Parliamentwill kick off the fifth meeting of its fourth session today, October 15, 2024, at the Dome of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).
This temporary shift in venue is a result of ongoing renovation works in the main parliamentary chamber, which usually hosts the legislative body.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin made this announcement on September 30, 2024.
This session is significant in the legislative calendar as Members of Parliament (MPs) return from a brief recess, with expectations to tackle several pressing national matters.
Among the highlights is the anticipated review and discussion of key bills and agreements critical to Ghana’s developmental agenda.
In particular, Parliament recently convened for an emergency two-day session at the Dome on September 3 to approve a $250 million loan agreement with the World Bank.
The government stressed the importance of this agreement to bolster the nation’s energy sector and foster economic recovery, underscoring the need for Parliament’s financial backing for essential national projects.
The Nigerian national football team, known as the Super Eagles, faced an unexpected setback at Al Abraq airport in Libya.
They were en route to Benghazi for an important Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
However, their flight was redirected to Al Abraq just an hour before landing, a city more than two hours away from their intended destination. This sudden change left the team in a challenging situation, far from where they needed to be.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had carefully organised their travel plans, arranging a chartered flight to land directly in Benghazi. This location was chosen for its proximity to Benina, ensuring a short journey to their accommodations.
However, the unexpected diversion disrupted these plans, leaving the team without immediate transportation upon arrival.
Journalist Adepoju Tobi Samuel reported that although the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had arranged transportation in Benghazi, the Libyan Football Association failed to provide any alternative solutions at Al Abraq airport.
The situation escalated as the Super Eagles found themselves stranded for over 12 hours within the airport, with no buses or transport options available.
Samuel noted the frustration of the NFF, which attempted to arrange alternative transport but faced resistance due to the airport gates being closed.
Team captain and defender Troost-Ekong took to social media to share their experience, describing the airport as desolate and the team as isolated, without even phone connectivity.
He expressed his disappointment over the Libyan government’s abrupt cancellation of their approved landing in Benghazi, implying that such actions were psychological tactics ahead of their important match.
Black Stars have arrived in Libya, gearing up for a crucial match against Sudan in the qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
This upcoming clash is vital for Ghana as they strive to secure their place in the esteemed tournament scheduled to be held in Morocco next year. Ghana’s qualifying campaign has been inconsistent, with the team earning only two points from three matches.
Their last match against Kwasi Appiah’s team ended in a goalless draw, reflecting the difficulties they are encountering in their pursuit of qualification.
The Black Stars, who have previously won the AFCON title four times, must adopt a strategic mindset to overcome the challenges they face in the upcoming encounter with Sudan.
The Black Stars arrived in Libya on Sunday, October 13, demonstrating their commitment to reversing their fortunes in the qualifiers.
With just days remaining until the pivotal match against Sudan on Tuesday, October 15, the team is concentrating on honing their tactics and fostering team unity.
A win in this crucial encounter would greatly enhance their prospects of qualifying for the tournament in Morocco next year.
With excitement mounting, fans and football lovers are keen to witness how Otto Addo’s squad will approach this challenge.
The upcoming match against Sudan represents more than just a chance to earn points; it’s an opportunity for the Black Stars to showcase their strength and talent on an international platform.
Their journey through the qualifiers has been filled with ups and downs, and this forthcoming game could prove to be a pivotal moment in their campaign.
Gospel artiste Empress Gifty has disclosed that she was approached to host United Showbiz, aired on United Television (UTV) after actress Nana Ama McBrown resigned from the role.
According to her, the Managing Director of Despite Media, Fadda Dickson, and General Manager, Kennedy Osei, offered her the opportunity to host the show, but she could not accept it due to her travel schedule.
She explained that, at that time, she spent most of her time in the United States (US), as she was involved in some businesses to raise income for herself.
Speaking in an interview with Kwaku Manu, Empress Gifty indicated that she is now fully employed at Despite Media and earns the right income.
“When McBrown left, I was approached to host the show (United Showbiz), but because of my consistent travels, I declined the offer, and management understood me.
“I barely stayed in the country at that time. I believe that when the time is right for something, God will make it work. Currently, I am a full staff member who is being paid a monthly salary,” she said in Twi.
Meanwhile, Empress Gifty is the host of the U-Cook show, aired on UTV on Sundays.
Host of Onua Showtime Nana Ama McBrown voiced her discontent after Empress Gifty failed to appear for the most recent episode of her show.
Towards the end of the programme, McBrown addressed the absence, expressing her frustration regarding Gifty’s last-minute withdrawal, which was communicated through her producer rather than directly to her.
“We shared our flyer about our guests, and Empress Gifty was supposed to be here. I’ve just been informed that she has to attend to an emergency and can’t make it.
However, she didn’t provide any details about the emergency, and we don’t know what it entails,” she explained.
McBrown added, “There’s nothing we can do about it. All we can do is wish her luck. But we’re pained by this. Empress, you had to tell me at the last minute that you wouldn’t be able to make it?”
Her frustration extended to the manner in which Empress communicated her absence.
“You had to tell your producer to inform my producer instead of calling me directly? You have my direct contact and WhatsApp number. Why didn’t you personally reach out?” she questioned.
McBrown further posed a question, “Would you be happy if I treated you the same way? Call me, or I won’t forgive you,” she stated.
Empress Gifty and McBrown’s recent interaction
Despite the rumored tension between them, Nana Ama McBrown and Empress Gifty shared an unexpectedly pleasant interaction at the one-week observance of Dr. Osei Kwame Despite’s mother-in-law.
The two were seen engaging in a friendly conversation, exchanging compliments, with no signs of a feud. During the event, Empress Gifty even took the chance to ask McBrown when she would help promote her new song.
“Please, you haven’t recorded a video for my new song yet,” she inquired.
McBrown assured her, saying, “I won’t let our enemies rejoice over us; I’ll record a video for your song, okay?” Empress responded, “Don’t let our enemies get to us, please.”
Background of their feud
The friction between Nana Ama McBrown and Empress Gifty began when Gifty introduced a new cooking show on UTV, which took over the slot previously held by “McBrown’s Kitchen” following McBrown’s move to Media General.
McBrown expressed her dissatisfaction, accusing others of imitating her concept and reaffirming her position in the cooking show space.
This sparked a back-and-forth between the two, further intensified by claims that McBrown had consistently outshone Gifty’s opportunities, including the “Onua Showtime” program.
Their rivalry has become a trending topic of conversation among fans on social media.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has addressed the criticism from certain footballers regarding the congested football calendar, expressing confusion as to why it is predominantly higher-paid players voicing their concerns.
Ceferin pointed out that the more matches that are played, the more revenue is generated, allowing clubs to pay the high wages demanded by top players.
He argued that it is ironic for well-paid players to complain, given that the increased game schedule directly contributes to their salaries.
He also noted that players earning lower wages and clubs with smaller squads seem to remain silent, likely because they rely on this revenue to sustain their operations.
“Players complaining about the calendar? Who is complaining? Those who have higher salaries and those who have 25 top-level players.
Those who earn less and only have 11 players don’t complain, and they love to play,” he said, as shared by Madrid Universal on X.
Ceferin’s remarks came after prominent players from top European leagues threatened to strike if the congested football calendar is not adjusted.
These players, includingManchester City’s Rodri,Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal, Barcelona’s Jules Koundé, and Liverpool’s Virgil Van Dijk, among others, argue that playing over 60 matches in a single season places undue strain on their health due to the physical and mental demands involved.
They emphasised that the intense schedule takes a significant toll on their well-being, calling for changes to protect player health.
The Martyrs of February Stadium in Benghazi, Libya, will be the venue for Ghana’s crucial match against Sudan in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)qualifiers on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
This fixture comes just five days after the two sides played out a hard-fought draw at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
Sudan’s draw allowed them to maintain second place in the group, leaving them well-positioned for AFCON qualification. Ghana, however, faces a must-win situation in this encounter to keep their hopes alive for qualification to the tournament, which is set to take place in Morocco.
Convert the chances
In the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium, Ghana generated six clear-cut opportunities but failed to capitalise on any of them.
If the Black Stars hope to secure qualification, they cannot afford to squander the golden chances they missed in the previous encounter.
Key players like Antoine Semenyo, Mohammed Kudus, and Inaki Williams must be clinical in front of goal and deliver the needed results for Ghana.
Take advantage of the set-pieces
In the first leg, Ghana had as many as sixteen corner kicks, yet none of the corners resulted in a goal.
For a team that lacks a potent goal-scorer, set-pieces are great avenues for goals, and the Black Stars must take advantage of these chances.
Be wary of the Sudanese fast-breaks
For Sudan, a draw in this match wouldn’t be disastrous, so they’re unlikely to adopt an attacking approach against Ghana. Instead, they will probably stick to the same defensive setup they used in the first leg.
However, with their fast wingers, Sudan poses a serious attacking threat, and the Black Stars need to be alert to the danger of quick counter-attacks.
Ghana’s players, especially the fullbacks and defensive midfielders, must remain focused and avoid lapses in concentration, as they could easily be caught off-guard by Sudan’s swift transitions.
He argues that such inconsistencies bring ridicule to God, as prophets are seen as representatives of the divine on Earth, and their messages should align.
During his appearance on United Showbiz on Saturday, Arnold emphasised that these contradictory statements from prophets foster distrust among believers, which ultimately diminishes people’s faith in God.
“We are mocking God if one representative of God is saying A, the other B. It breeds mistrust. Some of the purposes for going to church is trust because we believe that something will happen there.
So if I have 2 representatives of God giving me 2 different accounts of a particular thing, in my mind, I’ll feel I’m at the wrong place. Memberships are decreasing because of the lack of trust in pastors nowadays,” he stated.
Arnold also emphasised that these contradicting prophecies could lead to societal unrest, citing an instance where Reverend Owusu-Bempah prophesied the death of the Chief Iman.
“In 2019, Rev. Owusu Bempah said in December that Chief Imam would pass away. This triggered some Muslim youths to ambush his church, destroy properties, and assault some members. And so these prophecies can lead to unrest sometimes.”
Arnold then stated that prophets who make fake prophecies should be confronted.
“For me, to conclude, we have to call out prophets who make a declaration and it doesn’t come to pass,” he stated.
This discussion arises in the context of the recent prophecies regarding the upcoming December 7 elections, as well as previous predictions made in recent years that did not materialise.
In December 2022, the police cautioned religious leaders against making conventional New Year prophecies that could incite fear, anxiety, or even lead to fatalities.
This directive was implemented in 2021 following a surge of dire predictions concerning deaths and disasters that overwhelmed the public.
Veteran broadcaster Nana Aba Anamoah has responded to critics who criticised her for backing Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s strategies to address the issue of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
In a post on her X account, Nana Aba reaffirmed her commitment to her political views, stating that she stands by everything she shares online. She also advised her detractors that name-calling in response to her support for the government’s approach to tackling galamsey will not change her opinion.
“When it comes to politics, I stand by everything I post. Calling me names won’t change anything,” Nana Aba told her critics.
In her message, she suggested that those offended by her previous tweet regarding the vice president should “get themselves a stiff drink.”
She further commented that supporters from both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) have attacked her in the past, which she views as typical. “If you’re hurt, get a stiff drink.
Both parties always attack me. It’s normal for me. I’m not your stooge like some people—that’s why it hurts. I know,” she added.
Media figure Nana Aba Anamoah praised Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his thorough approach to addressing the issue of illegal mining, known as galamsey.
In a recent stakeholder meeting, Dr. Bawumia presented a preventive strategy designed to clean up the small-scale mining sector. His plan involves empowering the Geological Survey Authority to accurately map mineral reserves and creating a resource pool of equipment to promote sustainable mining practices.
In response to these initiatives, Nana Aba conveyed her support and emphasised the Vice President’s keen insight into the challenges associated with galamsey.
She pointed out that his strategy provides practical solutions to effectively tackle the problem.
Mohammed Ismail Sherif, widely recognised as Black Sherif,has emerged as a prominent voice against the detrimental effects of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, on Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.
At the recent Tidal Rave event held at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, themed “Catch the Sun,” Black Sherif used his platform to share footage illustrating the severe environmental damage caused by galamsey.
The visuals struck a chord with the enthusiastic crowd, who chanted his name, “Blacko, Blacko,” throughout his performance.
At just 22 years old, Black Sherif joins a growing list of celebrities, including Gyakie and Dr. Likee, who have expressed their disapproval of illegal mining.
Dr. Likee, in particular, has announced that audiences should look forward to his upcoming film tackling the issue of galamsey.
Despite the heavy rain earlier in the day, which delayed the event’s start to 4 p.m., fans flocked to witness the exciting performances and have a great time.
The atmosphere was electric, featuring remarkable sets from artists such as R2Bees, Edem, Kwesi Arthur, Pappy Kojo, and KiDi, each contributing to an unforgettable night.
Ghanaian musician and politician Kwame Asare Obeng, known as Kwame A Plus, recently shared insights from a discussion he had with Reverend Isaac Owusu-Bempah, the head of Glorious Word Power Ministry International, about the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
A Plus recounted advising Reverend Owusu-Bempah against his affiliation with the NPP, expressing his belief that it was not a wise choice for him. However, the reverend chose to ignore this advice and continued his support for the party.
During his appearance on UTV’s United Showbiz on Saturday, October 12, 2024, A Plus reflected on how he had previously cautioned Owusu-Bempah about the party’s unsuitability for him.
He further suggested that the challenges Owusu-Bempah is currently experiencing may be a form of divine punishment, noting that the reverend came to understand this truth following his arrest and subsequent detention.
“The truth is that Rev. Owusu-Bempah is my elder brother, but it is God who has punished him for whatever is happening in his life. I warned him against these people (NPP), that they are not good. But he sat me down and lectured me on the best government for this country.
When he was arrested, he realised that… I told my brother not to follow these people; I prophesied to him that these people are not good, but he still insisted. The day he was remanded into police custody, I wanted to call him and congratulate him that my prophecy had come to pass,” A Plus recounted.
A Plus also expressed his support for Owusu-Bempah’s recent prophecy, which predicts that National Democratic Congress flagbearer John Dramani Mahama will win the December 7 elections.
“As for that prophecy, I believe it. He should keep giving that prophecy. I won’t believe any other prophecy apart from a prophecy about John Mahama winning,” he said.
A Plus also voiced his endorsement of Owusu-Bempah’s recent prediction, which forecasts thatJohn Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress, will emerge victorious in the upcoming elections on December 7.
Ghanaian musician Blakk Rasta has put forward his album Salaga Soljah for consideration in the Best Reggae Album category as the first round of voting for the 67th Grammy Awards continues.
Notably, it stands out as the only African reggae album competing among more than 75 submissions in this category.
The competition includes submissions from well-known international artists such as Vybz Kartel with Party With Me, The Wailers with Evolution, and UB40 with UB45, along with various compilations like the Jamaica Festival Song 2024 Competition and Celebrating Jamaica 62.
According to the Recording Academy, the Best Reggae Album category “recognises excellence in albums of reggae music, including roots reggae, dancehall, and ska.”
To qualify for consideration, albums must consist of over 75% of new reggae recordings, and artists, producers, and engineers can be nominated only if they contributed more than 50% of the album’s playing time.
Blakk Rasta’s Salaga Soljah is a live-recorded album featuring twenty tracks performed in English, French, and various African languages, including Dioula, Dagbani, Hausa, Sissala, Akan, and Gruni.
The album includes collaborations with notable international reggae artists such as Anthony B, Tiken Jah Fakoly, and King Ayisoba.
Blakk Rasta is hopeful that a nomination or a Grammy win for an African reggae album would highlight reggae’s significance and influence on the continent. He sees winning the Best Reggae Album award as a tribute to the legacy of reggae legends like Bob Marley and The Wailers.
The nominees for the67th Grammy Awardsare set to be announced on November 8, 2024, while the main ceremony will take place on February 2, 2025.
A new report from theWorld Bank released on Sunday highlights that the world’s 26 poorest countries, which are home to 40% of the most impoverished individuals, are experiencing their highest levels of debt since 2006.
These nations are also increasingly susceptible to natural disasters and other shocks.
The findings reveal that, on average, these economies are currently in a worse financial position than they were just before the COVID-19 pandemic, even as most of the globe has bounced back and returned to a growth path.
Published just a week before the annual meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund in Washington, this report signifies a significant setback in the battle against extreme poverty.
It also emphasizes the World Bank’s goal to secure $100 billion this year to replenish the International Development Association (IDA), which funds the world’s poorest countries.
The economies studied, each with an annual per-capita income below $1,145, are increasingly dependent on IDA grants and loans with near-zero interest rates, as traditional market financing options have largely disappeared.
The average debt-to-GDP ratio for these countries has reached 72%, the highest level in 18 years, with half of them either in debt distress or at a high risk of it.
Additionally, two-thirds of these nations are grappling with armed conflict or struggling to maintain order due to institutional and social instability, which hampers foreign investment.
Most of them rely heavily on commodity exports, making them vulnerable to frequent economic fluctuations.
“At a time when much of the world simply backed away from the poorest countries, IDA has been their lifeline,” World Bank chief economist Indermit Gill said in a statement.
“Over the past five years, it has poured most of its financial resources into the 26 low-income economies, keeping them afloat through the historic setbacks they suffered.”
The International Development Association (IDA) is typically replenished every three years through contributions from countries that hold shares in theWorld Bank.
In 2021, it achieved a record funding level of $93 billion, and World Bank President Ajay Banga is striving to surpass that figure, aiming for over $100 billion in pledges by December 6.
Over the past decade, natural disasters have increasingly impacted these countries. From 2011 to 2023, they experienced average annual losses equivalent to 2% of their GDP due to natural calamities—five times higher than the average loss faced by lower-middle-income countries.
This situation underscores the urgent need for significantly greater investments, according to the World Bank.
The report also emphasizes that these nations, which feature large informal sectors operating outside their taxation systems, need to take proactive measures for their own improvement.
It suggests enhancing tax collection efforts by simplifying taxpayer registration and streamlining tax administration processes, as well as increasing the efficiency of public spending.
Eminent Ghanaian clergyman, His Eminence Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson, has expressed deep concern over Ghana’s inability to tackle the growing threat of illegal small-scale mining, known locallyas galamsey.
During an interview on TV3’s The Big Issue, which aired on X on Sunday, October 13, 2024, Cardinal Turkson highlighted the severe damage galamsey has inflicted on the nation’s environment, specifically its forests and water bodies, while also undermining the country’s economy.
As the Chancellor of both the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences in the Vatican, the cardinal stressed that if the government continues to fail in halting illegal mining activities, Ghana risks straying from the founding principles of OsagyefoDr. Kwame Nkrumahand moving dangerously close to becoming a failed state.
His remarks resonate with the growing frustration among Ghanaians, as environmental degradation and the destruction of key water sources have increasingly threatened the livelihoods of local communities and the future sustainability of the country.
“If the status quo remains, we’ll get to a stage, to put it bluntly, of a failed state. Because, I mean, we’ve depended on cocoa production. We are basically an economy that was based on mining and agriculture. Kwame Nkrumah, in his wisdom, asked miners to go down and get the minerals while leaving the surface for farming, so we could feed ourselves.
“That wisdom has been lost. We’re not going down to get the minerals, and we’re not preserving the surface. We are taking the vegetation, removing the topsoil, and leaving potholes. His vision, according to me, was far more correct than the present or whatever,” he said.
He added, “If we continue this way, we’ll lose our vegetation in the era of climate change, which is something we cannot afford. We lose our topsoil, and food production becomes an issue.”
Indian politician, Baba Siddique, 66, was fatally shot in Mumbai, the country’s commercial hub, as gunmen attacked him near his son’s office, according to local media.
Siddique, a prominent figure in Maharashtra’s political landscape and a former local minister, had recently defected from the opposition Congress Party to join the regional National Congress Party (NCP), which is part of the state’s ruling coalition with the BJP.
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the assassination, while police continue to search for a third.
Although the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, reports suggest that the attackers may have links to the gang of notorious criminal Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently incarcerated for involvement in high-profile murder cases, including the 2022 killing of rapper Sidhu Moose Wala.
The incident occurred despite heightened security in Mumbai due to a major Hindu festival. Siddique had been receiving death threats in recent weeks, which had led to an upgrade in his security detail.
Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who belongs to the same party as Siddique, condemned the “cowardly attack.” Opposition parties criticised the government, citing a serious security lapse and calling for an investigation into the killing.
Siddique, known for his lavish parties and ties to Bollywood celebrities, was expected to play a key role in Maharashtra’s upcoming legislative elections next month.
Anti-Cocoa Smuggling Taskforce of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), in collaboration with national security, has apprehended a driver and a mate at old Akrade in the Asuogyaman district for attempting to smuggle cocoa beans.
The taskforce received a tip-off around midnight about individuals transporting cocoa beans to Togo.
Through surveillance, the taskforce uncovered a staggering 100 bags of cocoa beans concealed under a load of chippings in a tipper truck with the registration number GN-1773-24.
The source described the operation as decisive one against growing cocoa smuggling in the country and that it underscored the commitment of authorities to safeguard Ghana’s cocoa industry and combat illegal trading activities aimed at exporting cocoa beans across the border to neighbouring Togo.
“Because of the heavy security officials of the military and immigration at the two tollbooths on the Adomi Bridge, we suspected them to have used a ferry to cross the lake at Senchi so that they would go through Juapong to their preferred location,” the security official said.
Recently, Ghana’s cocoa sector has been facing significant challenges due to widespread smuggling, climate change, disease, and illegal mining activities.
Cocoa is also more profitable in the Ivory Coast and Togo than in Ghana because of a more stable CFA franc currency and a less regulated sector, according to experts.
By the end of June, Ghana had produced 429,323 metric tonnes of cocoa, which is less than 55 percent of the average production at the same point in previous seasons.
According to the anti-smuggling task force, cocoa losses due to smuggling have more than tripled in 2023/24. It is conservatively estimated that the country lost 160,000 tonnes.
However, efforts by the task force have yielded some marginal results as it was able to intercept about 250 tons, up from 17 tons in 2022/23.
Asante-Akim North MP, Andy Appiah-Kubi, has admitted that Parliament made a mistake in passing Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which permitted mining in forest reserves.
Speaking in an interview with TV3 on Saturday, October 12, he expressed remorse over the decision, acknowledging its role in the widespread environmental damage caused by mining activities throughout the country.
“We have failed as Members of Parliament for passing LI.2462,” Andy Appiah-Kubi said.
The controversial legislation that allowed mining in forest reserves under certain conditions is expected to be repealed when Parliament resumes on October 15.
This law had permitted the issuance of mining licences in several forest reserves while safeguarding specific areas like biodiversity hotspots and cultural heritage sites.
Forest reserves such as Draw River, Neung South, Boin Tano, and Oda River were among those affected by this regulation.
Environmentalists and health experts have increasingly raised alarms about the irreversible harm caused by illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
In a related move, the Attorney General (AG) has instructed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to present Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462 for revocation in Parliament.
This decision comes in response to growing pressure from organised labour, which has urged the government to abolish the law due to the environmental damage linked togalamsey operations.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the concerns of stakeholders about the negative effects of mining in sensitive ecological areas.
The revocation of this Legislative Instrument is considered a pivotal step in the government’s broader strategy to tackle the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining.
Once the EPA submits the Instrument to Parliament, lawmakers will have the authority to repeal it, thereby prohibiting all mining activities in forest reserves.
According to the NDC, the party aims to create 1.7 million jobs between 2025 and 2029.
This initiative will absorb the estimated 300,000 individuals entering the workforce annually and reduce unemployment by 120,000 each year.
The NDC’s Employment and Jobs Creation committee presented these plans at a briefing in Accra.
Despite the significant employment gap and economic challenges expected to be inherited from the NPP administration by January 7, 2025, the NDC intends to meet these goals through a strategy based on five key pillars.
We call this strategy MAN-UP-C:
a. M – Modernise and revamp employment institutions and legislation focused on job creation;
b. A – “Aspire 24” programme to reorient employer and employee mindsets’;
c. N – “National Employment Trust” to mobilise resources for a concerted jobs push;
d. UP – “Levelling Up” programme to ensure inclusiveness in employment; and
e. C – Coordination through a high-level “National Employment Coordination Committee”
The Truth About Unemployment
During a media interaction on August 25, 2024, the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, reiterated his claim that the party has generated 2.3 million jobs over a seven-year period and that unemployment is on the decline. However, he provided no evidence to substantiate these assertions, likely because they are inaccurate.
In reality, unemployment and its associated challenges—poverty, hopelessness, and despair—are on the rise across the country. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service’s Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey reveals that 2.1 million Ghanaians, or 14.7% of the workforce, are currently unemployed.
This represents an increase of over one million jobless individuals since 2017. The unemployment rate has jumped from 8.3% in 2017 to 14.7% by 2023, which is the actual situation.
Additionally, many in employment cannot make ends meet. Of the 11.2 million people employed in 2023, an overwhelming 8.2 million (almost 70%) are in vulnerable work with low-paying jobs, no social protection, and poor working conditions.
They are trapped in a perennial cycle of poverty.
This is the category that we call “working poor”. This is also the truth.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addohas embarked on a two-day tour through the Savannah, Northern, and North-East Regions starting today, Monday, October 14, to engage with the residents and discuss the government’s progress in those areas.
Set to conclude on Tuesday, October 15, the tour will focus on showcasing the administration’s accomplishments and initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of citizens in these regions.
The visit highlights the government’s dedication to regional development and its ongoing support for local communities.
Aside from reviewing government achievements, President Akufo-Addo will also use the opportunity to campaign for his Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer for the upcoming elections.
The President’s involvement is expected to provide a significant boost to Bawumia’s campaign, as he rallies support from voters ahead of the December elections.
Several government officials and representatives from the presidency are accompanying the President, working together to strengthen the relationship between the government and the people. The team will emphasize the importance of community involvement in governance.
During the tour, President Akufo-Addo is expected to address pressing regional issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
By showcasing his administration’s accomplishments and plans for the future, he hopes to galvanise support for the NPP and reinforce the party’s commitment to the well-being of the people in the Savannah, Northern, and Northeast Regions.
Gospel singer Empress Gifty has opened up about her experience collaborating with Kuami Eugeneon the song “Watch Me,” which was written by the highlife musician.
The two worked together to shoot the music video on the same day.
During an interview on Adom FM’s Ofie Kwanso show, Empress Gifty praised Kuami Eugene’s work ethic, highlighting the efficiency and professionalism she witnessed during the project.
“It was a great experience for me… a real learning opportunity. Working with Kuami gave me new ideas, and for the first time, I shot a music video in just one day. This has never happened in my career.
Kuamiunderstands production very well. The equipment was ready, they gave me a call time of 9:30 am, and I was there, even accounting for traffic in the plan.
It was exhausting but totally worth it. Whatever you do, invest properly, and you’ll see the results,” she told the host, Jerry Justice.
Gospel artist Perez Musikhas revealed that a heartbreak he experienced several years ago led him to abandon his past ungodly lifestyle.
Speaking to Andy Dosty on Daybreak Hitz, the “Blema Tesaa” singer shared how, after indulging in various worldly behaviors, including smoking, he had a life-changing encounter that set him on a better path.
“The truth is [that] it started with a heartbreak. Andy, don’t laugh at me. At that point, it was very painful. I’ve never told the story before but I will say it without mentioning names. Somebody in the industry was hitting on my girlfriend back then.
I brought my girlfriend to visit me in the office, when I turned, he took the lady’s number. The next time they were talking. And this was somebody that was my ‘buddy buddy.’ That’s why I don’t really make friends,” he said.
He added that he went out one day with his friend and the guy gave his phone to Perez to make a call. Then Perez saw his girlfriend’s display photo pop up on his friend’s phone.
“I opened and said ‘yo’. I just gave the phone back to him and went home. I didn’t say anything to him. I just left and I went home,” he added.
Since giving his life to Christ, gospel musicianPerez Musik has experienced immense peace and joy in serving the Lord.
His spiritual transformation has also led to several accomplishments in the music industry, including winning the Songwriter of the Year and Best Male Vocal Performance awards at the 24th Ghana Music Awards.
He is known for hit songs such as “Majie Oyi,” “Kaafo,” “Walatse,” and “Hewale Lala,” among others.
Nigerian music sensation Davido recently gave fans a sneak peek into his twins’ first birthday celebration, while continuing to keep their identities under wraps.
The artist had earlier announced the milestone, which generated buzz and excitement among fans and fellow celebrities.
Through his Instagram stories, Davido shared snippets from the celebration, showcasing elegant balloon arrangements and a lively barbecue setup.
However, no images or videos of the twins were shared, preserving their anonymity.
This secrecy has fuelled fans’ curiosity, as the twins are the only children of Davido whose faces and names have yet to be publicly revealed.
The actor from Beast of No Nationrecognised that although platforms for global exposure of African content are valuable, genuine success depends on enhancing local capabilities and infrastructure.
During the Africa Cinema Summit (ACS) that commenced in Accra on Monday, October 7, Idris Elba expressed his commitment to strengthening Africa’s film industry.
He emphasised the need for a resilient sector capable of self-sustainability, complete with a distribution network that operates independently from Western platforms.
“The lifespan of African cinema is endless. We need to talk about distribution, we need to talk about how to grow the industry. For instance, filmmaking in Ghana is growing and we have seen fantastic stories and creative talents, not to mention the fantastic wealth of tourism.
“We have to win our developing market in Africa. Inasmuch as we want to appeal to the international market, we have to win our own first. When you watch American box-hit movies, usually, they make box offices in America before other countries,” he stated.
For him, the key is raising the profile through better infrastructure, distribution channels, and connecting filmmakers with audiences on the continent and globally.
“The future relies on us, our own distribution. We must fill the cinemas with our people first.
“So it’s important not to always focus internationally but to focus on home.
Also, we need to build films that get to the standard of the rest of the world. There’s no excuse because we all need to adhere to the democratisation of equipment, which means that we can all shoot withgood cameras and microphones.
“We have to be committed to quality, which means that we need education or to educate one another and make sure that the standard raises,” he added.
Idris Elba’s commitment to African cinema goes beyond words. Through his production companies, IE7 and The Akuna Group, Elba is investing in the continent’s creative potential, cultivating homegrown talent.
He noted that African storytellers must balance authenticity with international appeal, making their stories familiar and engaging for a global audience.
“Remember that when we tell a story, we want everyone to pay attention to it, so we have to tell stories that are familiar to the international market.
“And with the combination of all that, with distribution and other relevant elements, we can bolster our fortunes and set our foot further,” he said.
The second Africa Cinema Summit (ACS) kicked off on Monday, October 7, and concluded today, October 10, 2024.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, the 2024 summit broadened its focus, bringing together industry leaders and film enthusiasts from across the globe to discuss innovative approaches for advancing cinema in Africa.
A Legacy Awards ceremony took place on Wednesday, October 9, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, recognising notable individuals who have made impactful contributions to the development of the continent’s film industry.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who chairs the West Africa Elders Forum—a prominent diplomatic election observation group—has expressed confidence in theElectoral Commission’s (EC)ability to conduct the upcoming elections on December 7.
After leading a delegation from the forum in discussions with the EC, Mr. Jonathan noted that the Commission has effectively communicated its preparedness to facilitate a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
Additionally, a courtesy visit was made by the West Africa Election Observers Network, led by its chairman, Rev. James Lahai, who is also the National Coordinator for National Election Watch in Sierra Leone.
Mr. Jonathan mentioned that when the forum, consisting of former leaders from West African nations, raised concerns from various stakeholders, the EC provided thorough and satisfactory answers. He concluded that these responses reflect the EC’s readiness to ensure a peaceful and successful election on December 7, 2024.
“We had a robust discussion with the EC. We’ve seen the passion they have; the commitment they have for conducting successful elections, and what they have done so far, it is key.
“We had interactions with a number of people before coming here, and all the issues they raised, which we put across to her, she’s explained perfectly. And we have no iota of doubt about the competence and the willingness for the Commission to do what is right, come the December Elections,” he stated.
Mr. Jonathan urged other stakeholders and Ghanaians to uphold their reputation as a beacon of democracy, contributing to the pride of West Africa and the broader continent.
Rev. Lahai, on his part, noted that theElectoral Commission has shown a willingness to engage in discussions aimed at facilitating free, fair, and transparent elections.
He emphasised that their visit and discussions with the EC were productive, as the Commission addressed several critical concerns raised by various players involved in the upcoming elections.
Furthermore, Rev. Lahai stated that the West African Election Observers Network would continue its fact-finding efforts with other key stakeholders and had recently interacted with the media to share their findings from these engagements.
Later, the Chairperson of the EC, Jean Adukwei Mensa, spoke to the media about the importance of their collaboration with the forum.
“This evening we’ve had the opportunity to meet and interact with the West Africa Election Observers Network and the West Africa Elders Forum.”
“While we have shared with them our experiences and preparedness for the elections on December 7, 2024, they also shared with us some of their ideas, some of their experiences, and some of the best practices from their own countries,” she said.
Mrs Mensa statedthat the commission also informed the two groups about the election process and addressed concerns that they raised over the electoral process to ensure that the commission was on top of issues to deliver credible, free, and fair elections.
Renowned Ghanaian comedian Kingsley Kojo Kyeremateng, commonly known as Ajos, expressed that achieving fame in Ghana comes with significant challenges, particularly the loss of personal privacy.
During a conversation on Showbiz 360 with Giovani Caleb, Ajos shared that being a public figure often draws in various individuals, some of whom may have hidden agendas.
“Being popular can be problematic. It’s not really good. You end up attracting different kinds of people to you: people who want money from you, people who want to use you to be popular themselves, people who hate you.
“You can’t do anything for yourself; everything you do is all for public consumption. It’s like you are there for the masses,” he lamented,” Ajos explained.
He recounted a harrowing incident thirty years ago at Accra, where he found himself in an uncomfortable situation due to his fame.
“I had gone to Accra UTC on an errand some thirty years ago. There I felt the urgent need to visit the toilet. As soon as I got out of the car, someone came up to greet me and started asking me questions.
Meanwhile, I was struggling to hold it in.
“There was no public toilet around. But I couldn’t look around because there were a lot of people in the vicinity all looking at me and trying to talk to me.
“So, I had to do it inside my car, in the front seat and drive home. So being popular is not good at times,” he narrated.
Ajos further recounted an embarrassing moment inTakoradi market when traders soiled his blue shirt because he had played a role in a movie that they deemed “bad.”
He believes that these cameras will document every action and interaction of the soldiers during operations, thereby minimizing the risk of them being influenced or compromised by illegal miners, known as galamseyers.
While acknowledging the essential role of the military in addressing this issue, Dr. Asante Okyere emphasized that the potential for soldiers to be swayed cannot be overlooked.
“Fix body cams on the soldiers, so that everything will be recorded at a centralized point to prevent the soldiers from being compromised,” he said on the Big Issue on TV3 Friday, October 11.
Retired Colonel Festus Aboagye, a security expert, has criticized the government’s strategy of deploying military personnel to combat illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
He labeled this approach, along with the destruction of illegal mining equipment like chanfans, as a shortsighted solution to a pressing national security issue.
Aboagye questioned the long-term viability of relying on military force in addressing this challenge.
His remarks came in response to the recent actions taken under the government’s “Operation Halt” initiative, which saw soldiers destroy 18 chanfans, 10 industrial water pumping machines, and one excavator across various illegal mining sites in Ghana. This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to tackle the galamsey crisis.
In light of ongoing illegal mining activities, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has instructed the Minister of Defence to reinforce military presence to strengthen Operation Halt.
Additionally, the President has ordered the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, along with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to immediately suspend the enforcement of L.I. 2462, which regulates mining in forest reserves.
These actions follow a meeting with Organised Labour on October 8, during which the group threatened a nationwide strike on October 10 if the government did not take decisive measures against illegal mining. In a statement released on October 9, the Office of the Presidency outlined several steps to address the concerns raised by Organised Labour.
Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to face trial on federal charges related to sex trafficking and racketeering beginning May 5, following a ruling from a U.S. judge during a Thursday hearing.
After the proceedings in Manhattan federal court, the imprisoned hip-hop mogul blew kisses to his family present in the audience.
During the hearing, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian listened as Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, expressed concerns regarding alleged improper leaks about the case from federal agents, a claim that prosecutor Emily Johnson dismissed as unfounded.
Combs, 54, pleaded not guilty on September 17 to a three-count indictment accusing him of using his business empire, including his record label Bad Boy Entertainment, to transport women and male sex workers across state lines for recorded sexual performances known as “Freak Offs.”
This hearing was Combs’ third appearance in court since his arrest in September.
Dressed in Tan prison attire, Combs took a moment after the hearing to blow kisses to his family, which included his mother and children, as noted by defence attorney Anthony Ricco. He was then escorted out by U.S. Marshals.
Prosecutor Johnson informed the court that the trial’s prosecution phase is expected to last at least three weeks, while Agnifilo indicated that the defence’s case would take about one week. Combs has been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since his arrest.
On Thursday, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan denied his request for immediate release while he appeals a previous ruling that denied him bail. A panel of three judges from the circuit will review his appeal at a later date.
The rapper and producer is facing a possible life sentence, with a minimum of 15 years, if convicted on charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. Prosecutors allege that Combs lured women using drugs like ketamine and ecstasy, offering financial assistance, promises of career advancement, or romantic relationships.
They further claim that Combs used secret recordings of sexual encounters as “collateral” to ensure the women’s silence, occasionally brandishing weapons to intimidate victims and witnesses.
While the indictment does not accuse Combs of directly engaging in non-consensual sexual acts, it does allege that he physically assaulted some women. Agnifilo has argued that the sexual activities cited by prosecutors were consensual.
In a court filing made on Wednesday night, Agnifilo requested Judge Subramanian to implement a “gag order” to prevent prosecutors and federal agents from leaking evidence to the media, citing what he described as unlawful disclosures, including a videotape showing Combs hitting and dragging a woman in 2016.
During the hearing, Johnson contended that the defence’s request aimed to “exclude a damning piece of evidence.”
She stated that prosecutors are committed to upholding their responsibility not to reveal confidential information to the media, but emphasised that the defence should also adhere to the same standard.
Additionally, Johnson expressed concerns regarding Agnifilo’s remarks in a September interview with entertainment outlet TMZ, where he characterised the case as a “takedown of a successful black man.”
She said the comment amounted to an accusation that thegovernment was “engaging in a racist prosecution.” “Statements of this sort seriously risk a fair trial in this case,” Johnson said. Subramanian asked Agnifilo to propose an order that would govern public statements by both sides.
Cameroonian governmenthas prohibited public discourse concerning the health of President Paul Biya, labelling it a matter of national security.
This announcement follows ongoing efforts by authorities to counter rumours suggesting that the 91-year-old leader has passed away while abroad.
In a statement released on Thursday, Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji emphasised that the president represents the country’s highest institution and that any discussions regarding his health fall under national security concerns.
“All debate in the media about the health of the President of the Republic is consequently formally prohibited,” Atanga Nji said, warning that “offenders will have to face the rigour of the law.”
The minister directed regional governors to create monitoring units to record programmes and debates in the private and social media and identify authors of “tendentious comments.”
Social media has been flooded with discussions regarding the declining health of Cameroonian President Paul Biya, who has not been seen in public since his televised departure from Beijing on September 8, after attending the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Focac).
On Tuesday, the government reassured the public that the president is in excellent health and is expected to return to the country “in the next few days.”
Rene Emmanuel Sadi, the Minister of Communication and government spokesperson, stated, “The government of the republic firmly declares that these rumours are entirely unfounded and are a product of the imagination of those spreading them.”
He added that President Biya had taken a brief private trip to Europe following his participation in the Focac summit.
“However, he remains, as usual, and wherever he may be, attentive to the development of national life,” the minister added.
In another statement, Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, director of the President’s Cabinet, emphasised that “the Head of State is still fulfilling his duties in Geneva and has not left the city since returning from Beijing.”
Cameroonians are accustomed to the President’s “brief private stays in Europe,” as frequently claimed by his Cabinet, although the actual length of these absences often contradicts the official announcements.
However, the current absence, which has lasted nearly 40 days, has sparked heightened curiosity among the public.
At least one person has lost their life, and 12 others are trapped in an abandoned gold mine inColorado due to amalfunction of equipment, according to officials.
The trapped individuals are part of a group of tourists who are stranded near the base of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek.
“There is an elevator issue to resolve before they could be brought up,” Sheriff Jason Mike told reporters.
The mine has served as a popular tourist destination for more than 50 years.
Visitors typically embark on a one-hour tour that descends 1,000 feet (305 metres) down the shaft into the southwestern side of Pikes Peak, as detailed on the tour company’s website.
Emergency responders have successfully rescued 11 individuals, with at least four suffering from minor injuries.
According to Sheriff Mike, officials are maintaining constant communication with the 12 people who remain trapped.
“They have chairs, blankets, and water and are at a safe temperature,” he said. “This was due to an equipment malfunction. The mine did not collapse. ”
Colorado Governor Jared Polis said state resources had been allocated to assist with the rescue efforts.
“We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Governor Polis said.
According to the tour company’s website, entering the mine is comparable to riding in a lift.
Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, in collaboration with the Conference of Major Superiors of Religious and the Catholic Lay Faithful and Professionals, will host an Environmental PrayerProtest Walk Against Galamsey today, Friday, October 10.
This initiative aims to highlight the severe consequences of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, and urge the government to take immediate action on this pressing issue.
The primary objective of the protest is to advocate for a state of emergency regarding mining activities, especially in regions near water bodies, river buffers, and forest reserves.
Organizers are hoping to prompt the government to implement decisive measures to address the environmental damage caused by galamsey and promote sustainable development for future generations.
The protest will kick off at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Adabraka at 10:00 AM, with participants marching past notable landmarks in Accra, including Castle Road, Ridge Roundabout, Parliament House, and Oxford Street, before concluding at Christ the King Parish in Cantonments.
A petition will be submitted toPresident Akufo-Addoat the Jubilee House during the event, calling for swift action to combat the crisis.
The Catholic Church is inviting all Ghanaians—whether Catholic, Christian, Muslim, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, environmental activists, or the general public—to take part in this peaceful demonstration.
The organisers stress that the event is not solely a prayer gathering but also a call for immediate and effective actions to halt galamsey, safeguard the environment, and restore Ghana’s ecosystems.
Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo,has expressed his disappointment following the Black Stars’ goalless draw against Sudan in the qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The match, held at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday, marked the first leg of their doubleheader qualifier against the Falcons.
Although the Black Stars dominated possession and created several opportunities, they failed to convert any chances into goals, placing the four-time African champions in a difficult situation.
During the post-match press conference, the 45-year-old coach openly shared his frustration regarding the team’s performance.
“The chances were there today, but this is football,” he said.
“This result even pains more than the results against Niger and Angola because I think we deserve to win but I am disappointed,” he added.
Ghana’s next challenge will be against Libya in the return leg on Monday, October 14, at the Martyrs of February Stadium. A victory in this match is essential for enhancing their chances of qualifying for the tournament set to be held in Morocco.
Currently, theBlack Stars find themselves in third place in Group F, having accumulated only two points from three matches.
The highly anticipated Ghana Music Awards UK, initially scheduled for October 19, 2024, has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances.
The new date for the event is now set for Saturday, November 30, 2024, at The Meridian Grand in London (N18 3AF).
Organizers have reassured attendees that all previously purchased tickets will still be valid for the new date.
The Ghana Music Awards UK team extends their apologies for any inconvenience this may cause and expresses their gratitude for the public’s ongoing support.
They also encourage fans to stay updated as they gear up for a grand celebration of Ghanaian music on November 30.
Former UN Senior Governance Advisor, Prof. Baffuor Agyeman-Duah, has expressed concern over the recurring practice of replacing heads of the Electoral Commission (EC)whenever a new government takes office in Ghana. He believes this trend poses a serious threat to the nation’s democratic stability.
Citing examples like the removal of Charlotte Osei following the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) victory in the 2016 elections, Prof. Agyeman-Duah pointed out that this issue is gaining even more attention now.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), which opposed Osei’s dismissal at the time, has recently threatened to remove the current EC Chair if they win the 2024 elections.
Addressing the Ghana Speaks High-Level Forum 2024, organized by IDEG, the co-founder of the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) described this pattern as “dangerous.”
He explained that such frequent changes at the top of the EC undermine the integrity of the electoral system and weaken good governance.
Prof. Agyeman-Duah emphasized the importance of preserving continuity and impartiality within the Electoral Commission to maintain public trust in elections.
He urged Ghanaian political parties to abandon this practice and take inspiration from Western democracies, where transitions in EC leadership are less politicized and more conducive to ensuring the stability of the electoral process.
“The suspicion is always there, I don’t know why, but because they are appointed by the president, it’s difficult for the political parties to accept that this is a neutral body.
I hope we nip it in the bud, but this new culture of a president comes, doesn’t like the previous chairperson of the Electoral Commission, so I appointed my own.
“I don’t know who is going to win the elections, but supposeJohn Mahama becomes president again, my good friend Jean Mensa will not be there. They have already said that ‘when we come, we will also change you’.
“After all, it’s so easy to change, one petition from a person to the president, onwards to the chief justice, they constitute the panel, and you are gone. Is that not so? And that is dangerous.
“That is the system, and I’m saying we need to review the system. The president doesn’t have to appoint. In other countries and other democracies, electoral officers or bodies are appointed differently; we can learn.”
Government is set to inaugurate the first phase of Ghana’s inaugural youth digital hub on December 1, 2024, alongside the launch of a US$5 million Endowment Fund aimed at fostering digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
Though the hub is being established at the University of Ghana, it will be accessible to students and young people nationwide, with plans underway to construct similar hubs at three other universities: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), University of Cape Coast (UCC), and University for Development Studies (UDS).
Once completed, the facility will feature lecture halls, digital libraries, laboratories, a 2,200-seat auditorium, and hostel accommodations. These amenities will cater not only to Ghanaian students from distant regions but also to students from across Africa.
This initiative, known as the University of Ghana Digital Youth Hub, falls under the Ghana CARES ‘Obaatanpa’ programme, which focuses on COVID-19 recovery efforts. The hub is projected to be fully operational by 2025.
The project aims to create a dynamic ecosystem that will equip technology and digital entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and technical support to generate jobs and drive the growth of sustainable tech-based businesses in Ghana.
During a tour of the site on Tuesday, October 8, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia spoke to the Ghana News Agency, explaining that the hub is designed to empower the youth to capitalize on the opportunities brought by the fourth industrial revolution.
He emphasized that this initiative would help expand the country’s tech entrepreneurship sector and attract foreign investments from major companies, including Google and Microsoft.
“We want to train a million youth in digital skills, and it’s not a task that cannot be done. It is possible, and we are doing it, where the hub provides us good places to do a lot of training of the youths,” Dr Bawumia said.
Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, Finance Minister, pledged timely release of funds to ensure the completion of the project within schedule, saying, “as far as payment is concerned, we’re not delaying.”
Dr Amin Adam said the hub would be modelled like the Silicon Valley to attract high-tech firms into the country to make the tech and digital sectors thrive, and create more jobs, particularly for the youth.
“We’re also establishing a US$5m endowment fund to support the management of this hub. So, everything that’s required to make it a complete digital village in the provision of skills to the youth of Ghana will be done,” he said.
He noted that the hub, along with the three others to be built at KNUST, UCC, and UDS, would serve as a key infrastructure for equipping Ghanaian youth with digital skills, aligning with the one-million jobs initiative.
Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, added that the hub would enable students and tech enthusiasts to bring their ideas to life, fostering growth in Ghana’s digital economy.
She noted with through collaboration, cooperation, and coordination, the hub would unlock enormous potentials, adding that, “if the young people are provided with the digital knowledge today, they’ll provide global manpower in the future.”
Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana, pledged the school’s resolve to turn the hub into a centre of excellence to provide cutting-edge solutions to the country’s digitalisation challenges.
Election Watch Ghana has filed a Right to Information (RTI) request with theElectoral Commission (EC),seeking detailed information on the contracts related to the printing of ballot papers and notices of polls.
The request, made under the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), and backed by Article 21(f) of the 1992 Constitution, emphasises the public’s right to access such information.
The organisation is asking for specific details on the procurement process, including when the tender was issued, the names of the companies that submitted bids, and the criteria used to select the final contractors.
Election Watch Ghana argues that ensuring transparency in these matters is vital due to the importance of ballot printing in the electoral process.
This RTI request comes after the EC’s recent announcement on October 9, stating that the printing of ballot papers and notices of polls will commence soon, with notices scheduled for printing on October 11, followed by the ballots shortly after.
In addition to procurement details, the group has requested a full breakdown of the bidding process, the methods used to evaluate bids, and minutes from meetings with political parties about contractor selections.
Electoral Commission (EC) has addressed public concerns regarding the release of ballot statistics prior to the printing of ballot papers for the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
The EC has assured the public that the printing of ballot papers has not yet begun.
Starting Friday, October 11, 2024, the Commission will begin printing Notices of Poll for both the presidential and parliamentary elections.
However, the Commission clarified that providing ballot statistics to printing firms, political parties, and all candidates will take place before the actual printing of the ballots.
The EC, in a statement, reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, saying, “As has always been the case,the Commission will provide ballot statistics to the Candidates / Political Parties and all Printing Houses before the printing of ballot papers starts.
“Printing of ballot papers will only commence after ballot statistics have been provided to all Stakeholders. The Commission will not depart from this practice.
“We urge the Public and all Stakeholders to trust the Electoral Commission to deliver a transparent, credible, free, and fair election in December 2024.”
Pope Skinnyhas deeply lamented the ban on celebrity endorsements of alcoholic beverages.
Speaking to Nana Romeo on Accra 100.5 FM’s midmorning programme Ayekoo Ayekoo, the Hiplife star said the ban “doesn’t make sense.”.
The Food & Drugs Authority (FDA) issued a directive in 2015 banning popular figures in society from endorsing alcohol.
The Supreme Court subsequently upheld the ban when talent manager and music executive Darlington Osae challenged it at the apex court.
Pope Skinny argued the alcohol-dealing companies in recent years had been very helpful to the entertainment industry in Ghana, organising some of the biggest shows and giving lucrative endorsement deals to creative arts players, including musicians like himself.
In a country where “if you don’t have a hit song, you’ll go hungry,” and in an industry where “our social security contributions are not made,” the award-winning rapper and radio personality wondered why such a trend was ended.
He said all the above, made life difficult for local talents, adding it was why there is a current exodus of citizens, including musicians, to the West.
The musician revealed he had moved to the United States, where he worked as a truck driver.
“Since the leaders don’t really think about our welfare in this country, we’ll leave and go do jobs that may be below us – at least no one will see as doing it,” he bemoaned.
Ghana and Sudan are set to face off in a crucial AFCON qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday, with both sides desperate for a win.
Sudan, coached by former Black Stars player and coach Kwesi Appiah, currently hold the final automatic qualification spot and could potentially prevent Ghana from securing a place at the upcoming AFCON if the results favor them.
The match has been framed as a tactical showdown between Kwesi Appiah and Ghana’s coach, Otto Addo.
“Kwesi Appiah has nothing to prove. His coaching credentials are there for all to see. For me, nobody even knows I’m the assistant coach of Sudan.
“We just want to qualify, and that’s the aim. It’s just unfortunate we have to face Ghana. I wish this match didn’t happen,” he said.
Sudan have never beaten Ghana in Ghana and will be looking to change that in Thursday’s game.
A video ofGhana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Okraku, speaking to the Black Stars players before their match against Sudan has triggered reactions from netizens, including gospel singer and preacher Rev. Sonnie Badu.
Rev. Badu expressed his views on Okraku’s comments, describing the president’s outburst as “demoralising” for the players.
“With all due respect, I think Kurt’s outburst rather deflated the boys. Yes, I understand he is frustrated and wants the nation to see that he is in control.
However, football is a psychological game, and this could damage the boys rather than provide the intended motivation,” he said.
Sonnie Badu emphasised that the Black Stars need former captain Dede Ayew, believing his presence would help unite the team better.
“This is why Dede Ayew is still needed; he does well in motivating the boys, or a successful ex-player could be helpful.
If I were Kurt, all I would say is, ‘Hey guys, Kwesi APPIAH is an ex-player and ex-coach, and so a game like this has a lot of mixed emotions,” he stated.
He stated that the Jama sessions were an excellent form of bonding, questioning who currently leads those sessions now that Dede and Ofori are absent.
Background
Ghana is set to play Sudan on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
This match is critical for the Black Stars’ hopes of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON, as they have yet to secure a win in their first two games.
Ghanaian gospel artistBrother Sammyhas revealed that he helped a fellow gospel musician preserve her marriage by providing guidance on intimacy techniques.
In a recent interview on Agyenkwa TV, Brother Sammy shared that a female musician, whose name he chose not to disclose, contacted him during a critical period in her marriage.
He revealed that the singer’s husband was unhappy with her due to a lack of intimacy in their relationship.
“Recently, a very beautiful female gospel artiste called me and said that her husband wanted a divorce. So we spoke about it, and I got to know that her husband has become a womaniser.
I asked her what she was depriving him of, and we all got to know that it was oral sex.”
“So I advised her on how she could do it; she even got angry and decided not to speak to me because she claims that is the same mouth she used to sing.. until recently she came to me to teach her, so I asked her to go buy fan ice and I showed her,” he said.
Brother Sammy, who is currently out with a new single titled “Wahala,” further urged churches and religious leaders to allow the youth to dress freely to church.
“Some churches are forcing the youth to dress like old women and men. Right now if a young guy pierces, he is perceived as evil, and he is not even welcomed in church.
British-Sierra Leonean actor, Idris Elba, has called on African filmmakers to focus on creating high-quality local films.
During an interview with a Channel One TV reporter at the Africa Cinema Summit (ACS) in Accra, which commenced on October 7, 2024, Elba highlighted the significance of producing films that reflect Africa’s vibrant culture.
He noted that such films have the potential to connect with audiences around the world.
“We have to think about appeasing our local market, local, I don’t just mean Ghana, but I mean Nigeria, West Africa, South Africa because people love movies all over Africa.
“So, in as much as we want to appease the international market, we have to do it at home first. When you get an American movie hit, usually it’s a domesticated hit before it is a hit outside. Is it really important that we don’t focus on International but we focus on home,” he said
The actor also highlighted the need for filmmakers to invest in quality production equipment.
“We have to focus on quality, We can’t make films that do not keep to the standard of the rest of the world, there is no excuse for that .. democratization of equipment means we can all shoot on a nice camera, we can all shoot with good mics,… So we have to pay attention to quality,” he added
Africa Cinema Summit (ACS) is currently taking place from October 7 to October 10.
On the opening day of the event, Idris Elba was in attendance, alongsideGhana’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Arts, and Culture, Andrew Egypa Mercer, his Deputy Mark Okraku-Mantey, and various other prominent personalities.
Pope Skinny has spoken on the exodus of Ghanaian artistes to the West.
“There is nothing in this country to secure the future of musicians,” he bemoaned.
“This is why you’ll see creatives who are needy and asking for funds, especially in their old age. It’s not that they are irresponsible.”
“Our job doesn’t even come with SNNIT contributions,” he added.
“If you look at all these, you’ll advise yourself to leave and go pay your social security contributions in the West, where the scheme is not corrupt, and they’ll take care of you till you die,” Pope Skinny said.
The Hiplife artist shared his thoughts with Nana Romeo during an interview on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.
He expressed concern that the creative arts infrastructure in Ghana, or the absence of it, makes it financially challenging for musicians.
“If you don’t have a hit song, you will go hungry,” he said.
“Even if you save money, you’ll end up using the savings for paying music videos, and other logistics. Even if you get endorsement deals, how often will they come? Not everyone gets it too.”
Pope Skinny, here, strongly opposed the Food & Drugs Authority (FDA) ban on alcohol endorsement by celebrities, recently upheld by the Supreme Court.
“It doesn’t make sense to me,” he exclaimed, noting the immense financial benefits celebrities received in the days before the 2015 ban.
He mentioned some of the top local alcohol beverage brands, testifying of the helpful deals they gave to him and others, and the events they organised or sponsored, keeping the entertainment industry vibrant and productive.
The Hot Cake hitmaker emphasised: “Since the leaders don’t really think about our welfare in this country, we’ll leave and go do jobs that may be below us – at least no one will see as doing it.”
“I drive a big truck in America,” Pope Skinny revealed. “I cannot do it in Ghana because I will be mocked.”
Head coach of Ghana’s Black Stars, Otto Addo, has named Mohammed Kudus, the West Ham United forward, as the team’s captain for the upcoming 2025 African Cup of Nations Qualifiers match against Sudan.
The coach expressed confidence that Kudus’ exceptional performances for the national team, along with his leadership skills, will significantly contribute to the team’s efforts in the game against Sudan.
“Mohammed Kudus will captain the Black Stars against Sudan,” he said during the pre-match press conference on October 9, 2024.
The decision came in light of the absence of captain Andre Dede Ayew, who was called up to join the national squad, and his deputy, Thomas Partey, who is sidelined due to an injury.
Addo expressed confidence that the team is well-prepared and poised to secure three points in their upcoming match.
Ghana is set to face Sudan on October 10, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
This doubleheader against Sudan is crucial for the Black Stars as they aim to enhance their chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON, especially after their disappointing performance in the first two games.
Currently, Ghana holds the third spot in Group F of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers,with just one point from two matches.
People’s National Convention (PNC) has disclosed that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia reached out to comfort their flagbearer, Bernard Mornah, following his disqualification from the 2024 presidential elections.
PNC Chairman Samson Asake Awingobit noted that the party had expected sympathy from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), considering the political affiliations often linked with the PNC.
However, the anticipated support from NDC leaders, including former President John Mahama and prominent figures like Johnson Asiedu Nketia, Fifi Kwetey, and Omane Boamah, did not materialise.
During an appearance on Asempa FM on October 9, 2024, Awingobit expressed his astonishment at Dr. Bawumia’s gesture, as he had not expected the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer to reach out.
“Could you imagine that since the time we did our election, the filing of our nomination and the Electoral Commission disqualified us, people who believe that my candidate, Bernard Mornah, is an ally to the NDC… could you believe nobody from the NDC, not even President Mahama… called Bernard Mornah to sympathise with us?” onuaonline.com quoted him to have said.
Awingobit further stated that they had initially thought the NPP was responsible for their disqualification, suggesting a potential conspiracy involving the Electoral Commission (EC).
However, he acknowledged that the party was surprised when Dr. Bawumia reached out personally to Mornah to extend his condolences.
“You know who called? I had a cold when he [Bernard Mornah] told me. He said it was the New Patriotic Party presidential candidate, HisExcellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.Even I and my leader were saying that it was NPP that made Jean Mensa disqualify us.
“But the one you think is your enemy is not your enemy. Dr. Bawumia could pick up his phone and say, ‘My younger brother, it is well with you,’” Awingobit recounted.
The Wanderlust Ghana team, accompanied by a delegation of Ghanaians led by G10 companies, embarked on a thrilling tour of Dubai’s Red Sand Desert on October 9, 2024.
Renowned for their bold expeditions, the team proudly brought their Ghana-registered Tacoma vehicle, aiming to promote Ghanaian culture and tourism throughout their adventure.
However, the Tacoma ran into an unexpected challenge when it got stuck in the desert, and one of its tires was damaged by the rough terrain.
Speaking to blogger and journalist Andre Mustapha, also known as Attractive Mustapha, who is travelling with the Wanderlust Ghana crew, the team downplayed the incident, calling it a “minor problem.”
They explained that such hurdles are part of their larger mission to traverse 33 countries while showcasing Ghana’s resilience and rich cultural heritage.
Although the desert is typically crossed with Land Cruisers due to their reliability in extreme conditions, Wanderlust Ghana chose to use their own vehicles, symbolising the Ghanaian spirit of determination. After the mishap, the team continued their journey in a Land Cruiser, leaving the Tacoma temporarily behind in the desert.
This desert adventure followed an all-white yacht party hosted by Wanderlust Ghana and G10 Travel Companies at Dubai Harbour on October 8, 2024.
The event brought together Ghanaians from around the world, celebrating Ghanaian culture and promoting tourism.
The yacht party is one of the many highlights of Wanderlust Ghana’s 30,000-kilometre expedition across 33 countries, aimed at encouraging Ghanaians globally to explore the world while shining a light on the beauty of their homeland.
Next on Wanderlust Ghana’s journey is a major stop in South Africa, where they will collaborate with the Ghana Tourism Authority to launch the “December in GH” initiative, aimed at fostering tourism and cultural exchange.
Despite the challenges encountered, Wanderlust Ghanacontinues to embody the adventurous spirit of Ghana, pushing boundaries in their quest to connect Ghanaians and elevate the country’s image on the world stage.
Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Hassan Ayariga, has urged the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to use his influence to put an end to illegal mining, commonlyknown as galamsey, in the Ashanti Region.
Ayariga argued that Otumfuo’s authority in the region surpasses that of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, making the Asantehene well-placed to address the environmental destruction caused by galamsey.
His appeal comes amid growing concerns over the damage illegal mining is causing to water bodies, farmlands, and cocoa plantations.
In an interview on Oyerepa TV on October 9, 2024, Ayariga stressed that no mining company can operate in the Ashanti Region without the approval of the Asantehene, suggesting that a directive from Otumfuo could immediately halt illegal mining operations.
“There is only one person in Ghana who can stop illegal mining, and that person is the Asantehene, the people of Ashanti respect their King more than they respect the President because their King is for life. If the Asantehene says, stop galamsey, everything will stop,” oyerepaonline.com quoted him to have said.
He continued, “…Nobody, no mining company can mine in the Ashanti Region without the authority of Asantehene. That company dares not.
“So, if Asantehene wants to stop people from mining in Ashanti because they are destroying his water bodies, he should just make one call and tell his boys to stop them and they’ll stop because he’s more powerful to stop them than even the president of Ghana.
“The king and his people must protect their country because their children and grandchildren will suffer the consequences of this menace. If there’s too much destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and cocoa lands, the Asantehene should step in and make that call to stop galamsey.”
FormerPresident John Agyekum Kufuorhas stressed the importance of holding individuals accountable for breaking the law, asserting that anyone who does so must face the appropriate penalties.
While he acknowledged the right to protest, Kufuor warned that such actions must not descend into disorder.
He made these comments during an interview on Angel FM on Wednesday, October 10, 2024, as reported by 3news.com.
“If you attack a police officer or take away their car key, you must face the law or be punished. We can’t let them go scot-free”, he stated.
His remarks come in the wake of a recent three-day protest organized by Democracy Hub to highlight the negative effects of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, in the country.
During the protest, one of Democracy Hub’s leaders, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, removed the ignition keys from a police towing vehicle, explaining that his actions were aimed at preventing the truck from injuring protesters.
Since his arrest, he has been denied bail three times, with the courts citing legal reasons for the refusal.
President Akufo-Addo hasdirected the Attorney General to work with the Chief Justice to “increase the number of courts handling cases related to illegal mining” in a bid to enhance legal action against illegal mining.
The president stated that four dedicated courts had already been established to enhance the legal actions against galamsey.
Regarding other steps to fight the illicit small-scale mining trade, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also directed the Minister for Defence to deploy additional military forces to intensify the ongoing operation halt which aims to curb illegal mining activities.
The President also directed the Ministry of the Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation together with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to suspend with immediate effect the enforcement of L.I 2462 on mining in forest reserves.
This comes after a meeting with Organsied Labour on Tuesday, October 8 after the latter had announced they would declare a nationwide strike on October 10 if government fails to take action against illegal mining.
In a statement issued on October 9 by the Office of the Presidency, President Akufo-Addo outlined a number of measures to address concerns raised by Organised Labour.
These include a directive for the Defence Minister to deploy additional military forces to intensify ‘Operation Halt’ in curbing illegal mining activities. “The operation will be bolstered by the deployment of naval boats on polluted river bodies to ensure the immediate cessation of all mining activities, legal or illegal, in and around these water bodies,” the statement said.
The government has called on presidential candidates and political parties to sign a pledge committing to the fight against illegal mining.
Additionally, the president requested that Organised Labour halt its planned strike on October 10 and work alongside other stakeholders to ensure the effective battle against the galamsey crisis.
Following discussions, Organised Labour has agreed to suspend its strike, expressing satisfaction with the government’s outlined measures to address illegal mining in the country.
University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has announced an indefinite strike, starting on October 10, 2024, after members overwhelmingly voted to support a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting in environmentally sensitive areas.
With 77.95% of members from 15 branches backing the move, UTAG has taken a strong position against harmful mining practices that threaten the country’s natural resources.
In a referendum organised by UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC), 2,153 out of 2,762 members voted in favor of the strike, demanding an immediate stop to mining activities in forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.
Only 607 members voted against the strike, while two abstained. NEC referred to the result as “a clear mandate,” paving the way for UTAG’s indefinite industrial action across its branches.
In a statement released by the NEC, the association highlighted its members’ strong resolve to safeguard the environment.
“This decisive outcome reflects the unwavering commitment of UTAG members to protect our environment and livelihoods from the destructive impact of mining activities in ecologically sensitive areas such as forest reserves, farms, and water bodies,” the NEC said.
The referendum and subsequent strike come amid growing concerns over the impact of illegal mining activities, popularly known as “galamsey,” which have devastated forest reserves, rivers, and farmlands across the country.
UTAG members are calling for immediate government action, stressing that a nationwide ban on mining is essential to protect Ghana’s natural resources and safeguard the sustainability of local communities.
UTAG Activates Constitutional Mandate for Strike
After the referendum, the National Executive Council (NEC) convened an emergency meeting, during which it unanimously decided to invoke Article XIX, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution. This clause grants the council the authority to declare a strike in matters of national significance.
“In line with this constitutional mandate, NEC has unanimously declared an immediate INDEFINITE STRIKE from the 10th of October 2024 across all 15 UTAG branches,” the NEC declared.
UTAG is demanding that the government formally announce a nationwide ban on all mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies. Until the ban is instituted, all UTAG membershave been directed to comply with the strike order.
“This Is a Critical National Cause”
In their statement, UTAG emphasized the importance of the strike, calling it a “critical national cause.” The association called on all members to stand firm in their commitment to the environment.
“Thank you for your steadfast support in this critical national cause,” the NEC stated.
UTAG’s action intensifies pressure on the government, which is already facing widespread public dissatisfaction due to the environmental damage caused by illegal mining.
The association’s decision to strike highlights the increasing demand for decisive measures to combat the galamsey crisis.
Ghanaian gospel artist Isaiah Kwadwo Ampong, popularly known as‘Great Ampong’, has accused the anti-galamsey protesters of being swayed by outside influences to destabilise the current administration.
The Coalition of Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey organised the protest to draw attention to the environmental harm caused by illegal mining and to demand the release of about 53 Democracy Hub activists detained following a previous demonstration on September 22.
In response to these events, Ampong expressed scepticism about the protest’s timing in a video, noting that it occurred just two months before the December 7, 2024, elections.
But reacting to these developments, Ampong, in a video, has questioned the timing of the demonstration, which had taken place just two months before the upcoming December 7, 2024, elections.
“Why did they wait until two months before the elections to demonstrate? Why now? It suggests they have been paid,” he said.
He further stated, “If I were the IGP, I wouldn’t have granted them any permit for that demonstration.”
He also criticised the decision to hold the protest in Accra instead of in areas directly affected by galamsey activities.
Labelling the demonstration as “nonsense,” he argued that it was an attempt to discredit the government.
“If they were truly concerned, they should have gone to the galamsey sites. You want to demonstrate against galamsey, but you’re doing it at 37? It’s a pointless demonstration,” he added.
As a staunch supporter of the New Patriotic Party, Great Ampong also commented on the labour bodies’ plans to strike, suggesting they should focus their efforts elsewhere.
He criticised the current state of democracy in the country and claimed the galamsey issue is being exaggerated.
“People are turning democracy into gyimicracy. Someone prompted them to go on this demonstration to make the government unpopular,” he stated.
