Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez expressed his admiration for Napoli’s defensive midfielder Stanislav Lobotka, stating his desire to see the Slovakian international join Barcelona.
Speaking at a press conference prior to Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League match against Napoli, Xavi responded to an Italian journalist’s question about which Napoli player he would prefer to have at Barcelona.
“If I had to say one, it would be Lobotka,” he said. “I like how he builds his game, never missing a single ball. I would like to see him at a club like Barcelona. In my opinion, he could make a difference here the same way he has for Napoli.”
Lobotka, aged 29, made the move to Napoli in 2019 from LaLiga outfit Celta Vigo for a transfer fee of €21 million ($22.9 million).
He has been a regular starter in all 28 of Napoli’s Serie A matches this season, as well as featuring in their seven UEFA Champions League games.
Additionally, Lobotka played in every match during Napoli’s successful 2022-23 league campaign and started in all 10 of their Champions League fixtures.
Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) has taken action against 62 players ahead of its upcoming domestic season playoffs, banning them due to allegations of age cheating.
Among those barred from participation is Wilfred Nathan Douala, who gained attention as the youngest participant in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Doubts surrounding his age, listed as 17 years old, led to suspicions of age falsification, prompting scrutiny from social media users who noted that he appeared older than his documented age.
🚨 OFFICIAL: The Cameroonian Federation has suspended 62 players for age fraud, including Wilfried Nathan Douala, Victoria United midfielder who was selected at the last AFCON and claims to be 17-years old! 😱
Reports from BSN Sport confirm that Douala, the youngest participant at the AFCON, has been excluded from Cameroon’s top-tier league this season, joining 62 other players. They were barred due to concerns about “irregularities in identification and ages.”
This incident mirrors previous events in Cameroon.
In January 2023, FECAFOOT suspended 21 players out of 30 selected for the U17 AFCON due to suspected age falsification.
This decision came after MRI tests were conducted to accurately assess bone development and verify players’ ages.
FECAFOOT attributed these measures to President Samuel Eto’o’s directives, expressing worries about the reputational damage caused by age fraud in football.
This was reported by SoFoot.
“This action stems from strict instructions provided by the president of FECAFOOT, acting under the mandate from COMEX, to eradicate the manipulation of civil status that has previously tarnished the reputation of the umbrella body of Cameroonian football.”
Although Douala was chosen for the Cameroon squad at the recent AFCON, he did not play in any matches during the tournament.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) manager Luis Enrique has bid farewell to star player Kylian Mbappe as the Frenchman prepares to leave the club in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Mbappe’s reduced playing time under Enrique suggests that his departure from the Parc des Princes is imminent. Real Madrid is reportedly leading the race to sign the 25-year-old forward.
Mbappe failed to score in Paris Saint-Germain’s 2-2 draw with Reims on Sunday, and reflecting on the match, Enrique commented,
“I wish all the best to Kylian Mbappé for his future.
“He’s a fantastic player and even more so as a person. Ireally wish him all the best”, he told Prime Video.
The widow of the late Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. John Kumah, has disclosed that Prophet Nigel Gaisie was on her husband’s payroll.
Her husband, Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, disclosed how she cherished and respected men of God and hence used private information about her husband’s illness to make a false prophecy about the death of another deputy minister in 2024.
“My husband has a special place for pastors. He doesn’t joke with men of God. We know him very well and have been aware since November 2023 that the late John Kumah was seriously sick. My husband had a lot of respect for men of God in this country, and that included Nigel Gaisie.
He was even one of the people on his payroll. Thus, when my husband and I thought he was a genuine man of God,” she revealed during an interview withAsaaseradio on Monday, March 11, 2024.
However, Apostle Lilian Kumah shared that her family severed ties with Nigel Gaisie after learning that he had misused information they had voluntarily provided to him.
The family had informed Gaisie about the late John Kumah’s serious illness in November 2023, and despite this knowledge, Mr Gaisie went on to make the false prophecy during his watchnight service on December 31, 2023.
“We know him very well and have been aware since November 2023 that the late John Kumah was seriously sick. My husband had a lot of respect for men of God in this country, and that included Nigel Gaisie when my husband and I thought he was a genuine man of God.
Describing the previous relationship they had with Gaisie, she mentioned that they used to share meals and that Mr Gaisie used to visit her church, Disciples of Christ Ministries.
Apostle Lilian Kumah, the widow of the late John Kumah, alleges that Nigel Gaisie is not a prophet but a fake man of God, a pathological liar and a womanizer. pic.twitter.com/PnGdvWGa6a
Jadon Sancho has no intention of returning to Manchester United, holding manager Erik ten Hag responsible for his career’s stagnation, according to a report.
Sancho’s fallout with Ten Hag occurred after he was left out of United’s matchday squad, leading to a four-month exile before his loan return to Dortmund.
Although Sancho is expected back at United in the summer, he reportedly has no desire to work under Ten Hag again.
While Sancho’s focus is currently on continuing with Dortmund, the club may struggle to afford a permanent transfer due to his high wages.
Dortmund still hopes to strike another loan deal for Sancho but could consider a permanent transfer if United express interest in a swap deal.
Forward Donyell Malen is suggested as a potential player in Dortmund’s pursuit of Sancho.
Despite a slow start back in Dortmund, Sancho scored his first goal of the season in a recent match, with club officials acknowledging his ongoing fitness recovery after his time on the sidelines at United.
West Ham United manager David Moyes has praised Arsenal’s acquisition of Declan Rice, stating that the Gunners secured a bargain deal for the midfielder.
Last summer, Arsenal made Rice the most expensive British footballer in history by paying just over £100m, with an additional £5m in performance-related add-ons.
Despite the hefty price tag, Rice has seamlessly integrated into Mikel Arteta’s squad, quickly establishing himself as a key player at the Emirates Stadium.
Moyes commended Rice’s impact on both ends of the pitch, highlighting his defensive prowess and significant contributions in attack. Overall, Moyes believes that Arsenal made a wise investment in acquiring the talented midfielder.
“I always said, and I think everyone laughed, that he should be worth £150 million,” said Moyes. “I think other players have been sold for close to his price and I don’t think they’ve touched Declan’s level of performance.
“The other thing is that Declan is English, an England international, and he’s 25 now, so he’s still got another six or seven years of his best years yet to come.
“So, I think in time, maybe we’ll look back and think it could have been more. But let’s be fair; I think most people, including the media, everybody else, would have said it was a really good price for Declan at the time.”
Rice’s goal on Saturday helped move the Gunners to the top of the Premier League table,one point clear of Liverpool and two ahead of Manchester City ahead of the pair’s mammoth Super Sunday clash at Anfield.
Alexis MacAllister was adamant that his team should have been givena penalty in the dying moments of Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City.
Despite already converting a penalty earlier in the match, the Argentine believed he was fouled in the box by City’s Jeremy Doku, but neither the on-field referee nor the VAR official agreed, much to the surprise of spectators both at the stadium and watching from home.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, Mac Allister said of the decision: “I think it’s a clear penalty. I cannot say much more.
“I think the ref did a very good job throughout the game, but I think he made a mistake in the last decision.”
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was furious with the decision after the game, saying in his post-match interview: “Isn’t it [VAR] there for making the right decision?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0N5irSbefyc
This situation in all positions on the pitch is 100% a foul.And it is a yellow card. He hits the ball, but if the ball is not there, he kills him.
Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg, who now works as a referee analyst for Nottingham Forest, admitted in his column for the Daily Mail that Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty.
He wrote: “The ball bounces up. Alexis Mac Allister moves towards it. Jeremy Doku’s foot is high. He catches Mac Allister in the chest.
“Outside of the box, this would have resulted in a free-kick every day of the week. Just because it happened inside the box does not suddenly transform it into a clean challenge when Mac Allister might be left playing connect the dots on his chest on Monday morning.
“Regardless of the magnitude of the match and the fact it happened in the 98th minute, this was an incident worthy of a penalty. “
His remarks follow revelations by Ghanaian badminton player Leslie Addo, who shed light on the difficult conditions faced by athletes during the ongoing games in the country.
Ablakwa raised questions about the substantial funds allocated to the event, citing that the Ministry of Youth and Sports received a significant amount of GH¢215,558,167.32 from the Ministry of Finance.
The MP questioned the allocation of these funds, highlighting that despite Ghana’s economic challenges, taxpayers contributed over GH¢412 million, raising concerns about the issues athletes are currently facing.
“It’s really heartbreaking listening to Ghanaian athletes at the 13th African Games lament about official neglect, buying their own kits, arriving to games in buckets of rickety pick-up trucks, etc. “From my impeccable oversight tracking, Ghana’s Ministry of Youth and Sports has received a massive GH¢215,558,167.32 from the Ministry of Finance for such expenditures.
“I am also keenly monitoring outstanding PVs from single-sourced contractors amounting to a staggering GH¢196,553,919.54, which are about to be paid this week. “Our athletes do not deserve this shabby and cruel treatment when, despite Ghana’s current economic crisis, taxpayers are coughing over GH¢412 million for the very things athletes are complaining about. Where is all the money going? Ghana’s hosting of the 13th African Games is the next big scandal,” he said in a Twitter post on March 10, 2024.
In a recent interview, Leslie Addo revealed that he and his teammates had to resort to sitting in the bed of a pickup truck to reach the match venue in Borteyman.
He explained that the team had no alternative but to use their coach’s private pick-up truck. With limited space inside the vehicle, some players had to sit in the bed of the truck, putting their safety at risk.
“Today, when we were coming to play our matches, we sat in our coach’s vehicle and it was a pick-up, so most of us were in the bucket. We didn’t get any transport. We, the host nation, are playing for the country and no one is supporting us,” he lamented.
In addition to the existing complaints, Addo highlighted that despite the Ministry of Youth and Sports renting a fleet of 332 vehicles, including luxury cars and buses, for the games, the badminton team still faced transportation challenges.
They had to rely on their coach’s pickup truck, which was inadequate for their needs.
Betway, a renowned online betting and gaming brand, has introduced an enhanced jackpot feature called “Mega Picks,” putting the control in the hands of the player.
With Mega Picks, customers have the freedom to tailor their jackpot entries by selecting the football games they want from a list of preselected options.
The jackpot prize increases as more selections are added to the ticket, with the potential to win up to GHS 2,000,000. Priced at only GHS 1 per ticket, customers can choose anywhere from 12 to 17 selections.
Kwabena Oppong-Nkrumah, the Country Manager for Betway Ghana, expressed excitement about the relaunch of the Mega Picks Jackpot, emphasising its customer-centric approach and simplified format.
“Our new Mega Picks Jackpot delivers on our promise to offer way more entertainment to the Ghanaian sports betting player in what is the simplest and most frequently rewarding offer on the market currently.
“Our Jackpot Revamp gives our customers more opportunity, more control and more choice in building their very own jackpots. Always looking at ways to give our customers so much more.”
Manchester United dispatched scouts to observe Gleison Bremer, Giorgio Scalvini, and Teun Koopmeiners during Juventus’s recent 2-2 draw with Atalanta, with one player standing out, according to Tuttosport.
Koopmeiners, a 26-year-old defensive midfielder, impressed by netting two goals as Atalanta secured a draw on the road.
The Dutch international has attracted attention from several top European clubs and is expected to be a sought-after target in the upcoming transfer window.
While Juventus is also interested in Koopmeiners, Atalanta’s €60 million asking price may tilt the scale towards a move to the Premier League.
Juve values Bremer, a 26-year-old center-back, at €70 million.
Meanwhile, Atalanta’s 20-year-old defender, Giorgio Scalvini has an estimated transferfee of €40 million.
Barcelona’s chances of signing Joshua Kimmich have been dealt a blow, as Bayern Munich is set to open discussions with the 29-year-old about extending his contract, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo.
Kimmich has long been a target for Barcelona, but their financial difficulties have hindered their pursuit.
Despite this, there were rumours of a potential departure for Kimmich, especially after he voiced frustrations with Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel, and with Bayern’s season not going as expected, with the team likely to finish second in the league.
However, Bayern’s new sports manager, Max Eberl, is optimistic that the situation between Kimmich and the club will improve now that Tuchel’s departure has been confirmed at the end of the season.
Kimmich, whose contract runs until 2025, has also been linked with moves to Manchester City and Manchester United.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) is set to unveil Otto Addo as the new manager of the Black Stars on March 15, 2024, according to a report by Sport Obama TV on YouTube.
Addo, a German-based trainer, is said to have been offered a long-term contract to spearhead Ghana’s new football project.
Reports from Nhyira FM suggest that Addo emerged as the top choice among all candidates interviewed for the vacant position.
If appointed, he will succeed Chris Hughton, with whom he closely collaborated during his previous stint.
Hughton initially served as a technical advisor before assuming the head coach role after the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
BREAKING NEWS 📢
Otto Addo returns to Ghana as new Black Stars trainer.
The GFA is expected to announce Otto Addo as replacement of Chris Hughton as new coach latest March 15, 2024.
Addo’s inaugural task, should he assume the role, will be to lead the Black Stars in international friendlies against Uganda and Nigeria scheduled to take place in Morocco in March 2024.
Social media users on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, are mocking the perceived fear of poisoning within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) after a viral video surfaced.
The video captures the party’s National Organizer, Nana Boakye, and other officials rejecting bottles of water offered at a funeral ceremony.
Following the recent passing of John Kumah, Deputy Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament for the Ejisu constituency, rumours circulated suggesting that both Kumah and Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, were poisoned after an event in Tamale.
These theories, along with claims of potential assassinations targeting NPP officials due to their political aspirations, lack evidence but have heightened tension within the party.
In the viral video, Nana Boakye and Justin Kodua, the General Secretary of the NPP, are seen refusing to accept water offered to them at a funeral ceremony.
The video has sparked ridicule online, with some users questioning the officials’ alleged fear of poisoning and daring them to accept the water.
Communication Manager of Ghana Water Limited (GWL) for the Western and Central Regions, Nana Yaw Barima Barnieh, has revealed that some food vendors in the region are using water contaminated by illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, to prepare meals for the public.
As a result of the devastation done to water bodies such as the River Pra by these illegal mining activities, his outfit has reduced water production by 30%.
Nana Yaw Barima Barnieh made these revelations in a media engagement on Friday, March 8, 2024.
Speaking on the impact of the said cut in water production, Mr. Barnieh revealed that some food vendors used the polluted water to prepare food for the public, hence the urgent need to fight the menace.
“This is a wake-up call for all Ghanaians. In fact, the galamsey operations affect everybody, including the illegal miners themselves. Because of its bad quality some people are harnessing it and using it to prepare food for people to buy, which is unknown to all of us,” he stated.
Meanwhile,Ghana Water Limited (GWL) noted that the reduced water production by 30% will impact some communities within the region.
However, it is prepared to supplement its production with supplies from Bremsu Headworks.
After the dredging and desilting of the Pra River, Eric Seth Atiapah, the Chief Manager of the water distribution company, stated to reporters his readiness to launch an awareness campaign for communities residing along the riverbanks regarding the detrimental effects of illegal mining activities on their operations.
Following the passing of Deputy Finance MinisterJohn Kumah, Prophet Nigel Gaisie of Prophetic Hill Chapel has urged Inspector General of Police George Akuffo Dampare to reconsider the restriction on prophecies.
Gaisie argues that Kumah’s death should prompt law enforcement to acknowledge the significance of spiritual guidance in preventing potential harm.
During an interview on Okay FM on March 8, 2024, Gaisie disclosed that he had foreseen a looming threat involving the late minister but was constrained by the ban on prophecy from explicitly communicating it.
“Over the years, if I see something like that, I will just say it when I am preaching, but we have been advised about death prophecies, that we should try to reach out to the person.
“So, I asked one of my junior pastors, Pastor Godsway, to go to his house. He went there about three times, but unfortunately, on all those occasions, he didn’t meet him,” he explained.
He continued: “This must be a wake-up call to the IGP to allow the prophets to prophesy; this should be a wake-up call to the nation that spirituality works, life is spiritual, and God won’t do anything without revealing it to His servants.
“So, if you are a president, MP, or whoever it is, you are under the power of God, and God has selected some people as his men and women, so don’t joke with prophecy, don’t joke with dreams,” he warned.
He suggests commercialising and decentralising the anti-corruption efforts to encompass a broader range of corruption-related crimes and involve more stakeholders, thereby enhancing effectiveness.
“This would be a more sustainable way to fight these crimes across the country,” he said.
Domelevo was speaking via Zoom on the theme: Ghana’s 67th “In-Dependence Anniversary: Rescue or Disaster” Anti-Corruption Event, in Accra.
Crusaders Against Corruption (CACG) organised the event in collaboration with African Business Communication (ABC), TV XYZ, Ghana Good Governance Group (GGGG), and Spio-Garbrah Foundation (S-GF).
The discussions aimed to find more effective ways to combat corruption and foster good governance.
Domelevo stated: “We cannot develop when corruption is taking over and consuming all the resources of the country.”
The former Auditor General emphasised that Ghana’s status as a developing country 67 years post-independence was a result of factors like the absence of a clear economic transformation vision, ineffective leadership, and wasteful use of national resources.
He stressed the urgent need for national development to enhance the well-being of citizens and society, urging public officials to champion positive change by rejecting corruption and unpatriotic behaviours in favour of upholding the rule of law.
Furthermore, he urged the government to explore alternative methods of utilising the country’s abundant natural resources for development, rather than solely relying on taxation, which burdens the populace.
Bishop Dr. Samuel Mensah, a board member of (CACG), echoed these sentiments, attributing Ghana’s challenges more to a lack of critical thinking among leaders than to spiritual issues.
He highlighted the absence of a concrete long-term national vision and the lack of clear direction from political leaders as significant obstacles to progress.
To overcome these hurdles, he emphasized the necessity of implementing a comprehensive, non-partisan long-term vision for the nation’s development, similar to the approach taken by Ghana’s counterparts at independence.
Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, founder of the Spio-Garbrah Foundation, framed the discussion around whether Ghana had achieved true independence or remained dependent post-1957 on political independence.
Ghanaian badminton player Leslie Addo has revealed a startling incident where he and his teammates were forced to sit in the back of a pickup truck to reach the match venue during the2023 African Games.
Addo, part of Ghana’s men’s doubles badminton team, explained in an interview with Ghanaweb that due to the lack of transportation, they had to rely on their coach’s private pickup truck.
Unfortunately, the limited space in the vehicle meant that some players had to sit in the truck bed, putting their safety at risk.
Lamenting the woes the team has faced, Addo said, “You guys have not supported us.”
He added, “Today, when we were coming to play our matches, we sat in our coach’s vehicle and it was a pickup, so most of us were in the bucket. We didn’t get any transport. We, the host nation, are playing for the country and no one is supporting us.”
The Office of the Minister of Youth and Sports procured 332 vehicles for the 2023 African Games, consisting of 29 Landcruisers, 3 Toyota Prados, 106 saloon cars, 78 waggon cars, 55 Team Marco Polo buses, 30 Ayalolo buses, 26 minibuses, and 5 trucks.
The badminton player, speaking to JoySports, expressed frustration over the team’s neglect. He revealed that they were provided with only 36 shoes instead of the required 47.
Additionally, they were unable to train properly as they did not have access to essential equipment such as rackets, despite the government purchasing them.
“The equipment that we got didn’t come on time.Nobody has even trained with the equipment. The racket I used to play in the tournament, I got it yesterday and I never tested it. The shoe I wear is size 47 and they gave me a size 36; what am I going to use it for?,” Leslie Addo quizzed.
Black Princesses of Ghana started their 13th African Games women’s football tournament with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Ethiopia at the Cape Coast Stadium on Saturday evening.
In a match where Ghana initially struggled to dominate, they gradually matched Ethiopia’s energy as the game progressed. Despite their efforts, both teams couldn’t score in the first half, leaving the score 0-0 at halftime.
However, in the second half, the Black Princesses raised their game, with Comfort Owusu scoring the only goal in the 59th minute.
The goal came after sustained pressure from Ghana and was a well-deserved reward for their determination.
The game saw a dramatic turn in the 78th minute when Abiba Issah received a second yellow card, reducing Ghana to ten players.
Despite this setback, the Black Princesses continued to press for another goal, with Mukarama almost scoring in the 84th minute, only to hit the woodwork.
The victory, celebrated wildly by the home crowd, puts Ghana at the top of their group with three points. The Black Princesses will aim to build on this positive start in their upcoming matches.
On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, the Parliament of Ghana passed the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-LGBT+ bill.
This legislation, currently awaiting presidential approval, prohibits activities related to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) individuals and criminalises their promotion, advocacy, and financial support.
Individuals found engaging in these activities could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting and funding such acts may be sentenced to three to five years in jail.
The bill will become law within seven days if President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo grants his assent. However, if the President declines to approve the bill, Parliament can still enact it into law with a two-thirds majority vote.
“A nation whose population keeps increasing through a high birth rate, children are not getting access to educational infrastructure, yet, the most important thing to us is LGBT+ issues.
“The country has no direction so anybody can determine for us. That’s not how we build a nation; it should be able to chart its path. We are not done tackling issues on education, hospitals, bad roads, and security, yet we are discussing this useless policy [the anti-gay bill],” he said while speaking on Angel FM.
About the passage of the anti-gay bill:
On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, the Parliament of Ghana passed the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-LGBT+ bill.
This legislation, currently awaiting presidential approval, prohibits activities related to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) individuals and criminalises their promotion, advocacy, and financial support.
Individuals found engaging in these activities could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting and funding such acts may be sentenced to three to five years in jail.
The bill will become law within seven days if President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo grants his assent. However, if the President declines to approve the bill, Parliament can still enact it into law with a two-thirds majority vote.
Ghana has secured the 9th position among Africa’s top 10 safest countries for women to visit in the latest Global Women Peace and Security Index 2023.
This index, which assesses 177 countries based on criteria like women’s inclusion, justice, and security, highlights the Seychelles as Africa’s top-ranking country, with Ghana closely trailing behind.
Other countries featured in the top 10 list include Cape Verde, South Africa, Mauritius, Tunisia, Rwanda, Botswana, Tanzania, and Sao Tome and Principe.
Each of these nations is recognised for their commendable efforts in ensuring the safety and security of women.
Conversely, the report identifies the Central African Republic as the most unsafe country to visit, with additional countries like the DR Congo, South Sudan, Burundi, Eswatini, Somalia, Niger, Sudan, Chad, and Nigeria ranking poorly. This signals significant challenges concerning safety and security for women travellers.
Ghana’s inclusion in the top 10 reflects the nation’s dedication to advancing women’s rights, safety, and inclusivity. This encourages travellers to explore Ghana’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture with confidence.
Upon her arrival in the United States several years ago, Mary ‘Sparrow’ Agyapong, eager to braid her hair, faced an unexpected obstacle as she struggled to find a suitable salon.
During an exclusive interview with Doreen Abanema Abayaa in The Bronx, New York City, the 27-year-old revealed that she and her father were shocked when the braider they approached demanded $140 for the service.
She further explained that even the discounted rate they received was higher because of her Ghanaian heritage.
“When I first moved here, I went to get my hair braided and the lady was like, because we are Ghanaians, she was going to charge about $140, and my dad was surprised.
So, I asked, ‘What if we are not Ghanaians? How much was it going to be?’ and she said more than $140,” she narrated.
Without hesitation, Mary quickly instructed her father to gather the necessary tools for hair braiding, expressing her determination to take on the task herself.
From that moment on, she recounted, her journey as a braider in The Bronx began.
“So, I just told my dad, ‘Listen, just buy me the stuff; I’m going to start doing my own hair’. I started doing my own hair and started doing that of my friends; my mom joined me after some months and I started doing my mom’s hair. And now, look at me, I have my own business,” she told Doreen Abanema Abayaa.
Mary now has a strong conviction about her craft: “When I touch your hair, you’re not going anywhere else; you’re staying because the magic happens here.”
Mary also provided insights into the fulfilling nature of her work and how it has enriched her life.
“Not to brag, but [I have over 500 clients]. I work from Monday to Saturday… I work on three to four clients a day, depending on the hair. Sometimes, two, one. Like I said, it depends on the hair.
“I had an assistant who I was helping because she came from Ghana and needed support before she got into the system. So, I was helping her until she stood on her feet. So, she’s started school and it needs time so she stopped coming. I’m very fast when it comes to braiding; I braid really fast and sometimes, I let my friends help me if I have a lot of people,” she added.
Asked what the biggest trick to being successful in the business is, Mary said it requires a lot of patience.
“In this business, if you don’t have patience, you cannot deal with customers. Customers are always right; you have to know you are dealing with people.
Everybody has their attitudes, mood swings and stuff, and in the morning, people can come in with bad attitudes, but what can you do but do something to cheer them up?” she stressed.
Until she got into this business, Mary trained as an electronic engineer and hopes to be able to return to school when she has completed her building project.
Nigeria and Ghana are scheduled to clash in an international friendly on March 22 in Marrakech as both teams aim to recover from their disappointments at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has unveiled its squad for the upcoming match.
The Super Eagles, who finished as runners-up in the tournament following a heartbreaking loss to hosts Ivory Coast in the final, seek to rebound and establish momentum for future engagements.
However, the NFF has yet to appoint a new coach following the resignation of Portuguese trainer Jose Peseiro.
Meanwhile, Ghana had a dismal outing in the Africa Cup of Nations, exiting the competition in the group stage with only two points from three matches.
The Black Stars are currently without a permanent head coach, but the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is anticipated to announce a new appointment before the friendly against Nigeria.
Cape Coast Stadium experienced a power outage during a match between theGhanaian Black Princesses and the Ethiopian team on Saturday, March 9, 2024.
This disruption occurred during the ongoing All African Games, leaving the stadium without electricity for more than 20 minutes. Sports journalist Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo reported that the power outage occurred approximately 36 minutes into the match.
“The lights have gone out inside the Cape Coast Sports Stadium, 36 minutes into Ghana vs. Ethiopia. The lights are not back yet after almost 20 minutes of waiting. Waiting continues! This is unacceptable,” he posted on X.
The lights have gone out inside the Cape Coast Sports Stadium, 36 minutes into Ghana vs Ethiopia.
Lights not back yet after almost 20mins of waiting. Waiting continues! This is unacceptable.
While power was later restored for the game to continue, the journalist reported that the stadium experienced yet another power cut right before halftime, prompting the referee to end the game.
“Lights went off again on the stroke of half time, so ref just ended it with some minutes still left of additional time.
“But lights are back on again as the players emerge for the start of the second half,” he updated his followers.
The Ghanaian government invested $195 million solely in infrastructure for the games scheduled from March 8, 2024, to March 23, 2024.
Additionally, an extra $48 million was allocated for operational expenses related to the games. Despite this substantial investment, critics have voiced concerns about the inadequate organisation of the event.
Despite these criticisms, the match between theBlack Princesses and Ethiopia concluded with a 1-0 victory for the Ghanaian team.
Lights went off again on the stroke of half time, so ref just ended it with some minutes still left of additional time.
Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a warning about heightened winds, thunderstorms, and lightning as the main rainy season approaches.
Joshua Asamoah, a senior meteorologist at GMet, noted that occasional light rains may occur even when clouds are present, urging the public to find shelter in safe locations during this time.
“As we are gearing towards the main rainy season, there will be light rains even when the clouds form to pour; however, there will be more winds, thunders and lightning preceding the rains.
“So, we urge members of the public to find a safe shelter to stay in whenever it begins to rain this time, to protect themselves from the winds, thunders and lightning,” he said.
Mr. Asamoah shared these insights during an interview with the Ghana News Agency on the sidelines of a stakeholder and media training workshop focused on the VOLTALARM Early Warning System.
The VOLTALARM Early Warning System, a collaborative effort between GMet and its partners, aims to provide timely alerts about floods and droughts to residents living within the Volta basins.
This initiative forms a vital component of the Volta Flood and Drought Management (VFDM) project, which involves collaboration among Ghana and neighbouring countries bordering the Volta River to mitigate flood and drought risks around the lake.
Mr. Asamoah stressed the importance of the VOLTALARM system in enabling communities within the Volta basins to better prepare for potential floods and droughts, especially during the discharge of water from the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso.
He outlined plans to bolster capacity-building and foster collaboration among stakeholders and the media to raise awareness among communities within the basins.
These plans include establishing a platform for stakeholders, including the media and local community members, to receive regular updates on flood and drought situations.
Furthermore, Mr. Asamoah mentioned ongoing efforts to develop a Multi-Hazard Warning System for regions beyond the Volta basin, ensuring broader access to crucial information on environmental hazards.
On February 28, 2024, Parliament approved legislation criminalising LGBTQ activities and prohibiting their advocacy, promotion, and financial support.
Under this law, individuals found guilty could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting and financing such activities may face sentences of three to five years.
During an interview on The Big Issue with Selorm Adonoo on Citi TV, Mr. Cudjoe criticised the bill, arguing that it lacked thorough analysis and consideration, particularly regarding the imprisonment of LGBTQ individuals.
“I don’t think it is sensible to imprison anyone who you believe is gay unless, of course, that person must have raped; you think they must have unduly influenced other people, especially minors and you found them.
“But how are you going to police people who are doing their acts in the bedroom? I think the law was limited in terms of sensible thinking and analysis in that regard,” he stated.
On February 28, 2024, Parliament approved legislation criminalising LGBTQ activities and prohibiting their advocacy, promotion, and financial support.
Under this law, individuals found guilty could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting and financing such activities may face sentences of three to five years.
During an interview on The Big Issue with Selorm Adonoo on Citi TV, Mr. Cudjoe criticised the bill, arguing that it lacked thorough analysis and consideration, particularly regarding the imprisonment of LGBTQ individuals.
“I don’t think it is sensible to imprison anyone who you believe is gay unless, of course, that person must have raped; you think they must have unduly influenced other people, especially minors and you found them.
“But how are you going to police people who are doing their acts in the bedroom? I think the law was limited in terms of sensible thinking and analysis in that regard,” he stated.
On Saturday, March 9, 2024, prominent members of the rulingNew Patriotic Party (NPP) paid a visit to the residence of the late Member of Parliament for Ejisu, Dr. John Kumah, to offer their condolences to his family.
A video from the visit depicts the emotional state of the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Wontumi.
In the footage, the regional chairman is visibly overcome with emotion, shedding uncontrollable tears and requiring assistance to move as he interacts with the bereaved family.
Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the age of 45.
Associates of the late Deputy Minister for Finance have indicated that he passed away while en route from Kumasi to Accra for further medical treatment in Germany.
Though the exact cause of the MP’s demise remains uncertain, there have been allegations suggesting that John Kumah may have been poisoned prior to his passing.
According to Captain Smart, the host of Onua FM’s morning show, both the MP and Chairman Wontumi were allegedly poisoned sometime in the latter part of the previous year.
Emotional Chairman Wontumi crying profusely on his visit to the house of deceased John Kumah. Hmm this is sad. pic.twitter.com/eiEaXZKSvb
A study on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) carried out in Ga Mashie, Accra, has uncovered that six out of every ten residents in the area were affected by either hypertension, diabetes, or obesity.
Specifically, the prevalence of diabetes was found to be 8.2 percent, while hypertension prevalence saw a 19 percent increase between 2013 and 2023.
The study also revealed that individuals with diabetes experienced a lower quality of life compared to those without the condition.
Conducted by the Contextual Awareness Response and Evaluation (CARE) Diabetes project team, comprising members from the University of Ghana, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, and UHAS, the study received funding from the MRC of the UK Research and Innovation.
The study aimed to gain contextual insights into diabetes in Ga-Mashie and identify opportunities for community-based intervention strategies for diabetes prevention and control.
It involved sampling adults aged 25 years and older from 80 enumeration areas derived from the 2021 Ghana Population and Housing Census.
During a dissemination meeting held in Accra, Dr. Raphael Awuah, a co-investigator of the CARE Diabetes team, presented the findings alongside Dr. Sandra Boatemaa Kushitor.
They highlighted that while knowledge of the causes of diabetes was relatively high in the community, there were still some misconceptions present.
It was further revealed that while the average income in the area was very low, at less than GH¢600, residents with diabetes were spending 85 percent of this income to manage their condition.
A majority of these individuals did not have health insurance, leading them to pay directly out of pocket for healthcare services.
Despite the availability of numerous healthcare providers, a third of those living with diabetes sought care from biomedical sources, according to the study’s findings.
The study also identified an abundance of unhealthy foods in the community, leading residents to consume what was readily accessible to them.
Speaking later to the Daily Graphic about the implications of the study, Dr. Awuah described the findings as alarming, given the prevalence of both communicable and non-communicable diseases in the community, resulting in a double burden of disease.
He urged all stakeholders, including the NCD division of the Ghana Health Service, to prioritise communities like Ga Mashie, which are urban poor, when planning strategies to reduce the burden of NCDs in the country.
In response to the findings, the CARE Diabetes project plans to implement a pilot intervention program aimed at enrolling community residents in theNational Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Professor Kwadwo Koram, another co-investigator of the CARE Diabetes team, emphasised the growing prevalence of diabetes not only in Ghana but worldwide, highlighting the concerning trend of NCDs affecting even the youth.
The study measured various parameters such as weight, height, waist circumference, blood pressure, and random blood glucose levels of participants, along with their healthcare-seeking behaviour, healthcare expenditure, diabetes knowledge, and sociodemographic factors.
There is a pressing need for urgent action to address NCDs, including diabetes, in Ghana and globally, ensuring that interventions are community-oriented and accessible.
Responding to the low NHIS registration in Ga Mashie, the Assemblyman for the Ngleshie Electoral Area stressed the importance of intensified education on health insurance and improving access to healthcare services for residents.
Some residents reported difficulties in accessing healthcare services using their health insurance, particularly at public hospitals.
A recent report by the United Nations Children’s Agency has revealed that over 230 million women and girls have undergone female genital mutilation, with the majority residing in Africa.
Within the past eight years alone, approximately 30 million individuals have been subjected to this harmful procedure, which involves the partial or complete removal of external genitalia.
Despite a decline in the percentage of women and girls affected by female genital mutilation, UNICEF cautioned that efforts to eliminate the practice are progressing too slowly to match the rapid growth of populations.
“The practice of female genital mutilation is declining, but not fast enough,” the report said.
Female genital mutilation, a practice erroneously thought to regulate women’s sexuality, poses severe risks, including excessive bleeding and fatalities. Girls undergo this procedure at various stages, from infancy to adolescence.
Over time, it can result in urinary tract infections, menstrual issues, discomfort, reduced sexual fulfilment, and childbirth difficulties. Additionally, it may lead to psychological effects such as depression, diminished self-esteem, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
“We’re also seeing a worrying trend that more girls are subjected to the practice at younger ages, many before their fifth birthday. That further reduces the window to intervene,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
The report highlights that Africa has the highest number of women and girls subjected to female genital mutilation, with approximately 144 million affected. Asia and the Middle East follow, with 80 million and 6 million cases, respectively.
Somalia stands out as the country with the highest prevalence, with 99% of females aged 15 to 49 having undergone the practice.
However, Burkina Faso has made significant strides, reducing the percentage of circumcised women in the same age group from 80% to 30% over a thirty-year period.
Additionally, the report notes that 4 out of every 10 survivors reside in conflict-affected regions with rapid population growth rates, highlighting how political instability hampers efforts to combat the practice and assist victims.
“Ethiopia, Nigeria and Sudan account for the largest numbers of girls and women who have undergone female genital mutilation in conflict-affected countries,” the report said.
While the report acknowledged advancements achieved in certain nations, it cautioned that the global community is not on track to fulfill the United Nations’ objective of eliminating the practice entirely by 2030.
“In some countries, progress would need to be 10 times faster than the best progress observed in history to reach the target by 2030,” said the report.
Nimco Ali, CEO of the Five Foundation, a UK-based charity that fights female genital mutilation, said the UNICEF estimates were “shocking” and “devastating,” and more funding is urgently needed to end the practice.
“We must use the last six years of this decade to finally get to grips with this abhorrent abuse of a girl’s human rights and save the next generation from the horrors of FGM,” the Somali-born activist, author and female genital mutilation survivor said in a press release.
Ekumfi Traditional Council has issued a response to President Akufo-Addo’s remarks regarding the alleged deliberate lack of development in the Ekumfi constituency following their opposition to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidate, Francis Kingsley Ato Cudjoe, in the 2020 general elections.
The chiefs are extremely shocked and struggle to believe that the president will treat the people of Ekumfi with such “dislike and disdain.”
“We the Nananom of Ekumfi and our people have become aware of highly disappointing and regrettable remarks made by H.E. the President when a family queen mother and others claiming to be members of the late Professor Atta Mills’ family visited him at the Jubilee House to demand an autopsy report of the late President.”
The Traditional Council also requested that the President provide detailed information on the accomplishments of the former MP, Ato Cudjoe, during his tenure serving the people of Ekumfi.
“If this is the reason the President has neglected and denied us developmental projects, then we demand scientific data to illustrate what the former MP did for the people of Ekumfi before he ceased to be the MP for the people of Ekumfi. We believe that accurate data would justify the President’s claim that Honourable Ato Cudjoe should have been retained by the people of Ekumfi.
“The people of Ekumfionly exercised their democratic right during the last election and this right must never be used as a tool for punishing the very president who is enjoined by the 1992 Constitution and his own Oath of Office to uphold the Constitution of the country,” they said.
The Council also called on the President to “ensure that all stalled developmental initiatives in Ekumfi start in earnest, so they can assume that the President regrets making those displeasing statements.”.
Read the full statement below:
PRESS RELEASE FROM EKUMFI TRADITIONAL COUNCIL ON LATE PROFESSOR JOHN EVANS ATTA MILLS AND MATTERS ARISING
In 2008, the late Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, a proud Fantse, won the General Elections and became the President of Ghana. As we are all aware, Professor Mill’s victory made all Ghanaians proud, as his father’s mantra and leadership qualities united Ghanaians and was loved by all.
The good people of the Central Region became extremely happy that for the first time since the country’s independence through the inception of the 1992 Republican Constitution, the region, which is well noted for being the citadel of quality education, has been able to produce a full bright scholar to lead Ghana as President.
As a matter of fact, we, the people of Ekumfi, are exceptionally proud that our dear brother, father, uncle and son, who had always been selfless, humble, respectful, and duly respected by all and sundry regardless of how they voted in national elections, earned him the accolade “Asomdwee Hen.”
Like any other great leader in history, Professor Mills could not have ruled forever, but he definitely paid his dues to the country as a true statesman who had to sacrifice himself, and laid his dear life for the nation even when it became obvious that his health was failing.
We all remember vividly how the entire nation was plunged into sadness when his untimely demise occurred about twelve years ago, and the way Ghanaians across the world mourned him, could amply bear an indelible testimony that indeed Ghanaians truly loved and cherished this charismatic leader. This is why Ghanaians collectively held a befitting burial to honour his passing and prayed to God and our ancestors to continue to keep his dear soul at peace.
There has been an emergence of controversy surrounding the whereabouts of an Autopsy report on his death. Ordinarily, since Professor Mills died while still serving the country as President and also as a statesman, with immediate siblings and families still alive, we, the Nananom of Ekumfi would have loved to stay back and allow his family clan and particularly his siblings to effectively collaborate with the state to put the issue to rest, so our dear Professor could rest in peace. But it does appear that some narratives and aspersions do robe us in and often cast some innuendoes that directly and negatively affect us as Nananom and people of Ekumfi.
In view of this, we, the Nananom of Ekumfi, believe that if the extended family or any member of the family has issues with the report, they could jaw-jaw with the immediate family to have their disagreement settled once and for all, instead of the recurring media banter. Nananom wishes to state that the raging back-and-forth wrangling is not just appalling but also disgraceful and disgusting; projecting the family as a disintegrated one.
To set the records straight, the Paramount Chief Odeefo Akyin VIII has not elected nor delegated anybody nor any group of persons to His Excellency (H.E.) the President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo or any other institution to demand an Autopsy on the late Professor Mills for us, or on behalf of the family.
We therefore want to state emphatically that any attempt to link theChiefs of Ekumfi to any such action is malicious, untrue and mischievous, and must be treated with the contempt it deserves.
Ekumfi Nananom, led by the Paramount Chief Odeefo Akyin VIII also wishes to send a strong signal to anyone or group of persons purported to come from Ekumfi or elsewhere who allow themselves to be used to perpetuate such disgraceful and malicious acts. They may have to prepare to face the wrath of Nananom.
The late Professor Atta Mills must be allowed to rest in peace!
Ghana’s campaign in the men’s football tournament at the 2023 African Games got off to a tough start as they faced Congo in their opening group match, resulting in a frustrating draw.
Despite high hopes and anticipation, the encounter ended in a goalless stalemate, leaving Desmond Ofei’s side with mixed feelings about their performance on the pitch.
Despite dominating possession and creating several goal-scoring opportunities, including threatening moves orchestrated by Abdul Aziz Issah and Jerry Afriyie, the Black Satellites were unable to find the back of the net.
The game saw Ghana’s attacking prowess on display, with relentless pressure on the Congolese defence throughout the match.
However, the inability to convert chances into goals proved to be their downfall, leaving both players and fans disappointed with the outcome.
In the dying moments of the game, a controversial decision by the officials denied Ghana a potential winning goal, further adding to the frustration of the team and supporters.
With this draw, Ghana now faces the challenge of refocusing for their upcoming fixture against Gambia.
Ghana’s men’s football team commenced their campaign in the 2023 African Games, facing Congo in their first group match, resulting in a disappointing draw.
Despite entering the match with optimism, the game concluded without any goals, leaving Desmond Ofei’s team with conflicting emotions about their performance.
Despite maintaining control of the ball and generating numerous scoring opportunities, including promising plays led by Abdul Aziz Issah and Jerry Afriyie, the Black Satellites failed to capitalize on them.
The match showcased Ghana’s offensive capabilities, as they consistently applied pressure on the Congolese defence.
However, the team’s inability to convert chances into goals proved to be their downfall, leaving both players and supporters dissatisfied with the result.
In the final moments of the game, a contentious decision by the officials deprived Ghana of a potential winning goal, intensifying the frustration among the team and fans.
Following this draw, Ghana must now regroup and prepare for their next encounter against Gambia, focusing on bouncing back from this setback.
Deputy Communications Director of the rulingNew Patriotic Party (NPP), Maame Afia Akoto, has expressed her grief over the passing of former Finance Minister John Kumah, in a unique manner.
Despite the sorrow caused by his death, she finds solace in the fact that Dr. Kumah’s unexpected demise has not led to any accusations against his wife, Apostle Lillian Kumah.
“I am thankful that they are not blaming the death on his wife. One reason I’m convinced it’s the doing of the Lord is because I know Lillian and I know how prayerful she is,” she said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem Friday.
She also noted that Dr. Kumah was known for his compassionate nature, extending his care and affection to everyone, including members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), who have also been deeply affected by his passing.
“He loved his wife; he adored her. John loved everyone, even the opposition NDC, which was touched by his demise. It’s painful but who is to question God?” the NPP woman added.
Presenter on Onua TV, Captain Smart has revealed additional information regarding the alleged poisoning incidents involving the late Member of Parliament for Ejisu, John Kumah.
Smart’s earlier reports, made in late February 2024, alleged that Kumah and other prominent members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) were targeted in poisoning schemes at different times. These claims gained attention following Kumah’s death announcement on March 7.
In a subsequent statement on Onua FM (March 8), Smart reiterated his earlier assertions and provided two new significant details. He discussed the frequency of the attacks on the deceased and disclosed the identity of an individual with whom Kumah shared one of the poisoned meals.
“Things are becoming scary in the NPP, that is all I can say and it is important people take good care of themselves. Also, in this world, even if no one kills you, death will come your way at some point,” Smart stressed.
“John Kumah survived the first attempt in Greater Accra before he was attacked in the Northern Region and the Ashanti Region,” Smart disclosed before adding that Kumah shared one of the poisoned meals with the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Wontumi.
“The very food he ate was consumed by Wontumi too; I was looking at them,” the TV host added without mentioning which region he was referring to.
Wontumi, in his tribute to Kumah, recounted a moment when the deceased stood by his side during a health scare several months ago, which he believed would end his life.
A journalist from Wontumi FM has also extensively discussed how Wontumi and the late MP were allegedly “poisoned” during a meal of guinea fowl in Tamale last year while on an inter-party campaign stop.
Meanwhile, the widow of the MP has filed a complaint with the police, urging Smart to provide evidence for the claims made about the deceased’s health in February.
Reverend Isaac Owusu-Bempah, the founder and leader of Glorious Word Power Ministry International, is urging Ghanaians to reconsider the significance of prophets and prophecies in light of the recent passing of Ejisu Member of Parliament, John Ampontuah Kumah.
According to Rev. Owusu Bempah, it is undeniable that Nigel Gaisie, the founder and leader of Prophetic Hill Chapel, foretold of the potential danger surrounding the late MP.
He emphasised that the prophecy would have required the cooperation of the deceased and his family to prevent the incident—in this case, death.
“I heard you speaking to Prophet Nigel Gaisie earlier and what he said is right. In fact, he has said a lot and if Ghanaians and all of us will listen and take some lessons from it, it will help all of us because it is exactly what it is.
“Prophet Nigel Gaisie saw everything and went ahead to take some measures but unfortunately things didn’t turn out right because I believe that if he had the opportunity to meet with him (John Kumah), what happened wouldn’t have happened,” he told the host of Ade Akye Abia on Okay FM, Kwame Nkrumah Tikese, on Friday, March 8, 2024.
Owusu-Bempah highlighted that, as a prophet, he has previously received similar prophecies regarding dignitaries, such as Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He noted that the cooperation of the vice president and his associates led to the prevention of any potential calamity.
He expressed concern that the police directive against ‘fear and panic’ prophecies obstructs the work of God’s prophets in assisting individuals who may be in danger of future events.
John Kumah was pronounced dead on Thursday, March 7, 2024, while being transported from Kumasi to Accra for medical attention in Germany due to an unknown condition.
Following his passing, a video from Prophet Nigel Gaisie’s December 2023 watch-night service resurfaced on social media. In the video, Gaisie made predictions about a certain Deputy Minister for Finance, suggesting that the minister could rise to the highest government position if he could overcome impending threats against him.
“I saw a Deputy Minister of Finance; if he can take care of himself, I see him at the highest level of government, but they want to attack him.
“If he can take care of himself in the next few years, God will help him and I saw him at the seat of government, but they have ganged, they have sat down, and they want to crash him, a deputy minister of finance,” Prophet Nigel Gaisie declared without mentioning a specific name.
At the time when the prophecy was made, Ghana had two deputy finance ministers, namely John Kumah and Abena Osei-Asare.
Following the passing of John Kumah, Nigel Gaisie posted a message on his Facebook and acknowledged in radio interviews that he was indeed referring to the late MP and Deputy Minister for Finance.
Parliament has voted by majority to approve a $300 million loan agreement between the government of Ghana and the International Development Association (IDA).
The purpose of this facility, as stated by the government, is to support the financing of the 2024 budget.
However, the minority, led by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, opposed the loan, expressing concerns that it would further strain the country’s already delicate debt situation.
Instead of supporting the loan, the former Deputy Finance Minister urged the government to retract the over 7 billion cedis in tax exemptions granted to companies under the 1D1F program.
Deputy Finance Minister Mrs. Abena Osei-Asare countered the minority’s claims, arguing that the tax exemptions are essential for stimulating industrial growth.
Eric Opoku, the ranking member for the Food and Agriculture Committee, questioned the efficacy of the loan given the significant borrowing by the Nana Addo administration in the past, with little tangible results.
Minister for Trade and Industry K. T. Hammond questioned why the minority was attempting to link the loan facility with tax exemptions.
In a surprising turn of events, Ranking Member for the Finance Committee Isaac Adongo refuted his colleagues’ claims about tax exemptions, suggesting that the rejection of the $300 million facility from the World Bank was due to the government’s failure to present a $3 billion IMF bailout agreement to parliament for ratification.
Despite the debates, Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adams assured the minority that their concerns would be addressed. Ultimately, the loan was approved through a voice vote, with the majority prevailing.
In recent days, he has dedicated much of his time to observing coaching sessions at Manchester United’s Carrington training ground.
During this period, Boateng has had the opportunity to study under the guidance of Manchester United coaches Erik ten Hag and Steve McClaren.
Sources close to Boateng indicate his strong desire to improve himself as he prepares for a potential return to coaching in the near future.
Boateng previously served as the head coach of the Aston Villa U23 team and worked as an assistant coach alongside Otto Addo, contributing to Ghana’s qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Additionally, he assisted former Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton before losing his position when the Ghana Football Association disbanded the technical team following the team’s elimination from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
Six individuals’ dreams of immigrating to Panama for better opportunities have been shattered after they paid a total of US$14,500.00 in visa fraud to two businessmen, Abdul Aziz Iddris and Abdallah Abdul Sallam.
Alhassan Amin Mohammed, an employee of Ayawaso North Municipal Assembly residing in Alajo, Greater Accra region, initially entrusted the money to Abdul Aziz, who then passed it on to Abdallah.
However, the promised genuine visas never materialised, leading to Abdallah’s appearance in the Accra Circuit Court on charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and defrauding by false pretences.
He pleaded not guilty before Judge Isaac Addo on Monday, March 4, 2024, and was granted bail of GH¢200,000.00 with two sureties.
Abdallah was not the sole individual charged; Abdul Aziz also faced accusations. Despite being the primary accused (A1), Abdul Aziz failed to appear in court.
The prosecuting officer, Chief Inspector Jonas, requested a bench warrant for Abdul Aziz, but it was denied due to a lack of evidence proving that A1 had been served with the court hearing notice.
Alhassan initially approached businessman Abdul Aziz in June 2023, seeking assistance for himself and friends interested in immigrating to Panama for better prospects.
Allegedly, Al collected US$14,500.00 from the complainant to facilitate his friends’ travel from Ghana to Panama.
Out of this amount, Al gave US$10,000.00 to Abdallah (referred to as A2), another businessman, who purportedly promised to obtain Panama visas for the complainant’s friends.
After three weeks, A2 returned with the passports of the alleged victims, supposedly containing the visas.
However, two of the passengers, Musah Abdul Latif and Bismark Raymond, grew suspicious and decided to verify the authenticity of the visas at the Kotoka International Airport immigration office.
Their suspicions were confirmed when immigration officers declared the visas fake and unusable for travel. Subsequently, the matter was reported to the Accra Regional Police on September 7, 2023, leading to the arrest of Al and A2.
During interrogation, both Al and A2 confessed to the crimes outlined in their investigation caution statements.
On October 10, 2023, a letter was sent to the Ghana Immigration Service with the supposed Panama visas attached to verify their legitimacy.
The Ghana Immigration Service responded on January 19, 2024, confirming that the visas were counterfeit and invalid for travel.
Following an investigation, the accused individuals were formally charged and brought before the court.
The court has adjourned the next hearing of the case to April 16, 2024.
Prophet Nigel Gaisie, the founder and leader of Prophetic Hill Chapel, revealed that he tried to warn the late Deputy Finance Minister, John Kumah, about a vision he had concerning him.
Despite his efforts, Gaisie said Kumah blocked all attempts to reach out to him.
According to Gaisie, he received a vision about a potential threat to John Kumah’s life around April 2023. Worried for the minister’s safety, Gaisie sent his junior pastor to Kumah’s residence on multiple occasions, but they were unable to make contact each time.
“Over the years, if I see something like that, I will just say it when I am preaching, but we have been advised about death prophecies, that we should try to reach out to the person.
“So, I asked one of my junior pastors, Pastor Godsway, to go to his house; he went there about three times but unfortunately, on all those occasions, he didn’t meet him.
“Later, I had the prompt again and instructed him to go once more. He returned, reporting that the security man had informed him he wasn’t around and he spoke to the wife or something, so I wrote it down,” he said.
Speaking in an interview on Okay FM on March 8, 2024, Gaisie revealed that he tried to personally reach out to Kumah by calling him directly. However, he claimed that Kumah blocked his number.
“So, I spoke about it during the 31st night; I saw it but because of Dampare’s communique that said we should avoid death prophecies, I had to speak in innuendos and figurative expressions.
“And I used to have a relationship with him. In 2014/2015, he used to come to my church so I had his personal number, but just after 2017, when I saw a different revelation about his government, that God would bring John Mahama, he severed relations with me.
“When I sent my junior pastor and I didn’t hear from him, I tried to call, so when I called, there was a busy number and the next one was blocked, so I said okay at the end of the day. We reached out but they disrespected us,” he added.
John Kumah passed away at the Suhum Government Hospital after a short illness.
Apostle Lilian Kumah, the widow of the late Member of Parliament for Ejisu constituency, John Ampontuah Kumah, has reportedly filed a police complaint against Captain Smart, the host of the Onua TV morning show.
This action follows the untimely passing of the MP while en route from Kumasi to Accra for medical treatment in Germany for an undisclosed ailment.
Shortly after his demise, videos from a recent episode of Captain Smart’s show resurfaced on social media.
In these videos, the journalist alleged that the MP and several prominent members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) had been victims of food poisoning.
He specifically mentioned that the MP and NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, had suffered from food poisoning a few weeks prior.
According to reports from Asaaseradio.com, the late MP’s wife believes these claims by the journalist are baseless and are tarnishing the reputation of her husband and his family.
Consequently, she has urged the police to request evidence and substantiation from Captain Smart regarding his assertions concerning her husband’s demise.
Ghanaian lawyer and stalwart of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Gabby Otchere Darko, appears to have declared President Akufo-Addo as the appointed one to build the controversial National Cathedral project after tweeting a scripture on God choosing Solomon over David, his father, to build him a temple.
His tweet comes after the opposition National Democratic Congress MPs, led by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, went to commission the uncompleted cathedral in mockery of the incumbent government to highlight its failure to finish the project.
The Finance Minister, Ken-Ofori Atta, announced on the floor of Parliament that the National Cathedral project will be completed and commissioned on March 6, 2024, while delivering the 2021 mid-year budget review in Parliament on Thursday, July 29, 2021.
Consequently, the lawyer tweeted on March 7, 2024, 2 Chronicles 6:7-9, which states that
“My father David had it in his heart to build a temple for the Name of the Lord, the God of Israel. 8But the Lord said to my father David, ‘You did well to have it in your heart to build a temple for my Name. 9 Nevertheless, you are not the one to build the temple, but your son, your own flesh and blood—he is the one who will build the temple for my Name.’
Ghana requires infrastructure similar to the National Cathedral, according to South Dayi MP Rockson Etse Dafeamekpor.
He emphasised the absence of a central spiritual hub in the country and proposed that building a cathedral would be a beneficial endeavour.
In an interview with JoyNews, Mr. Dafeamekpor expressed reservations regarding the project’s chosen site and financing, implying a lack of government dedication to its realisation.
“It has always been my position that the idea is good, but the grievance people have is that, because we have moved into an economic meltdown, it is not necessary.
“We should not be doing it at this hour, but it is something if we have it, and if we have the wherewithal to support it, it is good to have it.
“Looking at the sums of money involved, we should have seen the structure up, even if it is not completed.”
Despite former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s assurance that the National Cathedral would be completed by March 6, 2024, construction progress remains limited to the foundation level.
Members of Parliament from the National Democratic Congress, led by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, attempted a symbolic commissioning of the project.
However, their efforts were met with opposition from security personnel, citing directives from higher authorities.
Nevertheless, Mr. Ablakwa outlined several demands during the incident.
“We are demanding full accountability for what happened to our $8,141,552. We are demanding that the board of trustees of the national cathedral be dissolved without delay.
“We are calling on all the prosecutor institutions to immediately commence the prosecution of all those who have caused this gross financial loss to the state,” he said.
Daughter of the late CEO of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, Tochi Wigwe, stirred emotions with her touching tribute to her father, portraying him as both strong and tender-hearted.
As she took the stage to speak, Tochi humorously shared her apprehension about public speaking.
Tochi Wigwe said, “I always used to tell my father that I really hated public speaking, but he tried to convince me that he hated it as well but” it was always something he did under compulsion. “So I’m going to try my best to be fearless.”
Managing to muster strength from within amidst the tears, Tochi began her tribute to her deceased father, Herbert Wigwe.
“In this moment, for the first time, your words resonate deeply within me. No longer do I want to tilt my head and squint my eyes in confusion. You were simply extraordinary. Amidst my tears, I reflect on the man that you are: driven, determined and always surpassing expectations.
“You urged me to reach new heights I never imagined. Whenever doubts clouded my mind, you will chuckle knowingly and say, ‘you really don’t know whose child you are; you’ll soon find out’ And once again, you were right, I’ve come to find out.
“I can never fathom how you managed to do it all. It seemed inconceivable, turning everything you touched to gold while remaining an unwavering anchor for your family and friends.”
Tochi Wigwe revealed how her father defied distances to see her whileschooling abroad.
Leader and founder of the Great Fire Pentecostal Church, Bishop Bonegas, has recounted a tragic event from his life when he lost his second-born child due to financial constraints preventing him from seeking medical treatment.
He explained that during the early stages of his ministry, he struggled financially, making it impossible for him to gather the required GH¢5 to take his child to the hospital.
Despite embarking on a two-week evangelism campaign, he couldn’t raise the funds. Even when he borrowed money from someone, it was too late.
In an interview with Fiifi Pratt on Kingdom FM, Bishop Bonegas revealed that his child passed away in his arms upon arrival at the hospital.
“There was a time when my second-born got sick with malaria. I needed just GH¢5, not GH¢50, to take my child to the hospital but it was difficult. I preached in town for almost two weeks but I didn’t get the money. The day somebody borrowed me GH¢5, the moment we got to the hospital, my child died in my hands,” he recounted.
Bishop Bonegas further stressed that he did not become who he is today by fluke, adding that he has encountered challenges in his ministry work.
A former personal assistant to thelate Herbert Wigwe, former CEO of Access Bank, shared an account of an incident that occurred in Germany early one morning when Wigwe requested him to fetch a charger.
In a video posted on YouTube by Channels TV, Faleye mentioned that upon entering Wigwe’s room, he was struck by the intensity in Wigwe’s gaze.
Although initially frightened, Faleye later found the courage to voice his concerns, and Wigwe explained that those moments were dedicated to reflecting on his plans and strategies.
Faleye concluded by praising Wigwe as a remarkable individual. In Faleye’s words: “I went to [Wigwe’s] room around 4 a.m., and what I saw scared me; I saw his eyeballs so deep, not like an ordinary human and I gave him the charger and I went back.
“In the afternoon, I asked him, sir, I was afraid when I saw you that morning and he said those are the times when he reflects on what to do.He was a great man; his dreams are scattered everywhere, germinating and growing.
Ghanaian music sensations,Shatta Wale and King Promise, are poised to captivate audiences at the opening ceremony of the 13th edition of the African Games, dubbed ‘Accra 2023’.
This eagerly awaited event is scheduled to unfold at the newly erected University of Ghana Sports Stadium on Friday, March 8, 2024. Joining them on stage will be acclaimed artists such as Pat Thomas, Ebo Taylor, and Kamo Mphela.
The African Games, hosted in Ghana, serve as a vibrant platform, bringing together athletes, officials, and spectators from across the continent to celebrate Africa’s rich cultural heritage and sporting talent.
Notable attendees anticipated at the ceremony include Ghana’s President, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, among others.
Running from March 8th to 23rd, 2024, the13th African Games in Ghana promise to showcase the prowess and diversity of Africa’s sporting landscape, with over 13,000 elite athletes, sports experts, technicians, officials, and volunteers set to partake in this grand celebration.
Ministry of Finance has sadly announced thepassing of Dr. John Kumah, who served as a Deputy Finance Minister.
In a post on their X platform on Thursday, the Ministry said, “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our Deputy Minister for Finance and MP for Ejisu Constituency, Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah. May he rest well in the Lord.”
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo expressed his condolences following the passing of Dr. John Kumah, highlighting the significant contributions made by the late Deputy Finance Minister to the government’s economic agenda.
Akufo-Addo credited Kumah for his instrumental role in advancing progress and ensuring the fair distribution of benefits across society.
Describing John Kumah as an outstanding Ghanaian patriot, President Akufo-Addo mourned the loss of the 45-year-old lawmaker for Ejisu, who leaves behind a wife and six children.
In a Facebook post, Mr Akufo-Addo said, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic news of the sudden death of the Deputy Minister for Finance and Member of Parliament for Ejisu, Hon. John Ampontuah Kumah, whose untimely passing has left us all bereft of a bright, energetic light in our midst.
“I knew him very well both in my days as Leader of the Opposition and as President of the Republic, and his warmth, humility, and genuine concern for others endeared him to me and to all who crossed his path. His unwavering dedication to service, his tireless commitment to the betterment of our nation, and his profound passion for uplifting the lives of the people of Ejisu and Ghana were evident to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was a stalwart of the New Patriotic Party in the Ejisu constituency, which he served with great enthusiasm and devotion as a Member of Parliament.
“He was the first Chief Executive Officer of the new entity I set up in my first term, the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP). He distinguished himself in that office and, therefore, merited his promotion to the office of Deputy Minister for Finance, where he brought not only expertise and skill but also a deep sense of compassion and empathy to his role.
His efforts were instrumental in advancing the government’s economic agenda and ensuring that the fruits of our progress were equitably shared among all segments of society. He was a Ghanaian patriot par excellence.
“To his wife, children, family and the New Patriotic Party in the Ejisu constituency and across the nation, I offer my deepest condolences. on their great loss. May God bless him and allow his soul to rest in perfect peace in His Bosom until the Last Day of the Resurrection when we shall all meet again.”
Parliament has suspended proceedings following news of the demise of the Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ejisu John Kumah.
According to JoyNews Kweku Asante, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt.Hon. Alban Bagbin, slammed into his chair after the news of the minister’s death broke to him.
He called for a ten-minute suspension of the house.
he later moved for the adjournment of the house for what he described as “good reasons.” Parliament is set to reconvene tomorrow, Friday, March 8, 2024, at 10pm to continue debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The family of the late Minister has yet to officially confirm his demise; however, according to reports, he collapsed in his office and was swiftly transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
Subsequently, due to a decline in his condition, he was flown out of the country.
While it is alleged that the minister was still receiving treatment and recuperating from a poison attack, the cause of his death is currently unknown and has taken the country by surprise.
Dr. Kumah, theMember of Parliament for Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, was known for his diverse roles as a Lawyer, Entrepreneur, and dedicated politician.
He is survived by Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, and six children.
