A specialized survey, jointly conducted by Outcomes International Ghana and the Center for Sustainable African Development Initiatives (C-SADI) UK, has unveiled its projections for the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) Special Delegates elections.
According to the survey, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is expected to secure a commanding victory with a substantial 72.6 percent of the vote.
In the rankings following Dr. Bawumia, Alan Kyeremanten comes in second place with 7.7 percent, Ken Agyapong secures the third position with 4.3 percent, Kwabena Agyepong stands at fourth with 1.8 percent, and Dr. Owusu Akoto occupies the fifth spot with 0.6 percent.
The combined vote share for the remaining five candidates stands at 1.3 percent, while 11.7 percent of delegates remain undecided.
This survey was conducted in light of the evolving campaign dynamics within the NPP Special Delegates election. Outcomes International Ghana and the Center for Sustainable African Development Initiatives (C-SADI) UK collaborated to assess the likelihood of the top five candidates qualifying for the NPP Presidential Primaries scheduled for November 4, 2023.
The study delved into various socio-demographic factors that could influence the election’s outcome, including the impact of ethnicity, geography, and religion on the chances of viable candidates.
Additionally, the survey explored how delegates evaluate a candidate’s suitability.
The survey encompassed all 16 regions of the country and targeted 300 NPP special delegates out of the 961 voters in the electoral college.
The study employed a multistage probability proportional to size sampling (PPS) approach with implicit stratification to optimize survey efficiency and representativeness.
The regional breakdown of the sample size is as follows: Upper West (11 respondents), Upper East (17 respondents), North East (15 respondents), Northern (19 respondents), Savannah (17 respondents), Bono East (19 respondents), Bono (14 respondents), Ahafo (11 respondents), Ashanti (36 respondents), and Eastern (29 respondents). In the Greater Accra region, 29 individuals were interviewed, while Central (19 respondents), Western (19 respondents), Western North (15 respondents), Oti (11 respondents), and Volta (19 respondents) were also included in the study.
Furthermore, the survey targeted various categories of respondents, including Constituency Chairpersons (143 respondents), Regional Executive Members (103 respondents), Members of Parliament (33 respondents), Council of Elders (9 respondents),
National Council Members (8 respondents), Card Bearing Ministers (3 respondents), and Past National Officers (1 respondent).
Former National Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sammi Awuku, has confidently declared that the NPP will emerge winner in the upcoming 2024 presidential polls.
During an interview with Paul Adom Otchere, on Good Evening Ghana, Wednesday August 23, Mr Awuku explained that he had had a rare opportunity in politics to be trained by the communist party in China, while serving as the party’s youth leader.
He has also asserted that he has been trained on how the conservatives operate in the UK, the CDU and the republican party, therefore, he is not oblivious of what goes into campaign works.
Adding that he has what it takes to determine which candidate can deliver on a mandate.
“I believe that when I see candidates who show some of these dexterity and the utility ability to also deliver, I can see. The NPP will secure victory in 2024 and the NDC won’t understand,”
The Director General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) further stated that, he will not rely on any anticipated illegalities by the NPP but “it is important to emphasize that the NPP will win based on strategy.”
You will recall that during Nigeria’s presidential elections in February this year, there was evidence on social media suggesting that Peter Obi was the winner of the election.
But the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) came out at the end of the voting exercise to declare Bola Tinubu as President, which shocked Nigerians and Africans at large.
Several Nigerians expressed disappointment and even embarked on a short lived protest because of the evidence on social media that Peter Obi won.
On the basis of this experience, Mr Awuku emphatically stated that “good candidates don’t win elections, but good and smart candidates win elections.”
” If a candidate is strategic, the candidate knows when to throw the jabs and when to hit the opponent more at the groing, Errm…politics is strategy. I am sure ahead of the NIgeria polls, Social media in Ghana had their own candidate which was “probably Peter Obi”. But the INEC did not declare that.
Russia’s civil aviation authority has confirmed that the head of Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, was among the passengers on a jet that tragically crashed, resulting in the loss of all lives on board.
Earlier reports from the Wagner-linked Telegram channel Grey Zone indicated that the Embraer aircraft was potentially shot down by air defenses in the Tver region, located north of Moscow.
The ill-fated jet was en route from Moscow to St Petersburg, carrying a total of seven passengers and three crew members.
It’s worth noting that Prigozhin had recently led an unsuccessful mutiny attempt against the Russian armed forces in June.
According to Grey Zone, local residents reported hearing two explosions before the crash and witnessing two vapor trails.
Tass news agency has also reported that the plane caught fire upon impact with the ground, with four bodies having been recovered so far.
The aircraft had been airborne for less than thirty minutes at the time of the incident.
In Akropong, a second Okuapehene has emerged, challenging the government-backed Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, also known in private life as Odehye Kwadwo Kesse Antwi.
This development has thrown the Akuapem traditional area into turmoil, compelling the Akuapem North Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) to escalate the issue by bringing Odehye Kwasi Akuffo, a royal who claims the Okuapehene title, before the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) for further intervention.
The situation escalated on Saturday, August 12, 2023, when Odehye Kwasi Akuffo, reportedly an unsuccessful contestant for the vacant Ofori Kuma stool, presented himself as Okuapehene during the funeral of Odehye Gladys Abena Otema Ohene.
During the event, Odehye Kwasi Akuffo adorned himself in traditional regalia, accompanied by traditional drumming and dancing, along with appellations that implied his legitimacy as Okuapehene.
This action incited strong resentment within Okuapeman, leading some youth to express their frustration by threatening to apprehend Odehye Kwasi Akuffo, although their actions were eventually restrained.
Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, who has been officially recognized by state authorities as the Okuapehene for 37 years, voiced his discontent regarding the incident. He subsequently referred the matter to the appropriate institutions for immediate action, while his legal team contemplated the possibility of citing Odehye Kwasi Akuffo for contempt.
In response to the situation, the Akuapem North Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) held an emergency meeting on Tuesday, August 15, 2023. However, Odehye Kwasi Akuffo declined the council’s invitation.
Barima Asiedu Larbi, Chairman of MUSEC and the Municipal Chief Executive, addressed the media and explained that the matter had been forwarded to the Eastern Regional Security Council for guidance and necessary action.
“The whole of Okuapeman knows that it is Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III who is legitimate chief and properly gazetted and for that matter the one we all serving .So it came as a surprise when we head someone was parading as Okuapehene. So I detailed my security officers to embark on investigation. So we held Security Council meeting this afternoon and we have taken setting steps in addressing the issue to ensure there is peace and stability for the people of Akuapem. We have decided to write to REGSEC so that REGSEC will also direct what should be done …so that subsequently whatever action they want us to take we will take.”
However, he gave the assurance that security is on top of things and there is total calm, so the Odwira event would go on as planned.
“My security men are on ground. Everything is stabilized and we will keep stabilizing the environment so nobody should be afraid at all.People are speculating that this year’s Odwira is going to be affected by what happened on Saturday. I again want to assure that Odwira is coming on live and for the first time in almost about six years this is the first time Oseadeeyo will be in palanquin and so we have put so many security measures in place in ensuring that he will successfully celebrate this year’s Odwira festival. Whoever tries to destabilize the peace and security will be handed over to the security forces for the law to take its on course”.
“I stand on the shoulders of generations of matriarchs who have preceded me in serving Okuapeman and I will do everything within my power to help Okuapeman tap into the boundless possibilities that lie ahead,” Marigold said.
“I stand on the shoulders of generations of matriarchs who have preceded me in serving Okuapeman and I will do everything within my power to help Okuapeman tap into the boundless possibilities that lie ahead,” Marigold said.
Member of Parliament for the Madina constituency, Francis Xavier Sosu, was captured in a video showcasing his dancing prowess at a social event.
It is not often that Members of Parliament display their dancing abilities in public, but this time, Francis Xavier Sosu has broken the norm.
The Madina MP was sporting the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s (NDC) accoutrements and was dressed in his white attire, often known as “white jarabia.”
Francis-Xavier Sosu posted the video to Facebook with the comment, “Vim dey, Grounds work with my Kotokoli women, deep love.”
In the ongoing defilement case at the Wa Circuit Court, involving a 35-year-old defendant, four additional children have been confirmed to have experienced multiple instances of sexual penetration.
The confirmation was provided by Dr. Alhassan Mohammed Mubarik, a medical officer at the Wa Municipal Hospital, during his testimony before the court presided over by His Honour Jonathan Avogo.
The accused, Rashid Ahmed, also known as Anaata, once again denied any involvement in the sexual acts that the victims had attributed to him in their testimonies before the court. The victims had accused Ahmed Rashid of defiling them and attempting to defile them.
Ahmed Rashid is currently on trial at the Wa Circuit Court, facing eighteen counts of defilement and attempted defilement. The charges involve twelve children ranging in age from nine to fifteen.
While today’s trial has been adjourned until August 29, the alleged perpetrator is expected to appear in court on Friday, August 25, to cross-examine a police investigator who is anticipated to provide testimony on various counts.
The Ghana Investment Promotion Center (GIPC) is set to introduce new regulations aimed at bolstering the capabilities of local enterprises to facilitate and amplify Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs).
Yoofi Grant, the Chief Executive of GIPC, stated that his organization will establish a platform for mobilizing and utilizing the resources and expertise of the Ghanaian Diaspora Community to invest in Ghana, thus accelerating economic growth.
Speaking to Joy Business during the 2nd edition of the CEO’s Breakfast Meeting in Accra, which concentrated on enhancing local content through partnerships, Mr. Grant emphasized that GIPC’s primary objective is to empower local enterprises to effectively drive FDIs.
“We need to create the relationships that inure to benefits. How do we partner with our Foreign Direct Investments and local enterprises to create the conducive business environment that becomes the taste of Africa? We are coming out with new regulations that will facilitate foreign direct investments that will partner consistently with local enterprise”.
The 2023 CEO’s Breakfast Meeting’s second iteration brought together domestic and international investors to discuss ways to maximize local content participation in utilizing the nation’s resources through partnerships.
Humphrey Ayim-Darke, president of the Association of Ghana Industries, underlined the necessity for the government to have a specific goal for enhancing FDI in the nation during his statement during a panel discussion.
“Referencing the clear objective of the host country, we need to ask, what is the game plan or goal in attracting FDI’s. Is it for the purposes of job creation, or technology transfer? And when you fast forward it to today’s world, this evolution had perfected the best practices of FDI’s”.
The second CEO’s Breakfast Meeting of 2023 aims to improve the business environment in Ghana for both Ghanaian and foreign companies.
The 2023 United Nations’ State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report has disclosed that approximately 783 million individuals across the globe are grappling with hunger.
While this figure remains relatively unchanged from 2022, various factors like conflict, poverty, climate issues, economic shocks, and the impact of Covid-19 have made it improbable to achieve the 2030 sustainable development goal of eradicating hunger without significant transformations in both global and local food systems.
Released on July 12, 2023, the report also explicitly points out that food insecurity disproportionately affects women compared to men in all regions of the world.
However, the gender disparity in food insecurity, which had widened at a global level in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, narrowed from 3.8 percentage points in 2021 to 2.4 percentage points in 2022. This suggests that the unequal impacts of the pandemic on women’s food security have lessened both on a global scale and in some specific regions.
The gender gap notably decreased in Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, but expanded in Africa, Northern America, and Europe.
“Hunger has been on the rise in Africa since 2010, with a sharp increase in all sub-regions in 2020 followed by a gentler rise in 2021. In 2022, the prevalence of undernutrition in Africa continued to rise from 19.4 per cent in 2021 to 19.7 per cent – the equivalent of 11 million more people in one year and nearly 57 million more since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Moreover, hunger increased throughout all Sub-regions of Africa in 2022,” the report partly read.
“It’s time for all stakeholders to ask themselves if the systems created to feed the planet are working. It is very clear they are not. We need to shift our mindsets around ending hunger—it’s time to invest in people and in communities to transform these global systems that only benefit some,” said Rowlands Kaotcha, Vice President of Programs, Africa and Mexico with the Hunger Project.
Comparing East African countries based on the latest data from the live WFP hunger map as of August 11, 2023, reveals notable differences in their hunger and malnutrition statistics.
In Uganda, out of a population of 42.7 million, a significant 9.5 million individuals experience insufficient food intake. Among children under five years old, 3.5 percent are grappling with acute malnutrition, while a concerning 28.9 percent in the same age group are afflicted by chronic malnutrition.
Shifting to Kenya, which has a population of 51.4 million, approximately 12.1 million people are facing inadequate food consumption. Among children under five, 4.2 percent are currently dealing with acute malnutrition, and 26.2 percent of this age category are experiencing chronic malnutrition.
Turning to Ethiopia, with a population of 109.2 million, a substantial 23.2 million people are dealing with insufficient food intake. Among children under five, 7.2 percent are facing acute malnutrition, while a significant 36.8 percent are suffering from chronic malnutrition.
In South Sudan, which has a population of 11.0 million, around 3.5 million individuals are struggling with inadequate food consumption. Among children under five, a high 22.7 percent are experiencing acute malnutrition, and an equally concerning 31.3 percent in the same age group are contending with chronic malnutrition.
The Coalition of Transport Union and Association (CTUA) has cautioned that there is a possibility of transport fares escalating by 20 percent if the government fails to eliminate specific taxes integrated into the petroleum price structure.
The coalition is urging for the removal of both the sanitation and pollution levy as well as the energy sector levy. These measures aim to alleviate the excessive burden on drivers and the general public.
David Agboado, the National Public Relations Officer for the Concerned Drivers Association, underscored the government’s two-week timeframe to take necessary action. He elaborated that conversations regarding this matter commenced in June 2021, and after discussions with government representatives, it was agreed that the price stabilisation and recovery levy, along with the energy sector levy, are no longer effective.
Mr. Agboado also highlighted the obsolescence of the sanitation and pollution levy.
Despite their communication on this issue, no substantial changes have been observed from the government’s side.
Therefore, the coalition is asserting that unless corrective measures are implemented within the stipulated two-week window, a substantial 20 percent hike in transport fares will be implemented.
Below the full statement:
COALITION OF TRANSPORT UNIONs AND ASSOCIATIONs .
TRANSPORT FARES LIKELY TO INCREASE BY 20%
The Coalition of Transport Union and Association is calling on the government to abolish some burden taxes from the petroleum price build-up to ease the uncessary pressure on drivers and consumers.
As an association, we believe by the government abolishing the Sanitation and pullution Levy, the Energy sector Levy
Engergy debt recovery Levy and the special petroleum tax which the Supreme Court in 2015 ruled that it should be takenoff,should all not have a place in the price build-up.
We will also wish to state that, the purpose of implementation and allocation of the above taxes has failed woefully and the ceased to functioning .
We trust that, taking these taxes out will create a space in the price build-up to bring prices down and will ease uncessary pressure on drivers and our stakeholders.
Below are some significant increments from last year December.
1.In December last year Car battery 13 plate was sold at 400ghc, it now 670ghc
2.Car battery 15 plate was sold at 550ghc,it now 750ghc.
3. VIP buses car tyres Rim 22.5 were sold at 2500ghc ,it now going down 3600ghc.
4.Toyota vitz rim 14/15 tyres were sold at 80ghc ,it now 200ghc home used or second hands tyres.
5.Goil engine oil was sold at 120ghc ,it now 210ghc per gallon and Brake fluid 15 now 35ghc.
6.Shocks absorbers were 180ghc now 350ghc as well as Link bar 80 now 150ghc.
7.Sprinter bus was sold at 120,000ghc now 220,000ghc, Toyota vitz was sold at 36,000ghc now 120,000ghc.
8.Sprinter tyres brand new 1000ghc now 1,700ghc, Home used tyres sprinter 360ghc now 780ghc.
9.Scion engine 3,500ghc now 13,000ghc, Electronics engine was sold at 12,000ghc now 25,0000ghc.
We are therefore giving the government two weeks to scrub these taxes out or we increase fares by 20%.
Minister of Communication and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has announced that the government plans to collaborate with network operators and private investors to establish both 4G and 5G networks.
This decision follows the government’s approval of a neutral shared infrastructure company to provide these high-spectrum services.
During an interview at the 12th edition of the African Peering and Interconnection Forum in Accra, the Minister emphasized that the government’s approach will involve providing the 5G network to network operators rather than auctioning it. This strategy aims to facilitate the expansion of internet access throughout the country.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful highlighted that this initiative aligns with the government’s broader goals of fostering a digital economy.
“We have just been granted approval to have a neutral shared infrastructure along these lines, we’ll be working with network operators and private investors to set up a 4G and 5G network as well, so we are not going to be auctioning 5G, we are giving it to this networks so that all operators can use it and extend it to about 80% of the population,” the minister stated.
She added that the government had approved the landing of two underwater cables from Africa for low-cost internet connectivity.
The five submarine cable operators now present in Ghana will be increased by these two.
Country Senior Partner of Price Waterhouse Coopers Ghana (PwC), Vish Ahiagbor, has emphasized that the success of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) relies on the incorporation of local content into the operational processes of foreign-owned enterprises.
He highlighted that as the actions of foreign-owned businesses impact host communities, it is essential for them to establish mutually advantageous collaborations with local businesses.
Mr. Ahiagbor made these remarks at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) CEOs breakfast meeting in Accra.
He encouraged foreign investors to integrate local content into their production strategies by adopting local technology, facilitating skills and knowledge transfer, generating employment opportunities, and embracing environmentally sustainable practices.
“Investors should engage with the host community to facilitate the transfer of modern technology, encompassing efficient production methods and financing mechanisms, to advance technological progress within the host community.”
Regarding the Oil and Gas sector, Mr. Herbet Krapa, Deputy Minister of Energy, conveyed that the Ministry was dedicated to enforcing the local content law within the petroleum sector to the advantage of indigenous businesses.
“Over time, the government has employed legislation and policies to ensure the involvement of Ghanaians in the oil and gas sector, considering its high capital intensity. Therefore, we are committed to fostering the participation of Ghanaian businesses across the value chain,” he stated.
He highlighted that the enactment and implementation of the Local Content Participation Act had significantly increased the integration of Ghanaians in foreign-owned businesses within the oil and gas industry.
Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke, President of the Association of Ghanaian Industries (AGI), expressed that Ghana’s promotion of Foreign Direct Investment should be tailored to specific sectors.
He emphasized that the government should identify the industry with the greatest commercial potential and channel its efforts towards promoting FDI in that particular sector.
Yofi Grant, Chief Executive Officer of the GIPC, underscored the importance of Africa concentrating on attracting investments that are environmentally sustainable, as the continent is profoundly impacted by the consequences of climate change.
Zimbabweans are participating in presidential and parliamentary elections, despite some delays, following a campaign that has been largely shaped by the country’s skyrocketing inflation.
People waiting in lines at polling stations in the capital expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is contending with 10 rivals, among them Nelson Chamisa from the primary opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
To secure victory, a presidential candidate must garner more than 50% of the vote.
In the event that no candidate achieves an outright win, a presidential run-off will take place in six weeks on October 2nd. During this run-off, the over six million registered voters will select between the two leading candidates.
Following the act of voting on Wednesday, a resident of Harare shared thoughts on the challenging economic conditions currently prevalent in the country.
“I want my life to move improve, for the economy to be fixed, for my children to be able to go to school, healthcare to work. That is what we are voting for – for these things to be fixed,” she told the BBC.
A young male voter said he wanted “improvement in this country in terms of infrastructure… we are just expecting something better than what we are now”.
There have been delays at some polling stations in Harare that have been blamed on the late delivery of ballot papers, caused by legal challenges by some of those running for local council seats, which are also up for grabs.
The electoral commission says 23% of polling stations opened on time at 07:00 local time in Harare. In the second city, Bulawayo, 75% were open by 08:00, officials have said.
Some voters in Harare told the BBC that they had not been able to find their polling stations.
IMAGE SOURCE,REUTERS/AFP
Image caption,
This is the second time that President Mnangagwa (L) and Mr Chamisa (R) have faced each other in a presidential race
Casting his vote in Kwekwe, 175km (110 miles) south-west of Harare, President Mnangagwa, wearing his trademark scarf in Zimbabwean colours, said he was confident of winning.
“If I think I’m not going to take it then I’d be foolish. Everyone who contests, if you are going to race, you are going to race to win and it’s precisely what I’m doing,” he told reporters.
After voting in Harare, Mr Chamisa said that there was “going to be a new government in this country… We are winning this election.”
He also accused the authorities of “panicking,” noting that the delays were occurring predominantly in urban areas where the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) garners most of its support.
Members of his party have also claimed that counterfeit leaflets, falsely attributed to the CCC, have been disseminated, urging people to boycott the election.
A woman heading to the polls in the city of Bulawayo displays the spurious CCC leaflets advising against voting.
This election marks the first since the passing of Robert Mugabe, the dominant figure in Zimbabwean politics and the ruling Zanu-PF party for decades. Mugabe’s demise occurred in 2019, nearly two years after his ousting in a military coup, which led to his deputy, Mr. Mnangagwa, assuming power.
During the previous election in 2018, Mnangagwa secured victory in the first round with 51% of the vote. His closest rival, Mr. Chamisa, garnered 45% but contested the result unsuccessfully in court.
Police presence has been augmented across the country to ensure peace and order, with prison officers reinforcing their numbers, as stated by police chief Godwin Matanga ahead of the election.
Matanga emphasized that the pre-election period had largely been peaceful, despite sporadic skirmishes.
However, opposition parties assert that an excessive number of their rallies were either banned by the police or disrupted.
A CCC supporter lost their life in an earlier bout of violence this month, leading to the arrest of 15 suspects related to the incident.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) has issued a warning against wearing nail polish or nail extensions on the left pinkie finger, which will be marked with indelible ink after voting.
Monitoring groups have raised concerns about apparent anomalies on the voters’ roll, claiming that some names have been relocated from their customary voting locations to other areas.
There has also been criticism regarding last-minute alterations to electoral boundaries, potentially leaving voters unaware that their designated polling station has changed.
Mnangagwa, seeking a second term in office, is eager to secure international validation for the election in order to restructure Zimbabwe’s foreign debt and potentially restore access to credit lines that were frozen over two decades ago.
He has grappled with fluctuating inflation rates, which were in single digits in late 2017. However, annual inflation surged to 176% in June, and recent figures show a decline to 77.2% from 101.3% in July.
Zanu-PF opted not to produce a manifesto, contending that the president’s accomplishments speak for themselves, highlighted by growth in the mining sector and significant investments in infrastructure.
In contrast, the CCC argues that ordinary citizens have not reaped the benefits, with a quarter of Zimbabweans unemployed. Chamisa has proposed eliminating the volatile local currency if he secures victory.
Polling stations will close at 19:00 local time (17:00 GMT), and the presidential election results are expected within five days.
The General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) has issued a warning that the elimination of government subsidies on agricultural inputs could trigger food inflation and exacerbate the challenges faced by farmers.
According to the Union, the increasing costs of fertilizers and mechanization products are already impacting farmers’ ability to expand cultivation. Therefore, any policy that further raises the expenses of inputs might result in a significant decline in productivity over the coming years.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Edward Kareweh, the General Secretary of GAWU, emphasized that the agricultural sector is a crucial pillar of the economy and should be prioritized for subsidies.
He stressed that subsidies on agricultural inputs should only be reconsidered when the nation possesses the capability to adequately produce these inputs domestically.
“If subsidies on farm inputs are removed, it will disproportionately affect the impoverished segments of society,” warned Mr. Kareweh.
Ghana experienced a food inflation rate of 55.0 percent in July of this year, an increase from the 54.2 percent recorded in June. Additionally, the month-on-month food inflation stood at 3.8 percent.
Various stakeholders within the agricultural sector have expressed concerns regarding the challenging economic conditions that have arisen from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout. They argue that the removal of tax exemptions on essential agricultural inputs like mechanization products, fertilizers, imported seeds, agrochemicals, and veterinary medicines could severely impact the sector and exacerbate food prices if this decision is not reversed.
During a meeting with stakeholders in Accra, Mr. Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, mentioned that the possibility of granting tax exemptions for the importation of agricultural inputs was being deliberated upon by the Cabinet.
Mr. Kareweh reiterated that providing tax waivers for the agricultural sector is non-negotiable, particularly when the country lacks the capacity to domestically produce crucial agricultural inputs.
The Managing Director of GACL, Madame Pamela Djamson Tetteh, commended the dedication, hard work, and resilience of the company’s staff, especially the ORAT team, during the Operational Readiness and Transfer Phase (ORAT) of the project. She acknowledged their efforts in ensuring a smooth transition of operations.
Madam Djamson-Tettey also reaffirmed GACL’s commitment to providing world-class facilities and services for the benefit of stakeholders while maintaining a strong focus on airport safety and security.
In the meantime, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who officially inaugurated the new airport terminal, emphasized that the project was in line with the government’s vision to expand the horizons of the aviation industry. He highlighted that the project’s completion and the development of associated facilities are expected to stimulate increased economic activity, supporting the programs of the Northern Development Authority (NDA). This, he explained, would facilitate the export of fresh agricultural produce, job creation, and wealth generation.
Dr. Bawumia expressed optimism that the completion of the project would encourage other service providers to invest in areas such as Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), Cargo facilities, and cold storage for the export of perishable goods.
However, Dr. Bawumia expressed concerns about encroachment on airport lands and the associated risks for future expansion efforts. He called on relevant authorities to ensure the protection and proper management of airport lands to safeguard lives and property.
Background:
The second phase of the Tamale Airport Project, which commenced in July 2019, includes the construction of an Airport Terminal Building designed to accommodate an annual passenger throughput of 400,000, along with a Multi-Purpose Terminal and other related facilities.
The new Terminal Building features a VIP lounge, two Boarding Gates, two Self-Service Check-in Kiosks, eight Check-in Desks, airline offices, and commercial retail areas.
As part of the project design, a new 5km road network off the Tamale-Bolgatanga Road has been constructed to enhance accessibility to the airport.
Additionally, the Multi-Purpose Terminal, completed in 2022, played a role in facilitating Hajj Pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in 2022 and 2023.
The phased development of the Tamale Airport is part of a comprehensive plan to establish the facility as an alternative airport to Kotoka International Airport, with the capacity to handle wide-body aircraft in emergency situations.
Madame Pamela Djamson Tetteh, the Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), has emphasized that the inauguration of the Tamale International Airport is set to create new opportunities for Ghana’s aviation industry.
Madame Tetteh highlighted that the newly established airport terminal is poised to provide travelers with an enhanced and enjoyable experience, while also furthering Ghana’s aspiration to emerge as a central aviation hub within the West African sub-region.
Speaking at the ceremony to officially inaugurate the airport in Tamale on August 22, 2023, Madame Djamson Tetteh recounted the progression of events that culminated in the successful completion and inauguration of the project.
She specified that following the handover phase, the Operational Readiness and Transfer Phase (ORAT) was initiated.
“This involved the testing of equipment and systems, training of Personnel and subsequently, the gradual migration of operations from the old to the new Terminal and the objective was to mitigate the risks associated with the transfer of operations,” she explained.
The Managing Director of GACL, Madame Pamela Djamson Tetteh, commended the dedication, hard work, and resilience of the company’s staff, especially the ORAT team, during the Operational Readiness and Transfer Phase (ORAT) of the project. She acknowledged their efforts in ensuring a smooth transition of operations.
Madam Djamson-Tettey also reaffirmed GACL’s commitment to providing world-class facilities and services for the benefit of stakeholders while maintaining a strong focus on airport safety and security.
In the meantime, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who officially inaugurated the new airport terminal, emphasized that the project was in line with the government’s vision to expand the horizons of the aviation industry. He highlighted that the project’s completion and the development of associated facilities are expected to stimulate increased economic activity, supporting the programs of the Northern Development Authority (NDA). This, he explained, would facilitate the export of fresh agricultural produce, job creation, and wealth generation.
Dr. Bawumia expressed optimism that the completion of the project would encourage other service providers to invest in areas such as Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), Cargo facilities, and cold storage for the export of perishable goods.
However, Dr. Bawumia expressed concerns about encroachment on airport lands and the associated risks for future expansion efforts. He called on relevant authorities to ensure the protection and proper management of airport lands to safeguard lives and property.
Background:
The second phase of the Tamale Airport Project, which commenced in July 2019, includes the construction of an Airport Terminal Building designed to accommodate an annual passenger throughput of 400,000, along with a Multi-Purpose Terminal and other related facilities.
The new Terminal Building features a VIP lounge, two Boarding Gates, two Self-Service Check-in Kiosks, eight Check-in Desks, airline offices, and commercial retail areas.
As part of the project design, a new 5km road network off the Tamale-Bolgatanga Road has been constructed to enhance accessibility to the airport.
Additionally, the Multi-Purpose Terminal, completed in 2022, played a role in facilitating Hajj Pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in 2022 and 2023.
The phased development of the Tamale Airport is part of a comprehensive plan to establish the facility as an alternative airport to Kotoka International Airport, with the capacity to handle wide-body aircraft in emergency situations.
The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has announced a positive shift in Tanzania’s economic situation, indicating an improvement in the scarcity of the dollar and other economic challenges.
During a press briefing held at the central bank’s headquarters yesterday, Suleiman Misango, the Director of Policy and Research at BoT, highlighted the changing economic trajectory. He stated that there is now a transition in the economic landscape, with the availability of dollars becoming more stable due to a favorable global economic outlook.
This projection anticipates a 3 percent growth in 2023, an improvement from the earlier estimate of 2.8 percent at the beginning of the year. Consequently, this projection signifies a forthcoming increase in the supply of foreign currency.
BoT attributed the previous currency instability to several factors, including the conflict in Ukraine, the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, the impact of climate change, and the monetary policies pursued by foreign countries.
Elaborating on the latter factor, Misango emphasized that the monetary policies of developed nations grappling with high inflation had significant repercussions for Tanzania.
He specifically pointed to the decision by the United States Federal Reserve to raise interest rates from 0.25 percent in March to 5.5 percent by July 2023.
This policy change had a profound effect on the global economy, causing international investors to redirect their investments to the US market to capitalize on high returns. Consequently, this shift led to a scarcity of the dollar in other markets, including Tanzania.
Additionally, it exacerbated the risk premiums on interest rates for loans, contributing to the increased cost of borrowing from the global market.
“US inflation has now dropped to 3 percent, with their target being 2 percent. This means dollars will soon be accessible globally, including in Tanzania,” Mr Misango explained.
Offering additional context to explain why Tanzania’s economy is displaying resilience against recent global economic challenges, Mr. Misango provided insight into the country’s foreign reserves, stating that as of August 21, 2023, they stood at $5.441 billion. This foreign reserve is adequate to cover imports of goods and services for a span of 4.9 months, representing one of the highest levels in recent memory.
This reserve composition includes 77 percent in US dollars, 16 percent in Chinese Yuan, 4.78 percent in Sterling Pounds, and 1.72 percent in Australian dollars.
Mr. Misango highlighted that the central bank remains committed to implementing various measures aimed at shielding the local economy from external economic pressures. One example of such interventions involves the sale of foreign currency in the global exchange market. In the period from July to August 21, 2023, BoT sold $100.5 million in the foreign exchange market, a notable increase compared to the $62 million sold from July to September 2022. Furthermore, since the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine in March 2022, BoT has sold $518.5 million in the foreign exchange market.
Additional strategies employed by the government and central bank encompass acquiring gold reserves, boosting local production as an alternative to imports, collaborating with forex bureaus and other key financial players to encourage compliance with foreign currency regulations, and emphasizing that all transactions among residents must be conducted in the local currency.
These initiatives are geared towards maintaining sufficient liquidity of the Tanzanian shilling within the economy, aiming to alleviate domestic demand pressure on foreign currency, a phenomenon often referred to as dollarization.
The briefing in Dar es Salaam involved not only representatives from commercial banks—such as CRDB Bank Plc, NMB Bank, Absa Bank, and Diamond Trust Bank—but also owners and operators of forex bureaus from both the Mainland and Zanzibar.
Mr. Misango revealed that BoT conducts weekly meetings with key figures from commercial banks to collectively navigate economic shocks. Reflecting on the current situation, Ebrahim Alibhai, Head of Treasury at DTB, emphasized Tanzania’s favorable standing compared to its regional counterparts, citing BoT’s effective measures in addressing economic challenges.
NMB Treasurer Aziz Chacha highlighted a positive trend in reduced import values and encouraged the use of alternative currencies to lessen reliance on the US dollar.
CRDB’s Head of Treasury Sales, Mr. Olais Tira, contextualized the global nature of the current currency crisis, asserting that Tanzania has performed well in relative terms. He reassured the public that ample dollar supply exists in the local market and advised against excessive panic-driven dollar purchases.
BoT indicated signs of easing foreign currency challenges and a more robust GDP growth trend, rising from 4 percent in the previous year to 5.6 percent in the first quarter of 2023. The central bank further stated that the demand for foreign currency for imports, which was at 7.3 percent of the national economy in the year ending December 2022, has decreased to 6 percent. This indicates a diminishing demand for foreign currency.
Additionally, improvements in tourism and agricultural exports are contributing to mitigating currency challenges.
Experienced entrepreneur Deogratius Marandu, the owner of Kadoo Forex, noted positive signs of recovery, highlighting the Tanzanian shilling’s improved exchange rate against the US dollar.
BoT’s current priorities include augmenting foreign currency supply in the market, acquiring gold reserves, fostering export growth, enhancing private sector productivity, and maintaining close collaboration with commercial banks and bureaus to collectively address currency fluctuations.
Intense clashes persist in the vicinity of a strategically important army base in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, where the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are locked in fierce combat amidst an ongoing conflict.
In a statement issued on its official Facebook page on Tuesday night, the army reported successfully repelling yet another attack by RSF fighters on the Armoured Corps military base situated in the Al-Shajara area, located to the south of Khartoum. The army further stated that it dealt significant damage to the paramilitary force during the engagement.
In a counterclaim, the RSF asserted that it had gained control over sections of the base and seized substantial amounts of weaponry. This statement was disseminated on Tuesday night via the social media platform X, previously recognized as Twitter.
According to reports from the Saudi-funded Al Arabiya TV website, as of the third day of intense fighting, the army retained command of the base.
The confrontation between these two factions has escalated in recent days, extending from Khartoum into neighboring cities like Omdurman and Bahri, and even encompassing parts of the conflict-ridden western region of Darfur.
As indicated by the United Nations, the conflict that erupted in mid-April has resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and has displaced over four million people, further exacerbating an already dire situation.
The Burkinabe army has received new military hardware to aid in the Sahel region’s fight against terrorism.
On August 22, 2023, Zagazolo page on Twitter (X) reported that the equipment also included armored vehicles and drones.litary apparatus – Report
“The country has in 2023 acquired military equipment including drones and armored vehicles worth around $415 million to beef up the army’s capacity in the fight against terrorism,” the post on Twitter read.
The army is anticipated to use a number of Buffalo armored trucks, which Zagazola published images of.
After Christian Roch Marc Kabore, who had been democratically elected, was overthrown in a double coup in 2022, Burkina Faso is now governed by the military.
Later, Ibrahim Traore replaced Sandaogo Damiba as the head of the junta. The last two leaders of Burkina Faso were removed as a result of the recent terrorist bloodshed that has ravaged the country.
This new Burkina Faso's equipments will favor Tinubu and his followers 🙄
In the 1990s, the Bank of Ghana initiated a quest for suitable and secure land for a new Head Office due to the Central Business District’s encroachment on the existing premises and the imperative to accommodate the expanding operations.
In 2011, the bank’s Board of Directors resolved to explore finding a fitting location for the new headquarters.
In 2012, the Bank received a 5.19-acre land in Accra Central from the Lands Commission, accompanied by a payment of GHS 791,580.00.
However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration denied access due to a contested ownership claim.
Between 2012 and 2016, the Bank received various land offers, but these proved encumbered, unsuitable, or carried unfavorable terms.
Urgency escalated as the existing Head Office’s structural issues worsened, with visible cracks and portions falling off.
A Condition Survey by the Estate Office and a Structural Integrity Audit by third-party Engineering Firm ESPCo highlighted the inadequacy of the existing Head Office to withstand seismic activity or fulfill modern operational requirements.
In its 662nd Regular Meeting, the Bank’s Board directed the initiation of processes for a New Corporate Headquarters.
A parcel of land at West Ridge, previously owned by State Insurance Company (SIC), was acquired through a compulsory process by the Government of Ghana, marked by Executive Instrument, 2020 E.I 304.
Approval from Public Procurement Authority (PPA):
National security and information security needs informed the choice of firms.
The Bank sought PPA approval on 14th January 2020 for a Restricted Tender Method due to national security considerations.
Shortlisted firms included MAN Enterprise, WBHO Ghana Ltd, De Simone Ltd, Goldkey Properties Ltd, and Ronesans Construction (partnered with David Walter Limited).
PPA’s letter on 29th January 2020 conveyed approval.
The approved project cost was revised down from USD 100,857,942.48 to USD 81,882,640.00 without explanation.
Solicitation of Tenders:
Shortlisted firms received RFP documents on 21st February 2020.
A Pre-Bid Conference occurred in March and May 2020.
RFP was reviewed and re-issued on 4th May 2020.
Tender submission date moved to 5th June 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, with another pre-bid conference on 13th May 2020.
An addendum issued on 22nd May 2020 extended the deadline to 19th June 2020.
Tenders were opened on 19th June 2020 with stakeholder and Tenderer presence.
Tender evaluation took place between 6th and 17th July 2020.
Approvals:
Entity Tender Committee (ETC) approved awarding the project contract to Messrs. Goldkey Properties Limited at a cost of $121,078,517.94, the least cost evaluated bid, under Turnkey (Design and Build) arrangements.
ETC directed concurrent approval from the Central Tender Review Committee (CTRC) of the Ministry of Finance.
PPA’s response to the Bank’s letter on 31st August 2020 revised the approved estimated amount from USD 81,882,640.00 to USD 121,078,517.94.
CTRC approved engaging Messrs. Goldkey Properties Limited at a contract price of USD 121,078,517.94 under Turnkey (Design and Build) arrangements, the least evaluated bid.
Contract Award and Project Commencement:
Contract signed on 26th November 2020 for a 30-month Turnkey project (6 months for design, 24 months for construction).
Project site formally handed over in March 2021 for preliminary site work and designs.
Engagement of Employer’s Representative:
MULTICAD, a Ghanaian consultancy firm with extensive project management experience, selected.
MULTICAD’s credentials and expertise were evaluated, and their profile was submitted to PPA for review.
Single-source adoption based on Section 40 (f) of the PPA, considering national security, was the main consideration.
Design and Cost Reviews:
Initial design evolved to exceed 100,000 sq.m.
Incorporation of Sustainable Design Concepts, seismic resistance, energy conservation, and more.
Building design aligned with EDGE green standard.
Damping design approach for Seismic and wind loads.
Building Management System (BMS) for energy and utility monitoring.
The ETC approved a design review and revised project cost of USD 2,068.00/m2 on 19th December 2022.
Project Progress Update:
Current physical progress at 41%, with Tower Block up to 13th Floor slab casting completed, Urban Block upper Roof Slab casting completed, and Amenities (Auditorium) Block Upper Ground slab Casting completed.
Ongoing work includes internal blockwork at various levels, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) first fixes.
Concerns have been raised by the Railway Workers Union of Ghana regarding their operations on the deteriorated narrow gauge rail lines. These concerns stem from the unfavorable condition of the existing rail infrastructure.
The issues within the Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL) have further implications on the company’s financial stability, according to Mr. Godwill Ntarmah, the General Secretary of the Union. Speaking at a press conference held in Takoradi, he highlighted that these challenges have led to severe financial limitations, putting the company at risk of potential collapse.
He said: “The situation easily qualifies the company as a Highly Indebted Poor Company (HIPC).”
“The Company is owing GCB Bank millions of cedis, while workers’ Tier two Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) contributions have also not been settled since May 2022 till date,” he noted.
He added that from September 2021, employee deductions to their various credit unions, such as the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GHPA) and Rucomas Credit Unions, have fallen behind.
Mr Ntarmah said: “… All that we hear is the GRCL is a limited liability company, and therefore, should be able to work and generate enough to fund itself. This we disagree because with the challenges enumerated earlier, it is impossible for the company to generate enough funds to sustain itself and to operate.”
He said that although work on the western line’s standard gauge rail line, which runs from Kojokrom to Huni Valley, was moving along gradually, more efforts were needed to improve railroad operations.
He said that as a result, the workers made a plea to various authorities, including the President, to form partnerships and come up with practical solutions to all underlying problems in order to prevent the collapse of the GRCL.
President of Zimbabwe and the head of the ruling Zanu-PF party, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has exercised his voting right as the country’s elections commence on Wednesday. The President cast his vote in the company of the First Lady, Amai Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, at Sherwood Park Primary School located in Kwekwe city.
This presidential race has garnered the participation of 11 candidates, notably including the 80-year-old incumbent President, as well as the principal opposition leader, 45-year-old Nelson Chamisa. Chamisa leads the Citizen’s Coalition for Change (CCC) party.
A one-week Pilot Training Workshop was recently conducted in Tarkwa, Western Region, targeting District Mining Committees (DMCs) and selected Small Scale Miners.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources orchestrated this workshop, with intentions of extending its reach nationwide.
This initiative forms part of the ongoing endeavors to formalize Ghana’s artisanal and small-scale mining sector. Its primary objectives encompass ensuring compliance with legal frameworks, upholding environmental standards, fostering health and safety measures, and enhancing the sector’s positive contributions to local socioeconomic progress.
The workshop encompassed an array of subjects. These included Mining Policies and Legal Framework, Geological Explorations and Mineralogical Characterization of Ores, Mining Methods and Operations, Mineral Processing Methods, Environment, Social, Health and Safety in Artisanal Small-scale Mining (ASM), ASM Business Management and Administration. Notably, discussions also delved into vital matters such as Gender Mainstreaming and the issue of Child Labour within ASM.
George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, emphasized that responsible mining stands as a pivotal driver of the country’s development.
“Let us work together to create an enabling environment where responsible mining practices can thrive”, he said.
“By formalizing the sector, we can mitigate the negative impacts of illegal mining activities and create a more sustainable and inclusive industry. Through building the capacity of the District Mining Committee’s (DMCs) and Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, the Government aims to ensure sustainable and best mining practices are upheld” he said.
He claims that the government is contributing to the transition of the mining industry to a green and sustainable one. The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, the traditional leaders, and the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDCEs) must all play their parts as well.
According to him, the government is determined to make sure that the District Mining Commissioners (DMCs) are properly trained so they can assist in the effective monitoring of mining operations in their particular districts.
“As you learn all the basics about mining, please get to the grassroot and do your part to protect the environment for our survival and future generations. The knowledge and skills acquired here will benefit you and ripple out to the broader small-scale mining community as you serve as trainers in the step-down training at the community level.” he said.
Mr. Duker expressed appreciation for the University of Mines and Technology, the Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for creating the training manual and materials and setting up the training session.
“Your dedication and commitment to promoting responsible mining practices in our country is commendable. Let me also thank the World Bank Group for the financial and technical support that has made it possible for the government to provide this capacity-building training” he added.
The Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, noted that the region is responsible for 60% of the nation’s gold production.
He noted that mining, is everywhere in the country but it has to be done right and responsibly. “Let us learn the best practices to ensure its sustainability; the way the water bodies are polluted and the environment destroyed does not augur well for the industry and the country as a whole”.
He mentioned that some of the illegal mining lands are being restored in the region through the collaborative effort of the Western Regional Coordinating Council and the Small-Scale Miners Association. “Abide by all the principles in mining and implement what is being thought and discussed here,” he said.
Isabella Ivy Kangah, Assistant Basin Officer at the Water Resources Commission a participant who shared her thought on the topics discussed said “I have gotten to know the regulation, licensing and the importance of being legalized as a small-scale miner and getting the necessary permits for the operation”.
She said it is very important for small scale miners to keep records and submit report. “When you fail to submit the report, you will be fined or you can be given a penalty”. “We went through geological exploration, various mining methods and how to process the ore when you get it. And under the geological exploration, we go to know that most of the time people think most of the alluvial gold are found in the river basin. When you study the history of rivers, rivers actually divert as they move so, the greater amount of gold is found away from the river and not in the rivers. So, this will educate the small-scale to know that there’s no need for them to go into the rivers to fetch our gold while they can go away from it because that’s where they can get a greater amount of gold” she explained.
The Bank of Ghana’s Interbank forex rates for today, August 23, 2023, indicate that the Ghana Cedi is currently being traded against the US Dollar with a buying price of 11.0005 and a selling price of 11.0115.
Meanwhile, at a forex bureau situated in Accra, the US Dollar is available for purchase at a rate of 11.20 Cedis and can be sold at a rate of 11.50 Cedis.
In terms of the Pound Sterling, the Ghana Cedi has a buying price of 14.0091 and a selling price of 14.0243.
At the Accra-based forex bureau, the Pound Sterling is being bought at a rate of 14.40 Cedis and sold at a rate of 15.00 Cedis.
The Euro holds a buying price of 11.9338 and a selling price of 11.9457.
At the forex bureau located in Accra, the Euro can be purchased at a rate of 12.20 Cedis and sold at a rate of 12.70 Cedis.
Moving to the South African Rand, it has a buying price of 0.5853 and a selling price of 0.5857.
At the Accra forex bureau, the South African Rand is purchasable at a rate of 0.35 Cedis and can be sold at a rate of 0.95 Cedis.
For the Nigerian Naira, the current buying price is 68.5681 and the selling price is 70.4089.
At the forex bureau in Accra, the Nigerian Naira is acquired at a rate of 11.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi, and it is sold at a rate of 16.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi.
As for the CFA Franc, it is being traded at a buying price of 54.9116 and a selling price of 54.9663.
At the Accra forex bureau, the CFA Franc can be obtained at a rate of 16.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi, and it can be sold at a rate of 20.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi.
These forex rates are sourced from Afriswap Bureau De Change, situated 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.
The payment of the first coupons under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) is a sign of the government’s dedication to the program’s success, according to Deputy Finance Minister Dr. John Kumah.
He added that the action done by the government solidifies the legitimacy of the domestic debt operations carried out by the government.
On August 22, 2023, the deputy minister stated that the payment of the bonds will increase investor confidence on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News.
John Kumah said, “This is a confirmation of the government’s commitment to the continued success and credibility of the domestic debt operations that the government undertook in the early part of the year.”
“It is a good thing, and it assures the market of confidence and the government will continue to keep to its obligations as far as the debt operations and restructuring is concerned,” he added.
The Deputy Minister of Finance provided reassurance to the citizens of Ghana, particularly those holding government bonds, regarding the government’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling its responsibilities. The commitment entails making the appropriate payments once all the coupon payments have reached their maturity dates.
On Tuesday, August 22, 2023, the Ministry of Finance declared that the initial matured coupons from bonds issued as part of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) were prepared for distribution.
This announcement was made by the ministry through a post on the microblogging platform Twitter, which was previously referred to as X.
The atmosphere in the press room is a tad calmer than it was on Day One of the Brics meeting. Access is always a problem at these gatherings, but it’s becoming increasingly obvious that the media’s only chance to get near to any dignitaries is through live streaming on enormous screens.
The leaders of all five countries made opening remarks on Monday outlining their objectives for the summit, which centered on bolstering the economies of the developing world and expanding the bloc to give it more influence on the world stage.
But there are already some conflicts arising from the expansion debate.
Brazilian Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva took to social media saying, “We do not want to be a counterpoint to the G7, G20 or the United States” – while President Xi Jinping took the opposite view.
“Right now, changes in the world, in our times, and in history are unfolding in ways like never before, bringing human society to a critical juncture,” the Chinese leader said in remarks that were delivered by his commerce minister. “The course of history will be shaped by the choices we make.”
The reason for President Xi’s last-minute decision to skip his scheduled address remains unclear. Throughout most of the day, he had been the focal point of attention. He was welcomed on the airport tarmac by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, engaged in a brief state visit in South Africa during the morning, and participated in a ceremony to receive an order of merit from South Africa.
Unverified speculations are circulating regarding his absence, ranging from illness to a potential fall, or even a perceived lack of importance attached to the event. What remains certain is that the true reason may never come to light.
Meanwhile, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin made a 17-minute pre-recorded video statement. In this statement, he took several swipes at Western nations, strongly criticizing the imposition of what he referred to as “illegitimate sanctions” on his country. Additionally, he issued a veiled threat to permanently halt Ukraine’s grain exports.
As the leaders move into closed meetings this morning, anticipation mounts for a forthcoming press conference. Observers are particularly eager to hear President Putin’s live remarks, which could shed more light on the current situation.
Deputy minister of energy, Herbert Krapa, has remarked that 40% of the oil and gas industry’s new positions are held by Ghanaians. He said that the majority of the employment produced are a result of the Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) drawn to the nation. The government does not regret enticing foreign investors to explore Ghana’s resources, according to the deputy minister of energy, who was speaking at the CEOs Breakfast Meeting in Accra on Tuesday, August 22, 2023.
However, he asserted that more has to be done by the government in terms of creating partnerships and incentives that will help more Ghanaians.
“The participation of Ghanaians in that sector [oil and gas] has not been a sad story, has not been something that we say we regret attracting the investors to explore resources,” Herbert Krapa said.
“In 2019 when we last counted, we had 40% of the employment in the sector in Ghana being Ghanaians and we’re looking at now focusing more on the managerial and high technical to make sure we have more Ghanaians in that sector as well,” the deputy energy minister stated.
According to statistical data, there was a significant decrease in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Ghana during the year 2022. The FDI figure plummeted from US$2.6 billion in 2021 to US$1.5 billion in the past year.
The World Investment Report for 2023 by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) highlighted a parallel decline in FDI inflows across the African continent. These flows reduced from US$80 billion in 2021 to US$45 billion in 2022.
Consequently, Africa’s contribution to the global FDI landscape shrank to 3.5 percent.
Philanthropist and gospel musician, Philipa Baafi, believes that making love only slightly affects how well a marriage works.
The singer remarked that decision-making is the most significant component of every marriage when she was interviewed by Amansan Krakye on Property FM in Cape Coast.
She meant by this that partners should be able to communicate and reach consensus on issues.
“Most often I do say that sex plays just a minimal role because after you get married you become like siblings to each other.
“The Bible says can two walk together except they agree and so how can I journey on in life if my husband doesn’t share similar ideas with me it’ll be difficult,” she stated.
An emotional moment when a mother was reprimanding her son for stealing on the street was caught on camera.
According to the viral video, the young man was beaten into a coma after being discovered engaging in such immoral behavior.
A woman, presumably his mother, was visibly distressed and sobbing in anguish as she reprimanded her son for his misconduct. The mother expressed her frustration, stating that despite their continuous efforts to support him, the young man repeatedly shamed their family.
The distressed mother recounted that she regularly provides him with money for his needs, yet he remains unsatisfied and resorts to stealing belongings from others without their consent.
Veteran Nollywood performer Chinedu Ikedieze, commonly known as Aki, has described how he first met Osita Iheme, also known as Pawpaw, his coworker and dynamic half.
He claimed in an interview with Nigerian media personality Chude Jideonwo that he could tell they would get along right away. He remembered that even before they met, when they both lived in the same town, he had been mistaken for Osita.
“But before then, something happened. Because I have an uncle like my mother’s family, most of them live in Abba. I always visit him in Abba. I noticed something.
“Whenever I go to the market to buy clothes, I would meet one woman that asked me, ‘You were here yesterday? Remember you said I should keep these clothes for you’. She will give me the clothes. When Osita will come again, she will tell Osita ‘You came and collected the clothes.’ So it was happening. I didn’t even know. “So that day, when I saw him, I was like, ‘yeah, that’s the guy’. It was that was destined to be,” he revealed.
He continued by saying that they grew close right immediately and even finished each other’s lines during filming.
“The chemistry from that first day, everything was just perfect. If you are on a set, if you’re taking the line, maybe he misses the line, I will chip in without anybody knowing. Except if you’re looking at the script. If I miss a line, he will correct me. And if you’re not looking at the lines word to word, you will think it was planned,” he added.
Following the release of the successful film “Aki na Ukwa” in 2002, Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme both became well-known throughout the early 2000s.
Chinedu Ikedieze, popularly known as Aki narrates how he first met his dynamic half, Osita Iheme, better known as Pawpaw.
He states that from the very first time they met, there was this chemistry between them as their relationship was aligned in the stars. pic.twitter.com/cHGRset6Pf
Celebrated actress from Ghana, Empress Nana Ama Mcbrown, has disclosed that when her husband returns from a night out late, she doesn’t take things lightly. This discovery was presented byNana Ama Mcbrown to a group of young women at a lecture.
She attempted to make her husband responsible for his conduct, despite the fact that he was the leader of the household, as described by Mcbrown.
To underscore her point, Nana Ama Mcbrown elaborated on how she consistently addresses her husband when he arrives home late from club outings.
As she shed light on the various facets of marital life to the young women, Mcbrown emphasized the importance of women establishing themselves prior to considering marriage.
Drawing from her own journey, she openly shared that she had possessed her own residence and a thriving career 12 years prior to uniting with herspouse, Mr. Maxwell Mensah.
Renowned Ghanaian actress, a television host, and media personality, Felicity Ama Agyemang, widely recognized as Nana Ama Mcbrown, has openly disclosed that she possessed her own residence, vehicles, and a successful career prior to encountering and marrying her husband roughly 12 years ago.
Nana Ama McBrown and Maxwell Mawuli Mensah exchanged vows in a private wedding ceremony on August 5, 2016, and they are now the proud parents of a charming daughter named Baby Maxin.
Given their prominent positions, the couple’s marriage has captivated public attention and prompted speculation.
Addressing a group of young women during a seminar, Mcbrown emphasized the significance of achieving financial independence before contemplating marriage.
Mcbrown underscored that in the modern era, the paradigm has shifted, and women should prioritize their financial empowerment prior to delving into the realm of marriage.
Drawing from her own experiences, she openly disclosed that she possessed her own house and had established a career over a decade ago before entering into matrimony with her spouse, Mr. Maxwell Mensah.
A Nigerian mechanic has landed in a troublesome situation following the collision of a freshly acquired Mercedes Benz while en route to delivering it to a customer who had just made the purchase.
After successfully completing the necessary repair work on the vehicle, the unfortunate mechanic aimed to hand it over to its new owner, who had recently made the purchase from a dealership.
Regrettably, unforeseen circumstances led to the car plunging front-first into a drainage, causing the mishap.
Online information led us to believe that the incident took place close to Otedola in the state of Lagos.
The automobile is shown in poor condition after the crash in a popular video from the reports. It is yet unknown if the driver is alive or has suffered any serious injuries.
Residents could be seen swarming the scene of the collision after the driver had apparently been extricated.
In addition to being a well-known gospel singer, Philipa Baafi, a medical assistant, said she has ventured into some businesses in the past.
She said, “Let’s learn that when times are tough, you’ll be able to use your hands to work, even though I’m a musician, but I used to make fruit juice,” as she spoke with Amansan Krakye.
“Even though I’m a star but I used to produce fruit juice on a large scale to supply and later on I was supplying them to some hotels,” she added on Property FM in Cape Coast.
“I supplied fruit juice to some of the big hotels though I’m a star, someone might think that I’m just sitting idle thinking about getting a helper,” she continued as MyNewsGh.com sighted.
Philipa Baafi stated “Even pieces of jewelry I used to import some of them into the country to supply and all that I want to say is do something else with the little funds you have”
Nigerian rapper and singer, Folarin Falana, known by his stage name Falz The Bahdguy, has characterized his experience with a knee injury as “an incredibly challenging period.”
In a flashback, it can be recalled that on May 2, 2023, Falz underwent a knee surgery at a medical establishment in London, United Kingdom.
During an appearance on Cool FM Nigeria’s show, The Big Friday Show, which is hosted by reality star Tacha, Falz explained that he opted for the surgery due to an ACL injury sustained while participating in a football game.
He said, “It was a very difficult time for me. I had ACL reconstruction surgery. Your ACL is like a ligament that holds your knee together. What actually happened is that that ligament torn totally. So the knee kind of scattered.
“It was an actual football injury. I was just running and the thing just comot like that. I don’t know how it happened because I have been playing football since I was a child. And everything was going smoothly. Maybe on that fateful day, I didn’t stretch well.
“But it always happen. It’s a slightly common injury for athletes. I’m glad I’m back. I’m up and running now. It’s a one-time surgery. Now I’m in rehab doing physiotherapy. Just exercising and trying to build the muscle back to 100 per cent.”
Ghanaian musicians Black Sherif and Camidoh have received nominations in multiple categories for the inaugural Trace Awards.
Black Sherif is in the running for Best Artist Africa – Anglophone and Best Collaboration, thanks to his “Second Sermon” remix featuring Burna Boy. Camidoh, on the other hand, has earned a nomination for Song of the Year for his chart-topping single “Sugarcane.”
Additionally, DJ Juls has been nominated for the title of Best Producer of the Year. Black Sherif, renowned for his musical prowess, is among Ghana’s most celebrated artists and has achieved numerous accolades, including the prestigious Vodafone Ghana Music Awards ‘Artiste of the Year’ in 2023.
Camidoh is also emerging as a rising star in the Ghanaian music scene, with his hit single “Sugarcane” making waves and securing a spot in the top 10 in Ghana and across Africa in 2022. The organizers of the awards unveiled the list of nominees for the inaugural event on Monday, August 21, 2023.
Olivier Laouchez, the chairman and co-founder of the awards, commended African artists for their “extraordinary creativity and dynamism.” He expressed his anticipation for the forthcoming awards ceremony scheduled to take place on October 21, 2023, at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda.
“It was an actual football injury. I was just running and the thing just comot like that. I don’t know how it happened because I have been playing football since I was a child. And everything was going smoothly. Maybe on that fateful day, I didn’t stretch well.
“But it always happen. It’s a slightly common injury for athletes. I’m glad I’m back. I’m up and running now. It’s a one-time surgery. Now I’m in rehab doing physiotherapy. Just exercising and trying to build the muscle back to 100 per cent.”
Renowned singer Oludipe Oluwasanmi David, famously recognized as Spyro, has firmly stated that celebrities hold a responsibility to their fans by leading an upright and honorable lifestyle.
He highlighted that his late mentor, Sound Sultan, imparted the valuable lesson that maintaining a dignified life is achievable even amidst celebrity status.
The artist behind the hit track ‘Who Is Your Guy’ shared these insights while being featured as a guest on the latest episode of The Honest Bunch podcast, which is co-hosted by actor Chinedu Ani Emmanuel, also known as Nedu.
He said, “I saw Sound Sultan, he doesn’t drink nor smoke. Even when we go to club, you won’t see him chasing women.
“We owe it to the fans to live a decent life. The first time I met Sound Sultan, he sat me down on his dining table and told me, ‘A lot of politicians come to me because they know if I support them, everybody will do the same.’
“He said they [politicians] would bring a lot of money. Dem go put Ghana-must-go down say just support. But then he told me that if he accept, wetin him dey plan down for his kids? But now he is actually gone.
“We live like we own our lives. You are going to leave your kids behind one day. What are you leaving them to? What kind of society are you creating and you’re leaving them to? He [Sound Sultan] made that impact on me.”
Speaking further, Spyro said, “Why should I be boxed as a gospel singer or secular singer? I’m just a singer and it is expected of me to make decent music.”
British police, has reported that, Diezani Alison-Madueke, a former oil minister of Nigeria, has been accused of bribery offenses.
She may have accepted bribes in exchange for receiving multi-million dollar oil and gas contracts, according to the UK National Crime Agency.
From 2010 until 2015, Ms. Alison-Madueke, a former Opec president as well, worked in Goodluck Jonathan’s cabinet in Nigeria.
She is allegedly in receipt of tens of thousands of dollars in cash, private jet travel, opulent vacations for her family, and access to multiple London houses.
She rejects the accusations.
She resides in London for the moment, according to the police, and will testify in court in October.
The Chief Executive Officer of the defunct Menzgold, Nana Appiah Mensah aka Nam 1, has claimed that he is the largest loser in the matter, despite the fact that those who lost money as a result of his alleged Ponzi Scheme continue to demand justice for their losses.
On Sunday, July 20, 2023, NAM 1 remarked on a Twitter space that the failure of his company had caused him the most loss because he no longer had any property to his name.
“If you want to crown the biggest loser in all of this thing, I am the one, because I lost everything: I lost all my properties and I don’t even have a car of my own in this country,” he stated.
The CEO facing numerous challenges responded to sentiments expressed by his customers during a Twitter Space session. The discussion revolved around the decision to impose a GHC650 fee for verification before disbursing their held funds.
Unsatisfied customers used the platform to express their discontent, branding Nana Appiah Mensah as lacking empathy, credibility, and accused him of manipulation.
Menzgold, the gold trading company, was forcibly closed down by the Securities and Exchange Commission in September 2018. Prior to its collapse, the firm operated an investment scheme promising monthly returns ranging between 7% and 10% to its clients.
According to the SEC, Menzgold operated beyond its granted license, prompting regulatory intervention.
Following the company’s downfall, NAM1, as he is known, faced criminal charges. However, critics have criticized the prolonged duration of his ongoing trial, which is yet to commence in full.
In Sudan’s four-month battle, at least 498 children “and probably hundreds more” have perished from famine, according to a report released on Tuesday by the NGO Save the Children.
The organization’s director in Sudan, Arif Noor, diclosed in a news release that “children are dying of hunger when it could have been completely avoided” in a nation where one in three citizens experienced starvation before to the war.
“At least 498 children in Sudan and probably hundreds more have died of starvation” since the start of the war on April 15, he adds. “We never imagined seeing so many children dying of starvation but this is the new reality in Sudan.”
And things could become worse because Save the Children had to cease treating “31,000 malnourished children” because they were unable to run their programs in the midst of the war. May saw the destruction of the factory that generated 60% of the nutritional therapy for kids.
According to a survey by the NGO Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (Acled), the fight between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (FSR, paramilitary), which experts predict might endure for years, has resulted in about 5,000 deaths since April 15. More than four million people had to escape as a result of it.
Confronted by the harrowing situation, the international community is grappling with the challenge of securing funding for assistance to displaced individuals, refugees, the wounded, and victims of sexual violence. Meanwhile, international justice remains concerned about potential “war crimes.” Humanitarian efforts have been hindered by authorities preventing entry and movement, along with instances of attacks. These aid organizations stress that they have only managed to acquire 27% of the necessary funds.
As of Tuesday, the violence has persisted, primarily affecting Khartoum and Darfur—a vast western region equivalent in size to France and home to around a quarter of Sudan’s approximate 48 million inhabitants. Within Darfur, the epicenter of conflict lies in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur. Since August 11, reports indicate “60 fatalities, 250 injuries, and 50,000 displaced individuals,” as reported by the UN.
Tragically, the local military commander was reportedly “assassinated” there on Monday. The ongoing hostilities impede the passage of humanitarian aid-laden trucks. In Nyala, the Turkish hospital—the sole operational medical facility—has declared itself overwhelmed by the influx of wounded individuals.
Recent developments have seen the conflict extend to el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. This follows a grim pattern where, as outlined by the humanitarian research laboratory at Yale University, at least 27 localities in Darfur have been subjected to burning by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their Arab militia allies.
The head of this facility, which works with the Conflict Observatory, AFP Nathaniel Raymond, confirms that “nobody stops the FSR, they move freely while the army is entrenched in its bases.”
CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Pius Enam Hadzide, has expressed his appreciation to the government for the implementation of a 10% tax on lottery winnings and betting.
He highlighted that the escalating participation of young individuals in betting poses a substantial risk to the nation, referring to it as a “time bomb.” He believes that the introduction of the 10% tax will play a crucial role in curbing this concerning trend.
Enam Hadzide, CEO of the National Youth Authority, emphasized that a growing number of young people are straying from the foundational principles of the nation—namely, diligence and honesty—instead seeking quick avenues for personal enrichment.
During an interview on Citi TV’s program “The Point of View” on August 21, 2023, Pius Enam Hadzide revealed that the prevalence of gambling in Ghana poses a serious threat to the education system.
“We have been concerned about the increasing incidences of gambling that are affecting even the education of children. Our assessment is that when you go to many of these betting sites, you see young people in uniforms betting. We have developed the culture that the Ghanaian is known as one who is hardworking, one who is committed to decent work and honest work.
These are what we stand for. According to citinewsroom.com, he remarked, “The idea of young people trying to become wealthy rapidly is a perilous route to follow for any country in the long run.
The National Youth Authority CEO stated that he fully supports the implementation of the 10% betting tax and believes that it will deter young people from gambling.
“So we have always advocated that the government should take steps to discourage gambling. We were looking at both legislative and physical measures, such as tax measures, to discourage and disincentivize people from indulging in excessive betting, especially now that our own research has indicated that the vast majority of the youth in our country are drifting into that area. In our view, it is a ticking time bomb.
“So we applaud the government because we have brought up this matter before past and present officers of state, and we are excited that the government is finally listening to us and implementing measures to disincentivize gambling,” citinewsroom.com quoted him as having said.
The Coastal Development Authority (CODA) clarified that the cost of each of the 100 minicars, intended to replace commercial motorbike operations (okada), was GHS25,000. This amounts to a total of GHS2.5 million, contrary to the “false” reports circulated by certain digital media platforms, which incorrectly indicated GHS85 million.
Additionally, CODA refuted allegations that the minicars were abandoned and left to deteriorate.
The CODA Drive Initiative, launched by the Akufo-Addo government, aimed to fulfill a 2020 campaign pledge of substituting okada bikes with cost-effective Bajaj Qute minicars through a hire-purchase arrangement.
In an official statement, CODA strongly rejected the media assertions as being “blatantly false, malicious, unfounded, entirely inaccurate, and designed to cause harm to the Authority and the government.”
CODA clarified that the initial batch of 100 vehicles received an “overwhelming response,” and the ongoing “significant demand” for more has been noteworthy.
The Authority firmly emphasized that it had “procured only 100 CODA Drive Vehicles at a price of GH¢25,000.00 per unit,” amounting to a total of Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (100 vehicles). This stands in stark contrast to the incorrect claim of Eighty-Five Million Ghana Cedis (GH¢85M) propagated by Pulse.com.gh and unidentified sources.
The statement was issued to set the record straight and to ensure the accuracy of information surrounding the matter.
CEO of the National Food Buffer Stock Company, Mr. Hanan Abdul-Wahab, has announced that the government has settled 85 percent of the outstanding debts owed to food suppliers.
He stated that the government disbursed GHc100 million on July 17 and additionally released GHc80 million this month (August) for payment.
As a result, the remaining arrears amount to less than GHc30 million, which is expected to be completely cleared by the end of August 2023. Mr. Abdul-Wahab revealed these details during a news briefing held by the Minister in Accra on Monday.
Between 2017 and 2022, the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCo) received GHc2.7 billion from the government. These funds were utilized to honor business transactions entered into with licensed food suppliers.
Mr. Abdul-Wahab assured that NAFCo would effectively fulfill its mandate to ensure a sufficient supply of food items for 700 boarding senior high schools, thereby ensuring the adequate feeding of 1.2 million students under the Free SHS Policy.
Last month, certain food suppliers staged a protest at NAFCo’s premises in Accra, demanding payment of GHc275 million in overdue payments owed by the government for food supplied to schools.
The incident garnered significant media attention, prompting the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Mr. Bryan Acheampong, to visit the protesters.
Members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament also visited the picketers to understand the reasons behind the delay in payment.
This action by the Minority Caucus sparked tensions with some government officials, leading to a heated exchange between the sector minister and certain NDC MPs present at NAFCo’s premises.
In a previous presentation, the NAFCo CEO outlined various policy measures and initiatives that the company has undertaken over the past six years to mitigate post-harvest losses and ensure equitable pricing for food items sourced from suppliers.
Among the initiatives is the “1 District, 1 Warehouse” program aimed at constructing 80 warehouses with a capacity of 1000 metric tonnes in each district. Sixty of these warehouses have already been completed under the first phase of the project.
The rehabilitation of other warehouses across the country was also mentioned, including the 5,000 MT warehouse in Duase, the 2,500 MT warehouse in Sunyani, the 1,300 MT warehouse in Wenchi, and the 2,500 MT warehouse in Yendi.
Mr. Abdul-Wahab emphasized that NAFCo holds the exclusive mandate from the government to supply 18 distinct food items to the 700 boarding senior high schools. These items include maize, beans, peanuts, millet, soybeans, rice, and locally processed products like gari, edible palm oil, Tom Brown, tin tomatoes, and processed cocoa powder.
He reiterated NAFCo’s dedication to contribute to the growth of the agricultural value chain, encompassing harvesting, transportation, processing, storage, and distribution. The company is committed to leveraging opportunities within the agricultural value chain to fully realize the benefits of its establishment.
Government extends deadline for domestic dollar bonds and pension funds
The government has decided to prolong the deadline for the alternative offer program concerning domestic dollar bonds and pension funds until August 25, 2023.
The Ministry of Finance has conveyed that this decision comes in spite of a previous declaration indicating a participation rate of around 91% in the bonds. This initial offering commenced on July 14, 2023, and was extended until August 4, 2023.
The Finance Ministry in statement issued on Tuesday August 22, 2023, said that this administrative extension “afford holders that have not tendered, additional time to secure internal approvals to participate, through this administrative window to participate in this exchange.”
The new timetable for the Invitation is as follows:
Expiration Date: Friday, 25th August 2023 at 4:00 p.m. (GMT) (the “New Expiration Date”). Announcement Date: On or about Monday, 28th August 2023. Settlement Date: Expected Friday, 1st September 2023, or as soon as practicable thereafter. Longstop Date: Monday, September 4, 2023, unless further extended by the Republic pursuant to the Invitation.
However, concerning pension funds, the Ministry of Finance has stated that, “in response to feedback received from Eligible Holders for more time to secure internal approvals to participate, the Government has chosen to extend the offer until August 25, 2023.”
The updated timetable for the Pensions Alternative Offer is as follows:
Expiration Date: Friday, 25th August 2023 at 4:00 p.m. (GMT) (referred to as the “New Expiration Date”).
Announcement Date: Expected on or about Monday, 28th August 2023.
Settlement Date: Anticipated on Friday, 1st September 2023, or as promptly as feasible thereafter.
Longstop Date: Monday, 4th September 2023, unless the Government decides to further extend it in accordance with the Invitation.
The highest court of the Central African Republic has officially endorsed the results of the July referendum, which extends the presidential term to seven years and eliminates restrictions on re-election.
The court announced that an overwhelming majority, amounting to 95%, approved the referendum, with a turnout rate slightly above 57%.
Under the newly ratified law, a position for a vice-president, appointed by the president, is established, and the previously bicameral parliament is replaced by a unicameral one. This transformation also entails the abolishment of the senate.
Additionally, the amended law disqualifies individuals with dual citizenship from presidential candidacy and elevates the number of supreme court justices from nine to eleven.
Last September, the top court invalidated the committee responsible for drafting the revised law, prior to the forced retirement of the court’s president, Daniele Darlan.
Prominent opposition parties and civil society organizations in the nation had urged for a boycott, contending that the revised legislation was engineered to ensure President Faustin-Archange Touadéra’s perpetual stay in power. They asserted that the constitutional review committee had acted under the influence of Russia.
President Touadéra receives support from Russian Wagner mercenaries, with additional fighters arriving before the referendum to enhance security.
This landlocked country, rich in diamonds and gold, has faced enduring conflict and political instability since gaining independence from France in 1960.
Over six weeks following their departure from Senegal, 38 survivors of the boat tragedy off Cape Verde have returned to Dakar via a military aircraft on Monday evening, as confirmed by the authorities.
This group constitutes part of the 101 individuals who embarked on the voyage on July 10 with the intention of reaching Spain’s Canary Islands.
Tragically, over 60 individuals, primarily men hailing from the fishing community of Fass Boye and its environs, are feared to have lost their lives after their vessel remained adrift at sea for more than a month.
The Walking Borders NGO reported that it notified the authorities in Senegal, Mauritania, Morocco, and Spain back in July, yet no rescue operations were initiated by these nations. As a result, those aboard the vessel were left isolated and subjected to the mercy of the Atlantic Ocean for several weeks.
In the wake of the boat tragedy, a sense of sorrow and frustration persists within the affected town. Several residents, including members of the same family, shared with the BBC their relief upon learning that their loved ones were en route back home, having survived the ordeal.
Tanzania has raised concerns about a lack of funds to cater to the growing number of refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Authorities in Dodoma have appealed to development partners to provide assistance for refugees residing in camps. This plea comes in response to a recent announcement by the World Food Programme that it would reduce food rations for refugees in Tanzania due to a significant funding gap.
Sudi Mwakibasi, Director of the Refugee Services Department within the Ministry of Home Affairs, emphasized the urgent need for financial support to aid the refugees who have gathered in Nyarugusu camps located in the Kigoma region. Mwakibasi disclosed that Tanzania has received around 11,000 refugees from the DRC this year, yet no support has been forthcoming from development partners.
The pace of voluntary repatriation of refugees to their home countries, such as Burundi and the DRC, has also been hampered by insufficient funding. Those who choose to return are provided with transportation and a resettlement grant.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has stated a requirement of at least $700 million within its budget to sustain its programs in Tanzania. UNHCR data reveals that Tanzania has become a recurring destination for refugees fleeing violence in neighboring nations.
The instability in the DRC has been instigated by rebels in the eastern part of the country.
Between September 2022 and January 2023, hundreds of Congolese sought refuge in Tanzania through the Kigoma region and Lake Tanganyika using canoes, as reported by Tanzanian government officials. The majority of these refugees are housed in the Nyarugusu Refugee Camp near the DRC border.
However, authorities have also noted instances of undisclosed numbers entering through porous borders.
This influx of refugees coincides with the accelerated withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, as outlined in a report presented to the UN Security Council by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. This departure marks the conclusion of a contentious chapter, but it could potentially create a void that exacerbates the country’s existing violence.
Reports from Kenyan local media indicate that a man has been instructed to pay a fine of 850,000 shillings ($5,600; £4,400) as a result of divulging a friend’s alleged HIV status within a WhatsApp group.
The verdict was issued by the HIV and Aids Tribunal in Kenya, which underscored that an individual’s HIV status should not be unveiled to third parties without obtaining consent.
The individual who brought forth the complaint conveyed that due to the message disseminated in the WhatsApp group, comprising 170 members, he encountered discrimination. Subsequently, he is now engaged in counseling due to the emotional toll it inflicted.
He further stated that the accusation has led to strains within his marriage and disputes the revelation made within the WhatsApp group.
Additionally, he has been granted 3,000 Kenyan shillings as compensation for special damages.
The US dollar is frequently regarded as the world’s strongest currency.
According to a recent Legit.ng analysis, the US dollar is the most actively traded currency in terms of margin but not the strongest.
In a Forbes assessment, the Kuwaiti dinar was shown as the strongest currency.
Indian currency is the weakest in the world
As per reports, converting 2,000 units of Indian currency into US dollars has the potential to transform holders into instant millionaires.
Foreign currencies are consistently traded in pairs, such as when acquiring Nigerian naira in exchange for Ghanaian cedis.
Consequently, currencies are always valued in relation to another currency, known as the exchange rate.
Within the Middle East, some of the world’s strongest currencies are situated, gauged by their performance against the dollar.
The majority of currencies operate on a floating basis, akin to the Nigerian currency, signifying their value varies in response to shifts in demand and supply.
Certain currencies are pegged, signifying their value is linked to another currency, primarily the US dollar, and fixed at an agreed-upon rate.
Exchange rates exert influence over the expenses of goods and services in foreign currency. This dynamic signifies that if the naira weakens in comparison to the US dollar, the costs of goods and services would rise when expressed in naira terms.
Nigeria floats the naira
On June 14, 2023, the Nigerian government announced the free float of the country’s currency, the naira, leading to a massive fall in value.
Analysts say the naira has lost almost 80 percent of its value against the US dollar between June and August.
The country’s financial regulator, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), collapsed all the multiple exchange rate markets into the Investors and Exports (I&E) window.
The policy aims to unify the nation’s multiple exchange markets. Economic analysts say the move has proved counterproductive as the parallel market drifted farther away from the official window, creating an imbalance in the markets.
Naira bounces back against the dollar
However, in a twist of events, the Nigerian currency began to resurgence against the dollar after CBN promised to intervene. It gained about N95 in five days, leading to a massive loss to FX speculators.
It trades N739.52 to a dollar at the official market and N860 at the parallel market.
Here are the top cheapest currencies in the world:
Iranian Rial – IRR 1 INR = 516 IRR
The currency leads the pack of the cheapest currencies in the world.
According to reports, the currency’s fall was due to the Islamic revolution of 1979, followed by the withdrawal of foreign investors from the country.
The country’s nuclear programme war with Iraq played a prominent role in its financial distress.
Vietnamese Currency-VND- 1 INR = 284 VND
The Asian country followed a centralised economy and embarked on the part of forming a market economy.
The country’s currency is highly devalued.
Sierra Leonean Leone-SLL 1 INR = 278 SLL
The West African country’s currency is impacted by poverty and conflicts, which has led to its massive fall.
Also, the Ebola outbreak added to its troubles and constantly affected its population.
Lao or Laotian Kip -LAK 1 INR = 212 LAK
The currency is not devalued but has had a low rate since it was introduced in 1952, but its value has improved over the years, which could draw investors.
Indonesian Rupiah – IDR 1 INR = 179 IDR
The currency has not improved over the years and is mainly caused by decreasing foreign exchange reserves.
The country is reportedly heavily dependent on exports, with the fall of its commodities further devaluing its currency value.
The government has been petitioned by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to stop paying August salaries and allowances to striking teachers at the 46 Colleges of Education (CETAG).
In a letter to the Controller and Accountant General dated August 21st, GTEC stated, “We write at the instance of the Honourable Minister of Education, requesting you NOT to pay monthly salary and allowances for the month of August, 2023 to the Teaching Staff of all 46 Colleges of Education (CETAG).”
The directive added, “However, any arrears before August, 2023 should be validated and paid.”
Since August 1st, educators who are part of CETAG from various regions in the country have been engaged in a strike, primarily due to the government’s inability to put into action the agreed-upon benefits and employment terms.
The teachers are requesting the government to adhere to the Arbitral Award Orders issued by the National Labour Commission earlier this year.
Even though the Ministry of Finance has been alerted multiple times, the negotiated terms have not been implemented, leading to the ongoing labor strike.
Despite various attempts to persuade them to return to their classrooms, which have included legal warnings from the National Labour Commission, CETAG remains unwavering in its stance to continue the strike, insisting on the fulfillment of its demands.
Traders who were relocated from the Kumasi Central Market in the Ashanti regional metropolis have issued a threat to stage a protest against the government due to the halted progress of the market’s reconstruction project.
The traders expressed their distress, highlighting that the site is now becoming overgrown and infested with reptiles, which are gradually taking control of the area. This development is concerning, given that the market is situated in the heart of the regional capital.
Despite assurances from the government regarding the recommencement of construction after numerous appeals were made to the appropriate authorities, the traders are disheartened by the lack of progress.
Mr. Daniel Otuo Acheampong, the Director of Operations for the Combined Kumasi Central Market Traders Union, conveyed his disillusionment with the government due to unmet commitments. He further criticized the local Members of Parliament (MPs) from the region, questioning their silence on the matter.
He accused them of lacking the determination to advocate for the project’s resumption.
He said “Plans are underway by the traders to embark on a series of demonstrations starting next week to press home our demand for work to resume on the largest market in West Africa. We will continue to demonstrate until the project resumes and is completed. We do not understand why the project has stalled. All efforts to have it completed have proved futile.”
The Messrs Contracta Construction Limited in the UK is constructing the €248 million Kumasi Central Market Redevelopment project, which started in 2021 but has been put on hold since January 2023.
The project, which is located in the center of the regional capital, is getting overgrown and overrun by reptiles.
