It appears that the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is on a destooling spree, however, none of his decisions are not without basis.
The most recent to be hit by the Asantehene’s wrath is the Nkonsonhene, Nana Osei Tiri II.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, took the decisive step of dethroning the Nkonsonhene due to his blatant disregard for a ruling issued in a land dispute case.
A video, posted on the Royal Palace MultiMedia YouTube page, captured the Gyaasefuor presenting the now-deposed Nkonsonhene, Nana Osei Tiri II, in front of the Asanteman Council.
The complainants detailed how, despite Otumfuo’s ruling that a disputed land area should remain off-limits to both parties, the Nkonsonhene had chosen to flout this decision by leading his people in developing the land.
Otumfuo had imposed a prohibition on accessing the land and called upon both parties to present their plans for his final verdict on the matter. However, Nana Osei Tiri II disregarded this directive.
Following a cross-examination by Otumfuo’s linguist, it was established that the subchief had engaged in misconduct. The Nkonsonhene’s attempts to justify his actions were deemed insufficient, leading to the decision to strip him of his title.
In delivering the verdict, Otumfuo highlighted that the Nkonsonhene had neglected his responsibilities for an extended period, failing to uphold the essential rituals of his office.
He also referenced their childhood friendship as a factor influencing his decision to dismiss the Nkonsonhene from his position, expressing disappointment in the way he had treated his traditional role.
“Kyidonhene is available but you were misconducting yourself. When Kyeame Duah was alive, I told you to go and solve the issues, he died long before Bonsu came in, till date you are litigating over a land. I am right?
“You came to meet Atenehene. I have overlooked you for too long. I was here with you since childhood and we are serving together, so you have become pompous. Yaw Duah, I have been here with you for long in service so you have become ungovernable.
“You are unable to carry out basic rites, you haven’t seen your stool for years now …. Today this day, you are destooled.”
Atletico Madrid’s forward, Memphis Depay, proudly embraced his Ghanaian heritage by executing an ‘adowa’ dance move in jubilation following his remarkable long-range goal for the team in a La Liga match on Monday evening.
Depay, who has dedicated each of his past three summer breaks to reconnecting with his ancestral country, confidently netted a goal from a staggering 40 yards, propelling Atletico Madrid to a 2-1 advantage and paving the way for a comfortable 3-1 victory against Granada in their inaugural La Liga game of the 2023/24 season.
The 30-year-old expressed his joy by elegantly showcasing the ‘adowa’ dance, raising his arms skyward and then touching his chest—an unmistakable gesture signifying his dominance at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.
This celebration perfectly complemented his extraordinary goal, which has sparked widespread discussions and admiration.
Derived from the Akan people of Ghana, the ‘adowa’ dance holds significant cultural importance. This traditional dance is a cherished part of Ghanaian heritage, performed during cultural events such as festivals, funerals, engagements, and festive occasions.
Ghanaian actor Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly referred to as LilWin, is said to have spent GHS400,000 in the making of his latest movie, Mr President.
This information was disclosed by one of the Directors of the movie, Samuel Kwasi Badu popularly known as Director OT.
He made this known during an interview with Agropapa, the host of Ezra Entertainment Arena on Kumasi-based Ezra FM.
“We spent about GHc400,000 in producing the movies. This includes renting an aircraft which cost us $4,000 for 10 minutes shooting, mounting of billboards, media engagement among others”, Director OT is quoted to have said by Ghanaweb.
Mr President is set to be released on August 26, 2023. Lead Director of the movie is Mr Samuel Nyamekye, also recognised as a film producer.
A group of angry married women hit the campus of a Nigerian university to register their displeasure against the actions of female students that disrupt the peace in their homes.
Some female students in tertiary institutions have been accused of seducing married men, who in turn fail to stay faithful to their wives.
In a video shared by GHpage, an orator accused female students of enticing married men by wearing short skirts.
Aspects of the video also showed aggrieved wives shouting on top of their voices while striking a single bell.
It is unknown which university the married women marched into to voice their spleen.
A 2013 survey published in the Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice journal outlined lack of commitment, infidelity and family as reasons for divorce.
According to reports, Nigeria witnessed a concerning 14 percent surge in separation rates, reflecting an ongoing unfavorable trend.
Three thousand instances of divorce were documented in Badagry, Lagos.
Additionally, a 2019 report titled ‘Deciphering the High Rate of Divorce in Nigeria’ shed light on Kano state’s staggering number of over 1 million officially registered divorcees.
A news report emphasized that a visit to the Social Development Secretariat under the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) unveiled a concerning reality: between 20 and 30 instances of divorce cases are reported at one of the offices on a daily basis.
Moreover, official records from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court revealed that an excess of 2,000 divorce cases were lodged between 2019 and February 2020.
The court grappled with an average intake of 30 cases per day.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has indicated that from Friday, August 18, it would commence the sensitization exercise on this year’s guidelines for school selection into Senior High Schools
The exercise will take place in all the respective Regional, District Education Directorates and schools.
In view of this, the general public, particularly parents, candidates, and teachers, have been encouraged to patronize.
“Parents and guardians are particularly advised to take keen interest in the selection of schools processes to ensure a smooth Placement this year,” a portion of the statement from the GES read.
The selection of schools is scheduled from 23rd August to 4th September 2023.
There will be an opportunity for candidates to text to a short code and confirm their school choices before actual placement is done.
Details of the short code will be made available in due course, according to the Head of the Public Relations Unit of the GES, Cassandra Twum Ampofo.
Over 600,000 candidates sat for the 2023 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) that took place from August 7 to August 11, 2023.
During the weekend, a tragic house explosion in Plum, a suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, claimed the lives of five individuals, including a 38-year-old man and his 12-year-old son.
The incident occurred on August 12th and also resulted in injuries to three others, with one person in critical condition.
The blast devastated not only the house but also three other neighboring structures, while roughly a dozen others sustained damage.
As investigators diligently work to ascertain the cause of this catastrophic explosion, the community remains in shock.
Reports from Allegheny County officials in Pennsylvania reveal that an urgent emergency 911 call was received around 10:30 AM (15:30 BST) on Saturday. Rapid response from both police and firefighters ensued, and upon arrival, it was discovered that individuals were trapped beneath the debris.
“It appeared as if one house had exploded, and two others were engulfed in fire. Multiple other homes were damaged with windows blown out,” they said in a Facebook post.
Video footage captured by a doorbell camera, the authenticity of which the BBC has not independently confirmed, depicts a substantial explosion propelling smoke and debris high into the sky over the neighborhood.
Subsequently, five bodies were retrieved from the location.
Authorities are grappling with uncertainty regarding the occupants of the house and any potential visitors in the vicinity during the incident. This lack of clarity is posing challenges in the process of identifying the deceased individuals.
“ID is expected to take some time as it will involve use of dental records, and potentially DNA, for formal identification,” Allegheny County said on X, the social media network formerly known as Twitter.
Although authorities have refrained from disclosing the identities of the victims, relatives have come forward to identify two of the deceased. Casey Clontz, aged 38, and his 12-year-old son, Keegan, have been confirmed as among the five individuals tragically lost in the explosion.
The Clontz family resided four houses away from the explosion’s epicenter. While the reasons for their presence at the location remain unclear, family members shared with the local news outlet TribLive that the two were likely visiting nearby neighbors.
In a statement provided by the Clontz family, Keegan was described as Casey’s inseparable companion, often accompanying his father on fishing and hunting expeditions.
Although authorities have refrained from disclosing the identities of the victims, relatives have come forward to identify two of the deceased. Casey Clontz, aged 38, and his 12-year-old son, Keegan, have been confirmed as among the five individuals tragically lost in the explosion.
The Clontz family resided four houses away from the explosion’s epicenter. While the reasons for their presence at the location remain unclear, family members shared with the local news outlet TribLive that the two were likely visiting nearby neighbors.
In a statement provided by the Clontz family, Keegan was described as Casey’s inseparable companion, often accompanying his father on fishing and hunting expeditions.
Keegan, an active participant in a youth football program, was poised to commence junior high school in a mere week.
Casey, who had been married to his wife Jen for 14 years, also left behind a 10-year-old daughter named Addie.
Simultaneously, an online fundraiser has been established for the Oravitz family, proprietors of the property where the explosion transpired. It remains unclear whether any family members were among the casualties.
The formidable fire required the combined efforts of no less than 18 local fire departments to quell. Over 50 firefighters were attended to at the scene for minor ailments, primarily stemming from heat exhaustion.
Inquiries into the explosion’s cause are being led jointly by local law enforcement, fire officials, representatives from the local utility company, and the state public utilities commission.
Officials informed CBS, the BBC’s partner in the United States, that the investigation is anticipated to be a gradual and protracted process. It might potentially span several months or even years before reaching a conclusion.
Rafal Kolankowski, a resident, recounted to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that the blast shattered windows within his home and caused both him and his wife to fall. He expressed the profound tragedy that has struck the neighborhood, likening it to a war-torn zone. The sudden and dramatic change from his interactions with neighbors the day before to the devastating incident is deeply disheartening, as he shared, “I was just with some of the neighbors yesterday, right, and now this happens.”
Gold Fields Ghana Limited on August 11, 2023, made a significant contribution by presenting a specialized purpose-case tractor worth $28,000 to the Air Force Base Takoradi.
This equipment is intended to be employed for the crucial task of clearing overgrown vegetation and obstacles along the runway shoulders, thereby enhancing flight safety.
During a concise event, Air Commodore Godfred Sackey Parker, the Base Commander, officially accepted the tractor and conveyed his gratitude to Gold Fields Ghana Limited for their valuable support.
Emphasizing that the airport serves both military and civilian purposes, Air Commodore Parker highlighted that maintaining proper visibility is paramount.
According to international standards, the runway’s edges require regular pruning of weeds to ensure adequate visibility.
He pointed out that the Base had previously outsourced the task to civilian tractors at considerable cost, making the provision of the tractor extremely timely.
He further explained that Gold Fields Ghana Limited’s prompt intervention would significantly contribute to upholding runway safety and visibility.
Mr. Elliot Twum, the Relieving General Manager of Gold Fields Tarkwa Mines, who presented the case-tractor, stated that this contribution serves as a testament to Gold Fields Ghana’s commitment to safety and community support.
He emphasized that the Takoradi Airport caters to Gold Field’s employees, visitors, and stakeholders who travel to the company’s mining sites at Tarkwa and Damang for business purposes.
Mr. Twum revealed that the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation has invested more than USD $96 million in various socio-economic development initiatives, spanning education, healthcare, water, sanitation, agriculture, and infrastructure in the host communities.
He underscored that the company’s actions align with its core values by providing the case-tractor to enhance operations at the Base.
The ceremony was witnessed by Group Captain Edward Agana, the Senior Air Traffic Controller.
Engaging the media on Monday, August 14, the Foreign Minister noted that the agency under her ministry has been cautioned against keeping staff for more than a year.
“This is not something that is new. We have always said no agency should keep their staff here for more than a year and yet this is overlooked sometimes.
“So I intend to ensure this is carried out to the letter,” she stated.
Meanwhile, the sector minister has noted that her outfit is set out to capture intermediaries who charge unsuspecting Ghanaians exorbitant fees to get them their passports.
Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey noted that such individuals, popularly known as ‘gorro boys‘ operate with workers within the Passport Office.
“Just two days ago, the report in Daily Guide that the issue of gorro people involved in our passport acquisition process has become ripe. It is wrong.
How can GHS100 for Standard Service to a passport and GH150 or expedited service be bumped up to GH2000 and GHS3000. It is wrong.
The gorro person is outside the passport office. They need somebody inside to work with. They cannot do it on their own,” she said.
According to the minister, the Foreign Ministry has some leads and will at the appropriate time provide its findings.
Borders are a fundamental aspect of any nation’s geography. They signify the point where one country’s expanse concludes and another’s begins.
These borders range from distinct lines to more ambiguous boundaries that might not be immediately evident.
Recently, Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire engaged in a legal process to define their maritime boundary, a case that saw Ghana emerging victorious.
Despite this legal tussle, the two nations have maintained a generally positive relationship over time.
Interestingly, some of these borders are not distant frontiers but mere steps away from each other. An intriguing image circulating online captures this proximity, prompting numerous individuals to share it.
The photograph depicts two men stand on opposing sides of a modest concrete pillar, its height merely a few meters above the ground. In a symbolic gesture, they extend their hands to meet in a handshake, effectively highlighting the border’s demarcation.
This snapshot is gaining traction due to its portrayal of the boundary between these two countries. Notably, this is not the first instance where a simple act, like a short stroll or a few meters, serves as a delineation between Ghana and its neighboring nations.
Borders hold a unique significance in defining nations, and this image encapsulates the intriguing blend of geographical lines and diplomatic relations in an evolving global landscape.
A far-right politician known for his admiration of former US President Donald Trump, Javier Milei, has achieved a remarkable feat by securing the largest portion of votes in Argentina’s primary election.
This preliminary election, which involves candidates from all political parties, holds substantial significance as an indicator for the upcoming presidential election on October 22nd.
Surpassing expectations, Mr. Milei captured an impressive 30% of the votes, outshining more established political figures. This outcome has sent shockwaves through the Argentine media, aptly termed a “political earthquake.”
Argentina’s primary system differs from those of other nations, as it allows participation not only for party members but also for all eligible voters who can partake in the presidential election. Voting in these primaries is compulsory.
The candidate who garners the most votes in the primaries is often considered a front-runner for the main presidential election on October 22nd.
Preceding the primaries, opinion polls had placed Mr. Milei behind the center-left economy minister, Sergio Massa, and the conservative contender Patricia Bullrich.
However, with over 97% of the votes tallied, Mr. Milei secured 30.06% of the votes, leading Patricia Bullrich’s coalition with 28.27% and Sergio Massa’s coalition with 27.24%.
Newspaper La Nación likened Mr. Milei’s surge to a formidable tsunami.
Despite having served as a Congressman since 2021, Mr. Milei, a former TV personality, prefers to position himself as a political outsider.
IMAGE SOURCE, GETTY IMAGES – Image caption: Javier Milei is often seen wearing his trademark leather jacket and sporting long sideburns
His anti-establishment perspective has resonated strongly with Argentine voters who are frustrated with both the present and past administrations for their inability to resolve the nation’s economic turmoil.
With an annual inflation rate exceeding 115%, a quarter of the population living in poverty, and the local currency, the peso, having plummeted to the extent that rival football fans mock Argentine supporters by tearing up peso bills, the discontent is palpable.
Mr. Milei has directed vehement criticisms towards his rivals hailing from entrenched political parties. In the aftermath of the primary, he addressed his enthusiastic supporters, proclaiming that they have crafted a viable alternative capable of dismantling the parasitic, corrupt, and ineffective political elite.
At 52 years old, he envisions the elimination of Argentina’s central bank, the substitution of the peso with the US dollar, and the privatization of state-owned entities running at a loss, if elected. His policy stance on loosening gun controls mirrors a page from the playbook of Brazil’s former far-right leader, Jair Bolsonaro.
Mr. Milei has vocalized his opposition to abortion unless the life of the mother is endangered, and he pledges to safeguard the lives of children from conception, forming a crucial part of his campaign agenda.
Expressing skepticism towards sex education in schools, branding it a strategy to dismantle the “traditional family,” and rejecting the concept of climate change, he portrays a unique and unorthodox image.
Sporting distinctive long sideburns, belting out rock anthems, and often donning a leather jacket, the deliberately provocative 52-year-old frequently launches expletive-laden tirades against “the left.”
His unexpectedly strong performance in the primary—exceeding opinion polls by 10 percentage points—prompted a further plunge in the peso’s value. As markets commenced on Monday, the official exchange rate plummeted by nearly 18%, settling just above 350 pesos per dollar.
Mr Milei’s success was celebrated rapturously by his supporters, whom he told: “We are the true opposition, we are the only ones who want a real change, because remember, a different Argentina is impossible with the same old people, with the same old people who have always failed, with the same old people who have been failing for 100 years.”
Following the recent primaries, the second and third place candidates, Patricia Bullrich and Sergio Massa, are now focusing on enhancing their positions in preparation for the initial round of the presidential election scheduled for October 22nd.
Should no candidate secure 45% of the votes or 40% with a lead of 10 percentage points, a second round will take place on November 19th between the top two contenders.
Given the slight margin of under four percentage points that separates the leading three candidates in the primaries, the likelihood of a second round is currently high.
Argentina is not the sole nation in the region where an anti-establishment candidate has disrupted the political landscape.
In Colombia’s 2022 election, independent contender Rodolfo Hernández unexpectedly took the lead in the initial round, only to be defeated by former left-wing rebel Gustavo Petro in the runoff.
Similarly, Chile saw far-right candidate José Antonio Kast secure the lead in the first round of the 2021 election, yet he was ultimately overcome by the left-wing former student leader Gabriel Boric in the subsequent round.
In Brazil, fervent supporters of the incumbent far-right figure, Jair Bolsonaro, disputed his narrow loss to his left-wing rival, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Their dissent culminated in a storming of Congress mere days after Lula da Silva’s inauguration on January 1st, 2023.
On Wednesday, August 9th, 2023, the Supply and Engineering Branch of the Ghana Air Force convened a collaborative session with a delegation from the Joint User Hydrant Installation (JUHI), led by Mr. Kwabena Amoahene.
This significant meeting took place at the Air Force Headquarters.
The primary purpose of the meeting was to facilitate an informative exchange between the Ghana Air Force and JUHI.
The latter provided a comprehensive presentation regarding the proposed alteration of the filtration system used in the fuel bowsers.
This adjustment aligns with the directive of the Joint Inspection Group Limited (JIG), which mandates all operators utilizing filter monitor filtration components to transition from the former JIG Standards to an updated system starting July 1st, 2023.
In adherence to this directive, the Ghana Air Force took the initiative to organize this consultative assembly.
The main focus was to delve into the intricate technical prerequisites and specifications necessary for implementing the new system. This thorough scrutiny aimed to guarantee complete alignment with aviation standards and paramount safety measures.
Leading the proceedings was Wing Commander Mark Odarlai France, who is currently serving as the Acting Director of Supply.
Among the attendees were various members representing both the Supply and Engineering Branch at the Headquarters and the Supply and Engineering Wing stationed at the Base. The assembly also welcomed participants from JUHI and Ghana Oil (GOIL).
The Ghana Army has expanded its accommodations with the addition of a 20-Unit Officers’ Transit facility to the existing BK Akafia Transit Lodge at the UN Village in Burma Camp.
On August 9, 2023, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General T. Oppong-Peprah, officially commissioned the facility.
The project was constructed and furnished for the Army by Mr. Kwasi Amoo Siriboe, the Chief Executive Officer of Paragon Company Limited, and a friend and philanthropist of the COAS.
During the commissioning, Major General T. Oppong-Peprah expressed his gratitude to Mr. Siriboe for his contribution to the project. Mr. Siriboe, in turn, praised the COAS’s vision for the Ghana Armed Forces and shared that he was inspired by the COAS’s intentions and actions for the Army, which led him to build and name the block after the COAS.
Brigadier General KKK Kumi highlighted the significance of the 40-bed Oppong-Peprah Flat, noting that it will provide much-needed relief for outstation officers prior to their deployment for peace support operations or upon returning to their units while in Accra.
During the ceremony, Major General T. Oppong-Peprah invited 2nd Lieutenant Clara Aka Afriyie, the Junior Officer on Parade, to cut the ribbon and unveil the plaque.
Distinguished individuals who attended the event included Major General CKAA Awity, the Commander of Ghana Military Academy; Major General MA Amoah, GOC Southern Command/MJTFC Op KOUDANLGOU; Major General B Onwona, the Commandant of GAFCSC; Major General Osei-Owusu, DCOS (Log); and Major General J Aphour, DCOS (Ops & Trg).
The world is now a global village thanks to advancements in technology. Individuals from diverse backgrounds, be they religious, social, or political, are able to share a bit of who they are with the world.
However, despite the devices available, many in the Western world are quite oblivious to the existence of the numerous countries in Africa and what their beliefs and ways of living are.
Presently, a minor has taken it upon herself to contribute to the awareness of the West African state, Ghana, and Africa in general.
11-year-old Samara Osae-Asare is the name on the lips of most Ghanaians, as she devotes her time to promoting Ghana to the world.
From the diverse languages, the food mostly preferred by the locals, amazing tourist sites to behold, nothing skips the attention of the Ghanaian-American girl.
In most of her interactions with celebrities, she teaches them a few words in the local parlance known as Twi.
Swizz Beatz, the American record producer, rapper, DJ and songwriter, is one of her beneficiaries.
Swizz Beatz and Samara
She has encouraged the likes of singer Usher, Black Panther actress, Letitia Michelle Wright, Erykah Badu, an American singer, Lauryn Hill, a sensational singer, rappers Ice Cube and Snoop Dogg, and others to visit Ghana.
Usher has already had a taste of Ghana. Ahead of the Global Citizen Festival which took place on Saturday, September 24, 2022, he toured the country.
The popular American Pop and RnB superstar, visited several sites in the Chorkor community, meeting with local traders and fishermen in the Greater Accra region.
After the show, Usher promised to return to Ghana.
At just 11 years old, Samara Osae-Asare stands out from the crowd. As the vibrant host of TV3’s Kidz Arena, she takes center stage, engaging in insightful interviews with celebrities spanning the globe.
Her love for journalism and entertainment fuels her drive, setting her apart from her peers. Samara’s aspiration extends beyond her own achievements; she aims to ignite a spark of inspiration among fellow youngsters, encouraging them to fearlessly pursue their aspirations.
Samara Osae-Asare is not your average 11-year-old girl. She is the host of TV3’s Kidz Arena, a show that features interviews with celebrities from around the world. She is also a proud Ghanaian-American who loves to share her culture with her guests.
In one of her interviews, she had the chance to chat with Swizz Beatz, the American record producer, rapper, DJ and songwriter who is married to Alicia Keys.
Swizz Beatz was impressed by Samara’s confidence and charisma, and he wanted to learn more about Ghana.
Samara Osae-Asare thought him how to say “thank you” in Twi, which goes by “Meda ase”.
Although his accent impeded an immaculate tone, Swizz Beat gave it a good try.
Teaching foreigners a thing or two about Ghana is not the only thing she does. She also entreats them to find time to come down to Ghana and have a wonderful time and enjoy the rich Ghanaian culture.
Samara Osae-Asare is a rising star who has interviewed many famous personalities, such as Usher, Letitia Wright, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Ice Cube and Snoop Dogg.
She has a passion for journalism and entertainment, and she hopes to inspire other young people to follow their dreams.
🚨ICYMI🇬🇭🎶: Meet amazing Ghanaian TV personality wonder kid, @SamaTime12 who she teaches her guests a thing or two about Ghana during her interviews. – Recently, she was at the #hiphop50thanniversary celebration where she talked to HipHop heavyweights about Ghana.
— Ölele | Deep Throat Sauce👨🏾🍳🇬🇭 (@OleleSalvador) August 14, 2023
In reaction to this development, several tweeps have lauded Samara Osae-Asare for the good work being done to sell Africa, particularly Ghana to the world.
Among the many urging the 11-year-old to keep up the good work are Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie.
Director of Finance at the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Charles Elias Reindorf, has noted that the decision to construct a new headquarters was not taken in a rash.
In an interview on Asempa FM, Charles Elias Reindorf stated that management of the Central Bank, as far back as 2020, had drawn up plans to relocate.
In 2021, construction work began on the project, which has currently courted public dissatisfaction.
“That building has been on the drawing board for a while. We didn’t start last year.
Management saw the need, that once we realized that our building may be under threat and we will put the lives of people in danger once something drastic happens, they put measures in place to put up a new building.
It was started about two years ago, in 2021. But it has been on the drawing board for a long time. We started in 2020 or so,” he recounted.
The Central Bank is said to be investing $250 million in its new headquarters.
When asked by the host of Ekosisen, Philip Osei Bonsu, on the amount of money being committed by the Bank of Ghana, Mr Charles Elias Reindorf said: “I don’t have the figure in my head. I don’t have the full compliment of figures at this moment.”
Why a new headquarters
In a press statement, the Bank of Ghana explained that the need to construct a new headquarters stems from the threat of seismic activity.
According to the Central Bank, its current structure, built in the 1960s, lacks structural integrity, and is therefore incapable of withstanding an earth tremor.
The ongoing project is a 21-story structure situated in Ridge, adjacent to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge.
The project, said to be approximately 50% finished, has been awarded to De Simone Limited.
Respone
Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson at a National Democratic Congress (NDC) press conference on Tuesday, August 8, labelled the Bank of Ghana as insensitive over its decision.
Former President John Mahama has provided an assurance to Ghanaians that the upcoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government will deliver quality governance.
The NDC’s flagbearer for the 2024 elections pledged that his administration will diligently work to alleviate the tax burden on Ghanaian businesses, which has been imposed by the current governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He emphasized that this tax burden has hindered the nation from maintaining its esteemed status as a prominent investment destination in Africa.
In his message commemorating International Youth Day on August 12, Mr. Mahama expressed his deep concern regarding the notably high level of youth unemployment in the country.
Mr Mahama underlined that the youth constitute the driving force behind positive transformations and serve as pivotal agents of development throughout Ghana’s history.
He elaborated that in order to secure a more promising future, it is imperative to equip the youth with relevant skills, generate employment opportunities, and provide the necessary support for them to play a transformative role in shaping both the nation and the entire African continent.
“Rising unemployment, increasing cost of living, and lack of opportunities have left many young people feeling hopeless and are testing their sense of patriotism to the limit.
“For me, John Dramani Mahama, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), we are committed to urgently turning this situation around by paving the way for nurturing a generation of skilled youth,” he said.
“A new NDC administration will work urgently to equip our youth with the entrepreneurial knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable future. We will introduce a 24-hour economy with incentives and tax breaks for manufacturers who will run extra shifts to create more room for employment.”
Mr Mahama added that his administration will boost the potential of agriculture and agribusiness and provide critical social and IT infrastructure to stimulate economic growth.
“Our policy priorities will imbue our young people with the “knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society” — the critical Green Skills our youth need to advance a sustainable world,” the NDC flagbearer stated.
Mr Mahama said that he has the interest of Ghanaians at heart, noting that by working together, “we will build the Ghana we want and put the smiles back on the faces of our young people.”
Recent reports suggested that around 2,000 students were dismissed due to fee payment delays.
In a released press statement to clarify the situation, the management stated, “Rather, students who have not registered for the Second Semester of 2022/2023 Academic Year, were asked to defer their programmes for that semester after the university made several concessions to get all students to register.”
According to the University’s academic calendar, which was sanctioned by the Academic Board, the registration deadline for students was May 29, 2023.
Despite extending the deadline to July, the University’s management observed that a considerable number of students had neither paid nor completed their registration.
“The Executives of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) of the University had a meeting with the University Management and pleaded again for the student’s registration to be extended. The plea was accepted, and the date was extended to July 28, 2023, by the University Management.
“Despite the Executives of the SRC setting a deadline of August 3, 2023, the University added a human face and formally ended course registration for students on August 7, 2023, when even the End-of-Second-Semester Examination had begun.
“After these many concessions, there are still 648 students who have not registered, as opposed to the 2,000 that some media houses had stated.”
Consequently, it was the University’s Academic Board, and not the Chancellor, Dr. Kwame Addo Kufuor, who made the decision to request the students to defer their studies.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communication Member, Awal Mohammed, has slammed the Minority Members of Parliament for lashing out at the Central Bank over some payments made in the 2022 fiscal year.
In its 2022 Annual Report & Financial Statements, the Bank of Ghana noted that it spent GHS1.6 billion as personnel cost for 2,215 staff.
President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has also alleged that each independent director serving on the Bank of Ghana’s board receives a monthly payment of US$8,000, equivalent to GH¢89,852.36.
This revelation, among other concerns, has garnered dissatisfaction with the Bank of Ghana. In view of this, the Minority has called for the dismissal of the Central Bank governor, Dr Ernest Addison.
“There is an urgent need for BoG’s internal operations to be reviewed to ensure that no losses would be posted or repeated this year.
“The Governor, his deputies and entire Board have failed the nation and must resign without delay to begin the process of saving the BoG,” the Minority noted.
But in response, Awal Mohammed has described the Minority’s demands as baseless.
In an interview on Peace FM, the NPP Communication Member argued that 2022 was a difficult year as such government stepped in to alleviate the plight of public office workers.
According to him, government raised the income of public sector workers by 30 percent.
He therefore noted that as the Bank of Ghana is a State Owned Enterprise, it was prudent for its director to benefit from such adjustment.
“In 2022, the President had not budgeted to pay public sector workers more money.
But at a point in time, we realized that there was hardship so we gave Cost of Living Allowance for public sector workers. For six months, we were paying. Again for the first time, in the history of the 4th Republic, there was 30 percent increment in salaries of public sector workers.”
He added: “So the Director at the Bank of Ghana does not deserve to have his salary increased? They should have their salaries without any increment?
That’s why I am saying they are a bunch of inept leaders. Because you don’t mention the nominal figures. You come and say they increase their salary by 8.7 million. What is the percent to that?”
Water is essential in our lives as it is needed to carry out domestic purposes such as cooking, washing, drinking, etc, as well as commercial purposes.
Many homeowners have installed the pipe system, but do you know how to operate it.
The faucet could be a funny tool to operate.
Luckily, here is a video to save you from all that trouble.
Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu, has voiced his displeasure against the practice of betting by Ghanaian citizens.
He argues that betting does not encourage handwork as it is mainly dependent on luck.
Speaking in an interview on Kumasi-based Angel FM on Thursday, the Suame MP likened betting to robbery, as both activities require chances for success.
“I don’t believe in betting. I don’t believe in luck. I believe in hard work and sweating to get money. Let’s be serious. As for me, I’m against betting coming into the country.
“They say it is work,” the host stated. But in a sharp rebuttal, the Majority leader said “if you put it that way, robbery is also a work.”
“I am not happy with it. It does not encourage hard work,” he added.
BETTING TAX
Majority leader in Parliament, Hon Kyei Mensah Bonsu supports tax on betting.
Says he detests betting because it doesn’t encourage hard and that those who say betting should be seen as work should know that stealing is also someone’s work.
Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu’s comment has not been well-received by some Ghanaians on social media.
Some tweeps argued that should government have provided more jobs and created an enabling environment for job opportunities, many of the youths would not be engaged in betting.
Starting from August 15, 2023, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is set to implement a 10% withholding tax on all gross gaming winnings. This change comes as a replacement for the previous 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) rate applied to each stake. Under the new policy, the withholding tax will be levied on the earnings obtained after each winning occasion.
The rationale behind this adjustment, according to the GRA, stems from an amendment to the Income Tax Act 2023 (No.2), specifically Act 1094.
Edward Gyamerah, a Commissioner within the Domestic Tax Revenue Division of the GRA, emphasized that strict measures will be taken against any gaming entity that chooses to ignore this updated policy. Such non-compliant companies could face penalties, including the possibility of having their licenses revoked.
Member of Parliament representing Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has quashed concerns raised by US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, regarding the enactment of Ghana’s Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill (commonly known as the anti-LGBTQI bill).
During the US-Ghana Business Expo held in Accra on August 10, 2023, Ambassador Palmer cautioned that any form of discrimination against LGBTQ individuals could convey an unfavorable message to American investors at large, and therefore, should be avoided.
“Ghana is a very welcoming, tolerant society, lots of interreligious, interethnic harmony, and that is what makes Ghana strong, stable, and attractive for investment. I hope it stays that way with regards to the LGBT community.
“And again, there is money to be made if the colour of your money is green or red; it is Ghanaian, but if there is discrimination or worse, then that will send a signal to not just LGBT investors but other American investors that Ghana is less welcoming than I am telling people that it is now. So, I hope it will stay welcoming,” she told journalists.
But reacting to her comment, Sam Nartey George noted that there is very little likelihood for that happening as businesses continue to thrive in the US despite the implementation of anti-LGBTQ laws in some states.
“I am confident it should not be a worry as our intended legislation is NOT different from American laws in states like Florida and Kentucky. I believe the US Supreme Court agrees largely with Ghana’s position,” he wrote.
He also expressed disappointment in the US ambassador for suggesting that values play no role in business investment by investors.
“You have expressed fears that investors from the US would not find Ghana attractive if we as Ghanaians uphold our values and reject the depravity of LGBTQI. I find that really surprising.
“Are American investors looking to invest in a country and with partners who have no values? I thought the basic test of a potential partner is integrity and values. Ghana, as you know, is very intolerant of religious extremism. Has that made American investors wary of Ghana as an intolerant investment destination?” the MP quizzed.
View Sam George’s full post below:
Dear Virginia Palmer, US Ambassador to Ghana, I have seen videos of your comments at the US-Ghana Business Summit.
You have expressed fears that investors from the US would not find Ghana attractive if we as Ghanaians uphold our values and reject the depravity of LGBTQI. I find that really surprising.
Are American investors looking to invest in a Country and with partners who have no values? I thought the basic test of a potential partner is integrity and values? Ghana as you know is very intolerant of religious extremism.
Has that made American investors wary of Ghana as an intolerant investment destination?
Let me reassure you and the U.S. Embassy Ghana that Ghana remains welcoming and open to American investors as a stable, viable democracy. We welcome investors who value the principles of integrity and respect the cultural values of their partners.
I am confident it should not be a worry as our intended legislation is NOT different from American laws in states like Florida and Kentucky. I believe the US Supreme Court agrees largely with Ghana’s position.
Cheers to a mutually beneficial business relationship between Ghana and the US.
Senior Lecturer at theKumasi Technical University, Dr Samuel Afriyie, is alarmed by the amount of money spent by the Bank of Ghana on communication during the 2022 fiscal year.
The Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Bank of Ghana reveals that the institution spent GHS32,020,000 on Communication.
The BoG noted that the major item under communication is electronic data transmission charges, including the Reuters and Bloomberg platforms which support its reserve management and management of petroleum funds as well as currency and exchange rate constituted about 57.4% of the total communications cost.
This was followed by the publications and Gazettes (15%), Advertisement (10%), Newspapers local (0.75%) and Newspapers foreign (0.46%).
The jump in computer expenses was mainly the result of the Bank’s asset replacement policy which was implemented in 2022 where most of the Desktop computers were replaced with laptops.
All these hardware and software license purchases were in US dollars and the exchange rate depreciation and the inflation both domestically and globally impacted the cedi equivalent on the books of the central bank.
Speaking on Hello FM on August 10, Dr Samuel Afriyie, noted that the reasons being provided by the Central Bank do not add up.
He questioned the large sums of money spent on visiting the sites of Bloomberg and Reuters.
Concerned by the figure, he quizzed the Bank if it was running an advertisement for the late Queen Elizabeth II.
He said: “They cannot convince us. If you use data to check Bloomberg.. How is that expensive. We all use that site. Some of these things we need to be careful. I thought they had built a pole but heading to Bloomberg and Reuters…
“It’s like when you do something you look for ways and means to make things balance, but they need to come and convince us.
“Why, do you adversite for the Queen on Bloomberg? It is a data platform where you get information. How much would you pay?” he quizzed.
Air Commodore Eric Yirenkyi on August 10, 2023, assumed the role of Chief Staff Officer at the Air Force Headquarters, succeeding Air Commodore David Akrong.
During the formal handover ceremony, Air Commodore Akrong, who completed his tenure as Chief Staff Officer, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead and serve the Air Force.
He underscored the significance of teamwork and excellence in shaping the Ghana Air Force‘s future. He encouraged personnel to extend full support to the new Chief Staff Officer in fulfilling the mission and vision of the Air Force.
Accepting his new responsibilities, Air Commodore Yirenkyi acknowledged the challenges ahead and recognized the legacy left by his predecessor.
The handing-over proceedings were overseen by Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong, the Base Commander Accra, on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff.
He thanked the outgoing Chief Staff Officer for his dedicated service to the Ghana Air Force and expressed confidence in Air Commodore Akrong’s ability to excel in his new role as Deputy Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center (KAIPTC).
Air Commodore Agyen-Frempong extended a warm welcome to the new Chief Staff Officer and assured him of the support required to carry out his duties effectively.
The ceremony, attended by Senior Officers, concluded with a brief gathering involving Officers, Airmen/Airwomen, and Defence Civilian Staff, officially introducing the new Chief Staff Officer to the personnel.
One of the senior military officers promoted by President Akufo-Addo has been accused of engaging in illicit money collection from soldiers on peacekeeping assignments.
The officer, who is said to have previously held the rank of Brigadier-General is said to have sold United Nations Peacekeeping slots to soldiers not eligible for these missions since 2019, thereby depriving genuinely qualified soldiers of participating in peace missions to countries such as Sudan, The Gambia, Mali, and Lebanon.
The Herald Newspaper reports that the senior officer’s actions have led to some soldiers repeatedly embarking on these missions while others remained excluded.
The standard protocol in the Ghana Armed Forces stipulates that soldiers serve peacekeeping missions for a year at a rate of US$35 per day, and they must spend two years in Ghana post-mission before another deployment.
However, it is alleged that this officer manages to secure repeated trips for them at the cost of US$8,000.
Despite these serious allegations, the petition was reportedly disregarded by the military high command, and the accused senior officer has been promoted to a more sensitive role.
The identity of the said officer has not been disclosed. However, The Herald has released an alleged list of recently promoted officers.
Maj Gen Aryeetey – National College of Defence Studies (NCDS)
Maj Gen Onwona – GAFCSC Comdt
Brig Gen Aphour – Maj Gen DCOS Ops& trg
Brig Gen Gyandu – IPSO to Trg
Brig Gen Asiedu – Trg – IPSO
Brig Gen Tanye Kulono- NCDS Chied Coord
Ntiri – NCDS Snr DS
Brig Gen Gbedawo – GMA Dep Comdt
Brig Gen Wonje – COS at Boundary Commission
Paintsil – promoted Brig Gen – Comd ASOB
Col GKT Sam – Brig Gen
Col EV Abraham – promoted Brig Gen – Critical Care Hosp Comd
Col Vander Pallen – Brig Gen
Col Salifu- promoted Brig Gen
Col RK Mensah- Dep Comd ASOB
Col KKK Afriffah – HQ TRADOC Chief Coord
Col Wiafe – DES
Col Narh – ACTS Comd
Col Mensah Yawson – Dep Comd Armd Bde
Col Appoh – GHQ DID
Col Atuluk – GMA D Mil Div
Col AY Owusu – Att to Natl Sy
Col Ackah – A/ASEC.
Col Obiri Yeboah – Army HQ, Chief G5. Promoted
Col Buah – GAFCSC (Jnr), CI, Academic Studies. Promoted
Col Ohemeng – Army HQ, Chief G2 (Trg). Promoted
Col Debrah – R List. Promoted
Lt Col Atiogbe – promoted to Col
Lt Col Tenadu – CO 3 Bn
Lt Col Boakye CO ABF
Lt Col Asampong -CO 10 Mech Bn
Lt Col Adams – appt Comd Rear 1 Bn DTBN
Lt Col IK Boako – CO 11 Mech Bn
Lt Col Owusu Afriyie – CO 5 Bn
Lt Col Korsah -153 Armd Regt
Lt Col Cudjoe – CO JWS
Lt Col Issah – CO ATS
Lt Col Tetteh – CO STS
Lt Col Appau – Jubilee House, office of COS
Lt Col Twumasi – CO 81 Sig Regt
Lt Col Essel – CO Def Sig Regt
Lt Col Avorke – CO BSD
Lt Col Luri – CO Base Workshop
Lt Col Odoom – CO EMETTS
Lt Col Sedor- DS GAFCSC
Lt Col Poku – DS GAFCSC
Lt Col Terpkertey – R List
Lt Col Hassim – DS GAFCSC
Lt Col Korsah – CO 153
Lt Col Issah – CO ATS
The Ghana Armed Forces is yet to react to this claim.
The Ministry of Roads and Highways is set to initiate swift measures by constructing temporary bridges and pathways on sections of roads within the North East Region that were washed away by recent floods on Wednesday.
Extensive flooding caused parts of the West Mamprusi and East Mamprusi municipalities to be submerged during a four-hour heavy downpour.
The town of Walewale, serving as the West Mamprusi Municipal capital, has become isolated from Nalerigu, the regional capital, due to the destruction of a bridge and dam at Tinguri by the floods. Consequently, the main road connecting these two towns has become impassable.
The aftermath of this situation has resulted in displaced residents and stranded passengers, affecting several communities including Gaagbini, Tinguri, Mimima, Kuruguduri, Walewale, and Nalerigu. The floods have also caused damage to homes, farmlands, livestock, and property.
Despite efforts by NADMO to aid victims, Nalerigu remains inaccessible, prompting the Ministry of Roads and Highways to respond promptly.
The Deputy Minister of Roads and Highways, Stephen Jalulah, announced that the immediate solution involves the construction of temporary walkways and alternative routes to ensure passage on the roads.
North East Regional Minister, Yidana Zakaria, the Chief Executive of the West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly, Issahaku Aremeyaw Somo, the Member of Parliament for Nalerigu/Gambaga, Issifu Seidu Baba, as well as technical personnel from the ministry and road sector agencies, the Deputy Minister embarked on a tour.
During this tour, the delegation visited the heavily affected areas of Gaagbini, Tinguri, Nalerigu, and Gbuntiri, all of which had been severely impacted by the calamity.
Additionally, the ministry plans to permanently repair the roads in the upcoming weeks and install additional culverts to mitigate the impact of future flooding.
The funeral of the Founder and Overseer of the Resurrection Power New Generation Church, the late Rev. Anthony Boakye, is currently the talk of town.
The recent discussion has nothing to do with who the clergyman was as he was popular, but his final resting place has been a subject matter since his burial.
The event attracted the presence of Ghana’s President, Nana Akufo-Addo.
One of the remarkable aspects of the funeral was its occurrence across three significant venues in Accra: the Independence Square, the Accra Sports Stadium, and the Accra International Conference Center (AICC). Throughout the three-day ceremony, long queues formed outside these venues as well-wishers, sympathizers, and family members assembled to commemorate his life.
A detailed, 10-minute video shared by Zionfelix on Instagram, created by Continent Kofi, spotlighted various aspects of the event, including the elaborate final resting place prepared for Rev. Anthony Boakye.
Although the precise location of this resting place remains undisclosed, what is known is the edifice is remarkable, grand, and sophisticated. Many are left in awe.
Rev. Anthony Boakye’s persona had been surrounded by two major themes before and after his passing. Firstly, there were rumors of an unresolved conflict between him and his wife, Rev. Mrs. Margaret Boakye. Furthermore, his death coincided with controversies over whether his funeral should have proceeded.
Prior to his demise, there were speculations that he had disagreements with his wife, who allegedly aimed to assume control of their church while he was incapacitated due to illness.
Following his passing, these issues escalated. His widow faced restrictions from participating in the One Week Celebration of his death and was subsequently prohibited from attending the funeral.
Despite legal injunctions sought by Rev. Mrs. Margaret Boakye to halt the funeral, the elaborate commemoration of the late clergyman proceeded as planned.
Ghana is strongly advocating for the inclusion of local content in its discussions with potential vendors for the nation’s inaugural nuclear power plant.
This initiative aims to maximize the utilization of Ghanaian expertise, products, services, workforce, businesses, and financing within the nuclear power program.
Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), Dr. Stephen Yamoah, conveyed this intention during a media interaction in Accra organized by the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA). The event centered on the theme, “The Role of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority in Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme.”
The occasion also served as an opportunity to recognize the achievement of four journalists who were recipients of the NRA Media Awards.
The awardees are Albert Oppong-Ansah from the Ghana News Agency (Best Online Report), Joyce Gyekye from the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (Best Radio Reporter/Overall Best), Juliet Sarfo from the Daily Graphic (Best Print Reporter), and Samuel Kojo Brace from Multimedia (Best Broadcast Reporter).
Dr. Yamoah highlighted that NPG, as the entity responsible for the power plant, is actively engaging with stakeholders, including the Association of Ghana Industries, to address standards and capacities required to capitalize on opportunities within the sector.
“Our local industries have an important role to play and they need to brace themselves for the task ahead. For instance, at the construction stage, there are opportunities for carpenters, electricians, iron workers, insulators, masons, laboures and painters,” he said.
“However, if we push for local content and we get it and we are unable to deliver, it will be risky and costly to us. The dome of the nuclear Plant has a steel component. When this is awarded to a local vendor, a good job is expected, not a poor job where the vendor will use scrap metals as raw materials.”
The NPG, he stated, was also engaging with tertiary technical and vocational institutions to train students on the required capacities.
Dr Yamoah said the nuclear power programme was expected to “take shape” with the selection of a partner and technology by the end of the year 2023.
Dr. Archibold Buah-Kwofi, Deputy Director of Nuclear Power Institute of the Ghana Atomic Energy (NPI-GAEC), said the success and sustainability of Ghana’s nuclear Plant required sustained human resource flow for the entire life-cycle of the Plant.
“Education and training, therefore, become key to achieving this skill development. The project success partly hinged on having sufficient numbers of qualified technicians,” he said.
Dr Buah-Kwofi said highly qualified, well-trained technicians were needed to ensure safe and reliable nuclear power plants during construction and operation.
Dr. Nii Kwashie Allotey, the Director-General of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority, said the Authority was committed to ensuring that safety, security, and safeguards were prioritised as the country prepared to build a nuclear power Plant.
“The role of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority is to ensure that everything being done in the three critical areas of safety, security, and safeguards is done safely. We protect humans and the environment against radiation so, we make sure that everything is done safely,” he said.
Dr Allotey said the NRA was building the capacity of its staff and forming partnerships with other international bodies to benefit from their expertise.
North East Regional Minister, Yidana Zakaria, has conveyed his appreciation to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his prompt response in initiating repair works on the Gbanni-Tinguri road and bridge, which suffered damage due to severe floods.
A prolonged heavy rainfall on Wednesday wreaked havoc in various parts of the North East Region, leading to the collapse of the Gbanni-Tinguri bridge on the Walewale-Nalerigu road and causing damage to sections of the road.
Reacting swiftly to the distressing incident that left many stranded, Vice President Dr. Bawumia intervened by coordinating the involvement of NADMO and the Ministry of Roads to assess the affected area and promptly commence repairs on both the bridge and road, aiming to restore normal transportation services.
This initiative was disclosed by the North East Regional Minister.
On Thursday, the Deputy Minister of Roads, Stephen Jalula, and the Chief Director of the Ministry, Dr. Abass Awolu, visited the impacted location to evaluate the extent of damage. Immediate repair activities have been scheduled to commence.
Expressing relief at the prompt action taken by the Ministry of Roads to address the issue, the Regional Minister commended Dr. Bawumia for his effective response.
“I want to commend the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for his concern and swift intervention. He got officials of the Ministry of Roads to visit here immediately to assess the situation, and the process of bringing relief begins,” he said.
He also confirmed that officials of NADMO have been on sight, and are mobilising relief items to affected persons and households.
Deputy Minister for Education, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has disclosed that there exists sufficient capacity to accommodate all 600,714 candidates participating in this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
Rev. Fordjour emphasized that the key requirement was for these candidates to successfully pass the BECE, which would then enable them to access the transformative Free SHS initiative.
He made this statement during an engagement with BECE candidates as they underwent their examination at St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High School in Accra on Wednesday.
Accompanied by the Director of Education for Greater Accra, Mr. Stephen Bamfo, the Deputy Minister assured the candidates of the government’s unwavering commitment to implementing measures that ensure optimal support for their educational pursuits.
“Free High School (FSH)/ Free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (FTVET) await you, so work hard to benefit from the novel policy to shape your future dreams”. He said.
The Member of Parliament for Assin South also advised the candidates to concentrate on their own capabilities and refrain from seeking assistance from others, as they each had distinct sets of questions despite sharing the same examination hall.
He further dispelled rumors that Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) was going to be cancelled, saying, “there has not been any discussion or policy to terminate BECE today or tomorrow, the notion should be disregarded.”
“The West African Examination Council (WAEC) remains our partner in education development. We will keep resourcing WAEC so it would continue to discharge its mandate as required of them,” he added.
Rev. Ntim Fordjour acknowledged the significant supportive role that WAEC has consistently played in advancing education within the country. He noted that occasional financial assistance is provided to them based on their requirements and program objectives.
The Deputy Minister expressed regret over a limited number of isolated incidents that occurred at specific examination centers across the nation, labeling them as deeply unfortunate occurrences.
He affirmed that those implicated in these incidents would face severe consequences as a means to instruct and discourage others from engaging in examination misconduct.
Rev. Ntim Fordjour maintained an optimistic perspective, attributing the arrest of a number of educators to the stringent measures implemented to combat all forms of examination malpractice.
Meanwhile, the 2023 BECE is expected to come to a successful end today.
Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has highlighted the judiciary’s unyielding commitment to enhancing the caliber of justice provided, even though there remains significant room for further progress.
She emphasized that in addition to establishing physical courtrooms and refining procedural protocols, the Judicial Service is equally dedicated to cultivating higher ethical standards among its personnel.
Chief Justice Torkornoo made these remarks during the inauguration ceremony of the Ayensuano District Court situated in Kraboa Coaltar, Eastern Region.
The inaugurated courthouse is a part of the government’s nationwide initiative launched in 2020 to construct 100 courthouses, aimed at elevating the state of judicial infrastructure.
This facility boasts ample office space to accommodate diverse court functions, restrooms for both staff and court users, segregated male and female detention cells.
Moreover, it is equipped with solar power systems for essential functions, a backup generator, and a borehole to ensure sustainable water supply. Additionally, a dedicated area has been designated for Court Connected Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), furnished with a Direct Transcription System to expedite the adjudication process.
She said through training and Codes of Conduct, “we are demanding accountable service, independence from conflict of interest and integrity from all our officers around the country.”
She said justice was the quality of satisfaction that people must have, when they were given what they deserved in accordance with what the law relating their action or transaction had directed.
“As Ghana has grown as a society, regulations have been increasingly crafted to assist the less privileged in society to access justice through less complex rules of Court, automation of court services and provision of ADR facilities,” she said.
The Chief Justice said they were facilitating greater access to justice for the most vulnerable, including the physically challenged and those already incarcerated.
She said through the Court, “we will be able to ensure that fewer people contemplate the use of extra-judicial avenues of seeking redress and resolving disputes.”
Justice Torkornoo remarked that by utilizing the Court, a greater number of individuals could witness the administration of justice up close. This, in turn, would help foster confidence in commercial activities and property investment.
“Because when the rule of law is established in any society, it delivers another promise, apart from order and justice already discussed and that promise is a promise of prosperity and development,” she added.
She said the people were assured of the safety of their people and assets, they were assured of the stability of the environment in which they lived.
Madam Josepine Awuku Ansaa Inkoom, the District Chief Executive of Ayensuano District Assembly, said, “Our collective efforts have culminated in the establishment of this modern facility which is designed to promote effective justice delivery for our constituents.”
She said access to justice was a fundamental human right that every citizen deserves and “today we take a significant step in demonstrating our dedication to ensuring a fair and equitable justice system for all.”
She emphasized that their dedication was firmly grounded in their resolve to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the rights of every individual. A robust and accessible justice system, she noted, stood as a fundamental pillar of a prosperous community, fostering confidence, tranquility, stability, and societal cohesion.
The District Chief Executive highlighted that it was evident to all that without a functioning judiciary, the socio-economic progress of any society would be impeded.
“Whilst the constitution enjoins the District Assembly to ensure ready access to courts for the promotion of justice, we are also expected to cooperate with the appropriate local security Agencies for the maintenance of security and public safety so that citizens can go out and conduct their daily activities without fear and panic,” she added.
She urged members of the community, government agencies, and civil society organizations in the district to collaborate with you in our quest to achieve justice for all.
The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GA/RCC) has acknowledged and honored 5,904 frontline healthcare workers for their significant contributions to combatting the COVID-19 pandemic within the region.
During a presentation event in Accra held yesterday, Henry Quartey, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, praised these workers for their unwavering dedication and unwavering commitment, both of which played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of measures aimed at containing the spread of the virus.
The objective behind the awards is to formally recognize and celebrate the endeavors of these workers during the pandemic. This recognition serves as an incentive for not only healthcare personnel, but also those in various sectors, by conveying that their diligent efforts are genuinely valued.
Among the honorees are individuals who served as contact tracers, drivers, researchers, disease control and surveillance teams, laboratory technicians, nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and buriers.
These individuals represented a diverse array of health and other institutions entrusted with spearheading the pandemic response efforts.
Reflecting on the region’s encounter with COVID-19, Mr. Quartey highlighted that it emerged as the primary hub of the pandemic within the nation, accounting for over 50% of all reported cases.
Consequently, this situation exerted excessive strain on healthcare facilities and staff, resulting in certain personnel exceeding their regular duties and stretching their capabilities to manage the pandemic effectively.
In response, the Regional Minister commended healthcare personnel and fellow citizens for their resourcefulness, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit, which complemented the government’s efforts to contain the disease’s propagation.
“The period saw the invention and reinvention of tools, materials and processes to support the fight.
It also showed how together, we are able to achieve plenty.
“Our facilities were tested, our personnel were tested and our nation was tested, but we showed tenacity and resilience.
“At our worst, when some of the suburbs of Accra were locked down, notwithstanding the usual Ghanaian nature of flouting every rule, we survived the heat and men and women of the health profession were all out ensuring we overcame the pandemic,” Mr Quartey said.
He expressed gratitude to health professionals who contracted the virus and those who lost their lives in the line of duty and service to the nation, saying that they would be remembered forever.
“Through your hard work and dedication, and the commitment of the government, Ghana was among the first nations that received lots of commendation for the measures put in place to contain the virus and was thus part of the first countries to be declared best fighters against COVID-19. We are here today because of you.
The nation honours you today as a recognition of your unwavering fight to the pandemic,” Mr Quartey stated.
Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, has revealed that collaborative efforts are being undertaken with various agencies to establish strategies that will better prepare the country for potential future outbreaks.
These strategies encompass bolstering infection prevention and control measures, ensuring the availability of essential medications, refining early warning systems, and enhancing overall public health responses.
Acknowledging the government’s recognition, Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Asiamah, the Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Directors of Health, expressed gratitude while underscoring the lack of an insurance policy for healthcare workers. He emphasized that this absence serves as a demotivating factor for health workers, who face diverse risks while delivering their services.
Rev. Dr. Asiamah urged the government to integrate health workers’ perspectives into the formulation of national policies and create an environment that encourages health professionals to willingly serve in rural areas.
A minor has been arrested for reportedly having sex with a pregnant dog in Wassa Adesu, in the Amenfi East municipality of the Western Region.
According to reports, Nana was allegedly caught in the act by a bystander who overheard the dog howling from a public restroom.
Nana, who had apparently covered the dog’s mouth and shut the door to the bathhouse with a rag to hide the act from view, was discovered with the dog, which was almost due to give birth.
Following his arrest, Nana, who was later identified as a Pragyia driver (of a tricycle), was brought to the Wassa Akropong government hospital for additional testing together with the pregnant dog.
According to the hospital’s first findings, Nana’s physical examinations revealed canine sperm in his system, pointing to a possible sexual encounter with the animal. The community was in disbelief after learning that the doctor’s evaluation looked to support the accusations.
Investigators were reportedly told by the dog’s owner, who was revealed to be Nana’s landlord, that Nana had been having several sexual encounters with the dog, which she believes are the cause of the dog’s repeated miscarriages over time.
“According to witnesses, someone passing by the bathhouse heard the dog cries and rushed to the scene, and saw Nana having sex with the dog. The dog in question is named Nnye. The individual who discovered the act raised an alarm to alert the residents, prompting them to gather and watch him.
“The owner of the dog was notified and both the dog and the perpetrator were taken to the Wassa Akropong government hospital for examination. Following a physical examination, the doctor’s report confirmed the presence of dog sperm in Nana’s system, suggesting a sexual encounter between him and the dog.
“The landlady revealed that the dog had been experiencing miscarriages over an extended period whenever it became pregnant. She said that maybe because Nana has been having sex with the dog that is why.
“The doctor overseeing the case has announced the intention to conduct further tests on the dog. The purpose of these tests is to determine whether the pregnancy is indeed a dog or human being, he said the results of these tests will be ready on Monday.”
An illegal miner has made a disturbing admission, confessing to the gruesome act of sacrificing newborn babies on galamsey sites in exchange for gold.
A deeply disturbing video is circulating on social media, where the man, who remains anonymous, expresses remorse for his heinous actions and divulges chilling details about this horrifying practice.
He explained in Twi, a local dialect, that some illegal miners connive with some nurses in hospitals to smuggle newborn babies, which they buy and take to galamsey sites.
On the site, the baby’s head is cracked open into the galamsey pit for rituals, which he claims the blood generates more gold for the miners to collect and sell for money.
“When we buy the fresh babies from the nurses, they are taken to the underground, killed, by cracking them hard on the walls of the pit and the blood is used for rituals. The death of the human being is necessary to make the land act on their demands for more gold,” he said in an interview on Angel FM.
He added that when this happens, no one else is able to mine more gold than those who were involved in the sacrifice.
Implying that a miner can mine more gold in an area but another person will find it difficult to access just a piece of gold.
The narrator further revealed that some miners also kill their fellow miners for rituals in the course of their work.
Attributing the cause of death to the notion that “Asaase akasa”, to wit, “the earth has spoken”.
“Your own fellow miner can pick a rod while you are in the pit. He will deliberately use the rod to release huge already loose stones on you and say it is a natural act by the earth,” he expressed.
The video has sparked outrage and condemnation from social media users, who have called for justice and protection for innocent lives.
Galamsey is a term used to describe illegal mining activities in Ghana, which have caused serious environmental damage and health risks.
The government has launched several campaigns and operations to clamp down on galamsey, but the practice persists due to various factors.
RE: RESPONSE TO PARLIAMENT’S MINORITY GROUP ON BANK OF GHANA’S 2022 PUBLISHED ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The NDC Caucus in Parliament has noted with dismay a press statement from the Bank of Ghana dated 9th August, 2023 which purports to respond to our press conference on the above-subject held on 8th August, 2023.
In the said press statement, the Bank of Ghana attempts to shamelessly justify its recklessness and mismanagement, which resulted in the huge losses of GHS60.8 billion and the negative equity of GHS55.1 billion it recorded in the year 2022.
As a matter of fact, the Bank of Ghana’s unsigned press statement, is full of deliberate distortions and flimsy justifications which do not address the serious matters that were raised in our Moment of Truth presser last Tuesday.
The Minority caucus hereby responds as follows:
The referenced Bank of Ghana’s statement does not address the most fundamental issue which has to do with the printing of money by BOG for the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government in 2021 and 2022 in clear contravention of Section 30 of the Bank of Ghana (Amendment) Act, 2016 (ACT 918). Indeed, throughout the statement, BOG does not and could not have offered any reasonable justification for printing a whopping GHS35 billion in 2021 and GHS42 billion in 2022 to finance the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government, in clear breach of their governing law.
It is an indisputable fact, that the amount of monies printed by BOG for the reckless Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government both in 2021 and 2022 far exceeds the legally acceptable threshold of 5% of the previous fiscal years’ total revenue.
This the Bank did without cognizance of the legal duty imposed on the Governor of BOG to inform the Minister of Finance, who is required upon notification from the Governor of BOG to notify Parliament of the attainment of the 5% threshold and/or the setting of a new limit of government’s borrowing.
Indeed, the facts show that BOG acted as law unto itself by willfully engaging in the illegal printing of monies to finance the recklessness of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government both in 2021 and 2022.
This illegal conduct of the Governor of BOG constitutes a criminal offense under section 67 of the Bank of Ghana Act and cannot be wished away by the flimsy justifications mounted by the Bank in the multiple press statements they have issued in the last couple of days.
As a matter of fact, contrary to claims by the Governor of the Central Bank and his deputies that they were committed to promoting a cash-lite economy, they have been printing higher denominations of new GHS100 and GHS200 notes.
This together with the large injections of money into the economy caused currency-outside-banks to increase from GH¢14 billion in 2019 to GHȼ31.4 billion by 2022, representing an increase of over 124%.
Strangely, while the BoG kept increasing its policy rate and undertaking these injections at the same time, they knew very well that their actions could spike inflation and result in the Bank incurring significant costs.
As a direct consequence of the illegal printing of monies by the Bank of Ghana, the rate of inflation in the country spiraled to hyper levels last year, when Ghana recorded a record-high inflation rate of 54.1% in December 2022.
It bears reminding the Bank of Ghana that according to a recent World Bank report, this hyperinflation which was mainly occasioned by their recklessness and mismanagement, pushed over 850,000 people into poverty.
It is therefore totally irresponsible for the managers of the Bank of Ghana to conveniently ignore these serious legal infractions which have brought untold hardships on Ghanaians and rather engage in flimsy justifications and needless equalizations.
Secondly, on the very important issue of the illegal write-off of about GHS48 billion debt owed by the government to the Bank of Ghana, the explanation canvassed by the Central Bank in its statement of 9th August, 2023 is untenable, as it has no legal basis whatsoever.
The Bank of Ghana ought to know, that the mere reference to Government’s intention to engage in a domestic debt exchange program (DDEP) as communicated by the Finance Minister in the 2023 budget statement to Parliament, does not and cannot justify the bank’s breach of section 53 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016.
For emphasis, a mere declaration of intent to Parliament by the government to engage in debt restructuring does not amount to a resolution or approval by Parliament for BOG to write-off public funds. Neither does the IFRS accounting standard referred to by the Bank of Ghana permit the writing-off of public funds without Parliamentary approval.
We wish to state unequivocally for the records, that at no point has the Finance Minister presented a report to Parliament informing the house of the attainment of the 5% borrowing threshold or the setting of a new limit of government borrowing as required by section 30 of the Bank of Ghana Act. Nor has the Finance Minister sought the approval of Parliament for BOG to write-off any public funds, as required by section 53 of Public Financial Management Act 2016 (Act, 918).
The Bank of Ghana must do the needful by immediately reinstating the illegally written off liability of Government and stop the baseless justifications they are mounting.
It is instructive to note that, the Bank of Ghana has for the first time admitted that Ghana’s present economic malaise has been accessioned by a “culmination of fiscal overruns and debt distress” which resulted in Ghana losing access to both domestic and international markets, with its attendant credit rating downgrades, high currency depreciation, hyperinflation among others.
It is worthy of note, that for the first time, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana has effectively confessed, that COVID-19 and the Russia Ukraine war are not the main causes of our present economic woes as a country, but rather “fiscal overruns and debt distress” starting from 2019.
This confession by the Bank of Ghana, confirms the NDC’s long-held view that the economic mess we have on our hands is the product of the reckless borrowing and expenditures of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government.
Sadly, instead of advising the government to embark on the needed fiscal reforms and adjustments, the Bank of Ghana confesses that they decided to fund the recklessness of the government by engaging in the illegal printing of monies for the government, part of which they have illegally written off without recourse to Parliament.
The managers of the Bank of Ghana must recognise that the economic difficulties it alludes to in its statement of 9th August, 2023 are all self-inflicted and cannot be reasonable justification for the palpable illegalities they have engaged in and the unprecedented mess they have created.
Additionally, we wish to make the point, that none of the explanations put forward by the Bank of Ghana in its press statement of 9th August, 2023 can rationalize or justify the outrageous operational expenditures they engaged in 2022, as reported by their Auditors in the 2022 Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Bank.
We maintain, that despite the high rate of inflation and currency depreciation recorded last year as a result of the recklessness of BOG and the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government, it was unconscionable and unacceptable for BOG to have spent a staggering GHS131.6 million on vehicle maintenance; GHS67.9 million on computer-related expenses; GHS97.4 million on foreign and domestic travels; GHS32 million on communication expenses; and GHS357.9 million on banking supervision, in 2022 alone.
We say so because the severe economic difficulties the nation has been plunged into by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government with the abetment of BOG, calls for prudence and austerity by all state institutions including the Central Bank.
It is totally reprehensible, that the fees of the very Directors who have supervised this mess were increased by about 80% in the year 2022 alone.
Even more bizarre is the contrived justification for the new BOG head office which is costing the taxpayer a colossal $250 million (GHS3 billion) at this time of excruciating hardships for the nation.
The excuse that the current Bank of Ghana Head office is not earthquake resistant is most ridiculous to say the least.
We need not remind the Bank of Ghana that previous Governors and Directors of the bank maximized the operations and profit of the bank from that same old facility by deploying more reasonable options of relocating aspects of the bank’s operations to the Cedi House and another facility of the Bank on the Spintex Road.
The question BOG must answer is that; if at the time the Bank of Ghana recorded successive years of profit under NDC/Mahama government (2012-2016), the managers of the bank did not consider a new office complex an urgent priority but rather invested in the construction of the BOG hospital to support the healthcare needs of the country, how can BOG prioritize a new $250 million dollar office complex at a time it has recorded an unprecedented loss of GHS60.8 billion and a negative equity of GHS55.1 billion?
It is instructive to note, that the cost of the ill-timed new head office complex the BOG is rapidly putting up is four times the cost of the ultramodern Ecobank Head Office building and six times the cost of Kempinski hotel in Accra.
In fact, our conservative estimates show that the cost of the new head office complex the BOG is putting up can build at least, 3,750 new six (6)-unit classroom blocks to expand access to education or at least 3,500 CHP compounds to improve the access to health care delivery in the country.
It is also instructive to note, that the cost of the new Bank of Ghana head office complex is more than the capital expenditure allocation of the Ministry of Roads and Highways and the Ministry of Transport put together.
Clearly, the outrageously expensive new head office complex of BOG is a misplaced priority. There can be absolutely no justification whatsoever for this profligacy at a time the Bank of Ghana must be concerned about its immediate recapitalization.
In the BOG press release dated August 9, 2023 the Governor stated that “ This financial outcome has very little implication for the operations of the Bank of Ghana as supported by evidence from other Central banks”.
This statement is completely erroneous and must be treated with utmost contempt. The truth of the matter is that the Central banks BOG is referring to, did not underwrite the insolvency or bankruptcy of their Governments. Neither did they violate their governing laws with impunity as BOG has done. Hence, they would have space to absorb temporary losses unlike BOG.
The unprecedented losses incurred by BOG counts for various reasons and must not be taken lightly at all.
The BOG must understand that losses can reduce its gravitas and authority in supervising the financial sector. Also, losses can limit its ability to engage in effective monetary operations and impair its ability to use moral suasion in the discharge of its mandate.
In their press statement of August 1, 2023, BOG referred to a statement by the external auditors that “even though BOG would have a significant negative equity based on the huge impairment from 2022, structures are in place to ensure that the BOG remains policy solvent and well able to deliver on its primary mandate”.
This is clearly a misleading statement because it assumes that government would be able to recapitalize BOG over time and that the achievement of macroeconomic stability would in turn restore policy solvency to BOG.
As BOG itself stated, “the inability to cover costs and build sufficient buffers over the long term may require capital injection from the government which can undermine its independence and credibility of monetary policy and also affect public confidence in the Central bank’s operations”.
We must be mindful of government’s fiscal difficulties, hence the possibility that it may now be able to recapitalize BOG any time soon.
Also, there could be exogenous shocks that can impact the economy going forward which can result in macroeconomic instability and a continued depreciation of the cedi, for which BOG could experience huge losses again.
Therefore, the assessment of the External Auditors that the Central Bank will continue to remain policy solvent and discharge its mandate effectively should not be taken as a guarantee at all.
Again, the impression should not be created as though BOG’s source of funding its operations is infinite. As BOG itself stated in its statement dated August 1, 2023, “a Central bank policy solvency is the ongoing ability to fund and implement operations in line with the policy aims for which it has independent responsibility without recourse to the government. Therefore, policy solvency requires sufficient realized revenues to cover costs and to build longer-term capital reserves allowing for independent and appropriate policy decisions”.
Again, in their press statement dated August 1, 2023, BOG engaged in some unnecessary equalization by referring to other Central banks (not its peers) that have operated with negative equity. It also raised the issue of whether there is a difference between insolvency and negative equity; and, whether other Central banks (again not its peers) made losses in 2022.
The fact remains that the countries cited by BOG are all advanced industrialized countries with different economic structures.
Moreover, those countries did not finance their respective governments excessively, as BOG has done since 2019. Nor did they underwrite the insolvency of their governments like BOG has done.
BOG should rather pay heed and listen to criticisms and stop the window dressing of the dire straits it finds itself in. BOG should accept that the Bank is at a historic low and request immediate help to coerce government to prioritize re-financing the Bank as a matter of urgency.
CONCLUSION There is no gainsaying the fact that, the Governor, his deputies and directors of BOG have compromised their independence and made their continuous stay in office untenable.
Their failed attempt to cite non-best practice as justification for their recklessness and mismanagement is most irresponsible to say the least, and yet another reason why they should pack out of the Bank of Ghana immediately
The fate of BOG now hangs solely on the ability of the bankrupt Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP Government to recapitalize it.
In fact, it will take the nation more than 20 years to fix the mess that the current managers of BOG have created and move the bank from its current negative GHS55.1 billion equity to positive equity.
There is an urgent need for BOG’s internal operations to be reviewed to ensure that no losses would be posted or repeated this year.
The Governor, his deputies and entire Board have failed the nation and must resign without delay to begin the process of saving the BOG.
Parliament’s Majority Leader, Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu, is of the view that betting will render the Ghanaian population idle as it does not encourage hard work.
He made this statement while responding to the 10% withholding tax on all total gaming winnings, starting on Tuesday, August 15.
During an interview on Angel FM, a Kumasi-based radio station, the Member of Parliament for Suame advised young individuals to prioritize industriousness over gambling.
“I don’t believe in betting. I don’t believe in luck. I believe in hard work and sweating to get money. Let’s be serious. As for me, I’m against betting coming into the country. I don’t support it because it doesn’t encourage hard work.”
“As an individual, I don’t engage in lottery because I don’t believe in that. I don’t believe in luck. Work hard so God will bless it.”
BETTING TAX
Majority leader in Parliament, Hon Kyei Mensah Bonsu supports tax on betting.
Says he detests betting because it doesn’t encourage hard and that those who say betting should be seen as work should know that stealing is also someone’s work.
Starting August 15, 2023, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) will initiate the enforcement of a 10% withholding tax on all overall gaming winnings.
The GRA has clarified that the preceding 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) rate applied to each wager will no longer be in effect. Instead, the withholding tax will be imposed on the profits generated after each successful win.
The GRA elaborated that this adjustment aligns with the modification introduced in the Income Tax Act 2023 (No.2), Act 1094.
Edward Gyamerah, a Commissioner within the GRA’s Domestic Tax Revenue Division, emphasized that stringent measures will be taken against any gaming company that fails to comply with the updated regulation.
Gyamerah pointed out that companies that violate this law will face penalties, including the possibility of having their licenses rescinded.
2024 flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has chided the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr Ernest Addson, for failing to assume responsibility for the recent loss incurred by the institution.
The Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Bank of Ghana reveals that the institution incurred a loss of GH¢60.8 billion for the 2022 fiscal year.
The Central Bank explained that a significant portion of the overall GH₵60 billion loss, specifically GH₵53.1 billion, can be attributed to the government’s implementation of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).
In response, former President John Mahama, noted that Dr Ernest Addson has decided to use the government’s Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) as a cover to conceal his ineffectiveness.
In a Facebook post on August 10, he compared Dr Addsion, whom he alleges is being controlled by the government, to Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, whom he also says has blamed Covid-19 and the Russia/Ukraine war for Ghana’s economic crisis due to his incompetence.
“An incompetent Finance Minister damages the economy and uses Covid-19 and Ukraine/Russia war as cover-ups. A pliant Governor destroys the Central Bank and seeks to use the Domestic Debt Exchange (DDE) as a cover,” he wrote.
The Bank of Ghana insists that it intervened to mitigate a substantial economic and societal predicament arising from the failure of the DDEP.
“The Bank of Ghana was used to close the gap to enable Ghana to meet the debt threshold that qualified Ghana for the IMF programme. The Bank of Ghana, therefore, acted as a loss absorber,” a statement from the Central Bank posted.
The Bank of Ghana further elaborated that a subsequent deterioration in Ghana’s sovereign debt rating, resulting in the restriction of the nation’s access to international capital market borrowing, was the catalyst for a liquidity crisis.
This crisis, in turn, had cascading effects, leading to a broader balance of payments crisis.
Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament is demanding the immediate removal of Dr Ernest Addison over the “mismanagement” of the Central Bank.
John Dumelo, known as both an actor and a politician, has responded to the withdrawal of Fred Nuamah, one of his contenders in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency.
In a tweet posted on August 8, 2023, Dumelo revealed that he had communicated with Fred Nuamah and expressed gratitude for his decision to step back from the race.
He further stated that he currently has Fred’s support, as such, he is determined to secure victory in the Ayawaso West Wuogon seat against the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Additionally, he aims to contribute to the return of former President John Dramani Mahama come 2025.
“I just got off the phone with Fred Nuamah. I thanked him for stepping down and throwing his support behind me.
“Together we will make sure I win the Ayawaso West parliamentary seat for the NDC and also make sure @JDMahama becomes president in 2025,” parts of the tweet he shared, reads.
Fred Nuamah takes a step back
Fred Nuamah’s letter of withdrawal was directed to the General Secretary of the NDC and the chairman of the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency.
“I firmly believe that the NDC must present a unified front for the 2024 general elections. As a dedicated member of the NDC, I prioritize the party’s unity and the President John Mahama project aimed at rescuing our country.
“I wholeheartedly endorse and throw my support behind my good friend and brother, Mr. John Dumelo, to be the parliamentary candidate for the NDC in the Ayawaso West-Wuogon constituency,” the letter stated in part.
Director of Communications at the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, has successfully submitted his nomination to participate in the parliamentary primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the Awutu Senya West constituency.
Amidst an enthusiastic gathering of party members, Mr. Arhin submitted his nomination on Wednesday, August 9, at the constituency office of the party.
In a subsequent Facebook post on Thursday, August 10, he expressed his gratitude for the significant support he has received from the constituents and pledged not to let them down.
He conveyed his sense of being overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and assured the party delegates of his unwavering dedication to their cause.
“Yesterday, 9th August 2023, I successfully filed my nomination forms to contest the NPP Parliamentary Primaries in the Awutu Senya West Constituency.”
“I was overwhelmed by the show of support for my candidature by the rank and file of the Party in the constituency, which can only spur me on to victory in the primaries and, God willing, in the parliamentary election on 7th December 2024.”
He added that he is focused on reclaiming the seat for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“The quest to turn Awutu Senya West BLUE has commenced,” he concluded.
Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, has indicated that businessmen Osei-Kwame Despite and Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong have announced their intention to veer into poultry farming.
Osei-Kwame is the Chief Executive Officer of Despite Firm Limited, a trade company with subsidiaries in the media industry, including UTV, Peace FM; whereas Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong is the Chief Executive Officer of Special Ice Limited, Co-founder of Best Point Savings Loan.
In an interview on Peace FM’s Kokroko with host Kwame Sefa Kayi, Mr Acheampong recounted that the two men pitched the idea of investing in poultry farming while he engaged some individuals.
He noted that upon concluding his discussion with some stakeholders, Osei-Kwame Despite and Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong approached him. He then informed him of how much would be needed to set up a poultry farm business.
According to the Agric Minister, all they then asked for was land.
“So I am working on a land for them at Dawhenya and they have assured me that they will build one of the biggest poultry farms in this country. So when you share your challenges, you get them resolved. It is good for business and the country,” he added.
Poultry production in Ghana has a great value on the country’s economy, accounting for 14% of the country’s total gross domestic product, according to reports as of 2022.
National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has cautioned President Akufo-Addo against the deployment of Ghanaian troops to Niger to resolve its current military takeover.
During an interview on Asempa FM on August 9, 2023, Asiedu Nketiah regarded the proposition by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leaders to dispatch troops for the removal of the new military regime in Niger as futile.
Asiedu Nketiah urged all citizens of Ghana to voice their concerns and insist that Ghanaian soldiers not be dispatched to Niger for combat, asserting that such an endeavor would lead to the loss of lives for a purpose he deemed unproductive.
“… they should not play the fool with the lives of our brothers and uncles in this useless exercise. We are not taking any Ghanaian soldiers there.
“We are not taking any of our soldiers there. It is a completely useless exercise,” he said in the local dialect.
President Akufo-Addo has described the re-emergence of military coup d’etats in West Africa as unacceptable and added that it is also shunned by the international community.
He agreed to a collective decision by ECOWAS to deploy military troops to restore constitutional order if the presidential guard that ousted the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum does not reinstate him within one week.
President Akufo-Addo has joined other West-African leaders in Abuja, Nigeria to discuss the crucial political situation in Niger.
ECOWAS provided a deadline of Sunday, August 7, 2023, for the military leaders to relinquish power but the junta leaders failed to do so, prompting ECOWAS to hold discussions.
The bloc earlier threatened to return democratic governance through military intervention but that alternative is being reconsidered to due severe criticism.
Thibaut Courtois, the goalkeeper for Real Madrid, is facing an extended period on the bench following an ACL injury sustained during a training session.
It is reported that Courtois departed the training session visibly emotional after incurring the injury.
Subsequently, Los Blancos officially affirmed that the former Chelsea goalkeeper had suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
The La Liga giants released a statement on Wednesday afternoon which read: “After the tests carried out on our player Thibaut Courtois, he has been diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The player will undergo surgery in the coming days.”
This casts Real Madrid’s goalkeeping situation into disarray, especially as the commencement of the new La Liga season is only days away.
With their first match of the season against Athletic Bilbao scheduled for Saturday night, Real Madrid finds themselves in a predicament. Andriy Lunin, aged 24, stands as their sole senior goalkeeper. Last season, Lunin, who is part of the team with numerous Champions League victories, participated in 12 games.
Since his arrival from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018, Lunin has made just nine appearances in La Liga for the club. Additionally, he has gained experience through loan spells at Leganes, Real Valladolid, and Real Oviedo.
Reports surfacing on social media indicate that vehicles part of the ‘CODA drive’ initiative are currently in a devastating state due to rusting.
In October 2021, the Coastal Development Authority (CODA) launched its ‘CODA drive’ initiative with the hope of getting commercial motorcycle riders to give up their motorcycles (okada) for a Bajaj Qute vehicle on a hire-purchase basis.
The beneficiaries of the CODA drive initiative, including okada riders, would pay the cost of purchase of the Bajaj Qute vehicle (GHC25,000) in 24 months.
Beneficiaries would pay an initial 20% of the GHC25,000, which is GHC5,000, and the balance with an interest rate of 2% per annum would be spread over 24- month equal instalments.
Despite this initiative, the ‘okada‘ business continues to thrive in the country.
It is believed that this may have affected the smooth implementation of the initiative, hence the alleged destruction of the vehicles.
Government in a rush spent GHS85 million to buy these miniature cars to replace OKADA.
The Ghana Police Service has bid a farewell to one of its most esteemed horses P/H Corporal Queen Mother.
This resolute horse, renowned for its unwavering dedication and service, passed away on August 8, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of impressive ceremonial displays and contributions to state functions.
In recognition of its dedicated service, P/H Corporal Queen Mother has been posthumously elevated to the rank of a Sergeant.
P/H Corporal Queen Mother, symbolizing honor and loyalty, had been a steadfast member of the Police Mounted Squadron since 2019, embodying the Service’s ethos through its relentless efforts.
This majestic horse had played an integral role in various significant occasions, including Independence Day Parades, the commencement of Parliament during the State of the Nation’s Address, and the graduation of Cadet Officers.
The bond between the Service and P/H Corporal Queen Mother went beyond duty, with the horse endearingly becoming part of the Police family.
Its commanding presence and dignified demeanor made it a popular figure at public events, eliciting pride and admiration.
As the Ghana Police Service mourns the departure of this esteemed horse, it also celebrates the invaluable contributions it made to both the Service and the nation.
The legacy of this exceptional horse will continue to inspire Ghanaians, serving as a reminder of the unwavering dedication and commitment that define the nation’s law enforcement agency.
P/H Corporal Queen Mother, now known as P/H Sergeant Queen Mother, left behind three offspring, with the youngest being just two weeks old.
Deputy Minister for Finance, Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, has defended the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr Ernest Addison and his two deputies in response to the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s call for their resignations.
On August 8, the Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, accused Dr Ernest Addison of reckless mismanagement of the Central Bank as it incurred a loss of GH¢60.8 billion from its audited financial statement for the 2022 fiscal year.
The Minority therefore issued a 21-day ultimatum for the resignation of the governor of the Bank of Ghana.
But Dr. Kumah has urged the public to disregard what he labeled as “funny propaganda” against both the central bank’s leadership and the entire government.
In a Facebook update on Wednesday, August 9, the Member of Parliament for Ejisu emphasized that the BoG is in a stable condition and is far from facing any potential collapse.
He explained that the primary revenue source for the BoG comes from government transactions. As a result, any reduction in such transactions would naturally impact the central bank’s income.
“Ignore this funny NDC Propaganda about the collapse of the Bank of Ghana (BoG). BoG is Solid!”
“The NDC is funny! It’s not true that a recapitalization levy is to be introduced for BoG, the Central Bank hasn’t collapsed.”
“The main source of income to the Bank is from government transactions i.e. fees on all government transfers, the bank’s investments in marketable instruments and also earnings from non-marketable holdings of the Bank.”
“Given that government transactions have gone down, naturally, the income of the bank will go down. Also, because of the debt restructuring, earnings on their holdings on markable and non-marketable bonds will go down,” he posited.
He added that “Beyond this, the Bank is solid and is capable of performing its core function. Article 183 clause 2 (c) of the 1992 constitution enjoins the Bank of Ghana to promote and encourage economic development in the country, hence there is nothing untoward in the actions of the Central Bank to support the state in its economic recovery efforts.”
The Deputy Minister also implied that the losses incurred by the central bank are not uncommon, as many central banks globally experience similar situations while pursuing economic stabilization goals.
Bank of Ghana’s response
The substantial loss of GH₵60 billion included a significant portion of GH₵53.1 billion attributed to the government’s Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), as per a Bank of Ghana’s report.
The Bank’s statement clarified that its intervention was necessary to avert a significant economic and societal crisis due to the failure of the domestic auction process.
Furthermore, the Bank of Ghana outlined that a deeper decline in Ghana’s sovereign debt rating resulted in the restriction of the country’s access to international capital market borrowing. This, in turn, triggered a liquidity crisis, which subsequently escalated into a balance of payments crisis.
It added that “In 2 months, the Bank of Ghana lost $500 million in reserves and built significant overdraft with the government as a result of the auction failures.
“It became clear that Ghana was on an unsustainable path, and the Government had to approach the IMF for support in July 2022.
“The IMF process included putting into place a credible programme of reform, which included restructuring the total government debt to sustainable levels.
“Until the Staff Level Agreement with the IMF was reached in December 2022, the Bank of Ghana had to continue to provide the necessary support to keep the economy running.”
Deputy Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Jennifer Queen, has advised the Communications Director for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, to file a class action lawsuit against the Bank of Ghana over the loss of GH¢60.8 billion.
The Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Bank of Ghana reveals that the institution incurred a loss of GH¢60.8 billion from its audited financial statement for the 2022 fiscal year.
This loss, according to the Bank of Ghana, is largely due to the government’s debt restructuring activities.
In response, Sammy Gyamfi noted that such a colossal loss can be attributed to the Central Bank’s Directors’ “criminality and recklessness.”
NDC National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi
Speaking in an interview with Citi FM on Tuesday, August 8, he said the NDC will build forces together to bring sufficient pressure on “these wreckers.”
“And we will be occupying the BoG together with the media to bring to bear sufficient pressure on these wreckers. Until they resign, they will have no peace of mind,” he added.
Taking an opposing stance, Jennifer Queen noted that such a radical approach is not the way to go and urged for a diplomatic measure.
In an interview on Okay FM’s Ade Kyea Bia on August 9, 2023, she said: “ if Sammy Gyamfi feels like things are not going on well and he doesn’t understand, he is a lawyer who practices democracy so there is nothing that stops him from taking the issue to court and sue the Bank of Ghana.”
“Ignore this funny NDC Propaganda about the collapse of the Bank of Ghana (BoG). BoG is Solid!”
“The NDC is funny! It’s not true that a recapitalization levy is to be introduced for BoG, the Central Bank hasn’t collapsed.”
“The main source of income to the Bank is from government transactions i.e. fees on all government transfers, the bank’s investments in marketable instruments and also earnings from non-marketable holdings of the Bank.”
“Given that government transactions have gone down, naturally, the income of the bank will go down. Also, because of the debt restructuring, earnings on their holdings on markable and non-marketable bonds will go down,” he posited.
He added that “Beyond this, the Bank is solid and is capable of performing its core function. Article 183 clause 2 (c) of the 1992 constitution enjoins the Bank of Ghana to promote and encourage economic development in the country, hence there is nothing untoward in the actions of the Central Bank to support the state in its economic recovery efforts.”
Meanwhile, Sammy Gyamfi, has accused the Bank of Ghana of printing an amount of GHC80 billion for the government of Ghana.
In an interview on Onua TV, he noted that despite the “unlawful” funding to the government, there is currently nothing to show.
“More than 50 percent of the total revenue. They are living like there is no law. The impunity. After supplying the government over GHS80 billion, let’s ask ourselves what government used the money for,” he said,
He noted that the amount of money printed by the Central Bank for the Akufo-Addo-led government comes nowhere close to the loans that were taken by the erstwhile Mahama government.
“He (John Mahama) borrowed GHS54 billion. This does not even include the accumulated debt of this government,” he added.
A Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, has refuted assertions made by the Minority Leader regarding the government’s purported intention to implement a Bank of Ghana (BoG) recapitalization levy for citizens to bear.
During a press conference held on Tuesday, August 8, Dr. Ato Forson stated that the government’s aim is to introduce the levy as a preventive measure to avert the potential collapse of the central bank due to its recent financial setbacks.
“The IMF has made offers to assist the Government to develop a plan for the recapitalization of the Central Bank.
That is why paragraph 18 of Ghana’s Memorandum of Economic and Financial Policy (MEFP) sent to IMF stated this fact.”
“Let me assure you that very soon, Ghanaians will be made to pay for Bank of Ghana recapitalization levy, a tax to recapitalise the Bank of Ghana, because the central bank has collapsed virtually,” the Minority Leader claimed.
In a Facebook update posted on Wednesday, August 8, the Deputy Minister of Finance unequivocally rejected the assertion. The Member of Parliament for Ejisu clarified that the government has no intention of implementing the suggested levy, emphasizing the robustness of the Bank of Ghana.
He emphasized that the Bank of Ghana remains sturdy and urged Ghanaians to dismiss the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s propagandist claims.
“Ignore this funny NDC Propaganda about the collapse of the Bank of Ghana (BoG). BoG is Solid!”
“The NDC is funny! It’s not true that a recapitalisation levy is to be introduced for BoG, the Central Bank hasn’t collapsed.”
“The main source of income to the Bank is from government transactions, i.e. fees and charges on all government transfers, the bank’s investments in marketable instruments, and also earnings from non-marketable holdings of the Bank,” he said.
Deputy Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Jennifer Queen, has suggested that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is leaning towards the idea of toppling a democratic governance system.
In an interview on Okay FM’s Ade Kyea Bia on August 9, 2023, she accused the NDC of instigating the youth against the government.
“It seems like our siblings in the opposition wish that there should be a coup or something dangerous so that the youth will take over, when you listen to their line conversations, it is directed towards fear and panic stuff,” she said.
She added: “But let me say this… countries that are experiencing coups and uncertainty… Ghana has experienced similar before, and it is our hope and prayer not to have the same experience again.”
Jennifer Queen, who has been a victim of a military takeover, entreated the opposition party to consider diplomatic alternatives to have their concerns addressed.
“So, what I am saying is that a coup is not something we should call for, because we have only one Ghana… so if Sammy Gyamfi feels like things are not going on well and he doesn’t understand, he is a lawyer who practices democracy so there is nothing that stops him from taking the issue to court and sue the Bank of Ghana,” she added.
According to Jennifer, she had to sacrifice her hand during the 1981 coup in order to save the life of her sister.
“I quite remember in 1990, my twin siblings had been born, I was carrying the junior one (Kakra) at my back, my mother was a nurse and had a tent at the Kumasi market, so, Rawlings was firing tear gas, and everyone was running helter-skelter to go and find safety elsewhere.”
“My right hand whenever I meet you, I will show it to you, I used my hand to save my sibling Kakra, if not she would have been dead by now.
“I had to sacrifice my hand for the trotro mate to smash it with the car door because the baby’s head was hanging outside,” she recounted.
Ghana has secured a position among the top 10 countries globally grappling with the most significant food inflation.
As outlined in a Food Security Report published by the World Bank, Ghana’s Nominal Food Inflation (year-on-year) of 54% has placed the nation at the 8th rank in this distressing scenario.
Conversely, its Real Food Inflation (year-on-year) of 12% has positioned it at the 9th spot.
Leading the Nominal Food Inflation category is Venezuela, with a staggering year-on-year inflation rate of 414%. Following suit are Lebanon (280%), Zimbabwe (256%), Argentina (117%), Suriname (71%), Egypt (66%), and Sierra Leone (58%), in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th places, respectively.
Regarding Real Food Inflation, the top positions are seized by Zimbabwe (80%), Egypt (30%), Lebanon (26%), Turkey (16%), Rwanda (15%), Burundi (14%), Lao (14%), and Sierra Leone (13%), holding the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th positions respectively for the highest food inflation rates.
The recent report covers data from February 2023 to May 2023, reflecting the prevailing situation regarding food price inflation. The findings reveal a notable surge in inflation rates across various low- and middle-income nations.
In particular, a substantial 63.2% of low-income countries, 79.5% of lower-middle-income countries, and 67.0% of upper-middle-income countries are grappling with inflation rates exceeding 5%, with many facing double-digit inflation figures.
Remarkably, even among high-income nations, a significant 78.9% are contending with elevated levels of food price inflation. This global trend is particularly pronounced in diverse regions including Africa, North America, Latin America, South Asia, Europe, and Central Asia.
Furthermore, in terms of real value adjustments, food price inflation has outpaced the broader inflation rate (measured by the year-on-year alteration in the Consumer Price Index) in a substantial 80.1% of the 166 countries covered in the report, where both food CPI and overall CPI indexes are available.
The report also disclosed an uptick in maize and wheat prices, concluding at 12% and 14% higher, respectively, following their decline in the initial half of July 2023. This shift played a pivotal role in driving up the cereal price index, while rice prices, in contrast, have maintained their stability.
When considering a year-on-year comparison, maize and wheat prices have witnessed a decrease of 15% and 17% respectively, whereas rice prices have exhibited a 16% increase. Moreover, in comparison to January 2021, maize, wheat, and rice prices have escalated by 8%, 11%, and 3% respectively.
The 2023 State of Food Insecurity and Nutrition in the World report spotlights the global landscape of hunger and food insecurity, while also addressing the challenges and prospects associated with urbanization within agrifood systems.
The report has voiced concern over Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI) within the global markets.
The Central Bank of Ghana has provided justification as to why the institution is investing $250 million in a new headquarters amidst an economic crisis.
In a press statement, the Bank of Ghana explained that the need to construct a new headquarters stems from earthquake threats.
According to the Central Bank, its current structure, built in the 1960s, lacks structural integrity, and is therefore incapable of withstanding an earthquake.
“A structural integrity assessment conducted by the BoG revealed that the current BoG Head Office building, built by the Nkrumah Government in the early 1960s, is no longer fit for purpose and could not stand any major earth tremors.”
“The outcome of the structural integrity work was that the main building does not satisfy the full complement of excess strength required for a building to be considered safe for usage. This means that in the case of a worst-case gravity and wind loading scenario, for example, unusually strong wind, the building may be significantly affected.”
This comes after the Minority questioned the investment being made by the Bank of Ghana under the supervision of Governor Dr Ernest Addison.
Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson at a National Democratic Congress (NDC) press conference on Tuesday, August 8, accused the Bank of Ghana of building a new head office at an alleged amount of $250 million.
“Perhaps the more troubling fact is that, having brought the Bank of Ghana to this terrible financial state, the Governor and his deputies, have found it prudent and expedient to invest $250 million (GHC2.8 billion) on another Head Office building somewhere at Ridge. In our circumstances, this is the height of insensitivity in the management of the finances of a troubled country,” he said.
The $250 million project which is a 21-storey facility, is specifically in Ridge in the Greater Accra Region, adjacent the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge.
Currently, under construction, the project, which is reportedly 50% complete, has been awarded to De Simone Limited.
