the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) request for a forensic audit of the voters’ register.

The denial was disclosed by Dr. Omane Boamah, the Director of Elections for the NDC, following an emergency meeting with the EC in Accra on Friday.

The meeting was convened by the NDC after the party identified what it described as widespread discrepancies in the register during the recent exhibition exercise.

In a statement to journalists, Dr. Boamah commented, “We believe that the same entity that created the problem should not be the one to resolve it. This is why we have referral systems in the healthcare sector.”

“The EC must agree if the EC has nothing to hide and we don’t want to believe they have anything to hide. The EC must agree to an independent body to audit this. It has happened before. And let me speak on authority that the UNDP is ready and willing to provide the support only if the electoral commission will write to request for this support.”

“This is not the first time I have suggested this at IPAC,  about two months ago, I suggested this, and the electoral commission will not budge. Look, development partners are interested in chipping in here and there for such an audit to take place.

“It is obvious, abundantly obvious, that the NDC has the capacity to assist. And we are saying that you can bring experts from the various political parties.”

“…They have not accepted the independent forensic audit, expectedly. It’s not all doctors who readily refer. It’s not all workers who readily when issues are above them, refer. Some of them wait until bridges collapse. Some of them wait until patients are even on the verge of dying before they push them.

“You would have loved that the electoral commission accepted this. Unfortunately, the Electoral Commission did not. However, it doesn’t take away the fact that a forensic audit is what it will take to assure Ghanaians because we have listed these problems,” stated.

Bawumia, Mahama to file nomination forms tomorrow

The Vice-President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the opposition leader and flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Former President John Dramani Mahama will file their nomination forms for the upcoming presidential elections tomorrow, Monday, September 9, 2024.

The Electoral Commission (EC) will be receiving nomination forms from presidential aspirants from Monday, September 9 to Friday September 13, 2024.

The nomination forms will be accepted between 0900 hours and 1200 hours, and again from 1400 hours to 1700 hours each day during the nomination period.

More than 30 presidential aspirants, including independent candidates picked nomination forms to contest the presidential elections.

The Ghana News Agency has gathered that Dr Bawumia together with his Running Mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Party’s National Chairman and General Secretary, the Majority Leader in Parliament, and a few NPP leaders will file the nomination forms at about 0900 hours on Monday.

Former President Mahama and his Running Mate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, are expected to file their nomination forms at about 1400 hours.

Madam Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the spokesperson for the Mahama campaign, said the event was very significant to the campaign, focusing on inclusivity and economic recovery.

“This is a momentous occasion for the NDC as we gear up to build the Ghana we want together. Our campaign focuses on jobs, accountability, development, and a better future for all Ghanaians,” she said.

Dr Bawumia is expected to address Party sympathisers and the public after filing his nomination at the Party’s headquarters Monday morning, Justin Kodua Frimpong, General Secretary, NPP, said in a statement.

“Members of the Party and the general public are invited to be part of this historic moment of Possibility in Ghana’s Next Chapter,” the statement added.

The Electoral Commission opened nomination forms for both presidential and parliamentary aspirants on August 2, 2024.

The filing fee for presidential candidates is set at GH¢100,000, with a reduced fee of GH¢75,000 for female candidates and persons with disabilities.

Eligible Ghanaian voters will go to the polls to elect the President and Members of Parliament on December 7, 2024.

Source: GNA

NPP presidential ticket capable of helping Ghana – Okatakyie Prof Amanfi VII

Okatakyie Prof Amanfi VII, the Paramount Chief of the Asebu Traditional Area in the Central Region has commended the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for presenting two competent pair of hands in Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh as the party’s 2024 presidential ticket describing the ticket as an ideal ticket for Ghana.

According to the Chief, who is also a lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), both Dr Bawumia and Dr Prempeh are hardworking and results-oriented leaders with great passion for the development of this country.

He expressed full confidence in the NPP presidential ticket to deliver the public good.

“We pray that God protects them and their work, granting them peace. In the remaining three months before the election, we hope for good news, and I believe it will happen.

“As for Napo, he has done a lot for Ghana, and now that he is the Vice President, we pray he will fully support Dr Bawumia in this election. Their efforts will help Ghana stay strong.

Looking at what they have done for the country, shows they are capable of helping even more.

“We thank God for bringing them together, and I believe, in the end, people will see the good work they have done for the country,” he said. “The entire NPP government should support these two so they can accomplish even more.”

He emphasised the need to allow the Electoral Commission (EC) to carry out its duties independently, as this will benefit the country. “When we constantly criticize the EC, it creates unnecessary pressure. We should let them do their job because they know what they’re doing. I’m not pointing fingers at any political party, but we must all give them the space to fulfil their responsibilities effectively, ”he added.

The Paramount Chief was speaking at his palace on Friday, September 6, 2024, during a courtesy call on him and his elders by the Vice Presidential Candidate of the NPP, Hon. Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, who is on a campaign tour in the Central Region.

Accompanied by Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Hon Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Chairman Danquah Smith Buttey, Hon. Egyapa Mercer and Henry Nana Boakye, the NPP Vice Presidential Candidate visited the Assin North Constituency, Assin Central Constituency and the Abura Asebu Kwamankese Constituency.

While touching on the projects and programmes undertaken by the NPP particularly infrastructure projects and the Free SHS, Napo assured the chiefs and people of these constituencies that the next NPP government under Dr Bawumia would see to the continuation and completion of all such interventions.

He also rallied support for the Presidential Candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and the various parliamentary candidates of the party comprising Charles Opoku for Assin North, Godfred Nti Anawu for Assin Central, and Kobin Eric Nyanteh for the Asebu Kwamankese Constituency.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Embrace peace, reject divisive rhetoric – Bawumia

The Vice President and Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has called on Ghanaians to participate in the upcoming 2024 December polls actively.

Delivering a speech at the Oguaa Fetu Afahye, Dr Bawumia took the opportunity to address the importance of the upcoming elections.

In his speech, he highlighted the role elections play as a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy, allowing citizens to exercise their right to choose their leaders and shape the nation’s future.

He emphasized that this privilege should never be taken for granted.

Dr. Bawumia urged the public to actively participate in the electoral process, noting that elections are about more than selecting leaders; they represent an opportunity for citizens to advocate for issues that matter to them, such as education, employment, healthcare, and the environment.

He encouraged everyone to take control of their future by making informed decisions at the polls.

In addition, the Vice President called for peace, tolerance, and respect during the election period, stressing the need to reject violence and divisive rhetoric.

Instead, he encouraged constructive dialogue and urged Ghanaians to celebrate their differences as a source of strength.

As the Oguaa Fetu Afahye festival brought people together, Dr. Bawumia underscored its significance, reminding attendees to cherish their heritage and work towards a prosperous Ghana.

He expressed hope that the festival would inspire a renewed commitment to the country’s people, culture, and unity.

Source: citinewsroom.com

Government launches restructuring offer for $13bn of its bonds

Ghana invited holders of roughly $13 billion of its international bonds to swap their holdings for new instruments on Thursday, more than two months after reaching a preliminary restructuring agreement with two bondholder groups.

Bondholders have until Sept. 30 to accept the offer though those who agree to do so before an early deadline on Sept. 20 will be eligible for a 1% consent fee, the government said in its “exchange offer and consent solicitation” published in a regulatory statement on the London Stock Exchange.

The gold and cocoa producer defaulted on most of its $30 billion of international debt in 2022, as the strain of the COVID pandemic, war in Ukraine and higher global interest rates tipped it into crisis.

It is overhauling its debt under the G20 Common Framework, which has seen Zambia and Chad also reach agreements.

Ethiopia is expected to be next, but the setup has been widely criticised for being slow and cumbersome.

A committee of Ghana’s international bondholders said in a statement that it supported the restructuring offer. It said it was important for Ghana to sustain economic reforms to eventually regain access to international financial markets.

A regional group representing holders of over 25% of the bonds said in a statement they too supported the offer, adding that they will “continue to invest and contribute towards creating a more dynamic economy”.

Bondholders will have the chance to swap their holdings for a so-called “disco” bond, offering an interest rate of 5% climbing to 6% after mid-2028, and with maturities across three instruments ranging between 2026-2029.

That option will come with a writedown of principal of 37%.

The second is a par bond option capped at $1.6 billion with three instruments, of which the main one will pay a coupon of 1.5% and mature in 2037 with no haircut apart from a writedown of past due interest. The offer will last for 21 days.

The agreement will see Ghana’s bondholders forego about $4.7 billion of their loans and provide cash flow relief of about $4.4 billion up until 2026 when the country’s current International Monetary Fund programme ends.

Godfred Bokpin, an economist and finance professor at the University of Ghana, said Thursday’s announcement was an important milestone in the country’s restructuring efforts.

“With this, investors now have a fair understanding of their losses and they can move on,” he told Reuters.

The new bonds will be issued on Oct. 9, the government statement said.

Holders of the Ghana 2030 international bond that was partially guaranteed by the World Bank and is also part of the restructuring would receive their guarantee payment the same day or as soon as possible thereafter.

Asantehene honoured with Honorary Doctorate at University of Cape Coast

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has been awarded an honorary doctorate degree by the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in recognition of his exceptional leadership and tireless efforts in promoting peace, unity, and development in Ghana.

The honorary degree was presented to the Asantehene by renowned businessman and Chancellor of UCC, Sir Sam Jonah, during a special ceremony held on the university campus on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

The event was part of Otumfuo’s visit to Cape Coast, coinciding with the celebration of the Oguaa Fetu Afahye festival.

The conferment ceremony was marked by a display of traditional Ghanaian culture and academic excellence.

Dignitaries from across the country gathered to witness the event, which celebrated Otumfuo’s leadership and his unwavering commitment to preserving cultural values while embracing modernity.

Receiving the honorary doctorate, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed gratitude to the University of Cape Coast and reaffirmed his dedication to education, development, and national unity.

Photos from the event, shared by the Manhyia Palace and Opemsuo Radio, captured the grandeur of the occasion as the revered King, now formally addressed as Otumfuo (Dr) Osei Tutu II, was conferred with the honour amid applause and celebration.

The Asantehene’s recognition by UCC adds to his long list of accolades, reinforcing his stature not only as a traditional ruler but also as a statesman committed to the welfare of all Ghanaians.

New cement price regulation law passed

The Legislative Instrument (L.I.) seeking to regulate the prices of cement has been passed into law, despite opposition from cement manufacturers and sections of the public.

The initial draft of the L.I. included a provision requiring manufacturers to obtain government approval before setting prices, but this provision has been removed.

The Minority in Parliament voiced strong opposition to the proposed Legislative Instrument (LI) aimed at regulating cement pricing in Ghana.

This L.I., sponsored by Trade and Industry Minister, K.T. Hammond, has faced resistance from cement manufacturers who urged Parliament not to approve it.

Minority Spokesperson on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Bernard Ahiafor, stated that the regulation contradicts the parent act, which covers standards for all goods and services.

“The parent act by its objects deals with all goods and services, that is setting the standard for all goods and services including the cement, and the understanding of the standard is controlling the quality of all goods and services produced and imported in the country.”

Despite these objections, the LI has been enacted after 21 parliamentary sittings. K.T Hammond says the LI will lead to a reduction in cement prices across Ghana.

“I have consistently been arguing that we are not being treated fairly by the cement producing companies. I have gone through a lot of literature, I am beyond argument. There is a certain amount of unfairness in the pricing of cement across the country and I am prepared to make sure that there is some sanity,” he said.

Source: myjoyonline.com

EC declines NDC’s request for live broadcast of meeting on voters register

The Electoral Commission (EC) has declined a request by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for a live broadcast of a meeting to discuss findings and observations contained in the Provisional Voters Register (PVR) for the upcoming December 7 general elections.

NDC wrote to the EC demanding that the meeting to discuss the issues identified in the provisional voters register be broadcast live to ensure transparency.

But the EC in its response to the NDC’s request, said the discrepancies the party is raising are not new and therefore there is no need for a live broadcast of the meeting.

The EC further assured that it is committed to “free, fair, transparent, peaceful, and credible Elections. However, the Commission does not accept the proposal of a live broadcast of this meeting. Our team is ready to meet with your team on the agreed time.”

 

Olympic athlete Cheptegei dies days after being set alight by ex-boyfriend

Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died days after being doused in petrol and set on fire by a former boyfriend.

The 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner, who competed in the recent Paris Olympics, had suffered extensive burns after Sunday’s attack.

The authorities in north-west Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained, said she was targeted after returning home from church.

A report filed by a local administrator alleged the athlete and her ex-partner had been wrangling over a piece of land. Police say an investigation is under way.

There are concerns about the increasing cases of violence against female athletes in Kenya, several of whom have been killed in recent years.

Speaking to journalists outside the hospital where she had been treated, her father, Joseph Cheptegei, said that he had lost a daughter who was “very supportive” and asked the Kenyan government to ensure justice is done.

Dr Owen Menach, the head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, told local media that the athlete had died after all her organs failed.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence.

As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace,” Uganda’s athletics federation said in a post on X.

Dr Owen Menach, the head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where she had been admitted, told local media that the athlete had died after all her organs failed.

Cheptegei’s former boyfriend was also admitted to the hospital – but with less severe burns. He is still in intensive care but his condition was “improving and stable”, Dr Menach said.

“The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her,” local police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom was quoted by local media as saying.
Uganda Atheltics Federation Rebecca Cheptegei Uganda Atheltics Federation
Cheptegei won the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand in 2022

Ms Cheptegei, from a region just across the border in Uganda, is said to have bought a piece of land in Trans Nzoia county and built a house, to be near Kenya’s many athletic training centres.

“This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure,” the head of Uganda’s Olympic committee Donald Rukare said on X.

Talking to reporters, earlier in the week her father, Joseph Cheptegei, said that he prayed “for justice for my daughter”, adding that he had never seen such an inhumane act in his life.

Cheptegei finished 44th in the marathon at the recent Paris Olympics. She also won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 2022.

Her death comes two years after the killings of fellow East African athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, with their partners identified as the main suspects in both cases by the authorities.

Tirop’s husband is currently facing murder charges, which he denies, while a hunt for Mutua’s boyfriend continues.

 

Source: BBC

EC won’t bloat voters register for any party’s advantage – Dr Bossman Asare

The Electoral Commission (EC) has rejected allegations that it is manipulating the voter register to benefit a particular political party.

This follows the National Democratic Congress (NDC) alleging that the EC has bloated the provisional voter’s register of the Ho Central Constituency in the Volta Region with over 4,000 names.

The Ho Central NDC IT and Election Director, Dr Collins Nunyonameh, explained that the alleged illegal act was committed under the guise of transferring votes.

The Deputy Chairman of EC in charge of Corporate Services, Dr Bossman Asare, addressed these claims, stating that they are baseless and should be disregarded by the public.

“The EC has no intention of bloating the register to give any political party an advantage over the other,” he stated.

In a press briefing held on Monday, September 2, he clarified that “the inclusion of cumulative transfer data from 2020, 2023, and 2024 in the registers provided to political parties was an inadvertent mistake.”

He assured that the issue has been corrected, and a revised register will be made available to the political parties once all necessary adjustments are completed.

According to him, Ghana’s electoral process is one of the most transparent and inclusive on the continent, with all procedures—from voter registration to the declaration of results—being open to scrutiny by political parties and citizens alike.

Dr. Asare dismissed suggestions that the success and peace of the upcoming 2024 elections rest solely on the EC Chairperson, urging the public to ignore such statements, even if made by prominent individuals.

Source: myjoyonline.com

FDA cautions public against consuming contaminated palm oil with Sudan dye

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has cautioned consumers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing palm oil due to ongoing concerns about adulteration.

This warning comes in light of the FDA’s continued efforts to combat the presence of hazardous substances, specifically the notorious ‘Sudan Four’ dye, which has been detected in some palm oil products circulating on the market.

The presence of this industrial dye, which is banned for use in food products due to its carcinogenic properties, poses a serious health risk to consumers.

Speaking to Accra-based Citi News, Roderick Daddey-Adjei, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, expressed deep concern over the persistence of this issue, despite the Authority’s rigorous enforcement actions.

He acknowledged the progress made in reducing the prevalence of adulterated palm oil but emphasised that even a small percentage of contamination remains unacceptable.

“But we are still not happy about that small percentage that is there, which means that people who perpetrated the activity are still lurking in the dark. And we also want to also let those who think that they can come back and keep on doing this, that their days are numbered. Because already with this one that we even did, we did some arrests, we have handed them over to the police.”

Source: citinewsroom.com

ECG begins mass replacement of obsolete meters

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has launched a significant initiative to replace outdated and malfunctioning electricity meters across the Accra East region with advanced Smart MMS-compliant prepaid meters.

This exercise, which is part of the company’s broader effort to upgrade its metering system and assure revenue collection, will run from September 2 to September 30, 2024, covering key operational districts- Makola, Teshie, Legon, Roman Ridge, Kwabenya, Mampong, Dodowa, and Adentan, and targets the replacement of 250,000 smart prepaid meters.

In an interview with Accra-based JoyNews, the ECG’s Director of Communications, William Boateng, disclosed that the replacement exercise, which is mandatory and sanctioned by the Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission (PURC), aims to enhance service delivery, improve customer satisfaction, and address the ongoing challenges associated with obsolete meters, including their failure to record accurate electricity consumption.

The move to replace outdated meters comes in the wake of a significant revenue collection shortfall reported by the ECG. According to Boateng, the company has encountered a revenue gap of over GHC893 million, primarily due to the malfunctioning of old meters that failed to communicate correctly with the company’s servers.

This shortfall occurred over July and August 2024, as ECG faced challenges in accurately recording customer consumption due to the outdated metering systems.

Boateng explained that the revenue gap is expected to be recovered gradually as customers begin to repay their outstanding debts in installments.

“These are meters that have run their due course. They were not working accurately and needed to be replaced. Once the replacement was completed, we expect the situation to stabilise, thereby improving the company’s revenue fortunes,” Mr Boateng stated.

The new Smart MMS-compliant prepaid meters represent a significant upgrade over the old system. These meters are designed to be more reliable and efficient, offering customers the ability to remotely top up their credits using the ECG Power App or through a short code (*226#), providing convenience and flexibility in managing electricity consumption.

A key feature of the new smart meters is their compliance with the Meter Management System (MMS) standards, ensuring that they meet the necessary protocols for secure data management and communication between the meter and the utility provider.

This upgrade is a component of the ECG’s Loss Reduction Project (LRP), which seeks to reduce technical and commercial losses and improve overall operational efficiency.

To facilitate a smooth transition, the ECG has assured customers that any outstanding credit balances on their old meters will be transferred to the new smart prepaid meters.

Mr William Boateng emphasised that the meter replacement is entirely free of charge and cautioned customers against paying any money to individuals conducting the replacement.

He also urged customers to allow ECG officers access to their premises for the replacement process, noting that all personnel will be properly identified with official identification cards or letters from the company.

Despite the initial revenue shortfall, Boateng expressed confidence that the new system would ultimately lead to better financial performance for the ECG.

He also highlighted the company’s commitment to addressing any customer concerns related to the transition and urged patience as the ECG works to reconcile and transfer existing credit balances to the new meters.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Newmont contributes GHC3.176bn in taxes to Ghana in first half of 2024

Newmont Corporation, the world’s leading gold business and Ghana’s leading gold producer continues to make substantial financial contributions to the economy through its tax payments. In the first half of 2024 alone, Newmont’s operations in Ghana, which include the Ahafo and Akyem mines, paid over GHS 3.176 billion in taxes, royalties, levies, carried interest and property rates to the Government of Ghana.

These payments were directed to the Ghana Revenue Authority, Forestry Commission, Ministry of Finance, and various District Assemblies where the company operates. This significant contribution underscores Newmont’s commitment to fulfilling its fiscal obligations and supporting the country’s economic development.

A recent release from the company provided breakdown of the different components of the fiscal payments. These included GHS 1.727 billion in corporate tax, GHS 625 million in mineral royalties, and GHS 364 million in carried interest payments. The others were pay as you earn (PAYE) tax contributions which stood at GHS 253 million, withholding tax payments totaling GHS 180 million, GHS 22 million of forestry levy payment for the Akyem mine operations and property rates of GHS 5 million paid to the district assemblies in Asutifi North and the Birim North.

Through the transparent and responsible payment of taxes, Newmont emphasizes its dedication to regulatory compliance and good corporate governance. The organization attributes these achievements to the hard work and commitment of its employees as well as to the systems in place to ensure operational excellence.

Newmont’s contributions extend beyond tax payments. The company invests in various social and community development initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of host communities and promoting sustainable development. Through the development foundations in both Ahafo and Akyem, Newmont is transforming communities by creating shared value in education, healthcare, social infrastructure, and environmental conservation.

Newmont’s consistent and substantial fiscal payments highlight the crucial role of the mining sector in Ghana’s economy. In the whole of 2023, Newmont’s operations in Ghana contributed a total of GHS 3.965 billion in fiscal payments. This remarkable growth reflects the substantial economic impact of Newmont’s safe and responsible mining operations on both local communities and the broader Ghanaian economy.

As a key player in the mining industry, Newmont continues to set a benchmark for corporate governance, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. The company’s ongoing commitment to responsible mining practices and its significant financial contributions underscore its role as a responsible corporate citizen in Ghana.

Source: Newmont Communications

 

Bawumia pledges to empower youth through massive investment in YEA

Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has pledged to prioritise the welfare of the youth as his central focus by generating adequate investment in the Youth Employment Agency, if elected president.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of 10,000 trained artisans under the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) Skilled Trained Programme at Valley View University at Techiman in the Bono Region, he reiterated his commitment to assisting young people in any way he could to combat the threat of unemployment.

The presidential candidate of the NPP said, “God willing, when I become president, I will fully support the YEA a lot more with massive investment… because they need to expand their initiatives to benefit many more youth who can work for the government.”

The Vice-President also revealed that the Government had spent over Ghc6 billion on vocational and technical training education for the past seven years.

“Aside from Free SHS, we have also made Vocational and Technical education free, which also forms part of entrepreneurial training for the youth. We have invested Ghc6 billion over the last seven years in vocational and technical education,” he said.

GHartisan APP

As part of the incentives provided for the beneficiaries, the YEA will be launching the GHartisan app. This is an innovative online platform where the profiles of all trained artisans will be listed and connected to customers across the country.

“Next month, the YEA will be launching an app called GHartisan app. I look forward to seeing the operation of this app because I believe it will really be of great benefit to you all (trainees).” Dr. Bawumia said.

Kofi Agyepong urges gov’t to prioritise YEA-trained artisans for Agenda 111 projects

The CEO of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Kofi Baah Agyepong, has urged the government to employ YEA-trained and certified artisans in the Agenda 111 Priority Health Infrastructure Project.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony for the YEA Skills Training Programme in Techiman, Bono East Region, Agyepong emphasised the readiness of these artisans to contribute to Ghana’s development.

The Agenda 111 project, which aims to construct 111 hospitals across the nation, is a key part of President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access in every district and region.

Agyepong appealed to the government to prioritise the inclusion of these newly trained professionals in the project, highlighting the importance of utilising local talent.

“These skilled professionals are ready to contribute to the nation’s growth; we plead with government to immediately rope in these artisans onto all Agenda 111 projects,” he said.

“Let these young men and women be part of the hands that build their nation,” he added.

He also called for a policy ensuring that YEA-trained artisans are given priority in all government projects at the district level, urging the government to fully harness the skills of local workers.

“We are also pleading with government to institute a policy that ensures that all government projects in the district prioritise YEA-trained and certified artisans. We have to make good use of what we have,” he said.

Group petitions OSP to probe $245m expenditure for All African Games

Kwame Owusu Danso, Convener of the Forum for Accountable Governance, has officially petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to launch a comprehensive investigation into alleged corruption surrounding the 13th All African Games.

The group wants the OSP to thoroughly examine the $245 million expenditure associated with the games, held from March 4 to March 23, 2024.

They have expressed serious concerns regarding a lack of transparency, accountability, and value for money, along with potential breaches in procurement, conflicts of interest, and other forms of corruption in the allocation of funds.

After submitting the petition, Mr. Danso voiced confidence in the OSP’s ability to carry out an impartial and thorough investigation into the matters raised.

“To the extent that I told you I have so much confidence in the Office of the Special Prosecutor, we’re all law-abiding citizens and so, if investigations are conducted and properly so done and the outcome is that there are no corruption-related matters inherent in the organisation of the All African Games.

“I think the matter would have been brought to bed. And so, I would not further query or ask questions about it. At least, my conscience will be satisfied that I have done the Lord’s duty for the good people of this country.”

On Monday, August 19, the Director-General of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), Prof. Amin Alhassan, refuted claims made by the Sports Ministry that GBC received over $3 million for its coverage of the recently concluded 13th African Games.

During a Public Accounts Committee session on Monday, August 19, Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif stated that the state broadcaster had been paid more than $3 million.

This statement was made in response to concerns raised by Committee member Sam George regarding unpaid debts to the technical staff who worked on the games.

However, speaking on GBC, Prof. Alhassan denied these claims, clarifying that the broadcaster received only $105,000, which was intended as support for GBC’s decision to dedicate an entire channel to the African Games, thereby suspending normal programming on GTV Sports Plus.

Aid struggles to reach survivors as Sudan dam collapse, floods wreak havoc

Emergency responders were scrambling on Tuesday to find out how many people remain missing after waters burst through a dam in eastern Sudan, resulting in the worst in a series of floods that have devastated a country already torn by 500 days of war.

The collapse of the Arbaat Dam on Sunday killed 30 people and likely dozens more, in the latest in a series of inundations around the country as this year’s rainy season hits heavier, and in places earlier, than in past years.

War-shattered Sudan is already suffering from the world’s largest hunger and displacement crises, and the flooding has impeded aid delivery already disrupted by the conflict between the army and its rival, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

“Even before the dam burst people were trapped by the flooding and couldn’t get anything from Port Sudan. The aid coming in now can’t get to the people,” said Mohamed Othman, a leader from one of the flooded villages.

“Children are hungry and the roads are closed.”

A single excavator carried people and food across the water in Arbaat.

Some 118,000 people have been displaced nationwide and more than 300,000 affected across the country, as the floods destroy homes and spread diseases including cholera.

“We don’t know how many are unaccounted for (in Arbaat). It’s very difficult to get information out from there,” said U.N. OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke.

In the Darfur region, the flooding has blocked food deliveries, including the first shipment of supplies from the World Food Programme to famine-threatened Kreinik since the re-opening of the Adre border crossing to humanitarians.

The bridge leading to the town, where thousands of displaced people are sheltering with little food, was destroyed in the rains, said one local volunteer.

WFP on Sunday said that the first shipments since mid-July had made it through the al-Tina border crossing into North Darfur, having been blocked by flooding there.

In Tokar, also in Red Sea state, at least 500 households were displaced as of Sunday, as people wade through rivers in between damaged homes.

Overnight, heavy rains hit several parts of Northern Sudan, with images on social media showing collapsed roofs and flooded neighbourhoods, though little official information was immediately available on losses there.

Source: reuters.com

UN agencies concerned by Mpox spread in Congo’s refugee camps

U.N. agencies on Tuesday raised the alarm about the spread of mpox in Democratic Republic of Congo’s refugee camps where people are more susceptible to infection because of depleted immune systems and cramped living conditions.

More than 7 million people are uprooted across Congo which has one of the highest displacement levels in the world, including those fleeing internal conflicts and disasters and those arriving from Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan.

The U.N. refugee agency, UNHCR, said that some 42 suspected mpox cases have so far been reported in refugee camps and transit centres in South Kivu, eastern Congo where there are nearly 2 million internally displaced people and refugees.

“For those fleeing violence, implementing many of the mpox measures is a tremendous challenge,” said Dr. Allen Maina, Public Health Chief for UNHCR. “They have no space to isolate when they develop symptoms of the disease,” he added, saying that infected individuals were opting to distance themselves from crowded shelters to sleep in the open to protect others.

Congo has had more than 18,000 suspected mpox cases and 615 deaths this year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), which declared an mpox health emergency this month after a new variant called clade Ib emerged.

Mpox, which causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, is sexually transmitted but can also spread through close contact with an infected person.

While it is not clear yet if they are the new, seemingly more contagious clade Ib strain, WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris said South Kivu is an area where this variant was mostly circulating.

“(People) are already very stressed, hungry, terrified, displaced. So there’s an immunological deficit, an immunological weakness which makes them more likely to become ill with anything they get, including mpox,” she said at the same press briefing. An unknown number of mpox cases, including among children, have also emerged in North Kivu displacement camps.

Asked whether Congo’s camps could become incubators for a broader spread of the disease, Maina said the focus should be on disease prevention and improving camp conditions.

Starmer signals pain and ‘unpopular decisions’ to fix Britain

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Tuesday he would have to take unpopular decisions, raising the possibility of “painful” taxes on the wealthy and spending cuts to try to fix Britain‘s myriad of problems he blamed on Conservative misrule.
In a speech in the rose garden of his Downing Street office, the scene of COVID parties under a former Conservative government, Starmer promised to end politics as usual, telling voters he was levelling with them that Britain’s problems would only get worse before getting better.
Elected in a landslide victory in July, Starmer has vowed to rebuild British society, saying this month’s anti-migrant riots reflected divisions that have taken hold, stoked by what he described as the Conservatives’ preference for populism.

He also blamed the last government for leaving him with a 22 billion pound ($29 billion) black hole, something he said was unexpected and which had forced him to take some difficult decisions such as limiting fuel payments to the elderly.

The opposition Conservative Party accuses Starmer’s Labour Party of portraying the fiscal situation as much worse than it is so it can hike taxes after campaigning before the election on an agenda not to raise certain taxes on working people.

Starmer said he planned to stick to that pledge, but there would be short term pain in what he said would be “unpopular decisions” for the long term good.

“There is a budget coming in October, and it’s going to be painful. We have no other choice … Those with the broader shoulders should bear the heavier burden,” he said in a speech to voters he met during the election campaign, referring to a fiscal statement due on Oct. 30.

“We have inherited not just an economic black hole but a societal black hole and that is why we have to take action and do things differently. Part of that is being honest with people about the choices we face and how tough this will be,” he said.

“Frankly, things will get worse before we get better,” he told the audience of apprentices, teachers, nurses, small business owners and firefighters.

The rose garden last made headlines after it was used by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his staff to hold parties during the COVID lockdowns, events that Starmer said had shattered the trust between the public and its politicians.

GFA cuts sod for construction of 40-bed accommodation facility at Prampram

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, on August 26, 2024, cut the sod for the construction of a 40-bed accommodation facility at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.

The President was supported by members of the Executive Council, delegates to Congress, former GFA top officials including former Vice-Chairman Fred Pappoe, former General Secretary, Emmanuel Gyimah, and the media to perform the ceremony at the new-look Technical Centre.

The construction of the 40-bed accommodation facility marks a significant and pivotal step towards upgrading the centre to meet international standards.

The construction of the new edifice is part of a grand plan by the leadership of the Ghana Football Association to give the Technical Centre a befitting status in the scheme of African and World football.

Funded in part by the World Cup 2022 allocation from government, the project aims to elevate the centre’s infrastructure to accommodate various national teams and host matches.

President Simeon-Okraku applauded Government for the support as he cut the sod for the start of the legacy project, which is expected to be delivered in accordance with very high standards and specifications.

“I am very excited to see today and celebrate the decision to construct a 40-bed accommodation facility here in Prampram. I want to use this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Executive Council and members of Congress for their support for such a major project for the forward march of our game,” he said.

“I am equally grateful to the Government for showing leadership in offering financial support in ensuring the realization of this fantastic project. The project includes many basic amenities to create a professional environment that will directly serve the national teams and contribute to the growth of Ghana football.”

“The effect of what I spoke about is what is manifesting and I hope that when we gather here again, we’ll be happy to inspect a fully constructed 40-bed accommodation facility.” he concluded, amidst applause.

The installation of floodlights at the AstroTurf and the construction of top of range natural grass pitches, as well as the construction of a gymnasium, swimming pool and Futsal Arena are additional components of the comprehensive upgrade of the facility.”

These enhancements signify the GFA’s commitment to bolstering football infrastructure and providing adequate facilities for training and development.

Since its inception, the Ghanaman Soccer Center of Excellence has served as a key training and camping base for several of Ghana’s national teams.

With these planned improvements, the centre is poised to further solidify its role in nurturing and developing football talent while facilitating the growth of the sport at the national level.

Man Utd agree £42m deal to sign Ugarte from PSG

Manchester United have agreed a  €50m (£42.29m) fee with Paris St-Germain for Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

The deal also includes a potential for 10m euros (£8.46m) in additional payments. It is possible Ugarte could fly to Manchester for a medical later on Tuesday.

The move comes at the same time as midfielder Scott McTominay’s proposed  €30m (£25.37m) switch to Napoli.

Ugarte has been linked with United throughout the summer and is now poised to sign for the Old Trafford club, just one year after joining PSG from Sporting Lisbon for a reported 60m euros.

The 23-year-old made 37 appearances for Luis Enrique’s side, including 25 in the league as PSG won their 12th Ligue 1 title.

It is understood PSG have also negotiated a 10% sell-on clause for Ugarte, with both clubs privately claiming they are happy with the deal.

The Ugarte deal is contingent on McTominay completing his switch to Napoli, although there is confidence at Old Trafford that transfer will be done. McTominay is due to travel to Italy on Tuesday for a medical.

United sources accept the structure of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations incentivise selling home-grown players.

Manager Erik ten Hag could not guarantee McTominay a regular start and United first accepted offers for the 27-year-old 12 months ago.

Despite that the Scotland midfielder, who first attended a United soccer school when he was five, ended up making 32 Premier League appearances and scoring seven goals for United last season.

He also started the FA Cup final victory against Manchester City.

United sources say they identified Ugarte early in the transfer window and were patient in their negotiations over a player who made the Copa America team of the tournament squad following Uruguay’s run to the final, where they were eventually beaten by Argentina.

Should the transfer go through as expected, Ugarte will become United’s fifth signing of the summer and take their overall spending to in excess of £190m.

United have spent nearly £600m on new players since Ten Hag was appointed in 2022.

Source: BBC