Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie has ignited a social media frenzy with captivating photos presenting him as the “Messiah,” capturing widespread attention.
In these compelling visuals, Sarkodie is gracefully dressed in an all-white attire, adorned with the iconic crown of thorns, symbolizing his perceived role as the “Messiah” of Ghana’s music scene.
These images serve as promotional material for his latest track, ‘Otan,’ where he addresses the challenges encountered when expressing unfiltered truths in his music.
The symbolic portrayal of Sarkodie wearing the crown of thorns against a backdrop of a halo draws parallels to the trials of Jesus, offering a renewed sense of optimism to his followers.
This creative and thought-provoking marketing strategy has sparked lively discussions on various social platforms, with many commending Sarkodie for his innovative approach to promoting ‘Otan’ and initiating meaningful conversations.
Award-winning artist, KK Fosu, known for his timeless hits, has released his highly anticipated song, “Back to Sender,” marking his return to the music scene after a year-long break.
Teaming up with the legendary Appietus once again, who handled the production and mixing, the duo’s telepathic musical chemistry is set to create another memorable track with “Back to Sender.”
In an interview, KK Fosu shared that he intentionally took a break from releasing music last year to carefully craft this unique project for his fans.
Emphasizing his commitment to quality, KK Fosu expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the song, believing it was worth the wait.
“This music project marks my comeback to the music scene, and it’s just the beginning. I’ve lined up exciting collaborations with some of Ghana’s finest artists, and I’m optimistic that this year will be remarkable,” he declared.
In relation to the theme of his latest single, “Back to Sender,” KK Fosu clarified that the song is his response to critics who have consistently wished for his downfall. Characterizing it as a redemption anthem, he affirmed his steadfast dedication to his craft and expressed his determination to persist in creating music.
“This song sends a clear message to my fans and music enthusiasts that I remain steadfast in my pursuits, and I will keep delivering quality music,” KK Fosu asserted.
Ghanaian-owned watch brand, Warrior King Watches, has honored Afua Asantewaa Aduonum with a specially crafted timepiece, recognizing her outstanding contributions to promoting Ghana on the global stage.
In December 2023, Asantewaa undertook a Guinness World Record endeavor, organizing a singing marathon that spanned from midnight on December 24th to the conclusion on December 29th.
Taking to Facebook to express her gratitude after receiving the prestigious Ghanaian-made watch, Asantewaa remarked, “Time is essential, and every second counts. Warrior King gifted me this CUSTOMIZED WARRIOR KING HERITAGE timepiece to celebrate my record attempt for the longest singing marathon by an individual – Guinness World Records. Proudly made in Ghana, it bears bold inscriptions of Afua Asantewaa. Do you know what time it is?”
Former member of the well-known music group Wutah, Daniel Nyarko Morris, professionally known as Wutah Kobby has sparked controversy with his recent remarks advocating for casual relationships over marriage.
The 41-year-old musician expressed his belief that the institution of marriage has lost its essence and value, contributing to the increasing rates of divorce in contemporary society.
During an interview with Cape Coast’s Property FM, Wutah Kobby shared his candid opinion on relationship dynamics, suggesting that individuals should prioritize friendships and various levels of emotional connections instead of formalizing unions through marriage.
He argued that love goes beyond traditional constructs and should be nurtured internally, allowing individuals to freely express affection.
Wutah Kobby expanded on his viewpoint, emphasizing the perceived flaws of modern marriages.
He argued that the traditional concept of marriage, originally designed for mutual growth and support, has devolved into a dependency-driven dynamic that emotionally drains individuals.
Recognizing the sensitivity of his stance, Wutah Kobby acknowledged that his views might not align with prevailing societal norms regarding marriage.
Nevertheless, he remained steadfast in his belief that fostering genuine connections based on mutual understanding and emotional resonance should take precedence over conforming to traditional marital norms.
American rapper and CEO of Maybach Music, Rick Ross, has revealed his intentions to collaborate with Ghanaian musician Stonebwoy on an upcoming project.
In a video shared on his Instagram, Rick Ross expressed his eagerness to explore projects in Africa, emphasizing his keen interest in working with African artists. Notably, he singled out Stonebwoy and Diamond Platnumz as potential collaborators.
The mention of Stonebwoy by Rick Ross has sparked excitement among Ghanaian fans, leading them to express their enthusiasm on various social media platforms. Fans have praised Ross for recognizing Stonebwoy’s talent and impact in the music industry.
Here are some reactions from Ghanaians to the video:
“Forget everybody Stonebowy is far gone! You see the way RickRoss mentioned ein name with that energy!!!” — Qwabena Stunna
“My heart is filled with so much joy and happiness, anytime I see Stonebwoy win it makes me feel on top of the world. See the way Ross mentioned Stonebwoy’s name with vim and vigor.” — Nana Yaw Barima
Watch the video below:
American rapper @RickRoss announces on his IG stories he's going to do a project with African Artists and mention @Stonebwoy as one of the artist from Africa he will be working with on his new project. 🇬🇭🌍🚀 pic.twitter.com/DXAs4kja6n
Mawuena Benedictus, a 23-year-old English teacher hailing from Ghana, is gearing up for a Guinness World Record endeavor in pursuit of the longest reading marathon by an individual.
Set to unfold from March 24th to April 1st, Benedictus aims to engage in uninterrupted reading for an impressive 216 hours spanning nine consecutive days.
During an interview with Joy Prime TV, the official media sponsor of the event, Benedictus elucidated his motivation behind the marathon. He emphasized his aspiration to instill a culture of reading among students as the primary goal of this extraordinary undertaking.
“I’m pursuing this Guinness World Record attempt to promote reading habits among students and to encourage Ghanaian authors by showcasing the potential of the literary world,” he explained.
The current record for the longest marathon reading aloud is held by Rysbai Isakov (Kyrgyzstan), who achieved an impressive feat of 124 hours in Bursa, Turkey, from September 22nd to 27th, 2022.
The current record for the longest marathon reading aloud is held by Rysbai Isakov (Kyrgyzstan), who achieved an impressive feat of 124 hours in Bursa, Turkey, from September 22nd to 27th, 2022.
In the course of his Building Ghana tour in the Eastern Region, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, the leader of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2024 general elections, emphasized the established and unassailable nature of the motorcycle transportation industry (Okada).
He declared that the Okada business has entrenched itself and cannot be dismantled by any government.
Addressing a large gathering at the Agormanya Saint Martin’s Parish Hall, Mahama criticized the current government for its failure to address economic challenges and provide employment opportunities for the youth.
He asserted that no government has the power to eliminate the Okada business in the country.
Mahama maintained his unwavering stance on Okada riders, expressing his commitment to implement a comprehensive system, including registration, licensing, and regulation if given another term.
This approach aims to provide clear guidelines for Okada riders, ensuring the smooth conduct of their business without obstacles.
In addition to his focus on the Okada industry, Mahama highlighted the significant impact his upcoming administration plans to have on local farmers in the Krobo enclaves.
He announced the establishment of a farmer’s cooperative to address the difficulties faced by farmers when purchasing agricultural supplies like fertilizer and seeds.
“To support farmers, each district will be equipped with a farmer service centre,” he added.
Adding, “These centres will offer a range of essential equipment such as planters, ploughs, tractors, harrows, and more, ensuring that farmers receive the necessary support.”
Mr. John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), expressed optimism that the measures undertaken during his two-day Building Ghana campaign tour would contribute significantly to revitalizing the country’s agricultural sector and addressing the current economic challenges.
Embarking on the tour from January 30th to 31st, Mr. Mahama’s itinerary included a rendezvous at the Peduase Resort in the Akuapem South Constituency, where he engaged with the Regional Executive Committee and other important stakeholders. The former president, making a comeback bid for Ghana’s highest office, also visited Anum Palace, paid a courtesy call to Koforidua Zongo Chiefs, and participated in a durbar with transport unions and traders in Agormenya.
Additional highlights of the tour included addressing a town hall meeting in the New Juaben South Constituency and visiting the Asokore SDA Training College in the New Juaben North Constituency, where professionals and students presented their concerns about the economy.
Wednesday’s events saw Mr. Mahama attending a breakfast meeting with the clergy at the Koforidua Eastern Premier Hotel and paying respects to the Kukurantumi Chief. He also connected with local farmers at Ahumanhumasu Pentecost Church and engaged with the people at Nsutam Community Centre.
The tour concluded with a rally and roundtable discussion with party executives, underscoring Mr. Mahama’s strong dedication to grassroots perspectives and party unity.
In the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District of the Central Region, at Twifo Eduabeng, a 12-year-old girl was allegedly fondled and licked by a 43-year-old driver, who showed up at the Twifo Praso District Court.
Chief Inspector Joseph Kusah, the prosecution’s case presenter, stated that on January 3, 2024, at approximately 8 a.m., the accused, George Antwi, who practices herbal medicine, invited the victim to his home for medication due to skin conditions she had been battling.
Then, after tricking the victim into believing he was giving her medicine, he dragged her into his bedroom, stripped her nude, and forced her onto the bed.
Subsequently, the accused turned off the lights, covered the windows with curtains, loudly turned on the radio, and started caressing and licking the victim’s vagina. Antwi was unaware that the victim’s two younger sisters had crept into the room and seen what had happened. Antwi threatened to kill them and their parents if they told anyone in the community, hoping to silence them.
Chief Inspector Kusah informed the court that the kids told their parents about the threat despite it, and they filed a formal complaint with the police and got a medical form.
He claimed that Antwi was taken into custody and was facing charges of indecent assault and making threats of harm. The accused entered a not guilty plea, and the court, presided over by Maxwell Foli Kpodo, granted him bail in the amount of Gh¢5,000.00 with two sureties.
The suspect was further ordered by the court to stay inside the jurisdiction until the case was resolved.
Several leaders in the Eastern Region have expressed discontent with the unfulfilled promises of the NPP government, rejecting the “Breaking the 8” campaign during John Mahama’s two-day visit.
Nana Owiredu Agyarko, Chief of Ahomahomasu, dismissed the NPP’s “Breaking the 8” slogan and advocated for support for John Dramani Mahama’s pledge of a 24-hour economy.
The NPP’s “Breaking the 8” initiative aims to secure victory in the 2024 elections, challenging the traditional eight-year cycle of changing government in Ghana’s fourth republic.
Nana Owiredu Agyarko stated, “The breaking the 8 mantra will never come off today nor tomorrow. We have poured libation against it; it will not happen.”
In an unexpected move, the Krontihene of the Anum traditional area, Osahene Owusu Ntow IV, publicly apologized to NDC’s John Mahama for campaigning against him in the 2016 general election. He criticized the deceptive nature of promises made by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia regarding road infrastructure in the Akwamu area.
“A certain Chief in Akwamu endorsed President Mahama, claiming that all the chiefs in Anum support him. I went on the radio to debunk the claim that we all support him. I am that chief who did that but your Excellency, forgive me my sins,” he pleaded.
“I didn’t know His Excellency Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was lying to me. He deceived us into voting for him. He consequently graded our road but the road is in its worst condition because they have abandoned it. They say it was not in the budget. We don’t need anything, we don’t need the toilet, water all that we are asking is our roads,” he added.
He highlighted Gyakiti, Agyena, Akwamufie, and Anum-Boso, among other locations, as having deteriorating roads, urging President Mahama to address these issues if he assumes office in 2025.
Furthermore, the Chief of Akyem Kukurantumi, along with the Adontenhene of Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area, expressed support for John Dramani Mahama, acknowledging him as a seasoned candidate capable of revitalizing the economy and enhancing living standards.
He emphasized Mahama’s favorable track record, assuring him of victory in the upcoming elections.
John Mahama reassured the chiefs and their communities that the next NDC government would tackle road degradation in farming areas, revitalize the declining cocoa sector, reintroduce subsidized fertilizer, and prioritize value addition to agricultural produce to enhance farmers’ incomes.
The Tertiary Education Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU-GH) leadership at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology has issued a stern warning to any authority opposing the strike set to commence on Thursday, February 1, 2024.
Their demands align with those of the Senior Staff Association and the University Administrators, currently in their third week of striking against directives threatening their conditions of service.
The impending strike is expected to impact crucial frontline operations, including the management of sanitation, security, hospital facilities, fire stations, and other academic support services across public university campuses nationwide.
Already, facilities such as University Basic Schools have been closed as approximately ten thousand workers on the university labor front lay down their tools.
Charles Arthur, the local chairman of TEWU at KNUST, leading around 800 workers, affirmed their unwavering commitment to ensuring no university authority obstructs the industrial action.
He alleged that certain heads of faculty and university managers were covertly enlisting striking staff and other workers to perform the duties abandoned by the protesting workers.
“We are advising the university management to respect this strike. We don’t want any situation where any university management will use power. If any university management uses any power, we will disturb that power”.
Section 170 of the Labor Act clearly says that the employer may not temporarily replace labour when we are on lawful strike. We think that this is a law passed by the parliament of Ghana and it will be accordingly adhered to,” he cautioned.
In addition to demanding the withdrawal of a directive from the Ghana Technical Education Council to suspend overtime and extra duty allowances, TEWU-GH is pressing for the government to pay 9 months of their tier-two pensions to their fund managers.
Furthermore, TEWU-GH is urging the government to harmonize a vehicle maintenance allowance, which they argue is riddled with discriminatory bottlenecks.
According to the union, their conditions of service stipulate that each staff member should receive a vehicle maintenance allowance based on whether they use a car, motorbike, or bicycle. However, some university managers allegedly opt to grant motorbike allowances to staff members, even when they have provided documents proving ownership of a car.
Announcing the strike on the KNUST campus on behalf of the National Executive Council of TEWU-GH, the national chairman, Suleman Abdul Rahman, emphasized that the union is prepared to engage in negotiations for the benefit of its members’ conditions of service.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has indicated that since he assumed the role of Speaker and Chairman of the Parliamentary Service Board, he has prioritized the capacity building of Parliamentary staff.
According to him, he firmly believes that enhancing staff competencies is the surest way to effective service delivery and improved productivity.
The Rt Hon Speaker made this statement during the opening ceremony of a four–day professional development training program for Senior Officials of the Parliamentary Service of Ghana .
He indicated that the recent implementation of a new organogram for the Parliamentary Service has resulted in expanded functional areas and more challenging roles, particularly, for Senior Management Officials of the Parliamentary Service. In view of that, the Board has appointed some key officers to occupy some of the vacant positions while working assiduously to complete the rest of the appointment process.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin
According to him, the Service therefore expects that these Officers perform critical roles which emphases on implementation of strategic policies, coordination of operational functions, and quality control.
He added that “This professional training you are about to undergo is not only timely but vital in preparing you to effectively perform your new roles under the current organogram as well as navigate and lead through the implementation of our ambitious goals for the next five years. This is particularly crucial in the wake of the ongoing implementation of a robust performance management system to recognize and reward excellence, and foster a culture of accountability within the Parliamentary Service”.
The Speaker further stated that, he has initiated the process for the development a new 5-year Corporate Strategic Plan to replace the old one which ends this year.
According him, the new plan will provide strategic direction for Parliament for the next five years to align with the evolving goals and the dynamic legislative landscape.
“As we embark on the development of our new Corporate Strategic Plan, it is essential that each one of you, as leaders and key contributors to our legislative body, are equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive this vision forward. The plan’s success hinges on our collective ability to execute strategies effectively, manage challenges efficiently, and seize opportunities to innovate and improve “ he indicated.
The Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Cyril Oteng Nsiah in his welcome remarks attested to the capacity and competence of the facilities and their Institution and therefore urged Officers to actively participate, engage with the facilitators and peers, and embrace the learning journey with an open mind. According to him, “the insights and skills you will acquire are not just for your personal growth but are crucial for the collective advancement and efficacy of our Parliament”.
Topics to be covered during the training section includes but not limited to Emotional Intelligence, Resiliency, Effective Leadership, Proficiency in Negotiation and Presentation Skills.
The training programme is being organised by the Parliamentary Service in collaboration with the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) from the United States of America. The training programme, is yet another strategic step forward in our journey towards excellence in legislative governance.
Data released by P0rnhub.com in December revealed that users in the Philippines spend the longest time per visit on the website, averaging 11 minutes and 15 seconds.
Additionally, the Philippines secured the second-highest position in global traffic for P0rnhub.com, climbing three spots from the previous year’s fifth-place ranking.
Although specific numerical figures were not disclosed by P0rnhub, the site stated that the Philippines ranked behind the United States, which claimed the top position “by a landslide.”
In the global rankings of top traffic sources following the Philippines were France, Mexico, United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Italy, Canada, and Brazil, respectively.
Notably, the Philippines and Japan were the sole Asian countries among the top 20, with no African country making it into this ranking.
This legislation is imposing a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for internal combustion engine vehicles, with the aim of incentivizing the adoption of eco-friendly technology and green energy.
The ongoing move is anticipated to contribute to enhanced environmental management and the control of air pollution.
Under this Act, motorcycles and tricycles are currently required to pay an annual fee of GHC 75, while motor vehicles, buses, and coaches with engines up to 3000 cc must pay GHC 150 per annum. Motor vehicles, buses, and coaches exceeding 3000 cc, cargo trucks, and articulated trucks are currently subject to a GHC300 annual levy.
To facilitate seamless payment, individuals falling under the Emissions Levy mandate are currently instructed to register and pay exclusively on the ghana.gov platform.
Section 4(4) of Act 1112 is currently emphasizing that entities issuing road use certificates, including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and other testing centres, must currently verify proof of levy payment before issuing a road use certificate.
The GRA is currently urging all vehicle owners to comply with this directive and fulfill their obligations by promptly paying the Emissions Levy as outlined in Act 1112.
This ongoing initiative represents a significant step towards encouraging sustainable transportation practices and reducing the carbon footprint in Ghana.
In the Pramso suburb of Sweduru, Bosomtwe District, a 26-year-old nurse, Comfort Oppong, became the victim of a brutal stabbing by her ex-boyfriend, Kwasi Asuman, following a heated fight.
Asuman inflicted machete wounds on Oppong’s abdomen and arms, leading to significant blood loss. Promptly, she was rushed to the hospital by concerned neighbors.
The assailant, in a desperate act, attempted suicide and is currently fighting for his life, receiving treatment at the emergency unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
Vincent Kofi Frimpong, the victim’s father, recounted that he had instructed Mr. Asuman to leave his daughter’s residence, but the ex-boyfriend insisted on staying, culminating in the tragic and violent altercation.
“My daughter said he followed her everywhere she went. While on the phone with her, I could hear her screaming.
“I came to meet her at the emergency to see that she had been stabbed in the abdomen with a deep cut on her thighs.”
Comfort Oppong has since been discharged from the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
In the Pramso suburb of Sweduru, Bosomtwe District, a 26-year-old nurse, Comfort Oppong, became the victim of a brutal stabbing by her ex-boyfriend, Kwasi Asuman, following a heated fight.
Asuman inflicted machete wounds on Oppong’s abdomen and arms, leading to significant blood loss. Promptly, she was rushed to the hospital by concerned neighbors.
The assailant, in a desperate act, attempted suicide and is currently fighting for his life, receiving treatment at the emergency unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
Vincent Kofi Frimpong, the victim’s father, recounted that he had instructed Mr. Asuman to leave his daughter’s residence, but the ex-boyfriend insisted on staying, culminating in the tragic and violent altercation.
Renowned Gospel musician, Obaapa Christy, has dropped a captivating new song titled “It Will Change (Ebesesa).” The release, on Thursday, February 1, 2024, aims to inspire individuals to persevere through challenging situations.
In a statement, Obaapa Christy shared the motivation behind the song, emphasizing its role in providing hope during difficult times.
She acknowledged the hardships many are facing after the impact of Covid-19 and expressed confidence that the lyrics convey a powerful message reassuring listeners that God is with them and will change their situations.
Accompanying the song is a video shot by Skyweb, enhancing the overall experience for the audience.
Addressing the challenges faced by gospel musicians, Obaapa Christy urged Ghanaians not to judge but rather pray for them. She emphasized that, like everyone else, gospel musicians are human and prone to mistakes.
Her manager, Kwame Owusu, hinted at an upcoming album from the gospel sensation. Obaapa Christy, known for hits like “Metease,” “The Glory,” “Wagye Me,” “W’asue Me,” and “Bo Abrabo,” has previously won prestigious awards, including Best Female Vocal Performance, Gospel Artist of the Year, and Best Collaboration of the Year at the 2017 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
Precious Ifeanyi, a businesswoman and the wife of a pastor with Living Faith Church in Chikara, Nigeria’s Kogi State, experienced a joyous surprise at the National Hospital, Abuja, on Monday.
Married for 13 years, Ifeanyi and her husband, who faced challenges conceiving, welcomed a set of sextuplets, surpassing their initial expectation of quintuplets.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, Ifeanyi shared their journey, revealing that after years of struggles, the couple opted for In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).
The first-time mother delivered four girls and two boys at 30 weeks through Caesarean Section, initially thinking she was expecting quintuplets.
Ifeanyi emotionally recounted the difficulties they faced in their 13-year marriage, including failed attempts, medications, and two miscarriages.
Despite the disappointments, they turned to IVF and, in a remarkable turn of events, were blessed with the surprise arrival of sextuplets, emphasizing the importance of patience and faith in their journey to parenthood.
“God in His infinite mercy visited us, and here we are today, God has changed the story,” Ifeanyi exclaimed.
When thinking back on the pregnancy, Ifeanyi acknowledged that there were a number of difficulties starting in the second week of the pregnancy. The final two weeks prior to delivery were especially difficult, but she was grateful for the support from attending physician Dr. Bello, who recommended delaying a week, which allowed for the unexpected sixth baby to be discovered during the Caesarean section.
The sextuplet mother said she could hear the doctors while performing the CS saying “‘It’s like there is another one, and there was,’” Ifeanyi revealed.
Even as she celebrated the birth of the sextuplets, Ifeanyi realized she needed help. She disclosed that they were surprised by the number of children that would be born when they initially saw the results, and that as a result, the family now needs financial and other forms of support.
“I need assistance because when we saw the results for the first time, we did not know it would be this number, we know the number of children we asked God for but He gave us six,” Ifeanyi stated.
Ifeanyi and her husband are ecstatic about the unanticipated blessing despite the difficulties. The sextuplets are being closely watched by the medical staff, and the family is asking for help from the public to help them care for their priceless newborns.
Multifaceted creative, Kobi Rana, made a candid revelation during an interview on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo on February 1, 2024.
The discussion, hosted by Nana Romeo, took an intriguing turn as they delved into Kobi’s personal life.
Sporting a pink t-shirt, a color traditionally associated with girls and women, Kobi addressed the choice by revealing an inscription that read “Girl Talk.” Unfazed by societal norms, he emphasized his freedom to wear any color he chooses from Monday to Friday.
When questioned about his relationship status, particularly if he had a girlfriend, Kobi responded with a firm “No.” He dismissed speculations and resisted the idea of being baited for tabloid fodder.
Further probed on whether he had ever dated a woman, Kobi reiterated, “No, please.” Notably, no woman has been publicly identified as his girlfriend, a fact he defended by asserting his right to keep his romantic affairs private.
Drawing a parallel to Nana Romeo’s own discretion in handling his personal life, Kobi emphasized that he cannot be compelled to disclose details about his intimate relationships.
Currently, Kobi Rana is actively promoting his movie, “Girl Talk,” with a media tour leading up to its premiere on Valentine’s Day 2024.
In the aftermath, the unexpected death of Dr. Grace Boadu, an old video has emerged on social media in which she recounted a harrowing experience of being poisoned by her friends.
In the video, Dr. Grace Boadu detailed the incident, explaining that she was poisoned by her friends, leading to severe bleeding. The repercussions of the poisoning subjected her to agonizing pain, forcing her to use a sanitary pad for nearly three months to manage the situation.
Additionally, Dr. Grace Boadu shared that she had to rely on blood donations from her relatives to survive during this challenging period, as the poisoning had caused her to lose weight. The resurfaced video provides a glimpse into the difficulties she faced in the past, shedding light on the health struggles she endured.
“My friends poisoned me and I was bleeding seriously. I wore a pad for two to three months and you could imagine the pain I had to endure. They had to take blood from my relatives to feed me because I was growing lean. At the hospital, the nurses were reluctant to take care of me and I was surprised because I hadn’t wronged them in any way,” she said.
In addition to recounting the poisoning incident, the late Dr. Grace Boadu revealed that the friends responsible for poisoning her also took steps to tarnish her image among others. They did so, presuming she would not survive the ordeal.
Furthermore, Dr. Grace Boadu disclosed that even after her recovery, someone in her vicinity made another attempt to poison her. However, she managed to escape this potentially fatal situation by the grace of God. The revelation adds another layer to the challenges and threats she faced, both during and after her recovery.
“Could you believe that they were saying all sorts of things to tarnish my image because they thought I would die? It would shock you that even when I was almost recovering from the bleeding, somebody used a syringe to poison my water but thank God I didn’t drink it because I had an extra one already.”
The sorrowful incident of Dr. Grace Boadu’s demise unfolded on Monday, January 29, 2024, at her residence in Tantra Hills, Accra, as confirmed by the management.
In a press release issued by the clinic’s management, it was disclosed that Dr. Boadu had returned from a two-week health course in South Africa on Sunday, January 28. Regrettably, fate took a cruel turn the following day, leading to her untimely death.
Speculation has arisen concerning the circumstances of Dr. Grace Boadu’s death, as reports suggest that she passed away in the bathroom. This detail has captured the public’s attention, sparking inquiries into the potential causes of her sudden demise.
An official autopsy is pending to provide a conclusive determination of the cause of Dr. Grace Boadu’s unexpected death.
Numerous figures from the showbiz industry have expressed their grief over the loss of the acclaimed ‘celebrity doctor.’ Notable personalities such as the music group Keche, actor Kwaku Manu, and singer Mzbel have all shared their reactions to this heartbreaking development, underscoring the deep connection they shared with the departed.
Starting today, January 31, 2024, content creators and Stonebwoy fans may face limitations as they will no longer be able to use any songs under the Universal Music Group (UMG) label on TikTok.
This move comes as a result of the failure to reach a new deal between the two companies regarding the compensation TikTok should pay UMG for using its music.
UMG has decided to pull its entire song catalog from TikTok, citing three critical issues as the primary reasons:
Appropriate compensation for their artists and songwriters.
Protecting human artists from the harmful effects of AI.
Ensuring online safety for TikTok’s users.
DTS Africa reports that UMG alleges TikTok is not paying fair value for its music and is attempting to build a music-based business without adequately compensating artists and songwriters.
UMG accuses TikTok of attempting to bully and intimidate them into accepting an unfavorable deal, and of not respecting their copyright. UMG claims that TikTok contributes only about 1% to its total revenue, highlighting the minimal payment TikTok makes for its music.
TikTok, on the other hand, denies UMG’s allegations, expressing disappointment that UMG prioritizes its own financial gain over the interests of its artists and songwriters.
TikTok argues that it has artist-first agreements with every other label and publisher, and contends that UMG’s actions are not in the best interests of artists, songwriters, and fans. TikTok asserts that it serves as a free promotional and discovery platform for UMG’s talent, with a billion users supporting and enjoying music on the platform.
In summary, content creators will now have fewer music options for their videos due to UMG’s decision. They may miss out on viral trends and challenges based on UMG’s songs, potentially losing or seeing their favorite videos muted or deleted from TikTok.
Ghanaian internet sensation and tourism ambassador, Afua Asantewaa, recently shared intimate details about her personal life, revealing that she lost her virginity at the age of 22.
Speaking to Fifii Prat on Accra-based Kingdom 107.7 FM, Afua disclosed that she first crossed paths with her now-husband at the Daily Guide, a Ghanaian newspaper and website portal.
Despite initially seeking employment at the Daily Guide, she decided to leave with a guy instead, finding the job application process too stressful.
Afua Asantewaa mentioned that she and her now-husband were friends for four years before transitioning to marriage and starting a family together.
She expressed a preference for herhusband to provide more specific details about their journey, emphasizing that the particulars of that moment hold a cherished place in their history.
For further insights, you can watch the video below.
Social media users are actively participating in a wider discussion on gender roles, societal norms, and the acceptance of alternative relationship structures that has been sparked by the video.
The video, shared by Tinuke Vibes, quickly went viral, with a caption that posed the question, “What do you think about this?” The woman confidently declared her condition for marriage, stating, “You are not for me alone. You are for us. We, girls, are more than guys. You can marry me as the first, second, third, or fourth. I am considerate. You are not for me alone. You are for us. That is why you marry someone rich and capable.”
In her statement, Tinuke emphasized that she was not selfish and was willing to be considerate, and open to sharing her prospective husband with three more co-wives. The assertion that “men are more than men” challenged traditional views on monogamous relationships, leading to a spectrum of reactions from social media users.
Comments flooded the video’s comment section, reflecting a wide range of opinions. User omatana_cares expressed that “Polygamy is not for poor men who know this and know peace.” On the other hand, user imamghazaliy001 highlighted, “The essence of polygamy is not for men to marry many wives but for every woman to have a husband.”
One user, aadila1014, cautioned Tinuke Vibes about potential repercussions, commenting, “Five years from now, this video will surface again and haunt you. I pray when the time comes, make that man treat you equally so you won’t come back here to call him out.” Meanwhile, user Negraitta advocated for respecting diverse mindsets, stating, “Respectfully, we girls don’t have to change our mindset. You should continue your practices amongst yourselves. ❤️❤️ more power to you. May God never mix the man you want with mine, and may the man you want wish be far from me.”
Social media users are actively participating in a wider discussion on gender roles, societal norms, and the acceptance of alternative relationship structures that has been sparked by the video.
In a recent revelation last week, GhPage.com reported that Moesha Boduong had lost consciousness following a slip and a subsequent head injury against a wall.
Unfortunately, an update on her condition now confirms that she is currently battling for her life in an undisclosed hospital in Accra.
According to reports received, Moesha has been unable to move her body or speak for the past week. A close source, purportedly Moesha’s brother, added that the actress has also experienced memory loss, compounding the challenges she is facing.
Blogger Nkonkonsa shared this distressing information about Moesha’s deteriorating health on his Instagram page. Initial reports had given hope by suggesting that she was responding well to treatment.
The recent development, including the loss of functionality on the right side of her body and memory loss, has left her fans and loved ones deeply saddened. The situation is indeed grave, and concerns for Moesha‘s well-being are widespread.
The most recent health survey carried out by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has raised concerns as Ghana is now categorized among countries experiencing a rapid increase in HIV infections.
Alarming statistics from the 2022 national and sub-national HIV/AIDS estimates and projections reveal a total of 16,574 new HIV infections in the country. Among these, 10,927 cases were reported among females and 5,647 among males.
Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, the Director General of the Ghana Aids Commission, attributes this classification to a surge in new infections.
In an interview with JoyNews on January 31, Dr. Atuahene highlighted the contributing factors to the spread, pointing specifically to individuals involved in same-sex marriages—an activity considered illegal in Ghana. He emphasized that the criminalization of such activities has hindered affected individuals from seeking essential treatment.
“The people who contribute a significant amount of new infections in the country are criminalized; men who have sex with men, sex workers, people who inject drugs, their activities are criminal in the country,” Dr Atuahene emphasized. He highlighted the resultant underground nature of these high-risk groups, hindering their access to crucial HIV prevention and treatment services.
In the midst of the escalating HIV crisis, Dr. Atuahene unveiled plans to enlist influential figures in society to enhance awareness about HIV and AIDS.
He underscored a crucial gap, noting the absence of active participation by high-profile Ghanaians living with HIV in campaigns against stigma.
Dr. Atuahene suggested that involving business executives, celebrities, sports personalities, traditional authorities, and even priests could play a significant role in diminishing the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV.
Given the urgency of the situation, there is a pressing need for prompt and targeted measures to curb the increasing number of new HIV infections and prioritize the well-being of at-risk populations in Ghana.
A Ghanaian attorney, Kofi Amankwaa, and his son, Kofi Amankwaa Jnr, who are based in the United States of America, are collectively facing a potential fifteen years in prison for orchestrating an immigration fraud scheme in the U.S.
Operating a law firm in New York, the duo is accused of defrauding numerous clients over an extended period, as disclosed by prosecutors in the United States.
Allegedly exploiting their clients, a majority of whom were immigrants seeking legal status in the U.S., Kofi Amankwaa and his son Junior are now under scrutiny for their involvement in what the Department of Justice describes as a “large-scale immigration fraud scheme.”
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Kofi Amankwaa, an immigration attorney, and his son, Kofi Amankwaa, Jr., sought to make a mockery of the U.S. immigration system by conspiring to defraud the United States and commit immigration fraud.
“Amankwaa and his son allegedly exploited the Violence Against Women Act — a law that allows noncitizen victims of domestic abuse a path to lawful permanent residence status — for their own financial gain by falsely claiming that their clients were victims of domestic abuse.
“Thanks to the dedicated actions of our law enforcement partners and the career prosecutors of this Office, the defendants must now answer for these crimes.”
Added HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso said: “Kofi Amankwaa is charged with deceitful practices whereby he allegedly victimized clients who relied on his legal assistance with their immigration process. HSI is committed to protecting the applicants, petitioners, and requestors of U.S. citizenship who, unfortunately, are often at risk of falling for scams or fraud.
“HSI is thankful for the collaboration in this investigation with other Department of Homeland Security components, as well as other federal agencies, who continue to help us combat document and benefit fraud.”
New-York based Ghanaian immigration lawyer, Kofi Amankwaa, faces 15 years in jail for duping thousands of innocent immigrants with the promise of securing a green card for them.
Kofi Amankwaa didn’t operate his fraudulent schemes alone; he was assisted by his son, Kofi Amankwaa… pic.twitter.com/rj5HhXOnn5
Ghanaian contender for the longest singing marathon world record, Afua Asantewaa, has disclosed her payment of $750 to fast-track the verification process with Guinness World Records.
In an interview on Joy Prime, Asantewaa revealed that the typical verification duration is 12 weeks, leading her to expedite the process after two weeks of waiting.
The Sing-a-thon, a remarkable marathon singing event, held audiences captive as Asantewaa embarked on her vocal journey from December 24 to December 29, 2023, spanning an incredible 126 hours and 52 minutes.
Asantewaa’s unwavering dedication and endurance in overcoming vocal challenges captivated supporters globally. Beyond a personal achievement, the Sing-a-thon stands as a testament to human resilience.
The decision to accelerate the verification process emphasizes the significance of Asantewaa’s accomplishment and her commitment to transparency. While the financial investment expedites validation, it underscores the meticulousness associated with Guinness World Records.
With global attention on Asantewaa’s feat, the world eagerly anticipates the official recognition from Guinness World Records, solidifying her status in history as a singing sensation and symbol of perseverance.
In a recent interview with Giovani, Kumawood actor, movie producer, and singer Kwadwo Nkansah, widely known as Lilwin, shared insights into the financial commitment he allocates to his fleet of school buses each week.
Lilwin, who operates over ten school buses facilitating transportation for children to and from school, explained that his personal experience of not having the privilege to attend school at a younger age motivated him to establish a school.
Lilwin emphasized his commitment to making education accessible by keeping school fees affordable for parents. He detailed the weekly expenditure, citing the purchase of 3k to 4k worth of fuel for each bus.
With an increasing number of students, Lilwin expressed the need for additional buses to ensure the daily commute of the children to school.
Listen to a snippet of the interview for more details.
Ghanaian Reggae and Dancehall artist, Jupitar, contends that the Ghanaian media landscape shows favoritism towards musicians who perform in Twi, a predominant local language.
The singer believes that despite the talent of many musicians, they face marginalization due to their inability to sing in Twi.
Jupitar asserts that proficient rappers from other regions of Ghana struggle to receive airplay in the southern part of the country simply because their songs are in their native languages.
Expressing dissatisfaction with this situation, Jupitar highlighted the plight of talented musicians in the North, emphasizing that despite their vocal prowess, they struggle to garner even five streams when their music reaches Accra.
This revelation was revealed by the “Enemies” hitmaker during an appearance on “Uncut with D Black.”
“Most of our radio stations in our media space have chosen one particular language that they will promote. There is a very good rapper in the north who actually raps in Dagati or Sissala. But he can’t fluently speak Twi or pidgin…if you take that music to Accra. It won’t get up to two airplays,” he said.
Referring to Fancy Gadam’s track ‘Total Cheat,’ the acclaimed artist expressed the view that the song gained success on radio stations primarily because a significant portion of the composition was in Pidgin English.
In contrast, Jupitar pointed out that South African artist Focalistic and Nigerian musicians Phyno and Asake produce songs in their native languages, yet their music is embraced by audiences in Nigeria from diverse tribes.
Actress and media personality, Nana Ama McBrown, has revealed the dissolution of her marriage with estranged husband Maxwell Mensah, as shocking details of alleged infidelity emerge.
McBrown, who had never entertained the idea of divorce or separation from her husband, took to social media to share photos without her wedding ring. In a poignant message, she captured a snapshot of her ten fingers devoid of the symbol of matrimony.
Her caption added a poignant layer to the post, stating, “who you are is what you must always value.”
The recent trials in McBrown’s marriage reportedly revolve around Maxwell Mensah’s alleged involvement with top slay queen Serwaa Prikels.
Rumors suggest that Maxwell and Serwaa are taking their relationship to the next level, leading to a confrontation between McBrown and her husband.
The altercation allegedly escalated to physical violence, with McBrown slapping Maxwell, and in retaliation, he reportedly physically abused her before leaving the house.
Despite attempts to keep the matter private, the harsh reality has come to light, marking a significant turn in the tumultuous journey of Nana Ama McBrown’s marriage.
A young girl in her early twenties, Lovia has brought her father before Aunty Naa, accusing him of engaging in multiple instances of inappropriate relations with her.
Lovia alleges that her father not only engaged in such conduct at home but also took her to a guest house in Toase (Ashanti Region) for intimate encounters.
Lovia claims that her father has slept with her numerous times, and because she is exhausted, she has chosen to reveal the truth.
In the meantime, the father who was in the studio denied having slept with her daughter.
In the aftermath of the demise of Dr. Grace Boadu, her family has reportedly rejected the presence of her husband, Pastor Kingsley Gyanfi.
Despite Pastor Kingsley and his church elders attempting to visit the family, they were denied entry into the house.
According to reports, a family member of Dr. Grace intervened, preventing Pastor Kingsley and his group from entering the premises. The family did not provide an opportunity for greetings or interaction.
The family states that they are awaiting the arrival of Dr. Grace’s mother from abroad before making any decisions. A video circulating on social media captures the moment when Kingsley and his associates were left stranded and eventually had to return home.
Speculation is arising on social media, with some suggesting that the family’s reluctance to welcome Pastor Kingsley may be linked to concerns about Dr. Grace’s properties.
The vibrant music scene in Ghana showcases a diverse array of talent and innovation, drawing increasing global recognition. With the Grammy Awards embracing greater inclusivity, a number of Ghanaian artists have emerged as noteworthy contenders.
These artists, distinguished by their individual styles and notable achievements, are positioned to enhance Ghana’s visibility on the international music stage. Here, we highlight eight Ghanaian acts who could potentially vie for Grammy honors, along with a mention of their significant awards.
Sarkodie
Sarkodie, a trailblazer in African rap, has a trove of accolades, including multiple Ghana Music Awards and BET Awards for Best International Act: Africa.
His albums have received critical acclaim, solidifying his position as a top contender for international recognition. Sarkodie’s impressive array of awards underscores his potential for Grammy success.
Stonebwoy
Stonebwoy has made significant strides in the Afropop and dancehall genres. He has won several Ghana Music Awards, a BET Award for Best International Act: Africa, and received nominations from the MTV Europe Music Awards. Stonebwoy’s recognition in these prestigious awards highlights his potential for a Grammy nod.
Shatta Wale
Shatta Wale’s contributions to dancehall music have earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Ghana Music Awards. His collaboration with Beyoncé on “Already” further raised his international profile. Shatta Wale’s array of awards and global recognition make him a strong Grammy contender.
M.anifest
M.anifest’s unique sound has been recognized with several Ghana Music Awards. His album “Madina to the Universe” further cemented his status in the music industry. M.anifest’s consistent recognition in awards demonstrates his potential for Grammy acclaim.
Wiyaala
Wiyaala, known for her vibrant music and cultural authenticity, has been honored with multiple awards, including the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) for Most Promising Artiste in Africa. Her dedication to preserving traditional music while innovating makes her a unique presence and a potential Grammy contender.
King Promise
Several awards, including the Ghana Music Awards for Song of the Year and Highlife Song of the Year have marked King Promise’s rise in Ghanaian music. His album “As Promised” broke new ground, indicating his potential for international acclaim, including at the Grammys.
Fuse ODG
Fuse ODG, a key figure in popularizing Afrobeats globally, has won the MOBO Award for Best African Act and several Ghana Music Awards. His international collaborations and chart-topping hits underscore his potential for Grammy recognition.
Black Sherif
Black Sherif, an emerging sensation known for his distinctive fusion of genres, has swiftly garnered both widespread popularity and critical acclaim.
His compelling storytelling and emotive delivery have resonated extensively, solidifying his position as one of Ghana’s foremost new talents. With the potential for future accolades, including the coveted Grammy awards, Black Sherif stands out as a promising figure in the music scene.
In addition to Black Sherif, a lineup of eight accomplished Ghanaian artists is spearheading the effort to showcase the country’s rich musical heritage on the global stage. Each artist boasts an impressive array of awards and achievements, further enhancing Ghana’s presence in the international music scene. The diverse journeys and accolades of these musicians contribute to their collective potential for Grammy recognition, marking an exhilarating era for Ghanaian music.
If there are any artists we overlooked in compiling this list, we welcome your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section.
Popular Ghanaian socialite,Afia Schwarzenegger has hurled insults on Ashantis and their chiefs over their bad road.
She stated that despite the Ashanti people asserting that they have the most influential chief globally, this leader has not been able to engage with the government to address issues such as the poor state of their roads, the completion of airport construction, and other challenges affecting the community.
Thus, she is so ashamed to identify as an Ashanti because he has no regard for them anymore.
“I wouldn’t have stepped foot in the Ashanti region if not for the fact that my mother lives there because I’m embarrassed. My mother told me I’m an Ashanti but I refuse to be. I am from Dagomba. Fools! Animals!. What is in Kumasi? The place is full of dust and no one has been able to speak to the government to fix your deplorable roads, she said while fuming in a video on social media.
Meanwhile, Phases 1 and 2 of the Kumasi Airport Project are reportedly complete, and work is moving forward steadily.
Whether the Akufo-Addo-led NPP government will finish the project before it leaves office is still yet to be known.
In the pursuit of the elusive Ghana Teacher Prize, I immersed myself day and night in crafting ten essays that would epitomize the strength, diplomacy, and authenticity of the National Teaching Council (NTC).
Each day after school, I fervently rushed to my computer, pouring my heart into narrating the journey of my evolution as a teacher. What initially seemed like a daunting task gradually transformed into an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
As I revisited my story, reflecting on the profound impact I had made, a sense of astonishment overwhelmed me. The realization of my significant service to the beloved country sent shivers down my spine.
Days before the application deadline, a revelation struck—the imperative need for a meticulous review to ensure the success of my submission. The challenge nearly pushed me to the brink of surrender.
Despite the hurdles, I persevered and submitted my application.
Months passed with a constant anticipation for communication from the NTC. No formal word had arrived, leaving me in suspense.
Then, one early morning, as I prepared for school, a text message from the NTC appeared. Excitement surged as I eagerly opened the message, instructing me to join the launch of the Teacher Prize—an awaited acknowledgment of my dedication and a testament to the NTC’s commitment to recognizing outstanding educators.
At school, I would eagerly check every few seconds until I finally saw that the program had begun in full swing.
To my delight, I discovered that I was the third name on the list, and I could not contain my joy.
One significant challenge was gathering the necessary documents for the interview.
Some of the required materials dated back five years, and the most daunting aspect was retrieving certain documents from my previous school.
Despite the difficulty, I undertook the task. This involved obtaining my School Based Assessment, lesson notes, BECE results, and various other pieces of evidence showcasing my work.
A day was scheduled for the interview in Kumasi, and the journey from Accra to the Ashanti Regional capital proved both exhausting and emotionally charged.
My husband made a few stops along the way in an attempt to calm my nerves.
The following day, we arrived at the academy, and the sight of the interview team left me trembling with a mix of nerves and excitement.
They were not only warm but also poised, clearly aiming for the best candidates.
As I entered the interview space, a group of NTC ladies carried my seemingly overly expected teaching resources.
The sight of them and their diligence reminded me of the devoted service of the Galilean women in the holy book.
Throughout the process, they treated us with care and respect, providing all the necessary support.
My session involved teaching and responding to detailed questions about the teaching profession, making it one of the most intense days of my life.
After the interview, I shared with my husband how the chairperson closely scrutinized my impact brochure.
He suggested that we pass by the next day to give the book to the chairperson. I hesitated, expressing fear about going against the academy’s warning not to offer any form of appreciation to the team, not even a simple book, because I did not want to invite any trouble.
Soon, award ceremony at hand. We were provided with comfortable accommodation at Akromah Plaza in Takoradi.
The hotel not only offered restful sleep but also served appetizing meals. However, the anticipation of the contest outcome weighed heavily on my mind, causing me to lose my appetite.
During the two-day symposium, we had the chance to share our impact stories with the observers present. Interestingly, many people kept asking if I had any hint that I was going to win.
The answer was a resounding no. There were no signs, no hints, just a lingering suspense that added to the excitement of the moment.
It felt surreal, like a dream unfolding on October 5th when my name filled the airwaves – the Outstanding Teacher came from Greta D Shepherd 2.
What made this honour even more special was the absence of any financial obligation.
There were no secret meetings, no undisclosed demands for the award, reinforcing my belief that indeed, genuine organizations existed in Ghana.
My sincere appreciation goes to the NTC for upholding such integrity.
Many were curious about the packages promised by the NTC. To my delight, every commitment made by the NTC was promptly fulfilled, and I received everything promised within the shortest possible time. Yes, everything.
My journey to Singapore was an unforgettable experience, and with the promised one thousand exercise books and three-bedroom house fulfilled, there was no doubt that the NTC had elevated me to a higher level.
Just when I thought I had done well for myself, the NTC came along and made me a better woman.
I declare, with the heavens as my witness, that the Ghana Teacher Prize Award is truly free and authentic.
I stand as living proof, a beneficiary of this genuine recognition.
Grace, passion, and hard work are consistently the keys that unlock doors.
I encourage all fellow teachers to continually fall in love with the noble profession we have been called to.
One day, divine recognition will speak, and the world will sing our praise.
The National Teaching council is indeed building confidence and raising teaching standards.
We all know how a fresh set of long, stylish nails can boost our mood and add a dash of glam to our look. But, when you’re cradling and caring for your little one, those fashionable claws might need to take a backseat.
It can be dangerous for the baby
Foremost on the list of concerns is safety. Babies are delicate, and their skin is as tender as it gets. Long nails pose a risk of accidentally scratching their soft skin.
More alarmingly, there’s a real danger of harming sensitive areas, like their eyes. It only takes a momentary slip for a long nail to cause an eye injury, which could be serious. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your baby’s well-being.
It can carry germs
Next up, is hygiene. Those long, gorgeous nails can unfortunately harbor dirt and germs under them. When you’re a nursing mom, maintaining top-notch hygiene is crucial. You’re in constant contact with your baby, and it’s surprisingly easy for those hidden germs to transfer. Short nails are simpler to keep clean and safe, ensuring your baby is protected from unwanted bacteria.
It makes it more difficult to handle your baby
Handling a newborn is practically an art. It requires finesse and care, and long nails can complicate things like feeding, changing diapers, or dressing your baby. Shorter nails allow for a better grip and more precise movements, ensuring your baby’s comfort and safety during these daily routines.
It makes simple tasks difficult
Parenthood is all about practicality. Long nails can turn simple tasks into challenging feats. Whether it’s fastening tiny buttons or changing a nappy, longer nails can be a hindrance. Opting for shorter nails can make these everyday tasks more manageable, making life a bit smoother for both you and your baby.
Conclusion: Embracing the Practicality of Motherhood
While long nails are undoubtedly stylish, as a nursing mom, the benefits of keeping them short are significant. Remember, it’s about providing the best care for your little one, and sometimes, that means making small sacrifices in personal style.
There will be plenty of time for glamorous nails in the future, but for now, embracing the practicality of motherhood is the way to go.
Former Central Region Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Bernard Allotey Jacobs, has pleaded with Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta, to consider removing or scrapping off VAT on electricity.
He says people are finding it challenging to comprehend it implications and they are urging for its removal.
“This Vat they have places on electricity, we are pleading with Ken Ofori Atta, people don’t understand it anymore. So are pleading that he scraps it off,” Mr. Allotey said.
The government directed the imposition of VAT on electricity effective January 2024 to raise more revenue as part of its separate COVID-19 recovery and IMF programmes.
In a letter dated January 1, 2024, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, instructed the ECG and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO) to apply the VAT to residential customers exceeding the maximum consumption level for lifeline units.
Mali’s mines ministry reported a devastating incident last week, where more than 40 artisanal gold miners lost their lives after a collapsed shaft in southwest Mali.
The tragic event highlights the risks associated with artisanal mining, a prevalent activity in West Africa, driven by increased demand for metals and rising prices.
Artisanal miners often employ outdated and unregulated digging methods, leading to frequent and deadly accidents.
The ministry plans to investigate the incident, emphasizing the need for adherence to safety standards in artisanal mining.
In 2023, Mali’s artisanal mines contributed approximately six tons of gold, according to ministry data.
Understanding how to make a man happyis not as complex as it might seem.
Men, like anyone else, have specific needs and desires in a relationship, and meeting these can bring genuine happiness.
Yet, going the extra mile to enhance their joy can add a special spark to both your man’s life and the relationship.
Ten ways how to make a man happy
Some experts tell us that for love to flow freely between partners, there has to be an element of polarity. Polarity is the energy that creates attraction, chemistry, and, consequently, a relationship of openness and willingness to display vulnerability. And there are four things that a partner can do to get their man to become more “vulnerable” and open up more to her, allowing his love to flow freely. Four words: T (trust), A (admiration), A (appreciation), A (affection – physical).
Trust
Trust is about communicating with the partner that they are accepted for who they are. Making your partner feel that they are doing their best. Trusting your partner is the first answer to the question, “How to make a man happy?”
Admiration
What makes a man happy in a relationship? Admiration.
Admiration is about thinking that he is awesome and great for you and letting him constantly know in various ways. Admiration can go a long way regarding how to make a man happy.
Appreciation
Appreciation is about communicating how much you value his presence and contribution, however small because it makes them feel good about his contribution and, therefore, himself.
Appreciation for what they do and who they are is a very important way when it comes to how to make a man happy.
Physical affection
Physical affection is about men needing to experience affection from their partners, as an extension of the previous three points. When a partner displays affection to a man, it communicates to him that they value, appreciate, and like him. He’s essentially their knight in shining armor.
It ultimately comes down to the one thing women need to understand about men and what they value above all else – respect.
Respect
Figuring out how to keep your man happy starts with respect for him and yourself. This is a crucial point for everyone to understand. Respect is foundational to any healthy relationship.
But respect for another starts with respecting yourself. But here is where it gets interesting.
In heterosexual relationships, men thrive on respect, and women thrive on love. And a man is more willing to love a woman who respects him, and a woman is more willing to respect a man who loves her. But, this becomes an unhealthy cycle.
If you want him to show you more love, then it’s time to show him more respect, even when it’s difficult (within reason, of course). Respecting them is one of the most important ways to keep your man happy.
To understand more about the importance of respect in relationships, watch this video.
Let go
Nothing sends a man running for the hills faster than trying to control him. When you allow him his space, then you are showing him respect. And that respect is what makes you attractive and appealing to him.
If you want to keep your husband or boyfriend happy, ensure that you learn to let go of things. This does not mean you do not voice your problems in the relationship, but forgiving and letting go are equally important.
Do not speak ill about him
How to make a man happy? Do not speak ill about him, especially behind his back.
Speaking badly about him and to him, that is emasculating or degrading, will only blow up in your face. Making him feel bad about his actions or ideas lets him know you don’t respect him. Consequently, it reduces his attraction to you.
Never use sex as a weapon
Keeping a man happy is not too tough. There are just some things you shouldn’t do.
You should never tease your man and play with his sexual desires. Do not use your body or sex to manipulate the situation. You have incredible power over him using your looks because he is incredibly visual.
But, when you use yourself this way, he loses respect for you. He may not need to respect you to love you, but if he doesn’t respect you, he’ll most likely be looking for someone he can respect.
Be supportive
One of the key ways to ensure that your man is happy in the relationship is to support him through thick and thin. Men are natural providers, especially materially. If your husband or boyfriend is going through a rough patch in his career, job, or even with his family, just being there for him can make him happy.
Let him know that you are the anchor and rock in his life.
Tap into their love language
Loving people is not too tough. You need to know what they need and how to be loved.
If you can tap into your partner’s Love Language ®, it might make them happy. If their love language is physical touch, hug and kiss them often. Similarly, if their love language is words of affirmation, you should tell them good things now and then.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about making a man happy.
How can I always make my man feel happy?
Making someone happy may always be an over-ambitious project. While you can ensure they stay happy for the most part and you do not do anything that upsets them, feeling happy all the time is not humanly possible. We, as humans, go through various emotions, and happiness is just one of them.
However, following the tips mentioned above can ensure that your partner is happy in the relationship for the most part.
What makes a man feel most loved?
This may be subjective. What makes one person feel the most loved may not be something another person values too much. It is important to understand what your partner believes makes them feel loved.
However, basics like feeling respected, appreciated, and valued make almost everyone feel loved.
What are a man’s needs in a relationship?
A man or woman may have similar needs in a relationship. Everyone needs basic communication, trust, respect, and appreciation in a relationship.
However, men, specifically, like to be needed or wanted. They are natural providers and caretakers, and feeling like you need them to accomplish something – even if it is something as basic as getting stuff from the top shelf, can make them feel very loved and valued.
The takeaway
Happiness does not come from one part of life. Your relationship can only be one part of your life that brings you happiness. To be truly happy, one needs to make peace with themselves and be content with all parts of their life.
That being said, as a partner, you can make things easier by bringing them happiness. Truly loving your partner and being there for them can make them happy and help them get over most things that can worry them.
Ewaoluwa Olatunji, also known as Ewa Cole or the “Queen of Afro-Solk,” has achieved the record for the longest marathon singing Christmas songs.
Ewa accomplished this feat by singing continuously for a total of 31 hours from December 27 to December 28, making her the inaugural holder of this record.
The 29-year-old artist, hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, embraced this challenge with the aim of “promoting peace and unity” and instilling confidence in the younger generation.
Ewa’s dedication to this marathon singing session reflects her commitment to using music as a powerful tool for positive impact and inspiration.
“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat learned with deep regret of the announcement of the withdrawal of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS,” the AU said in a statement.
“(He) calls for combined efforts so that the irreplaceable unity of ECOWAS is preserved and African solidarity strengthened.”
“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat learned with deep regret of the announcement of the withdrawal of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS,” the AU said in a statement.
“(He) calls for combined efforts so that the irreplaceable unity of ECOWAS is preserved and African solidarity strengthened.”
Throughout her record attempt, Ewa sang classic Christmas songs such as “Deck the Halls”, “Frosty the Snowman”, “Silent Night” and numerous others. She was not allowed to repeat any song within a one-hour period.
In line with the protocols observed in other ‘longest marathon’ record attempts, Ewa Cole, during her remarkable singing feat, was allowed a five-minute rest break after every continuous hour of singing. These breaks could be accumulated if not taken immediately and served as the only moments for her to eat, rest, or attend to personal needs like using the bathroom.
Enduring prolonged hours of continuous singing, Ewa faced the inevitable challenges of fatigue, throat pain, and stomach problems. Her resilience and determination were put to the test, underscoring the physical and mental toll that such a demanding sing-athon can exact.
“The most challenging period for me was between the eighth and 12th hours,” she said.
“I had consumed a drink that caused mild food poisoning symptoms, forcing me to hold in flatulence to avoid public embarrassment. I was simultaneously experiencing profuse sweating, stomach, head, and throat aches, along with an urgent need to use the restroom.”
Although she overcame this hurdle, her throat pain then began to worsen, and after 20 hours it had “intensified to an unbearable level”.
“By the 20th hour, I was desperate for a miraculous reprieve,” Ewa admitted.
She considered giving up, but fortunately she was able to persevere through the pain and did not let it affect her ability to sing.
I never once stopped singing, even when I completely lost my voice. I will say that God was absolutely by my side all through.
Ewa, who works as a software engineer and also runs her own clothing brand, says she’s thrilled to have earned this Guinness World Records title and is “still buzzing with excitement”.
Having created her own music genre called “Afro-Solk”, stemmed from the fusion of Afro-pop, soul, and folk music, Ewa is excited to see where her singing career goes from here.
“It’s incredible to consider all the limitless possibilities that lie ahead,” she said.
“I can’t wait to explore and make the most of them!”
The Bank of Ghana‘s (BoG) new 21-story headquarters situated in Ridge, which is slated to be completed in September 2024, is currently at about 70 percent completion.
The project consists of three main blocks, namely the Tower, Urban and Amenities Blocks including basements, podium and ancillary facilities.
As of August 2023, the completed works on the project were: 13th Floor slab casting, Upper Roof slab casting, Upper Ground slab casting.
Internal blockwork in both Tower and Urban blocks, as well as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) first fixes, which were ongoing at various levels five months ago, are believed to be completed or nearing completion following a visit by the Independent Ghana to the site.
From the current progress, it is likely that the construction of the edifice will be completed by September as per the Central Bank’s projections.
Approval from Public Procurement Authority
The Central Bank then wrote to the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) on January 14, 2020, for approval to use the Restricted Tender Method. This procurement method was based on national security considerations.
The following firms, known to be operating in Ghana, were shortlisted: MAN Enterprise, WBHO Ghana Ltd, De Simone Ltd, Goldkey Properties Ltd., and Ronesans Construction.
Subsequently, tenders were opened on June 19, 2020, at 11am and were later evaluated between July 6 and 17, 2020.
After evaluation of tenders were received, the Entity Tender Committee (ETC) of the Bank at its meeting held on August 6, 2020 considered Tender Evaluation Panel’s recommendation and approved the award of contract for the project to Messrs Goldkey Properties Limited at the cost of $121,078,517.94.
The PPA later revised the initial approved estimated amount from USD81,882,640.00 to USD121,078,517.94.
Following this, the Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) on September 4, 2020, granted concurrent approval to the Bank to engage the recommended Tenderer, Messrs. Goldkey Properties Limited, at a contract price of USD121,078,517.94.
Commencement of work
The project site was formally handed over to the contractor in March 2021 for commencement of preliminary site works and designs.
Later on, there was a review of the design, prompting the ETC of the Bank at its meeting held on 19th December 2022 to revise the project cost of USD2,068.00/m2.
CTRC subsequently granted concurrent approval for the revised scope of works at cost of USD2,068.00/m2 on 17th January 2023.
The current state of the $250m new BOG headquarters#Tigpost Retire | Thomas Partey | Nurses | Cecilia Dapaah | Maurice Ampaw | Dr. Bawumia #ChangeIsComing | Davido | Black Stars pic.twitter.com/fGuHRzgsaT
Member of Parliament for Mpraeso Constituency in the Eastern Region, Davis Ansah Opoku, has ignited a social media storm for his defense of Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) boss, Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Adu Owusu-Amoah, regarding an age controversy.
The dispute emerged during a recent Public Accounts Committee (PAC) session, where the age of the GRA boss became a focal point.
Opoku staunchly defended Owusu-Amoah, asserting that his age was a personal matter and not relevant to PAC’s mandate or public interest.
Opoku’s position, supported by Deputy Finance Minister Abena Osei Asare, has triggered a wave of criticism on social media. Users have uncovered a tweet from Opoku dating back to 2015 that read,”Charlotte is 42 and will retire at age 70.”
The revelation has triggered accusations of hypocrisy, as Davis Ansah Opoku now supports the right to privacy for GRA boss Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Adu Owusu-Amoah regarding his age. This stance appears inconsistent, given Opoku’s past public disclosure of the age of then-Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Charlotte Osei.
Social media users are quick to point out this perceived double standard, questioning Opoku’s integrity and approach to matters of public interest. In an unexpected turn, Charlotte Osei responded to Opoku’s old tweet with laughter emojis and commented “Ajeiiiii” to a post calling out the MP.
As the online community buzzes with discussions, Opoku finds himself in the midst of a digital storm, facing scrutiny for his past statements and his present defense of the GRA boss’s privacy. The evolving situation raises pertinent questions about transparency, consistency, and the role of public figures in matters of accountability.
9 years ago, MP of Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, @OPKlive, was seen heckling the former Electoral Commissioner, Charlotte Osei, @char_osei about her age.
Yesterday, the same man won’t allow a public officer to be questioned about his age. Posterity and vindication, Chale! pic.twitter.com/RsbORDwVNb
Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has firmly dismissed calls for the disbandment of his organization, asserting that such appeals lack merit and fail to substantiate claims of the outfit’s inefficiency.
Critics, including economist Dr. Michael Ayamga Adongo, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), arguing that its functions overlap with those of the Attorney General and other investigative bodies.
Despite criticisms, former legislator Inusah Fusieni defends the OSP, emphasizing its crucial role in the fight against corruption.
Agyebeng, during a roundtable discussion, countered the calls for dissolution, stating that a thorough evaluation revealed the lack of grounds and supporting evidence for such demands.
He said: “We hear calls, a lot of the time from very high places, that the OSP should be scrapped and that it serves no useful purpose. On another score, there have been and there are attempts to discredit the office and its principal officers unfairly and unjustly, alongside formidable resistance and pushback.”
“A careful examination of the reasons for the calls to do away with the OSP suggests that they were made without reference to the actual performance of the office in the six years of existence and that the calls are borne out of many of the teething challenges confronting the establishment of the office,” he added.
The departing Chief of Defense Staff, Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, has expressed appreciation to Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for the unprecedented farewell guard of honour held at the Police headquarters on Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
During his farewell speech, Vice Admiral Seth Amoama thanked the heads of various security agencies and emphasized the historic nature of the guard of honour, urging continued collaboration among the security services for the sake of peace and security in Ghana.
Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, in his welcome address, expressed deep gratitude for Vice Admiral Seth Amoama’s more than four decades of unwavering commitment to Ghana.
The IGP highlighted the collaborative spirit that characterized the relationship between the Ghana Police Service and the Military under Vice Admiral Amoama’s leadership.
In a series of heartfelt tributes, heads of other security services, including the Director-General of Prisons, Mr. Isaac Kofi Egyir; Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Julius Kuunuor; Comptroller General of Immigration, Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi; and the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Alhaji Seidu Iddrisu Iddisah, took turns praising Vice Admiral Seth Amoama for his exemplary dedication and collaborative support.
As a unified gesture, the security chiefs presented a citation of honor to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, commending his outstanding leadership qualities and the strong bond fostered among the various security agencies under his tenure.
Former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) flag bearer, John Dramani Mahama, has signaled his disapproval of LGBTQ.
This statement represents Mahama’s most explicit stance on the issue since it emerged as a topic of national discourse.
Despite being recognized for his moderate political positions during his tenure as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017, Mahama’s stance on LGBTQ rights has remained ambiguous until now.
“By faith as a member of the Assemblies of God church, I am against LGBTQ,” Mahama declared, emphasizing the importance of aligning his political views with his religious beliefs.
Mahama’s statement emerges amid escalating tensions surrounding LGBTQ rights in Ghanaian society. The subject has ignited fervent discussions across political, religious, and social spheres, pitting advocates and adversaries against each other on matters pertaining to human rights, morality, and tradition.
Dear @JDMahama, this is bold. This is decisive. This is leadership. Standing for what one believes in. I have never doubted your position on the matter, especially when you were attacked as President in Scotland in 2016 over your position on homosexuality. Posterity would… pic.twitter.com/TQjHRMuVqJ
Ghanaian media personality Berla Mundi made a graceful return to work from her honeymoon, taking on the role of hosting the 2024 African Prosperity Champions Awards and Presidential Gala Dinner at the luxurious Kempinski Hotel.
For the high-profile event, the morning show host donned a custom-made gown by Ezekiel Yartel, the CEO of Yartel GH.
Berla Mundi looked stunning in a long-sleeve black suede gown featuring a glittering rhinestone neckline, elegantly showcasing her exquisite wedding ring.
Completing her look with a long frontal hairstyle and flawless makeup, the event host exuded glamour throughout the evening.
The presence of dignitaries added to the grandeur of the occasion, with the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and the First Lady, H.E. Rebecca Akuffo Addo, gracing the event.
Former President of Ghana, H.E. John Agyekum Kuffuor, Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, H.E. Wamkele Mene, President of Ethiopia, H.E. Sahle-Work Zewde, Tiemoko Meyliet Koné, Vice President of Ivory Coast, Secretary General of the Commonwealth, the Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, and other notable dignitaries also attended.
In addition to her hosting duties, Berla Mundi is set to host this year’s African Nominees Brunch, an official side event of the 66th Grammy Awards scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on February 5, 2024.
Ghanaian musicians aspiring to collaborate with American rapper Meek Mill now have a golden opportunity, as the rapper has announced reduced rates for his verses.
Meek Mill recently disclosed that his standard fee for a verse is $250,000, but he is open to negotiations, considering a reduced rate of $150,000 in certain situations.
Given the rapper’s affection for Ghana, it’s highly likely that collaborations from the country would be deemed the right circumstances.
On X, Meek shared, “Every time I do a verse I charge 250k and up. If you got 150k on sight and I like the song, we can swap it outtt!!!!”
Undoubtedly, Ghana boasts exceptional talents like Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, King Promise, and others, renowned for creating remarkable music.
Given their prowess, it’s highly likely that Meek Mill would readily accept $150,000 or potentially even less for the chance to craft a global hit with these talented artists.
Comparing this to a 2022 Complex roundup on rapper feature prices, Meek Mill’s fee aligns with industry standards.
Notably, it surpasses J. Cole’s unique approach, as the latter clarified that he doesn’t charge for a verse. Cole emphatically debunked rumors of a $2,000-per-word rate during a podcast appearance.
“I’m not charging [anyone] for the verse. I’m doing this because I’m inspired to do it.“
Meek Mill further clarified that his worth goes beyond chart rankings. Beyond delivering a verse, collaborating artists also tap into his vast audience, which boasts tens of millions of actively engaged followers.
He underscored the collaborative opportunity as a means to amplify an artist’s reach, offering valuable data, fanbase expansion opportunities, and extensive marketing benefits.
A seasoned Ghanaian musician and actor, Tumi Ebow Ansa, has ignited controversy by asserting his authorship of the renowned track ‘Welcome Home,’ famously performed by the Ghanaian-British Afro-rock ensemble, the Osibisa band.
In an exclusive interview on the ‘If More, Let’s Divide’ podcast with Mutombo the Poet, Tumi revealed that the Osibisa band failed to acknowledge him as the original composer of not only ‘Welcome Home’ but also other notable tracks like ‘Woyaya,’ ‘Oranges,’ and ‘The Dawn.’
Sharing his thoughts on the collaboration with the Osibisa band, Tumi expressed mixed sentiments, stating, “ou know, Osibisa is an area that I really don’t feel comfortable. Because I was in an experience that I had never seen before.”
Reflecting on his initial encounter with the band, Tumi emphasized the unexpected journey to Tunisia, where his compositions underwent hurried rehearsals for auditions.
Before joining forces with Osibisa, Tumi had already founded his band, the Afro Deity, highlighting his established musical expertise.
He expressed regret over being unaware of the band’s intentions to claim his work, stating, “I didn’t know they had this ulterior mind to credit themselves with my music. But I was not able to tell.”
Tumi expressed his disappointment at the lack of acknowledgment and stressed the psychological and financial costs of having his works mistakenly credited to someone else.
“But to be asked about them, that hurts…hurts so much. How can you take somebody’s music and credit it to yourself, make so money with it and you don’t give a damn?” he said.
Tumi Ebow Ansa’s disclosures cast shadows on Osibisa band’s legacy, prompting concerns regarding artistic integrity and industry acknowledgment.
Ayisi has unveiled the rationale behind his decision to rebrand himself from AI to Ayisi.
Citing concerns over online visibility and identity, he expressed the need to navigate away from the ambiguity associated with the abbreviation “AI.”
In an interview on Joy Prime, he acknowledged the prevalence of the term “AI” and the overwhelming number of search results it generates, often overshadowing his presence on various social media platforms.
Emphasizing the significance of maintaining a distinct online identity, Ayisi highlighted the importance of fostering a deeper connection with his audience and amplifying his brand recognition.
Ayisi pointed out the challenges posed by the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its association with his former moniker, prompting him to initiate the name change.
He underscored the impact of this decision on facilitating smoother accessibility for his fans and preventing potential mix-ups in locating his content.
Six students, three teachers and a bus driver have been kidnapped by unknown gunmen in south-western Nigeria.
In a statement posted online, the Ekiti state government said the victims were attacked in the town of Emure while returning from a road trip on Monday night.
State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji said the authorities are determined “to get the children and their teachers rescued”, meanwhile residents are being urged to remain and share any information that could help the search.
It is not yet clear who is responsible or whether they have demanded a ransom.
Kidnapping for ransom has worsened in Nigeria in recent years with armed gangs targeting road travellers, students as well as residents in rural and urban areas across the country.
Earlier on Monday, about 50 civil society organisations issued a joint call on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency regarding the security situation.
They said over 1,800 people had been abducted since the president assumed office in May last year.
Tumi expressed his disappointment at the lack of acknowledgment and stressed the psychological and financial costs of having his works mistakenly credited to someone else.
Ghanaian afrobeats sensation Kelvyn Boy has challenged existing stereotypes associated with smokers, dispelling the misconception that they are inherently disorderly and disruptive.
Speaking to his audience on X platform, Kelvyn Boy highlighted a noteworthy reality, stating that some of the wealthiest and impeccably groomed individuals he has encountered are avid smokers.
He encouraged his followers to discard such preconceived notions, emphasizing the importance of reevaluating deeply ingrained beliefs.
“Smokers are not dirty and rowdy… maybe then but I know some of the richest and cleanest of humans who are heavy smokers. Dead that thought today,” Kelvyn Boy said.
Sharing insights into his personal journey, Kelvyn Boy disclosed that he was once a smoker but has since opted to abstain, advising against the use of drugs.
He underscored the significance of making informed choices and steering clear of substance abuse.
The market is still highly liquid despite the recent change in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) policy in November 2023, which has led the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to announce additional efforts to absorb excess liquidity.
In a press conference held after the 116th MPC meeting, Dr. Ernest Addison, the governor of the Bank of Ghana, acknowledged the current liquidity situation while highlighting the difficulties banks face in locating appropriate investment opportunities.
“It appears there’s still quite an amount of liquidity in the market. This is one of the issues we extensively discussed last week. The auctions are oversubscribed and the banks have mobilised a lot of deposits, making them very liquid. However, there aren’t many avenues for investing their resources so they are putting it back into the auction. The economic conditions haven’t improved enough to reduce the risk associated with lending, prompting them to invest in short-term government bills instead,” Dr. Addison stated.
In a bid to tackle surplus liquidity and contribute to the ongoing battle against inflation, the central bank opted for a unified and increased Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) at 15 percent, covering both local and foreign currency accounts. However, concerns are surfacing about potential spikes in government borrowing costs within the domestic Treasury market due to this reserve hike.
When questioned about the impact of the CRR change, Dr. Addison humorously quipped, “The CRR policy change likely had an impact, but there’s still a significant amount of liquidity.”
The new CRR directive, effective since November 30, 2023, aimed to extract around GH¢11 billion in cedi liquidity from the interbank market while injecting approximately US$750 million. This strategic move was designed to bolster liquidity conditions in the FX market, potentially dampening the depreciation pace during the festive season.
In 2023, base money growth witnessed a significant slowdown, registering at 29.2 percent by December, compared to the lofty 57.5 percent in December 2022. This deceleration was attributed to robust sterilization efforts by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and effective liquidity management operations.
Likewise, interest rates in the money market embarked on a downward journey, with the 91-day and 182-day Treasury bill rates descending to 29.49 percent and 31.70 percent, respectively, in December 2023. The 364-day instrument’s rate also took a dip to 32.97 percent during the same period.
During its November 2023 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, the central bank underscored the slowdown in monetary aggregates’ growth, revealing a year-on-year contraction of 2.6 percent in reserve money during October 2023. The move to unify the CRR for both cedi and foreign currency deposits was a strategic maneuver to navigate excess structural liquidity conditions and bolster the disinflation process.
Shifting the spotlight to the banking sector’s performance, end-of-year data showcased a ballet of stability, liquidity, and profitability. Recovering from the setbacks of 2022, the sector demonstrated increased net interest income and fees & commissions.
Despite facing challenges from the Domestic Debt Restructuring and macroeconomic headwinds in 2022, the banking sector exhibited resilience. Capital adequacy levels remained comfortably above the minimum regulatory requirement, and most banks maintained excess liquidity. However, the industry grappled with a rise in the Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio, reaching 18.3 percent in October 2023, reflecting elevated credit risk associated with the lingering effects of the 2022 macroeconomic crisis.
On the lending front, the private sector witnessed sluggish credit expansion, growing at 10.7 percent in December 2023, a stark contrast to the 31.8 percent seen in December 2022, signaling increased risk aversion among banks. The financial landscape, it seems, is engaging in a complex dance of strategy and adaptation.
