An economist, Dr. Ishmael Yamson, has attributed part of Ghana’s current economic situation to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He criticized these Bretton-Wood institutions for not intervening when the government engaged in excessive borrowing without repercussions.
According to him, although the annual reports from these institutions warned of potential debt distress, mere warnings were insufficient. Instead, he argued that they should have taken a more assertive stance by threatening to impose sanctions if the government did not heed their warnings.
Dr. Yamson stated that the failure of the World Bank and IMF to effectively exercise their oversight role on the country’s economy has contributed to the nation’s current debt distress situation.
“I have always said that sometimes the Fund and the Bank have to share in the blame because they themselves don’t say it as it should be said,” Dr. Yamson said on PM Express Business Edition.
“They were aware, long time, that the government was doing things that would push this country into a crisis. And I can tell you that the crisis that we have today I haven’t seen it all my life in this country. Never. If you go back and look at the statistics, here’s nothing like this before.
“Yet, every year they issue the report and they say to government but they’re not firm enough to say ‘look, we can see the trend taking you this way and we will apply sanctions if there are any such things.’
“But I believe that the Fund and the Bank have a greater responsibility also to themselves because I know they don’t want Ghana to fail. And if they don’t want Ghana to fail then they must behave in a way that pushes Ghanaian government. I mean why?
“When we were borrowing literally every year were they not aware? All that they’ll put in their report is that the excessive borrowing will lead you to debt distress, simple sentence. And beyond that what else did they do? Did they say to government stop? Never,” he said.
Liverpool’s midfielder, Jordan Henderson, has made the decision to leave the club and join Al-Ettifaq, a team in the Saudi Pro League.
The move comes after Henderson accepted a highly lucrative offer from the Saudi side.
Notably, he will have the opportunity to work under the guidance of Steven Gerrard, a legendary figure at Liverpool, who was recently appointed as the manager of Al-Ettifaq.
AFter sealing the move, he posted on Instagram: “Delighted to announce I’ve signed for @ettifaq. New challenge ahead, can’t wait to get going.”
A Liverpool statement said: “Liverpool Football Club can confirm Jordan Henderson has completed a transfer to Al-Ettifaq.
“The move to the Saudi Pro League side sees the midfielder bring an end to his 12-year Reds career, during which he lifted eight trophies, all but one of which as club captain.
“Everybody at Liverpool wishes to place on record their thanks and gratitude for everything Jordan Henderson did for the club during his 12 years as a Red.”
In the recent summer transfer window, he joins a growing list of high-profile names making moves to the Middle East. Among them are former team-mate Roberto Firmino, former Chelsea stars Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and N’Golo Kante, as well as Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema.
Having dedicated 12 seasons to Liverpool, the 33-year-old midfielder served as the captain, leading the team to victories in the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, Super Cup, and Club World Cup.
Despite having two more years left on his contract, Jordan Henderson, who began his football journey at Sunderland’s academy, has agreed to a lucrative salary offer to join his former teammate Steven Gerrard’s side.
Announcing his departure from the Reds on Instagram, Henderson said: “It’s hard to put these last 12 years into words and it’s even harder to say goodbye. I will always be a Red. Until the day I die.
“Thank you for everything. You’ll never walk alone.”
Skipper, where do I start? The one constant factor in my career since my debut. My Liverpool and England journey we have been together since day 1. To have shared every dressing room with you is something ill always cherish. A constant inspiration to me and the perfect role model… pic.twitter.com/pgBk6Fn28Z
Former UT Bank Boss, Kofi Amoabeng delivered an inspiring speech during the 9th Edition of the What I Wish I Knew (WIWIK) Summit held at the University of Ghana.
He urged participants not to be afraid of failure but rather view it as an opportunity to bounce back even stronger.
In his address, Mr. Amoabeng highlighted some key factors that every entrepreneur must consider when starting and maintaining a business.
He emphasized the significance of managing family and friend relations, tradition, the church, and interactions with politicians. According to him, these factors play a critical role in the success of any business, and mishandling them can lead to various challenges.
Linking these factors to the UT Bank story, Mr. Amoabeng mentioned that “The problem I had with UT was that I was so hard I wasn’t doing either of these things”.
Advising upcoming entrepreneurs, he mentioned that “It is okay to be like me when you are small but when you come above the raider you must find a way around working with these people.”
The WIWIK Conference, held annually, has evolved into one of the most prominent personal development events on university campuses. Its primary objective is to enlighten, guide, and motivate final year undergraduate students.
This year’s conference featured Daniel Mckorley, the CEO of McDan, who shared his remarkable entrepreneurial journey with the participants. Distinguished panelists for this edition included Dr. Dennis Oteng, CEO of Ravens Consulting Gh, Prof. Carol Javis, a Professor in Knowledge Exchange and Innovation at Bristol Business School in the UK, Sammy Gyamfi, a prominent Politician, Audrey Naa Dei Kotey, Esq, FCCA, Managing Partner at Audrey Grey, and Chairperson of ACCA Ghana Network Panel, and Doris Ahiati, CEO of Crescendo Consult.
The event provided an excellent platform for students to learn from accomplished individuals, gain valuable insights, and be inspired to pursue their own paths to success.
This year’s conference was on the theme “Thriving in uncertainty; a conversation on intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship”.
Speaking to the media on the side, the convener of the WIWIK conference Dr. Bernard Tawiah mentioned that “These past years have been marked by shifting narratives and unexpected outcomes. During times of ongoing uncertainty, there is a constant need for everyone to deal effectively with disruption, adapt quickly to change and keep focused in order to succeed and thrive. This year’s conference has equipped our participants with a toolkit of simple, practical, evidence-based techniques that can apply in their intrapreneurship or entrepreneurship journey in these challenging times”.
McDan at WIWIK Conference 2023
During the WIWIK Conference, the keynote address was delivered by Hannah Ashiokai Akrong, the Human Resources Director of Vodafone Ghana. She emphasized the significance of nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit within organizations, coining it as “intrapreneurship.”
Akrong also highlighted the importance of creating an environment that fosters innovation and does not penalize failure. Dr. Dennis Oteng, CEO of Ravens Consult Gh, encouraged participants to prioritize the growth of their family businesses rather than solely seeking employment opportunities, especially given the challenges of the current business climate.
The WIWIK Conference was organized by the WIWIK Foundation, a non-profit organization, in partnership with the University of Ghana Business School, the Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG), and Crescendo Consult.
The 2023 edition of the conference was sponsored by Ravens Consulting Ghana, ACCA, Akosombo Textiles, MPA, Benchmark Professional Institute, and powered by Order Consult.
Government has paid GH¢55 million in arrears owed to WAEC. This payment was confirmed in an interview with Citi FM on July 27, 2023, according to the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC), Winifred Ampiaw.
The received funds, which amount to GH¢10.5 million for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and GH¢40 million for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), will be used to facilitate the organization of both exams this year.
The total budget allocated for the BECE and WASSCE for this year is approximately GH¢18 million and GH¢63.5 million, respectively, leaving around GH¢7.5 million in remaining funds after the received payment.
Ms. Ampiaw assured the public that the amount received from the government is sufficient to successfully carry out both exams. WAEC has already put necessary resources in place for the smooth execution of these examinations as planned.
“I can say that we have received some amount of money that will enable us to conduct the exams, for both WASSCE and BECE.
“However, there’s a payment plan to pay the rest. So far we have received GH¢10.5 million to be able to conduct BECE, and for WASSCE, we have received GH¢40 million.
“This amount will enable us to take care of the pre-exams activities and the conduct of the exams itself. We’ve received GH¢55 million in total, I know for a fact that we have received the money”.
“The payment is for this year’s exams, we are supposed to spend a rough estimate of GH¢18 million for BECE.
“For WASSCE, the total cost for just the pre and the conduct of the main will take us to GH¢63.5 million. We are left with about GH¢7.5 million.
“However, I want to assure the public that yes, we are in the position to conduct both exams for this year,” she stressed.
The Minority in Parliament has issued a warning regarding the 2023 WASSCE and BECE examinations, expressing concerns that these exams could face setbacks if the government does not settle its arrears owed to the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC).
During a media briefing in Parliament, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, the Minority Spokesperson on Education, stated that WAEC requires approximately GH₵50 million to clear its outstanding debts. He pointed out that in the previous year, the government managed to pay only GH₵50 million out of the GH₵83 million owed to WAEC, which was meant to address the arrears for the 2020/2021 period.
“Now the examinations are about to start again or they have even started with the orals and practicals and the WAEC is not having money to pay for last year’s services. If care is not taken, the persons or the teachers who gave us the service may not be ready to provide services again as supervisors and invigilators.”
But responding to the Minority’s claims, Deputy Education Minister, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, affirmed that the government is actively working to fulfill the outstanding financial requirements to support WAEC in conducting the exams without any disruptions.
On Thursday, Parliament successfully passed a significant amendment to the law, making the act of declaring, accusing, naming, or labeling someone as a witch a criminal offense.
This move aims to address the issue of witch accusations and its associated harmful consequences.
Furthermore, the approved amendment also prohibits individuals from practicing as witch doctors or witchfinders. This step is crucial in curbing the harmful practices and beliefs related to witchcraft in the country.
Speaking in Parliament, Speaker Alban Bagbin explained that the House amended the Criminal Offences Act 1960, Act 29, “to prohibit the practice by any person as a witch doctor or a witchfinder, to proscribe the declaration, accusation, naming or labelling of another person as a witch and for related matters.”
In 2020, a tragic incident occurred in the Savanah region where 90-year-old Madam Akua Denteh was brutally lynched after being falsely accused of witchcraft.
The horrifying incident, during which she was slapped, kicked, and caned, was captured in a viral video.
The incident took place in Kafaba near Salaga, situated in the East Gonja Municipality of the Savannah Region.
Following the incident, six individuals, including the Kafaba Chief, Zackaria Yahaya, were arrested for their involvement in this heinous killing. The incident sparked widespread outrage, with many Ghanaians, including President Akufo-Addo, condemning the act.
In 2021, three Members of Parliament, representing the Madina, Pusiga, and Wa East constituencies, introduced a Private Members’ Bill aimed at amending the Criminal and Other Offences Act 1960 (Act 29).
Dr. Godfred Seidu Jassaw, the MP for Wa East and one of the sponsors of the bill, expressed his expectation that the president would promptly sign the bill into law.
On the other hand, Francis Xavier Sosu, the MP for Madina and a co-sponsor of the bill, revealed that if the bill is passed, it would lead to the disbandment of witches camps nationwide. He further mentioned that the Gender and Social Protection Ministry would take necessary measures to reintegrate the inmates of these camps back into society.
NBA superstar LeBron James has assured everyone that his family is doing well after his son experienced a cardiac arrest.
On Tuesday, James was spotted arriving at Cedar Sinai Hospital, donning a face mask and carrying what appeared to be an iPad.
According to CNN’s report on Wednesday, Bronny, LeBron’s son, had undergone a cardiac screening a few months ago as part of a program for potential NBA players, and the results had shown to be normal.
A spokesperson for the James family confirmed on Tuesday that Bronny had suffered a cardiac arrest during a practice session the previous day.
Thankfully, it seems that his condition is stable, and the family is coping with the situation.
“Medical staff was able to treat Bronny and take him to the hospital,” a James family spokesperson said at the time. “He is now in stable condition and no longer in ICU.”
In his first statement after the incident, James said all members of the family are healthy.
He also used the opportunity to thank all who prayed for his family during this trying period.
“I want to thank the countless people sending my family love and prayers. We feel you and I’m so grateful. Everyone doing great. We have our family together, safe and healthy, and we feel your love.”
He noted that the family “will have more to say when we’re ready.”
But for now, “I wanted to tell everyone how much your support has meant to all of us!”
Ghana will reach a debt deal with its external creditors in the second half of next year, according to Fitch Solutions.
“Indeed, we believe that Ghana will reach a debt deal with its external creditors in H224 [half-year 2024],” Fitch indicated, adding that this would “provide tailwinds to the exchange rate and further limit imported price pressures”.
The real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth is expected to remain well below trend on the back of fiscal consolidation efforts under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.
The Central Bank will however likely seek to lower interest rates to stimulate economic activity.
Fitch Solutions, a UK-based firm, predicts that the Bank of Ghana will reduce its policy rate by 600 basis points to 22% by the end of next year. The reason behind this anticipated rate cut is the expected downward trend in inflation starting from the fourth quarter of this year.
The firm forecasts that in 2024, the Bank of Ghana will continue its approach of easing monetary policy, leading to a 600 basis points reduction in the benchmark interest rate, bringing it to 22.00% by the end of the year. According to Fitch Solutions, inflation is projected to average at 17.1% in 2024, primarily due to high base effects, particularly in the first half of the year, and stable exchange rates.
These factors are expected to result in interest rates being in a positive territory, providing favorable conditions for economic growth and investment.
Risks to outlook
On the risks to the outlook, Fitch Solutions, said risks to its forecast are skewed towards higher interest rates.
“If external debt restructuring negotiations stagnate, investor sentiment towards Ghanaian assets will weaken, which would likely trigger another round of currency depreciation”, it explained
In this scenario, it added that, inflation would remain higher for longer, prompting the central bank to adopt a more hawkish stance than our current baseline scenario assumes.
Former Ambassador of Ghana to India, Sam Pee Yalley, says his heart goes out to the Ghanaian youth who will have no other option than to bear the brunt of the unlawful actions taken by the current leaders in government.
According to Mr Pee Yalley, several criminal offenses have been perpetrated under the Akufo-Addo led government yet none of the culprits have been brought to justice.
Contributing to discussions on Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV, Wednesday, July 26, Mr Pee Yalley expressed his displeasure over the secrecy characterised by persons in the current government.
He highlighted several sensitive issues such as the scandalous Ameri Plant deal involving former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko, and the Sky train scandal involving Joe Ghartey – two individuals contesting the New Patriotic Party flagbearership race.
He noted that it is unacceptable for the former government officials involved to keep such matters private and only provide updates when they believe it is most convenient to do so.
“Why do they think they must contest elections before they spill this?” he quizzed.
Ameri deal
Following the change of government in 2017, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, initiated a renegotiation of the Ameri deal signed in 2015. The government sought to amend the terms of the agreement to reduce costs and make it more favorable to Ghana.
The renegotiation process led to the signing of a novation agreement with a new company called Mytilineos International Trading Company in 2018. Under this agreement, Mytilineos took over the management and operation of the Ameri Power Plant from Ameri Group.
Boakye Agyarko’s revealation
Mr Boakye Agyarko, during an interview on Kumasi-based Asanteman FM, claimed that Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, a prominent figure in the NPP, renegotiated the Ameri deal without obtaining consent from the government committee assigned to work on the deal.
Upon confronting Gabby about the matter, Agyarko asserted that he was told to keep quiet because President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was already informed about the actions taken by Gabby.
Agyarko recounted that he received a call from Gabby while he was on a flight to the United States, during which Gabby expressed frustration at not being able to reach him.
Sam Pee’s response
According to Sam Pee Yalley, he finds it unfortunate that it took a presidential ambition to get Mr Agyako to talk about the very matter that got him fired in 2018.
“Any Patriotic Ghanaian who concedes this fact has no favour with me at all. Because the damage that may have been caused from that time till today cannot be quantified,” he explained.
He called for a Parliamentary probe into the Ameri deal to ensure the fine details of what transpired are made public.
“Boakye Agyarko should not be left alone. There should be a committee to look into the Ameri deal so Ghanaians will see what exactly happened,” he entreated.
Sky train project
Former Minister of Railways Development and a presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Joe Ghartey, affirmed that he did not make any payments to AI Sky or give authorization for the transfer of $2 million to finance the Accra Sky Train Project.
Clarifying the issues in an interview on Citi FM, Joe Ghartey stated that: “It is the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund that paid the money and the Fund is mandated to make such payments and so if the Minority wants anyone to refund the money, they should tell the Auditor General to ask the Fund to refund the money.”
Sam Pee’s response
The former Ambassador indicated that it is opportunistic on the part of Mr Ghartey to reveal the entity that made such payment when his presidential ambition is on the line.
“He says we have paid two million dollars to a company that didn’t even exist. In law, if you are not authorized to do what you are doing, what is your status?
Today, Joe Ghartey tells us that he was not the one who paid the money. Who paid the money? Why did Joe Ghartey keep quiet all this while until someone poked him?” he quizzed.
According to Mr Sam Pee, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta and President Akufo-Addo must be aware of this information as such a national project cannot proceed without their active involvement.
“Without authorisation from that Minister (Finance) and President nobody can. There imare certain expenditure that concern the development of this country, we were not doing it for railways alone. So the President must know of this. The Minister of Finance who signed the cheques for payment must know about this,” he stated.
Sam Pee ‘wails‘
For Mr Sam Pee, he is pained by the fact that some Ghanaians can “be wicked to this country.”
According to him, natural resources and funds that the youth of this country could rely on have been damaged or mortgaged by the government.
“We have almost destroyed all our state institutions and the persons in the state institutions cannot be trusted.
“Look at our water bodies. Look at our education system. Today, students have to do four terms and parents are paying. Today, the private schools have been collapsed and all these are happening and we in the political class feel we are untouchable?
“We should be sensitive to the plight of Ghanaians who vote for us. A lot of crime has been committed. Too many crimes have been committed in the fourth republic under Nana Akufo-Addo.”
Mr Sam Pee therefore said “I weep for this country and its youth because not only are we consuming their monies, keeping millions of dollars in our houses.”
“What will the youth depend on when they grow up,” he quizzed.
Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta has revealed that the government is putting measures in place to check the “structure and nature of the taxes” in the country.
This, he said, is to address the challenges faced by the government to rake in more revenue to save the grappling economy, partly due to tax evasion,
He made the disclosure during a meeting with the business community on July 24, 2023, in Accra to solicit their inputs to revise this year’s budget.
Mr. Ofori Atta raised concerns about tax evasion, charging them to be diligent in their tax payments as the country strives to revive its grappling economy.
Tax evasion is the act of intentionally and illegally avoiding paying taxes or underreporting income to reduce tax liability.
He said the government is putting measures in place to check the “structure and nature of the taxes”.
“What do we do when all of these religious people sit in the front seat of the church and still no one wants to pay taxes? To a certain degree, yes,the structure and nature of the taxes must be relooked at,” he fumed.
The minister acknowledged that revisiting the structure and nature of taxes was essential to ensuring greater public compliance.
During the meeting, the Finance Minister acknowledged the existence of inefficiencies and concerns in the way the country’s budgetary deficit has been managed.
In 2022, total revenue and grants amounted to GH¢65,399 million (11.0 percent of GDP), compared with the target of GH¢67,307 (11.4 percent of GDP) and the GH¢49,108 million (10.7 percent of GDP) recorded in the corresponding period in 2021, according to the Finance Ministry.
Compared to the target for the period, the outturn for total revenue and grants represented a short fall by GH¢1,909 million or 2.8 percent and a year on-year growth of 33.2 percent. The shortfall in revenue stemmed from the less robust performance recorded in all the revenue types.
In 2023, the government intends to collect total revenue and grants of GH¢143,956 million (18.0% of GDP) and is supported by permanent revenue measures – largely tax revenue measures – amounting to 1.35 percent of GDP.
Veteran broadcaster, Kwasi Kyei Darkwah, popularly known as KKD, is of the view Ken Ofori-Atta accepted the appointment of Finance Minister by President Akufo-Addo over the ill-performance of his financial institution, Data Bank.
He noted that should Data Bank have been well off, Ghana would never have recorded Mr Ofori-Atta as its Finance Minister under the administration of President Akufo-Addo.
Speaking in an interview on Power FM on Wednesday, July 26, he said: “When Ofori-Atta was operating Data Bank, should Data Bank have been faring well and excelling, he would not have needed a government position.”
According to KKD, ever since Mr Ofori-Atta became Finance Minister, Ghana’s debt stock has worsened. He alleges that the Finance Minister personally benefits from the loans taken on behalf of the country, hence his laid-back posture despite the wails of affected Ghanaians.
“But after he assumed a governmental position, now he is leading us on a loan taking spree and this is now killing us.
He was not worried since whenever he took a loan, so let’s say 100 million, his company will earn 9.8 million. So why won’t he continue taking loans,” he alleged.
Due to the current economic crisis facing Ghana, citizens called on the President to fire the Finance Minister. But the president failed to do so, arguing that Mr Ofori-Atta is competent for the job.
In 2018, the Minority in Parliament demanded the withdrawal of the appointment of Databank as advisors to the Finance Ministry and the Bank of Ghana in the issuance of public debt transactions.
The opposition MPs argued that the Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is compromising himself by appointing Databank to replace Strategic African Securities in the issuance of government securities.
Ghana’s public debt stats
Data from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) reveals a significant rise in the country’s public debt stock from GH¢392.2 billion to GH¢569.3 billion within 13 months.
As of March 2022, Ghana’s total public debt stood at GH¢392.2billion, representing 6.43 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but as of April 2023, the figure rose to GH¢569.3 billion, representing 7.11 of the country’s GDP.
According to the Central Bank’s July 2023 Summary of Economic and Financial Data, Ghana’s debt in the first quarter of 2023 rose from GH¢547.8 billion ($50.7 billion) in January and further increased to GH¢564.1 billion ($51.2 billion) and GH¢569.5 billion ($51.7 billion) in February and March respectively.
Per the report, the country’s external debt exceeds its domestic debt. As of April 2023, the external debt stock recorded was GH¢321.4 as against GH¢247.9 domestic debt.
The increase in debt was mainly attributed to the depreciation of the cedi during the period and, to some extent, an increase in domestic debt by ¢15.9 billion in the first four months of the year.
The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, is taking legal action against News Group Newspapers (NGN), the publisher of The Sun, over allegations of using illegal methods to gather information about him.
A judge has ruled that parts of Prince Harry’s claim can proceed, and the case may go to trial in the High Court next year. However, the judge dismissed his phone-hacking claims.
Prince Harry has accused journalists and private investigators working for The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World of employing unlawful methods to obtain information about him.
The ongoing legal battle revolves around the timing of when Prince Harry knew enough about the alleged methods used against him to bring the claim within the legal time limit.
NGN’s lawyers argue that Prince Harry waited too long to file the claim and should therefore have it dismissed.
However, Prince Harry previously revealed a “secret agreement” between Buckingham Palace and NGN that allegedly prevented him from taking legal action earlier.
He claimed that this agreement stipulated any privacy actions against the company should be delayed and then settled out of court, which is why he did not file the claim earlier.
Lawyers for NGN have previously disputed the existence of any secret agreement, describing it as “Alice in Wonderland stuff”.
Mr Justice Fancourt said Harry’s amended case submitted earlier this year – which was reliant on the existence of the “secret agreement” – did not “reach the necessary threshold of plausibility and cogency”.
He said emails between the Palace and NGN suggested there was “at some time an understanding” that the Royal Family’s claims “would be addressed informally” at a late date, but the “vague and limited” evidence provided by Harry’s lawyers did not amount to proof of Harry’s specific claims.
From 2012, the judge ruled, Harry was “on notice” that he may have been hacked after finding out about the practice at the News of the World.
The judge said Harry “could easily” have had his lawyers investigate further, at which point a “much fuller picture would have emerged”. The judge said the phone-hacking claim was therefore too late.
A spokesperson for NGN called the ruling a “significant victory” for the company.
They said: “The judge, Mr Justice Fancourt, found his claims in relation to the alleged ‘secret agreement’ were not plausible or credible.
Image caption,Hugh Grant is also taking legal action against NGN
“It is quite clear there was never any such agreement and it is only the Duke who has ever asserted there was.”
But the judge ruled that there should be a trial around other alleged methods used to get information about Harry, identified in the ruling as “blagging of confidential information from third parties, and instructing private investigators to do these or other unlawful acts”.
The judge said Harry had a “realistically arguable” case that he did not know enough about any use of the methods back in September 2013, the point at which NGN argue that his six-year window to bring a claim began.
Harry says he did not have enough information to bring a claim until 2018.
Thursday’s ruling does not take a position on whether Harry waited too long to bring a valid claim, only that “it is not sufficiently clear at this stage that it was issued too late” and should be decided at trial.
The trial could feature “many other” claimants, including actor Hugh Grant, and is due to start in January 2024, although could run into 2025.
Harry’s legal action against the Sun is one of three major claims he is making against the publishers of British tabloids.
He gave unprecedented testimony in court last month as part of his claim against the Mirror Group, and is also attempting to sue the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday over alleged breaches of privacy.
A Banking and Finance Expert has told an Accra Economic and Financial Court that a letter signed by former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson requesting for letters of credit to be established by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) in favour of Big Sea Trading LLC of Dubai, is not an application for an LC (Letter of Credit).
Alexander Kofi Mensah Mould who testified as an expert witness on Thursday, July 27, in a case of causing financial loss to the state brought against Minority leader Dr Forson, explained under cross examination by the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, that whereas the Ministry of Finance needed write to the BoG requesting for LCs to be established, that letter alone cannot trigger the establishment of an LC unless there is a proper application from the MDA ( Ministries, Departments and Agencies) on for whom the LC is to be established.
Former Chief Executive Officer of Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Alexander Kofi-Mensah Mould had told the Court during cross examination at the last sitting that letters signed on behalf of then Finance Minister by Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, requesting for the establishment of letters of credit in favour of Big Sea General Trading LLC of Dubai, was only a first step in the process of establishing of the LCs and cannot constitute payment.
Mr Mould added that there was no way the Bank of Ghana or any other bank would set up an LC on the basis of the letters written by Dr Forson.
He further explained that the only document required in the establishment of such an LC would be the application forms filled by the applicant for the LC which in this case was the Ministry of Health.
The witness who has extensive experience in Trade Finance and the establishment of LCs due to his many years of work at the Union Bank of Switzerland and Standard Chattered Bank in the United States of America, further stated that LCs in themselves were not payment and that they constituted a guarantee of payment upon the occurence of a very specific event.
Mr Mould stressed that his review of the documents presented in evidence by the prosecution showed that it was “fallacious” to allege that by merely signing a letter on behalf of the Minister of Finance requesting for the establishment of an LC in favour of Big Sea, Dr Forson had caused financial loss.
The witness also indicated,that based on his knowledge of Ghana’s financial management laws,only the Finance Minister could authorise a request for the establishment of the letters of credit in question.
He said it was not unusual for Deputy Ministers to sign letters on behalf of their Ministers.
Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has been accused of causing financial loss to the state for allegedly causing an LC to be established in favour of Big sea for the supply of 30 ambulances without authorisation.
Ghana Health Service (GHS) reports that approximately 50,000 babies die from birth asphyxia in Ghana annually.
However, the actual number might be higher as some cases occurring during home deliveries or outside, according to Programme Manager for Newborn and Child Health of the Ghana Health Service, Dr Edward Antwi.
“In Ghana, on the average, one million babies are born every year, and with the current neonatal mortality rate of 17 per 1,000 live births, it means for every one million births, about 170,000 are dying, and out of this, 30 per cent are dying from birth asphyxia,” Dr Antwi said.
He made the statement while speaking at a conference on July 25, 2023, on the theme: “Imagine Ghana without Birth”.
“Even though we do not know the true extent, even with the conservative information we have, about 30 per cent of all babies in Ghana die from birth asphyxia,” Dr Antwi added.
Birth asphyxia occurs when a baby’s brain and other organs do not receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients before, during, or immediately after birth.
This condition can occur before birth in the womb, leading to stillbirths, or during prolonged labor.
Dr. Antwi highlighted that one of the issues contributing to the problem was the level of commitment among health workers. He advised health workers to enhance their commitment levels, emphasizing the importance of providing efficient and prompt health services.
During the 11th annual national newborns conference held in Cape Coast, stakeholders in neonatal care and child health focused their discussions on the crucial goal of reducing neonatal deaths, particularly cases of asphyxia, throughout the country.
The conference, which commenced last Tuesday, gathered approximately 100 participants who deliberated on various strategies to achieve this objective.
Key topics of discussion included finding ways to decrease the occurrence of asphyxia, reinforcing sick newborn care at referral district hospitals, and providing vital support to newborns suffering from asphyxia to enhance their chances of survival, among other important issues.
In a speech read on his behalf by the Central Regional Director of Health, Dr. Akosua Sarpong, the Minister of Health, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, emphasized the critical nature of the first hour of a newborn’s life.
He acknowledged the significant progress in reducing neonatal deaths to 17 per 1,000 live births, although there remains work to be done to achieve the targeted rate of 12 per 1,000 live births.
The Minister identified several factors contributing to asphyxia deaths in newborns, including inadequate equipment and staff, delayed referrals, and insufficient education on breastfeeding.
Mr. Agyeman-Manu affirmed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to further reducing newborn deaths and urged health workers and managers to foster effective collaboration in order to lower the incidence of birth asphyxia.
He also expressed gratitude to the partners for their ongoing support to the Ministry, contributing to the improvement of health indicators.
Yet another assault by a police officer against a civilian has been discovered by The Independent Ghana.
The unfortunate incident, according to sources, took place on Wednesday, July 26, at Effiduasi-Dadease in Sekyere Kumawu Constituency of the Ashanti Region.
In a video sighted by the media house, the police officer wrapped a belt around the neck and dragged the civilian on the ground.
Residents at the scene urged the police officer to be humane in his actions, however, their calls fell on deaf ears.
It is unknown the offense committed by the civilian. Per reports, the officer failed to disclose the information when asked.
Engaging the media, a resident noted that the assaulted resident has a bad reputation in the community.
— The Independent Ghana (@independent_gh) July 27, 2023
Police assault in Ghana
In March 2019, a distressing incident occurred in Accra Central, where three journalists from the Ghanaian Times newspaper were subjected to assault by 10 police officers. The assault took place as the journalists were filming the police officers’ wrong practices.
The journalists had captured on camera a traffic offence and an accident involving a police officer using an unregistered motorcycle. The police officers became agitated and unhappy that the journalists were attempting to document the accident.
As a result, the police officers launched a physical attack on the journalists, causing severe injuries. Malik Sullemana, a court reporter, Raissa Sambou, a general reporter, and Salifu Abdul Rahman, an assistant editor, bore the brunt of the officers’ brute force. Two of them had to be taken to the hospital for medical treatment.
This incident sparked outrage among Ghanaians and sparked further discussions on the importance of press freedom and the need to protect journalists’ rights in the country.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo has voiced her apprehensions regarding the behavior of Assin North MP James Gyakye Quayson when submitting documents to the Supreme Court.
She noted that he frequently fails to appear in person and instead instructs one of his lawyers to file and swear to statements on his behalf.
The Chief Justice expressed her concern, emphasizing that such conduct is irregular and should not be promoted or encouraged.
“He doesn’t treat this court properly. He engages this court, and he refuses to appear. When you ask the court to exercise discretion, you must treat the court properly” she stated.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo made the comment while presiding over a five-member panel during a case filed by the Assin North legislator.
Mr. Quayson was seeking to halt his trial, arguing that the High Court made an error in refusing a request to compel prosecutors to provide certain documents they had failed to disclose.
Attorney General Godfred Yeboah had informed the High Court that his office had already supplied all documents to the legislator. He referred to correspondence between his office and Mr. Quayson’s legal team, which indicated that the documents in question had been examined by the latter.
However, Mr. Quayson’s lawyers disagreed with this assertion, stating that the AG cannot rely on those correspondences as they had not filed an appropriate response.
As a result of the disagreement, the High Court ruled against Mr. Quayson’s view, prompting his legal team to approach the Supreme Court.
During the Supreme Court proceedings, Mr. Quayson’s lawyer, Justin Teriwajah, urged the apex court to overturn the High Court’s decision. He argued that by relying on the correspondence, the High Court had used evidence that was not properly presented to it.
“Our submission is that, in the main trial, evidence is taken on oath, in a determination of a motion, it must be based on evidence given on oath. Our position is that if facts are deposed, the opposing side has the option to respond. That wasn’t the case,” he said.
The Attorney General held a different viewpoint, highlighting several issues with the processes filed by Mr. Teriwajah at the Supreme Court. Firstly, he pointed out that the processes were irregular as Mr. Teriwajah had sworn an oath and signed the documents without demonstrating that he had the authority of the MP to do so.
Furthermore, the Attorney General emphasized that Mr. Quayson’s legal team had been given ample opportunity to extensively argue the matter and had addressed the court on the correspondence between the parties.
According to the Attorney General, there was no evident error of law on the face of the record, as alleged by the MP’s legal team, to justify the Supreme Court overturning the decision of the lower court.
“Substantively, we submit that there is no error of law patent on the face of the record. An application invoking your jurisdiction must indicate matters which are patent.
“Where the court has to go beyond the depositions and fundamental attachments, clearly, that application does not properly invoke the supervision jurisdiction.
“It was an application for further disclosure. The application is improper and should be dismissed,” he stated.
The court ruled that the High Court committed no error of law.
“We have examined the processes and find no merit in the application. We find that the applicant was heard by the court and the court had jurisdiction to rule on the matter,” the Chief Justice ruled.
Some panel members had earlier commented on the absence of the Legislator and on his lawyers swearing documents on his behalf.
“Supposing we want to have him cross-examined, you will disqualify yourself from counsel. You depose to affidavit and you appear before us as counsel.
“That practice was because your client has money, he sends you to the court. One day, when your wig is taken off, you will see,“ Justice Issifu Amadu Tanko said.
The Chief Justice additionally added that such conduct does not help the profession.
“This practice demeans the profession,” she stated.
The case was heard by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo and Justices Issiufu Amadu Tanko, Emmanuel Kulendi, Samuel Asiedu and Ernest Gaewu.
It was a spirit-filled atmosphere at the 2023 National Development Conference when the gathering in unison offered supplication prayer for three major political figures in the country.
The conference organised by the Church of Pentecost at CoP Convention Centre in Gomoa-Fetteh of the Central Region paved the way for Ghanaians to intercede for Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former Presidents John Mahama and John Agyekum Kufuor.
The prayer session on Wednesday, July 26, was led by Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.
He committed the leaders of the country in the hands of God almighty, urging the supreme deity to “take control.”
“All arms of government we bring before you, workers, our young, the old, those who have no work, all parities, we bring before you. Our leaders, traditional leaders, we bring them before you. Lord take control. Direct the affairs of this nation and let your peace which passes all understanding be our portion.
“Using our leaders as point of contact, let your blessings, peace reign and abide. Grant them the courage, humility, grace that they need,” he added.
Apostle Eric Nyamekye called on God Almighty to forgive and remember not the sins committed by the country.
“Guide us Oh Lord, lead us, protect us, change us and transform us. Where we have gone wrong forgive us. Forgive us we pray,” he said.
“With your spirit leading, we will not go astray but that from here, we will bear testimony and have testimonies that yes indeed, God you are sovereign and with us,” he added.
Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, said the purpose of the Church was the “transformation of the National flag” and stated the readiness of the Church to promote a righteous Ghana.
The two-day event, in partnership with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), aims to discuss the need for a national moral vision with concerted efforts at national development.
It brought together major development partners and stakeholders, including former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, former President John Dramani Mahama, the Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Ministers of State and the Chief Justice, Madam Getrude Araba Torkonoo.
On the first day of a strike initiated by public service doctors in Nigeria, government hospitals experienced a complete shutdown of services, causing significant difficulties for patients seeking healthcare.
The president of the resident doctors’ union informed the BBC that his members had exhausted all possible avenues to resolve the crisis before resorting to the strike.
At the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano, the largest city in the north-west region, the situation was dire as patients were turned away and advised to take their sick relatives back home due to the unavailability of doctors to attend to them.
Khadijah Hassan had brought her husband, who was involved in a car accident, to the hospital at midnight on Wednesday, but the doctors refused to provide medical attention due to the strike.
The patient was left lying down in the hospital corridors. “What are we going to do? We will have to sit here in the hospital till the doctors resume work,” she said.
Khadijah’s situation mirrored that of Ishiaku Musa, who brought his elder brother from a neighboring state to the teaching hospital in Kano 12 days ago. Ishiaku’s brother was suffering from migraine headaches, but due to the ongoing strike, they were only given prescriptions and asked to leave without any significant improvement in his condition.
In the capital city, Abuja, the local chapter of the doctors’ union was still attending to patients as they awaited a statement from the national body regarding joining the strike.
In Lagos, the commercial hub, doctors were still attending to admitted patients, but no new patients were being admitted.
The resident doctors, who constitute a significant portion of Nigeria’s tertiary hospital doctors, have gone on strike until their demands concerning salaries and welfare are met. They are seeking immediate payment of salary arrears owed to them, a new hazard allowance, and the establishment of a training fund.
Given Nigeria’s fragile healthcare system, strikes by resident doctors could have a substantial impact on medical services in government hospitals nationwide.
Founder and General Overseer of Life Assembly Worship Centre, Reverend Christian Kwabena Andrews, popularly known as Osofo Kyiri Abosom, has announced his intention to take drastic measures against former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, over monies spent on distilling the Odaw River in the Greater Accra Region.
In an interview on Kingdom FM, Osofo Kyiri Abosom indicated that he would put the former Sanitation Minister behind bars should he be elected president.
According to him, it is unacceptable for the former Minister to spend huge sums of money on what he describes at little work done.
“If God doesn’t not take her away and I become President, I will prosecute her. How can you tell me you used 43 million dollars for such a thing,” he said.
On 23rd February 2021, Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah answered questions on the funds Ghana received from the World Bank to support the Greater Accra and Integrated Development initiative.
In Parliament, an MP asked the Minister to account for the $570 million provided by the World Bank.
In her response, Mrs Cecilia Dapaah revealed that the Ministry of Sanitation received an amount of $43million from the total figure.
She did not provide a very detailed breakdown of how the money was spent, but however, noted that the money was use to “to cap about five feet around Pantang and then the Odaw Basin.”
She also added that money was spent to “clean up the Odaw Basin to make the channels open for water to flow in.”
For Osofo Kyiri Abosom, the money spent on the project is not worth the work done.
“We gave her 43 million dollars to beautify Accra, then she told us that she used all the funds to distill the Odaw River. Go look at it. It is an eye sore,” he bemoaned.
The Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development project (GARID) is the first in a series of projects designed to build the resilience of the national capital with the intial phase covering a five-year period (2020-2025).
The goal of the project is to improve flood risk and solid waste management in the Odaw River basin of the Greater Accra region and improve access to basic infrastructure and services in the targeted communities within the Odaw River Basin.
He then slammed the victim’s head to a metallic bed, causing part of his head to swell and bleed.
He has been dismissed the by school management for his actions.
Meanwhile, the victim, who was initially suspended, has been called back to the school and is currently receiving medical treatment and psychological support to aid his recovery from the traumatic incident.
The said student who recorded the video will be suspended externally for one week and also face internal suspension for another week.
The other students who were at the scene but did not intervene and also failed to report the incident will also face severe internal punishment, the tweet added.
Also, the housemaster and his Deputy who are to supervise the behaviour of students they are responsible for will be suspended immediately pending the outcome of the findings by GES.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, leading the school to take prompt action by suspending all students involved pending further investigations.
Also, there is a national discourse on bullying in Ghanaian schools. Many want the matter addressed with immediate effect.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the importance of the digitalization efforts he has spearheaded during the tenure of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s government.
Speaking at the inaugural Nation Development Conference organized by the Church of Pentecost, which focused on the significance of building moral values to drive Ghana’s development, Dr. Bawumia highlighted that their administration not only advocates for moral values among Ghanaians but has also implemented concrete measures to address unethical behavior.
He specifically cited the successful example of digitalizing the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), which effectively put an end to the misappropriation of state funds within the company.
The digitalization drive played a crucial role in curbing the stealing of funds and promoting transparency in the management of state resources.
“We noticed some very, very interesting piece of data which speaks to the problems of ECG. We look at the data and for a period of four years or so the revenue of ECG was virtually constant. We said this cannot be possible. How can you get more customers and revenue was virtually the same?
“They didn’t even take their time to change the value, so we sent in a team to look at the architecture of revenue collection at ECG and digitalise the process. They were collecting GH¢450 million a month.
“When we sent in the team, there was subrogate, a malware was introduced into the system by people working right there and we then brought in a whole new architecture. And after the completion of this digitalisation process, GH¢450 million a month increased into GH¢1.2 billion every month,” he narrated.
During the inaugural National Development Conference, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia highlighted the significant achievements made through digitalization efforts in the Akufo-Addo government. He cited examples such as the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) where digitalization effectively curbed misappropriation of state funds. Furthermore, revenue collection agencies, including the Passport Office, saw a remarkable increase in revenue from GH¢1 million to GH¢64 million per year, demonstrating the success of these measures.
The conference, held in collaboration with the Ghana Journalists Association, centered on the theme “Moral Vision and National Development.” Its primary focus was to discuss the necessity of a national moral vision accompanied by a concerted effort for overall national development.
The event was graced by prominent figures, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, and former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and John Dramani Mahama.
Various government officials attended the conference, including Minister for Finance Ken Ofori-Atta, Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Stephen Asamoah Boateng, and Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare.
The conference, which commenced on July 27, 2023, was attended by Members of Parliament, including Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, as well as members of the Council of State. Notably present were also members of the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana, representatives from various churches in Ghana, and representatives from the National Chief Imam.
A viral video circulating on social media has shed light on the intense competition among medical students at the University of Ghana (UG) for seats on a school bus.
The bus involved in this incident bears the branding “School of Biomedical and Allied Health” transport, indicating its specific relevance to medical students’ transportation needs
The bus service is crucial for these students as their classes are primarily held off-campus in the School of Biomedical and Allied Health.
In the video, students from the School of Biomedical and Allied Health can be seen engaged in a frantic battle to secure a spot on the limited number of available seats.
The scene depicts a chaotic rush, with some students resorting to extreme measures like jumping through bus windows in their quest to avoid being late or secure their preferred seats.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has issued a two-week ultimatum to COCOBOD (Ghana’s Cocoa Board) for the submission of its audited report concerning cocoa roads.
This report will encompass details about the contracts awarded by COCOBOD for cocoa roads, the current status of these projects, and the payments made to the contractors involved.
Minority Chief Whip, Governs Kwame Agbodza, voiced his exasperation during the committee meeting over COCOBOD and the Ministry of Agriculture’s persistent refusal to provide these reports to Parliament.
He noted that cocoa road contractors are also concerned about the outcome hence the need to have the report for assurance.
“We just want information because it is getting worse. This is Parliament, we need to do something about it …so it is not witch-hunting it is just to find a solution to a problem affecting everybody in the country,” he said.
PAC Chair James Klutse Avedzi on the back of this development, cited the constitution which empowers committees of Parliament to demand documents from institutions.
He, therefore, directed COCOBOD to submit the report in two weeks.
“We want you to give us that report. Whether it has been submitted somewhere or not, we are demanding it. Well, we give you two weeks,” he said.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources says government is committed to ensuring that the exploitation of lithium is done in a manner that accords with the national interest.
“The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources wishes to assure the general public that it remains committed to the efficient, effective and sustainable exploitation and management of the natural resources of our country, in the spirit of transparency, anchored on integrity and utmost good faith, for the benefit of the Ghanaian people,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry made the pronouncement in a statement dated July 26 while refuting claims that it has granted licenses to companies to exploit the country’s lithium.
The Ministry emphasized that “no company has been granted a lease, licence and/or permit to exploit, mine and/or produce lithium in Ghana.”
According to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Jinapor, such reports should be disregarded by the public.
Various explorations for lithium are currently ongoing, the Ministry noted.
The Lands Ministry has submitted a policy proposal for the regulation, exploitation and management of Ghana’s green minerals, including lithium, which is currently being scrutinised by Cabinet.
The overarching goal of the policy is to ensure that the exploitation of these critical minerals inure to the benefit of the people of Ghana, the true owners of these resources.
When approved, the policy will form the basis for all agreements, leases, licences, and permits for the exploitation and utilisation of the country’s green minerals.
In 2018, Ghana discovered lithium in commercial quantities. Lithium deposits have been discovered in the Central, Western and Volta regions thus far.
Lithium is a rare earth mineral that has gained prominence in recent times owing to the critical role it plays in the growing electric vehicle (EV) revolution which relies on lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.
Ghana is set to begin mining its lithium deposits once Atlantic Lithium Ltd’s Ewoyaa Lithium Project’s first mine comes online next year.
A senior member of Alan’s Campaign Team and a parliamentary aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Evalue Ajomoro Gwira constituency, Catherine Afeku, has encouraged delegates to exercise their right to vote ‘skirt and blouse’ in the upcoming NPP Presidential and Parliamentary primaries.
Speaking to party supporters after picking nomination forms, Madam Afeku urged the constituents to cast their ballots for her as their Member of Parliament (MP) while also endorsing any Presidential candidate of their choice vying for the NPP flagbearer position.
She highlighted the significance of local representation and emphasized that the role of an MP is paramount when it comes to addressing the day-to-day concerns of the constituency.
“When you come to the constituency, does the president come here? When you’re sick, I’m the one in the constituency to take care of you and not the presidential aspirant or president. When I win, I will go to Parliament, and the President goes to Jubilee House,” Catherine Afeku stated.
She passionately urged them to vote for her as the MP while exercising their discretion to support any Presidential aspirant they believed would best lead the party.
“If you support Presidential candidate A or B, it’s not part of the constituency election, so you can choose me as your parliamentary representative and vote for any Presidential aspirant you want. Don’t let anyone intimidate you into thinking otherwise,” she told the gathering.
The Ministry for Lands and Natural Resources has refuted claims that it has granted licenses to companies to exploit the country’s lithium.
According to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Jinapor, such reports should be disregarded by the public.
In a press statement dated July 26, 2023, the Ministry emphasized that “no company has been granted a lease, licence and/or permit to exploit, mine and/or produce lithium in Ghana.”
Various explorations for lithium are currently ongoing, the Ministry noted.
The Lands Ministry has submitted a policy proposal for the regulation, exploitation and management of Ghana’s green minerals, including lithium, which is currently being scrutinised by Cabinet.
The overarching goal of the policy is to ensure that the exploitation of these critical minerals inure to the benefit of the people of Ghana, the true owners of these resources.
When approved, the policy will form the basis for all agreements, leases, licences, and permits for the exploitation and utilisation of the country’s green minerals.
According to the Lands Ministry, government is committed to ensuring that the exploitation of these minerals and others are done in a manner that accords with the national interest.
“The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources wishes to assure the general public that it remains committed to the efficient, effective and sustainable exploitation and management of the natural resources of our country, in the spirit of transparency, anchored on integrity and utmost good faith, for the benefit of the Ghanaian people, ” the statement concluded.
In 2018, Ghana discovered lithium in commercial quantities. Lithium deposits have been discovered in the Central, Western and Volta regions thus far.
Lithium is a rare earth mineral that has gained prominence in recent times owing to the critical role it plays in the growing electric vehicle (EV) revolution which relies on lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.
Ghana is set to begin mining its lithium deposits once Atlantic Lithium Ltd’s Ewoyaa Lithium Project’s first mine comes online next year.
Member of Parliament for Jirapa, Cletus Dapilah, has bemoaned the insufficient salary paid to legislators at the end of every month by the government.
MPs receive an average of GHS10,000, and according to Mr Dapilah, “most MPs are not very happy with” this situation.
He emphasised that both sides of the House – Majority and Minority share the same sentiment over how much they earn.
“Most MPs are not very happy with their salaries. The leadership of Parliament is aware of this. Both sides and every other MP, whether Majority or Minority, they are not happy about their salary situation,” he said in an interview on JoyNews.
“It is the magnitude of the hardship in the country. Go to Parliament. Let them interview the MPs, and they will tell you,” he added.
According to Mr Dapilah, most if not all MPs are burdened with taking care of their constituents – an initiative supposed to have been shouldered by Municipal Chief Executives (MCEs) and District Chief Executives (DCEs).
“The MP’s salary is for everybody. The MP’s salary is not just for the MP. Whatever the MP is paid, it is still for everybody. We earn GHS10,000. Some people don’t even get it because of the deductions on loans. Sometimes people sympathize with the Minority MP because they say you are not in government,” he added.
Justifying why GHS10,000 is insatiable, Cletus Dapilah said he could spend half of his salary on fuel during a trip from Accra to Jirapa.
He ruled out the option of public transit arguing that it would defeat the purpose of urgency.
“I can be called to attend to a situation in the constituency, I cannot.. The busses move in the evening, if I am to wait to board the busses, then it means I am not going to solve the problem. I pay my driver. I buy my fuel, I service my car,” he stated.
Amidst investigations into a recent assault by a final year student against a colleague in Quaque House, it has emerged that Adisadel College in the Central Region is in a state of mayhem as authorities have lost control over the students.
Currently, Housemasters of the school carry along weapons such as cutlass, whenever they get to campus, according to a concerned parent who enrolled his son in the second cycle institution in 2021.
In an interview on CitiFM, the anonymous male parent cited a teacher of the school as his source of information. He noted that Housemasters do so as a form of protection against the hostile students. This, he says has been happening for at least two years.
“So the teacher told me even the Senior House master when they are walking they walk with a cutlass. The House masters while walking on campus, some of them put some gadgets on them because they are scared of the students. Because they can be attacked,” he said.
He stressed: “I don’t know what is going on at that school. It is so terrible. Law and order has broken down in the school completely.”
The aggrieved parent used the opportunity to also highlight the brutality meted against his son.
He recounted the period when his ward was tasked by a group of seniors to purchase 20 sachets of water with 50 pesewas. Failing to execute the task, the young boy was pounced upon and beaten.
“They will use the belt and hook. When they are coming, they come in a group like 8, 10, 20. So when they come, you can’t do anything. So they will be beating you from any angle.
They gave my boy 50 pesewas to go and buy water about 20 sachets for the seniors and he said I don’t have anything on me. How can I use 50 pesewas to buy 20 sachets of water. That was the only thing he told them. How they beat my boy. I was so mad. That is why I called the master,” he bitterly narrated.
According to the parent, he has on several occasions informed school authorities of the reports he receives from his son, however, their response remains ” the students – that is how they have been behaving.”
He noted that he has not been able to raise the issue during a Parent and Teachers Association (PTA) meeting due to the track system.
“Normally because of the system they are running, my boy is in the house now and they are in school, so sometimes, the PTA will come on while the guys are in house. I try to communicate with the Headmaster and the assistant Headmaster. You will say it and they will say the students that is how they have been behaving.”
The parent noted that he was been compiling the relevant evidence to provide the Ghana Education Service.
His plea is “I want that thing to be stopped” as “the bullying is getting out of hand in Adisadel College.”
Two Community Mining Scheme (CMS) concessions have been launched in Moseaso-Abransie, Manso-Nkwanta constituency, Ashanti Region, with the aim of creating a combined 7,500 job opportunities.
Representing the Sector Minister at the ceremony on July 26, 2023, Hon. Mireku Duker pledged to advocate for responsible small-scale mining as it offers numerous job opportunities for Ghanaians.
The Manso-Nkwanta and Moseaso-Abransie CMS concessions are expected to create 4,500 and 3,000 direct and indirect jobs, respectively.
These 7,500 employment opportunities will be available to residents of the two communities and their surroundings, contributing to the over one million jobs already created in the small-scale mining industry for Ghanaians.
Comparing this substantial number of jobs to the meager 30,000 offered by large-scale mining, Hon. Mireku Duker questioned the criticism faced by the small-scale mining sector, which historically has been instrumental in providing socio-economic opportunities for Ghanaians.
He highlighted the positive impact of the Community Mining Scheme in reducing poverty in mining communities and fostering local players in the mining industry. The Deputy Minister called on the chiefs, residents of Manso-Nkwanta district, and all Ghanaians to unite against mining activities that harm the country’s water bodies and environment, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in the government’s anti-galamsey fight.
Hon. Mireku Duker praised the two companies for adhering to the CMS manual and urged them to engage in community development projects to foster peace and harmony between the firms and local communities.
He also condemned illegal mining activities along the Black Volta and assured that measures are being taken to eradicate these activities and protect the river.
Hon. Nii Larteh Ollenu, the District Chief Executive of Amansie West, commended the Ministry and Minerals Commission for the innovation, expressing confidence that it will significantly reduce the unemployment rate in the district.
Hon. George Obeng Takyi, the Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta Constituency, emphasized that small-scale mining is the domain of Ghanaians, and the government’s initiative ensures that citizens directly benefit from the country’s natural resources.
He promised to play his part in ensuring strict adherence to mining protocols, encouraging the government to open more concessions and provide employment opportunities for his constituents.
Daniel Osei-Kuffour, husband of Cecilia Abena Dapaah is now a subject of national interest following reports that he and his wife were robbed off of cash including $1 million, €300,000, GH¢350,000, as well as jewellery and other valuables by their housemaids.
Many are questioning the source of the money allegedly stolen. Amid the uncertainties, it has been reported that Mr Osei-Kuffuor claims ownership of the €300,000 reportedly stolen.
For some Ghanaians, the news is not far-fetching owing to the professional life of the octogenarian.
Daniel Osei-Kuffour is said to own an architectural firm named Daniel Osei-Kuffour, Sohne and Partners he built with a friend in 1978.
The company has engaged in several pivotal projects worth millions of dollars and euros.
Let’s take a look at some major projects executed by Daniel Osei-Kuffour, Sohne and Partners.
GCB Headquarters, High Street, Accra (1998)
Daniel Osei-Kuffour, Sohne and Partners undertook the sketch design, working drawing and supervision.
This project is said to have come at a cost of GHS8 million.
Embassy premises of the Embassy of the Russian Federation (2001)
This project cost an amount of $15 million.
The project involved Embassy Complex composed of Chancery, Ambassador’s Residence, Staff Accommodation, School block and Recreational facilities. Client – Embassy of The Russian Federation.
Office building of the Canadian High Commission (2001)
The project was worth $600,000. It involved a New Immigration Building, Accra and work involved Tender Documents & Supervision.
New office of the College of Physicians and Surgeons
The project cost $3 million
Tamale Teaching Hospital (2004) – worth €35 million
This involved Sketch Design, Working Drawings & Supervision.
Brief description – Major Rehabilitation and Expansion from a Regional Hospital into a Teaching Hospital with staff Housing. The company’s client was Ministry of Health
Silver Star Tower (2003 -2006) – worth $8 million
The project involved Local Architectural support at Post Contract.
Brief description – 9-storey Motor Showrooms, offices and Bank. Client – Japan Motors Trading Company Limited.
SIC Shopping Mall, Accra (1992) – worth US$8,500,000.00
Brief description – 9 storeys Office Block with basement parking and a modern Shopping Mall with internal Plaza. Client – State Insurance Company Limited. (SIC) / THORPE ROAD PROJECT.
General Manager of Citi FM & Citi TV, Bernard Koku Avle, has taken a swipe at President Akufo-Addo over his acceptance letter in response to Madam Cecilia Dapaah’s resignation as Sanitation and Water Resources Minister.
According to Mr Avle, the President appears to have a penchant for acquitting individuals accused of criminal offense while being investigated.
On July 23, 2023, Madam Dapaah announced her resignation owing to her involved in a theft case involving $1 million, €300,000, GH¢350,000, as well as jewellery and other valuables in her home at Akpelemkpe.
According to Madam Cecilia Dapaah, she decided to resign to “prevent this matter from becoming a preoccupation of government and a hindrance to the work of government at such a crucial time.”
She also assured of her willingness to cooperate fully with all state agencies to enable them fully establish the facts.
Hours letter, the president issued a letter approving Madam Dapaah’s resignation.
In the letter dated July 23, President Akufo-Addo said he was confident that the “integrity” “dear” Madam Dapaah exhibited “whilst in office, will be fully established.
This statement by the President, according to Mr Avle, continues to derail the justice system as individuals being investigated or yet to be investigated are paraded as blameless even before actually probing commences.
“It is not witch-hunting and the presidency should not write to exonerate her,” he said.
He therefore entreated the president from intervening in sensitive matters.
“It’s not in his place. He should let institutions work,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mr Avle has called for a probe into the wealth of Madam Cecilia Dapaah and Daniel Osei-Kuffour, her husband.
Currently, the Office of the Special Prosecutor is investigating Madam Dapaah over corruption and corruption-related offenses revolving around the alleged theft of significant amounts of money and valuable items from her residence in Accra.
Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Saeed Muhazu Jibril, has confirmed that the joint operation involving the Military, the Regional Security Council, and the Minerals Commission to eliminate illegal miners on the Black Volta is still ongoing.
The update came after he received a report from the Six Infantry Battalion of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the Savannah Regional Security Council, and the Minerals Commission on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.
The Government’s determination to crack down on illegal mining activities (galamsey) on the River was previously highlighted by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, during a media briefing on Friday, July 21st, 2023.
According to reports, progress has been made, and areas such as Jama, Jugboi, and Bamboi in the Savannah Region have been successfully cleared of illegal miners.
The Minister reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministerial Coordinating Committee on illegal mining to halt such activities along major rivers and water bodies, which have been designated as ‘Red Zones’ by the Government.
The efforts aim to curb the detrimental impact of illegal mining on the environment and natural resources in the region.
Many Ghanaians are curious to know the professional life of Cecilia Abena Dapaah’s husband after it emerged that the couple were allegedly robbed of cash included $1 million, €300,000, GH¢350,000, as well as jewellery and other valuables by their housemaids.
On July 25, Ghanaian journalist, Paul Adom-Otchere stated that the missing €300,000 belongs to Madam Dapaah’s husband.
“We are now accounting for €300,000 of Cecilia Dapaah’s husband who says the money is for him. He claims it in the statement to the police,” he said on Good Evening Ghana.
Since news broke of the alleged theft, some Ghanaians registered that the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Madam Dapaah could not have acquired such amount in the capacity as Minister.
Hence, attention was directed towards the former minister’s husband. Some individuals believe that the huge sums of money belong to Madam Dapaah’s as his line of work provides him the opportunity to rake in such figures.
Who is Cecilia Dapaah’s husband?
Octogenarian Daniel Osei-Kuffour is the husband of Cecilia Abena Dapaah. He served as an Ambassador under the Kufuor administration. He started off as a volunteer under Ambassador Nzekele Kitsodi of Zaire in Accra and rose to the powerful position of Secretary to President John Agyekum Kufour (2001–2008).
Most importantly, he is an architect. Per reports, together with a friend, Mr Osei-Kuffour started his architectural firm named Daniel Osei-Kuffour, Sohne and Partners in 1978.
Sources say Daniel Osei-Kuffour is worth at least $5 million.
Here are 6 major projects executed by Daniel Osei-Kuffour, Sohne and Partners
GCB Headquarters, High Street, Accra
He undertook the sketch design, working drawing and supervision.
This cost an amount GHS 8 million.
Embassy premises of the Embassy of the Russian Federation
This project cost an amount of $15 million.
Office building of the Canadian High Commission
The project was worth $600,000
New office of the College of Physicians and Surgeons
Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has disclosed that his ministry still has outstanding arrears to pay former Black Stars head coaches, Milovan Rajevac and Charles Kwablan Akonnor, for their time with the national team.
“We still owe Milovan [Rajevac],” he said at a press briefing.
“All of C.K and Milovan, once their contract was terminated, we sat with them, negotiated their exit and C.K was paid $100,000 immediately after the negotiation same as Milovan.
“We still owe both of them and we have payment scheduled which I will admit we have not followed because of constraints of funds. As and when we get funds, we will be paying the two coaches,” he said.
Due to the challenge, the duo have threatened to take legal action against the ministry, Mr Mustapha Ussif announced.
“Both of them have written to the Ghana Football Association threatening to go to court,” he continued.
“We have appealed to them that we are committed to making sure we settle whatever we have agreed with them.”
Milovan Rajevac, a Serbian coach, was reappointed for the second time as the coach of the senior national team in September 2021 during the qualifiers for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
He also led the team during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon, where they were eliminated in the group stage and subsequently relieved of his duties.
Milovan replaced Charles Kwablan Akonnor as the head coach, as Akonnor was let go after the Black Stars’ defeat to South Africa. Despite both coaches having lost their jobs, reports indicated that the Sports Ministry owed them money, and although an initial payment was made, there is still an outstanding amount left to settle.
Former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, has been embroiled in a controversy over the alleged theft of huge sums of money from her home by her maids. The incident led to her resignation and subsequent arrest by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
According to reports, the stolen cash included $1 million, €300,000, GH¢350,000, as well as jewellery and other valuables. The OSP has also found more cash at two other residences of the former minister in Cantonments and Abelemkpe.
However, some sources have claimed that part of the money belonged to the former minister’s deceased brother, Nana Akwasi Eddan II, who was the Numuahene of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. He was a farmer, a contractor and a manufacturer of security boots.
Ghanaian journalist Paul Adom-Otchere revealed on his show ‘Good Evening Ghana’ that $800,000 out of the total amount reportedly stolen was in a box given to Cecilia Dapaah by her mother, Nana Ode Nyarko II (of blessed memory), before she passed away.
He said that Nana Akwasi Eddan II had plans to use the money for construction works but died before he could execute them. His mother then handed over the money to Cecilia Dapaah, who was a minister at the time and had police protection.
“It was delivered in a box. It is the same box stolen that the mother delivered to Cecilia, that your brother has passed. He left me this money for his contractor work. He said he was going to buy land at Bremang and build houses and sell. That is what he told me and that is what this money is for. So can you please take the money and call the other family people,” Adom-Otchere quoted the mother as saying.
He added that some of the family members confirmed the source of the money to the police and wrote statements to that effect.
Meanwhile, a member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communications team, Clement Wilkinson, suggested that Cecilia Dapaah might have received donations towards the funeral ceremony of her brother, which took place in April 2022.
“The company which received $43 million dollars to dredge the Odaw river could have given Cecilia Dapaah $2 million dollars in funeral donation. You know until the family meets to look at the entire donation, it would not be touched. It could be the reason the money was at her home,” he said.
The case is still under investigation by the OSP, which has charged five suspects with conspiracy to commit a crime and stealing. The suspects are Patience Botwe (18), Sarah Agyei (30), who are both maids of Cecilia Dapaah, and three others who allegedly benefited from the stolen money.
Amid the controversy surrounding the ‘stolen’ cash from the house of former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, it was reported that part of the funds was to be used to cater for the burial of the former minister’s deceased brother.
A member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communications team, Clement Wilkinson, claimed that Madam Cecilia might have received donations towards the funeral ceremony.
“The company which received $43 million dollars to dredge the Odaw river could have given Cecilia Dapaah $2 million dollars in funeral donation. You know until the family meets to look at the entire donation, it would not be touched. It could be the reason the money was at her home,” he is quoted to have said.
But on 25th July 2023, Ghanaian journalist Paul Adom-Otchere during his show, Good Evening Ghana, revealed that $800,000 out of the total amount reportedly stolen belonged to Madam Dapaah’s deceased brother, Nana Akwasi Eddan II, 60, the Numuahene of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
According to Mr Adom-Otchere, the said amount was in a box given to Cecilia Dapaah by her mother, Nana Ode Nyarko II (of blessed memory) while she was alive.
“It was delivered in a box. It is the same box stolen that the mother delivered to Cecilia, that your brother has passed.
He noted that Nana Akwasi Eddan II had plans to use the fund for construction works but upon his demise as such the family found it prudent to hand the money over to Madam Dapaah due to the security she enjoyed from her position.
The late mother of Dapaah, he said stated that “He ( Nana Ode Nyarko II) left me this money for his contractor work. He said he was going to buy land at Bremang and build houses and sell. That is what he told me and that is what this money is for. So can you please take the money and call the other family people.
“I understand one of them them remarked that ‘give to to Aunty Ceci, she is a Minister and has a police officer.’ So the money was given to Aunty Ceci. She carried the money and brought it to Accra. Told her husband that ‘your brother in-laws money’. Eno (Cecilia’s mother) gave it it me and Eno died after that.
After Eno died, they buried Eno and they came to deal with it.”
Mr Adom-Otchere reports that “those brothers have also written to the police, confirming the source of this money.”
Profile of Nana Ode Nyarko II
Nana Akwasi Eddan II was a farmer, a contractor and a manufacturer of security boots, supplied in Ghana and in some West African countries like La Cote Divoire.
His company’s name is CDN Company Limited.
His funeral arrangements were as follows:
Lying in state: (Doteyie) Wednesday 27th- Thursday 28, April, 2022, at Family House – Bantama near Bantama Parliament.
Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie, has admitted to being an introvert, corroborating many reports that he is not sociable.
Engaging host Angela Yee in an interview on Way Up, Sarkodie revealed that his “laid back” behaviour stems from the difficulty he faced during his childhood.
According to the rapper born, Michael Owusu Addo, he had to stay with an individual whose identity he failed to disclose as he had no idea about the whereabouts of his parents.
During his stay with the said person, Sarkodie said he faced lost of challenges with did not provide him “the best experience” while growing up.
“I had to live with somebody when I went through serious hardship. It was a tough beginning. I didn’t know where mum and dad was. I was staying with this person and I had to go throw serious hardship,” he recounted without so much details.
For him, this difficulty “created the laid back” personality where he would prefer to “watching stuff and not getting involved too much and watching life from this perspective.”
He however holds no grudge. According to Sarkodie, “they didn’t know better at that time.” Nonetheless, “it doesn’t take away the fact that it happened,” he quickly added.
Every cloud has a silver lining and Sarkodie’s life proves that.
The rapper noted that during such challenging times, he developed the skill of writing which eventually turned into music.
“That’s where I developed writing and it turned into music. Cos I needed a way to speak about the way I was feeling. I was too much a friend-clique type of person. It was a good therapy for me,” he added.
Ghanaian forward, Kelvin Andoh, has made a lucrative move to Libyan topflight team, Al Hilal SC Benghazi ya Libya.
The former Asante Kotoko player has inked a two-year contract worth $260,000 with the club, which is also renewable.
The deal aims to bolster Al Hilal SC Benghazi’s performance in both domestic football and continental competitions.
Taking to Twitter, Andoh expressed his delight after completing the transfer.
In the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup, Andoh and his new team are set to face Kenyan side Kakamega Homeboyz in the first round. Should they advance, they will take on Rwanda’s Rayon Sports in the subsequent stage.
Notably, Andoh played a crucial role in helping Wa All Stars secure the Ghana Premier League title in 2016, showcasing his talent and abilities on the field.
Kenya’s President William Ruto has expressed his willingness to meet with opposition leader Raila Odinga in the wake of the ongoing cost-of-living protests that have led to dozens of fatalities.
Mr. Odinga has been at the forefront of these demonstrations, urging the government to take measures to reduce taxes and alleviate the burden of other price increases.
In response to the escalating situation, President Ruto has indicated his readiness for a meeting with Mr. Odinga to address the pressing concerns raised by the protesters.
“My friend @RailaOdinga, I am off to Tanzania for a human capital meeting to harmonise the expansion of employment opportunities in our continent. I’m back [on Wednesday] evening, and as you have always known, I’m available to meet one on one with you anytime at your convenience,” he tweeted.
Following a media briefing by Mr. Odinga, where he asserted that President Ruto had turned down an offer by the Tanzanian president to mediate between the government and the opposition, President Ruto has expressed his readiness to meet with the opposition leader amid the ongoing cost-of-living protests that have resulted in numerous casualties.
Mr. Odinga has strongly criticized the police for their harsh treatment of the protesters and has called for vigils on Wednesday to honor those who lost their lives during the demonstrations.
Lionel Messi made an iconic ‘hold my beer’ celebration directed at Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham after a remarkable performance in a match against Atlanta United.
In his first start for Inter Miami, the Argentine forward stole the spotlight, scoring a brace and providing an assist in a stunning 4-0 victory during the Leagues Cup at DRV PNK Stadium.
The 36-year-old opened the scoring in the eighth minute, capitalizing on a through ball from former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets. Although his initial shot hit the woodwork, Messi calmly tapped in the rebound to find the net.
The goal triggered wild excitement among the crowd, and as Messi walked back towards the halfway line amidst the celebration from his Inter Miami teammates, he noticed Beckham applauding his feat.
Playfully, the 2022 World Cup winner responded with a ‘hold my beer’ gesture aimed at the former England international, leaving Beckham with a big smile.
In the 22nd minute, Messi scored his second goal after being set up by Robert Taylor. Demonstrating his prowess as a team player, right before half-time, he provided an exquisite assist to help Taylor score a goal. The Finnish striker added another goal in the second half, securing Inter Miami’s smooth advancement to the next round of the Leagues Cup.
Since arriving in the United States, Messi has been making headlines, having already scored three times in just 58 minutes of play. Fans can look forward to his first MLS outing against Charlotte on August 20.
The US attorney has announced that Tottenham owner Joe Lewis has been charged in New York for allegedly “orchestrating a brazen insider trading scheme.”
Damian Williams, the US attorney for the Southern District of New York, said in a video released by his office: “Today I’m announcing that my office, the Southern District of New York, has indicted Joe Lewis, the British billionaire, for orchestrating a brazen insider trading scheme.
“We allege that for years Joe Lewis abused his access to corporate boardrooms and repeatedly provided inside information to his romantic partners, his personal assistants, his private pilots and his friends.
“Those folks then traded on that inside information and made millions of dollars in the stock market, because thanks to Lewis those bets were a sure thing.”
Mr Williams described Lewis’s behaviour as “classic corporate corruption”.
He said: “Now, none of this was necessary. Joe Lewis is a wealthy man. But as we allege, he used inside information as a way to compensate his employees or to shower gifts on his friends and lovers.
“That’s classic corporate corruption. It’s cheating, and it’s against the law. Laws that apply to everyone, no matter who you are.
“That’s why Joe Lewis has been indicted and will face justice here in the Southern District of New York.”
Joe Lewis, aged 86, is the founder and primary investor of Tavistock Group, an investment firm based in the Bahamas.
In 2001, he acquired a controlling stake in the Premier League club from Lord Sugar for £22 million.
Malian Prime Minister, Choguel Kokalla Maïga, has condemned the US sanctions imposed on the defence minister, air force chief of staff, and his deputy.
He dismissed the sanctions as a mere “distraction” and expressed his unwavering support for the junta officials.
“The sanctions against our valiant officers, Defence Minister Col Sadio Camara, Gen Alou Boi Diarra, Col Adama Bagayoko, have no objectives other than to distract the Malian people. Nothing will distract us from the work of rebuilding Mali,” Mr Maïga has tweeted.
The US Treasury imposed sanction on the three for “facilitating” the expansion of Russia’s Wagner Group in Mali.
The Wagner troops, alongside the Malian army, are facing accusations of committing atrocities in their campaign against jihadists. The United States has reported a significant increase in civilian casualties since their deployment in late 2021.
Among the senior officials in the military government, the Malian Prime Minister stands as the only one to have addressed the issue of sanctions.
The response from Mali, so far, has been measured, in contrast to previous instances where government spokesman Col Abdoulaye Maïga delivered strong rhetoric and accusations of plots to destabilize the ruling junta in diplomatic disputes, particularly with France and the UN.
A momentous partnership was announced by the Ambassadors of the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea to Ghana on Tuesday, July 25, to support Ghana’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.
Through their shared commitment, the partnership seeks to enhance primary healthcare services and fortify global health security defenses in Ghana, preparing the country against current and future pandemic threats. The event, hosted by Health Minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, marked a historic occasion.
This initiative comes at a crucial time as the world is gradually recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, but many countries still face challenges in providing essential health services.
The agreement signed during the event will foster a collaborative approach, allowing each country to leverage its unique strengths to support Ghana’s public health institutions effectively.
By joining forces, the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea aim to contribute to the advancement of healthcare in Ghana and promote a healthier and more secure future for the nation.
“The United States is committed to working with our global partners to invest in primary health care and global health security,” said U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer.
“No country can afford to stand alone during a pandemic. COVID-19 showed us the power of strategic partnerships with our allies to build a healthier, more equitable, and more prosperous world.
“We are proud to join Japan and the Republic of Korea in this partnership to achieve Universal Coverage in Ghana.”
The Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Mochizuki Hisanobu, said, “This MOC is the first of its kind between all parties and we aim to contribute further to the achievement of universal health coverage in Ghana with USAID and KOICA, by facilitating more efficient development aid.
“Together with our esteemed partners, we will be committed to ensuring we achieve this objective for the people of Ghana.”
The Ambassadors of the Republic of Korea, Japan, and the United States with Ghana Ministry of Health Officials celebrate the signing of the new agreement.
“Through this Memorandum of Cooperation, the Republic of Korea reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting Ghana in achieving Universal Health Coverage and strengthening health security.
“We will work hand in hand with our esteemed partners to improve primary health care services, ensuring that they are easily accessible and of the highest quality,” said the Republic of Korea Ambassador to Ghana, Jung-taek Lim.
The partnership between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea in Ghana is facilitated by their respective development agencies: the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). This collaboration aims to support three key health priorities in Ghana:
Strengthening primary health care, including the enhancement of the Community-Based Health Planning and Services and health centers to improve the quality of health services.
Enhancing health governance at the sub-national level, focusing on regions and districts to ensure effective healthcare management.
Fortifying global health security to prepare for and respond to potential epidemics and pandemics.
Given the current state of global health indicators, such as declining life expectancy and childhood vaccinations, this agreement becomes even more crucial. It allows countries like Ghana to invest in primary health care and global health security, enabling them to rebuild their health systems and better prepare for future health emergencies.
The United States, represented by USAID, plans to allocate up to $135 million for these efforts in Ghana until 2027, pending appropriate approvals. Additionally, KOICA intends to invest approximately $23 million, while JICA will provide both technical expertise and financial resources, subject to obtaining necessary approvals. This combined effort aims to make a significant positive impact on Ghana’s healthcare landscape and contribute to the nation’s overall well-being.
The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has decided to proceed with its investigations despite preliminary objections raised by the Finance Minister and the Secretary of the National Cathedral Board of Trustees, Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng.
The objections were related to an amount of GH¢2.6 million paid to JNS Talent, a company owned by Rev. Kusi Boateng.
In its ruling, CHRAJ dismissed the objections and upheld the validity of the complaint filed by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
This means that the commission will continue its inquiry into the matter, seeking to shed light on the allegations and ensure a thorough examination of the financial transaction in question.
“It is therefore clear that although a company is a separate legal entity from its members and officers, there are instances under which the corporate veil will be pierced. This is to enable one to go behind the mere status of the company as a separate legal entity distinct from its shareholders/members and to allow one to consider who are the persons, shareholders or even agents, directing and controlling the activities of the company.
“It is the case of the Complainant that the National Cathedral of Ghana has by its board, indulged in procurement breaches and as such, it is only right that in the interest of public policy, the Board be made a party to this investigation so as to ensure an efficient and expeditious exercise. For the above-enunciated reasons, the preliminary objections raised by the Respondents are overruled and the Commission will thus continue with its investigations in the matter.”
In January 2023, Mr. Okudzeto Ablakwa lodged a petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) requesting an investigation into Reverend Victor Kusi-Boateng, the Secretary of the National Cathedral Board of Trustees. The petition raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, including allegations of possessing multiple identities and engaging in other purported criminal activities.
The petition, received by two Deputy Commissioners of CHRAJ, specifically pointed out an alleged transfer of GH¢2.6 million from the National Cathedral Secretariat to JNS Talent Centre Limited, a company owned by Rev. Kusi-Boateng under the name Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.
Mr. Ablakwa’s objective in filing the petition was to invoke CHRAJ’s mandate as provided by Article 218 of the 1992 Constitution to investigate what he termed as an “odious conflict of interest” regarding Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng’s position on the National Cathedral Board. The allegation was that he paid his own company a substantial sum of GH¢2.6 million without any corresponding work being done.
The petition highlighted that Rev. Kusi-Boateng, also the founder of Power Chapel Worldwide, was allegedly operating under the identity of Kwabena Adu Gyamfi when the GH¢2.6 million payment was made by the National Cathedral Board.
“For the avoidance of doubt, there is no distinct Kwabena Adu Gyamfi. Kwabena Adu Gyamfi is a criminal creation of Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng. The two are, therefore, one and the same,” Mr Ablakwa alleged in a statement on his Facebook wall that preceded the petition.
Mr Ablakwa said documents revealed that two other persons, Sheila Eshun and Kwabena Adu Gyamfi were also directors of JNS Talent Centre Limited.
“From unassailable and irreproachable documents in my possession, Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng, aka Kwabena Adu Gyamfi, uses multiple passports and multiple identification cards with different names and different dates of birth as his special modus operandi.”
Deputy Minister for Education, John Ntim Fordjour, on Tuesday, July 25, called for a meeting with the Headmaster of Adisadel College and the management of the Ghana Education Service (GES) in response to a recent student assault incident in Quaque House.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Deputy Minister instructed that the disciplinary report concerning the incident be completed and submitted by Thursday, July 27, 2023.
Additionally, Rev. Ntim Fordjour directed the Ghana Education Service’s Counselling Unit to provide psycho-social support for the affected students, starting from July 26, 2023, as they prepare to sit for their WASSCE next week.
Moreover, the Central Regional Education Directorate and the key staff of Adisadel College were urged to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to bring closure to this matter.
After the meeting, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour took the injured student to the hospital for a comprehensive medical examination and treatment.
The Ministry of Education expressed gratitude to the public for their concern and interest in this issue, reassuring all stakeholders that the GES is committed to ensuring a safe school environment for effective teaching and learning.
Tafari Campbell was reported missing on July 23, 2023, and tragically, his death was confirmed the next day, as stated on the Massachusetts State Police website.
The professional chef had gone out paddleboarding that Sunday, and when he did not return, he was reported missing during the early hours of the night, according to CNN.
Subsequently, officials recovered his body from the Edgartown Great Pond in Martha’s Vineyard, confirming it was Tafari’s.
The famous couple expressed their sorrow and shared that the late 45-year-old chef had been their personal chef, a role he held with pride.
Tafari Campbell was the personal chef to the Obama family. (Courtesy of Youtube)
“When we first met him, he was a talented sous chef at the White House — creative and passionate about food, and its ability to bring people together,” the pair said in a joint-statement. “In the years that followed, we got to know him as a warm, fun, extraordinarily kind person who made all of our lives a little brighter.”
Barack and the former first lady also expressed their condolences to Tafari’s loved ones. “Today we join everyone who knew and loved Tafari — especially his wife Sherise and their twin boys, Xavier and Savin — in grieving the loss of a truly wonderful man,” they concluded. Below are five things to know about Tafari amid his passing.
Tafari Campbell pictured at the White House in 2012. (Courtesy of Youtube)
As previously mentioned, Tafari was a proud personal chef. The food-lover worked for the former U.S. president during Barack’s time in the White House, but also in the years that followed. In the 61-year-old’s statement, he and his wife expressed that they asked Tafari to become their personal chef after they had made their lives shine more.
“That’s why, when we were getting ready to leave the White House, we asked Tafari to stay with us, and he generously agreed,” they said their statement. “He’s been part of our lives ever since, and our hearts are broken that he’s gone.”
Delegates of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) from Kwesimintsim Constituency in the Western Region gathered to offer Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia fervent prayers and heartfelt gospel songs, seeking victory in the upcoming presidential primaries.
The atmosphere was electrifying, filled with spiritual harmony and unwavering belief as the delegates resolutely declared Dr. Bawumia as the NPP’s finest choice and the ideal candidate to lead both the party and the nation.
In a symbolic gesture of solidarity, the delegates joined hands in a circle, forming a powerful human chain that demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the NPP, Dr. Bawumia, and the party’s principles.
NPP faithful in support of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia
During the prayer session, they fervently beseeched the Almighty God to guide and protect Dr. Bawumia in his political journey. Their voices united in supplication, seeking divine intervention, vision, and wisdom to lead Ghana towards progress and prosperity.
The air resonated with melodious gospel songs that blended harmoniously with the passionate prayers, creating a deeply moving and spiritual experience for all present, including the Vice President himself.
Some delegates knelt in reverence while others stood, all sharing the same spirit, singing songs that echoed their belief in Dr. Bawumia’s vision, competence, and dedication to propel the NPP and Ghana to greater heights.
Through heartfelt testimonials, the delegates expressed their admiration and trust in Dr. Bawumia’s leadership. They praised his remarkable contributions to the party and the nation, acknowledging his pivotal role in various developmental initiatives and impactful economic policies that have positively transformed numerous lives.
As the America’s Got Talent auditions near their conclusion, there is still a lineup of incredible acts ready to showcase their talents before the judges.
Among them is Zion Clark, who will be auditioning for a spot in the competition during the August 1 episode. Zion’s performance promises to be inspiring and captivating, leaving viewers from all corners of the globe in awe.
But who is Zion Clark? The 25-year-old has faced numerous challenges and obstacles, yet he has never wavered in his determination to achieve his dreams.
HollywoodLife has compiled all the essential information about Zion, providing insights into his extraordinary journey.
Zion Clark during his audition on ‘AGT.’ (NBC)
Zion came into this world with a rare and challenging condition known as Caudal Regression Syndrome, which resulted in him being born without legs. Despite this obstacle, Zion’s spirit and determination have led him to achieve remarkable feats in life.
Standing tall at just over 3 feet, Zion’s journey into the world of sports began with wrestling during his high school years. He demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication, propelling him to compete in wrestling and wheelchair racing events at Kent State University.
In December 2022, Zion achieved yet another milestone when he made his debut in professional mixed martial arts. Impressively, he secured a victory at the Gladiator Challenge: Seasons Beatings event, showcasing his skills, resilience, and unwavering spirit.
Looking ahead, Zion harbors ambitious dreams of becoming the first individual to qualify for both the Olympic and Paralympic teams—an aspiration he shared with Men’s Health. His passion for sports and his relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire and uplift others, proving that no challenge is insurmountable with the right mindset and determination.
Zion wrote on his official website that he was “given up for adoption at birth with no father in the picture and a mother who was unfit to take care of him.” He spent several years in the Ohio foster care system. He was eventually adopted by his foster mother Kimberly Hawkins when he was a senior in high school.
Zion Clark during the July 25 episode of ‘AGT.’ (NBC)
Zion attempted suicide when he was a kid.
“I tried to commit suicide, over and over and over again as a kid,” Zion said in an episode of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, according to MMA Fighting. “I was 10 years old [when I first tried to commit suicide]. There was no other option.” He added, “I wasn’t eating food. I wasn’t getting to take showers. I was just stuck, and on top of that, if I voiced my own opinion, I got the s*** beat out of me. So I was just tired. I would rather sleep forever than deal with the crap I was going through.”
Zion wrote a memoir.
Zion released Work with What You Got: A Memoir in April 2023. He was also the subject of the short documentary film Zion, which was released on Netflix in 2018.
Ghana Medical Relief (GMR), a humanitarian non-governmental organization, has initiated a five-day medical screening program at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) with the aim of providing free healthcare services to approximately 10,000 residents in the Northern Region.
The beneficiaries of this program underwent comprehensive screenings for various medical conditions, including those related to obstetrics, dental health, gynecology, and urology, among others.
On the first day, the medical screening covered residents of the Tamale Metropolis and Sagnarigu Municipality.
Subsequently, for the next four days, the program expanded its reach to include residents from other districts and municipalities within the Northern Region, including the seat of Dagbon in Yendi.
To ensure the smooth execution of the program, beneficiaries were transported to designated health facilities where a dedicated team of 100 medical professionals from both the United States and Ghana provided their expertise and care to those in need.
The collaboration between the medical experts from both countries allowed for a more comprehensive and impactful healthcare experience for the beneficiaries.
Overall, the initiative by Ghana Medical Relief (GMR) serves as a crucial effort in improving healthcare accessibility and addressing the medical needs of the underserved population in the Northern Region of Ghana.
The President of GMR, Dr Samuel Owusu speaking during the commencement of the exercise at the TTH in Tamale, said it was to reach out to people with diverse medical issues, especially vulnerable groups.
“We consider areas of prime interest for our services, most importantly, for the poor, needy and the vulnerable,” he said.
Last year, the team conducted a similar outreach exercise in the Ashanti Region, where they attended to the healthcare needs of nearly 6,000 individuals in the area.
Dr. Owusu, in a recent announcement, stated that as part of the current outreach exercise, GMR plans to purchase approximately 2,000 insurance policies for residents who require the coverage but are unable to afford it.
Dr. Braimah Baba Abubakari, the Northern Regional Director of Ghana Health Service, expressed his admiration for the exercise, emphasizing that the region’s healthcare demands necessitate external support from NGOs and philanthropic organizations to manage the situation effectively.
Dr. Adam Atiku, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of TTH, appreciated the initiative, highlighting that it would alleviate the pressure on the hospital’s resources, allowing them to focus on other areas of equal importance.
Alhaji Shani Alhassan Saibu, the Northern Regional Minister, commended the team for their efforts and urged them to consider making the exercise an annual event. Such continuity would greatly benefit the region, allowing the outreach to reach even more people in need of healthcare assistance.
The situation has taken many users on social media by surprise.
Payment of toll on public roads ceased in November 2021 as part of policy measures announced by government under the 2022 Budget. As such, toll booths were unoccupied by workers tasked to collect tolls.
Per reports, some toll booths were converted into washrooms.
But the recent video comes as a surprise as it is expected that toll booths in the country should have been revamped for operation.
In November 2022, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta announced that the government will reintroduce the collection of road toll on selected roads in the country in 2023.
The reintroduction of the road toll is one of the revenue measures contained in the 2023 budget presented to Parliament by the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta last week.
