The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, declared that no individual, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, possesses the authority to prevent parliament from passing the anti-LGBTQ+ bill currently under consideration.
Bagbin emphasized that once the bill is passed, President Akufo-Addo would be obligated to sign it into law.
These remarks were made during the parliamentary session on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, as the house deliberated on the draft Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
Bagbin further stated that individuals opposed to the bill would have the option to challenge it in court once it becomes law.
“It is not the case, constitutionally, that when a person finds problems with the laws we pass that have concerns that are constitutional in nature, it is not only that, they could be legal, not constitutional, they may be even matters of policy. But the president is not indulge with veto power.
“He only makes comments and resubmits it to the house, If the house insists that what we have passed is the right thing. The president has no option than to assent to it,” he said.
The speaker added, “Ghanaians are after that permitted to take it to any court for interpretation. So, we are not bound to be looking over our shoulder because the present is there to make comments”.
Franklin Cudjoe, the president and founder of IMANI Africa, has criticized the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) for its recent donation of 200 motorbikes to the Ghana Police Service.
Cudjoe, in a post on X dated December 13, 2023, pointed out that despite being indebted to independent power producers, the ECG is engaging in donations.
He argued that the funds used for purchasing the motorbikes could have been better utilized to provide additional streetlights, contributing to crime prevention efforts.
“When your debtor goes spraying cash like an Arabian prince at a naming ceremony… But on a serious note, crime would have been reduced drastically &society benefited more if part of such funds were channelled to providing adequate streetlights in crime prone areas & our motorway,” he wrote.
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) faced significant scrutiny recently when Sunon Asogli Power Limited, an independent power producer, declined an offer to restructure the arrears owed by the ECG.
In response, Sunon Asogli Power threatened to shut down operations, raising concerns about a potential return to the days of intermittent power supply, commonly known as ‘dumsor.’
Under pressure, the ECG responded by making a partial payment of $30 million towards its $60 million debt to Sunon Asogli, committing to settle the remaining arrears within a two-week timeframe.
About ECG’s donation to the Ghana Police:
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has made a generous donation of 200 motorbikes to the Ghana Police Service. The police received these motorbikes on Monday, December 11, 2023, with the aim of bolstering their operations nationwide.
Leading the ECG management in this philanthropic gesture, Board Chairman Keli Gadzekpo expressed the company’s commitment to supporting the police. He announced plans to donate additional vehicles to further enhance police services and efficiency, with a pledge of an extra 800 motorbikes to be delivered in batches.
The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, who accepted the donation on behalf of the police, conveyed his gratitude to the ECG management for their generous contribution.
Former Di Asa champion, Dee Baby, recently disclosed that she is currently single in an interview with ZionFelix.
During the conversation, she also shared her preferences for the type of man she desires in her life.
After being unattached for several months, Dee Baby is cautious about choosing a partner. She emphasized that she is not interested in a casual relationship where the man only seeks intimacy without commitment.
Even if a potential partner has such intentions, she expects honesty and open communication about it.
Expressing her openness to a friends-with-benefits arrangement, Dee Baby clarified that she is amenable to it as long as the man is willing to provide financial support.
Taking into account age considerations, the former Di Asa winner emphasized the importance of finding a responsible man.
Dee Baby stressed her disinterest in having a stingy partner, asserting that her professional status should not hinder her from enjoying thoughtful gestures from her significant other.
George Quaye, the Ghanaian playwright and CEO of Image Bureau, has voiced his apprehensions regarding the reluctance of Ghanaians to endorse and promote their own artistic endeavors.
Mr. Quaye made these remarks while reflecting on Ghana’s lost chance to make a global impact with Hiplife.
Expressing disappointment, he bemoaned the missed opportunity for Ghanaians to unite in support of their own musical genre.
He underscored the need for a collective effort to propel Hiplife onto the international stage, emphasizing the importance of local support for the growth and recognition of Ghanaian cultural expressions.
“I think when it comes to Hiplife, we missed a very important opportunity to conquer the world. When we had hiplife, we did what Ghanaians usually do – we bickered and argued around it … Someone asked me why I was promoting plays by Roverman and I asked, why can’t we win together?” he stated during a discussion on the Daybreak Hitz, on December 13
During his submissions, George Quaye alluded to Nigerians, who are known for actively promoting their craft in Ghana but refusing to take in foreign productions.
He emphasized that Ghanaians must break the habit of accepting any “foreign products.”
“When we staged The Gods Are Not to Blame, one Nigerian walked up to me to say what we did was even better than the original script, but then it would be an insult to Nigerians if we were to stage there.
“We never, as a people, know how to jealously guard and nurture something that is ours. We do not decide to push what is ours out there, but we are in a hurry to accept what comes from outside,” he stated.
Jamaican reggae sensation Hezron is set to take center stage at the BHIM Concert on December 22, 2023, marking the 7th annual musical extravaganza hosted by Stonebwoy at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Hezron is eager to captivate the audience with his extensive catalog of music, promising a memorable performance at the event scheduled to kick off at 7 pm. The concert aims to create a rich cultural experience, fostering unity between African and Caribbean roots, and features a diverse lineup of musicians from both the African continent and the diaspora.
Established by the internationally acclaimed Ghanaian artist Stonebwoy, the BHIM Concert has become a cornerstone of Ghana’s music scene, consistently drawing large and enthusiastic crowds over the years.
The event has featured notable artists such as Busy Signal, Beenie Man, Morgan Heritage, among others.
In addition to his BHIM Concert appearance, Hezron is set to grace multiple stages during his stay in Ghana until January 2024.
Anticipated performances include notable events like Kojo Antwi’s on December 24, Okyeame Kwame’s Hiplife Party on December 25, and the Westside Carnival in Takoradi on December 26, 2023.
Hezron’s busy schedule in Ghana is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Goodies Music, Lynnex Ventures, 3G Media Group, and Gorjiors International.
Okyeame Kwame, the renowned Ghanaian musician, has provided insights into why Hiplife, as a genre, struggles to resonate with younger artists in Ghana.
He attributes this phenomenon to the perceived failure of older Hiplife artists to make the genre appealing or a source of pride.
During an interview on Hitz FM on December 13, Okyeame Kwame pointed out that the current generation of artists is exploring different genres to effectively convey their narratives.
Additionally, he raised questions about whether these emerging artists take pride in the musical legacy established by their predecessors.
“People choose their heroes and follow their pattern because they are proud of what they have done. Are these young people proud of what we have done? Every generation has its own story to tell, and these young people are telling their story by calling what they are doing what they want to call it,” he stated.
Okyeame Kwame went on to voice her disappointment at the passing of once-popular genres like Twi-pop, Azonto, and so forth.
According to him, the lack of a specific platform for marketing these kinds of music is the reason for their decline.
“Where are all the Hiplife-esque genres that were created after Hiplife? The Al-Qaeda, Twipop, HipDia and HipCont? Where are they? All of them have left, because there is no platform for them.
“That is why two of the genres that young artistes choose today are hip-hop and Afrobeats because you can find them on the major streaming platforms. Otherwise, you would have to put your music at alternative music or world music, which is a maze of music,” he said.
Ghanaian actor John Dumelo has generated buzz on social media by unveiling the trailer for his upcoming Netflix film, ‘Blood Vessel.’
In the movie, Dumelo takes on the challenging role of a navy commander, a character that resonated well with fans who praised his convincing portrayal.
The trailer highlighted Dumelo’s commitment to upholding the law, showcasing a pivotal scene where his character rejects a bribe from illegal smugglers, aligning with his reputation for integrity.
The comments section of Dumelo’s Instagram post was flooded with praise for his stellar performance and the engaging storyline of the film.
Comment by some social media users below:
dkbghana said:
When you know u have a political career ahead, you choose non-corruptible roles
amg_maxisway reacted:
Baddest , john no Dey joke , business minded , Ayawaso all the way no corrupt leader here , fun’s of john gather here
gh_cooler said:
Ahh but this Oyibo man paa, is that how to bribe an officer in such a venture. Dey play
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has entered discussions concerning Ghana’s lithium mining agreement with Barari DV Ghana Limited.
He expressed concern over Ghana’s practice of exchanging mineral resources solely for royalties, deeming it unfortunate.
Ablakwa highlighted that Western countries accumulate wealth by not selling their mineral resources outright but rather by hiring people to work on them and compensating them accordingly.
“The reason why all the countries of the Middle East are filthy rich is because the oil that they have belongs to them. All the companies that go there to explore for oil are contracted, they are paid, and they don’t own the oil. We have lithium in large quantities and we are allowing someone to come and take it and go and sell it. You will not bring 100 percent of the money to Ghana; you give us 10 percent,” he said during a meeting with the Christian Council on Tuesday, December 12.
According to Ablakwa, it is foolish to distribute the mineral resources at the current rate without providing the necessary returns.
“I have raised this matter some 20 years or more years ago, this question about having minerals and letting somebody come and give you royalty as if , it is the stupidity of the stupidities. The lithium agreement is not in the interest of Ghana, that is my view and if you agree with me, then let us make a statement in support of the IEA to say that we do not think that this agreement is in the interest of Ghana,” he added.
In Abia State, located in Nigeria‘s South-east, a 31-year-old man named Chukwuma Onoh reportedly took his own life after losing N2.5 million in an online bet.
To fund his unsuccessful wager, the deceased had borrowed N1.2 million from friends and combined it with his N1.3 million.
On the same day, Mr. Onoh had reached out to a man believed to be his boss via WhatsApp, seeking assistance to settle a debt of N1.2 million resulting from the unsuccessful bet.
“The only option is to end my life as I cannot live with the shame. I have turned into a gambler because of no job, and right now, I am at a point if I don’t redeem my debt, I might kill myself to pay the debt,” he reportedly wrote in a viral WhatsApp message.
On social media, a screenshot of the victim and the man’s WhatsApp conversation has been making the rounds.
“I used N2,500,000 to place a bet and N1.2 m is not my own and if I don’t pay up today. I will be dead by the time you read this message. As I type this message, I am where I want to buy a sniper,” he added.
The man informed Mr. Onoh that he was currently unable to provide any financial assistance and advised the victim to request a “hold on” from his creditors in order to pay the debts in installments.
How it started
On Tuesday, Mr Onoh dropped a suicide note on his Facebook page which prompted some of his friends to reach out to him.
“Today is my last day on earth! I (am) going to meet my maker,” he wrote without giving a reason.
The victim thanked some of his associates and friends.
“My spirit is with you all,” he told them.
Mr Onoh, who hailed from Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, was said to have taken the sniper less than two hours after making the post on his Facebook page.
He was later rushed to Madonna Hospital Umuahia by friends but was declared dead by the doctors on duty.
‘Heartbroken’
One of his friends, Chisom Ibeako, confirmed the development to PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday morning.
Ms Ibeako said she was “heartbroken” watching the victim die at the hospital despite efforts by doctors and nurses to resuscitate him.
She expressed surprise that the victim would take his own life despite often helping to mobilise funds for various persons in difficulty, regretting that she did not see the victim’s Facebook post on time.
“Some of his friends who saw his post first thought it was a joke until he did a live video. But as at the time, he has already taken the sniper,” she said.
Ms Ibeako said the victim was not opening up to his friends and based on her interactions with the late Onoh’s sisters at the hospital, the victim did not also open up to his family members.
She said although the victim was a university graduate, he was not engaged in any known job.
Sniper, a highly toxic pesticide, has lately been used by some Nigerians to commit suicide.
When contacted on Wednesday morning, the police spokesperson in Abia State, Maureen Chinaka, said she was attending a conference outside the state and would not be able to comment on the incident at the moment.
“I will get back to you later,” said Ms Chinaka, an assistant superintendent of police.
Outrage
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation from Nigerians on social media.
While some expressed dismay at the victim’s decision to take his own life due to a lost bet, others directed their anger towards the perceived lack of awareness from his friends about his financial struggles.
Onyebuchi Ezeleonu, a Facebook user, went so far as to accuse the victim of being motivated by greed.
“Whatever that had made you take this path, doesn’t worth it. You allowed the pressure of the world and that of fake life to overwhelm you,” Mr Ezeleonu wrote.
Abuchi Obika, another Facebook user, expressed anger that the victim’s friends did not notice that he was in trouble before now.
“Those who are talking trash claimed to be closer to him, yet don’t know what he was passing through,” he stated.
Comedian Foster Romanus thinks he has contributed significantly to the expansion and advancement of Ghana’s comedy scene.
Before his comrade showed up and altered the story, he claimed, the entertainment industry’s subsector was written off as nonexistent.
Foster Romanus stated that the comedy industry was revitalized by his and his colleagues’ unwavering push and determination in an interview with Amelley Djosu on Joy Prime’s Celeb Biz.
“I think we’ve done our best when it comes to playing a role there because, at a time, we were not part of the discussion, we were not part of anything entertainment, but then we pushed hard, we pressed on, we were determined, and now here we are,” the comedian said.
Highlighting the challenges, he noted that many once doubted the comedic talent in Ghana. However, he pointed out that today, Ghanaian comedians are making waves globally, performing on international platforms.
According to Foster Romanus, this transformation is a clear indication of the flourishing comedy industry in Ghana.
Notably, he shared his influence on the growth of emerging comedians like Lexi the Comic, O.B. Amponsah, and Jacinta Ocansy.
“Now we have comedians going as far as Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and the UK. There’s OB, Lexi just came from the United States; Jacinta has been to the UK. I feel we inspired all these people in some way or another; directly or indirectly, they saw something good on that side and they saw that they could do it, and I think they’ve done their best,” he said.
The stand-up comedian claimed that comparisons to other performers in the business never bother him. Every act, in his opinion, has unique qualities and might not be appropriate to compare.
“It’s inevitable; no matter what you do, there’s going to be that, but what they have to know is that it’s just like football; there are those who will score, those who will defend, but at the end of the day, mostly they talk about those who score without paying attention to the others, and there are those who train, so at the end of the day, you have different people.”
“In marketing, it’s called consumer behaviour. You can’t get the consumer to always like the product. Definitely, the consumer would want to change preferences; the only thing is that you, the producer, will make sure you’re producing your best so that when you get the right consumers, you can serve them,” he explained.
The comedian emphasized the significance of collaborations and partnerships in brand growth.
He expressed his willingness to approach fellow professionals for assistance or to collaborate, seeing everyone as equals with unique qualities.
According to him, seeking support and making agreements with others in the field are essential steps for personal and collective success.
In the face of widespread criticism and discussions surrounding Ghana’s lithium deal, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, remains steadfast in asserting that the agreement is in the best interest of the country.
During an interview with Bloomberg, the minister affirmed the deal’s potential benefits for Ghana, emphasizing that it represents the highest stake the country has held in a mineral deal.
“Green minerals, lithium, energy transition, and all of that, our president and his government have insisted that we treat these minerals differently from other minerals in the past, which is why we have come up with a policy on the management, exploitation, and utilization of the green minerals of our country, including lithium.
“We have signed some deals with Atlantic Lithium, but we have done all of that in a manner that is fundamentally different from what we did in the past and most importantly, the remarkable difference between what we did in the past and what we are doing now is that we are retaining the highest end of the value chain as much as possible,” he said.
Ghana has officially signed a 15-year lease agreement with Barari DV Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium Limited, to initiate the construction and mining of lithium in Ewoyaa, located in the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region.
This groundbreaking deal incorporates a 10% royalty and a 13% free carried interest by the state, exceeding the prevailing rates of 5% and 10%, respectively, found in other mining agreements.
Ghanaian actor Harold Amenyah recently revealed his journey of overcoming baldness by opting for a hair transplant in Turkey.
He shared that his decision was influenced by a Nigerian actor who successfully regained his hair using the same procedure, as showcased on social media.
Amenyah reached out to medical professionals in Turkey to gather information about the process and, after being convinced, proceeded with the hair transplant.
During an appearance on the United Showbiz program on United Television (UTV), he detailed his experience with the hair transplant.
Encouraging others facing baldness, Amenyah urged them to consider taking a similar step to overcome this challenge.
“Before the hair comes it gets worse, so they harvest from a healthy area into a non-healthy area. it’s been three months since I did it and the hair is growing. I saw one Nigerian actor on social media who had gone to do it so I had it in mind for a very long time. I reached out to the medics in Turkey and they were more than willing to do it for me,” he said.
“They asked me to send the pictures and I did. After undergoing the transplant you’d lose every hair and the results will start manifesting after three months. It is very painful when they are using the needle on your head. They use your hair to do it because another person’s hair might not match the genes. Those who are interested can do the same thing.”
Human Resource practitioners have received a call to leverage data for driving innovation and enhancing the overall work environment.
The Deputy Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Bright Wireko-Brobby, emphasized the pivotal role of HR departments in fostering rapid transformation to boost productivity.
This encouragement was conveyed during an HR outlook and benchmarking conference organized by auditing firm KPMG and the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management in Accra.
At the conference, a new report on human resource development in Ghana, conducted by the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management and KPMG, was unveiled. The survey aims to shed light on key trends in the country’s human resource landscape and propose strategies for the future.
Deputy Minister Bright Wireko-Brobby, at the report launch, advocated for a data-driven approach to innovation for improved productivity.
Dr. Edward Kwapong, President of the Chartered Institute of Human Resources Management, emphasized the report’s significance as an informative tool for practitioners.
Dr. Eric Afful Dadzie, the lead researcher for the report, highlighted critical findings from the survey during the conference.
“The highlights in the report starts from the top hiring sources, one of the key is theat the HR in Ghana is no more conservative, we have seen a certain drift to social technologies in Ghana. Although employee referrals are still ongoing, we can see more of social media hiring which is mostly on linked in. This tells you that there is some kind of shift in hiring sources from the traditional concepts we used to know,” Dr. Eric Afful Dadzie told journalists.
The theme for the conference was Beyond Boundaries; Redefining HR in a data-driven world.
WaterAid Ghana has conducted a detailed examination of Ghana’s 2024 budget, revealing a concerning 68% reduction in the allocation for the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources (MSWR) compared to the previous year. The total budget for MSWR has sharply declined from GHs 1,847,454,545 in 2023 to a mere GH 591,052,380 in 2024.
This substantial reduction is primarily attributed to a staggering 76% decrease in funding from Development Partners (DPs), overshadowing a modest 10% increase in the government’s contribution. The significant drop in DP contributions underscores a heavy dependence on external funding, with DPs constituting 68% of the total sector budget.
The implications are dire, especially as 83% of capital expenditure (CAPEX) within the sector relies on DPs. WaterAid Ghana expresses deep concern over the potential impact on fundraising capabilities and emphasizes that achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) by 2030 now appears increasingly challenging.
The analysis also highlights historical challenges, including lackluster fund releases for WASH programs, particularly from the Government of Ghana. Despite marked successes in compensating employees, other aspects of the sector face financial constraints.
In the broader context of the 2024 budget, WASH is allocated a mere 0.8% of the total budget for flagship programs, with Road Infrastructure and Education receiving a disproportionate 38% and 45%, respectively.
Situating the analysis within the recently launched Ghana Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene Sector Development Programme (GWASHSDP) raises further concerns about Ghana’s ability to achieve SDG targets for WASH by 2030.
The estimated annual cost of US$1.7 billion, covering critical areas such as water resources management, urban and rural water supply, sanitation, hygiene, and institutional development, underscores the financial magnitude required for success. There is a notable variance between the budgetary allocations for WASH in the 2024 budget and the estimated annual cost of WASH investments in the GWASHSDP.
WaterAid Ghana emphasizes that such inadequate allocation is not commensurate with the sector’s importance, raising doubts about the nation’s commitment to achieving international goals. Despite Ghana crossing the GHS1 trillion budgetary mark, only 0.06% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is allocated for WASH initiatives, significantly below international commitments.
WaterAid Ghana calls for immediate action on several fronts:
1. Urgent Funding Increase: WaterAid Ghana urges the government to augment funding for WASH under the MSWR, aligning it with policy aspirations, targets, and the SDG6 target.
2. Transparent SPL Management: Advocacy for the development of a clear framework to manage the Sanitation and Pollution Levy (SPL) and calls for transparency in inflows and disbursements.
3. Accelerated Sector Reforms: Emphasis on the need to expedite ongoing WASH sector reforms, including the Community Water and Sanitation Agency reforms, new water policy implementation, Environment and Sanitation Policy review, and the establishment of the National Sanitation Authority with its accompanying sanitation fund.
4. Equal Priority for WASH: Advocacy for WASH to receive equal priority as Road Infrastructure and Education within the flagship programmes.
5. Increased Sector Funding: A call for the government to amplify investment in sanitation at household and school levels, aligning it with international commitments for the WASH sector.
WaterAid Ghana cautions that if these issues are not resolved quickly, there may be dire consequences and Ghana’s progress toward accomplishing important SDGs related to WASH may be compromised. The urgent need to refocus attention and funds on maintaining and growing Ghana’s WASH sector is highlighted by the call to action.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a Member of the North Tongu constituency, contends that the Akufo-Addo-led government has sanctioned the disbursement of US$20 million, equivalent to GH¢230.5 million, to settle a judgment debt.
He asserts that despite the government’s claim of a lack of funds for emergency housing for victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage, it has allocated funds to cover a judgment debt incurred by the government.
Ablakwa, in a tweet observed by GhanaWeb Business, emphasized that the ministers responsible for wrongfully terminating the contract with the Ghana Power Generation Company (GPGC) would face consequences on the day of reckoning.
“The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/Ofori-Atta government claims it so broke that they cannot provide emergency housing for VRA-induced flood victims but fresh intercepted documents reveal that they have authorized the release of a staggering GHS230.5million (US$ 20 million) to pay for a judgment debt they recklessly & wickedly created,” part of his tweet read.
“I hope the Ministers who wrongfully terminated the GPGC contract and willfully caused financial loss to Ghana are preparing for the day of reckoning,” it added.
Trafigura, the majority shareholder of the power company GPGC, secured an award in January 2021 from an arbitral tribunal in London. The tribunal found that Ghana had unlawfully terminated a contract for the installation and operation of two power plants.
Consequently, properties including the Ghana High Commission building in the UK, which provides visa and other services, the commissioner’s residence, the Ghana International Bank building, and others, are at risk of being auctioned to offset a $140 million judgment debt owed to the Singaporean firm Trafigura.
Although the government has stated that the Finance Ministry is taking measures to settle the debt, Papa Owusu Ankomah, Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, attributes the default in payment to the financial constraints of the government. The termination of the deal in 2017, based on the Attorney General’s advice, cited high tariffs, potential costs of $115,480,000 to the state, and various reasons such as illegality, lack of capacity for GPGC to enter into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), failure to obtain permits, installation of used plants contrary to policy, and GPGC’s failure to fulfill certain conditions.
Contrary to the government’s justification, the former Power Minister contends that among all the PPAs signed in 2016, GPGC had the most economical terms and the shortest lifespan of four years.
The Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE), Abena Amoah, has announced the Exchange’s intention to form strategic collaborations.
These partnerships will involve the Ghana Carbon Market Office of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all capital market stakeholders, and the business community.
The goal is to meticulously develop climate finance and carbon trading mechanisms, mobilizing domestic, regional, and international capital to fund Ghana’s just transition targets by 2070.
Abena Amoah shared this initiative during her address at the inaugural GSE Ring the Bell for Climate Change event, dedicated to acknowledging issuers on the GSE market who have implemented innovative technologies to combat climate change.
Ghana, aiming to finance its energy transition and achieve a net-zero emission target by 2070, estimates the need for approximately $562 billion.
This objective is underpinned by the National Energy Transition Framework, which aims to decarbonize the energy sector. According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Ghana, along with other African nations, has the potential to unlock a substantial $82 billion annually from carbon credits.
UNECA fervently advocates for the establishment of a comprehensive carbon market, positioning it as a sustainable financing mechanism to replace traditional official development assistance to African countries.
Notably, Ghana has already taken a significant step by approving the transfer of mitigation outcomes in a climate change agreement with Switzerland.
This initiative involves the exchange of carbon credits for payment, strategically retaining developmental benefits domestically.
The project’s focus is on transforming Ghana’s waste sector, creating premium organic fertilizer, and generating over 1000 direct jobs, with a special emphasis on women’s employment.
The government’s 2024 revenue target has been deemed overly optimistic and challenging to meet by the Institute of Fiscal Studies.
The government has a history of over-targeting revenue, according to the research institute. For example, in 2022 and 2023, the government budgeted for total revenue and grants to be 20% and 18% of GDP, respectively.
“However, in the 2024 Budget, the government has targeted to collect only 16.8% of GDP in total revenue and grants”, it said in its critique of the 2024 Budget.
“One would therefore be tempted to argue that the 2024 revenue projection is realistic and thus obtainable. Nevertheless, we still see it to be overoptimistic and difficult to achieve”, it added.
Moreover, the institute highlighted that, excluding the pandemic-induced outturn of 14.1% of GDP in 2020, the total revenue and grants have consistently hovered between 15.0% and 15.8% of GDP since 2017. This trend persisted despite the implementation of various revenue measures outlined in previous budgets.
Furthermore, there has been no notable improvement in revenue beyond 0.4 percentage points of GDP in any year during this period.
Therefore, the institute clarified that achieving a total revenue and grants to GDP ratio exceeding the upper bound of 15.8% by a full 1.0 percentage point to reach 16.8% in 2024 would require more robust revenue policies to support such growth.
“Yet, the 2024 budget’s revenue policies are not much different from what has been pursued in the past, despite the government’s development of the Medium-Term Revenue Strategy, 2024–2027. In fact, the anticipated improvement in revenue in 2024 is based, largely, on revenue measures such as excise tax increases, imposition of a growth and sustainability levy, and some changes that have been made to the income tax act that were introduced in 2023 but whose full effects are expected to be realized in 2024”, it stressed.
The institute further noted that despite the implementation of these measures, there was a lack of improvement in revenue in 2023, particularly considering that most of these measures took effect in May of that year.
Additionally, it emphasized that the anticipated enhancement in the total revenue and grants to GDP ratio, as a result of these measures, is projected to decrease from 15.8% in 2022 to 15.7% in 2023.
Domestic revenue to increase to ¢173.30 billion in 2024
The budget outlines a planned rise in domestic revenue from an estimated ¢131.40 billion in 2023 to ¢173.30 billion in 2024. Simultaneously, foreign grants are expected to increase from GH¢2.47 billion to GH¢3.11 billion during the same period.
Breaking down the domestic revenue projections for 2024, tax revenue is budgeted at ¢143.17 billion, constituting 82.6% of the total, while the combined sum of non-tax and other revenues is ¢30.13 billion, representing the remaining 17.4%.
Legal practitioner and John Dramani Mahama’s special aide, Joyce Bawah Mogtari has expressed no sympathy for the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng after sharing his struggles with the media in recent times.
She asserts that a strong politician as Martin Amidu could not stand the test of time in office as the Special Prosecutor, how much more Kissi Agyebeng, the current occupant of the office.
In conversation with Cup of Tea show host Julius Caesar Anadem on the Ultimate FM, Madam Joyce suggested that the creation of the office of the Special Prosecutor was to specifically hunt NDC appointees under Maham’s regime.
“You heard the Special Prosecutor; he was almost in tears. I shed no tears for him, absolutely not,” a quote attributable to Special Aide to Former President John Dramani Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari during an interview.
“If Martin Amidu struggled with government, to serve as Special Prosecutor, (now speaking in pidgin) Kissi Agyebeng en hussle go make double sef”
“How is he going to do it, what was the intention of the office of the Special Prosecutor? You know before you pass legislation, there is always a preamble, in this case the preamble may not have been what the real intention was even though it was meant to check corruption.
“It could also have been political vendetta to establish an office and put in someone who had an axe to grind with my predecessor so that he will go after my political opponents”, she explained.
SP Kissi Agyebeng has turned to the media to voice his frustrations with the courts and certain judges while carrying out his constitutional duties.
At one juncture, he characterized himself as a lone ranger, acknowledging the challenges he faces in combating corruption in the country. Despite obstacles being placed in his path, he asserted that he remains undeterred and unperturbed in his pursuit.
Experiencing a morning erection or boner is completely normal, and it is a common occurrence, particularly among younger men. Interestingly, some older men also continue to have this experience.
It’s important to understand that these ‘spontaneous’ erections serve as an indicator of good erectile function and cardiovascular health. For men still encountering morning erections in their later years, it’s a reassuring sign that their sexual health remains robust.
Here are some additional facts about morning erections that you may find intriguing.
They happen multiple times all through the night till morning
Contrary to being solely a ‘morning culture,’ morning erections actually occur throughout the night, up to five times, to be precise.
Termed as ‘nocturnal penile tumescence’ (NPT), the term ‘nocturnal’ is employed because morning erections are typically the final instances in a series of erections that happen during the night as a man sleeps.
They boost nerve health
Erections are caused by the parasympathetic nervous system, the system in charge of “rest and relaxation.”
The sympathetic nervous system, which is in charge of your fight-or-flight reaction, is the opposite of this.
On the other hand, having morning or nighttime erections indicates that your parasympathetic nervous system is operating normally.
Testosterone levels are high during this period
Testosterone reaches peak levels first thing in the morning, which is often enough to cause an erection even without physical stimulation.
This means morning erection in men, is an indication that their testosterone levels are healthy.
Unconscious penis exercises resulting in erections at night and morning
Even during restful sleep, your brain remains vigilant, and it’s not entirely oblivious to your surroundings.
Physical stimulation, such as self-touch or a partner’s touch, can trigger the natural process of an erection, even when one is still unconscious.
Moreover, erections can occur autonomously during sleep, ranging from three to five times, each lasting approximately half an hour, without any external touch to the penis.
The Accra High Court is set to expedite the trial of Nana Appiah Mensah, the CEO of the now-defunct Menzgold Ghana Limited, also known as NAM1.
During the Case Management Conference on Tuesday, December 12, Presiding Judge Justice Ernest Owusu-Daapah expressed the intention to conclude the proceedings by March 2024.
Facing 39 counts, including allegations of defrauding customers, selling gold, operating an unlicensed deposit-taking business, and money laundering, NAM1 maintains his plea of not guilty.
The court session also revealed the opportunity for plea bargaining, yet NAM1’s lawyer, Kwame Akuffo, stated that his client has not considered this option.
Director of Public Prosecution Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa confirmed the state’s plan to call 11 witnesses to substantiate their case. The trial is scheduled to commence on December 20, 2024.
Post-court session, Frederick Forson, Spokesperson for the Aggrieved Customers of Menzgold, expressed satisfaction with the court’s handling of the case.
Kumawood actor, Salinko has recently disclosed a shocking revelation concerning a contentious paternity matter involving his former girlfriend.
Salinko shared details about his past relationship with his ex-partner, who had misled him into believing he was the father of a child that wasn’t biologically his own.
Initially elated at the prospect of becoming a father, especially after the loss of their initial pregnancy, Salinko described how he supported his girlfriend throughout the pregnancy. He went to the extent of providing her with accommodation in his luxurious Kumasi residence while he continued working in Accra.
However, only four months after the child’s birth, Salinko noticed suspicious behavior from his girlfriend, leading to controversies surrounding the child’s paternity.
The situation escalated when Salinko received a distressing call while working in Accra, informing him that a man had confronted him at his house, accusing him of taking away his lover and child.
Feeling shocked and dismayed, Salinko directed his girlfriend to leave his house, and he returned to Accra to address the unfolding crisis.
Upon investigation, Salinko discovered that the accuser was, surprisingly, a fellow Kumawood actor he knew personally. This confrontation compelled Salinko to seek an explanation from his ex-girlfriend, who, in the presence of her family, admitted to engaging in a dual relationship.
“After I sent her packing, she brought in her father to apologise on her behalf. I told them I am already attached to the child so I will continue taking care until he grows and I can afford a DNA. But deep down, we all know I am not the father,” he said in an interview on Adom TV‘s Okukuseku.
Data compiled by the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, has it that Ghana emerges as the most indebted to China among 15 African nations.
The data reveals that Ghana’s total loans from China, following the completion of the HIPC Initiative, amount to $31.1 billion, constituting the entirety of the country’s Chinese loans.
Guinea follows with $21.9 billion, Ethiopia with $14.8 billion, and Tanzania with $12.6 billion.
Economist Theophilus Acheampong expressed astonishment at Ghana topping the list, drawing parallels to the debt challenges faced by nations in the 1970s that led to interventions like HIPC.
He wrote on X: “Very interesting visual. I thought Ethiopia would have taken more Chinese loans than Ghana. Data comes from the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission. According to the Commission, 60% of China’s debtor nations were in financial distress in 2022, up from 5% in 2010. But how is this any different from the debt distress of the 1970s, late 90s to early 2000s, which led to the likes of HIPC/MDRI? Same game, just different players!”
Very interesting visual. I thought Ethiopia would have taken more Chinese loans than Ghana. Data comes from the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission. According to the Commission, 60% of China’s debtor nations were in financial distress in 2022, up from 5% in 2010. But… pic.twitter.com/ni85fl8Ndl
Daniel Parker Odarlai France, the Greater Accra Regional Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), delivered a stern warning, declaring that no sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) will be permitted to run unopposed in the upcoming parliamentary primaries.
Mr. France stressed that this decision aims to rectify past mistakes that contributed to the party losing numerous seats in the last general election. Contrary to any perception of protection for certain MPs, he clarified that there was no directive from higher authorities to that effect.
The regional decision is based on the party’s commitment to ensuring a competitive internal process.
Instances where MPs like Moses Anim and Tina Mensah went unopposed in the last primaries would face contests this time, emphasizing the need for hard work as no one will be protected. The recently concluded primaries in some orphan constituencies justified this approach, despite acknowledged complaints.
Mr. France mentioned Dr. Oko Boye’s case, assuring a comeback and highlighting the importance of healthy competition within the party.
He cautioned against stepping on people’s toes, emphasizing the region’s commitment to unity for victory in the 2024 election. The warning was issued during an appearance on Atinka TV on Saturday, December 9, 2023.
Minister of Communications and Ablekuma West Member of Parliament, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has expressed concern regarding the Anti-LGBT bill’s criminalization of sex toys.
She said that heterosexual couples who use sex toys to improve their sex lives would unintentionally be impacted by the criminalization of sex toy use found in clause 3(c) of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021.
Communications Minister and MP for Ablekuma West, Ursula Owusu, had some concerns about criminalising the use of sex toys among heterosexual couples. #JoyNewspic.twitter.com/6hGJ4jVXLU
Clause 3(c) of the bill explicitly prohibits sexual intercourse between a man and an inanimate object, or between a woman and an inanimate object.
She emphasized that if the intention of the house is to criminalize sex toys, it should be explicitly stated that the bill is not solely directed at the LGBT community but applies to everyone.
In the absence of such clarity, she has urged for the immediate removal of Clause 3(c).
These remarks were made during the deliberation of the Anti-LGBT bill on the floor of Parliament.
“And I think we raised this when the committee was considering it that the proposed amendment in 3(c) may create unintended consequences because sexual intercourse between a man and an inanimate object or between a woman and an inanimate object would necessarily include sexual intercourse with all manner of aids that couple use to enhance the sexual experience.”
“And I’m not sure if that’s what the intention of this bill is. It would necessarily include sex toys and other aids that couples, heterosexual couples also use to enhance the sexual experience.
“So if that is what the house intends then we have to be clear in our minds that we may be criminalising activities which may not necessarily be limited to only those LGBTQI community that the target of this bill is, but it may also be targeting straight couples who use sex enhancement tools to enhance the sexual experience.
“So we need to be mindful of the unintended consequences of 3(c) could be and I’ll propose that 3(c) be deleted from this amendment.”
Disagreements emerged in Parliament regarding the appropriate punishment for individuals engaging in unnatural carnal knowledge within the LGBTQ+ community.
The proposed bill seeks to criminalize such activities, prescribing a penalty of 3 to 5 years.
However, the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee suggested a prison term of up to 3 years without specifying a minimum sentence. The Chairman of the Committee clarified the reasoning behind this proposal on Tuesday, December 12, 2023.
“Most of the religious bodies were supporting the fact that they would give people who are prepared to go through reforms, the opportunity to go through. If we make a strict law that if you are found guilty, or you practice this, you don’t have an option. Mr. Speaker, we don’t have a community service that would have been more severe than giving the person a custodial sentence, because the society will look down upon you.”
“But to caution you or to give you deserve imprisonment or imprisonment, if we leave it to the discretion of the judge, they are also members of this society, they are learned, and depending on the circumstances, that’s why I am comfortable if we give the upper limit without saying that the person must be imprisoned as a minimum requirement.”
Sam George, one of the bill’s sponsors, stated that guidance on the amount of penalty units to be imposed on offenders would be essential in judging the severity of the appropriate punishment.
“We should then get advice on what the minimum penalty or 750 units is concurrent with, is it three months or six months? So we have a lower limit also for custodial sentence,” he said on the floor.”
But the Speaker interjected saying that there was already a law on equivalence on penalty units and therefore “that will apply.”
Following the discussions, the Speaker postponed the questions to the parliamentary drafters. Their task is to create a comprehensive document that accurately mirrors the intentions expressed by various legislators during the deliberations.
Background
On Tuesday, June 29, 2021, Speaker Alban Bagbin received a private member’s bill that is controversial regarding LGBT issues. Eight MPs are leading the charge on it.
The advocates want homosexuality to be criminalized in the nation, along with its funding, promotion, and advocacy.
In the course of deliberation of the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s budget in Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, the Ranking Member on the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee, asserted that the government is intentionally obstructing Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng to compel his resignation.
Ahiafor claimed that Agyebeng’s recent expressions of frustration indicate a lack of support from various institutions, hindering the Special Prosecutor’s ability to combat corruption effectively.
He emphasized the need for collective support from all anti-graft public offices for the OSP to achieve meaningful results during Agyebeng’s tenure.
“All institutions must come together to support the office of the special prosecutor. I believe strongly because the office of the special prosecutor is not getting institutional support. He had to do a press conference that he’s anko anoma, ode ne kora abo afore3, he’s walking alone, he’s sacrificing his life.
“If you listen to him, you can come to a conclusion that this is a statement made out of frustration. Mr. Speaker do we want a young man, 43 years, removed from the lecture theatre and the court room, appointed as the special prosecutor to also resign as a result of frustration?
“I believe that the first special prosecutor appointed similarly resigned and after resignation indicated that the president of the republic of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo is a mother serpent of corruption. Corruption affects everybody therefore the office of the special prosecutor needed all institutions to support him in order to support his function creditably,” he said.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the minister of communications, has retaliated, stating that there is no attempt to thwart the OSP’s efforts by the low release of budgetary funds to the office.
Nearly all MDAs, according to Ursula Owusu, do not receive the entire amount allocated.
“Every agency, ministry or department that appears before the committees of the house including the constitutional, legal and parliamentary affairs committee faces that situation.
“So I’m very surprised that the ranking member will seek to intimate the budget allocation to the special prosecutor which is less than what he has requested as a result of government’s lack of commitment to fighting corruption. I don’t think that that can ever be the situation,” she said.
As longstanding members of this house, we are all familiar with the yearly budget ritual in which all ministries, departments, and agencies complain that, despite their budgetary requirements, they almost never receive enough funding to carry out their mandate.
Earlier, Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, criticized the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor, deeming it an exercise in futility.
Bagbin proposed that the government should have opted to separate the Attorney General’s Department from the Ministry of Justice instead.
Despite these remarks, Parliament granted approval for the Office of the Special Prosecutor to spend 149 million cedis in 2024.
Renowned UK-based artist and author, Pastor Allen Caiquo, has unveiled his eagerly awaited double release, ‘Crave’ and ‘We Hail You.’
After navigating through the events of 2023, Pastor Allen Caiquo aims to unite his faith with believers globally, expressing heartfelt emotions to the Savior.
The songs collectively convey a profound sense of gratitude, affirming that, regardless of the year’s challenges, believers will persist in yearning for God’s presence and praising Him as they conclude 2023 and eagerly anticipate the coming year.
Timed perfectly for this year’s festive season, known as Detty December in Ghana, Pastor Allen’s ‘Crave’ is an upbeat tune for believers seeking joy while remaining steadfast in their faith.
On the other hand, ‘We Hail You’ invites listeners into a continuous worship experience.
As we dance our way through the remainder of the year with ‘Crave,’ Pastor Allen Caiquo sets the stage for a fresh start in the new year with the soulful sounds of ‘We Hail You.’
Tensions erupted on the parliamentary floor during the discussion of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
Sponsors of the bill clashed with the Chairman of the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee of Parliament, Kwame Anyimadu Antwi, regarding a proposed amendment.
According to a report from myjoyonline.com, Anyimadu Antwi suggested removing Clause 4 of the bill, deeming it not only ambiguous but also highly subjective. His proposed amendment was in alignment with a recommendation from the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Godfred Dame, on the bill.
“Though this clause creates an offence relating to undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values what constitutes ‘undermine’ is not defined and therefore the basis of the offence cannot be determined.
“Mr. Speaker this is the advice the learned Attorney General gave to the committee and the entire committee agreed on this advice. And that’s why we agreed as has been said by ranking that it was too much of subjectivity and ambiguities and that is why we propose that in deleting and creating an offence we shouldn’t be having ambiguities and subjectivities. That is why the proposal is to delete the entire clause,” he is quoted to have said.
However, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, the South Dayi Member of Parliament and the bill’s sponsor, refused the legal committee chairman’s suggestion to delete the passage.
He maintained that since the clause is essential to the legislation, it cannot be removed.
“Mr. Speaker the essence of four is so cardinal to this legislation. So, so cardinal, so, so fundamental to it. I’ve been struggling to appreciate the point made by the ranking member that this offence in Article 39, he’s not been able to point it out. The subjectivity element that he points to that, too I am struggling to appreciate.
“Because you see when we enacted the provision this way, subject to the enhancement contained in the amendments listed thereafter, there will be investigations if somebody makes a complaint that Clause 4 which subsequently will become section four has been breached, that is not the end of it. Investigations will be conducted. It is the investigation that will establish a prima facie that indeed Clause 4 subsequently section 4 of the law has been breached or not,” he explained.
What Clause 4 of the anti-gay bill states:
Prohibition against undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values
4. (1) A person shall not (a) undermine the proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values specified in section 2 of this Act; or (b) directly or indirectly, instigate, command, counsel, procure, solicit, or in any other manner purposely aid, facilitate, encourage or promote, whether by a personal act or presence or otherwise, an act that undermines the proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values.
(2) A person who contravenes paragraphs (a) or (b) of subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than one thousand penalty units and not more than two thousand penalty units or a term of imprisonment not less than two months and not more than four months.
The MPs also considered Clause 6 of the bill which covers punishment for offenders.
Under the bill, homosexuality will be treated as a misdemeanour. The chairman of the committee proposed a prescribed punishment of “not less than 3 years and not more than 5 years” imprisonment.
Meanwhile, some MPs have proposed a minimum sentence of 3 months.
The Leader of Prophets and Spiritual Churches Council, Ghana, Nakoa Prophet Nazareth Ansah Jamson, has been officially coronated as the ‘Nor Yaa Mantse’ – the Development Chief of Onomrako, a development chief of the Adain Family of Ga.
The coronation took place at a vibrant ceremony in Accra on Saturday, witnessing the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including clergy, traditional rulers, and politicians.
National Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, who shares a close relationship with Nakoa Prophet, attended the ceremony with a powerful delegation.
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, represented by the Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey, congratulated the Pastor later in the evening.
Representatives from the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Turu II, and the Ga Traditional Council were also present at the event. The coronation of Nakoa Prophet as Nor Yaa Mantse acknowledges his significant contributions to development, both at the community and national levels.
In his gratitude speech, Nakoa Prophet expressed appreciation to the Onomrako Adain Family for the honor and pledged to continue supporting communities.
He drew parallels with the Biblical Joseph, expressing hope that his coronation would be a blessing to the Onomrako Adain Family and communities across the country.
Nakoa Prophet Jamson extended heartfelt thanks to the guests, especially Vice President Bawumia, who, although represented by the Greater Accra Minister, attended the event later.
“What Vice President Bawumia has done has touched my heart,” Nakoa Prophet said during the ceremony.
“He had national assignments outside Accra and he sent a representative here. But he has still managed to be here upon getting back to Accra. This shows how values us and I am really touched.”
“So far as the Vice President has been able to give that much respect to Allah Almighty, should he also have any request before Him may his request be granted. May God Almighty grant the Vice President his heart desire and make him great and strong,” prayed Nakoa Prophet.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Ghana Armed Forces, Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, has revealed plans for the Armed Forces to partner with the National Service Scheme in an initiative aimed at producing food to address food security challenges in the country.
The announcement was made during a durbar at the Labadi Trade Fair Centre, where the Ghana Armed Forces, in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS), conducted a clean-up exercise in Ashaiman, Ledzokuku, and LADMA with support from other security agencies and Zoomlion.
The clean-up initiative involved clearing choked gutters, removing bushes, and sweeping filthy locations in the communities. Additionally, free health screenings were offered to residents in the areas where the clean-up exercises were conducted.
Vice Admiral Seth Amoama emphasized the commitment of the Armed Forces to maintain peace with their neighbors and pledged ongoing engagement with people in operational areas. He expressed a dedication to sustaining the clean-up efforts to support President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s vision of making Accra the cleanest city in Africa.
The CDS also highlighted plans to provide military training to prospective NSS personnel to instill discipline in the youth, contributing to national development.
Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Service Scheme, commended the clean-up exercise and free health screenings, affirming the NSS’s readiness to engage in agricultural projects.
He lauded the collaboration with the military and urged Ghanaians to adopt military discipline for improved lives. Mr. Osei Assibey pledged to strengthen ties between the NSS and the Armed Forces in various capacities.
Background
It has scheduled a number of events to help celebrate the year-long anniversary as part of the celebrations for the NSS’s 50th anniversary.
Among these was the cleanup operation with the armed forces and other collaborators.
The Shop Manager at Max Buy Ghana Limited, a retailer of electrical appliances in West Hills Mall, Boafo Osei Kwame, has been acquitted of murder by the Sowutuom District Court.
The Attorney General’s Department recommended his release based on autopsy results from an incident on January 30 earlier this year.
Magistrate Stephen Tebiri executed the discharge following Police Prosecutor Inspector MK Kwakye’s notification to the Court about the fiat from the AG’s department instructing the accused’s release.
Postmortem report revealed that Shadrach Arloo, 33, (deceased) died from “Asphyxiation and obstruction of airway by a foreign body.”
Boafo Osei Kwame faced arrest on January 30, provisionally charged with murder for allegedly causing Arloo’s death by using a Taser.
After the post-mortem examination revealed the cause of death, the Attorney General’s Office recommended the accused’s discharge via a fiat.
Magistrate Stephen Tebiri executed the discharge following Police Inspector MK Kwakye’s notification to the Court, stating, “the fiat says the accused should be discharged.”
As of July 20, 2023, EIB Network’s Legal Affairs Correspondent, Murtala Inusah, notes the accused’s discharge during a court follow-up. Andrew Kudzo Vortia led the defense team.
Brief facts
According to the presented case details, the complainant is Bernard Boanor Denkyi, an Operations Manager at West Hills Mall in Weija. Boafo Osei Kwame, the accused, serves as the Shop Manager for Max Buy Ghana Limited, dealing in electronic appliances within the same mall.
The prosecution’s account states that on January 30, 2023, Police Sergeant Daniel Abeiku from the Visibility Unit of the Ghana Police Service, Headquarters, patrolled the mall.
During the patrol, he observed Shadrach Arloo, 33 (now deceased), and Ibrahim Seshi, a witness in the case, both wearing backpacks. The movement of the deceased and the witness raised suspicion, prompting the Police Sergeant to call the deceased for a backpack search.
The prosecution said, “The deceased opened the backpack, removed something wrapped in a black polythene back from the backpack and put in his back pocket, and started running outside.”
It said “The policeman pursued the deceased and got him arrested.
The deceased struggled with the policeman when he was being handcuffed and in the process, he removed the wrapped polythene bag from his back pocket and swallowed it.
“The accused person who also saw the incident rushed to the serene and removed his personal Taser and shocked the deceased.”
It said, “The deceased fell unconscious as a result and was rushed to the Somotech hospital within the Mall for treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival by the medical doctor on duty.”
The brief facts stated that the “accused was arrested and Taser retrieved from him” and “During the interrogation, the accused stated that he brought the Taser for self defence.”
The prosecution stated that “the body of the deceased was carefully inspected but no physical marks of assault were found.”
“The body was later removed and deposited at the Police Hospital for preservation and autopsy. Investigation ongoing” the court was informed.
According to reports, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is getting ready to take legal action against UBA Ghana for not fulfilling its pledge to pay $4.33 million for the purchase of cocoa in 2022.
Vice President of policy think tank IMANI Africa Bright Simons claims that when UBA Ghana made an offer at the last minute, COCOBOD’s management had already completed the annual loan agreement.
“6 months down the line they hadn’t paid,” Bright Simons wrote via X on December 12, 2023, while sharing a Fitch ratings verdict of the bank issued on September 15, 2023.
“Cocobod management says they have told their lawyers to force UBA to cough up the cash or take them to Court for damages. UBA management have been tight-lipped about what they saw in Cocobod’s books that spooked them or whether their group level went hard on them on their risk exposures,” he added.
Meanwhile, COCOBOD, grappling with debt obligations, secures record-high loan for cocoa purchases. Several international banks commit to lending Ghana Cocoa Board approximately $800 million at nearly 8 percent interest. Observers question the need for recurrent loans despite Ghana’s significant role in global cocoa production and export.
1/ Cocobod is lacing its boots to go chase UBA Bank for refusing to pay $4.33m it promised in 2022 for cocoa purchases. Cocobod mgmt says they had already finalised the annual loan deal when UBA showed up & made the offer. 6 mths down the line they hadn't paid. pic.twitter.com/S74ObVsfZH
1/ Cocobod is lacing its boots to go chase UBA Bank for refusing to pay $4.33m it promised in 2022 for cocoa purchases. Cocobod mgmt says they had already finalised the annual loan deal when UBA showed up & made the offer. 6 mths down the line they hadn't paid. pic.twitter.com/S74ObVsfZH
2/ Cocobod mgmt says they have told their lawyers to force UBA to cough up the cash or take them to Court for damages. UBA mgmt have been tight-lipped about what they saw in Cocobod's books that spooked them or whether their group level went hard on them on their risk exposures. pic.twitter.com/BajTf1CawL
In 2021, Ghana presented the Promotion of Appropriate Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-gay bill, to the Parliament.
The bill aimed to criminalize various aspects related to homosexuality, including promotion, advocacy, funding, and acts of homosexuality. It proposed harsh penalties, such as up to ten years in prison for LGBTQ+ advocates and three years for LGBT individuals.
The bill received widespread support from many Ghanaians, including religious bodies and various groups. However, opposition emerged from some individuals who argued that the bill violated citizens’ rights and was inhumane.
Several celebrities have been vocal in expressing their opposition to the bill. As the proposed legislation is still under consideration in Parliament, it is worth examining the stance of these celebrities who have publicly spoken out against the “anti-LGBT Bill.”
1. Sister Derby
Singer Deborah Vanessa, popularly known as Sister Derby, has been a staunch critic of the bill and has constantly been engaged in banters on social media with proponents of the bill. Especially MP for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George.
“You are only doing this to score political points forgetting the harm you are causing queer folk. Tell us what else you will personally gain from passing this bill if not political points??? Shame on you!” she fired Sam George in a Twitter post.
2. Wanlov the Kubolor
Alternative musician Wanlov the Kubolor has also been vocal about his concerns about the bill. In an interview in 2023, he described the bill as “foreign” to African culture and argued that LGBT practises have been part of Ghanaian culture.
“We have always been queer here in Ghana. Like we have friends and family members and we know it. So why do you want to see them in jail? And why do we want to see ourselves in jail? Because part of the bill says if you don’t report a queer person that you are living with, you are equally guilty,” he argued.
3. Leila Dzansi
US-based Ghanaian filmmaker Leila Dzansi has also expressed her support for individuals in the LGBT community in light of the bill.
In a 2021 post, Leila Dzansi, in a Facebook post, said she would stand up for the “oppressed” and would not remain mute if individuals were being brutalised for being themselves.
“Monday morning and somewhere in Ghana, land of my parents, school kids are singing:
God bless our homeland Ghana
And make our nation great and strong
BOLD to defend forever
The cause of Freedom and of Right.
Fill our hearts with true humility
Make us cherish fearless honesty,
And help us to resist oppressors’ rule
With all our will and might evermore.
Here’s to constantly using my voice and platform to defend and speak up for the oppressed. Bring on the name-calling. I am made of strong stuff! No one will be killed, maimed, beaten or oppressed on my watch. When you choose to fight for what’s right and for the oppressed, people will call you names, brand you, abuse you… heck, they killed Jesus.
They killed MLK, they distabilized Kwame Nkrumah, they imprisoned Nelson Mandela. But still, they thrived and today, we all reap the fruits of their sacrifice. Don’t sit on the sidelines if you can swing a sword on the battlefield. #onward!” she posted,
4. Kobi Rana
Film-maker Kobi Rana had also aired his stance on the anti-LGBT bill. In a 2021 post amidst the heat of the bill being put before Parliament, Kobi Rana sarcastically inquired if the bill being passed would automatically solve all other pressing issues Ghanaians faced in the country.
He lambasted politicians for praying against LGBT practices and accused them of attempting to drive attention away from other pressing needs in the country.
“Here are Ghana leaders praying today. They are praying against LGBT and planning to criminalize. I am sure that will stop police and military from killing citizens, get jobs for unemployed youth and solve the unbearable cost of living. Not forgetting their own corruption. Thieves praying against sex. How will somebody’s vagina, penis and asshole fix your country? YOU WILL DO ANYTHING TO SHIFT ATTENTION FROM THE PROBLEMS AND FAILURES YOU MUST FIX. The world must be rolling on the floor with laughter,” he posted.
5. Angel Maxine
Since the bill’s introduction, well-known transgender Ghanaian influencer Angel Maxine has been transparent about her position.
However, a significant development occurred when Angel Maxine issued a threat to disclose the names of influential Ghanaian politicians and others involved in LGBT activities in December 2023.
“Pass the bill and I will show you your MPs who are LGBTQ persons. You think I have not seen gay politicians? All the MPs who have been texting people to get them boys to sleep with. All of the politicians who have been begging pimps to hook them up with boys. All your chats and conversations are here (points to a pile of documents). Pass the bill and I will expose your family members and children who are gay. All those queer celebrities, also cannot speak for themselves,” she fumed.
Reactions to the threats made on the celebrity’s Instagram page were divided; some accused Angel Maxine of lying and blackmailing them, while others dared her to reveal the list.
Minister of arts and culture, Zizi Kodwa, announced the death of South African singer Bulelwa Mkutukana, better known by her stage name Zahara, on Monday, December 11.
ZAHARA Passes away
According to EWN, the singer passed away on Monday, December 11 at a private hospital. The singer’s cause of death is still a mystery. In a tweet on Monday, December 11, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa confirmed the singer Zahara’s passing.
“I am very saddened by the passing of @ZaharaSA. My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry. Government has been with the family for some time now. Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music,” read the tweet.
I am very saddened by the passing of @ZaharaSA. My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry. Government has been with the family for some time now. Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music. pic.twitter.com/1a402aQfLs
This comes after reports of the singer being admitted into hospital as she suffered “physical pains”.
Five things to know about the late musician
Zahara is a self-taught guitarist.
She was born and raised in East London, Eastern Cape.
The singer released her first studio album in 2011, called Loliwe, which went double platinum. She then released Phendula two years later followed by Country Girl in 2015.
The Phendula hitmaker scooped many awards in her career. She holds 17 SAMusic awards, three Metro FM awards and a Nigeria Entertainment award.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has been accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a minor and sleeping with his wife’s sister by some pro-LGBTQ campaigners.
The accusations were made by Ghanaian musician Deborah Vanessa, also known as Sister Deborah, and transgender musician and activist Angel Maxine, on social media.
Sister Deborah revealed the allegations in the comments section of an Instagram video posted by @angelmaxinetv.
The video was about Angel Maxine’s threats to expose some Members of Parliament (MPs) who are involved in LGBTQ practices, if they allow the passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
Sister Deborah expressed support for Angel Maxine and claimed that the Speaker was guilty of pedophilia and incest.
“The Bagbin nu, dem say ebe minor sef he sleep with o. That’s pedophilia and that’s the real crime here,” she wrote.
Speaker Bagbin accused of sleeping with a minor over LGBTQ campaign#INDNews Anas Aremeyaw Anas | Legon | John Mahama #UPSA Landlord | Legon | 22nd December | Bawumia | Kasoa pic.twitter.com/Sa1vb0WUFK
Angel Maxine also repeated the allegations in the video, calling the Speaker an “old fool” and saying that his children and family should be disappointed in him.
“Alan Bagbin you are such an old fool and your children and family should be disappointed in you. You, who did incest, you who slept with your wife’s sister, even you, you are walking freely. You are not imprisoned,” she said.
The anti-gay bill, officially known as the Promotion of Appropriate Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2021, seeks to criminalize various aspects of homosexuality, including its promotion, advocacy, funding, and the acts themselves. The bill imposes severe penalties, with LGBTQ advocates facing up to ten years in prison, and self-identifying individuals potentially facing three years of incarceration. The bill also seeks to withhold health services, including HIV medication, from the LGBTQ community.
The primary sponsor of the bill, Sam Nartey George, argues that homosexuality is not a human right but a lifestyle choice. He warned against U.S. interference, threatening potential impacts on Ghana’s business interests.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, strongly opposes LGBTQ practices and maintains that the bill aligns with constitutional provisions and international obligations.
However, human rights organizations, such as Rightify Ghana, contend that the bill undermines progress in HIV/AIDS efforts and constitutes a violation of basic LGBTQ rights. These concerns echo those raised by the UNAIDS program in 2021.
It’s essential to note that these claims are not verified and remain allegations from individuals who purport to have proof.
Speaker Bagbin accused of incest#INDNews Anas Aremeyaw Anas | Legon | John Mahama #UPSA Landlord | Legon | 22nd December | Bawumia | Kasoa pic.twitter.com/cQc05wNT1U
Shop manager at Max Buy Ghana Limited, Boafo Osei Kwame, accused of using a Taser resulting in the death of Shadrach Arloo, brother of gospel singer Perpetual Didier, has been acquitted of murder by the Sowutuom District Court.
The incident occurred during a police altercation at West Hills Mall, where Shadrach lost his life after resisting a search. Despite offering to go to the police station, Shadrach was allegedly attacked.
Boafo Osei Kwame was discharged on July 20, 2023, based on the Attorney General’s Department’s recommendation following autopsy results.
The postmortem report disclosed that Shadrach Arloo, 33, the deceased, died due to “Asphyxiation and obstruction of airway by a foreign body.”
Following the post-mortem examination disclosing the cause of death, the Attorney General’s Office, through a fiat, suggested releasing the accused.
Magistrate Stephen Tebiri carried out the discharge upon Police Inspector MK Kwakye’s notification to the Court, citing the “the accused should be discharged.”
Renowned actress Mary Njoku Remmy is marking her husband Jason’s birthday today, reflecting on their journey. She recalled their initial meeting in 2011 when he had just turned 30, and how their love story unfolded.
Mary shared that within four days of dating, Jason proposed, leading to their joyous and enduring marriage.
She wrote: “First day we met. 14th January 2011. He just turned 30. He requested a picture with me. See him standing like a gentleman. Don’t be fooled.”
In another post, she wrote: “We fell in love. Started dating. And in 4 days, he proposed. ‘I am in love with you Mary. And if we cross this month, we will be together forever’ I didn’t know how to respond. 4 days were too early to be thinking of ‘forever’ I guess. But the guy get plans. ‘I was born to make the world’s silkiest moves’ He says. Funny, but believed him,” she stated.
She continued by describing their difficult start and saying that his goals were the only thing that kept them going.
“He worked tirelessly and I never saw him fall asleep. Though those days were humbling sha. Mattress on the floor. Mosquito net on the wall, No clean running water, shared kitchen with 5 staff, na so person go tie towel go fetch water, staff go dey drag space with am. He had no car yet (we used mine) but he talked big and worked ‘bigger’. I love Ambitious,” she added.
The Ghanaian government is requesting parliamentary endorsement for a $338 million loan agreement designated for the enhancement and refurbishment of the Accra-Tema motorway.
Patrick Yaw Boamah, Vice Chair of the Finance Committee of Parliament, disclosed that the loan will also cover the funding of rehabilitation efforts on the existing six-lane divided Nsawam highway.
“The Accra-Tema motorway alone is 19.5 kilometres, but this project is 27.7 kilometres, so one may ask, where are you getting the remainder from? The entire project is divided into three sections. The first section is the Accra-Tema Motorway, which is 19.5 kilometres, and it is going to be the rehabilitation and expansion of a minimum of 10 lanes on the motorway…”
“Then, the second section is N1, the George Walker Bush highway, and the scope is 5.7 kilometres… Then the third scope is the Nsawam road, rehabilitation of the existing six lanes on the Nsawam road,” the lawmaker shared as he explained the scope of work.”
He continued,“…So this is the scope of work that is going to happen. So, you can tell from what I have told you that it is going to be a very comprehensive program that will span about 3 years or more depending on how the project goes. And it is going to be a joint venture between Maripoma Limited and Ghana Infrastructure Fund.”
In his presentation of the 2023 budget to parliament on November 24, 2022, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta stated that construction on the Accra Tema motorway expansion project was anticipated to start this year.
The government decided to purchase the 27.7-kilometer project through a public-private partnership (PPP) agreement with the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF).
Mr. Joseph Whittal, the Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), is proposing more severe penalties for individuals and businesses participating in activities that harm the environment, particularly illegal mining (Galamsey).
He suggests that imposing stricter punishments would act as a deterrent for those with plans to harm the environment for personal or business gain.
“The wanton destruction of the environment and the pollution of water bodies due to galamsey activities must be fought head-on with more urgency irrespective of who is involved,” he said.
Mr Whittal made the call in Accra yesterday at a day’s forum in commemoration of the International Human Rights Day held under the theme; “The 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Implications for Human Rights Protection in Ghana.”
According to the CHRAJ Commissioner, owners of both public and private companies must conduct their operations lawfully and with respect for the rights of all people whose livelihoods may be impacted by them.
Adding, “Human rights due diligence must be a pre-requisite for the establishment of businesses.”
He expressed confidence that the adoption of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights next year would strengthen the regulation of business activities in alignment with human rights principles.
The Commissioner acknowledged Ghana’s strides in enhancing human rights protection but highlighted substantial areas for improvement.
He urged the government to reform policies, ensuring the protection of the rights of the disadvantaged, including women, children, older persons, individuals living with HIV, and those with disabilities.
“As a Commission, we remain committed to our mandate of promotion and protection of human rights and we will do everything possible within the ambit of the Law to ensure true respect for the rights of all “leaving no one behind,” he assured.
Mr. Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, the Deputy Attorney-General and Deputy Minister of Justice, emphasized that the observance of Human Rights Day aims to instill the importance of acknowledging and upholding human rights, fostering empathy for individuals irrespective of their race, place of origin, political opinion, color, religion, or gender.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the celebration serves as an opportunity to discuss and comprehend the challenges hindering the progress of human rights in Ghana today and anticipate those that may arise in the future.
“One of the thematic issues identified by CHRAJ in relation to blatant disregard for the protection of human rights enshrined in the UDHR is business operations and environmental rights.
According to Mr. Charles Abani, the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, glyphosate, which is used in the production of yams, has been found to be “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Paraquat and chlorpyrifos, on the other hand, are prohibited in Europe but are imported and used in Ghana.
Ghanaian actor Samuel Yaw Dabo has shared details about his conversation with colleague Don Little following a car accident involving a motor rider. According to Dabo, he contacted Don Little to learn more about the incident that had made headlines in the media, and Don Little provided a comprehensive account.
Contrary to media claims that Don Little was arrested by the police, Dabo clarified that this was not true. He explained that Don Little described the accident’s circumstances and clarified that he was not detained but rather released afterward.
Yaw Dabo disclosed how Don Little narrated the events leading to the accident and advised the public to be less critical, emphasizing that such incidents could happen to anyone.
“I spoke to Don Little after the incident, but he was not in police cells or something like that. He told me there was an emergency in which he was rushing one of his friends to the hospital. On his way, he met a motor rider whom he was honking for him to pave the way for him but it was not successful.
“The guy was getting closer to him when his car mirror hit him. There was a police officer present at that time so they took him to the police station. It was not like he was arrested by the police and put in a cell for what happened. This is part of life and it could happen to anyone,” Yaw Dabo said in a video shared by Express GH TV on their YouTube channel and sighted by GhanaWeb.
Recall that there were numerous media reports about Don Little being taken into custody by the police following his collision with a motorcycle rider.
baGospel musician Sonnie Badu recently voiced his frustration regarding the reluctance of various companies and organizations in Ghana to back events organized by gospel artists.
In a recent interview with Onua TV, monitored by GhanaWeb, Badu revealed the challenges he faced during his Rhythms of Africa concert, emphasizing the financial struggles encountered in securing sponsorship.
Badu disclosed that despite reaching out with sponsorship proposals to numerous companies and organizations for his concert, only a handful offered support.
The artist went on to share the extent of his financial strain, revealing that he had to sell his luxurious Rolex watch to raise funds for the event.
Expressing his concerns about the impact of insufficient funds on the Rhythms of Africa concert, Sonnie Badu highlighted the need for increased corporate support for gospel events in Ghana.
Interviewer: Your concert was very good. Those outside might say there were no challenges. Can you tell us some of the problems you faced in organizing the concert apart from your leg injury?
Sonnie Badu: We hardly got sponsorship and I don’t understand why when it comes to gospel music, people are not willing to support them while they follow. Maybe it’s a demon that is worrying us so God will help us.
Interviewer: Did you send sponsorship proposals to various companies to solicit support?
Sonnie Badu: We started planning this event almost five years ago so we did all of that.
Interviewer: Didn’t you get some at all?
Sonnie Badu: We got a few but if you compare it to the investment we made in the concert, it is like a drop in the ocean. I had to sell my Rolex watch to support the funding.
Sonnie Badu’s Rhythms of Africa concert was held on December 9, 2023, at the Grand Arena.
Joe Mettle, Piesie Esther, MOG Music, and other musicians were among those who performed at the event.
Charlie Dior recently criticized one of Celestine Donkor’s recent outfits, deeming it a significant fashion misstep.
The well-known Ghanaian fashion critic came across the gospel singer’s outfit, which he found to be “inappropriately casual,” at an outdoor event, prompting him to deliver a candid critique.
In the viral video capturing Celestine Donkor’s performance and interaction with the audience, she sported black slacks paired with a white blouse and a folded striped long-sleeved shirt. Completing the ensemble were white boots.
Expressing his reservations, Charlie Dior voiced his concern about the perceived lack of effort in her outfit, emphasizing how it might negatively impact her public image.
“It’s okay not to take fashion seriously but when I saw these boots, I fell off my back. I mean really? This is what you wear to the corner store or little kiosk to buy some agbelimo (cassava dough) or corn dough and quickly come back home to prepare some mori koko. Nobody is supposed to be seeing you in this look. This is what you wear when you run out of eggs or seasoning and you decide to quickly rush out of the house to get some.”
“We are not supposed to see you in these boots. Shoe lelele. Celestine Donkor, where is the effort? All the efforts went into the hair and makeup. And she was like f**k it, with the rest of the outfit. We are burning this look,” he established in excerpts of his fashion review show on Instagram.
Soon after, Celestine Donkor retaliated against Charlie Dior for making fun of her ensemble in the comments section.
“As long as it doesn’t affect the economy of Ghana trust me…you will see me in this look pleeeeeeeeenty…boots carry anointing la. Love you regardless. Your comedy cracks me up,” she responded.
Cardi Bhas broken up with her spouse, rapper Offset.
She revealed in a recent Instagram Live that she has been dropping hints that she and her partner are no longer together on social media.
“I’ve been single for a minute now, but I have been afraid to like… not afraid, I just don’t know how to tell the world. But I feel like today has been a sign,” she said. “The last time I got on Live, I kind of wanted to tell you guys. But I didn’t know how to tell you, so I changed my mind. But it has been like this for a minute now. I just took it as a sign.”
The “sign” she was referring to was some online messiness in which Offset’s name was part of an allegation of infidelity that he has denied on social media.
“I don’t think it’s true, I don’t care to find out,” Cardi B said of the chatter.
It seems like she would prefer to concentrate on the future.
“I want to start 2024, like, fresh, open,” she said during the IG Live. “I don’t know. I’m curious for a new life, for a new beginning. And yeah, I’m excited.”
In October 2017, the pair publicly announced their engagement when he proposed to her onstage. Subsequently, it was disclosed that they had privately tied the knot in his hometown of Atlanta in September of the same year.
Together, they share a daughter named Kulture, aged 5, and a son named Wave, aged 2.
Cardi B. and Offset have experienced multiple separations in the past, notably in 2018 when he made a grand gesture by crashing her performance at the Rolling Loud Festival in Los Angeles to plead for her reconciliation.
As of today, December 12, 2023, the Interbank forex rates released by the Bank of Ghana indicate that the Ghana Cedi is engaged in trading against the US Dollar at a buying rate of 11.6300 and a selling rate of 11.6416.
In the capital city, Accra, at a local Forex bureau, the exchange rate for the US Dollar stands at a buying price of 12.00 and a selling price of 12.25.
Against the Pound Sterling, the Ghana Cedi is listed at a buying rate of 14.5910 and a selling rate of 14.6067. In Accra’s Forex bureaus, the Pound Sterling is bought at 14.90 and sold at 15.40.
For the Euro, the trading rates are established at a buying price of 12.5277 and a selling price of 12.5401. In Accra, Forex bureaus are transacting the Euro at a buying rate of 12.80 and a selling rate of 13.30.
The South African Rand is currently valued at a buying rate of 0.6155 and a selling rate of 0.6161. Meanwhile, at Accra’s forex bureaus, the South African Rand is bought at 0.40 and sold at 1.10.
Concerning the Nigerian Naira, the buying rate is 71.7613, and the selling rate is 71.9332. In Accra, Forex bureaus are exchanging Nigerian Naira at a buying rate of 9.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi and selling at a rate of 15.00.
Finally, the CFA Franc is trading at a buying rate of 52.3088 and a selling rate of 52.3605. At Accra’s forex bureaus, the CFA is bought at a rate of 17.30 CFA for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 19.80 CFA for every 1 Cedi.
The renowned South African Afro-pop artist, Bulelwa Mkutukana, widely known as Zahara, has passed away, as announced by the country’s Culture Minister.
Zahara, celebrated for her award-winning album “Loliwe” in 2011, had been undergoing medical treatment in connection with liver complications, with government support extended to her family during this challenging period, according to Sports, Arts, and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa.
In 2019, Zahara candidly discussed her struggle with alcohol addiction, shedding light on her personal battles. Last month, her family confirmed her hospitalization and requested the South African community to keep her in their thoughts and prayers.
The news of Zahara’s passing emerged on Monday night in a Johannesburg hospital, as reported by the state-run SABC news website. Although an official statement from the family is pending, fans have already begun expressing their grief and sharing cherished memories on social media.
“Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music,” Mr Kodwa posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“She left us with such beautiful music,” one X user posted.
Having produced five albums and receiving numerous awards, both domestically and internationally, Zahara earned a spot on the BBC’s 100 Women list in 2020. Beyond her musical achievements, Zahara utilized her influential platform to address the issue of violence against women in South Africa, courageously sharing her own experiences with such incidents.
In a radio interview last year, Zahara emphasized that her musical pursuits were driven not by a quest for recognition but rather by a sincere desire to offer solace to troubled souls in need of healing.
In an age dominated by technological wonders, a 24-year-old Computer Science student at the University of Benin in Nigeria has unexpectedly garnered attention.
Recent reports circulating on social media claim that this IT student, acclaimed for an audacious achievement – clearing the debts of all MTN users, has been taken into custody.
The young prodigy, who gained online fame for his coding skills, allegedly accomplished the remarkable feat of eliminating the financial debts of MTN users in Nigeria.
According to initial reports, he navigated the intricate databases of MTN, a major telecommunications company, to miraculously erase the debts owed by numerous users.
His technological prowess, met with awe and admiration, took an unexpected turn when reports surfaced on social media, claiming the arrest of the student. Shared by @AkpraiseMedia, now X, this new development adds a layer of mystery to the unfolding saga.
The public is left pondering whether this IT prodigy, with shades of a modern-day Robin Hood, aimed to alleviate the financial burdens of the masses.
Some social media users, intrigued by the story, even suggest that MTN should consider employing him, recognizing his remarkable skills as a valuable addition to their IT team.
@iykephilip for instance commented -If the people running MTN is wise, what they should do is hire the guy… anyway, the people running the country na mumu if not they won’t be arresting him… I hope the people running MTN is wise!
@KingingMs – Employ him and learn from him, everything isn’t crime
Prominent member of the #FixtheCountry Movement, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has expressed solidarity with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in the wake of public criticism following the leakage of a memo.
The OSP, led by Kissi Agyebeng, faced backlash after a GhanaWeb report on December 10, 2023, revealed a request for GH¢30 million worth of vehicles.
The leaked memo outlined the OSP’s request for four types of armoured-plated vehicles and twelve types of soft/light-body vehicles, totaling GH¢29,952,000. This revelation triggered public disapproval.
Taking to social media platform X on Monday, December 11, 2023, Barker-Vormawor alleged that the government intentionally leaked the document to tarnish the image of the OSP in the eyes of Ghanaians. He claimed that the government has a history of leaking documents whenever Kissi Ageybeng voices concerns about the lack of necessary support to combat corruption.
Barker-Vormawor encouraged the special prosecutor not to lose hope, assuring him of the unwavering support of the Ghanaian people.
“The leak of a memo from the OSP office to the Ministry of Finance is such cheap and infantile politics that I do not understand why our Government continues to play this game.
“Every time the OSP complains about challenges it is facing, a new leak is engineered to undermine Kissi Agyebeng,” he wrote.
He added, “The task of fighting corruption demands that we be twice vigilant. If not we will be roped into the machinations of our oppressors. OSP continue! You have the people’s support!”
View the post below:
The leak of a memo from the OSP office to the Ministry of Finance, is such cheap and infantile politics that I do not understand why our Government continues to play this game.
Everytime the OSP complains about challenges it is facing, a new leak is engineered to undermine Kissi…
A self-proclaimed fetish priestess, Florence Amo, has been captured by the Eastern Region Police on charges of duping multiple bereaved families by falsely claiming responsibility for their loved ones’ deaths.
Amo’s alleged accomplice, Abraham Odotei, is currently evading arrest.
The modus operandi of the deceptive priestess involves scouring communities for obituary posters of relatively well-off bereaved families. She then approaches these families with concocted tales, asserting that the deceased had sought spiritual financial assistance, known locally as “Boame,” at her shrine. According to her narrative, the deceased’s failure to fulfill their end of the spiritual agreement resulted in their untimely demise.
Exploiting the vulnerability of grieving families, Amo proceeds to threaten them, insisting on performing elaborate rituals such as appeasing the gods and demanding substantial sums of money before allowing the deceased to be buried. She further warns that non-compliance will lead to ongoing deaths within the family, starting with those who organized the funeral.
Driven by fear, numerous families fell victim to her deception, paying significant amounts of money under duress.
Amo’s arrest came after a family filed a report detailing their previous encounter with her. Subsequent investigations uncovered multiple victims with similar complaints.
Florence Amo has been remanded by the Koforidua Circuit Court “B.” However, her defense counsel has failed to appear in court on two occasions for case management. During the latest court session, the prosecution expressed concern over the defense counsel’s absence, emphasizing that proceedings would continue without delay if a valid excuse was not provided.
Despite reluctance, the judge granted Amo’s plea for another adjournment, directing her to obtain the necessary disclosures. In the event of the defense counsel’s continued absence, case management will commence on the next adjourned date, scheduled for December 19, 2023.
The World Bank has allocated approximately US$150 million for the second phase of its West Africa Food System Resilience Programme (FSRP) in Ghana, Chad, and Sierra Leone.
Over one million individuals are expected to benefit from this five-year initiative, which aims to enhance food systems and risk management in the region, addressing shared challenges such as climate-related disruptions and natural disasters.
Implemented through Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture and various partners, the FSRP will focus on specific value chains, including rice, maize, soybeans, and broiler poultry, across 55 districts and ten regions.
Anchored on sustainability, ownership, and public-private engagement, the program aims to strengthen digital advisory services, enhance agricultural innovation systems, and facilitate food trade in West Africa.
Pierre Laporte, the Country Director of the World Bank, emphasized the project’s role in combating the global food and nutrition crisis and its potential to alleviate extreme poverty and malnutrition while safeguarding development gains.
“We all aim to ensure that the resources of this US$150million project are used in the most efficient way to reach the intended one million-plus beneficiaries, of whom 40 percent are intended to be women. It is also intended to continue expanding access to irrigation in the Kpong, Vea, Wheta and Tanoso schemes and inland valleys; increase adoption of climate smart technologies and services by nearly 250,000 farmers; bring digitised hydro and agrometeorological advisory services to at least 200,000 food systems actors; develop integrated landscape management plans and bring thousands of hectares of land under sustainable landscape management practices; and provide matching grants for agribusiness to maximise finance for development,” he said.
The project’s coordinator, Osei Owusu Agyeman, highlighted that the Ghana component of the initiative will focus on rehabilitating crucial equipment and infrastructure, including the CSIR, Regional Centres of Excellence, Plant Genetic Resources Research Institute (PGRRI), National Gene Bank, GLDB Seed Lab, and Veterinary Centers.
Additionally, the West Africa Food System Resilience Programme (FSRP) will facilitate inter-regional trade and knowledge-sharing through partnerships with ECOWAS, CORAF, and CILSS.
At the project’s launch in Kumasi, Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei-Mensah, representing the Minister of Food and Agriculture, emphasized the contribution of FSRP, similar to the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) phase-two, in enhancing the resilience of the country’s food systems.
He expressed gratitude to the World Bank for the project and assured support from his ministry and other stakeholders to achieve FSRP’s objectives.
“I call on all players in the value chain – civil society, the fourth estate, political players of all sides, traditional leaders, the youth and all passionate patriots – to come and join forces with us to wrestle food system risks hands-on until they are significantly subdued. I pledge my full backing for the task ahead, as we in Ghana play our efficient part in the charge against food system risks in the West African sub-region,” the minister added.
Coconut oil has witnessed a surge in popularity recently, driven by its myriad benefits, resulting in an expanded market for the product.
According to Ebenezer Denzel Amanor, a health writer for Surveillance Ghana, the global coconut oil market, valued at $4.813.09 billion in 2022, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.82%, reaching $6.758.83 billion by 2028.
Coconut oil, known for its natural, sustainable, and versatile properties, finds applications in cooking, skincare, hair care, and medicine.
The cosmetic industry utilizes it for making massage cream and hair oil, thanks to its skin-nourishing attributes.
The rising popularity of coconut oil is attributed to its rich nutrients that contribute to weight management, brain function, and heart health.
Additionally, the increasing awareness of plant-based diets and veganism among consumers is driving a surge in demand for coconut oil.
The Philippines leads as the largest global exporter of coconuts, contributing over 20% of total coconut exports, followed by Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Papua New Guinea, and Mexico. Notably, the United States, United Arab Emirates, and Canada stand out as the prominent importers of coconut oil.
