TIG Post

Author: Amanda Cartey

  • IC Research upholds 1.9% – 2.9% real growth rate for Ghana

    IC Research upholds 1.9% – 2.9% real growth rate for Ghana

    The investment bank IC Securities’ research division, IC Research, has kept its prediction for Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth for 2023 in the range of 1.9% to 2.9%.

    It anticipates that the agriculture sector will expand as a result of continued momentum in the livestock and crops sub-sector, while ICT, transport & storage, and education will continue to support the expansion of the services sector.

    On the downside, it pointed out that “we expect aggressive fiscal consolidation in the second-half of 2023 to weigh on the public sector drivers of growth while the price sensitive trades, hospitality and industry sector remain constrained by cost pressures in 2023”.

    In the first quarter of 2023, Ghana’s overall real GDP growth exceeded expectations by registering a year-on-year expansion of 4.2%. This surpasses the consensus forecast of 2.6%.

    The remarkable growth was primarily driven by the services sector, which expanded by 10.1%, and the agriculture sector, which saw a growth rate of 4.8%.

    These positive performances outweighed the contractions observed in the price-sensitive industry sector, which experienced a decline of -3.2%.

    The combined strength of the services and agriculture sectors propelled the overall growth of the economy beyond initial projections.

    Services sector to falter in quarters ahead

    IC Research said the services sector outperformed expectations but is likely to falter in the quarters ahead.

    The services sector logged an impressive 10.1% year-on-year growth in the first quarter of 2023, on the back of jumbo growth rates in Public Administration & Defence (37.6%), Health & Social Work (31.6%), and Education (26.0%).

    There were also more private sector-led growth in ICT (18.9%), Finance & Insurance (8.6%), Transport & Storage (6.4%), as well as Real Estate services (5.1%).

    However, the price-sensitive Hospitality (-0.2% y/y) and Trade (-5.3% y/y) sub-sectors contracted in as a result of foreign exchange squeeze, removal of the benchmark discount policy at the ports, and utility tariff hikes since August 2022.

    “Overall, we remain bullish on growth in ICT and Transport & Storage in 2023 due to the ongoing digitalization within the public and private sectors as well as emerging private transport and logistics businesses. However, we are bearish on public sector-led sub-sectors and cautious on finance & insurance activities as financial institutions prioritize post debt exchange recapitalisation in place of profit growth”, IC Research stressed.

    Manufacturing sub-sector outlook remains bearish

    Furthermore, it said it remains bearish on the manufacturing sector outlook both from the perspective of a tighter operating environment and softening consumer demand.

    In addition to the FX pressures, “we expect the quarterly hikes in utility tariffs and the recent increase in excise duty to elevate the operating cost of manufacturing businesses. Despite the higher cost of operation, we believe distributors of consumer goods will be unable to fully pass on the cost implication of higher taxes and utility tariffs due to weak demand conditions”. Consequently, it foresee a contraction in profit margins, leading to weaker growth momentum for the manufacturing sector with negative spill over to the trade sector.

  • Jomoro MP calls for legal action against corporation that illegally demolished Osaagyefo Power barge

    Jomoro MP calls for legal action against corporation that illegally demolished Osaagyefo Power barge


    Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Member of Parliament for Jomoro Constituency, has called for the prosecution of the corporation responsible for the destruction of the Osaagyefo Power Barge in her constituency.

    The MP expressed her view that the actions of the private business Misag were illegal, as they removed 90% of the barge without following the necessary procedures.

    Affo-Toffey made this demand during a session in Parliament following queries raised by the Deputy Minister of Energy, William Owuraku Aidoo, regarding the condition of the Osaagyefo Barge.

    In response, the Deputy Minister informed the House that on November 16, 2025, the Ministry had instructed the Ghana National Petroleum Commission (GNPC) to assume ownership of the Power Barge.

    However, due to an ongoing illegal dispute, the GNPC was unable to undertake the necessary maintenance work during the arbitration process, resulting in the deterioration of the barge.

    “Upon receiving these letters, the GNPC visited the Barge sites and immediate communities and key government agencies to ascertain the condition of the barge. From the interactions from these communities, it was ascertained that the company had already commenced the removal of some parts”, the Deputy Minister told Parliament.

    Reacting to the development, the Jomoro MP said, “The Minister confirmed that a private company called Misag, without proper authorization and due processes, has significantly, dismantled the Osaagyefo Power Barge and sold off the components”.

    Affo-Toffey said, “What surprised me the most is that till today, there has not been any legal action taken against the company that did this illegal act, rather, the government is seeking to share the proceeds from the illegal sale of the power barge”.

    “As the MP for the area, I am demanding that the right thing would be done. The company that dismantled the 90% of the barge be brought to law”, the MP said.

    The Jomoro MP is also demanding an investigation into the dismantling and the sale of the bagre.

    “And also, I am demanding a full-scale of forensic audit into the disposal of the barge. I am also calling for the transparency of the barge”.

  • Government dismisses three Agenda 111 contractors’ appointments

    Government dismisses three Agenda 111 contractors’ appointments

    The government has decided to terminate the contracts of three contractors involved in the Agenda 111 hospital projects in the Ashanti region.

    These projects are located in Kunsu, Ahafo Ano South-West District; Manso Adubia, Amansie South District; and Nsuta, Sekyere Central District of the Ashanti Region.

    According to the Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, these contractors failed to meet the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) set for the projects.

    This announcement was made during a press briefing held at the Trede project site in the Atwima Kwanwoma District of the Ashanti region, where a hospital project is currently 62 percent complete.

    Mr. Nkrumah urged all contractors involved in the hospital projects to ensure they meet the KPIs to avoid facing contract termination as well.

    Additionally, the Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr. Nsiah Asare, reassured that the Agenda 111 projects would not be affected by IMF conditionalities.

    He also provided assurance to unemployed health workers, particularly nurses and doctors, that more job opportunities would be available when the projects are completed.

  • Davido has potential to generate earnings surpassing $20m in 2023 – Forbes

    Davido has potential to generate earnings surpassing $20m in 2023 – Forbes

    Multi-award-winning Nigerian artist Davido, known in real life as David Adeleke, better is expected to break earnings records once more in 2023, with Forbes estimating that he will earn more than $20 million.

    The multi-award-winning Nigerian artist derives his impressive income from a mix of royalties, brand partnerships, merchandise sales, and extremely lucrative tour appearances, according to Billionaires Africa.

    Davido was the star of the prestigious 30 Under 30 Africa Summit in Gaborone earlier this year after appearing on the cover of Forbes’ Under 30 Africa list. A record-breaking 2 billion people have listened to his music worldwide, cementing his position as Africa’s beat ambassador, thanks to his unmatched musical ability.

    His recently released fourth studio album, “Timeless,” has garnered a lot of positive reviews and tremendous digital success. With an astounding 133 million streams, including an impressive 43 million streams in the U.S. market alone, the album rocketed to the second position on Billboard’s World Album chart in just ten days of its release.

    As Davido promotes his newest album internationally, industry insiders anticipate that his earnings will rise even further in the future.

    Davido is not only a musical prodigy, but also a highly sought-after celebrity for endorsements. He has signed big deals with prestigious companies like Puma, Martell Cognac from Pernod Ricard, and smartphone maker, Infinix Mobile.

    Fans all over the world can relate to his music because it is a contemporary fusion of African and foreign influences.

    Aside from the music star’s impressive musical achievements, he takes part in charitable endeavors. His lighthearted request to his friends for birthday gifts and donations to be made to one of his bank accounts in honor of his birthday, resulted in him giving an unexpected $607,500 to various orphanages all over Nigeria in 2021.

    The renowned artiste comes from a family with significant political and commercial influence. Adedeji Adeleke, his father, established Pacific Holdings Limited in 1983, which has since grown into an industrial conglomerate that operates power plants to produce the majority of the electricity in West Africa.

    His grandfather also held the prestigious office of senator, and his uncle, Ademola Adeleke, currently serves as governor of Nigeria’s Osun State.

    Davido has cemented his position as a formidable global force, thanks to his over 2 billion streams and FIFA’s personal choice of him to lead the collaborative “Hayya Hayya (Better Together)” soundtrack for the 2022 World Cup.

  • One-year Farmer Support Activity worth $7m launched by USAID

    One-year Farmer Support Activity worth $7m launched by USAID

    The US government, in collaboration with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nations’ World Food Programme, has initiated a one-year program in Ghana to provide crucial assistance to farmers during the lean season.

    With a value of $7 million, the recently launched Farmer Support Activity aims to strengthen food security in the country.

    The Farmer Support Activity focuses on providing support and building the capacity of farmers, particularly those in the northern regions of Ghana. A total of 17,000 farming households in 17 districts across the Northern, North-East, Upper East, and Upper West regions will receive a cash transfer of $3,500 each.

    Kimberly Rosen, the Mission Director for USAID, emphasized that the cash transfers will be directly deposited into the mobile money accounts of small-scale farmers, ensuring accessibility and convenience. This method enables them to efficiently access the funds they need.

    “The cash transfer provided through this programme serves as a flexible tool that farmers can utilise to address their urgent needs. This flexibility empowers farmers to invest in their farms and purchase inputs, cover labour costs or attend to other important requirements. It is important to note that this programme is part of a broader commitment to support Ghana’s agricultural sector.”

    Through a multi-sectoral initiative that includes the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the National Identification Authority and MTN, the World Food Programme has identified, targeted and registered vulnerable smallholder farmers. According to WFP Representative and Country Director, Barbara Clemens, this is to ensure that these farmers do not compromise on quantity and quality.

    “Going into this lean season, this project seeks to identify and support them, so that they’re not consuming their inputs or making some negative coping choices like reducing the size of land for cultivation or buying less food for their households. We’re going to make sure that we’re there when the assistance is needed and is given to the right person so that they can increase their productivity,” she said.

    Deputy Agric Minister, Yaw Frimpong Addo urged the farmers to be prudent with the investment.

    “There are several households that couldn’t benefit from this programme, so I will call the beneficiaries, the lucky ones. You need to prove to the donors that the money is used for the right things. The team on this project have strong financial backgrounds and will monitor so farmers need to be accountable,” he stated

    The Farmer Support Activity will run till March 2024.

  • Japan reiterates support for development of Ghana’s infrastructure

    Japan reiterates support for development of Ghana’s infrastructure

    Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Hisanobu Mochizuki, has reiterated Japan’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ghana’s efforts in advancing its socio-economic and infrastructure development.

    The ambassador emphasized that Ghana occupies a strategically significant position in the West Africa Growth Ring Corridor Development, which aims to foster enhanced connectivity and stimulate economic activities within the sub-region. Japan recognizes the importance of quality infrastructure in achieving these objectives and remains dedicated to assisting Ghana in this endeavor.

    “Japan as a nation is aware of the value of creating a solid infrastructure base and the role it can play in boosting and stimulating economies.

    “This strengthens our resolve to help our colleagues in Africa develop their infrastructure to transform their economies,” the Ambassador assured.

    During the commissioning ceremony of the Assin-Fosu to Assin-Praso phase two road project in the Assin North District of the Central Region, Mr. Hisanobu Mochizuki, the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, conveyed a statement on his behalf, underscoring Japan’s support for Ghana’s infrastructure development.

    The construction of the 31.2 km national trunk road (N8) was made possible through a grant from the Japanese government and executed by Shimizu Dai Nippon Joint Ventures, a prominent Japanese Construction Firm.

    Mr. Mochizuki emphasized that the Japanese government’s commitment to quality infrastructure development was aimed at bolstering the foundation of Ghana’s industrial growth, with a focus on sectors such as agriculture, health, and human resource development.

    He highlighted the significance of transportation infrastructure in driving economic growth, attracting business and investment in Ghana. Without adequate transportation networks, he pointed out that the value of products and services would be diminished.

    Furthermore, Mr. Mochizuki expressed his belief that improving transportation connectivity through well-constructed roads would open up economic opportunities for underserved communities and promote inclusive economic growth.

    He also mentioned that Japan’s commitment to development assistance was further strengthened by a recent visit to Ghana by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, with the aim of deepening bilateral relations and fostering mutual gains between the two countries.

    The Japanese Government attached great significance to the promotion of business and investment in Ghana as a leading economic powerhouse in West Africa.
    “For instance, it is impossible to underline enough how strategically located this N8 highway is.

    “I am confident that the massive opportunities that these rehabilitation efforts of the N8 would bring to Ghana will be realized because it is a crucial corridor for the transportation of essential export commodities,” the Ambassador noted.

    To the people in the area, he said the road would undoubtedly reduce traffic, particularly on market days, and create more commercial opportunities in the surrounding communities.
    Notwithstanding, he recognized the contributions of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for being a key conduit for the Japanese government’s strategic and all-encompassing approach to supporting Ghana’s infrastructure development.

    Through JICA, Ghana has benefited from infrastructure projects, including the high-quality Phase One of the Tema Motorway roundabout project officially opened by President Akufo-Addo in 2020.

    The sod-cutting by the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu  Bawumia for the commencement of Phase Two of the project which is scheduled for completion in December 2024.

    Again, through the efforts of JICA, he said the Phase One Project of the NS between Assin-Praso and Asante-Bekwai was completed in December 2013.

  • Amidu criticizes Akufo-Addo on his “Quayson jail bound” comment

    At a recent campaign event in Assin North, former Special Prosecutor, Martin A. B. K. Amidu, criticized President Akufo-Addo of acting autocratically.

    Akufo-Addo on June 25, 2023 told party faithful that they should reject the National Democratic Congress’ parliamentary candidate James Gyakye Quayson because he was a potential prisoner even if he won the June 27 primary.

    At the end of the vote, Gyakye Quayson, polled 57.56% of the total valid votes cast to be returned Member of Parliament-elect beating New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Charles Opoku, who secured 42.15% of the votes.

    Amidu in a June 28 congratulatory message to the NDC and its candidate pointed out that Akufo-Addo had shamefully acted by his pronouncements and had perjured his oath of office.

    “Shamefully, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the President of Ghana for the time being, jumped into the affray to undermine the decisions of the Courts and the rule of law by the autocratic statement he delivered at the rally in the Assin North on 25 June 2023.

    “The President who has sworn a constitutional oath to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana” perjured his oath, betrayed the Republic of Ghana, and created the impression that the weaponization of criminal justice administration as an instrument of a partisan political democratic representative contest by his Attorney-General was upon his express instructions.”

    He continued: “Now is the time for the Nana Akufo-Addo to do the decent thing in beating a retreat by instructing his Attorney-General to stop the weaponization of criminal justice administration as an instrument of political persecution of opponents of the NPP by obeying the voice of the people and democracy with a nolle prosequi to undo the abuse of the Constitution they set in motion to unconstitutionally aid them at the by-election.

    Amidu, who is a staunch advocate for constitutionalism and the rule of law, hailed the NDC’s victory in the by-election to the strength and efficacy of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

    He commended the NDC for its success and lauded the individuals who prioritized the national interest, defended the Constitution, and supported democracy and the rule of law.

    “The NDC must be congratulated by all patriotic persons who act apolitically in the national interest and believe in the defence of the Constitution and in the sustenance of democracy and the rule of law in Ghana.

    “I take the view that Constitutionalism won in the Supreme Court, the Attorney-General failed woefully in weaponizing the administration of criminal justice, while democracy and the rule of law won massively at the Assin North by-elections,” the statement read.

    The former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu went on to criticize the actions of the Attorney-General describing him as the loser in the battle between constitutionalism, democracy, and the rule of law.

    According to Amidu, the Attorney-General attempted to weaponize the criminal justice administration to undermine both the Supreme Court’s decision and the representative democratic process during the Assin North by-election.

    He accused the Attorney-General of acting in a partisan manner and questioned President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s involvement in undermining the decisions of the courts and the rule of law.

    “The loser in this interaction between constitutionalism, democracy, and rule of law is the Attorney-General whose office is guaranteed and entrenched under Chapter 8 in Article 88 of the 1992 Constitution to ensure his independence and impartiality in criminal justice administration as it affects citizens and the State.

    “My long association with Court House Governance for almost two decades convinces me that Attorney-General tried weaponizing the instrument of criminal justice administration entrusted to his custody by Article 88 (3) and (4) of the 1992 Constitution to undermine first, the decision of the Supreme Court, and secondly, the representative democratic process guaranteed under the Constitution at the Assin North by-election,” he continued.

    Martin Amidu praised the people of the Assin North constituency for their refusal to be swayed by the ruling NPP and their commitment to upholding their rights.

    “The people of Assin North have proven that the majority of patriotic Ghanaians in the constituency understand their rights and cannot be bought by incumbency largesse. The people of Assin North have also sent a clear signal to all patriots in Ghana that truth must triumph over lies and deception,” he added.

  • I often persuaded my late husband to resign from his position as vice president – Matilda Amissah-Arthur

    I often persuaded my late husband to resign from his position as vice president – Matilda Amissah-Arthur

    Wife of the late Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur has revealed that she repeatedly suggested to her husband that he step down from the office of Vice President of the Republic.

    Speaking in an interview with Joy News on June 29, 2023, Matilda Amissah Arthur explained that she had often asked him to step down from his position but on a second thought she recognized the importance of his voice within the government and the potential vacuum that his resignation would create.

    Matilda stated, “Many times, many times but after I said that (he should resign) I realized that if he goes out, who will say the kind of things he says, so he should be there even if he is not listened to, say it and make a difference.

    “I believe that if you are the only person who is doing the right thing in a place, not just politics, anywhere and you are the only person, don’t be discouraged, stay there and do the right thing, say the right thing, make a difference and it will impact, even if it has an impact on one person, you have done your job.”

    According to her, she firmly believed that Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur’s presence in the government was necessary to advocate for the right causes and ensure the country was on the right track.

    Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur served as the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana to John Dramani Mahama from 2012 to 2016. His untimely death in 2018 was a great loss to the country, and his late wife’s revelation provides a deeper understanding of his commitment to making a positive impact during his time in office.

  • Deputy Minister publicly wrestles an NDC MP on Tv

    Deputy Minister publicly wrestles an NDC MP on Tv

    On June 29 during an episode of Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana discussing, the fallout from the Assin North by-election, two members of parliament got into an altercation.

    The two were John Ntim Fordjour, MP for Assin South and Kofi Adams of Buem.

    Kofi Adams’ claim that Ntim Fordjour had been hooted at before and during the June 27 by-election by National Democratic Congress faithful was the trigger that left his colleague MP and Deputy Minister to issue a stern reaction.

    Adams said in an area of the constituency, Ningo Gangan, the deputy minister was hooted at “not just on day of election but the day before when he peddled falsehood on a radio programme.”

    The Assin South MP hit back almost immediately, “I take strong exception to that, please respect yourself, rise above that,” he charged pointing a finger at Kofi Adams.

    The Buem MP, however, continued: “At the end of the day, the good people of Assin North spoke.” He added that with the victory at Assin North, the two other Assin constituencies – Central and South – will see a new breath.

    Ntim-Fordjour fired a response to that claim, “come for it (the seat),” he jabbed before admonishing Adams to rather focus on securing his seat.

    Watch the exchange below:

    According to the Electoral Commission’s announcement, James Gyakye Quayson garnered a total of 17,245 votes, representing 57.56% of the total votes cast.

    His closest contender, Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), received 12,630 votes, accounting for 42.15% of the votes.

    Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party Ghana (LPG) secured 87 votes, which represented 0.29% of the overall tally.

    The by-election in Assin North was held to fill the parliamentary seat left vacant following a legal battle that questioned Quayson’s eligibility to hold office due to dual citizenship concerns.

  • Sarkodie’s ‘attack’ on Yvonne Nelson draws criticism from Mahama’s assistant

    Sarkodie’s ‘attack’ on Yvonne Nelson draws criticism from Mahama’s assistant

    An adviser to former president John Dramani Mahama, Joyce Bawah-Mogtari, has spoken out about alarming changes in Ghanaian society regarding how some people treat women.

    She stated in a June 29 tweet that it was disturbing that such people engage in these acts in all facets of everyday life, doing so without seeing any wrong with it.

    “Funny thing is that we still have some people who exhibit misogynistic attitudes, dominant chauvinism and patriarchy without making any bones about it.

    “In our society, in schools, in politics, the church, the lyrics of our songs, the work place etc.” her tweet read.

    One of the most topical issues in Ghana today has to do with the trending back and forth between actress and movie producer now author, Yvonne Nelson and musician Sarkodie.

    Yvonne Nelson in her book ‘I am not Yvonne Nelson,’ recounted a relationship she had with the musician in 2010, which relationship led to a pregnancy she was forced to abort because Sarkodie was not ready to be a father.

    In his riposte, the musician released a track ‘Try Me’ earlier this week stating his side of the story but his use of certain words and terminologies was seen as sexist.

    Yvonne Nelson responded to it by calling on Sarkodie to ‘respect womanhood’ and not attenpt to diminish the pain a young lady experienced; which comment also drew critique vis-a-vis portions of Yvonne’s book and what she said of her mother.

    See her tweet below:

  • Kennedy Agyapong spotted handing over ‘fat’ envelope to Adwoa Safo in Parliament

    Kennedy Agyapong spotted handing over ‘fat’ envelope to Adwoa Safo in Parliament

    A captivating video has recently surfaced on social media, showcasing a moment between Kennedy Agyapong, a prominent Member of Parliament (MP) and a hopeful New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, and Sarah Adwoa Safo, the respected MP for Dome Kwabenya. The intriguing one-minute-thirty-second clip, shared by Oyerapa TV/FM, has captivated users and triggered a flurry of discussions online.

    In the video, the distinguished Kennedy Agyapong, who also serves as the MP for Assin Central, is seen approaching Adwoa Safo as she gracefully enters the parliamentary chamber for her official duties. A sense of anticipation fills the air as Kennedy Agyapong discreetly hands a pristine white envelope to Adwoa Safo, initiating an intriguing exchange.

    Adwoa Safo, taken aback by the unexpected gesture, delicately taps Kennedy Agyapong and engages in a brief conversation with him. With grace and poise, she carefully places the envelope inside her bag, leaving onlookers wondering about its contents.

    Social media has been ablaze with discussions surrounding this enigmatic exchange, with speculations swirling about the envelope’s significance. Observers have noted the envelope’s seemingly substantial size, leading to conjecture that it may have contained a significant sum of money.

    Yet, the true purpose behind Kennedy Agyapong’s gesture and the contents concealed within the envelope remain shrouded in mystery, allowing room for elegant speculation and contemplation.

    In light of Kennedy Agyapong and Adwoa Safo’s known connection, as they share the joy of parenthood with at least two children, some have pondered whether the envelope might have contained financial support for their beloved offspring. However, it is important to note that these assumptions remain unconfirmed.

    The video has undoubtedly captivated the attention of discerning individuals, drawing them into an intriguing web of curiosity and speculation. As the whispers and theories continue to circulate, only time will reveal the true nature of this intriguing gesture between two esteemed Members of Parliament.

    Watch the video below

    https://twitter.com/oyerepaofficial/status/1674389082711945218?s=20
  • Nanterre disputes get worse as a structure is set on fire

    Nanterre disputes get worse as a structure is set on fire

    Police skirmishes in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris where Nahel, 17, was tragically shot by officers, appear to be getting worse.

    Various French outlets are carrying footage of a huge fire engulfing the ground floor of a building, where a bank is located and thick black smoke is billowing out.

    Firefighters are on the scene at the Crédit Mutuel bank, local media reports, and they’re trying to rescue people who are understood to be in the flats above.

    One reporter tells France 24 the situation has worsened in the last 10 minutes or so. “Around 200 people are here. Everyone is looking on shocked and hoping nothing awful happens,” the journalist says, adding that the fire grew “really quickly”.

    We’ll bring you an image of the scene as soon as we get one.

  • IMF board completes study of Ukraine loan, allowing $890m pullout

    IMF board completes study of Ukraine loan, allowing $890m pullout

    The first evaluation of Ukraine’s $15.6 billion loan program by the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund is now complete, enabling Kyiv to promptly withdraw $890 million for budget support.

    The board’s approval brings Ukraine’s withdrawals under the programme launched on March 31 to about $3.6bn so far.

    The IMF said Ukrainian authorities have made “strong progress” towards meeting reform commitments under “challenging conditions,” meeting quantitative performance criteria through April and structural benchmarks through the end of June.

  • Left-wing leader demands firearms laws repealed

    Left-wing leader demands firearms laws repealed

    Following the murder of Nahel, a French left-wing lawmaker has demanded that France’s gun laws be overturned.

    Mathilde Panot, president of the left-wing political party La France Insoumise (France Unbowed), criticises the government for sending anti-terror police into working class areas and says President Emmanuel Macron “knows only repression”.

    Writing on Twitter, she adds the government must repeal the law’s “licence to kill” and rebuild the police from the ground up.

    The 2017 law, which allows police to shoot if a driver ignores orders to stop under some circumstances, is being widely blamed for the teenager’s death.

  • Spain to assume EU leadership after PM’s visit to Ukraine

    Spain to assume EU leadership after PM’s visit to Ukraine

    Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will travel to Kiev this weekend to demonstrate the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine as Spain assumes the rotating EU chair, according to authorities.

    Sanchez “will kick off the EU presidency on Saturday, July 1, in Ukraine … to demonstrate with his presence the unfaltering European Union support” to the country, said a statement from his office.

    The announcement was made as Sanchez attended an EU summit in Brussels, during which Zelenskyy, participating via videolink, confirmed the visit.

  • Authorities reportedly prepared for bloodshed in ‘coming nights’ – reports

    Authorities reportedly prepared for bloodshed in ‘coming nights’ – reports

    Reports say French police are preparing for more violent protests around the nation.

    The AFP news agency reports that an internal security note says the “coming nights” are expected “to be the theatre of urban violence” – with “actions targeted at the forces of order and the symbols of the state”.

    We already know that Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has arranged for 40,000 police officers to be deployed across France tonight, in order to deal with any further unrest.

  • Ukraine requests invitation from NATO at Vilnius meeting

    Ukraine requests invitation from NATO at Vilnius meeting

    Ukraine is seeking an invitation to initiate the process of joining NATO at the upcoming summit of the military alliance next month. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s aide has stated that if the leaders do not demonstrate “courage,” the president will not attend the summit.

    Chief diplomatic adviser Ihor Zhovkva told Reuters that Kyiv wanted the July 11-12 NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania to deliver a response to the application for NATO membership that Ukraine filed on September 30, 2022.

    “This application is now on the tables of the leaders of NATO allies. The Vilnius summit would be a very good start to respond to this application. And by respond, we mean invitation for membership, which is only the first stage,” he said.

    In an interview in the heavily guarded president’s office in Kyiv, the Zelenskyy aide said “What we are asking for is to start the procedure,” and banged on the table at one point to drive his point home.

  • Greta Thunberg calls response to dam disaster “ecocide” during Kyiv visit

    Greta Thunberg calls response to dam disaster “ecocide” during Kyiv visit

    A Swedish climate activist, Greta Thunberg visited Kiev to highlight the environmental harm resulting from the conflict in Ukraine and to criticize the international response to the massive hydropower Kakhovka dam’s collapse on June 6.

    “I do not think that the world reaction to this ecocide was enough,” said Thunberg, who was in Kyiv for the inaugural meeting of a new environmental group that also includes senior European political figures.

    “We have to talk louder about it, we have to raise awareness about what is going on,” she said, according to a Ukrainian translation of her comments.

    The group is tasked with assessing the damage to Ukraine’s environment and developing mechanisms to hold Russia accountable, said Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian presidential staff and co-chair of the group along with former Swedish Deputy Prime Minister Margot Wallstrom.

  • Russian leadership change is not our goal – German chancellor

    Russian leadership change is not our goal – German chancellor

    Germany is not seeking a change of government in Russia, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has said, stressing his support for Baltic countries and Poland.

    Scholz spoke after arriving at a two-day European Union summit in Brussels.

    “Our goal here is not a change of government, a regime change in Russia,” Scholz said, adding that Germany is not party to what is happening in Russia.

    “Every attack on NATO territory is a matter to which we have to respond collectively,” Scholz said, stressing his support for the countries concerned.

  • No immediate plans regarding provision of ATACM missiles to Ukraine – Pentagon says

    No immediate plans regarding provision of ATACM missiles to Ukraine – Pentagon says

    In response to a recent report by the Wall Street Journal suggesting that Washington was nearing the provision of ATACM long-range missiles to Kyiv, the Pentagon has stated that it is not currently aware of any imminent decision regarding this matter.

    Kyiv has long sought the US Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, arguing the missiles would help them strike Russian forces far behind the front lines.

    “I don’t have anything to announce regarding ATACMs and certainly I’m not aware of any imminent decisions as it relates to ATACMs,” Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder told a press briefing.

  • Ukraine War Ecology Group formed as Zelenskyy met Thunberg

    Ukraine War Ecology Group formed as Zelenskyy met Thunberg

    Greta Thunberg from Sweden and other notable European leaders have met with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv to discuss setting up a working group to remedy the ecological damage caused by the 16-month Russian incursion.

    The working group on the environment includes Thunberg, former Swedish Deputy Prime Minister Margot Wallström, European Parliament Vice President Heidi Hautala, and former Irish President Mary Robinson.

    Zelenskyy said forming the group is “a very important signal of supporting Ukraine. It’s really important, we need your professional help”.

    Thunberg said Russian forces “are deliberately targeting the environment and people’s livelihoods and homes. And therefore also destroying lives. Because this is after all a matter of people.”

  • 74 people slain in Nigeria’s 2023 elections slain – European Union

    74 people slain in Nigeria’s 2023 elections slain – European Union

    The European Union has debunked claims that the Nigerian 2023 election was free and fair, saying the elections were marred by violence and bloodshed, with at least 74 persons killed in 101 violent incidents.

    This was stated in the EU’s final report titled “Election Observation Mission Nigeria 2023.”

    “The EU EOM recorded 101 violent incidents during the campaign, including at least 74 fatalities,” the EU reported.

    “EU EOM observers received reports of and saw the widespread distribution of goods and vote buying. Several state agencies tried to tackle corrupt practices, yet their results were modest. This is evidencing that political will, enhanced institutional capacity, and robust enforcement synergy are needed to ensure transparency and genuine accountability,” the report stated.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on March 1, declared President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, winner of the February 25th presidential election.

    However, Tinubu’s victory has been rejected by leading opposition figures, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.

    Both have challenged Tinubu’s victory before the presidential election petition court (PEPC).

  • Wagner business separate as Russia proceed work in Central African Republic – Kremlin

    Wagner business separate as Russia proceed work in Central African Republic – Kremlin

    The Central African Republic’s armed forces will continue to get assistance from Russian experts, but the Wagner Group’s actions there are its own, distinct operations, according to the Kremlin.

    The Kremlin statement on Wednesday concerns a country with which Russia has had close ties with in recent years. Hundreds of Russian operatives, including many from the Wagner Group, have been helping its government fight rebel uprisings against President Faustin-Archange Touadera since 2018.

    And Touadera is scheduled to attend the second Russia-Africa Summit in St Petersburg in July.

    But Wagner’s fate is uncertain after its abortive mutiny in Russia on Saturday.

    This week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told state broadcaster Russia Today that Wagner’s work in CAR “as instructors … will continue” and that the weekend’s events would not impact relations between Moscow and its partners and allies.

    Meanwhile, Bangui has remained upbeat about the situation with minister and presidential adviser Fidèle Gouandjika telling the Agence France-Presse news agency that what the country had in place was “a defence deal with Russia and not Wagner. … Moscow has subcontracted to Wagner, and if Russia doesn’t agree, it will send us a new contingent.”

    The mercenary group has been accused of multiple human rights abuses in CAR, Burkina Faso and Mali.

    And no, there are questions about whether the group could still be seen as a stabilising force for tackling armed groups after its mutiny in Russia.

    “They will be seen as too unstable and potentially a threat to the leadership in those countries,” Michael Mulroy, a former senior Pentagon official, told the Reuters news agency.

    “They almost started a coup in their own [country].”

  • Sunak suffers as UK court declares Rwanda deportation plot illegal

    Sunak suffers as UK court declares Rwanda deportation plot illegal

    A British judge has indicated that Rwanda cannot be regarded as a safe third country, hence the government‘s contentious plan to deport asylum applicants there is unconstitutional.

    In a major setback for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who has pledged to deter people from arriving across the Channel in small boats, three Court of Appeal judges on Thursday said the “removal of asylum seekers to Rwanda” would be “unlawful”.

    “The deficiencies in the asylum system in Rwanda are such that there are substantial grounds for believing that there is a real risk that persons sent to Rwanda will be returned to their home countries where they face persecution or other inhumane treatment,” judge Ian Burnett said, but added that he, himself, disagreed with the other two judges on this point.

    The United Kingdom government has been planning to deport asylum seekers to the East African country as part of a 120 million pound ($148m) deal to deter people from crossing the English Channel from France in small boats.

    Asylum Aid director Alison Pickup said many of her clients were breathing a sigh of relief.

    “Some of them have experienced torture, they’ve had very traumatic journeys, and have been waiting for over a year to find out if they will be able to make a case in the UK – or if they will be sent to Rwanda, a country they know nothing about,” Pickup told Al Jazeera.

    She added that the ruling will “hopefully give them that reassurance of safety”.

    Sunak under pressure

    As well as fighting against criticism from his own right-wing party and the public on migrant and refugee arrivals, Sunak is dealing with stubbornly high inflation and a cost-of-living crisis.

    Sunak made “stop the boats” one of his priorities and hopes a fall in arrivals might help his Conservative Party pull off a win at the next national election.

    The Rwanda plan was announced in April last year, but the first deportation flight was blocked by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), which imposed an injunction preventing any deportations until the conclusion of legal action in Britain.

    In December, the High Court ruled the policy was lawful, but that decision was challenged by asylum seekers from several countries, along with human rights organisations, who blasted the plan as “cruel”, “inhumane” and “neo-colonial”.

    Home Secretary Suella Braverman in April said Rwanda was a safe country for the resettlement of asylum seekers but declined to set any deadline for the first deportations there.

    The government has put forward a series of bills aimed at curbing migration that have been strongly criticised by civil society.

    In March, it proposed a contentious new law that would allow authorities to deport people arriving on its shores via small boats across the English Channel that divides the island from France.

    Several charities and human rights groups criticised the plan – known as the Illegal Migration Bill – saying it criminalises the efforts of thousands of genuine refugees.

    More than 45,000 people entered by crossing the channel in 2022, according to government figures – a jump of more than 17,000 from the previous year’s record.

  • Tornado in South Africa kills 4, displaces 1

    Tornado in South Africa kills 4, displaces 1

    Authorities have reported on Thursday that four persons had perished in the southeast province of KwaZulu-Natal of South Africa after it was struck by a tornado and torrential rain.

    Powerful winds and rainfall damaged roads and flooded houses and sewer systems, followed by a tornado that struck north of the port city of Durban on Tuesday.

    “Regrettably, so far four people have been confirmed to have lost their lives,” the province’s disaster management department said in a statement.

    Three people died in Durban and a fourth in wider KwaZulu-Natal, it said, adding that a fifth person was missing and more than 150 were homeless.

    Local daily News 24 reported Nonala Ndlovu, a spokesperson for the provincial department of cooperative governance, as saying that public infrastructure, including sewage systems, has also been damaged.

    The rainy season in KwaZulu-Natal usually runs from November to March, and exceptional rainfall at this time of year is unusual, it said.

    “We are experiencing firsthand the true effects of climate change during the winter season,” the department said.

    In April 2022, the province was hit by the worst floods in living memory, suffering the loss of more than 400 lives in Durban and surrounding areas.

    Experts have warned that floods and other extreme weather events are becoming more powerful and frequent as the world gets warmer, due to climate change.

  • Nigeria’s 2023 election weakened voter confidence – EU observers

    Nigeria’s 2023 election weakened voter confidence – EU observers

    The European Union observers stated in a final assessment seen by Reuters news agency on Wednesday that the Nigerian elections held early this year were hampered by issues that decreased public faith in electoral procedures and that reforms to increase transparency and accountability are needed.

    President Bola Tinubu won the disputed February election, with 37 percent of the vote. The result is being challenged in court by his two main rivals, the People’s Democratic Party’s Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.

    There were multiple reports of voter intimidation by supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress and results were barely uploaded on a new electronic portal introduced to improve transparency, in real-time.

    The EU mission said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should improve in six priority areas, including removing ambiguities in electoral law, ensuring the real-time publication of and access to election results and clamping down on electoral offences.

    “Shortcomings in law and electoral administration hindered the conduct of well-run and inclusive elections and damaged trust in INEC,” said the report.

    “A lack of transparency and operational failures reduced trust in the process and challenged the right to vote.”

    The February presidential vote was marked by the lowest voter turnout since the end of military rule in 1999.

    An INEC spokesman told local TV that the EU mission report was “unfair”, adding that INEC’s failure to upload presidential election results on time was caused by a glitch in its system.

  • Government urged to support companies to produce degreasing materials locally

    Government urged to support companies to produce degreasing materials locally

    The government must support companies in the country to produce degreasing materials for oil cleaning services for the downstream petroleum sector locally, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bidi Group of Companies, Mr Benjamin Armstrong has said.

    That, he said, would help reduce the importation of such products into the country and help create jobs for the youth

    Mr Armstrong made the call in Accra on Friday during the launch of Bioblast disinfectant and heavy duty cleaner for the health, food and transport sector.

    The two cleaning products which are produced from natural and biodegradable products such as sea water are meant to reduce the importation of cleaning products particularly for the oil and gas sector, into the country.

    Mr Armstrong explained that most of the cleaning materials which were used to clean the slurdge in the bulk storage tanks of oil marketing companies were imported into the country, putting pressure on the local currency.

    He said the demand for degreasing materials for cleaning in the downstream petroleum sector was huge but there were no local companies producing such products in the country.

    Mr Armstrong said Bidi Group, oil cleaning company, had been licensed by the National Petroleum Authority to provide bulk storage tank cleaning services for oil marketing companies in Ghana and served companies such as Puma and Blue Ocean.

    Mr Armstrong said chemical-based cleaning materials were not allowed to be used in the cleaning of bulk storage fuel tanks.

    “In cleaning the bulk storage tanks of Puma and Blue Ocean we had a lot of experience and this lead us to search for the Bioplast environmental friendly degreaser for oil and marketing companies,” he stated.

    A Bioplast Consultant from the U.S.A, Mr Clark Experance, who was the guest of honour, said the products had come an opportune time when the country was producing oil locally.

  • Fidelity and First National Banks develop special arrangements over suspension of Forex license

    Fidelity and First National Banks develop special arrangements over suspension of Forex license

    First National and Fidelity Banks have announced the creation of unique arrangements with partner banks in response to the Bank of Ghana (BoG) temporarily suspending forex licenses due to contraventions of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market Conduct Guidelines.

    The forex licenses of Fidelity Bank Ghana Limited and First National Bank Ghana Limited were suspended temporarily by the BoG, following their breach of some sections of the Ghana Interbank Forex Market Conduct rules.

    BoG also fined the two banks, a combined 1000 penalty points each.

    The introduced arrangements will enable the banks to initiate and complete foreign exchange deals for their clients, ensuring continuity and convenience throughout this period of suspension.

    In separate statements, the banks reassured their customers of their proactive efforts to swiftly resolve the matter and restore normal operations.

    They also expressed their commitment to working amicably with the Bank of Ghana to have their forex licenses reinstated.

  • Investors of GIPC urged to be optimistic about Ghana’s economy

    Investors of GIPC urged to be optimistic about Ghana’s economy

    Businesses and investors are being urged to have hope that Ghana’s economy will recover by Yaw Amoateng Afriyie, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre.

    He stated, government has initiated steps to ensure the current economic crisis is resolved.

    According to him, the political environment and peace in the country should still attract the interest of investors to see Ghana as the destination for investment.

    ‘’Ghana has consistently been ranked as the safest place in the sub-region and the second most peaceful country in Africa. This means, in the midst of volatile region, Ghana is the beacon of hope for investors.’’

    Speaking at the second edition of the Financial Economic Seminar, Mr. Afriyie indicated, the focus of GIPC post covid-19 and Russia-Ukraine war is to position the country to attract direct foreign investment to help restore the economy.

    He stressed the need for investors to look at the vast opportunities in the country especially in the area of agriculture and the manufacturing sectors among others.

    ‘’We in GIPC view our current state of affairs with optimism and maintain that there is no better place to do business than here in Ghana because we see prospect for global and local businesses to benefit’’.

    The second edition of the Financial Economic Seminar was put together to deliberate on impact of state policies on trade and industries.

    It brought together experts from the banking sector, trade and industry as well as academia.

  • Ugandan rangers construct a’mountain’ out of animal traps

    Ugandan rangers construct a’mountain’ out of animal traps

    Over the course of a year, park rangers in Uganda‘s Murchison Falls national park accumulated 12 tonnes of traps, which they piled high and dubbed “snare mountain.”

    They’re hoping to highlight the devastation to local wildlife by poachers who use these snares to trap lions, elephants and hippos among others.

    “Over the past 10 years, we’ve removed about 47 tonnes of snares and bear traps,” says Michael Keigwin, the founder of the Uganda Conservation Foundation charity, as reported by the Guardian newspaper.

    There is talk of a poaching crisis fuelled by Uganda’s worsening economy after strict Covid-19 lockdowns, and the charity estimates that more than 60% of the national park’s hippos have been killed in the past few years for their meat and the ivory in their teeth.

  • Extended fighting in Sudan troubling – Ethiopia

    Extended fighting in Sudan troubling – Ethiopia

    As refugees continue to pour across its border in large numbers, Ethiopia says it is concerned about the unrest spreading outside of Sudan’s capital city of Khartoum.

    There was now “worrying” fighting involving a rebel group in South Kordofan state, Ethiopia’s foreign ministry spokesperson Meles Alem.

    According to the UN, more than 50,000 people have crossed borders into Ethiopia since the conflict began in April between the Sudan’s army and the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

    Last week, the army accused SPLM-North, a powerful rebel group with ties in neighbouring South Sudan and that controls areas in the South Kordofan state, of launching attacks.

    With tensions escalating around the state’s capital Kadugli, many have fled the state. Violence has also been reported in Blue Nile state bordering Ethiopia.

    The UN had said the the recent violence in Kurmuk locality of the Blue Nile was gravely concerning.

    Mr Meles also mentioned the clashes in West Darfur, where the conflict has inflamed already fraught ethnic tensions between Arab and African communities similar to the violence that erupted two decades ago.

  • Fire outbreak amid fighting in Sudan’s Darfur region

    Fire outbreak amid fighting in Sudan’s Darfur region

    As battle between the Sudanese army forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues, evidence of major damage in another area of the West Darfur region of Sudan has emerged.

    Nasa data from 27 June shows what appear to be a number of fires concentrated in the area of Murnei, about 80km (50 miles) south of the regional capital of El Geneina, which itself suffered extensive damage in mid-May.

    We found satellite images showing the damage in Murnei occurred between 26 June and 28 June, with an image from yesterday showing smoke still visible at one location.

    The heat signatures earlier in the week were picked up by Nasa’s Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS). It’s not clear exactly which buildings might be burning, as there’s little information coming out of that area.

    It is the latest to suffer destruction from the conflict in the wider Darfur area, which has seen particularly intense fighting in recent weeks.

    Tens of thousands of civilians have fled across the border into Chad, since the fighting began.

  • Mozambique to set up new schools close to distant mountain range

    Mozambique to set up new schools close to distant mountain range

    Six schools were built by the Gorongosa National Park in central Mozambique with an investment of more than $1 million (£800,000).

    These schools will house pupils who attend school in the area’s mountain range.

    The administrator of the conservation area, Pedro Muagura, says that this is an initiative that brings together several partners, aiming to improve access to basic services for the local community.

    The project includes the construction of laboratories, sports fields and houses for teachers.

    The park, one of Mozambique’s famous conservation areas, was, for many years, badly affected by a rebel conflict.

    Most of its wildlife, decimated during the civil war, has been restored thanks to an investment from the US-based Greg Carr Foundation.

  • Ethiopia asks to join the Brics group of developing nations

    Ethiopia asks to join the Brics group of developing nations

    Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Meles Alem, has formally sought to join the Brics alliance and is “hoping for a positive response”.

    Brics – which is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – is seen by some as an alternative to the G7 group of developed nations.

    Ethiopia is one of the biggest economies in Africa and has enjoyed an increase in trade with China and India among others, but its economy has recently been ravaged by war and drought.

    Earlier this month, the Brics group said they had received requests from dozens of countries, including a few African states, that wished to join the club of emerging economies.

    Brics countries have a combined population of more than 3.2 billion people, making up about 40% of the world’s roughly eight billion people.

  • Mali: 13 individuals killed by Islamists during Eid celebrations

    Mali: 13 individuals killed by Islamists during Eid celebrations

    Jihadists have claimed the lives of a minimum of 13 innocent civilians in southeastern Mali.

    The attack occurred in Gao province during the Eid celebrations, and while it remains uncertain if the timing was intentional, several individuals were also wounded in the incident.

    This assault took place on Wednesday, shortly before a vote scheduled for Friday at the UN Security Council, where Mali’s request for the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers from the country is anticipated to be approved.

    A draft resolution drawn up by France suggests that all personnel are withdrawn within six months.

    The withdrawal of the mission, known as Minusma, would come after years of tensions between the UN and Mali’s military junta.

    Analysts fear that the security situation could deteriorate, leaving the Russian mercenary group Wagner to combat Islamist militants who control large parts of the country.

    Yet journalist Mohamed Golfa in the capital, Bamako, tells the BBC that many in Mali agree with the transitional government that the UN peacekeepers aren’t doing a good enough job.

  • UK’s plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda deemed unlawful

    UK’s plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda deemed unlawful

    In the ongoing legal dispute surrounding the contentious deportation policy to Rwanda, the British government has recently suffered a setback .

    The Court of Appeal has ruled in favor of a collective of individuals who arrived in the UK via small boats, as well as an asylum charity, who have contended that the policy is illegal.

    A panel consisting of three judges reached a divided decision on whether Rwanda meets the criteria as a “safe third country” for processing UK asylum cases, with two judges determining that it does not. It is anticipated that the government will likely challenge this ruling in the Supreme Court.

  • ‘Contaminated’ Sprite: Nigerians warned to be cautious

    ‘Contaminated’ Sprite: Nigerians warned to be cautious

    Nigerians have been informed to be cautious about the consumption of spirit soft drink as some bottles are said to be contaminated.

    “Particles” have been found in five crates of the soft drink at shops and a production facility, says the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.

    It is not clear what those particles are, but the authorities say it is the 50cl-size Sprite bottle in particular that is affected.

    Some consumers online say the announcement is too vague and are demanding more information.

  • Aid workers help liberate captured Sudan soldiers – ICRC

    Aid workers help liberate captured Sudan soldiers – ICRC

    The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), has reported that it played a key role in facilitating the liberation of 125 Sudanese soldiers who were being held by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

    The ICRC said the troops – many of whom were wounded – had been taken by bus from the capital, Khartoum, to the city of Wad Madani to the south.

    The war between Sudan’s army and the RSF has caused a major humanitarian crisis, displacing nearly three million people.

  • Prince Gyasi to become next photographer for Pirelli calendar

    Prince Gyasi to become next photographer for Pirelli calendar

    A highly acclaimed Ghanaian photographer celebrated for his hyper-realistic style, Prince Gyasi, has been chosen to craft the upcoming Pirelli calendar. Expressing his gratitude, Gyasi stated that he is deeply honored to have been selected for this prestigious opportunity. He further revealed that a portion of the project will be based in his home country, emphasizing the significance of representation and culture in his work.

    The 27-year-old started out as teenager taking photos on an old iPhone and has since exhibited in Japan, Brazil and France.

    Gyasi’s vivid images are influenced by his experience of the neurological condition synaesthesia, which causes a mixing of the senses – in his case he associates colours with words, such as aquamarine and “Wednesday”.

    The tyre company’s calendar has existed for six decades, often showing semi-naked women on its pages, which many critics have regarded as harmful objectification.

    There has been a shift in recent years about how women are portrayed, though it not clear if this is a deliberate move. The BBC has asked the company for comment.

  • Government has allocated GHS800m to support 900,000 businesses – GEA

    Government has allocated GHS800m to support 900,000 businesses – GEA

    Since 2017, government dedicated GH¢800 million to foster the growth and progress of micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) in Ghana.

    Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, disclosed that over 900,000 businesses have received assistance during this period to enhance their expansion and development.

    The support provided encompasses financial aid, training, capacity-building, and business advisory services, among other forms of assistance. These details were shared during the commemoration of World MSMEs Day in Accra.

    Organised by the GEA, the event was on the theme “Building resilient and sustainable MSMEs to create one million jobs.”

    Mrs Yankey-Ayeh said the supports were designed to equip MSMEs with the right tools that would put them on a trajectory of growth, and help them succeed in the long term.

    The Agency, he noted, had em­barked on several initiatives aimed at fostering an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive.

    She said, through its partner­ships with institutions including the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and other regulatory bodies, the Agency had streamlined bu­reaucratic processes and reduced the constraints MSMEs face in mainstreaming and formalising their businesses.

    In this regard, she noted that more than 1,000 products have been given regulatory approval within the past six years.

    Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh noted that MSMEs exist to drive economy and it was the focus of the Agency to do all it could by providing the necessary support for them to maximise their contributions to national development.

    The celebration of the World MSME Day, she said, provides an opportunity for MSMEs, regula­tors and supportive institutions to take stock of what has been, challenges and how they could be addressed as well as create the plat­form for networks and stronger relationships in creating sustain­able jobs.

    The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Stephen Amoah, advised businesses to ensure proper bookkeeping for effective records of financial transactions.

    This, he said, was critical to the sustainability of the business as well as enabling entrepreneurs to identify new areas of investment.

    “I want to take this opportu­nity to advise business owners to undertake proper bookkeeping at all times. A business can only be successful if records are intact and it is managed like a business.

    There is the need for business­es to set up annual budgets and separate ownership from control. This is a vital factor in making a sustainable business and achieving growth,” Dr. Amoah added.

    The Ministry, he noted, would in the coming months undertake a capacity-building exercise on bookkeeping for trade unions to enhance their skill in that area.

  • Customers of Gold Coast Fund demand investigation into EOCO over “missing” server

    Gold Coast Fund Management customers have demanded an explanation from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) regarding their inability to present a server crucial to an ongoing court case.

    In a statement released by convener Charles Nyame, the disgruntled customers highlighted that the server, which holds backup data of the company’s investors, was confiscated by EOCO after the revocation of Gold Coast Fund Management’s operational license in November 2019.

    The statement further mentioned that the court was informed about the missing server by the legal representatives of the Registrar of Companies, led by Ms. Iris.

    “The Lawyer told the court that, in her effort to reach out to EOCO due to the Court Order which sought to direct the EOCO to grant Gold Coast Fund Management access to the SERVER to copy specific data required by the Court to facilitate the determination of the Liquidation case, to her utter dismay, the authorities at the EOCO told her the said SERVER cannot be located.

    “The Aggrieved Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management consider the news of the missing SERVER a deliberate approach adopted by the government to deepen its delay tactics showcased on the Liquidation case since the year 2020.

    “Meanwhile, the same Government impeding the Liquidation process in court has insensitively conditioned the payment of the dying customers of Gold Coast Fund Management to the successful securing of Liquidation Order from Court.”

    Read the full statement below

    HEADS MUST ROLL AT EOCO FOR A MISSING SERVER WORTH OVER 3.5 BILLION GHANA CEDIS

    A SERVER which content valued over 3.5 billion Ghana Cedis is reported to have missing under the custody of EOCO. This revelation was brought to bear during a court section held on Wednesday, June 21st, 2023 when the Commercial Court Six (6) of the Accra High Court Division Sat on the Liquidation Case between the Registrar of Companies and Blackshield Capital Fund Management Limited, hitherto called; Gold Coast Fund Management, owned by Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom.

    The SERVER which belongs to the Gold Coast Fund Management Company and contains a backup data of its investors was confiscated by the EOCO through the directives of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the official regulator of Gold Coast Fund Management) after it has successfully revoked the company’s Operational Licence in November 8th, 2019 under the Financial Sector Clean-up Exercise policy initiated in the year 2018 by the government of Ghana under the NPP Akufo-Addo – Bawumia administration.

    News on the missing SERVER was informed to the court by the legal representation of the Registrar of Companies led by Ms. Iris. The Lawyer told the court that, in her effort to reach out to EOCO due to the Court Order which sought to direct the EOCO to grant Gold Coast Fund Management access to the SERVER to copy specific data require by the Court to facilitate the determination of the Liquidation case, to her utterly dismay, the authorities at the EOCO told her the said SERVER cannot be located.

    The Aggrieved Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management consider the news of the missing SERVER a deliberate approach adopted by the government to deepen its delay tactics showcased on the Liquidation case since the year 2020.

    Meanwhile, the same Government impeding the Liquidation process in court has insensitively conditioned the payment of the dying customers of Gold Coast Fund Management to the successful securing of Liquidation Order from Court.

    The question we are asking is, for how long must the dying customers continue to bear the brunt of a government policy (Financial Sector Clean-up Exercise) for the past five (5) years?

    We therefore make a passionate appeal as follows.

    The Government of His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo should with a sense of humanity, rescind on the condition of securing Liquidation Order before it pays Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management and direct the Finance Ministry to advance money from either the Parliamentary approved Bailout package or from the 15 billion Ghana Cedis Stability Fund to the GBC Capital to pay off the Customers, whiles, the Liquidation case continue in court.

    The whole structure of EOCO should be brought under investigation to produce the missing SERVER with immediate effect.

    His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo should give an order to EOCO to submit the missing SERVER to the court before/on July 3rd, 2023 thus the adjourned date for the Liquidation date for the smooth process of the case.

    The Media and the Civil Society Organisations should on humanitarian grounds push for immediate payment of the dying Gold Coast Customers since over 800 pensioners among Gold Coast Customers have died due to various health conditions they couldn’t raise money to fund medical treatment.

  • Speaker announces Parliament’s intention to fast-track Budget bill

    Speaker announces Parliament’s intention to fast-track Budget bill

    The Budget bill, which tries to give Members of Parliament (MPs) a say in what goes into the national budget, is being pushed for quick passage by the Speaker of the House, Alban Sumana Bagbin.

    According to Mr. Bagbin, the bill will force the administration to take action on important national concerns by integrating parliament in the process of creating the national budget, whereby priority are assigned to various sectors with regard to allocations.

    “This is a very important subject matter and I believe that one of the ways we could support national leadership to find solution, is for us to pass the Budget Act,” he said.

    He said every rainy season parts of the country experience flooding that leads to loss of lives and property, yet successive governments have failed to find a lasting solution to this problem – adding that the Budget bill is critical to prioritising and addressing some of the country’s social issues, including ending the perennial flooding recorded during rainy seasons.

    “Since I entered parliament in 1993, we have had so many statements of this nature (flooding) almost every year and we are not finding solutions to the problem; and I think it starts from the priority-setting. Parliament must be involved at that stage, not wait until a month to end of the year when the budget is thrust upon you and you have no time even by the constitutional provisions to talk about increasing the allocations – the provisions that have been made to various sector.

    “I think we have to pass the Budget Act so that we have early entry at the time of discussions on the budget, including the planning and priority-setting,” the Speaker emphasised.

    His remarks come on the back of comments by the MP for Adaklu, Kwame Governs Agbodza, on the floor of parliament about floods in some parts of Accra resulting from last week Wednesday’s downpour.

    News reports suggest that, so far, a lady and her two children are missing at Bortianor-Ngleshie Amamfrom due to the floods – which also led to other residents being injured and some properties damaged.

    Similarly, in March this year two people lost their lives in the same area due to flooding.

    In his statement, Mr. Agbodza – who is also the Minority Chief Whip – commiserated with the area’s MP and called on the Minister for Works and Housing to apprise the House [parliament] on steps his ministry is taking to avert further damage and loss of lives as the rains continue.

    “For the past several lyyears, there has not been any major desilting of drains in Accra. As a House and as a country, we need to take this very serious and see what we can do to at least minimise the damage that is happening in these areas.

    “It is not beyond the capability of parliament to help the relevant agencies to finance needed interventions to save lives. Desilting gutters or the major drains in Accra cannot be something beyond the funding of government with the approval of parliament,” he noted.

    He added: “We would like to see what government is going to do when the mid-year budget comes to the House”.

    Budget bill

    The Budget bill seeks to set a budget office in parliament that enables MPs to scrutinise the country’s national budget and economic policy.

    Currently, the only role the legislature plays in the budget process is to either approve or disapprove government’s budget when it is presented before the House by the Minister of Finance.

    Earlier this month, when parliament reconvened from break, leadership of both sides of the house told the press corps that the Budget bill is among those listed on the meeting’s agenda.

    Finance, Works and Housing Minister to brief House

    The Speaker has since directed that the Minister responsible for Works and Housing and the Finance Minster be programmed by the Business Committee to brief the House on actions being taken to address the recurrent flooding menace.

  • New commercial paper market to provide investors with options – GSE

    New commercial paper market to provide investors with options – GSE

    In response to the limited investment options available to investors, the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) is making preparations to establish a formal commercial paper market.

    This initiative aims to broaden the range of investment opportunities accessible to investors in the market.

    The domestic bourse sees accommodating the increasing demand for diversification within the capital market as a key step and aims to provide investors with additional opportunities, in a bid to enhance the safety net against risks of default.

    In an interview with the B&FT, GSE’s Managing Director Abena Amoah expressed enthusiasm about the progress made in establishing Ghana’s commercial paper market, saying: “We have submitted the work done by stakeholders to establish Ghana’s commercial paper market to the SEC, and we are eagerly awaiting their response”.

    The collaboration between various stakeholders has been instrumental in developing a framework for the commercial paper market, similar to the approach taken for the fixed-income market, she said.

    One notable aspect of the upcoming commercial paper market is a requirement for ratings on these issuances. This new feature will provide investors with valuable information and enhance their confidence in the market.

    “You’ll find that many of them require a rating to give investors confidence that this credit is rated at B, and so this is the risk level and I can price it differently from an A-rated institution, for instance,” Ms. Amoah explained.

    A commercial paper market will also facilitate the raising of additional capital by companies aiming to strengthen their positions. Public offers are expected to enter the market, offering investors a chance to diversify their investments.

    Furthermore, the Exchange is collaborating with the Minerals Income Investment Fund to issue a gold-backed exchange-traded fund (ETF). This initiative will further expand the range of products available on the market, providing investors with increased diversification options. The ETF’s launch is anticipated to take place by September or before end of the year.

    The move toward a formal commercial paper market is a significant development for Ghana’s financial landscape. Currently, an informal commercial paper market exists; but the formalisation of this market will enhance investor protection and instil a greater sense of security.

    Ms. Amoah emphasised the importance of lending and capital formation in a growing economy, stating: “Lending is a critical part of capital formation. So for short-term loans – as long as the economy is growing, as long as businesses are growing, as long as our GDP is growing – companies have capital needs”.

    The formal market will provide a regulated environment that assures investors of the credibility and reliability of commercial paper investments.

    However, it should be noted that the formal trading platform will not be the sole avenue for commercial paper issuance. Some investors may still prefer to engage in over-the-counter (OTC) trading outside the formalised market. The market structure’s flexibility aims to accommodate the diverse preferences and needs of investors.

    The introduction of a commercial paper market reflects the country’s commitment to expanding and diversifying its financial sector. By offering a regulated platform for short-term debt securities, GSE aims to attract more investors and foster economic growth.

    The upcoming launch, along with the introduction of a gold-backed ETF, demonstrates the GSE’s dedication to providing a wide range of investment options and diversifying its financial markets in the face of current limited options available to investors.

  • Ghana requests world leaders adopt climate-friendly finance structure

    Ghana requests world leaders adopt climate-friendly finance structure

    As the Chair of the Vulnerable Twenty (V20) Group, which consists of Finance Ministers from the Climate Vulnerable Forum, Ghana has urged world leaders to establish an effective financial framework tailored to climate challenges.

    This initiative aims to enhance the implementation of climate adaptation and mitigation measures in countries facing vulnerability.

    Additionally, it seeks to transform the approach to addressing climate-related debt issues and provide support to nations in need of funding for resilience-building and climate adaptation endeavors.

    “We must develop powerful coalitions to fight for humanity as we coordinate our efforts to respond positively to the need for the development of a fit-for-climate global financial system,” Ghana’s Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta said.

    Ofori-Atta was speaking at the two-day New Global Financing Pact summit, organised by the French government.

    “It’s critical that we scale up the innovative climate financing mechanisms and speed up climate action to ensure that we maintain the 1.5-degree Celsius temperature limit,” he said.

    The Chair of the V20 also called for improved country responsibility in addressing the issues of climate change for global benefit.

    The finance minister noted that the world needed, “the kind of leadership the world saw that led to the abolishment of apartheid, the drive behind the civil rights movement, and the development of the Breton Woods institutions.”

    He also reiterated President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s call for support for global financial system reforms as advanced by the V20 Group of Finance Ministers of the CVF through the recently launched Accra-to-Marrakech Agenda (the A2M).

    The Accra-to-Marrakech Agenda is a roadmap by the V20 to work to cement an international coalition behind a fit-for-climate global financial system, culminating at the Marrakech International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Annual Meetings in Marrakech later this year.

    The New Global Financing Pact summit is to reconsider the global financial architecture and ways to mobilise financial support for developing and low-income countries facing challenges, including global warming, loss of biodiversity, debt, and pandemics.  

    It is centred on addressing the financing required to meet the global challenges, and build solidarity amongst countries and all the critical stakeholders, as governments worked collectively towards a just green transition.

    The summit brought together Heads of State and government, leaders of major international organisations, representatives of global financial institutions, and private sector and civil society representatives.

    At the end of the summit, there was a call for a collective global effort to mobilise additional financial resources from the private sector, including multilateral development banks to support vulnerable countries.

    The call for transitioning into a net-zero economy by protecting the planet through shared goods and ensuring clean air, forests, and oceans through systematic transformation was also accentuated.

    It was noted that there was the need to stand united in international solidarity and win the battle against poverty by alleviating the debt burden of vulnerable countries through adequate renegotiations, restructuring and repayment.

  • “I can bring back the economy” – Akufo-Addo

    “I can bring back the economy” – Akufo-Addo

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to revitalizing the struggling economy.

    He emphasized that his government is diligently working towards restoring the economy to a robust state.

    In recent times, the economy has faced significant challenges, including rising prices of goods and services, an unsustainable debt burden, and a fluctuating currency, leading the government to seek a $3 million bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    During the Eid-Ul-Adha celebration on Wednesday, June 28, the President addressed Muslims and attributed the stability in petroleum product prices and the local currency to a decrease in inflation.

    “I said at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic that we do not know how to bring back lives, but we know how to bring back an economy. I stand by those words. Insha Allah, we are working to restore the economy to full health, and, Insha Allah, we shall do so”.

    “The currency has seen some stability lately, and, through the Gold for Oil Programme, we have seen the stability in the prices of petroleum products as well, all of which are bringing inflation down. Things are getting better, and will get better, I can assure you. Things are getting better and will get better”.

    He assured his commitment to implementing policies such as the 1-District-1-Factory, Planting for Food and Jobs, and Free Senior High School, among others.

    “We have continued to keep the lights on. We have continued to provide free SHS education. We have continued to ensure drone delivery of critical medicines to needy and remote communities. We have continued to keep the Zongo Development Fund. We have continued to build new roads and repair old ones. We have continued with our 1 -District-1 -Factory policy, and the Programme for Planting for Food and Jobs.

    Source: The Independent Ghana | Amanda Cartey

  • A dollar goes for GHS11.80 at forex, GHS11.00 on BoG interbank

    A dollar goes for GHS11.80 at forex, GHS11.00 on BoG interbank

    The Ghana Cedi is currently trading against the dollar at a purchasing price of 10.9922 and a selling price of 11.0032, according to the Bank of Ghana’s interbank exchange rates for today, June 29, 2023.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, the dollar is being bought at a rate of 11.30 and sold at a rate of 11.80.

    Against the Pound Sterling, the Cedi is trading at a buying price of 14.0162 and a selling price of 14.0313.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, the pound sterling is being bought at a rate of 14.50 and sold at a rate of 15.30.

    The Euro is trading at a buying price of 12.0528 and a selling price of 12.0637.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, Euro is being bought at a rate of 12.10 and sold at a rate of 12.80.

    The South African Rand is trading at a buying price of 0.5941 and a selling price of 0.5946.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, South African Rand is being bought at a rate of 0.30 and sold at a rate of 0.90.

    The Nigerian Naira is trading at a buying price of 68.7607 and a selling price of 68.8853.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, Nigerian Naira is being bought at a rate of 12.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 19.00.

    For the CFA, it is trading at a buying price of 54.3744 and a selling price of 54.4236.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, CFA is being bought at a rate of 17.00 CFA for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 21.00 CFA for every 1 Cedi.

    Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.

    Note that these rates may be different at a forex bureau near you. Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.

  • Sam George warns soldiers against skirmishes in Assin North

    Sam George warns soldiers against skirmishes in Assin North

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George, catch up with some personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces who had been deployed to the Assin North Constituency for the ongoing by-elections.

    In a video available to GhanaWeb, the MP can be seen engaging in a hearty conversation with the army personnel.

    He asked them whom they were protecting and the person who deployed them to the constituency since it is the job of the Ghana Police Service to provide security for the by-election.

    “It is only, the president and the vice president and of late the attorney general who uses military… even the speaker (of parliament) have been denied military. Are you with the minister of defence?

    “We don’t want Ayawaso West Wagon… you are my people, am begging you people… I like you and you like me so don’t let us have any skirmishes,” he said.

    The military person did not give any straight answer as to why they were in Assin North. They we not happy with the fact that their interaction with the MP was being recorded.

  • Whether you offer free visas to heaven or not, we’ll still emerge victorious over you – NDC tells NPP

    Whether you offer free visas to heaven or not, we’ll still emerge victorious over you – NDC tells NPP

    The Deputy Communication Director for the NDC, Malik Basintale, has confidently assured the NPP that the NDC would emerge victorious in the Assin North by-election, regardless of any efforts made by the opposing party to seize power.

    Malik believes that nothing the New Patriotic Party will do will turn the hearts and minds of the Assin North constituents away from the National Democratic Party.

    According to Malik Basintale, the NDC is unbothered about the monies and tokens the NPP is sharing to the constituents.

    He added that the NPP could share human parts or free visas to heaven, but their fate of losing woefully in the by-election will not change.

    The Communication Officer was speaking on the ‘Point of View’ on Citi TV.

    “I can confidently say that even if the NPP decides to share human parts and free visas to heaven, we will defeat them in the by-election. I can confidently say that from where I am, we have been interrogating people, and interacting with them throughout the processes. We have availed ourselves to listen to their concerns. What we are able to solve we have solved, what we are able to improve upon we have done that,” Malik said.

    The keenly contested race for the Assin North seat is between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate, Charles Opoku and James Gyakye Quayson of the NDC whose seat in parliament has been in contention following nationality claims after he was voted as MP back in 2020.

    Meanwhile, a new poll conducted by the Global InfoAnalytics has revealed that Charles Opoku, holds a slim advantage over James Gyakye Quayson in Tuesday’s by-election.

    The poll which was conducted ahead of the by-election showed that some 45.6 percent of respondents expressed their desire to vote for James Gyakye Quayson, while 46.7 percent declared their intention to vote for Charles Opoku.

    It further showed that some 6.9 percent of respondents remain undecided about the candidate to vote for who. This could prove pivotal in determining the final outcome of the election according to Global InfoAnalytics.

    You can also watch this episode of People & Places here:

    Why Akans head this Ghanaian group made up of 3 tribes, 5 clans | People & Places

    In the last and final episode of People & Places with focus on the Ada People, Wonder Ami Adu-Asare and her guests put the spotlight on the chieftaincy system of this ethnic group

  • Assin North by-election: Your curse won’t work on me, we all spend stolen money – Voter

    Assin North by-election: Your curse won’t work on me, we all spend stolen money – Voter

    A voter in Assin North expressed his indifference towards any curses pronounced by political parties, stating that he believes both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) are distributing ill-gotten funds.

    Before the by-election in Assin North, both NDC and the NPP raised allegations and counter allegations of buying votes from the electorates.

    Each of them blamed the other for using money and other items to lure the electorates to vote in their favour.

    However, recounting his experience, the voter in an interview sighted by GhanaWeb, revealed that he received a total sum of Ghc 300.00, Ghc 200 and Ghc 100 from the NPP and NDC respectively.

    And even though some of the givers of the money pronounced curses on individuals who received the money and voted otherwise, he is not moved by that.

    “I got GHC300 in all, I got Ghc200 from the NPP and I got GHC100 from the NDC.

    “One of them pronounced a curse, that is what I don’t even want to hear. The monies they are sharing are all stolen. We all are stealing from each other in this country. So, why are you cursing after we have come for some of the money you stole? We are all spending stolen money, so why are you cursing,” he asked.

    The voter also added that for him, although he has taken the monies from both parties, he knows who he will vote for.

    “For the voting, I will go and cast my vote, but I know who I will be voting for. If the curse works on me, that is fine, but I am very sure it will not work because the money they gave is coming from my tax,” he added.

    Assin North By-Election: We are all spending stolen money, so your curse wont work on me. I already know who I will vote for – An electorate fumes after collecting money from both NDC and NPP#UTVNews pic.twitter.com/MrhSODAa0c— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) June 27, 2023

  • Bulk oil distributors call for swift response to tanker drivers’ concerns

    Bulk oil distributors call for swift response to tanker drivers’ concerns

    The Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD) is pushing for a quick resolution of the road concerns raised by the Ghana National Tankers Drivers Union to avert a shortage of petroleum products in the coming days.

    According to the CBOD, delays in addressing the concerns of the drivers could pose serious impact on the supply of petroleum products.

    The Chief Executive of the Chamber, Dr.  Patrick Kweku Ofori, warned that moving fuel will be a challenge if the strike is allowed to enter into three days. Today, June, 27, 2023 is day two of the strike.

     “Our members who have products at anchorage and vessels at the ports will suffer greatly when it comes to demurrage charges if the issue is not resolved”, Dr. Ofori cautioned, adding that “the more this action goes on, the more devastating it will  affect the  economy”.

    Background

    The National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union in a letter to the management of the Tema Oil Refinery on June 22, 2023 declared its intention to strike from June 26, 2023.

    This was to press home its demands for the rehabilitation of roads in the industrial enclave of Tema and depots across the country including, Takoradi, Kumasi and Buipe.

    According to the union, it members have been forced to take the action since several engagements with some government officials, and the National Petroleum Authority have failed to get the desired results.

    The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union later in a statement noted that the bad roads are dangerous for moving petroleum products around the country.

    CBOD on concerns of Tanker Drivers 

    Describing the concerns of the drivers as genuine, Dr. Ofori stressed the need to resolve the issue immediately.

    “These roads in the Tema and other petroleum enclave are very important to the supply and distribution of petroleum products across the country and even industries and therefore it’s surprising that this issue has not been addressed”, he said.

    He called on local authorities to be sensitive to the calls of citizens to avert such unrests in the future.

    “We are also of the view that it is not too late for the necessary action to be taken to deal with  the rehabilitation of the roads” Dr. Ofori added.

    Dr. Ofori disclosed that the Tema Industrial enclave accounts for about 70% of the country’s finished Petroleum needs in the country.