In a social media debate today, users have passionately discussed and deliberated on the top 10 Ghanaian gospel artists of all time.
The engaging conversation, initiated by a user who posed the question across various platforms, has elicited a range of opinions and sparked nostalgic reflections as fans delve into the impactful careers of their favorite gospel musicians.
Names like Elder Mireku, Daughters of Glorious Jesus, Joe Mettle, Ohemaa Mercy, and others frequently surface as users share their lists, demonstrating the depth of talent and history in Ghana’s gospel music scene.
The discussion has sparked discussions about the history of gospel music in Ghana and how it has influenced modern Christian worship in addition to being a trip down memory lane.
Six prominent business associations, collectively known as the Joint Business Consultative Forum, have submitted a petition to Parliament, urging lawmakers to reject the import restrictions bill proposed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
The forum includes key organizations such as the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI).
Expressing their concerns in the petition dated Sunday, November 26, the forum outlined potential detrimental effects of the bill on their businesses. They argue that if enacted, the legislation could adversely impact the prices of goods, disrupt the free flow of goods, and pose potential harm to businesses. The business associations collectively advocate for a reconsideration of the proposed import restrictions to safeguard the interests of the business community.
“We vehemently oppose this LI and would appreciate its immediate rejection by Parliament to allow for proper consultations and dialogue to take place.”
“We strongly oppose this LI on the following grounds: The price of most products mentioned in the Ministry of Trade and Industry policy proposal will result in serious price hikes, as competition will be severely restricted.”
They added that “The Minister is the ultimate decision maker on which companies end up trading in each of these items. This will eventually lead to a monopolistic or oligopolistic position for a few select businesses in the country at the expense of many smaller businesses.”
Meanwhile, when the Minister tried to introduce the Legislative Instrument (LI) before the House, the Minority objected for the second time. The LI aims to limit the importation of a few specific strategic products, including rice, chicken, and sugar.
Ghana’s trade balance witnessed significant growth, reaching US$2.058 billion in October 2023, equivalent to 2.7% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
According to the Bank of Ghana’s November 2023 Summary of Economic and Financial Data, the trade balance increased by US$310 million between July and October, marking a 16% rise from the July 2023 figure of US$1.75 billion.
This year-on-year growth represents a 10 percentage points increase from the US$1.85 billion recorded in October 2022.
Total exports for October amounted to US$13.45 billion, compared to US$11.47 billion in July 2023. However, there is a 6.5% decline in total exports compared to the same period last year when it stood at US$14.36 billion.
Gold remains the highest contributor to exports, bringing in $6.07 billion, followed by crude oil exports totaling $3.06 billion, and cocoa with $1.70 billion.
As of September 30, Ghana’s balance of payment remained negative with a deficit of $617 million, accounting for 0.8% of GDP.
The current account balance is at $1.04 billion, representing 1.4% of GDP. The Capital and Financial Account Balance reported a $1.47 billion deficit.
In October 2023, Gross International Reserves were $5.15 billion, indicating nearly Net International Reserves of US$2.15 billion and providing 2.4 months of import cover.
The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, issued a statement on Monday, November 27, stating their intent to resist the government’s attempt to grant tax exemptions to 45 companies presented as One-District-One-Factory entities and Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) strategic investors.
Dr. Forson alleged that the government and its associates, driven by greed, are focusing on tax revenues, jeopardizing the economy with an alarming increase in the number of companies seeking tax exemptions under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.
Currently, he indicated, “there are about 45 companies that have been presented to Parliament as one- district-one-factory companies, GIPC strategic investors, etc, to be exempted from the payment of taxes. In total, Government is asking Parliament to grant tax exemptions to the tune of USD449,446,247.95 for these 45 companies. That is the equivalent of over five and a half (5.5) billion Ghana cedis!
“Because this is an issue that impacts our economy significantly, we have compiled a full list of all the 45 companies and their respective exemptions being requested. As a Minority in Parliament, we have a duty to let the Ghanaian taxpayer who is being burdened with all manner of taxes, know this truth.
“We are further told that there are a total of 118 companies being processed at the Ministry of Trade & Industry, Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre to be brought to Parliament for tax exemptions. The total value of exemptions for these 118 companies is about seven billion Ghana cedis! It is the considered view of the Minority that these requests for tax exemptions running into several billions of Cedis, are unconscionable, inordinate and bear all the trappings of organised crime.
“Ghanaians would recall the strange events on the floor of Parliament sometime this year, specifically on 28th July, 2023. On that occasion, the Minister of Trade and Industry, K.T Hammond, backed by the Chairman of the Trade Committee of Parliament, Carlos Ahenkorah, ganged up against one of their own and Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Kweku Kwarteng, accusing him of frustrating certain tax waivers. Their concern was that Parliament was conducting the necessary due diligence into these requests to ensure that the Ghanaian people are not shortchanged. Why the indecent haste, if we may ask?
“We in the Minority are serving notice that we shall resist these tax waiver applications fiercely! In their current forms, we shall resist each and every one of the tax waiver applications with all the tools and strategies at our disposal.”
Below is the full statement…
PRESS RELEASE
MINORITY EXPRESSES CONCERN ABOUT TAX EXEMPTIONS, THE NEW KICKBACK
Ghana’s economy is going through one of the most difficult times in our history. The near collapse of our economy, occasioned by a combination of reckless mismanagement and crass ineptitude of the current government, has compelled Ghanaians to endure a painful domestic debt exchange programme and some of the most stringent austerity measures under an IMF program.
Our economic woes have been far from over, as we are currently in talks with our external and bilateral creditors, including China, to forgive us or cancel, at least, a part of our national debt. This is a pre-condition to enable us access the second tranche of USD600 million as part of the USD3 billion IMF Extended Credit Facility.
It stands to reason therefore, that now more than ever, we need all the domestic revenue we can mobilise to prevent our economy from sinking further. Unfortunately, amid all the turbulence the economy is experiencing, people whose actions and inactions have already hurt this economy badly, want to use tax exemption as a new way of enriching themselves further at the expense of the state.
The reasons for our assertion are not far-fetched. As we speak, most of our traditional creditors who used to lend us money have shut their doors in our face. As a result, Ghana has no borrowed funds with which to give out contracts for projects. This also means that the corruption-induced money that government officials got by inflating contracts and receiving kick-backs is also diminishing.
To satisfy their insatiable greed, people who are used to living on the proceeds of corruption have turned their attention to tax revenue. The suspicion that public officers sometimes accept bribes from private businesses in order to assist them escape taxation is an old one. However, the escalation in the sheer number of companies being presented to Parliament as candidates for tax exemption under this Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government, is frightening.
Currently, there are about 45 companies that have been presented to Parliament as one- district-one-factory companies, GIPC strategic investors, etc, to be exempted from the payment of taxes. In total, Government is asking Parliament to grant tax exemptions to the tune of USD449,446,247.95 for these 45 companies. That is the equivalent of over five and a half (5.5) billion Ghana cedis!
Because this is an issue that impacts our economy significantly, we have compiled a full list of all the 45 companies and their respective exemptions being requested.
As a Minority in Parliament, we have a duty to let the Ghanaian taxpayer who is being burdened with all manner of taxes, know this truth.
We are further told that there are a total of 118 companies being processed at the Ministry of Trade & Industry, Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre to be brought to Parliament for tax exemptions. The total value of exemptions for these 118 companies is about seven billion Ghana cedis!
It is the considered view of the Minority that these requests for tax exemptions running into several billions of Cedis, are unconscionable, inordinate and bear all the trappings of organised crime.
Ghanaians would recall the strange events on the floor of Parliament sometime this year, specifically on 28th July, 2023. On that occasion, the Minister of Trade and Industry, K.T Hammond, backed by the Chairman of the Trade Committee of Parliament, Carlos Ahenkorah, ganged up against one of their own and Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Kweku Kwarteng, accusing him of frustrating certain tax waivers. Their concern was that Parliament was conducting the necessary due diligence into these requests to ensure that the Ghanaian people are not shortchanged. Why the indecent haste, if we may ask?
We in the Minority are serving notice that we shall resist these tax waiver applications fiercely! In their current forms, we shall resist each and every one of the tax waiver applications with all the tools and strategies at our disposal.
We shall give support to these requests only on condition that any company that seeks tax waiver or exemption shall cede commensurate equity stake in their investment projects or business to the State in accordance with section 14(3) and section 15 of the Exemptions Act, 2022 (Act 1083).
Ladies and gentlemen, the phenomenon of tax exemption as an avenue for corruption is a frightening development that threatens the domestic revenue reforms that the state is currently undertaking.
As we speak, government is seeking to rake in some GHS11 billion from a plethora of new tax measures it has outlined in the 2024 budget. The effect of these new taxes will result in the poor becoming poorer, suffocating industry and businesses and further increasing the hardships Ghanaians are already experiencing.
This government is simply robbing Peter to pay Paul by exacting taxes from Ghanaians, only to dole out huge tax exemptions to their cronies for kickbacks. It is for this reason that we call on all Ghanaians to join us in this fight.
An X user, @Oh_Menua, has expressed skepticism about the choice of a Belgian individual, Shellie Abbiusi, who has been made spokesperson for #TheNewForce, a new political movement concealed in a mask.
@Oh_Menua contends that, Shellie Abbiusi’s reputation lacks the necessary respect for such a position.
He alleges that the young Belgian woman engages in smoking and is linked to the persona of a slay queen.
Leading him to characterize the ambition of #TheNewForce to become president as “dead on arrival.”
“Ashock give Cheddar @iamfreedom. #TheNewForce is dead on arrival. Lebanese GHOne TV Shisha smokn slay queen as spksperson? How?. She can’t even spk twi and any local lang. @SammyGyamfi_ and @sammiawuku will crash this,” the social media user stated.
A new political movement currently leading discussions due to the anonymity of the faces behind it.
This anonymity has been associated with Dr Samuel Sarpong Ankrah, who has also denied the claim.
Presently, the Ghanaian millionaire and business magnate, Freedom Jacob Caesar, widely recognized as Cheddar, appears to be dispelling all uncertainties and affirming that he is the individual behind the anonymity.
The complete confirmation of this remains uncertain, leading Ghanaians to anticipate an official revelation of the identity of this aspiring president.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has affirmed that Ghana’s economy is on the path to recovery, signaling a turnaround for growth and development.
These remarks were made during his address at the Valedictory Service for the outgoing Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana on Sunday.
“I want to assure you that the Akufo-Addo government is working hard to return the economy to a high rate of growth and characterize the management of the economy in the years preceding the COVID outbreak in 2020, which made the economy one of the fastest-growing in the world at the time.
“We can only do so if we forge ahead in unity and faith and have the belief that by the grace of Almighty God, the fortunes of Ghana under the presidency of Nana Akufo-Addo will be restored. I know times have been bad, but it is clear that our economy is rebounding back, and we are turning back the corner to growth and development,” he said.
He added “To get here, we had to take some difficult and hard decisions. The policies and programs we are implementing are meant to address the challenges, and it is evident that they are doing so.
“Nevertheless, I will continue to need your understanding and active cooperation. We can make it if all of us work at it.”
Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has expressed the government’s commitment to uphold discipline for the sake of economic stability.
He noted that the government has navigated through economic challenges and successfully concluded the first review of the 3-year, 3 billion International Monetary Fund External Credit Facility (IMF-ECF) program.
He further assured that the government is poised to “maintain stability and keep growing. and ensure increased growth, currency stability”
“We turned the corner when inflation started declining from 54 1 in December to 35.2 in October 2023, he added.
“The recovery is indeed real and is here to stay,” he further assured.
Mr. Ofori-Atta went on to say that the ongoing economic recovery is primarily due to the swift implementation of aggressive fiscal and monetary policy measures during the past year and in the first half of 2023.
“So far, growth in 2023 has been more resilient than expected, inflation has declined in line with the fundamentals, the fiscal and external balances have improved, and the exchange rate has stabilised,” he said.
Mid-Year 2023 Trade Report by the GhanaStatistical Service, has it that food products constitute 23.9% of total exports in the first half of 2023. Conversely, imports of food products accounted for 13.3% of total imports.
Among food imports, five categories make up more than 50.0%: Cereals and Grains Products (22.8%), Animal or Vegetable Fats and Oils (12.7%), meat (9.5%), and sugar products (8.6%).
Over 64.9% of all food exports are cocoa products, showcasing diversification across various countries. The primary exported food products, edible fruits and nuts, are predominantly sent to India (48.4%) and Vietnam (27.1%).
For the five primary food import products (grains, animals or vegetable fats and oils, meat, cereals, and sugar products), only three countries contribute to over half of the imports of these products.
In terms of trade within Africa, Ghana’s exports to African countries in the first half of 2023 were estimated at ¢19.3 billion, constituting 22.0% of total exports. Imports to other countries amounted to ¢7.7 billion, less than half the value of exports to African countries. Imports to African countries made up 9.1% of total imports.
Within the African continent, Ghana exports to 49 countries, the same number it imports from. More than half of all exports within Africa go to South Africa (55.4%), followed by Burkina Faso (12.9%), Côte d’Ivoire (6.9%), and Togo (6.0%). Exports to South Africa are more than twice the exports of these three countries combined (25.8%).
South Africa (20.5%), Egypt (19.6%), and Morocco (10.7%) collectively constitute half of imports (50.8%) from African countries.
Ismail Sherif, popularly known as Black Sherif, has consistently garnered attention not only for his music but also for his bold and flamboyant fashion preferences.
Referred to as BLACKO, the artist has embraced a fashion sense that mirrors the fearless and unapologetic nature of his song lyrics.
During his debut performance in Gambia on November 25th, where he showcased his talents as the VGMA Artiste of The Year, Black Sherif’s fashion choices proved to be just as daring and impactful as his music.
Black Sherif’s electrifying debut performance in Gambia
In videos circulating on social media, Sherif is seen delivering an electrifying performance to a large audience in Gambia, capturing their enthusiasm and energy in return.
Yet, it wasn’t solely his performance that grabbed the audience’s attention.
Black Sherif’s costume for the occasion, while maintaining his characteristic boldness, marked a departure from his usual oversized trousers, adding an extra layer of intrigue to his stage presence.
Sherif donned an ensemble that appeared to be traditionally feminine, drawing criticism from his social media fans in Ghana.
Where Black Sherif’s costume and the Gambian culture intersect
As it happens, Black Sherif paid tribute to the cultural heritage of his Gambian audience by adopting attire reminiscent of the Kankurang.
The red fiber-like appearance of his costume was evidently inspired by this Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Kankurang is a spirit-masked figure present in Mandinka communities in Senegal and The Gambia.
AP PHOTOS: In Gambia, Kankurang initiation rite teaches boys via AP News
It symbolizes protection and order, believed to wield supernatural powers. The Kankurang is usually embodied by a young man who undergoes a period of initiation.
The Kankurang frequently makes appearances at ceremonies and festivals, serving as a means to educate young people about their cultural heritage and traditions.
Black Sherif is not the first to find fashion inspiration in Gambian culture. The Kankurang has influenced modern fashion in various ways, with designers incorporating elements of its mask and costume into clothing and accessories. Some designers have crafted masks inspired by the Kankurang’s, while others utilize red fiber and leaves to create attire reminiscent of its costume.
As the date for his headline concert, Zaama Disco in Ghana approaches, anticipation builds for what Black Sherif will bring to the stage, encompassing both his fashion choices and, of course, his musical performance.
From January to October 2023, the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga lost 25 low birth weight babies, according to Dr. Gillian Bogee, Head of the Newborn Care Unit.
She said that 530 of the 1152 preterm infants admitted to the unit during that time were low birth weight.
“We lost 25 of these low-birth-weight babies out of the 530, and these 25 of the low-birth-weight babies that passed on were not actually on the Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC).
“They were on the ward being managed for other serious medical conditions, and some were also referred from the neighbouring facilities into the Regional Hospital with serious medical conditions,” she explained.
During the hospital’s World Prematurity Month celebration launch this year, Dr. Bogee made this announcement in a press interview.
The month of November is usually celebrated as prematurity month, and this year’s celebration was on the theme: “Small Actions, Big Impact: Immediate Skin-to-Skin for Every Baby Everywhere.”
Premature babies were the second most common reason for admission among the 1200–1500 newborns that the Unit admitted each year, according to her.
“Almost half of the babies we received at the Newborn Care Unit were low birth weight babies,” she said.
Dr Bogee, who is a Paediatrician, emphasized the need for expectant mothers to take Ante-Natal Care (ANC) services seriously, saying “We know that it is during the ANC that all these complications are picked up.
“So, if expectant mothers do not attend the ANC, their Blood Pressures are not checked, urine proteins are not done, the mothers live unhealthy lifestyles, and that can even make the uterine environment very unfavourable for the baby,”
It may predispose expectant mothers to preterm delivery, according to Dr. Bogee, who emphasized the significance of ANC attendance.
“Everything starts from the ANC. If they do not really start the ANC early, or they do not go for the ANC at all, that is when they have some of these complications,” the Newborn Care Unit Head said.
Dr. Bogee conveyed his appreciation to the Unit’s employees for their commitment to work, the Regional Health Directorate, the hospital’s management, UNICEF, KOICA, JICA, BONABOTO-UK, CRS, Fountain Gate Chapel, Action Chapel International, and all the charitable people and organizations that have supported the Unit over the years.
The hospital’s medical director, Dr. Aiden Suntaa Saanwie, stated that although the Newborn Care Unit faces difficulties, it has made some progress since its establishment in 2014.
“Key among them is the establishment of a KMC Unit. When we started, we had just a three-bed capacity, now we have a 10-bed capacity Unit, which is an expansion. The KMC is an important cost-effective way of managing premature babies,” he said.
KMC is the act of putting a baby skin-to-skin on the mother in a kangaroo position.
Dr Saanwie said preterm babies were prone to various kinds of infections, and should be effectively managed, “So we as an institution have developed clear protocols which guide how we manage these cases.
“The most recent one was when we managed a baby that was delivered at 26 weeks. That is the record in this hospital,” the Medical Director said and further used the occasion to appeal for more baby incubators to augment the six functioning incubators in the Newborn Care Unit.
In a recent episode of Ghana’s TV3 #LadiesCircle show, socialite and entrepreneurStephanie Benson raised eyebrows with a bold statement, asserting that there is “at least a 70% chance you might die from getting a BBL” (Brazilian butt lift).
During the discussion, Stephanie Benson shared insights into her own health challenges and recovery from a surgical procedure involving the removal of her gallbladder while dealing with cancer.
She emphasized that the risk of dying during a BBL is higher compared to liposuction, citing multiple studies that support this assertion.
Benson went on to claim that “top surgeons in the UK and America” avoid performing BBL procedures, and she revealed the unfortunate death of a close friend who underwent the same procedure.
This statement has triggered concerns about the safety of Brazilian butt lift procedures, fueling a broader debate on the risks associated with cosmetic surgery.
What is a Brazilian butt lift (BBL)?
A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), also referred to as gluteal augmentation or buttock augmentation, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of the buttocks.
This involves the transfer of fat from other regions of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips, to the buttocks, typically performed via CreoClinic.
What are the risks involved in getting a BBL?
BBL carries inherent risks. Similar to any surgical procedure, there is a potential for complications, some of which may pose life-threatening risks. These complications include:
Fat embolism: This occurs when fat enters the bloodstream and travels to the lungs or brain, potentially causing blockage and death.
Infection: Infection is a serious risk with any surgery, and BBL is no exception. Infection can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
Hematoma: A hematoma is a collection of blood that can form under the skin. In the case of BBL, a hematoma can compress nearby organs and cause serious complications.
Tissue necrosis: This occurs when tissue dies due to lack of blood flow. Tissue necrosis can lead to scarring, deformities, and even amputation.
Is Stephanie Benson’s claim accurate?
Stephanie Benson’s assertion of a “70% chance you might die from getting a BBL” lacks evidential support.
The mortality rate for BBL is estimated to range between 0.1% and 0.3%, significantly lower than the 70% figure mentioned by Benson.
A 2018 study published in the journal Aesthetic Surgery reported a BBL mortality rate of 0.32% in the United States.
While this rate is higher than that of liposuction (0.14%) and tummy tucks (0.21%), it does not align with Benson’s claim.
Despite the decline in mortality rates in recent years, evidence supports Benson’s statement that BBL is considered one of the more dangerous cosmetic surgeries.
Procedure
Mortality Rate (per 3,000 procedures)
Brazilian butt lift (BBL)
1-7.2
Liposuction
0.5
Tummy tuck
0.7
Breast augmentation
0.1
Rhinoplasty
0.4
It is crucial to remember that the risk of complications from BBL can change based on a number of variables, such as the experience of the surgeon, the general health of the patient, and the particular techniques employed.
Kobbie Mainoo’s commanding display as a midfielder for Manchester United in their 3-0 victory over Everton has triggered fervent appeals on social media for his inclusion in the Ghanaian national team.
The 18-year-old midfielder delivered a stellar performance at Goodison Park on Sunday, November 26, 2023, contributing significantly to United’s resounding away win, their most substantial in the Premier League over the past two seasons.
Mainoo’s dominance in the midfield earned praise from Manchester United players and coaches alike, with club legend Neville lauding him for his outstanding performance.
The young talent’s notable contribution has ignited discussions and calls on social media for his potential involvement with the Ghanaian national team.
“There’s an 18-year-old out thGaryere who looks more composed than anyone,” said Neville on co-commentary during the game.
“Mainoo has been Manchester United’s best player by a street. A brilliant, brilliant Premier League debut from him.”
The midfielder for Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes, declared Kobbie Mainoo to be his Man of the Match in a post-match interview.
He claimed that the teenager is very talented and error-free for his age.
“A great match. For me, he is the man of the match. He put in a great performance. He is comfortable with the ball and never makes a mistake. For his age he has so much qualities. He sees things before others,” Bruno Fernandes said after the win over Everton.
Mainoo, who was born in Stockport, England, is qualified to represent Ghana because both of his parents are Ghanaians.
In addition, Mainoo, who has been living with his parents in England since his birth, is a player.
People from Ghana are pleading with him to choose Ghana over England on social media, demanding that he be added to the Black Stars.
Mainoo is a baller. If he chooses to play for Ghana while Kudus is doing a madness, that Premier League x GH combo might be back in a big way. pic.twitter.com/A6JgSduMfY
A rising Ghanaian artist, ChillyWay, is making significant strides in the music industry with his unique sound and captivating lyrics. Recently, his international acclaim has grown, with radio stations in Europe featuring his songs.
ChillyWay’s journey to success in the music realm has been marked by challenges typical for a young artist finding his footing. Despite industry obstacles, his determination to carve a niche for himself remained unwavering.
His resilience has yielded results, earning him recognition in Ghana’s music scene and beyond. His breakout single, “Bigboy,” is gaining traction on various music platforms, and his music videos have garnered positive responses worldwide.
ChillyWay stands out by seamlessly blending traditional Ghanaian music with contemporary influences, crafting a distinctive and engaging sound that resonates across diverse audiences. His lyrics delve into societal issues, showcasing his commitment to using music as a medium for meaningful storytelling.
Beyond his musical talents, ChillyWay is known for philanthropic endeavors, consistently giving back to his community and supporting local initiatives. His goal is to inspire fellow young artists to pursue their dreams authentically, regardless of challenges.
Under the management of FT Entertainment, ChillyWay anticipates working on new music and collaborations. His unwavering dedication and innovative musical approach position him as a potential global sensation.
As ChillyWay continues to push boundaries, fans can anticipate more releases in the coming months, solidifying his lasting impact on the music industry. Watch out for this young Ghanaian artist, poised to make waves on the international music scene.
Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, responds to persistent complaints from Ghanaian car users about fuel-related malfunctions.
During a November 26, 2023, interview on Joynews, Abdul-Hamid clarified that the Ghana Standards Authority, responsible for setting standards for consumables, including petroleum products, has established the acceptable limit for manganese content in gasoline (petrol) at 18 milligrams per liter.
“When it comes to standards for everything Ghana has an Authority called the Ghana Standards Authority that sets standards for every consumable including petroleum products, and petroleum products are made up of various chemical components; there is sulphur, there is lead, there is manganese, et cetera. So the parameter for acceptable maximum limit in our country for gasoline in particular is 18 milligrams per a litre. That is the maximum ceiling,” he said.
He elaborated that petroleum products imported in previous years exhibited low levels of manganese concentrate. However, in recent times, there has been a shift in this trend, albeit still within the standard set by the Ghana Standards Authority.
“Fortunately for us over the years all the petroleum products that have been coming have very low manganese levels of two litre, three litre; maximum has always been six. But recently we got a few cargoes whose levels went to about sixteen, sixteen was the maximum which is acceptable.”
Dr. Hamid emphasized that the high concentration of manganese concentrate falls within the permitted limit, but pointed out that certain automakers, including those affected, have their concentrate specified below the Standards Authority’s limit.
“However, these days some turbocar engine manufacturers are beginning to require that fuel that is put in a particular vehicle should not exceed a certain manganese levels. Unfortunately for us we don’t read car manuals.”
Dr Abdul-Hamid thus highlighted proactive steps taken by the NPA to address the issue.
“However, we have taken proactive steps to require Ghana Standards Authority to amend the upper limit and reduce it to six milligrams of manganese content per litre in the case of what they call Ron 91, that’s the normal petrol and two milligrams per litre in the case of what they call V Power,” he said.
Nonetheless, he denied assertions that the government’s barter Gold-for-Oil program is to blame for the high manganese concentrate fuel.
Editor-in-Chief of New Crusading Guide newspaper, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako, has unveiled comprehensive information regarding the individual purportedly responsible for the 2015 sale of the Clerk of Parliament’s residence in Cantonments, Accra.
Through two distinct letters shared on Facebook, Baako has illuminated the transactions believed to have taken place in 2015.
The initial letter, dated 23rd June 2015, and signed by the Regional Lands Officer on behalf of the Minister of Water Resources, Works, and Housing, acknowledges the receipt of a letter (No. SCR/LCS/GAR .0115) dated 22nd June 2015.
The document, labeled “Application for Government Land-Accra,” indicates that the concerned property is part of the Accra Residential Properties Redevelopment Scheme.
According to the correspondence, the property, occupied by a serving officer, necessitated relocation due to the agreement. Notably, an amount of Six Hundred Thousand Cedis (GH¢ 600,000.00) was specified as the provision for a replacement bungalow for the said officer.
The subsequent letter, dated 18th August 2015, unveiled a Lease Agreement between the President of the Republic of Ghana, represented by Nii OkaIIa Adamafio, Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Lands Commission at the time, and Rona Construction Company Limited.
This lease, extending over fifty years from 1st July 2015 to 30th June 2065, purportedly pertains to the plot in the Cantonments Residential Area where the Clerk of Parliament’s residence is located.
Rona Construction Company Limited, the lessee, is said to have made significant payments covering premium, development charge, and the cost of replacing the bungalow.
Meanwhile, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, informed Parliament that the current Clerk to Parliament’s residence was sold to a private developer in 2015, contradicting earlier claims of a 2019 transaction. He clarified that the property was allocated during the previous administration’s tenure, as evidenced by records at the Lands Commission.
“The then Minister of Works and Housing gave an offer to a private developer in 2015 and a lease was granted to the developer in 2015,” he said.
CEO of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Shaykh Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, has contested the idea that politics is a “dirty” game.
Dr. Abdul-Hamid emphasized during an appearance on JoyNews’ The Probe that it is not politics per se that could damage its image, but rather specific people acting in self-interest.
“Politics is not dirty; it is dirty people who make politics dirty. Politics is a noble calling. It is a calling to serve,” he said on Sunday November 26 2023.
In reference to his religious beliefs, the Shaykh underscored the accountability inherent in political stewardship. Quoting the Prophet Mohammed, he emphasized the universal responsibility of individuals as shepherds, accountable on the Day of Judgment.
This accountability, he clarified, extends to his roles in various ministries, including Information, Zongo Development, and the National Petroleum Authority. The NPA CEO encouraged a positive perception of religious figures in politics, asserting that those accountable to a higher authority are more likely to act with integrity.
He highlighted the guiding role of conscience and awareness of accountability to a higher power, fostering responsible and ethical political conduct.
“For us, religious people should do politics because it is we who believe that we have an account to give on our stewardship on earth,” he told host, Emefa Apawu.
The Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam George, sparks controversy, labeling NPP’s Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia a “religious prostitute,” questioning his suitability for the presidency.
An Accra High Court Commercial Division has dismissed a GH¢39.7 million claim made by Magnate Technology and Services against the Ghana Revenue Authority for breach of agreement.
The amount, the company said, would have been revenue or fees that would have accrued to it over the remaining period or unexpired term of the Addendum based on the average of the historically verifiable figures between the parties.
The court, in its ruling, held that it was unable to grant the reliefs being sought as there was not enough evidence from Plaintiff (Magnate Technology and Services) for it to accept the claim that was based on an illegal contract.
It said there was no evidence before the court showing the investment made over the period, revenue recouped over the course of performance and the deficit suffered.
“I am inclined to make an order for the Plaintiff to recoup its investment but as l have stated above, the paucity of evidence does not offer any guidance.There is not sufficient evidence on record for me to know the exact investment made by the Plaintif,” HIS Lordship Justice Constant K. Hometowu, said in his ruling.
“Simply stating in letters that over USD7million dollars has been invested is not sufficient under the circumstances,” the court said.
“The grant of this relief would be an enforcement of the contract I have established to be illegal. If I were to grant such relief, I would be condoning the statutory breach and granting immunity to the parties.
“I am unable to make an order for the Plaintiff to recoup its investment because there is nothing to assist me determine the deficit (if any) based on the reconciliation of investment made and revenue so far made,” the court said.
Consequently, Justice Hometowu declared in his ruling that the action is dismissed in its entirety, with no order as to costs.
In its writ of summons, Magnate Technology and Services sought various reliefs, including a true interpretation of the Agreement, restoration to its previous position, a claim for breach of contract, special damages amounting to GHS39.7 million (representing the minimum revenue it would have earned if the Agreement were not wrongfully terminated), interest from June 1, 2020, to the date of payment, and legal costs of GHS3 million.
The case originated from an Agreement entered into in September 2007 between Magnate Technology and Services and the Ghana Revenue Authority following an international bidding process. The Agreement, which involved providing a system for securing all bonded warehouses in the country, was initially set for a 10-year period. However, actual operations commenced in August 2010, three years after the Agreement’s execution, primarily due to administrative delays on the part of the beneficiary agency, the then Ghana Customs Excise and Preventive Service.
Structured as a long-term public-private partnership, the Agreement placed the onus of funding exclusively on Magnate Technology and Services, granting the company exclusive rights to provide services in Ghana to recoup its investments.
During the 10-year period, the fee structure was agreed upon as 95% for Magnate Technology and 5% for the GRA. Following claimed heavy investments exceeding USD 7 million by Magnate Technology, the GRA acknowledged the need for a revised fee structure. Consequently, an Addendum was executed for a further six-year term, with a new fee structure of 97% for Magnate Technology and 3% for the GRA.
In its defence, the GRA contended that the Addendum did not constitute a renewal but rather a new contract, requiring approval from the Public Procurement Authority and the Ministry of Finance. The GRA asserted that the Addendum, executed after the Agreement’s purported expiration in August 2017, lacked legal basis, as the date of execution could not be ascertained. The GRA also emphasized that correspondence between the parties occurred after the Agreement’s expiration, and based on the original 10-year term, it expected Magnate Technology to have recouped its investment and made a reasonable profit.
The GRA asserted that “the Addendum executed to the original Agreement is invalid and ill procured on the basis that the amendment or variation was not made during the subsistence of the initial Agreement.”
The GRA asserted that the parties could not have executed an addendum to the expired contract, contending that the Addendum lacked crucial statutory approval, rendering it illegally procured and, therefore, void and unenforceable.
In its ruling, the court emphasized that the uncontested evidence on record supported the existence of a Main Agreement executed by the parties in September 2007. However, the court determined that the execution of the Addendum violated ACT 663 as amended and ACT 921, both designed to safeguard the public purse by ensuring the prudent use of state resources. The court underscored the necessity for strict compliance with these statutes.
Interestingly, despite the original Agreement being executed by the Ministry of Finance, the Addendum conspicuously lacked the signature of any representative from the Ministry of Finance. Neither party provided an explanation for the absence of the Ministry of Finance, a pivotal party to the original Agreement.
Ghana is actively addressing the global climate crisis through the implementation of 34 mitigation actions across key sectors such as energy, transport, forestry, waste, and industry.
According to Madam Audrey Quarcoo, the Director of Corporate Affairs at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these actions are projected to result in a significant reduction of 64 million tonnes in emissions by the year 2030.
Currently emitting approximately 60 million tonnes (1.9 per capita), Ghana surpasses the global average of 4.6 per capita. Without intervention, the country could face a projection of 100 million tonnes by 2030 under the “do nothing scenario.”
Madam Quarcoo shared these insights at the National Pre-COP meeting for Ghana, a crucial event leading up to COP 28 in Dubai.
The meeting brought together experts, policymakers, negotiators, and representatives to contribute their insights and shape Ghana’s stance on the global stage.
“Additionally, the country aspires to create over one million green jobs by 2030 and prevent 2,900 premature deaths through improved air quality,” she added.
The commitment to addressing climate change has been evident in various initiatives, such as the development of the Article 6 framework on the carbon market, the ongoing National Adaptation Planning Readiness Project, and the Sustainable Cocoa-Forest Programme.
However, the recent report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emphasizes the inadequacy of current global mitigation pledges.
“These pledges projected a 45 per cent reduction necessary to limit the rise in Earth’s temperature to below1.5 degree goal”.
Madam Quarcoo highlighted that despite Africa contributing only 3.6% to global emissions, the continent remains susceptible to severe impacts of climate change.
Mr Kwaku Afriyie, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, noted in his address that several crucial measures were implemented before the PRECOP meeting.
These measures included the establishment of a Central Planning Committee chaired by MESTI to plan and coordinate Ghana’s preparations for COP, participation during COP, and reporting after COP.
Additionally, two high-level Inter-Ministerial meetings on COP28 among Sector Ministers were conducted to deliberate and offer guidance to the planning Committee.
Member of Parliament for Tamale South under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Haruna Iddrisu, is advocating for an increase in the budgetary allocation for the Electoral Commission (EC) outlined in the 2024 Budget Statement, which currently stands at GH¢786 million.
Expressing his concerns, he deems the allocated GH¢786 million as significantly insufficient, emphasizing that the Electoral Commission requires more resources to effectively conduct the District Assemblies Election scheduled for December and the subsequent Presidential and Parliamentary Elections in December of the following year.
This call for an increased budgetary allocation was presented by the Tamale South Lawmaker during his contribution to the ongoing debate on the 2024 Budget on the floor of Parliament in Accra.
“And Mr Speaker, this is what has been provided for them in the Budget, go and make a case for them, it is not enough.”
Speaking about the electoral body’s voter registration process, Mr. Iddrisu mentioned that the Minority had been vehemently arguing in the House that the EC should not proceed with voter registration in the absence of the Guarantor System.
He pointed out that while the EC had been promoting the use of the Ghana Card for voter registration and that no one was opposed to its use, it needed to be made widely available so that every Ghanaian could obtain one before the minority would be willing to support its use for voter registration.
“Mr Speaker, it is revealed in the just ended limited Voters ‘Registration exercise that 61 per cent of people who registered were from the guarantor system, which meant that 900 thousand were registered, 550,000 would not have been registered, if this House hadn’t insisted that the right thing must be done.”
He emphasized that if Parliament hadn’t insisted on doing the right thing, the 550,000 individuals who registered through the Guarantor System would have faced disenfranchisement.
Mr. Iddrisu urged both the House and the Government to prioritize allocating sufficient resources to the Electoral Commission (EC) and the National Identification Authority. The latter is mandated by law to issue the Ghana Card to Ghanaians.
Appealing to the finance minister, he called for the fulfillment of the promise to allocate adequate resources to these two bodies, enabling them to successfully accomplish their respective tasks.
They say angels walk among men, and this story exemplifies that belief.
It all began on the morning of Wednesday, June 7, 2023, when Bright Ofori, a youth advocate, found himself at Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands. As he stood in line, he overheard a woman speaking Twi.
In recounting the events that followed, he shared how immigration officers suddenly began escorting the woman away. Filled with concern, he decided to follow the unfolding situation to see what was happening.
“On June 7, around 8am, I was at the Schipol airport -typically full of white folks, so it’s easy to recognise blacks. I saw one woman being whisked away by immigration officers. I had earlier heard her speak Twi while in a queue, asking someone which line to join because she was transiting to Germany. She seemed confused. ”She had done nothing wrong. It was her first time travelling and as an elderly woman, she didn’t know her way around. They suspected her because of how she was moving about. Also, she could speak only Twi. So, they pulled her aside for interrogation. Her flight was to take off around 9 am,” he wrote.
He went on to describe how the woman’s frustration reached a breaking point, at which point she decided to return home to Ghana in order to find the solace and relief she so desperately needed.
However, he stuck by her side, doing everything he could to help her unwind, even going so far as to call her family so she could talk to them.
“Over an hour, the immigration officers said they were waiting for an interpreter and they don’t have an idea when the interpreter will come. They seem not bothered. They had the woman’s passport. Madam was crying and distressed. Saying she doesn’t even want to travel anymore. She’s comfortable in her house in Ghana.
“I spent over 2hours with her, interpreting for the officers, calling her children whom she was travelling to visit with my phone and ensured they sent all documents the immigration wanted. Made sure she was issued a new ticket, took her to her boarding entrance and got her snacks Her flight was to take off late afternoon. She didn’t have a smartphone and had written her daughters number on a piece of paper. The officers were so surprised I spent hours ensuring a stranger was released. One ended up escorting me and had a convo with me till I left,” he added.
Many people expressed their gratitude for his kindness in the tweet’s comments section.
I remember coming to the rescue of a 🇬🇭woman who had been detained at the Amsterdam Airport because I heard her speak twi.
On June 7, around 8am, I was at the Schipol airport -typically full of white folks, so it's easy to recognise blacks. I saw one woman being whisked away by pic.twitter.com/Wv7iuDZCmJ
In a heartwarming and unexpected turn of events, a man believed to be ‘mentally challenged’ surprised onlookers by flawlessly singing Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba’s hit song, “Makra Mo,” word-for-word.
This remarkable incident unfolded at a funeral.
The inspiring occurrence left spectators in amazement at the man’s musical memory, sparking questions about the accuracy of his presumed mental challenges.
In a video shared by X user @eddie_wrt, the man joyfully mimed to the tune as “Makra Mo” resonated from the loudspeakers at the funeral ground.
Enthralled by the man’s performance, he was handed a microphone, allowing him to step into the spotlight and deliver the song.
As the man showcased his impressive musical abilities, astonished onlookers expressed their appreciation by offering him money during his performance.
The video has been widely shared on social media, with many users commending the man. As a result, Daddy Lumba has gained considerable attention on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This video is not meant to get you emotional.A few observations:
Ghanaians are WONDERFUL people, he was treated with so much dignity,regardless of his state.Music with a real MESSAGE is powerful, when the circumstance is right.
Ofori Amponsah has addressed the long-standing claims regarding his relationship with fellow musician Daddy Lumba in an exclusive interview with Zionfelix, the legendary Ghanaian musician.
Thanking Daddy Lumba profusely, Amponsah declared categorically that he could never speak poorly of the veteran musician and credited the veteran musician for much of his success.
“I can never say anything ill about Daddy Lumba,” Amponsah emphasized. “He played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. If not for him, I wouldn’t be where I am,” Ofori Amponsah stated.
While acknowledging the claims that they mismanaged funds while working together, Amponsah emphasized that, even though there may have been differences, concentrating only on the negative aspects would diminish Lumba’s important contributions to his life and career.
Amponsah conveyed his appreciation, narrating incidents in which Lumba’s help—even with a small school fee of GHC 200—made a significant impact on his life.
“Sure, there might have been misunderstandings about money,” Amponsah admitted, “but the good he did for me far outweighs any negatives. He helped me when I needed it the most,” he added.
This disclosure from Ofori Amponsah comes amid the prolonged conflict between Daddy Lumba and Great Ampong, where financial disagreements have strained their formerly productive partnership.
Sentiments such as ‘greed’ and ‘deceit’ have been used to describe Ampong’s sentiments towards Daddy Lumba, accompanied by allegations of unexplained funds and indirect criticisms.
Artiste Manager, Bullgod, has expressed the belief that artists with improper behavior can be traced back to their upbringing.
According to him, the primary influence on every artist is their parents, and if they exhibit a negative attitude, it is the parents, not the management, who should be held accountable.
Bullgod asserts that it is not the responsibility of artist managers to coddle artists and instill discipline; rather, this duty lies with the parents.
“Parents are the first managers of artists, so if artists are messing up, they should blame their parents, not their managers, because they didn’t get the right training.”
Renowned entertainment pundit Vida Adutwumwaa advocates for gospel singers to commercialize their talents, emphasizing the importance of securing financial freedom and independence for these artists.
In response to a statement attributed to Reverend Abraham Lamptey suggesting that gospel events should be free, and gospel singers should not charge fees to lead worshippers on the United Showbiz Show, Vida Adutwumwaa countered by highlighting that many Ghanaian gospel singers engage in full-time ministry.
Without tapping into the business aspects of the gospel industry, she contends that these artists may encounter challenges in meeting their basic needs.
“I am very sad to hear such statements from Rev. Lamptey. Gospel singers are not government workers who earn salaries and would be paid even during pension, their means of living is through the gospel songs they sing, so if they do not charge, how do they feed and how would they take care of themselves when they are no strong to perform?” Vida Adutwumwaa explained.
She went on to say that the majority of singers become vagrants during their idle days due to poor choices and the incapacity of some to capitalize on the commercial aspects of the music industry.
She explained, “It saddens me to see singers, especially gospel singers begging and complaining bitterly after their peak periods. Mostly it is because of these decisions they take. Yes, they are worshipping God but they must eat.”
Vida Adutwumwaa maintained that, charging fees for gospel performance is not same as putting a price tag on God.
“If I am taking 100gh for performance, it does not mean that is how much I value God. Those money is to ensure, myself and the team also feed,” she said.
Graphic Showbiz cited Reverend Abraham Lamptey, General Overseer of Believers House of Worship International, as saying that gospel singers and events should not turn into a means of generating revenue or charge admission fees for the purpose of leading worshippers to God. He says there is no price for God.
“It doesn’t matter the artiste billed on the programme. Whether an A-list Gospel act or not, patrons should not pay to attend the event. I don’t have a problem with others charging fees, but if the event is meant to encounter God for all the wonderful things, He has done for us, then I think admission should be free.
“As I said, you cannot take money if the event is meant to encounter God. I cannot put any price tag on God. Therefore, asking patrons to pay will be wrong. I have done my Art of Worship for 16 years and it is always free,” he reportedly said.
The pastor, though, claims that he was misquoted. He says he said he would not charge people to attend his shows, not that he called for free shows. Prior to his annual event, which he insisted was free of charge, he made this remark.
Gospel artist Patience Nyarko has declared her unwavering commitment to defend her artistic endeavors, just as she did in 2020, should anyone attempt to undermine her work while promoting their own.
She stressed her determination to stand firm in the face of challenges, asserting her right to pursue her livelihood.
In 2020, the singer vehemently reacted to a comment suggesting that gospel songs performed in the Twi language lack attractiveness.
During a discussion on the state of gospel music on Anigye Mmre, DJ Alordia, a UK-based Ghanaian event organizer, expressed the opinion that Ghanaian gospel music faces challenges in reaching a broader audience due to language barriers.
He argued that as a promoter and event organizer, he encounters difficulties attracting attendees from other nationalities, such as Nigerians and South Africans, when bringing Ghanaian musicians to events.
Citing the use of pidgin language by Nigerian gospel musicians in most of their songs, DJ Alordia noted that this practice attracts a diverse audience from various countries in the UK.
He, however, singled out Joe mettle, who uses the English language in some of his works, saying: “So, when you put him on a show here in the UK, you get lots of foreigners attending.”
Unhappy about the comment, Patience Nyarko launched an attack as she defended her craft. She maintained that Alordia’s statement is demeaning to some of them since “Joe Mettle is not where people want us to believe he is”.
“The way people want to lift him above all of us, they will give him problem. He is not yet there. People want us to believe he is better than all of us gospel musicians in Ghana.”
“Apart from Joe Mettle singing Pentecost and Methodist songs, how many English songs has he composed and you want to disrespect some of us that write our own songs,” she complained.
On every platform that she could find herself on, Patience Nyarko passionately addressed the problem.
In a Saturday, November 25, 2023, submission on UTV’s United Showbiz, which GhanaWeb was watching, Patience Nyarko stated she had no regrets refuting the claim.
“I fought a good fight,” she said. “If I need to do that again, I will. I did a good thing and I was happy. How do you make a comment to discredit people who sing in Twi? Nobody can prevent gospel musicians who sing in Twi from performing and earning income.”
She continued: “How many gospel songs sung in English are able to break boundaries compared to those in Twi?… Sing in English if you want. Allow me to sing in Twi because it makes me feel good. Let’s do what pleases us.”
Meanwhile, Patience Nyarko said there was no bad blood between her and Joe Mettle.
“We’ve met a couple of times. We are cool. He understands my point,” she said.
Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has strongly criticized Minister Stephen Yakubu for suggesting that farmers might risk losing their wives if the 24-hour economy proposal by former President John Dramani Mahama is implemented.
In a post shared on Sunday, November 26, 2023, Dr. Clement expressed shock at the regional minister’s suggestion, pointing out that couples in war-torn countries still manage to maintain intimate relationships.
Dr. Apaak accused Stephen Yakubu and other members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) of making baseless statements against Mahama’s policy proposal, suggesting that this is because they are aware that Ghanaians have embraced the idea.
“What has a 24-hour economy got to do with farming at night and sleeping or not sleeping with wives at night? Don’t men in 24-hour economies sleep with their wives? Even in war zones, couples manage to do the needful.
“The comments of the Upper East Regional Minister in reaction to JM’s much welcomed 24-hour economy proposal in the attached video typifies the silly and deliberate ignorance of Dr Bawumia and the NPP,” he wrote.
He urged Ghanaians to disregard the assertions made by NPP members, saying they have nothing constructive to offer.
“Indeed, Bawumia and the NPP have nothing to offer Ghanaians. Ghanaians are not that stupid to give the USELESS, corrupt, and reckless Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP gov’t an extension in office.
“No rational human being will choose a group that has inflicted such pain and suffering on him/her whiles living large as if there is no tomorrow. The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP gov’t must pay dearly for the excruciating hardship they have subjected Ghanaians to,” the post concluded.
ABOUT THE 24-HOUR ECONOMY
What Bawumia and Mahama have said about the 24-hour economy proposal:
The next NDC administration would implement policies to incentivize businesses in Ghana to remain open for business around the clock, according to former president John Dramani Mahama.
He clarified that as part of the policy measure, businesses would be given incentives to operate day and night, potentially in three shifts, which would result in more jobs for Ghana’s young people who work well together.
He continued by saying that having a police force that can guarantee business protection during the night economy is essential to putting the 24-hour economy plan into action.
“A new NDC administration will work urgently to equip our youth with the entrepreneurial knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable future. We will introduce a 24-hour economy with incentives and tax breaks for manufacturers who will run extra shifts to create more room for employment,” he said.
However, some Ghanaians are not so thrilled about the former president’s proposal. These people are primarily members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), including vice president Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s presidential candidate.
On Monday, November 20, 2023, at a campaign event in Nalerigu, in the North East Region, Vice President Dr. Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), criticized the 24-hour economy policy proposal made by Mahama.
It seems Mahama does not grasp the concept of a 24-hour economy, according to Bawumia, who clarified that the idea was not new to Ghana.
“John Mahama says he has a new idea, what is this new idea, he says he wants a 24-hour economy. He doesn’t even understand that promise,” Bawumia told a teeming crowd up north on his first visit since his election as flagbearer.
He listed among others; hospitals, power and fuel service providers and some chop bars, that are already operating 24 hours adding that thanks to digitalization, “you can transfer and receive money 24 hours.”
“He (Mahama) doesn’t understand his own policy, it does not make sense. I want you to note in 2024 we are having a new vision. I will bring new policy and we will transform this country. John Mahama is the past, Dr. Bawumia is the future,” Bawumia added to cheers from the crowd.
He again criticised the proposal at another campaign event calling it “a bad idea”.
“So, what is this 2024-hour economy, that you want to bring? It is purely an issue for any business. If you feel you would make money opening 24 hours; there is no law preventing you from opening.
“But this is one idea that John Mahama thinks he has brought. It is a bad idea. It is an idea that has not been thought through. It is a bad idea,” he said.
Gospel singer, Patience Nyarko, as long as taking physical revenge feels good, there is nothing wrong with someone reacting violently to aggression.
In response to Strongman and Kweku Smoke’s lyrical sparring, the gospel singer stated on UTV’s United Showbiz, which is hosted by MzGee, that although she disapproves of the insults each rapper has directed at their families, she does not oppose their choice to spar.
“Beef is good but they should exclude parties who are not involved,” she stated on the show monitored by the media.
Disregarding the rap fight, Patience Nyarko underlined the significance of reacting when an offense cannot be ignored. She says that being unable to overlook and forgive can be dangerous for a person. According to her, there are times when reacting might be important for one’s health.
She said: “We are grownups. If someone offends you, and you don’t feel like forgiving the fellow; you want to retaliate, retaliate, but don’t include innocent ones.”
“There was even a misunderstanding in Heaven. Why do we feel because it’s related to the gospel, we should always swallow a chill pill when someone offends you? If someone steps on your toes and you want to forgive the person, forgive them. But if you crave retaliation, retaliate. After that, discard the incident. That’s what God wants.”
She continued: “It is normal to retaliate. Don’t make it seem as though Christians are not supposed to do so; that’s hypocritical; I don’t like that!”
Team Lead of Compete Ghana, Nicholas Gebara, has urged exporters to demonstrate diligence in their roles and adhere to the standards set by the European market.
He emphasizes that exporters bear the responsibility of ensuring proper documentation and compliance with the required standards throughout the supply chain, ensuring that all raw materials and exported products meet the specified requirements.
“There are requirements in terms of how much pesticides to use, fertilizer to use, the way things are grown organically and inorganically, but there are levels of the requirement to comply to, and it is also the responsibility of the exporter to help farmers comply,” the Team Lead added.
Mr. Gebara issued this call during the conclusive gathering for key stakeholders in Trade on the National Traceability System and Early Warning Mechanism in Accra. The event was organized by the European Union (EU)-funded Compete Ghana Programme, operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Compete Ghana actively involved pertinent agencies within the import and export value chain to enhance the existing Ghana-EU early warning mechanism established under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The goal was to empower these entities to generate and disseminate timely and relevant warning information. This, in turn, would enable exporters and agencies in the export and import value chain to identify non-compliant exports to the EU and respond appropriately.
Gebara highlighted that the traceability system and early warning mechanism primarily focused on developing systems to enhance the public sector’s capacity to provide accurate information and trace products in the event of contamination.
“This will help to reduce the rejection of Ghana’s food export commodities on the European Union Market,” he added.
Mr Gebara noted that the standards were set by the EU to give assurance and protection to consumers in the market, adding that, “it helps consumers to believe that when they consume products from anywhere in the world, they are safe, and even if something happens, they can trace it back and take measures,” he stressed.
The Team Lead urged farmers and exporters to adhere to EU standards and food safety regulations, emphasizing the importance of compliance to avoid warnings and bans on goods exported to the EU.
Mr. Prudence Attipoe, Deputy Director of the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, explained that farmers were registered in the system with details such as coordinates and geographical locations of their farms, along with information about the crops grown. These details were linked to the exporters, who served as controllers within the system.
The Deputy Director highlighted that each exporter had a designated interface in the system, and they underwent training to use it. He further explained that every activity conducted on the farm, including adherence to good agricultural practices, was recorded in the system.
“So, we are able to trace every activity done on the farm including planting, weeding, spraying, trapping and harvesting to the park house and to the export zones where our inspectors inspect the items before issuing a Phyto-sanitary certificate for export,” he added.
Compete Ghana ceremoniously transferred the software for the Early Warning Mechanism, E-Phyto, and E-Trace to the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Renowned for his enduring presence in the Ghanaian music scene spanning over two decades, Ofori Amponsah, the “Emmanuella” hitmaker, stands as a seasoned artist.
Despite his substantial success not solely being confined to the melodies he produces, Ofori Amponsah is notably reticent about his achievements.
In an exclusive interview with Zionfelix on the ‘Uncut Show,’ the award-winning musician broke his silence about the considerable real estate portfolio he has quietly accumulated over the past 25 years.
Unlike many in the industry, Ofori Amponsah opts not to showcase his properties on social media, deeming such displays unnecessary.
During the interview, Ofori Amponsah disclosed that, strategically, he has invested in lands and constructed houses in various locations across Ghana. This shift into real estate was influenced by advice from his godfather in the music industry, Daddy Lumba.
The legendary musician advised him to redirect funds from extravagant cars, which are not tangible assets, into more enduring investments like lands and properties.
Taking this counsel seriously, Ofori Amponsah redirected his focus toward building a legacy beyond the beats and rhythms of his music. Interestingly, he hinted that many are unaware of the extensive properties he owns, scattered in various locations across the country.
Board Chairman of Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), David Amoakom has asserted that the proposed leasing of Tema Oil Refinery’s assets to Torentco Asset Management Limited (TAML), now rebranded as Tema Energy and Processing Limited (TEPL), is a transparent transaction.
Despite concerns raised by both the Attorney General and the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) following petitions from the union, Amoakomhas maintains that the deal is free from corruption.
In a letter dated November 21, 2023, addressed to the Managing Director of TOR, Daniel Osei Appiah, the OSP said: “It has commenced an analysis of the risk of corruption in respect of the proposed partnership”.
Therefore, the Office instructed TOR to provide all essential documentation related to the proposed agreement by the end of Tuesday, December 5, 2023.
Additionally, the Attorney General, in its evaluation, has indicated that Torentco Asset Management Limited does not possess the required financial and technical capabilities to serve as the lessee for the assets of the Tema Oil Refinery.
This assessment was prompted by the submission of a Due Diligence Report (DDR) by the General Transport, Petroleum, and Chemical Workers Union of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) of Ghana, calling for a reevaluation of Torentco’s suitability.
According the AG, “TAML has no established affiliation with Vitol or with any other company, which has the needed funds and technical capacity to undertake the Proposed Lease Transaction and without whose support TAML lacks the financial and technical capacity to undertake its obligation under the Proposed Lease Transaction”.
However, TOR Board Chairman David Adomako, told journalists: “We’ve subjected this deal to competitive tender and evaluated by the TOR board comprised of reputable and highly experienced individuals. The proposal was reviewed by the MoE [Ministry of Energy], MoF [Ministry of Finance], SIGA [State Interest and Governance Authority], Attorney General, BOST and the NPA [National Petroleum Authority]”.
He said the “substance of the proposal has remained constant but changes to the legal identity of the lesser was necessitated by prevailing circumstances and with the knowledge of stakeholders”.
“The board is just poised to revive the company. We want to restore the morale of the staff and improve on the working conditions and benefits. We are just committed to supporting the company”, he added.
New videos have surfaced from the visit of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to Berekum in the Bono Region for the funeral rites of the late Berekumhene, Daasebre Dr. Amankona Diawuo II, held on Thursday, November 24, 2023.
These images and videos capture the rich culture and traditions of the Akan people, offering a glimpse into the values and significance of the Asantehene to Asanteman.
The visit provides a vivid portrayal of the status and power of the Asantehene, a subject often debated in public discourse.
One notable video, shared by Oheneba Media, depicts the esteem in which the Asantehene is held by other paramount chiefs in Ghana.
In the video, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is seated in a state, while paramount chiefs and queen mothers from the Ashanti Region, Ahafo Region, and the Bono Region take turns bowing to him.
This ceremonial act signifies the Asantehene’s authority over their respective stools.
Prominent chiefs seen paying homage in the video include the paramount chief of Goaso, Nana Kwasi Bosomprah; the paramount chief of Tepa, Nana Adusei Ampem I, and the paramount chief of Tuobodom, Nana Agyei KokooTakyi Firi Beyeaman I.
During a recent parliamentary address, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta provided a self-assessment of the past seven years of economic performance under his leadership.
He characterized this period as one of grace and positive impact, emphasizing a commitment to further boosting the private sector’s capacity for productivity and job creation through the 2024 budget and the economy policy statement for the year ending December 31, 2023.
Key accomplishments highlighted encompass the allocation of GH¢32.7 billion to stabilize the energy sector and GH¢25.3 billion for the strategic repositioning of the financial sector to support and enhance business operations.
He said, to date, “…Bank Ghana has facilitated GH¢1 billion in competitive financing for the private sector, and GIRSAL continues to mitigate risks in the agriculture sector; Supported 100,000 young graduates to secure workplace experience and employment by investing GH¢2.4 billion in NABCO; Invested GH¢7.1 billion to build road and transport infrastructure to improve connectivity and productivity”.
He further highlighted that, during this period, the government has invested GH¢541.5 million in 169 1D1F enterprises to enhance value addition, resulting in the creation of 140,000 additional jobs.
Additionally, over 2.3 million jobs have been generated across the private and public sectors, with approximately 900,000 in the private sector and 1.4 million in the public sector.
Ofori-Atta emphasized the significance of capital spending for Ghana’s future, illustrating the commitment through the mobilization and deployment of resources to various initiatives.
These include the expansion of the railway network, with a focus on connecting Tema to Mpakadan to bolster trade on the Eastern Corridor. The government has also allocated GH¢19.5 million for the construction of 12 fish landing sites and two fishing harbors, aiming to enhance the fishery-based livelihoods of coastal communities.
To improve community infrastructure, an investment of GH¢2.2 billion has been directed towards over 2,000 projects under the IPEP initiative.
Additionally, the government has allocated GH¢190.3 million for the promotion of inner-city development through the Zongo Development Fund.
Notably, a substantial investment of about GH¢16 billion has been made to expand and enhance the road network.
Former Speaker of Parliament, Rev. Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye, asserts that Ghana will persistently seek financial assistance from the IMF unless it optimally harnesses its natural resources and prioritizes the agricultural sector.
Emphasizing that substantial investments in agriculture would lead to the development of substantial industries, he envisions a future where the nation achieves self-sufficiency and economic resilience.
“Today we are at the IMF for the 17th time, and we shall continue to go to the IMF unless we make good use of the matters of the soil, the fruits of the soil naturally given to us by our God,” Prof Oquaye said.
Speaking at the 2023 Akufo Hall National Best Farmers Lecture held at the University of Ghana in Accra, Rev. Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye addressed the audience on the topic “Resilience, Technology, and Humanism: The Past, the Present, and the Future of the Ghanaian Farmer.”
The primary objective of the lecture was to promote agriculture as an appealing career option for the youth, aiming to transform their lives positively. Prof. Oquaye emphasized the need for substantial investments in the agricultural sector, envisioning the emergence of large-scale industries that would render the country self-sufficient and economically stable.
Drawing a comparison with India, Prof. Oquaye highlighted how India’s strategic focus on agriculture enabled the country to produce enough food to sustain its citizens and others, insulating it from the impact of conflicts in Russia and Ukraine. In contrast, Ghana’s heavy dependence on these nations for food left it significantly affected by the war, despite possessing vast arable lands.
Prof. Oquaye urged the government to recognize and support the efforts of the University of Ghana, particularly through the Akuafo Hall, in generating interest among the youth in agriculture. He emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in food production, stating that if Ghana’s farmers could sustain the nation, it would not be vulnerable to disruptions caused by conflicts in other parts of the world.
Adding to this, Prof. Kwaku Oppong Asante, the Akuafo Hall Master, expressed the hall’s readiness to establish a Farmers Center of Excellence.
This center would oversee the guidance of students interested in pursuing farming as a business. Additionally, the hall pledged to provide office space on campus for the National Best Farmer and take charge of organizing an annual farmer’s symposium, all aimed at making farming more appealing to the youth.
The vibrant culture of the Ashanti people in Ghana is deeply rooted in traditions, art, and social structures. In Ashanti culture, the use of color plays a significant role in conveying mood and occasion, while large umbrellas, depending on their size and characteristics, communicate identity, authority, and spiritual significance.
As the head of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II holds the highest authority, overseeing numerous paramount chiefs. During state occasions such as funerals, Otumfuo traditionally wears black, symbolizing mourning and sorrow in Akan culture.
A distinctive practice observed in the Ashanti Kingdom is the variation in attire and umbrella color among paramount chiefs. Notably, the paramount chief of Tepa, witnessed at the recent burial rites of the late Berekumhene, Daasebre Amankona Diawuo II, wore white and used a white umbrella. This deviation is rooted in the role of Tepa Baanie, a revered deity under the Tepahene, with historical significance in the kingdom.
Tepa Baanie is renowned for its mystic powers, including granting children to the barren and playing significant spiritual roles in the kingdom’s historical expansion wars. In acknowledgment of Tepa Baanie’s importance, the Tepahene and his priest are permitted to wear white, while the Asantehene and other chiefs wear black during mourning ceremonies.
Functioning as a source of spiritual power and protection for Otumfuo’s reign, the Tepa Baanie priest performs rituals for the Asantehene.
A video from the Berekumhene’s funeral depicts the Tepa Baanie priest tapping the Asantehene with an animal tail, and a deity carried by the Tepahene’s entourage is presented to Otumfuo, who places his hand on the deity for fortification.
The vibrant culture of the Ashanti people in Ghana is deeply rooted in traditions, art, and social structures. In Ashanti culture, the use of color plays a significant role in conveying mood and occasion, while large umbrellas, depending on their size and characteristics, communicate identity, authority, and spiritual significance.
As the head of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II holds the highest authority, overseeing numerous paramount chiefs. During state occasions such as funerals, Otumfuo traditionally wears black, symbolizing mourning and sorrow in Akan culture.
A distinctive practice observed in the Ashanti Kingdom is the variation in attire and umbrella color among paramount chiefs. Notably, the paramount chief of Tepa, witnessed at the recent burial rites of the late Berekumhene, Daasebre Amankona Diawuo II, wore white and used a white umbrella. This deviation is rooted in the role of Tepa Baanie, a revered deity under the Tepahene, with historical significance in the kingdom.
Tepa Baanie is renowned for its mystic powers, including granting children to the barren and playing significant spiritual roles in the kingdom’s historical expansion wars. In acknowledgment of Tepa Baanie’s importance, the Tepahene and his priest are permitted to wear white, while the Asantehene and other chiefs wear black during mourning ceremonies.
Functioning as a source of spiritual power and protection for Otumfuo’s reign, the Tepa Baanie priest performs rituals for the Asantehene.
A video from the Berekumhene’s funeral depicts the Tepa Baanie priest tapping the Asantehene with an animal tail, and a deity carried by the Tepahene’s entourage is presented to Otumfuo, who places his hand on the deity for fortification.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu, has criticized former President John Dramani Mahama’s suggestion of a 24-hour economy, casting doubt on its appropriateness for agricultural communities.
Speaking at an event in the Upper East Region, as captured in a video by GhanaWeb, Mr. Yakubu expressed concerns about the proposed policy, highlighting potential challenges to the marital stability of the local population whose primary livelihood revolves around farming.
“The vice president is saying that he understands the region. He says that this 24-hour economy, my brothers, when we work in the farms and we are tired in the night we have to sleep with our wives.
“We have to be with our wives. In the night you want us to go and be farming and then people will come and take our wives away?” the minister questioned amidst shouts of no from his audience.
Stephen Yakubu’s remarks follow Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s critique of Mr. Mahama’s advocacy for a 24-hour economy. Mr. Mahama, the National Democratic Congress’ flagbearer, recently suggested the implementation of a 24-hour economy as a means to foster economic growth and generate employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
Despite Mr. Mahama’s endorsement of the proposal, Dr. Bawumia, his main rival in the upcoming 2024 presidential election and the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, has contended that the policy lacks innovative thinking.
According to the UE Regional Minister, President Mahama's 24-hour economy will not allow us to sleep with our wives.
“This is one idea that John Mahama thinks that he has brought, it is a bad idea, it is an idea that hasn’t been thought through so I want you to compare me to John Mahama, who has the ideas to transform this economy.
“The track record of John Mahama doesn’t show innovative thinking, it doesn’t show ideas, the track record of Dr Bawumia is idea after idea. I have my own priorities and I have my own vision, when I become president I will bring more ideas and you will hear them very soon,” Dr Bawumia stated a recent campaign stop in the Northern Region.
Founder and Leader of Ebenezer Miracle Worship Centre, Prophet Ebenezer Adarkwa Yiadom, popularly known as Opambour, has issued a stern warning to the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, in anticipation of the 2024 general elections.
Opambour emphasized the importance of the EC implementing measures to ensure the recognition of every registered Ghanaian voter on election day in 2024.
According to the pastor, such measures are crucial to preventing potential clashes and violence that may arise from the grievances of affected individuals striving to exercise their voting rights.
“Take good care of the electoral register so that nobody’s name misses out on the list. We don’t want a situation where someone has registered and on the day of election, the person’s name cannot be found, where did it go?
“Is it air or spirit to vanish from the book? We don’t want to hear those stories in the 2024 elections because no one’s name is air to vanish from the book,” he said while speaking on his Prophet 1 TV and monitored by GhanaWeb.
Opambour also threatened to cancel the elections until the irregularities were fixed if the Electoral Commission did not make sure that the name of each registered voter was listed in the register.
He said: “The EC should make sure that members of the NPP, NDC, and all other political party’s names are captured in the register for them to vote peacefully. If it happens that some names are missing in some constituencies we will cancel the elections and hold it again.”
There has been much discussion about the need for the Electoral Commission to implement strict measures to guarantee that no one is denied the right to vote as the general elections of 2024 draw near.
Ahead of the upcoming district-level and unit committee elections, the Electoral Commission wrapped up its five-day voter exhibition exercise on Tuesday, November 7. The process of the exhibition was started on Friday, November 3.
The funeral ceremony of the late paramount chief of the Berekum Traditional Area, Daasebre Dr Amankona Diawuo II, took an unexpected turn with a gun firing display by Nana Yaa Asantewaa, the Queen Mother of the Ejisu Traditional Council in the Ashanti region.
Attended by dignitaries, including Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the event was marked by palpable tension arising from an apparent feud between the Asantehene and Dormaahene.
In a dramatic show of royal charisma, Nana Yaa Asantewaa openly brandished a double-barreled pump-action gun, firing multiple shots into the air to the cheers of the crowd. The queen mother discharged about six shots, capturing the attention and applause of onlookers.
This display unfolded during the arrival of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who led a delegation from Asanteman to pay respects to the late Berekumhene.
The brave women that handle guns before the entry of Asantehene .. Ejisuhemaa.. )to tuo
The Asantehene’s grand entrance into Berekum featured a procession of over 40 vehicles, including VIP buses, a convoy of more than 20 Toyota Land Cruisers, a Range Rover, two Toyota Tundra vehicles, as well as police vehicles and riders.
In the course of the 57th Congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) on Friday, November 24, 2023, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and chancellor of the university, passionately appealed to Ghanaian graduates not to seek opportunities abroad.
He expressed concern, stating that jobs available for graduates abroad are typically menial. Drawing from his own experience of living abroad, he emphasized that Ghanaian graduate students often find themselves limited to cleaning jobs despite their qualifications when they leave the country for perceived greener pastures.
“With all due respect, on this topic, I have lived abroad before, we worked in restaurants and all those things, even though we had gone to the university before we went there.
“So, the people here are much better than living in abroad and we have to be honest with ourselves. Because graduates and all that, people qualified are not given the work they want to do because they are taken to hospitals to clean and all of that,” he said.
The Asantehene added that graduates should not travel abroad because in Ghana, they are given the needed reverence and self-esteem.
“Whiles you are here, we accord you with all the respect and dignity as a lecturer, as a professor and everything. So, please let us stay here and work,” he reiterated.
Could you have ever imagined that the late former First Lady of Ghana, Theresa Kufuor, had personal nicknames? Despite her elevated position as the wife of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, it appears there were indeed reasons for her to have acquired some special aliases.
This article uncovers the unique nicknames of the late former First Lady, not those bestowed by regular Ghanaians or political adversaries. Instead, these are names provided by one of her children, a person intimately acquainted with her character.
In a heartfelt tribute to his mother, who passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at the age of 87, Agyekum (her son) affectionately referred to her as ‘girlfriend.’ He shared insights into her disciplinarian side, revealing some of the endearing nicknames she carried.
“Girlfriend, you were a perfect balance of Love and Discipline. The disciplinarian in you earned you many coded nicknames, such as ‘Severe,’ ‘The Law,’ ‘Chief Justice,’ and a few more, but somehow you always knew it was you we were referring to.”
“I recall a time when I was ‘acting up,’ even daring to announce to you that I wasn’t going to continue with school. You quickly gave me that famous ‘side-eye,’ sized me all the way up and down, flared your nostrils slightly and nipped that aspiration in the bud with surgical precision – retorting in the purest Fante: ‘You can forget that dream … I don’t know what’s going on in that head of yours, but let me tell you: no matter how long it takes, you will complete your education, whether you like it or not. In fact, on the day you die, I will make sure you go to school first, finish the day and then when you get home, you can die if you like… Do you hear me? Now get out of my sight and go and read a book,’” he wrote.
A state burial for the Late Theresa Kufuor was held at the state house in Accra on November 16, 2023 where Ghanaians met to pay their last respect and bid her farewell.
Rebecca Naa Dede Ayeetey, whose face is featured on Ghana’s 50 pesewa coin, was a notable trader and influential figure in the early days of the country’s independence.
Born in 1923 in Osu during the pre-independence era, Rebecca played a significant role in Ghanaian politics before the nation gained independence in 1957.
Growing into an established businesswoman, revered political activist, and chief financier of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP), Rebecca, nicknamed ‘Ashikishan’ due to her success in selling flour, made a lasting impact.
As a key supporter of the CPP under leader Kwame Nkrumah, she provided her home at Kokomlemle as a meeting center for the party’s women.
However, her association with Nkrumah made her a target for the rival political party, United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), leading to her tragic demise.
Rebecca passed away at a CPP function in Ho on June 22, 1961, at the age of 38.
Reports suggest she fell victim to a plot during the event, allegedly poisoned after complaining of a stomach ache following the consumption of hot tea.
Despite her untimely death, Rebecca Naa Dede Ayeetey’s legacy endured. In the 1960s, Ghana’s double-decker buses brought to Accra by Minister of Transport and Communications Harry Sawyer were named ‘Auntie Dede’ in her honor.
Today, her image graces a national stamp, and she is immortalized on the 50 pesewa coin.
Prepare for a musical explosion as two of Ghana’s renowned artists, Fuse ODG and Kuami Eugene, join forces to release their sizzling new single, “100%.”
With an infectious afrobeats rhythm and captivating lyrics, “100%” is set to become a dance sensation and a must-have addition to every music lover’s playlist.
Fuse ODG’s lyrical prowess and Kuami Eugene’s melodic charm shine through in this track, delivering a sensual yet catchy masterpiece that celebrates the seductiveness of a woman and her scandalous moves.
“100%” encapsulates the essence of afrobeats, promising listeners an irresistible beat to dance to!
Stay tuned for the soon-to-be-released music video, perfectly aligned with the song’s slick, sexy, and stylish vibes.
Broadcaster and former manager of Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie, Sammy Forson, has called on artiste managers in Ghana to come together and establish a cohesive collective.
While participating in Joy FM’s Twitter (X) Spaces show ‘Joy Entertainment Unpacked,’ Forson emphasized the significance of a united front among artiste managers for the advancement of Ghana’s music industry.
“I want to take this opportunity to appeal to artiste managers to come together and form a united front,” Forson stated.
He proposed that artiste managers convene regularly, possibly every two weeks, for socialization and idea exchange.
Supporting Forson’s plea for unity, another talent manager, Lawrence Nana Asiama Hanson, widely known as BullGod in showbiz, reflected on a previous initiative by a group of artiste managers to form an association. He acknowledged the difficulties they encountered in that endeavor.
“It’s great that Sammy Forson has brought this up. Myself and my late friend Fenec Otchere tried to do this in the past, and Sammy can attest to that. But we couldn’t make it work, so this is a good call,” BullGod remarked.
Forson emphasized the wealth of valuable knowledge and experience that novice artiste managers can acquire from their more seasoned counterparts.
“You need to learn the ropes, you need to know how to do things. People like BullGod have connections around the world that they can plug you into, and that’s what people in other parts of Africa are doing. They have a united front, trying to project their country,” he explained.
Forson also highlighted that a unified approach among artiste managers would cultivate stronger relationships between managers and their artists.
Sammy Forson boasts an extensive track record in the music industry, having collaborated with artists such as the late OJ Blaq, the now-disbanded hiplife duo Echo, and Sarkodie, one of Ghana’s most prominent rap artists.
Renowned Nigerian gospel singer, Nathaniel Bassey, has shared a harrowing experience of a series of events that unfolded before a plane he was onboard nearly crashed.
While en route from Charlotte to Washington DC in the United States, Bassey, engaged in worship and adoration, received a divine prompting to sing ‘He Turned It.’
Shortly after this spiritual guidance, the pilots announced an ‘error’ message on the plane’s dashboard.
However, they were unable to determine the exact nature of the issue. Faced with uncertainty, the options presented were either to land at the nearest airport or risk a potential crash.
“Once I was in a flight from Charlotte to DC. I was listening to songs of worship when the spirit asked me to sing Turning Around. I began singing it and immediately after that, the pilots announced that the plane is announcing an error but they cannot tell what it is. Our options were immediate landing or a crash,” Nathaniel Bassey narrated during a ministration.
He added that, “after the pilot’s announcement, I then understood why the Holy Spirit directed me to sing He Turned It.”
In addition, the gospel singer disclosed that he had mistakenly booked a flight to a different state. Nevertheless, the plane unexpectedly landed in the precise state he had originally intended to visit.
He said, “Now the mysterious and miraculous thing is that I was on the wrong plane going into a wrong City because of a mistake I made with booking my flight. And it would amaze you to know that the airport we had our emergency landing is the exact airport I was supposed to be. Not only did God save my life, but he brought me to the right place.”
The Minority Members on the Lands and Forestry Committee of Parliament have criticized the government for its alleged failure to account for funds disbursed in the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ in the 2024 Budget.
The group claims that $30 million was allocated quarterly to the now-defunct inter-ministerial committee for three years, with an additional GH¢5 million used in the government’s engagements with traditional leaders and security agencies to address the galamsey issue.
Speaking to the media, Deputy Ranking Member on the Lands and Forestry Committee, Alhassan Suhuyini, emphasized the need for the government to be transparent and accountable to the public in its efforts to combat ‘galamsey.’
“Shouldn’t we be asking ourselves why, this time in the budget statement, not even once has the ‘galamsey’ word been mentioned? After we have spent millions of Ghana cedis. The Interministerial committee was allocated $30 million every quarter, and they operated for three years.”
“That should tell you how much money has gone down the drain; they blew GH¢5.4 million just to interact on ‘galamsey.’ The question is, to what end? What are the benefits that we have from all of these?” Alhassan Suhuyini asked.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Opoku Ansah, wants the government to consider the establishment of a fund to repair the damage caused to river bodies by galamsey.
“Mr. Speaker, everybody is talking about ‘galamsey’ and how it has destroyed our water bodies. There’s the need for a fund to be set aside so that monies deposited in this fund will be used to repair destroyed rivers, construct new waters for our people, and ensure that the Ghanaian is assured of good drinking water,” Davis Opoku Ansah suggested.
Social media users in Ghana have strongly criticized Hilda Baci, a dethroned Nigerian Cookathon chef, for her comments on one of Ghana’s cherished dishes, “Jollof.”
During a podcast in the United Kingdom, Baci remarked that Ghanaian Jollof lacks flavor and does not live up to the hype surrounding it.
She expressed her opinion that the dish falls short in terms of taste compared to Nigerian Jollof.
“Nigerian jollof is better than Ghanaian jollof. I’ve been to Ghana, I’ve eaten their jollof. I’ve done a competition with a Ghanaian chef. For him, that was his best representation of Ghanaian jollof and I have seen the recipe – not one, Ghanaians focus more on the paste than the jollof mix and that is where the flavor comes from,” she said.
However, Hilda’s remark didn’t resonate well with many Ghanaians, who expressed disappointment in her for not making an objective statement without showing bias toward her home country, Nigeria.
They highlighted their support for her, irrespective of her nationality, during her pursuit of a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking time.
A portion of Ghanaians further contended that Hilda Baci lacks the qualification to comment on taste, emphasizing that there’s no evidence of her culinary expertise.
They pointed out that her achievement was in setting a record for the longest cooking time, not for culinary excellence.
Ghana Jollof Has No Flavour- Chef Hilda Baci
Someone help me educate her that her records in the Big book wasn’t the best chef so she should know her place.
First of all, the gentleman you had the competition with wasn’t a CHEF!! I was one of the judges
Mostly importantly, I am disappointed in this statement because everyone supported you regardless of which country we came from or which jollof we make. https://t.co/16H6EccIIo
A classic movie clip featuring veteran Ghanaian journalist and radio presenter, Kwami Sefa Kayi, has recently made its way back to the internet.
In this scene, the story unfolds with an interaction between Kwami Sefa Kayi’s houseboy and one of his girlfriends, who had dropped by unannounced.
The lady inquired about the presence of another woman in the room, but the houseboy assured her that there was no such situation, explaining that he had just arrived at the house. Shortly after, Kwami Sefa Kayi walked in to offer an explanation to his unexpected visitor (his girlfriend) about his absence and the reason for not keeping their appointment.
Unfortunately for him, his second girlfriend, located in another room, emerged and, upon seeing the two together, decided to leave.
Kwami Sefa Kayi Extended the Offer to Drive the Lady Home, but the Second Woman Declined, Quipping, “I’ll take a taxi, so you can enjoy your guest.”
After she’s gone, Sefa Kayi explained to the unexpected girlfriend how and why the lady who just left was ‘just a friend’.
Sefa Kayi stands among the rare individuals in Ghana’s media landscape, boasting an impressive and prosperous career that has endured for over two decades.
Former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Ohene Ntow, has asserted that the only scenario in which he and three other recently ousted party stalwarts would consider returning is if the NPP designates independent presidential candidate Alan Kyerematen as its flagbearer.
He emphasized that this seemingly improbable demand reflects their unwillingness to return under the current circumstances within the party.
“If we are talking about the future the question is whether it will be before 2024 or after 2024 because currently my response to everyone is that even if Alan Kyerematen himself says he is returning to the NPP he will have trouble.
“Secondly, he cannot become the presidential candidate of the NPP which is for his face to appear on the presidential ballot for us to witness what Ghanaians will decide.
“If we are being called that Dr Bawumia will be removed for Alan to become the presidential candidate I will agree. That is impossible, but depending on the conditions I cannot sit here and predict the future (post 2024) but if they admit they were wrong and so they will speak for Dr Bawumia to step down, Alan and his people should return for Alan to be made the candidate, that I will agree,” he stated during an interview on UTV’s morning show.
“I will not agree to that because as far is this job is concerned, Alan has greater competence. He has to be the boss, the one with whom the buck stops,” he emphasized.
A total of 81 aspirants, comprising 74 men and seven women, have submitted their candidacy for the upcoming district assembly election in the Ho Municipality of the Volta Region.
These aspirants will compete in 29 electoral areas within the Municipality, as confirmed by Nana Oduro Numapau, the Ho Municipal Electoral Officer, in a statement to the Ghana News Agency on Friday.
Simultaneously, 171 aspirants, consisting of 151 men and 20 women, have declared their intention to participate in the unit committee election in the same area.
Madam Anna Lanyo, an aspirant in the Takla Electoral Area, emphasized her commitment to advocating for the voices of women in the region.
She expressed her dedication to community development by actively seeking investment opportunities that would generate employment for the residents.
The Electoral Commission has scheduled the district level elections to take place on December 19, 2023, across the country.
One of the four recently ousted members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Hopeson Adorye, alleges that the party stalwart, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, played a significant role in their removal.
Adorye claims that Gabby, along with undisclosed individuals, exerted pressure on the NPP leadership to issue a press statement announcing their expulsion.
In an interview on Okay FM, Adorye disclosed that Gabby even texted him, inquiring about his support for former NPP flagbearer hopeful Alan Kyerematen, citing it as the reason for their dismissal from the party.
“Gabby Otchere-Darko sent me a publication which indicated that he had said I would be voting skirt and blouse and asked me if that was my position. And I said yes, I support Alan because he (Alan) feeds me every month, he pays me every month, so I would support him any day.
“And he (Gabby) said ‘thank you, I just wanted to establish that position’… some few days after this the statement was issued.
“… the statement was supposed to be released on Thursday but they decided to release it on Monday as a birthday present for me. I was told there were calls from Gabby and other people, I don’t want to mention, on Sunday for the statement to be released on Monday. Have you ever seen the NPP General Secretary releasing a statement at 6:00 am before, when there are so many issues in the country,” he said in Twi.
About removal of Hopesop Adorye, others from the NPP:
The NPP leadership announced on Monday, November 20, 2023, that Adorye, along with Yaw Buaben Asamoa, Nana Ohene Ntow, and Boniface Abubakar Saddique, are no longer members of the party due to their public endorsement and campaign for Independent presidential candidate, Alan Kyerematen.
In an official statement, the NPP cited the quartet’s “flagrant breach” of the party’s constitution, specifically referring to Articles 3(5) (A)(4) and 3(9)(1). The party emphasized the importance of members abiding by and publicly upholding party decisions, as per Article 3(5) (A) (4).
Furthermore, Article 3(9) (I) states that any member supporting an independent candidate against the party’s officially elected member automatically forfeits party membership.
The NPP urged its members to remain steadfast in supporting the officially elected Presidential Candidate, Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia, and to collaborate towards achieving victory in the upcoming 2024 polls.
Watch Hopeson Adorye’s remarks in the video below:
Gabby Otchere Darko forced National Executives to sack me from NPP
Amerado’s impactful song “Kwaku Ananse” continues to resonate with audiences of diverse ages and backgrounds.
The latest accolade comes from a former Deputy Editor at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and the current Chief Editor for UN News, Ben Dotsei Malor,
Malor, impressed by the profound message of the song, took to his Facebook page to share a promotional video for the remix, describing the message as “uplifting.”
Despite not fully understanding the Twi language, Malor found himself intrigued by the song’s themes of resilience and perseverance.
He dubbed it “A Hustler’s Anthem” and expressed a keen interest in a full translation of the lyrics.
“Something determined about this – I think he’s about resilience: just stumbled upon this lovely and uplifting music #kwakuananseremix by Amerado Burner. not understanding all the Twi lyrics, but hearing, “life is a lonely journey” and “I’m a soldier” and I fear not. I fall and rise again. Feels like a hustler’s anthem. Well, I hope someone provides the full (translated) lyrics, please. enjoy,” he wrote.
Appreciative of Ben Dotsei Malor’s endorsement, Amerado responded to the post with gratitude.
Malor, previously the Communications Director and Presidential Spokesperson for Ghana, shared that he had been consistently listening to the song from his residence in South Sudan.
“Awesome, bro. Greetings from South Sudan. Repeating your song for the umpteenth time. God bless your hustle. God bless you more and beyond the shores of Ghana. Well done. More power to you,” Malor wrote to Amerado.
Amerado’s “Kwaku Ananse” is a powerful story of resilience, resonating with listeners in Ghana and worldwide.
Following the success of the original version released a few months ago, Amerado collaborated with ‘Notin I Get’ hitmaker, Famaye, to create an even better remix.
