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• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 27, 2024
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• 3 minutes Read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: myjoyonline.com

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 27, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 2 minutes Read

Herbert Krapa: 50% of Ghanaians to adopt LPG for cooking by 2030

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: citinewsroom.com

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 27, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 4 minutes Read

Alan vows to review constitution to reduce presidential powers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: GNA

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 27, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 1 minute Read

Police establish GHC20,000 informant system ahead of December polls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: citinewsroom.com

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 27, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 3 minutes Read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: citinewsroom.com

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 27, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 3 minutes Read

Bawumia is Ghana’s good, faithful servant- Ahiagbah

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 27, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 4 minutes Read

Bawumia launches electric buses

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 20, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 2 minutes Read

GRA intercepts 40-foot container of ammunition at Tema Port

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: citinewsroom.com

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 20, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 4 minutes Read

BoG new headquarters commissioned

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
• November 20, 2024
• 0 Comments
• 3 minutes Read

President swears in five new envoys

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: GNA