Due to the declining blood supply in the country’s hospitals and a rise in blood shortages, the National Insurance Commission (NIC) is partnering with various organizations in Ghana’s insurance sector to replenish blood banks nationwide on September 27, 2023.
The objective is to safeguard the lives of pregnant women in labor, children, accident victims, and others who may require blood for their survival.
In a statement released by the insurance regulator, the blood donation initiative has become a necessity, urging the insurance industry to contribute to restocking the nation’s blood banks.
“The insurance industry does not work in isolation from the people they are expected to insure either by way of their lives or by the assets that are insured,” the statement read.
“This gesture by the Insurance industry followed a request to the NIC by the National Blood Service (NBS) to the industry in 2021 to help re-stock the country’s blood banks which were fast running out of stock. As part of the Industry’s Corporate Social Responsibility, the entire insurance industry kick-started this annual campaign and donated 801 units of blood in 2021. The numbers increased exponentially in 2022 with a record 2,015,” it added.
The NIC also announced that the industry is preparing for another nationwide blood donation campaign this year, with higher expectations.
Dr. Emmanuel K. Srofenyoh, Director of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital at Ridge, will deliver the keynote address at the launch of the 2023 Blood Donation Campaign on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at the NIC’s headquarters in Accra.
The theme for this year’s campaign is “Donate blood; save a life – as you do it for someone, you do it for yourself.”
Additionally, the Chief Executive Officers of insurance companies will be the first to donate blood to support the Oncology Unit of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in observance of Childhood Cancer Month (September).
A video has emerged online showing the removal of campaign posters belonging to Alan Kyerematen from a New Patriotic Party (NPP) office.
The former Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Kyerematen, recently resigned from the NPP and declared his candidacy as an independent for the 2024 presidential elections.
In the footage, NPP members can be seen taking down these posters displayed on a building adorned with the party’s colors.
He is heard voicing his frustration, declaring, “You cannot take such a nonsense decision, and your posters will remain here,” as he removes the posters from the walls.
Another individual behind the camera is heard offering vocal support for the removal effort, repeatedly urging, “Remove them, remove them. Your posters cannot be pasted in our party office. You are not the one who rented the house for us.”
An aggrieved member is heard adding: “We have pampered you for a long time. You can’t come and destroy the party for us. You have enjoyed from the party, and now that you have realized that they are not good people…”
In his official statement, Alan Kyerematen said, “Under the circumstances and given the context, I am honorably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest the high office of the presidency of 2024 as an independent presidential candidate.”
In his official statement, Alan Kyerematen said, “Under the circumstances and given the context, I am honorably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest the high office of the presidency of 2024 as an independent presidential candidate.”
Data from the Bank of Ghana reveals that as of August 2023, Ghana’s export earnings experienced a 9% decline. According to the report, the total exports during this period amounted to US$10.76 billion, which is notably lower than the US$11.81 billion recorded in August 2022.
For the initial eight months of the year, the trade account showed a surplus of US$2.0 billion, in contrast to the US$1.6 billion recorded in the same period the previous year. This surplus was primarily a result of import compression and a decrease in exports.
Gold exports remained Ghana’s dominant export commodity, followed closely by cocoa. Gold exports increased from US$4.22 billion to US$4.67 billion.
The total export earnings saw an 8.9% year-on-year decline to US$10.8 billion, primarily due to a significant reduction in crude oil and cocoa products exports. Crude oil exports, in particular, dropped by US$1.5 billion, attributed to an 18.8% decrease in production volumes and a 23.6% decline in prices. Meanwhile, cocoa exports only slightly decreased from US$1.61 billion to US$1.60 billion. Additionally, oil exports saw a significant decline from US$3.82 billion to US$2.65 billion, while other exports decreased from US$2.16 billion to US$2.11 billion.
The trade balance to GDP ratio increased to 2.6%, higher than the 2.1% recorded in 2022.
On the import side, Ghana experienced a reduction from US$10.25 billion to US$8.74 billion. Total imports contracted by 14.7% to US$8.8 billion, compared to the previous year’s US$10.3 billion. This decline was attributed to a 13.1% contraction in non-oil imports to US$6.1 billion and an 18.2% dip in oil and gas imports to US$2.7 billion.
Senior political science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Legon, has asserted that the impact made by former President John Mahama’s in addressing corruption surpasses that of President Akufo-Addo.
This statement comes in light of the recent arrest of the group known as Democracy Hub during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration on Thursday, September 21, 2023. The Police had filed an application in court and successfully served the organizers of Democracy Hub, who had planned a demonstration near the Jubilee House from Thursday, September 21st, to Saturday, September 23rd, 2023.
During an interview on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tetteh on Monday, the political science lecturer expressed his opinion that while the current government has taken certain measures to combat corruption, the administration of former President Mahama performed better in this regard.
“When you look at Transparency International figures, if you look at what we have done from 2013 the scores. The scores say that the closer you are to zero is the highly corrupt your country is and the closer you are to hundred the highly clean your records are.
“The figures for 2013-46 percent, 2014-48, 2025-47, 2016-43 it tells you about Mahama’s era that the highest performance was 48 and the lowest which was closest to zero that was in 2016 recorded 43 percent,” Dr. Asante stated.
He continued: “The score for Nana Akufo-Addo’s government from 2017 is 40 percent, 2019-41, 2020-43, 2021-43, 2022-43percent. It tells you that the highest performance under Nana Akufo-Addo’s government is 43 percent that is 2020 to 2022 and the lowest is 40.
“What it tells you is that Mahama’s lowest performance in the chart sheet in the fight against corruption was Nana’s highest. It means corruption is pervasive in the country.”
Dr. Asante went on to say that given the country’s economic suffering, the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protestors cannot be blamed for their behavior.
Deputy Finance Minister Abena Osei-Asare and Member of Parliament for Bortianor-Ngleshie Amanfro constituency, Sylvester Tetteh, have issolated themselves from former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant Alan Kyerematen’s resolution to contend as an independent candidate in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Osei-Asare and Tetteh, who were previously strong supporters of Alan Kyerematen’s campaign to lead the NPP as its flagbearer, have now reaffirmed their allegiance to the NPP and openly expressed their disapproval of Kyerematen’s independent candidacy.
Joining the ranks of disappointed pro-Alan MPs is Davis Ansah Opoku (OPK) of Mpraeso, who released a statement expressing his discontent and accusing his former leader of betraying party loyalty and unity.
“The decision is profoundly disappointing. It is a disheartening departure from the principles of party loyalty and unity, which are fundamental to our democratic process. The NPP has always thrived on the strength of its agreement and the collective support of its members,” his statement read in part.
Abena Osei-Asare, who established a personal and professional contact with Kyerematen, stated unequivocally her devotion to the NPP and its beliefs.
In a press statement, she stated, “First and foremost, while I enjoy both a personal and professional relationship with Hon. Alan Kyerematen, characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to our nation’s progress, I must respectfully distance myself from his recent choice.”
Sylvester Tetteh, on his part, indicated that his support for was conditional on Kyerematen remaining a member of the NPP, and that now that he (Kyerematen) has chosen an independent route, he has transferred his support to Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia.
Sylvester Tetteh expressed his rationale for this decision, stating, “I was supporting Alan Kyerematen to become the flagbearer of our party so that everyone within the party would support him to become the president because I cannot singlehandedly make Alan Kyerematen president,” he said in an interview on Asempa FM on September 25,2023.
He continued, “As I speak to you, I have a choice in who should lead our party. So, with that choice, it is my responsibility to work for him to become the leader of our party and subsequently become the president. Any other candidate is not known to me Sylvester, and my political ambition is because I serve the NPP, I remain an NPP person. Alan Kyerematen is a Ghanaian until his announcement he is a member of our party I respect him but his aspirations and mine are contradicting so for that reason we are on our own on different pages.”
Alan Kyerematen formally resigned from the party on Monday, September 25, 2023, and stated his intention to run for the presidency as an independent candidate in the impending 2024 elections.
Alan Kyerematen’s move follows his departure from the NPP’s flagbearer election, which was precipitated by a less-than-pleasant outcome at the Super Delegates Conference in August 2023.
He explained his rationale, stating, “Under the circumstances and given the context, I am honorably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest the high office of the presidency in 2024 as an independent presidential candidate.”
The Association of Ghana Industries – Energy Service Centre (AGI-ESC), with support from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, is launching an Energy Efficiency Network in Ghana.
This pioneering network, as outlined in a joint statement, aims to promote collaborative sustainability in advancing energy efficiency and renewable energy in the country’s industrial sector.
The Energy Efficiency Network, the first of its kind in Ghana, is expected to yield energy and financial savings while contributing to climate protection.
It will serve as a comprehensive platform for industries in the Greater Accra Region to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs, lower carbon emissions, and boost competitiveness, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This initiative will run until December 2025 and will include the participation of 13 large industries. Participating companies will receive essential technical support, including a comprehensive energy audit compliant with ISO 50002:2014 standards.
“This enables companies to assess their energy and CO2 savings potential, estimate the cost of the required investments, analyze the economic benefits of the measures, individual energy savings targets and the return on investment for each measure,” the statement said.
“The companies will also be provided with additional support to implement these recommended measures in their production processes. The platform will facilitate knowledge exchange, best practice sharing, and capacity-building to equip participants with innovative energy-saving techniques and technologies,” it added.
Chief Executive Officer of the AGI, Seth Twum-Akwaboah on his part said, “the Energy Efficiency Network represents a pivotal moment for Ghana’s industrial landscape. The AGI is proud to partner with GIZ to strengthen our commitment to sustainable development and energy conservation.”
“By empowering our members to adopt energy-efficient practices, we can drive positive change, achieve cost savings, and bolster Ghana’s position in the global market,” he added.
In the meantime, the Accra Holiday Inn Hotel will host the official launch of the Energy Efficiency Network on September 28, 2023.
The Bank of Ghana has affirmed that Ghana’s International Monetary Fund (IMF) program is delivering positive outcomes, citing improved economic indicators in recent months.
Dr. Ernest Addison, the Governor, highlighted positive trends in factors such as the exchange rate and inflation during a press briefing by the Monetary Policy Committee on September 25, 2023. He stated, “The Committee has noted the overall improvement in domestic macroeconomic conditions, with robust economic growth and a decrease in inflation in August.
These developments indicate that the policy framework established under the three-year IMF Extended Credit Facility is starting to show results.”
“Economic activity is rebounding strongly, the exchange rate is stabilising, inflation is declining, and the level of foreign exchange reserves has improved. Sustained improvement in these indicators should result in the restoration of real incomes and purchasing power,” he said.
Ghana anticipates the arrival of the second portion of the IMF loan by year-end, according to the Governor. He emphasized that “During the final quarter of the year, reserve buildup will be reinforced by anticipated funds from the cocoa syndication loan, the second installment of the IMF ECF program, and additional multilateral inflows.”
In line with its commitment to promoting local content participation in Ghana’s oil and gas sector, Tullow has joined forces with the Upstream Petroleum Business Academy of the Petroleum Commission (PC) to provide training to local suppliers.
The training, themed “Closing the Gap Workshop on Reverse Auctions,” was conducted by Tullow’s Chief Procurement Officer, Atul Sahay, alongside representatives from the Petroleum Commission and Tullow Ghana. The session, attended by 150 suppliers, offered comprehensive insights into Reverse Auctions, their significance in the tendering and contracting processes within the industry’s supply chain, and the broader benefits of such auctions, reinforced through case studies.
Sarah Quayson Danquah, Director of Localisation at the Petroleum Commission, expressed strong support for building a robust local capacity within the sector during her remarks at the training session. She commended Tullow for its commitment to nurturing a competitive local supplier base.
Atul Sahay, Chief Procurement Officer at Tullow, stated, “Our commitment is to develop the capacity and competence of local suppliers in the oil and gas industry in Ghana. We remain committed, as a company, to creating a sustainable and progressive marketplace for current and prospective suppliers who want to play a key role in the industry.”
Local content has consistently been a fundamental aspect of Ghana’s thriving oil and gas sector since the discovery of commercial oil reserves in 2007. Tullow, with its long-standing presence in Ghana, has been a pivotal advocate for this cause for fifteen years.
During a subsequent Market Day event organized for suppliers, Cynthia Lumor, Deputy Managing Director for Ghana at Tullow, emphasized the company’s commitment to promoting local participation, recognizing its vital role in the country’s growth, development, and prosperity.
In 2022, Tullow’s expenditure with local suppliers reached a total of $173 million, with $169 million allocated to Ghana alone, constituting 15% of the company’s local procurement spend (14% in Ghana). Over the past five years, Tullow’s total spending in this category has amounted to approximately $1.2 billion. Furthermore, the company currently employs over 72% of local nationals in Ghana, with a pledge to achieve a target of 90% within the next three to five years.
Secretary of the Kumasi Central Market Traders Union, Emilia Kwofie, has announced their intention to protest against the government due to delays in the second phase of the Kejetia Central Market redevelopment project. Some traders have been displaced since the market’s demolition.
In an interview with Citi News, Emilia Kwofie mentioned that the union is in discussions with the police to schedule a demonstration so that affected traders can return to work.
She noted that despite promises from the Mayor of Kumasi that construction would commence after receiving a loan from the International Monetary Fund, the project remains stalled even after the initial funds were disbursed.
“We have been to the mayor’s office a couple of times to inquire because you just can’t demonstrate when you don’t have any concrete information. We were assured that if the IMF money comes, work will commence. Unfortunately, we have realized that even though the IMF money is in, no work is done. There are quite a number of us who were evacuated from the place,” Secretary of the combined Kumasi Central Market Traders Union said.
She added that, “So our people keep pushing that if we want to go diplomatically and the government is not listening to us, then we will have to take it to the streets. So that somebody sees us and nobody hears us. As we talk to you now, we are still talking with the police to give us a date when we can demonstrate. All we want is for work to resume so that we can start our businesses; we can’t stay in the house forever.”
However, the newspaper noted that Kumasi’s mayor, Samuel Pyne, had not specified a precise time for the start of work.
He claimed that talks over the project are still going on with the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Finance.
NDC’s National Communication Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, has described Alan Kyerematen “not viable” in response to his resignation from the NPP.
Alan officially submitted his resignation letter indicating he was no longer interested in being a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Monday [September 25, 2023].
In a post shared on X on Monday, September 25, 2023, Sammy Gyamfi expressed empathy for Alan but pointed out that Alan had played a role in the current hardships faced by Ghanaians and could not absolve himself from it.
He also asserted that Alan, much like the NPP, didn’t bring anything new to the table for Ghanaians and should not be supported.
“The point has to be made forcefully, that Alan is not a viable alternative to the failed incumbent NPP government as a cabinet minister responsible for Trade and Industry and a member of the Economic Management team from 2017-2023, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen actively participated in the destruction of the economy into the mess it is today.
“Under his watch, the Komenda Sugar Factory was abandoned to rot for almost six (6) years. Growth of the manufacturing sector declined significantly and businesses were suffocated by the bad policies of his Ministry and government leading to several job losses,” parts of the post reads.
The significant setback Alan experienced at the party’s special delegate conferences, he continued, was the only reason Alan left the NPP.
“Would Alan have resigned from the NPP if he had been treated fairly by the NPP in their ongoing Presidential primaries?
“Clearly, it is the pain of rejection by the super delegates of the NPP and the intimidation and harassment of his supporters which is fueling Alan’s latest decision and not any superior passion to help heal the partisan divisions in the country. But it is too late for Alan to jump ship now. Alan is not and cannot be the solution to the very mess he participated in creating!” he added.
About Alan’s resignation from the NPP and running as an independent candidate in the 2024 election:
Speaking at a press conference in Accra, on Monday, September 25, 2023, Alan Kyeremateng, announced his decision to leave the NPP and also contest as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential elections.
He said that even though it was his wish to become president of Ghana on the ticket of the NPP, the party has now been hijacked by ‘unscrupulous party apparatchiks’.
“The NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, “behind the curtain power brokers” and some unscrupulous Party apparatchiks.
“… I wish to use this platform to announce that I am honourably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana in the 2024 general elections as an independent presidential candidate,” he said.
Alan added that his presidential ambition would be run by a movement led by the youth.
“To actualise this goal, I will establish and lead a new MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE in Ghana. The brand logo for the MOVEMENT is the Monarch Butterfly, which politically symbolizes change and transformation, hope, and positivity. It also communicates strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, which are key traits that I cherish as a Political Leader. In Akan, it is known as Afrafranto. The brand motto of the MOVEMENT is “Ghana Will Rise Again,” which symbolizes hope for the future of Ghana.
“The new Movement will be led and powered by the youth of Ghana. Out of the over 17 million registered voters in the 2020 general election, the youth aged 18-35, years constituted over 9.4 million voters representing 55% of the total voters,” he said.
Read Sammy Gyamfi’s post below:
*On the matter of Alan Kyeremanteng’s resignation from the failed NPP;*
1. It is an indisputable fact, that Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanteng has not been treated fairly by his party, the NPP.
2. The NPP under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo has never been truly democratic.
There is no way Alan could have gotten a modicum of fairness or justice in the ongoing presidential primaries of the NPP under the leadership of the despotic tyrant, Akufo-Addo who is hellbent on installing his puppet as his successor and continues to oppress persons who disagree with him. Former NPP National Chairman, Paul Afoko and former General Secretary, Kwabena Agyepong come to mind readily.
3. I understand Alan’s pain and do empathize with him. He and his supporters have continuously been victims of intimidation, unprovoked harassment and violence. His resignation from the NPP is therefore understandable.
4.The basis of his resignation from the NPP is the more reason why no democratic or peace-loving Ghanaian must join or vote for the NPP.
5.*However, the point has to be made forcefully, that Alan is not a viable alternative to the failed incumbent NPP government.*
As a Cabinet Minister responsible for Trade and Industry and a member of the Economic Management team from 2017-2023, Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanteng actively participated in the destruction of the economy into the mess it is today.
Under his watch, the Komenda Sugar Factory was abandoned to rot for almost six (6) years. Growth of the manufacturing sector declined significantly and businesses were suffocated by the bad policies of his Ministry and government leading to several job losses.
5. Would Alan have resigned from the NPP if he had been treated fairly by the NPP in their ongoing Presidential primaries?
Clearly, it is the pain of rejection by the super delegates of the NPP and the intimidation and harassment of his supporters which is fueling Alan’s latest decision and not any superior passion to help heal the partisan divisions in the country. But it is too late for Alan to jump ship now.
*ALAN IS NOT AND CANNOT BE THE SOLUTION TO THE VERY MESS HE PARTICIPATED IN CREATING!*
ALAN = BAWUMIA = NPP THE VALUE IS THE SAME!
SAMMY GYAMFI ESQ. National Communications Officer, NDC
A contract offer from Sentuo Oil Refinery, circulating online, offering a monthly salary of GH¢1,500 for the position of engineer, has sparked outrage among a segment of the Ghanaian population.
These individuals are demanding transparency and accountability from the government.
It’s important to note that the GH¢1,500 salary includes deductions for SSNIT (Social Security and National Insurance Trust) and other income tax deductions.
Previously, there were reports of the company paying some of its workers only GH¢800.
The government had granted Sentuo Oil over GH¢200 million in tax exemptions to facilitate the construction of the refinery.
Ghanaians argue that if the government provides tax exemptions to a foreign company, it should ensure that its citizens are fairly compensated when they work for these institutions.
According to a document sighted by GhanaWeb, the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, submitted a request for parliament approval to consider and approve the waiver of “Import duties, Import NHIL, Import GETFUND, Import VAT, and EXIM levy, amounting to Ghana Cedi equivalent of Two Hundred and Six-One Million, Six Hundred and Forty-Eight Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty-Three United States Dollars (US$261,648,353) in favour Sentuo Oil Refinery Limited.”
According to the GIPC Act 2013, Act 865 on supplies and equipment, Sentuo Oil Refinery Ltd. allegedly submitted an application for a strategic investor under section 26(4) of the said Act.
The document further noted that, in a letter dated February 6, 2023, the president gave final clearance for the tax waiver for the consideration and decision of Parliament.
The Tema Oil Refinery is believed to have a larger capacity, although the refinery only employs 420 people, compared to TOR’s more than 650.
“The refinery anticipates employing about 420 personnel. Staffing for the Refinery primarily consists of process units and auxiliary facilities personnel and is therefore driven by the characteristics of the Refinery’s facilities which range from complex processing units to somewhat simplified utility and offsite systems,” parts of the document read.
“In addition, a second major driver is that the Refinery operates continuously with a minimum annual on-stream time of 8,400 hours. For continuously operated units, there will be three shifts rotating in the daily cycle with a fourth shift required as relief, while for non-continuously operated units, two shifts or one shift according to needs,” it added.
Users of X (formerly Twitter) have voiced their concerns about how Ghanaians employed by international corporations are treated.
Sentuo Oil Refinery which the government has granted over $200m in tax exemption has offered its engineer monthly salary of paltry GHS1,500.00
The country has really cast and as a matter of urgency the government must call this company to order. pic.twitter.com/UMtduwzl5J
If any engineers goes to accept this Ghc1500, even though you have no respect fo urself the most disappointing aspect of all of this the complete embarrassment you going to bring to noble engineering profession
Officials, including Derna’s mayor, Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi, have been arrested in Libya, where the city has been devastated by intense flooding. These officials are facing charges connected to the calamitous disaster that claimed thousands of lives in eastern Libya earlier this month.
Last week, in a display of anger and frustration, residents of Derna set fire to the mayor’s residence as a form of protest.
The attorney general’s office, based in the capital city of Tripoli, announced on Monday that these officials, including Mr. al-Ghaithi, were “responsible for managing the country’s dam facilities” and, as a result, were the subjects of a criminal case. Some of these officials were already in custody awaiting trial.
In a statement issued on Monday, the attorney general’s office detailed numerous alleged failings by these officials. These included mismanaging funds designated for dam maintenance, which ultimately led to dam breaches and the catastrophic floods in Derna. Additionally, the officials were accused of negligence, which resulted in flood-related deaths and substantial economic losses for Libya. Mr. al-Ghaithi faces further accusations of abusing his authority.
Libya is divided into two rival administrations, one in the east and one in the west. Given the attorney general’s location in Tripoli in the west, it raises questions about the extent to which he can order arrests in the eastern region.
As of Sunday, the eastern government reported that the confirmed death toll from the floods had risen to 3,868. The attorney general’s office indicated that investigations into other officials were ongoing, suggesting the possibility of further arrests.
Google paid tribute to South African jazz pianist, composer, and journalist Todd Matshikiza by unveiling a doodle on Monday.
Matshikiza, who passed away in 1968 at the age of 47, is celebrated as one of South Africa’s most significant trailblazers in the realms of arts and culture.
The doodle, prominently displayed on Google’s homepage, was crafted by South African artist Keith Vlahakis.
Google stated, “On this day in 1956, his commissioned cantata Uxolo (peace) was played by the orchestra at the 70th Johannesburg Festival,” explaining the choice to honor Matshikiza on September 25.
Notably, Matshikiza is recognized for his composition “Quickly in Love,” featured in the 2013 film “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.” He is also acclaimed for his musical contributions to stage productions like “King Kong” and “Mkhumbane.”
Google frequently employs its doodles, creative variations of its logos, to commemorate anniversaries or celebrate the lives of notable individuals.
The Beninese government has issued an order for a comprehensive assessment of all fuel storage facilities in response to the tragic explosion that claimed numerous lives over the weekend.
A devastating explosion occurred at a fuel depot in southern Benin on Saturday, resulting in the loss of at least 34 lives.
In a statement from the Ministry of Decentralization and Governance, the directive for an “exhaustive assessment” of all fuel depots aims to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents in other regions.
The statement cautioned, “Despite the government’s efforts to raise awareness and implement measures to curb smuggling activities, especially those related to the improper storage and sale of gasoline throughout the country, some individuals persist in storing gasoline in inappropriate locations.”
The incident on Saturday transpired at a depot situated in a densely populated market within the southern town of Seme Podji, near the border with Nigeria.
Benin’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, informed the press that among the victims, there were two infants.
Furthermore, over 20 individuals sustained injuries and were receiving medical care at local hospitals.
Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has received a cautionary notice regarding his public jogging sessions, with the police categorizing his workouts as “political activism.”
In an official statement, the police asserted that Mr. Lungu’s exercise routines, conducted with the accompaniment of members from his Patriotic Front (PF) party and without his security personnel, constituted an “unlawful assembly.”
The former head of state has been instructed to inform the police in advance of his intentions to jog in the future “to ensure public safety and proper traffic management.”
Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga emphasized that Mr. Lungu must strictly adhere to security protocols and abstain from engaging in any form of political activism.
This development follows Mr. Lungu’s recent legal action against the government, alleging that he was prevented from traveling to South Korea for a conference. Subsequently, he withdrew the case.
After holding office for six years, Mr. Lungu faced defeat in the 2021 presidential election, losing to Hakainde Hichilema. There is widespread speculation that he is contemplating a political comeback in the 2026 elections.
Ace broadcaster, Naa Ashorkor Doku-Mensah has teamed up with colleague, Berla Mundi, to grill NPP Youth Organizer, Salam Mustapha, over comment he made against #OccupyJulorBiHouse protestors in the past three days.
Salam had labeled the protest’s results, along with other initiatives done by civil society organizations to pressure the government into addressing problems plaguing the populace, as “rhetoric” and “bordering on politics” in that statement.
During a live phone interview on the New Day Morning show on Tv3, Berla Mundi responded to Mr. Salam’s remarks and strongly criticized him for characterizing the protest as mere rhetoric without substance.
“Don’t you find that disrespectful to the young people who voted for your president and vice president to come into power. Reason why you also proberly occupy the position that you had occupied even before within the party you began your job as the National Youth Organizer?
“Berla, I don’t know where you’re coming from with the word ‘disrespect’ because there’s no disrespect as far as opinions are concerned. If we express our opinions, you can’t call that disrespect,” he answered.
But disgruntled Naa Ashorkor quickly butts in with her concerns by pointing out the issues Salam had labeled as rhetoric, which included concerns about the Motorway, road repairs, the cost of living, and related matters. She then directly questioned Salam, asking if he personally uses the Accra-Tema Motorway.
“Of course, I do,” he responded, quickly followed by the question, “What is the state of the Motorway in your opinion?”
However, Naa Ashorkor appeared visibly frustrated, her body language clearly conveying her impatience as she rolled up her sleeves in preparation to respond. She interrupted once more:
“If you use the Motorway today, you’ll see that work is ongoing, especially from the interchange being done from the Spintex to East Legon, to the Motorway. So, if you see what we did in 2019 when the second stage was commissioned, we said we’re starting the third phase, which includes the interchange…” he argued.
“OK, let me tell you. I was on the Motorway yesterday and I noticed there is work around the Accra Mall end of the Motorway – before the toll booth. The actual Motorway, which has been the cause of countless accidents over the, I don’t know how many years, I was afraid for my life while I drove on the Motorway yesterday. The potholes are endless. There’s been a constant call by young people, in fact, all Ghanaians, asking for the Motorway to be fixed.
“I do not think that if people are out on the streets, calling for these things to be fixed, that it is okay for you to write a very long letter, calling these things rhetorics bordered on political lines. I do not think that just as you have agreed that the Motorway is bad, you should throw it off as a rhetoric. I also do not think that the many things that who feels it knows it, perhaps because of your position, or because of the experiences you have in your little world, you probably do not experience the things that people out on the streets experience. And because it is their fundamental human right – the freedom of expression, that means that they can say what they feel, in a peaceful protest, I do not think that it is alright for you, for the lack of the same challenges that they’re experiencing, that you don’t experience, I don’t think it’s ok for you to come out to call them rhetoric bordered on political lines.
“I think the least you could have done was to go ahead to mention the achievements of the party, which you did, which is fair, but to downplay, to water down, or to call irrelevant the things that the people are complaining about is a tad bit unfair. And so when Berla asked you earlier whether in hindsight, you would like to reconsider your position, especially in point number 3, I, honestly, expected you to come again, but for you to consistently say that after three days of the protest, you are unable to take home the most salient reason and demand for the protest and consider them as nothing concrete, I beg you to come again. Have you been to Korle-Bu in recent times? Do you not understand the plight of the ordinary Ghanaian?” she stated.
Watch video below:
Berla Mundi and Naa Ashorkor more fire, don’t stop cooking 🔥🔥👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Kenya’s governing coalition senator’s proposal to increase the presidential term limit from the existing five to seven years has sparked strong reactions across the nation.
President William Ruto, who has only been in power for approximately a year, may not have enough time to deliver his campaign platform, according to Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei.
The opposition has accused the government of attempting to eliminate presidential term limits, which has infuriated a segment of Kenyans.
“On the contrary, it should be reduced to four years one term each for the next six elections. This is the only sure way to bring national cohesion and to prevent vested interests from entrenching themselves, thus allowing constitutionalism to be fully established,” an X user posted.
“If any leader cannot deliver in a period of 10 years, what is the need for adding four more?” another user wondered.
A proposal to abolish presidential term limits in the nation was made by a different UDA lawmaker in November of last year, but President Ruto rejected it.
In Kenya, the presidential term limit is established at two, and any modification would need to be approved by referendum.
In a significant development, Niger’s military rulers have issued a ban on French aircraft from accessing the country’s airspace.
This decision was announced by the air safety agency, ASECNA, which clarified that Niger’s skies remain open to all commercial flights, except those affiliated with or chartered by France.
It’s worth noting that France, as the former colonial power, maintains a presence of approximately 1,500 troops within Niger.
Niger had recently reopened its airspace earlier this month, following a closure that lasted nearly four weeks.
The initial closure was attributed to concerns about potential intervention by neighboring countries.
This move came in response to the regional bloc, ECOWAS, which had threatened military action following a military coup in July.
The UNESCO-Huawei tech-enabled open school systems project, is anticipated to profit approximately 3,000 students from Ghana.
Its primary objective is to ensure the consistency and quality of learning, both in typical educational settings and during emergency situations.
This initiative involves the development, evaluation, implementation, and expansion of resilient systems that can seamlessly connect classroom instruction with remote learning.
Furthermore, the project is expected to provide digital inclusion and sustainability benefits to 1,000 teachers in Ghana.
Referred to as TECH4ALL, this collaborative effort between UNESCO and Huawei is a partnership involving the education ministries and associated partners of Ghana, Egypt, and Ethiopia. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and focuses on addressing significant global challenges in the realms of education, environmental conservation, healthcare, and rural development.
Initiated in 2020, the project is scheduled for completion in July 2024. Ken Hu, the Rotating Chairman of Huawei Technologies, emphasized during Huawei Connect 2023 that TECH4ALL aims to promote inclusivity by empowering marginalized individuals with the skills and resources necessary to fully harness digital technology in their daily lives.
“In particular, we provide digital skills training for underserved groups for people with disabilities, women and remote communities while we continuously enhance the accessibility of our products and services.”
He added, “to date, we have provided training for over 220,000 people around the globe and more that 5.2 million people make use of the accessibility features on Huawei deices every month.”
For his side, Diaby Moustapha Mamy (Ing.), Senior Advisor, ICT and Digital Transformation, African Union Commission Office of the Deputy Chairperson, thinks that digital inclusion is the key to releasing Africa’s full digital potential. In a statement, he claimed that the African continent is realizing the importance of maximizing its potential in every area of life.
Moustapha Mamy noted, “One of the seven aspirations of Africa’s Agenda 2063 is to build a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development. The continent’s digital transformation can achieve that goal based on six priority sectors set by the African Union; industry, trade, financial services, government, education, health, and agriculture. The strategy built on existing frameworks and initiatives and is designed to create an empowered and skilled population”.
Huawei’s mission and vision, to bring digital to every person, home, and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world, serve as the inspiration for TECH4ALL.
A hopeful candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer position, Kennedy Agyapong, has again launched a pointed criticism at Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
This critique comes in response to claims made by supporters of Vice President Bawumia that ken Agyapong is not fit for the presidential role.
During his recent tour in the United States over the weekend, Ken Agyapong addressed NPP members. He emphasized his track record of creating thousands of well-paying jobs for Ghanaians. In contrast, he questioned Vice President Bawumia’s qualifications for the presidency, pointing out a perceived lack of job creation associated with him.
Agyapong, who currently serves as the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, went further to suggest that even the domestic help of Dr. Bawumia is financially supported by the government.
“Every entrepreneur has a creative mind… I have been able to employ over 7,000 Ghanaians, and you tell me I am not a presidential material while the person who you say is a presidential material’s houseboy is paid by the government.
“You say this guy is presidential material. Someone who would not have anything to do when you remove him from the government today is a presidential material,” he said in Twi.
“You don’t pay your bill and you come out saying you’re a presidential material. Your pocket is empty and you say you are presidential material, your pocket is empty. The government is paying for your house girl, the government is paying for your gardener, the government is paying for your security… I pay people who pay their children’s school fees and give chop money every day. The two of us who is a presidential material?” he quizzed.
He says critics label him as not “presidential material,” but he remains undeterred. He lamented Ghana’s untapped potential, citing visionless leadership for widespread poverty despite abundant natural resources.
In its latest treasury bill auction held on September 22, 2023, the government successfully raised GH¢3.09 billion.
The results revealed a strong demand for the bills, with subscriptions exceeding the set target of GH¢2.585 billion by GH¢511.14 million.
However, the prevailing interest rates have continued to climb, reaching 32.5%. This uptick in interest rates is causing growing concerns, as it implies that the government will have to allocate more resources to meet the maturity payments.
According to data from the Bank of Ghana, none of the bids submitted in this week’s auction were accepted, despite the oversubscription.
Some analysts suggest that, given the high interest rates observed, the government might consider rejecting bids and conducting future auctions at lower rates.
Specifically, the 91-day and 182-day bills offer interest rates of 28.5% and 30.6%, respectively, while the 364-day bills feature an increased interest rate of 32.50%.
In terms of subscription, the 91-day bill received total bids of GH¢2.11 billion, GH¢548.72 billion was accepted for the 182-day bill, and GH¢433.28 million was accepted for the 364-day bills.
Looking ahead, the government has set its target for the next auction at GH¢2.570 billion.
Communication Team Member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Emmanuel Anyimah, also known as Ellembele K.K, has expressed strong displeasure at the apparent silence of certain religious leaders and the National Peace Council regarding the Electoral Commission’s handling of the limited voter registration exercise.
His comment comes on the back of claims that Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, is disenfranchising Ghanaians over the limited voter registration exercise.
Ellembele K.K. is pointing out that their silence is unusual, as they are usually known for addressing public concerns on such matters.
“You see what is more annoying is the people who are quiet in this country and I will mention some of them. Duncan Williams is quiet. Pastor Mensah Otabil, they are quiet. All these individuals who used to voice their opinions have fallen silent. The Peace Council, too, remains silent. They are all well aware that what the woman is doing is incorrect, yet they maintain their silence,” the communication team member of the NDC expressed.
Meawhile, Madam Jean Mensa, has also provided reassurance to Ghanaians, affirming that her organization will not exclude any eligible voter in the upcoming general elections.
She emphasized that the Commission has taken all necessary measures to ensure that every qualified voter is included in the EC’s poll book.
She stressed, “We have heard allegations from various quarters that the commission is seeking to disenfranchise eligible voters. This is false; we have no interest in disenfranchising any eligible person.”
On Tuesday September 12, 2023, the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) began the process of registering new voters for the upcoming December 19 District Level Elections.
This registration exercise, mandated by Article 45 of the 1992 Constitution, will be conducted at the 268 District Offices of the Commission, a departure from the previous practice of conducting limited registration exercises at electoral areas.
The 21-day registration period is open to Ghanaians who have reached the voting age of 18 years since the last registration in 2020, as well as those who are over 18 but were unable to register during the previous exercise.
Ghanaian company responsible for manufacturing the Ghana Card, Margins ID Group, has provided a comprehensive explanation of the e-passport features incorporated into the Ghana Card.
This detailed disclosure follows the recognition of the Ghana Card by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
During a recent stakeholders forum held in Accra, which included members of the media, Moses Baiden, the Chief Executive of Margins, elucidated that the Ghana Card comprises three secure identity profiles, one of which is the electronic passport (e-passport).
This e-passport, as confirmed by ICAO certification over a year ago, adheres to the highest international standards.
Moses Baiden further expounded that the e-passport embedded within the Ghana Card encompasses all vital information found on the biodata page of a traditional paper passport, including the holder’s name, date of birth, and other pertinent biographical details.
The Ghana Card is equipped with a unique electronic chip, as highlighted by the CEO of Margins. This chip houses a collection of read-only files and employs sophisticated cryptographic mechanisms to safeguard the document’s security and the passport holder’s privacy.
“The biographic and biometric data contained in the electronic chip on the Ghana Card can therefore be compared to both the traveller and the travel document (paper passport) being presented respectively. There are multiple layers of security in the e-passport that prevent duplication,” he explained.
“The e-passport on the Ghana Card meets the highest ICAO international standards at par with the most advanced countries.”
He went on to say that the Ghana Card’s chip contains three profiles that can be utilized to interface with any global application.
“The three are ICAO Document 9303 Passport Profile, which means it is a machine-readable travel document; an electronic ID (e-ID) Profile and a Match On Card (MOC) Profile, which facilitates secure connection to digital platforms and enables authenticated users to complete e-government or e-commerce transactions.”
The CEO of Margins elucidated that while mobile devices offer e-ID solutions that provide convenience, security, and efficiency, they may not suffice in all situations. This is where the Ghana Card proves invaluable, as it takes into account specific requirements such as technological capabilities, legal mandates, and the trust elements associated with particular scenarios.
In November 2021, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia initially disclosed that the Ghana Card had been prepared to serve as a travel document and would ultimately receive certification from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for such a purpose. Initially met with skepticism, his assertion was eventually validated after weeks of public discourse. The ICAO, responsible for certifying documents for international travel, officially certified the Ghana Card as meeting the requisite standards in a ceremony held at the ICAO’s headquarters.
With ICAO certification in place, holders of the Ghana Card can now utilize the card as an alternative to traditional passports for travel to Ghana from any international airport worldwide. Several Ghanaians have already availed themselves of this option, using the Ghana Card to travel both from abroad to Ghana and within West African countries where entry visas are not mandatory.
For Ghanaians traveling from Ghana to countries beyond West Africa and wishing to use the Ghana Card in lieu of their conventional passports, the Ghanaian government will need to establish bilateral agreements with these nations for the issuance of electronic visas, replacing the need for visas to be affixed to standard passports.
Significance of the Ghana Card
The Ghana Card is now a necessary card for every citizen to have, according to the CEO of Margins, because Ghanaians may now access their personal data with the card.
“Agencies and organizations only have access to the information they are authorized to access by law for the execution of their duties.”
“Registration from birth means no more falsification of age, clean voters register and accurate population census among other things. No more football age, ghost names on government payroll and fake names on voters’ register.”
The CEO expressed optimism that the Ghana Card, which serves as the foundation of Ghana’s drive toward digitalization, has the ability to make Ghana into a technologically advanced country and the most technologically advanced economy in the world.
Presenting the Ghana Card is currently required in order for any Ghanaian to obtain a passport, driver’s license, insurance policy, and other services including land registration, sim card registration, tax payment, SSNIT, banking, land registration, pension, and others.
Authenticity of Ghana Card
Since it is impossible to have duplicate biometric information, the Ghana Card has been referred to as a true source of unique identification and truth.
“This is the foundation for securely verifying people remotely and physically in real-time,” he said.
“There is no way one person can have two genuine Ghana Cards and there is no way anyone can beat the verification system with a fake Ghana Card unless that person uses the card at places where verification is not required.”
As of August of this year, more than 17.46 million Ghanaians had already enrolled for the Ghana Card.
In the 2022 Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana Customer Satisfaction Index, only five banks achieved a score exceeding the 98% threshold.
This marks a notable improvement compared to the 2021 edition, where just two banks managed to meet the threshold.
The survey, conducted by the Chartered Institute of Marketing in Ghana, revealed that Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) claimed the top spot, with Stanbic Bank and Republic Bank following closely with scores of 99.7% and 99.5%, respectively. ABSA Bank and First Atlantic Bank secured the next positions with scores of 97.5% and 96.2%, respectively.
On the other hand, CBG Bank, Zenith Bank, GCB Bank Plc, Bank of Africa, and SG Bank received the lowest scores in the survey.
Lead Researcher and Chief Executive of Consumer Insights Consults Limited, Dr. Ireneus Gundona, stressed the significance of elevating customer service to fortify the financial sector. He conveyed, “While banks have performed commendably, as indicated in this report, there is a need for continued efforts to address the ongoing challenges within the sector.”
The 23 universal banks were urged to subscribe to this report by Dr. Daniel Kasser-Tee, president of CIMG, as the findings will be very helpful in guiding their decisions and actions regarding the three key study variables of Service Quality, Customer Satisfaction, and Customer Loyalty, and their individual and combined effects on bank performance.
He again advised consumers of the report, particularly the banks, to learn how to put the results to be announced tonight to good and prudent use, adding “they should first look beyond their positions on the various tables to identify how they fared, for each of the 5 dimensions of service quality, overall customer satisfaction and either dimension of customer loyalty”.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Association of Banks, John Awuah, urged its members to be heavy on improving customer service. “We have seen the report and this will help us in shaping customer service going forward. We will look at the good and improve on it as well as correcting the bad, he opined.
A statement from UMB on the achievement noted, “UMB is very proud about this achievement which underscores our 50-year heritage and pedigree in this market. We have prioritized Customer Service and this objective feedback from our customers is gratifying. This validates our strategy of “Knowing2Serve”, Digital 1st and Transparency as our pillars to drive customer centricity. We dedicate our leadership in service to our customers. They are the reason we are, and we commit to continue to serve mother Ghana with S.P.E.E.D., as we have done since 1972. We must also commend the CIMG and GAB for the world-class effort they have put into providing an empirical basis for measuring service in the industry.”
Ghana’s financial services and banking sectors are widely regarded as among the most advanced in Africa, overseen by the regulatory authority, the Bank of Ghana. The collective customer satisfaction rating for remote banking services stands at 88%, with an overall customer loyalty rating of 81%.
Customer service, according to salesforce.com, encompasses the support provided by a company to its customers—both before and after they make a purchase and utilize the products or services—aimed at ensuring a seamless and enjoyable interaction with the brand.
The significance of customer service has grown to the extent that it is now recognized as a strategic function for organizations spanning various industries. In the realm of contemporary research, education, and practice, the banking industry has placed significant emphasis on customer service, recognizing it as the pivotal factor for customer acquisition and retention within the sector.
The Bank of Ghana’s Interbank forex rates today, September 25, 2023, indicate that the Ghana Cedi is trading against the dollar with a buying price of 11.0690 and a selling price of 11.0800.
Meanwhile, at a forex bureau in Accra, the dollar is being bought at a rate of 11.40 and sold at a rate of 11.60.
Against the Pound Sterling, the Cedi has a buying price of 13.5628 and a selling price of 13.5786.
Similarly, at an Accra-based forex bureau, the pound sterling is being bought at a rate of 14.30 and sold at a rate of 14.70.
The Euro is trading with a buying price of 11.7937 and a selling price of 11.8064, while at a forex bureau in Accra, the Euro is bought at a rate of 12.00 and sold at a rate of 12.50.
The South African Rand is listed with a buying price of 0.5899 and a selling price of 0.5906, but in Accra’s forex bureau, it is bought at a rate of 0.35 and sold at a rate of 0.95.
As for the Nigerian Naira, it has a buying price of 69.5291 and a selling price of 69.6194, whereas, at a forex bureau in Accra, it is bought at a rate of 10.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 15.00.
Regarding the CFA, it trades with a buying price of 55.1577 and a selling price of 55.2078, while at a forex bureau in Accra, the CFA is bought at a rate of 16.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 20.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi.
Note that these rates may be different at a forex bureau near you. Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.
Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.
President Akufo-Addo has issued an invitation to Africans living in the diaspora, urging them to redirect their investment portfolios towards the continent.
He emphasized that with the establishment of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the stage is now set for the continent to attract their investments, facilitating its industrial development and transformation.
During his address at the inaugural Global Africa Forum (GAF), which was jointly organized by the Africa Prosperity Network (APN) and the Africa-America Institute (AAI) on Thursday, September 21, 2023, on the sidelines of the 78th UN General Assembly in New York City, the theme of the event underscored this pivotal message, “Mobilising Global Africa Investment to Boost Intra-African Trade,” President Akufo-Addo said it is time for Africans to spend their monies on the continent to make her the wealthy place it ought to be.
“Like the vision of our forebears, the AfCFTA sets the stage for Africa’s industrialization and transformation. What is required now is for our respective governments and businesses to show bold leadership. We need coherent and complimentary strategic actions by governments and businesses.
“The right mix of policies and strategies for exports, value addition to raw commodities and a greater sense of purpose to ensure a robust intra-Africa trade, to drive agricultural growth, economic diversification and the much-needed industrialization of the continent” President Akufo-Addo said.
“As the saying goes, nothing succeeds as much as success. If we work at it, if we stop being beggars and spend Africa’s money inside the continent, Africa would not have to ask for respect from anyone, we will get the respect we deserve.
“Twenty years ago, thirty years ago, China was not where it is today. China does not ask anyone for respect today, she does not need to. Let us make our continent the joyful and prosperous place it should be and the respect will follow” Akufo-Addo added.
Concrete areas of investment
Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat, addressed the gathering by outlining the four major areas of interest identified by AfCFTA for potential investors to explore on the continent.
These areas encompass the manufacturing sector, the pharmaceutical industry, the agriculture sector, and the newly established AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, which has a value of one billion dollars and aims to support investments in productive sectors.
“The fund is not intended for budget support. It is intended for productive sector investments. What we envisage is that you as the diaspora with global capital, will see the adjustment fund as a vehicle for channeling your investment and to see returns on your investments,” Wamkele Mene said.
“These are the four areas that we have identified which are concrete, which we believe will be long lasting and impactful and will create job opportunities in Africa so that millions of young Africans stop being buried deep in the Mediterranean. We can create jobs for them at home on the African continent and that is why I think this dialogue is so very important” he added.
In attendance
In addition to President Akufo-Addo, the forum was graced by the presence of several other dignitaries, including Professor Benedict Oramah, who serves as the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, and H.E. Albert Muchanga, the AUC Commissioner for Trade and Industry.
The event also saw the participation of esteemed individuals such as Dr. Amany Asfour, who holds the position of President of the Africa Business Council, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Secretary-General UNDP-RBA, Derrick Johnson, the President of NCAAP, Mr. Julius Mwale, the President and CEO of SBA Technologies Inc, along with numerous other prominent leaders in the Global Africa business community.
A member of the Board of Overseers at Harvard University, Sangu Delle, has refuted the claim that a conference at the prestigious American Ivy League institution costs as much as US$30,000.
His response was prompted by a 2020 report from the Auditor-General regarding GETFund scholarships.
According to this report, a sitting Member of Parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo, had received a scholarship valued at US$30,000, supposedly for attendance at a Harvard conference.
At the time, Sarah Adwoa Safo held the position of Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament and was among several politicians, including Energy and Employment and Labour Relations ministers, who benefited from these scholarships. However, the official report specified that the total cost of Sarah Adwoa Safo’s conference at Harvard was US$29,804, which covered both tuition and living allowances.
“I’m on the Board of Overseers at Harvard University and I can tell you for a FACT that there’s no conference at Harvard that costs $30,000 for attendees. “Hon” Adwoa Safo & the others need to be in jail for such reckless abuse of public funds,” he tweeted over the weekend.
Delle was one of the many diasporans who participated in the online #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest against the government.
He made a number of promises, including that he would cover the expense of some individuals’ medical care who had been subjected to police brutality after being wrongfully detained on September 21, the first day of the three-day protest.
I’m on the Board of Overseers at Harvard University and I can tell you for a FACT that there’s no conference at Harvard that costs $30,000 for attendees. “Hon” Adwoa Safo & the others need to be in jail for such reckless abuse of public funds. #OCCUPYJULORBIHOUSE@LarryMadowohttps://t.co/NoWyoPUccw
Amid the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protests, a group of online activists took on the task of bolstering the call for action and the demands of the protesters by sharing government-backed data.
This data encompassed economic indicators, employment statistics, government intervention programs, and the expenditures of the executive branch of the government.
These activists used the official hashtag #OccupyJulorbiHouse to disseminate this information through retweets and shares.
However, one particular dataset triggered a significant and widespread reaction. This dataset originated from a 2020 list compiled by the scholarship secretariat.
The source of outrage was the inclusion of current Members of Parliament (MPs) and individuals with political affiliations who had received substantial sums of money through these scholarships.
Many individuals, seemingly encountering the GETFund Scholarships report by the Auditor-General for the first time, expressed vehement criticism toward the political elite for seemingly profiting from the hardships of the populace.
Among the MPs who faced renewed scrutiny were Sarah Adwoa Safo, the representative for Dome Kwabenya, who received $30,000 for attending a Harvard conference.
Similarly, Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh and Employment and Labour Relations Minister Ignatius Baffour-Awuah were also found to have received funds for various programs.
The reactions to this revelation were as follows:
“Whenever I see this list and notice certain names, I am filled with irrepressible rage. The niece of the Minister of Finance, who we were told was as rich as Mansa Musa, was given a scholarship designed for brilliant and needy Ghanaians,” an X user posted.
The auditor general released a list of politicians, MPs, heads of institutions and their associates who benefited from GETFund. This is public information. The original intent was to provided scholarships to brilliant but needy students. Look at this list#OccupyJulorbiHousehttps://t.co/AHc6nRKAcApic.twitter.com/59h529eAMn
The auditor general released a list of politicians, MPs, heads of institutions and their associates who benefited from GETFund. This is public information. The original intent was to provided scholarships to brilliant but needy students. Look at this list#OccupyJulorbiHousehttps://t.co/AHc6nRKAcApic.twitter.com/59h529eAMn
In the aftermath of a coup, President Emmanuel Macron has said that France will revoke its ambassador and halt all military cooperation with Niger.
“France has decided to withdraw its ambassador. In the next hours our ambassador and several diplomats will return to France,” Mr Macron said.
He added that military co-operation was “over” and French troops would leave in “the months to come”.
The military coup that took over Niger in July applauded the decision.
“This Sunday we celebrate a new step towards the sovereignty of Niger,” the junta said, in a statement quoted by AFP news agency.
After months of tension and protests against the French presence in Niger, particularly in the capital city of Niamey, Paris has made a significant decision. This decision has dealt a severe blow to France’s efforts against Islamist militants in the broader Sahel region and its influence in the area. President Macron, however, emphasized that France would not allow itself to be controlled by the coup leaders, stating this during interviews with France’s TF1 and France 2 television stations.
President Macron continued to recognize Mohamed Bazoum, the ousted President of Niger, who is currently being held captive by the coup leaders, as the legitimate authority of the country. He described Bazoum as a “hostage” of the situation and attributed the coup to his courageous reform efforts and a complex web of ethnic rivalries and political cowardice.
Niger is one of several former French colonies in West Africa where military takeovers have occurred recently, following similar incidents in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Chad. Gabon also experienced a coup in August.
Anti-French sentiment has been on the rise in the region, with local politicians accusing France of pursuing neocolonialist policies, a charge that France has consistently denied. There have also been concerns about the increasing influence of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group in the Sahel, which is accused of human rights abuses and has been cooperating with some of the newly established military regimes.
The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), with France’s support, has threatened military intervention in Niger to reinstate President Bazoum, but as of now, no action has been taken.
In response to the coup, Niger’s military leaders demanded the departure of French ambassador Sylvain Itte, but France refused to comply or recognize the legitimacy of the military regime, even after a 48-hour ultimatum issued in August.
President Macron’s statement comes shortly after the coup leaders in Niger banned “French aircraft” from flying over the country. Niger’s airspace, as noted by the regional air safety organization ASECNA, is now open to all national and international commercial flights except for French aircraft or those chartered by France, including those operated by Air France. Military, operational, and special flights will also require prior authorization to access the airspace. Air France confirmed that it is currently avoiding Niger’s airspace.
The Kenyan High Court has ruled that the forced sterilization of a woman living with HIV is a violation of her human rights, marking the first case of its kind.
In December 2022, after eight years of litigation, Hon. Justice Mrima delivered a historic judgment, declaring that the tubal ligation of a woman living with HIV without her consent violated her rights to dignity, freedom from discrimination, right to health, and her right to found a family.
The case was initiated in Nairobi in 2014 by a Kenyan woman living with HIV, with support from KELIN (The Kenyan Legal and Ethical Issues Network on HIV AIDS), one of the petitioners in the case.
The plaintiff contested the actions of a healthcare provider at a private medical facility who sterilized her without her knowledge or consent. She expressed her satisfaction with the verdict, saying, “This win is not just for me but for each woman living with HIV who has been subjected to forced sterilization. I am happy that the violations against us have been acknowledged and hope my story will be a tool for the protection of the right to health for other women living with HIV.”
The judge ordered the first and second respondents, Marura Maternity and Nursing Home, and the County Government of Nairobi, to pay the petitioner 3,000,000 Kenyan shillings as damages.
Allan Maleche, Executive Director of KELIN, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, saying, “We welcome the court’s decision and although it took a long time, we are happy that the court found the client’s rights had been violated, and particularly the finding of discrimination on the basis of sex and HIV status.”
The court found that the healthcare provider’s conduct violated the right to the highest attainable standard of health and the right to freedom from discrimination.
It also ruled that healthcare providers have a duty to inform patients about medical procedures, including possible outcomes.
Justice Mrima noted that some women, due to their HIV status, may be pressured into making reproductive health decisions due to stigma and fear, which contributed to the forced sterilization of the plaintiff.
KELIN advocates for health-related human rights and recognizes the interconnectedness of HIV/AIDS, sexual and reproductive health, and rights.
The organization advocates for laws and policies that protect and fulfill sexual and reproductive rights, engages in strategic litigation, strengthens the capacities of community-based organizations, and provides legal support for medical providers and women affected by penal provisions on abortion.
Gunmen have abducted an unspecified number of female students from a Nigerian university in north-west Zamfara state.
The students, from the Federal University Gusau, were taken from three hostels in the Sabon Gida community during the early hours of Friday.
Local reporters informed the BBC that the gunmen opened fire indiscriminately before attacking the students’ hostels. Both the police and university authorities have not provided any comments on the situation.
In 2021, bandits kidnapped over 300 schoolgirls in Zamfara state, but they were eventually released after the government negotiated with the kidnappers.
Kidnapping has become increasingly prevalent in north-west Nigeria, with armed gangs targeting individuals in villages, on highways, and in farmlands for ransom.
Sudan’s de facto leader has warned the UN that the country’s war could spill over into neighboring African nations.
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan also called on the international community to designate his opponents, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), as a terrorist group.
Meanwhile, RSF leader Hamdan Dagalo expressed readiness for a ceasefire. Since April, Sudan has been in a civil war that has claimed thousands of lives.
In 2021, the two generals staged a coup, leading to a recent power struggle between them and armed conflicts among their followers.
Gen Burhan expressed openness to peace talks, while Gen Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, conveyed his willingness to engage in dialogue in a rare video message to the UN.
Sudan’s civil war erupted in April when RSF members were deployed around the country, seen as a threat by the army led by Gen Burhan, and the conflict has since resulted in thousands of casualties and displaced millions.
Following a coup in 2021, Gen. Burhan assumed the role of de facto ruler of Sudan. Since then, he has been traveling the globe in an effort to win over the support of other nations.
In his remarks before the UN, he also made mention of the RSF’s connections to Wagner, an organization of Russian mercenaries that is active throughout Africa in places including the Central African Republic, Sudan, Libya, Mozambique, and Mali.
“The danger of this war is now a threat to regional and international peace and security as those rebels have sought the support of outlaws and terrorist groups from different countries in the region and the world,” he said.
Gen Burhan also argued the RSF should be considered a terrorist group as they had “supported killing, burning, raping, forced displacement, looting, stealing, torture, trafficking of arms and drugs, bringing mercenaries or recruiting children”.
He emphasized the need for accountability and punishment for those crimes. However, Gen Burhan has faced criticism for military actions throughout the conflict.
UN envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes, who resigned in mid-September, was highly critical of both generals, accusing them of leading the country into a war.
Perthes held the RSF responsible for sexual violence, looting, and killings in areas it controls and condemned the Sudanese armed forces for indiscriminate aerial bombings.
RSF fighters are situated in densely populated urban areas, and the Sudanese military has targeted these areas, seen as legitimate targets. The US has already imposed sanctions on RSF leaders, including Gen Dagalo.
Still, the West has also criticized Gen Burhan for his role in displacing Sudan’s leading party in a 2021 coup.
Eighty-seven primary school students in South Africa have been released from the hospital one day after consuming cannabis-laced biscuits, colloquially known as “space cookies.”
According to provincial education authorities, three students from Pulamadibogo Primary School in Soshanguve, located northwest of the capital, Pretoria, are still under medical care.
All of the affected students had reported nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting after consuming the snacks purchased from a street vendor near the school.
The potential legal consequences for the vendor remain unclear at this time.
A Kenyan female senator who identifies as a whistleblower has been suspended for a period of six months by a parliamentary committee.
Gloria Orwoba was summoned before the Powers and Privileges Committee due to statements she made in Senate WhatsApp groups and during a press briefing.
In these statements, she alleged the existence of a culture in parliament characterized by favoritism, ethnic discrimination, bullying, and sexual harassment. She also suggested that behind-the-scenes, the only way to achieve one’s goals was by offering kickbacks or sexual favors, which she refused to do.
Her messages and complaints to colleagues often included the hashtag #NoSexForWork.
However, the committee concluded that her accusations lacked substantiation, and they mandated that, following her suspension, she would need to issue an apology for her comments before being permitted to resume her duties.
In response to her suspension, Ms. Orwoba, who is currently on a work trip attending the Clinton Global Initiative in New York, expressed her discontent.
She argued that the committee had issued its report despite her having filed a legal case on the matter. She believed that she would not receive a fair hearing and alleged that the committee had rushed to publish its report due to her recent request for the disclosure of senators’ and staff members’ travel expenses from October 2022 to September 2023.
Ms Orwoba said her request had brought about “panic and anxiety in high offices in parliament”.
“Swiftly after this request, the motion to suspend me, which was earlier adjourned was reintroduced while I was away,” she alleged.
This isn’t the first instance of the 37-year-old politician, who is also an advocate for ending period-related stigma, encountering issues with her fellow parliamentarians.
Back in February, she was requested to exit parliament due to her non-compliance with the house’s dress code, owing to an apparent period blood stain on her white trouser suit. During that incident, she brushed off criticism from those who accused her of being disrespectful, asserting that accidents can occur.
“Since I am always advocating against period shame, I thought I should go ahead and walk the talk.”
A lock of hair from a deceased Ethiopian prince, who passed away more than 140 years ago, has been presented in the UK to delegates from his native country.
In 1868, Prince Alemayehu was taken by British soldiers following their invasion of his father, Emperor Tewodros II’s fortress, after the emperor’s death by suicide.
The crown prince, who had an unhappy upbringing in Britain, died at the age of 18 in 1879. He was laid to rest at Windsor Castle, near London, and recent appeals to repatriate his remains have been denied.
Fasil Minas, one of the prince’s descendants, expressed optimism that the return of the prince’s hair might open the door for his body to be returned to Ethiopia.
UK rejects calls to return Ethiopian prince’s body
At a London ceremony on Thursday evening, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the UK, Teferi Melesse, officially received the lock of hair along with several other artifacts that had been looted from Emperor Tewodros’s Maqdala fortress.
Ambassador Melesse expressed his appreciation for their return, stating that they would be returned to their rightful place where they can serve as sources of inspiration and education for future generations. He also indicated that Ethiopia would continue to advocate for the return of more items taken from the fortress.
Prince Alemayehu was taken to London at the age of seven, where his orphan status elicited Queen Victoria’s sympathy.
She agreed to provide financial support and placed him under the guardianship of Captain Tristram Charles Sawyer Speedy, the man who had accompanied the prince from Ethiopia.
The Scheherazade Foundation, which facilitated the return of the lock of hair, mentioned that it had originally been in Captain Speedy’s possession. Leonie Turner, a descendant of Speedy, discovered the artifact among her family’s heirlooms and decided to return it.
Alula Pankhurst, a member of Ethiopia’s Heritages Restitution National Committee, welcomed the return of the hair but emphasized that this should be just the beginning.
He stated that the restitution of Ethiopian artifacts looted during the 1868 British expedition to Magdala is crucial for restorative justice and for fostering better relations and collaborations between British and Ethiopian institutions.
Despite calls for the return of the prince’s body, Buckingham Palace rejected the request, citing concerns that exhuming his remains would disturb the remains of others buried in the catacombs of St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.
An Ethiopian-born contractor, Abraham Teklu Lemma, who had worked for the State and Justice departments in the United States, has been apprehended and charged with transmitting classified information to Ethiopia.
The Justice Department alleges that Abraham Teklu Lemma, aged 50, had been sharing classified information with an individual linked to Ethiopia’s intelligence service since August of the previous year.
While the department did not explicitly mention the African nation he was accused of spying for, it has been reported by various US media outlets, including the New York Times, as Ethiopia.
Lemma is facing three charges, including collecting or conveying defense information to support a foreign government, unauthorized possession of national defense information, and willfully retaining it.
A naturalized US citizen of Ethiopian descent residing in Silver Spring, Maryland, Lemma worked as an IT administrator for the Department of State and as a management analyst for the Department of Justice.
He had been granted top-secret security clearance and access to classified US systems.
If convicted of espionage, he could potentially face the death penalty.
A teacher in Morocco shared with the BBC that he is finding it challenging to provide support to traumatized students in the aftermath of the recent devastating earthquake, as he is grappling with his own recovery.
Abdelali Mahfodi, speaking from the town of Amizmiz, spoke to Newsday two weeks after the most powerful earthquake to strike the North African nation in over six decades.
Amizmiz has witnessed extensive destruction, with significant portions reduced to rubble. Mr. Mahfodi conveyed to the Newsday radio show that many residents in the town are currently unable to access basic necessities like showers and clean clothes.
The English teacher said his pupils need “psychological support”, but “I haven’t changed clothes in four days, how do you expect someone in this situation to strive in order to get students back on the rails?”
The 6.8-magnitude earthquake that occurred on September 8 resulted in the tragic loss of more than 2,900 lives in Morocco.
Morocco’s authorities have allocated 120 billion dirhams ($11.6 billion; £9.4 billion) for the reconstruction of affected regions and have pledged financial assistance to the victims.
However, a specific timeline for the implementation of these plans has not been provided. Morocco has been selective in accepting foreign aid and has agreed to receive assistance from only four countries: Qatar, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, and the UK.
For the complete account from Mr. Mahfodi, you can listen to the BBC’s Newsday radio show.
Poultry farmers and retailers in South Africa are cautioning residents to prepare for increased prices for eggs and chicken due to the ongoing deaths of millions of chickens caused by a combination of power outages and avian flu.
The outbreak of avian flu in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province was initially reported in April, followed by the more lethal H7N6 strain of the flu in May.
Since then, the avian flu has extended its reach to four additional provinces, compelling poultry farmers to carry out mass culling of their chickens.
“The bird flu has already caused short supplies of table eggs into the market, and it is expected that the supply of poultry meat into the value chain could be affected negatively in the coming months,” Astral Foods, one of South Africa’s biggest chicken producers said on Thursday.
The company reported a decrease in its financial performance, attributing it to losses linked to bird flu and rising operational expenses resulting from power shortages.
The company disclosed that it incurs monthly expenses of 45 million rand ($2.4 million; £1.9 million) to operate diesel generators.
Abongile Balarane, the leader of the South African Poultry Association, stated to the Daily Maverick earlier this month that the nation had suffered the loss of over four million chickens, equivalent to 15% of the country’s total production.
The transitional parliament of Burkina Faso has passed a unanimous resolution to deploy troops to Niger, its neighboring country, following the military coup on July 26.
According to Defense Minister Colonel Major Kassoum Coulibaly, the troops will be stationed in Niger for an initial period of three months, with the possibility of renewal. Their mission will involve combatting terrorism and assisting in the stabilization of Sahel states, as reported by state TV.
On August 30, Burkina Faso’s interim cabinet granted approval for the deployment of troops to Niger in anticipation of an impending military intervention by the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas).
Both Burkina Faso and Mali have expressed support for Niger’s military junta, which is facing pressure from Ecowas to reinstate the democratically elected government or face additional sanctions and the possibility of regional military intervention.
Additionally, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali have entered into an agreement to establish a joint body tasked with coordinating efforts to address “common challenges.” These challenges encompass countering a jihadist insurgency, addressing general insecurity, and combating underdevelopment in the region.
The ousted President of Niger has requested his release through an appeal to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) court, according to his lawyer on Wednesday.
Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown by his presidential guard on July 26, has been held under house arrest along with his wife and child.
His Senegalese lawyer, Seydou Diagne, disclosed that he filed a legal complaint with the West African bloc’s court in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, on September 18.
The lawsuit invokes his “arbitrary arrest” and “violation of freedom of movement”, Diagne said.
“We request… in view of the violation of political rights, that the State of Niger be ordered to immediately restore constitutional order by handing over power to President Bazoum, who must continue to exercise it until the end of his mandate.”
ECOWAS, which imposed sanctions on Niger, has issued a warning that it may resort to military intervention in Niger if diplomatic efforts to reinstate Bazoum prove unsuccessful.
Niger’s coup occurred in a region plagued by violence from armed groups, following similar upheavals in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso. In September, the three nations formed the Alliance of Sahel States, signing a mutual defense pact to support each other against potential threats of armed rebellion or external aggression.
If the court rules in favor of Bazoum, Diagne stressed that Niger is legally obligated to implement the decision.
The leaders of Niger’s coup have expressed their intention to prosecute Bazoum, who was democratically elected, for “high treason and undermining internal and external security.”
On Wednesday, the European Union (EU) reiterated its support for ECOWAS’s stance and renewed its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Bazoum and his family.
EU foreign affairs spokesperson Nabila Massrali emphasized the EU’s position that it does not recognize authorities arising from the coup and affirmed Bazoum as the sole legitimate president of Niger.
These statements came after Niger’s military-appointed Prime Minister, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, summoned the EU ambassador to Niamey, Salvador Pinto da Franca.
Leader of Guinea’s junta, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, has argued that the Western model of democracy is not suitable for Africa while defending the use of military intervention.
During his address to the UN General Assembly in New York, he asserted that the continent is grappling with a “model of governance that has been imposed on us” and is facing challenges in adapting to its unique circumstances.
“It is time to stop lecturing us and stop treating us with condescension like children,” he added.
Colonel Doumbouya seized power in a coup in 2021, removing President Alpha Condé from office. During his address to the UN assembly, he justified his actions by stating that they were necessary “to rescue our nation from utter chaos.”
When news of the coup emerged, the capital city of Conakry witnessed jubilant crowds, relieved by the removal of President Condé.
However, following the military takeover, the country faced suspension from the regional organization, Ecowas, as regional leaders demanded a return to civilian governance.
Last year, Colonel Doumbouya did provide a timetable for a transition to an elected government following discussions with Ecowas. However, there has been limited progress in organizing the anticipated vote, according to Reuters.
Guinea is among several nations in Western and Central Africa that have experienced coups in recent years, including Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Gabon.
These coups have garnered strong condemnation from Ecowas, the African Union, and the United Nations.
In order to strengthen Ghana’s energy security, the Chief Executive of the Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber, David Ampofo, has emphasized the crucial need of improving domestic gas utilisation and developing the country’s gas infrastructure.
He pointed out that despite natural gas’ crucial role in the nation’s energy system, its full potential has yet to be realized.
He emphasized that one of the major obstacles is the urgent requirement for a clear gas pricing mechanism. This degree of clarity is thought to be crucial for directing investments, facilitating effective planning, and supporting coordinated implementation within the sector.
“There is no business to be done if there is no agreed price for goods and services. Domestic gas supplies need harnessing and some big decisions need to be made that enable the required investment to take place,” he stated.
He pledged Upstream Petroleum Chamber’s commitment to facilitating a favorable business environment for both local and international investors venturing into the oil and gas sector.
The industry holds immense untapped potential, both onshore and offshore. Realizing its full potential begins with exploration.
In this context, he emphasized the increasing importance of harnessing natural gas, alongside oil, to ensure energy self-sufficiency, acknowledging that work remains to be done in this regard.
Additionally, Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh acknowledged the influence of the global transition towards cleaner energy in the oil and gas sector.
“Businesses operate within a policy framework that determines to a large extent how they thrive. The more detailed, predictable and consistent government policy is, the better for industry. Oil and gas companies are keen to work with government to address constraints facing the industry,” he added.
He pledged Upstream Petroleum Chamber’s commitment to facilitating a favorable business environment for both local and international investors venturing into the oil and gas sector.
The industry holds immense untapped potential, both onshore and offshore. Realizing its full potential begins with exploration.
In this context, he emphasized the increasing importance of harnessing natural gas, alongside oil, to ensure energy self-sufficiency, acknowledging that work remains to be done in this regard.
Additionally, Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh acknowledged the influence of the global transition towards cleaner energy in the oil and gas sector.
He said: “The energy transition is increasingly influencing investments and strategies are diverging. Funding for petroleum projects has become scarce, whereas that for clean energy is abundant.”
As a result of these limitations, he observed that numerous International Oil Companies (IOCs) and international financial institutions, which were traditionally pivotal in supporting exploration and production activities in Africa, have been compelled to shift their business priorities towards cleaner energy projects due to security concerns.
In light of these challenges, including technical capacity constraints affecting the oil and gas sector, he emphasized the necessity of turning to indigenous companies, including local financial institutions, to advance hydrocarbon resource development.
Nevertheless, he lamented that the majority of these indigenous companies lack the comprehensive capabilities required for oil and gas exploration and production, and even the few that possess such capabilities tend to be risk-averse.
Among other things, the minister also observed that if the demand and support from Western countries (for hydrocarbon products) is not forthcoming: “It might be difficult if not impossible for us to continue exploring and producing our hydrocarbon resources”.
This issue was attributed to the insufficient market and infrastructure available across the continent for the processing, storage, transportation, and transformation of hydrocarbons.
However, he emphasized that progress could be achieved by enhancing market and infrastructure development, which would enable support and trade among African nations.
Samuel Atta Akyea, Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Mines and Energy, also underscored the economic potential of the oil and gas industry during the event. While acknowledging the significance of ongoing discoveries, including those in the Voltaian Basin, he expressed frustration with the pace of resource development and urged private-sector partnerships to expedite the process.
This year’s Ghana Oil and Gas Conference, an annual gathering of industry stakeholders to address emerging challenges, revolved around the theme ‘Ghana’s Oil and Gas Industry: Prospects and Opportunities.’
Ghanaian innovator from Asesewa in the Eastern Region, Kwaku Sylvester, is making headlines with his incredible contribution when he unveiled his wrangler prototype.
In order to reveal his amazing Buffalo innovation and to display his remarkable technical abilities, he traveled to Accra.
“I have come to Accra to showcase a car I have manufactured. I have named it Buffalo. I made it purposely for farmers, beach operators and also for touring. This car is a very strong car. I designed it just like an animal,” he said.
Sylvester’s foray into innovation and engineering goes beyond his creation of the automobile. He has a desire to impart his knowledge and abilities to young people who are interested in science and engineering.
In order for him to mentor and direct others in this profession, he underlined the necessity for support and investment from Ghana’s leaders.
“I am not only into cars, but I also manufacture a whole lot of machinery and I want to show it to leaders in this country to come in and assist me so I can teach others, especially the youth who want to learn.
“So, I am calling for investors. This is what all my strength can achieve. I don’t have any plants; I just have my welding machine,” he stated.
Sylvester, who claims to be a welder by trade, claimed that the ‘Buffalo’ wrangler was completely hand-built while talking about its creation.
He mentioned that in order to improve some areas of the vehicle’s performance, he enlisted the help of a mechanic, acknowledging the need of technical knowledge and teamwork.
“I built everything from scratch, from the design, fixed the body the engine. I am not a mechanic but after fixing the body, I called a mechanic to come and assist me. After, I decided to try it on the road. In doing so, I realized that I had to pay attention to the alignment which costs a lot of money.
“I have invested the little savings I have into manufacturing this car. So, I am calling on the leaders in this country…with the little push it will help us all of us,” he added.
The final resting place of the over 800,000 individuals who tragically lost their lives in the 1994 Rwanda genocide has been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list, marking a significant development as the United Nations cultural body lifts its moratorium on considering memorial sites associated with human suffering.
UNESCO officially confirmed the inclusion of the sites at Nyamata, Murambi, Gisozi, and Bisesero in Rwanda, which serve as poignant commemorations of the mass killings, primarily of Tutsi victims, during the period of April to July 1994. The genocide also claimed the lives of moderate Hutus who were subjected to brutal violence, including shootings, beatings, and machete attacks, at the hands of Hutu rebels.
This recognition underscores the importance of preserving and acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of these sites, ensuring that the memory of the tragic events that unfolded during the genocide is perpetuated for future generations.
“This historic decision will help safeguard memory, counter denial, and strengthen genocide prevention efforts globally. #NeverAgain,” Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“This will make the genocide that was committed in Rwanda against the Tutsi more known across the world,” he told AFP news agency in Kigali.
The list of new additions also encompassed the World War I cemeteries situated in Belgium and France, in addition to a former torture facility in Argentina.
Up until now, the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in Poland and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Japan were the sole memorial sites to have earned a place on the prestigious World Heritage list maintained by the United Nations’ cultural agency.
During a gathering of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a consensus among UNESCO member states was reached to include the Rwanda genocide and World War I sites in the list, following the addition of the Argentina torture memorial on the previous day.
Back in 2018, during a UNESCO meeting, the agency refrained from adding memorial sites to the list, pondering whether the heritage list was an appropriate tool for recognizing sites associated with atrocities and conflicts.
However, early in 2023, member states came to an agreement that these sites hold significant potential in contributing to peacebuilding, which aligns with UNESCO’s primary mission. Consequently, the committee resolved to consider the nominations of these three sites.
Ghanaians were incensed by the rate of port fee increases for imports, particularly vehicles, last year.
Car dealers’ complaints about the over 20% increase in port fees in just one month contributed to the commotion’s escalation.
After a year, the situation has not changed, which has caused the cost of vehicles and other imports to rise in the nation.
Read the full story originally published on September 23, 2022
A social media post has left many users astounded after a car dealer revealed a significant increase in the final duty and taxes payable for an imported vehicle within the span of just one month.
The tax invoice details shared on social media showcased a staggering rise from GH¢49,000 to GH¢55,000, marking a notable GH¢6,000 difference from the initial amount.
The invoice listed approximately 11 levies imposed on a single vehicle, including the ECOWAS levy, Network Charge COVID Health, Network Charge VAT, Import NHIL, and Network Charge NHIL.
The Twitter user @BrodoSchemes, who posted the invoice and highlighted the rapid change, captioned it with, “From 49k to 55k real quick! A difference in just about a month.”
This post has garnered diverse reactions from Ghanaians on Twitter, with many expressing their dismay over the increase and suggesting that the system appears to be designed to place financial strain on citizens in their daily lives.
Another car dealer shared a similar experience on the same platform, stating that the duty cost for a 2015 Honda Civic was nearly GH¢33,000, and the container fee amounted to approximately GH¢3,400. Furthermore, factoring in agent fees, clearing charges, and towing expenses, one could expect to pay around GH¢40,000 in duty charges at the ports for the vehicle.
In reaction to the post, another tweep wrote, “For you to understand what this man is saying better, let me give you some small comparison…Duty for a 2016 Honda Civic in May 2021 was GH¢ 15,527.40.”
Some users have speculated that Ghanaians’ propensity for profiteering is to blame for the country’s high import taxes.
Some users have speculated that Ghanaians’ propensity for profiteering is to blame for the country’s high import taxes.
See some reactions gathered on twitter below:
2015 Honda Civic duty be almost 33k Container fee be 3400 Agent, clearing charges den tow come add den u dey look at almost 40k for port alone. This car used to sell for 55-65k recently !!! If I price car den some kiddies dey diss me den edey funny me. Ano get your time sef. pic.twitter.com/YV5BIBuUv7
For you to understand what this man is saying better, let me give you some small comparison… Duty for a 2016 Honda Civic in May 2021 was Ghc 15,527.40. So you barb why cars are mad expensive now? God “safe” us!! Medaaase! 🤝 pic.twitter.com/djLau6M5i6
My guys dema garage for djorwulu, if dem price the car 90k wey you get buyer, dem no dey care how much you go take give am. All they need is the 90k. Be like you people no know how to do business in this Accra….
In a heart-wrenching development, Noah Narh Dameh, who held the position of Deputy Station Coordinator at Radio Ada, has passed away at the age of 49.
This somber news was confirmed by a report from fourthestate.gh.com.
Mr. Dameh, who had been entangled in a legal dispute over allegations of disseminating false information concerning businessman Daniel McKorley, commonly known as McDan, breathed his last in the confines of his home.
The precise cause of Mr. Dameh’s passing remains undisclosed, but individuals close to his family disclosed that his health had been in a precarious state since his release from police custody in December 2022.
Noah Narh Dameh leaves behind three children and two grandchildren.
His significance extended beyond his role in the media, as he was a committed community advocate who utilized his position at Radio Ada to champion the cause of the coastal region, renowned for its commercial salt production.
Throughout his career, Mr. Dameh labored tirelessly to engage the community on issues pertaining to their civic rights and responsibilities.
He accomplished this by delivering news stories and valuable insights not only to the Dangme people but also to a wider audience.
In addition to his work within the radio studio, Mr. Dameh actively participated in various community initiatives.
He spearheaded numerous endeavors aimed at effecting positive change within the community.
However, Mr. Dameh’s health deteriorated significantly as a result of the events surrounding his relentless reporting on the contentious lease of the Songhor Lagoon to a single investor.
In his quest for justice, he shed light on grave human rights violations, including arbitrary arrests, detentions, prosecutions, and brutalities endured by some Ada residents in connection with the lease.
The turning point came when Mr. Dameh posted a photograph on his Facebook page, depicting an Ada resident handcuffed to a hospital bed while in police custody.
In his post, he alleged that the young man was being mistreated at the behest of Mr. McKorley, the Chief Executive Officer of Electrochem Ghana Limited, the company that had been granted a salt mining lease in Ada.
In response to these allegations, Electrochem Ghana Limited initiated a defamation lawsuit against Mr. Dameh.
This legal battle thrust Mr. Dameh into the national spotlight, where he continued to champion the cause of the marginalized and oppressed.
In December 2022, he was discharged by the Tema Magistrate Court, which cited a lack of jurisdiction over the case.
However, an unexpected twist occurred when he was re-arrested by the police and remanded for seven days.
Subsequently, he was granted police inquiry bail of GH₵ 60,000.00 and appeared in court with his lawyer.
On July 3, 2023, an unfortunate incident unfolded when his lawyer failed to appear in court.
The presiding judge accused Mr. Dameh of impersonation, even expressing difficulty in recognizing him due to his deteriorating health.
Eventually, the police investigator on the case identified him as the accused.
Regrettably, Mr. Dameh’s health continued to deteriorate, and he was unable to recover.
The Management of Zoomlion Ghana Limited finds it quite regrettable, the publications in the media on comments attributed to the Hon. James Klutse Avedzi, Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament (PAC) on Wednesday, 20th September 2023, cautioning Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) against renewing contracts with Zoomlion.
The Company finds it unfortunate that such a directive will be given regarding our fumigation contracts with MMDAs, whereas the two parties have not been brought together to discuss any contractual issues. It is crucial to highlight that Zoomlion Ghana Limited operates with the utmost integrity and professionalism, and we have consistently upheld our contractual obligations with the MMDAs.
The publication suggested that Parliament had sanctioned the non-renewal of our waste management contracts. The Company is, however, unaware of any such indication from the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization and Rural Development, or any of the other contracting parties, namely the MMDCEs. Moreover, Parliament is not party to the subsisting contract
Zoomlion on 8th June 2022 actively participated in a PAC hearing to address questions and provide comprehensive explanations with evidence regarding the issues raised in the Auditor General’s report. During this hearing, the company presented substantial evidence to demonstrate our commitment to fulfilling our contractual obligations to the MMDAs.
Following the PAC hearing, there has been no adverse report or further queries from the PAC suggesting any irregularities with Zoomlion’s performance. This, to us, indicates that the PAC was satisfied with the explanations and evidence we provided during the hearing. It is therefore surprising to us hearing such damaging reportage from the Chair of the PAC.
We firmly believe that it is in the best interest of and fairness to all parties involved to engage in open and constructive dialogue rather than resorting to actions and pronouncements that may tarnish the image of the company. Over the years, Zoomlion has consistently delivered world-class waste management services to various MMDAs, resulting in a significant reduction in sanitation-related health issues across the country.
We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of service delivery and compliance with all contractual obligations. We are open to continued collaboration and dialogue with the relevant authorities to address any concerns and ensure the continued provision of exceptional waste management services.
Zoomlion Ghana Limited continues to pursue its transformational agenda of establishing state-of-the-art waste recycling plants, waste water treatment plants and medical waste treatment plants among others across the sixteen regions of Ghana to modernize waste management in Ghana and will not be distracted by such publications.
Zoomlion is also set in digitizing payment for waste collection with the launch of its “change your borla style” E-payment system to make payment for waste collection in Ghana, a seamless and easy thing to do.
Zoomlion Ghana Limited remains a responsible corporate entity that works ethically with integrity to promote environmental sanitation across the country. We, therefore, find such publication a deliberate attempt to dent the hard-earned reputation of the company, both in Ghana and at the global level.
The Management of Zoomlion Ghana Limited wishes to reassure its stakeholders and the general public that it had done no wrong and calls on the media to be decorous in their reportage of such national reports against the company which has been at the forefront of driving sustainable waste management in Ghana and beyond.
The Interbank forex rates from the Bank of Ghana today, September 22, 2023, indicate that the Ghana Cedi is trading against the dollar at a buying price of 11.0690 and a selling price of 11.0800.
At a forex bureau in Accra, the dollar is being bought at a rate of 11.40 and sold at a rate of 11.65.
Against the Pound Sterling, the Cedi is trading at a buying price of 13.7399 and a selling price of 13.7548, while at a forex bureau in Accra, the pound sterling is being bought at a rate of 14.30 and sold at a rate of 14.80.
The Euro is trading at a buying price of 11.8816 and a selling price of 11.8924, with the Euro being bought at a rate of 12.00 and sold at a rate of 12.50 at a forex bureau in Accra.
The South African Rand is trading at a buying price of 0.5915 and a selling price of 0.5921, and at a forex bureau in Accra, it is being bought at a rate of 0.35 and sold at a rate of 0.95.
The Nigerian Naira is trading at a buying price of 69.8126 and a selling price of 69.9029, and at a forex bureau in Accra, the Nigerian Naira is being bought at a rate of 10.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 15.00.
Finally, for the CFA, it is trading at a buying price of 55.1577 and a selling price of 55.2078, while at a forex bureau in Accra, CFA is being bought at a rate of 16.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 20.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi.
These forex bureau rates are sourced from Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.
Note that these rates may be different at a forex bureau near you. Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.
Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.
Cocoa farmers in the Agona West Municipality of the Central Region have expressed their dissatisfaction with the cocoa season price for 2023–2024, as recently announced by the government. They argue that the price for a bag of cocoa for the season should have been GH¢2000 Ghana Cedis, as opposed to the GH¢1308 announced by President Akufo-Addo.
Initially, the farmers commended the government for the increase and acknowledged its positive aspect. However, they firmly believed that the increment could have been more substantial.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo declared a 63.6% upward adjustment of the farm gate price of cocoa beans, raising it from GH₵800 to GH₵1,308 per bag for the new cocoa season. He emphasized that this increment represents the highest in West Africa over the past 15 years.
The president made this significant announcement at Tepa in the Ashanti Region during the launch of the 2023–2024 cocoa season. The farmers in the Agona West Municipality reiterated their appreciation for the government’s efforts in increasing the cocoa price.
“However, we would have been happy if he announced that the newprice has moved to GHC 2,000. The price announced by the president could have been better than what was announced. We first appreciate the increment, but it is not enough. Like Oliver Twist, we are demanding more,” one of the farmers said.
Another said, “We will first appreciate the government for the new price. But we would have preferred that the increase get to GHC 2,000”.
“The new price announced is woefully inadequate. Some prefer to smuggle their cocoa to neighbouring countries just because the price compared to even the previous one is not up to their level. So we would have preferred GHC 2,000,” a different farmer added.
A collective group identifying itself as Lawyers in Search of Democracy (LINSOD) has voiced concerns that the Ghana Police Service is displaying a disregard for the law under the government of President Akufo-Addo.
These concerns have arisen in light of the recent actions of the police, who arrived on a bus to apprehend a group known as Democracy Hub, participants in the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest that took place on Thursday, September 21, 2023.
The police had previously submitted a court application and successfully served the organizers of a group identifying itself as Democracy Hub, in relation to a planned demonstration scheduled to occur near the Jubilee House from Thursday, September 21st, to Saturday, September 23rd, 2023.
However, upon observing the demonstrators assembling near the 37 transport stations in Accra on Thursday morning, the police proceeded to arrest approximately 50 members of the group.
In response, LINSOD released a statement asserting that the police’s interpretation, whereby the mere service of an application for an injunction on the demonstrators serves as a barrier for the demonstrators to proceed with their planned protest, is not a well-established legal principle. The statement further noted that similar actions, involving the service of an injunction, have been complied with by institutions such as the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
“EC is carrying out a limited registration of voters currently, notwithstanding that the Commission has been served with applications for an injunction on the exercise and another one for contempt for ignoring the injunction application.
“It is important to state that even if the service of the application for injunction serves as a bar on the intended demonstration, or if the injunction had even been granted and yet the demonstrators ignored all of that to proceed on the demonstration, the appropriate action against them should be contempt proceedings against them in court, but not arrest and detention by the police.
“The conduct of the police in this matter and many similar ones give resemblance to a police state in Ghana. It is lawless conduct to appease President Nana Akufo-Addo, whose administration, though democratic on paper, has largely been autocratic in practice. The conduct of the police is an affront to our democracy of many years, and it is a shame. Ironically, while our President is at the United Nations demanding for more democracy within the UN, the police in Ghana is abusing the rights of citizens and eroding our democratic credentials,” President of LINSOD Eric Delanyo Alifo, Esq. stated.
