TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • ‘Nobody is worth my response’ – Sarkodie on why rarely has ‘beefs’

    ‘Nobody is worth my response’ – Sarkodie on why rarely has ‘beefs’

    Sarkodie has revealed the reason behind his nonchalant attitude in the face of an adversity or what is described in the Ghana entertainment industry as “beefs”.

    According to the rapper, this is because he works with the notion that “nobody is worth my response.”

    “To be very honest, the reason I don’t speak which might sound a certain type of way, but I feel like nobody is worth my response. Which has always been my stance,” he said in an interview on Way Up with host Angela Yee.

    In this interview, Sarkodie made comments with regards to his track “Try Me” – a song that countered the abortion story version shared by Yvonne Nelson in her memoir “I am not Yvonne Nelson” and why he has decided not to respond to the actress’ rebuttal.

    Following the release of “Try Me”, Yvonne Nelson accused Sarkodie of disrespecting womanhood and reiterated her claims that the rapper had a hand in the abortion.

    On the matter, Sarkodie born Michael Owusu Addo clarified he will only respond to a conversation should he find it beneficiary and not regressive.

    “It should be somebody I’m gonna benefit from. Even if I don’t want to respond, I will respond cos I’ll benefit out of it.”

    He added: “But most times, the people that speak about Sarkodie, if I look at them from top to bottom, it isn’t really worth it for me to go back and forth with this person.”

    According to the Ghanaian rapper, he no longer pays heed to unfounded criticism as he has been able to surmount all the negative remarks he heard while growing in his career.

    He noted that he used to give a lot of attention to what people said about him during the genesis of his career, but that is now a thing of the past.

    “When I started the journey, I cared a lot about what people said and I realized that it doesn’t change anything.

    “People said a lot about Sarkodie – I was not gonna be able to be on this platform rapping in my native language. I am here. I’m not gonna be able to do a show in the state – I took the BET award. So now when I hear people speak, I’m like you are just saying something. It is not going to change anything,” he added.

    Right to boast

    Sarkodie, the renowned rapper, has an impressive track record, having received a total of 108 awards from 195 nominations. Among his accolades are 25 Ghana Music Awards. Notably, his debut studio album, “Makye,” earned him three awards each at the 4syte TV Music Video Awards and Ghana Music Awards, and also earned a nomination at the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards.

    His second studio album, “Rapperholic,” garnered recognition at various prestigious events, including the BET Awards, The Headies, Ghana Music Awards, National Youth Achievement Awards, MOBO Awards, and Channel O Music Video Awards in 2012.

    Sarkodie’s collaborative album with Jayso, titled “T.M.G,” secured an award at the 2013 4Syte TV Music Video Awards, as well as a nomination at the 2013 Ghana Music Awards. In the same year, he won Best African Act at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

    The release of “Sarkology” in 2014 brought him further recognition, with several awards at the Ghana Music Awards, MTV Africa Music Award, Independent Music Award, 4syte TV Music Video Awards, Headies Award, and Ghana Music Honor. He also received nominations at the 2014 BET Awards and the 2014 World Music Awards.

    Sarkodie’s contributions to the music industry were celebrated with various awards, including Best West African Act at the 2013 Caribbean American and African Nations Music Awards and Best Rap Act at the 2014 African Muzik Magazine Awards. He was also honored for his exceptional global impact on African music by the organizers of the Afrobeats Music Awards.

    In 2019, Sarkodie’s consistency in Ghanaian music earned him the prestigious artist of the decade award at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.

    In November 2020, he clinched the Ghana DJ Awards for the DJs’ Song of The Year category with his hit song “Oofeetsor” featuring Prince Bright of Bukbak fame.

    Additionally, Sarkodie made history as the first artist to win the Best International Flow award at BET Hip Hop Awards in October 2019.

  • Dumelo ‘boasts’ of employing 400 people to work on his farms annually

    Dumelo ‘boasts’ of employing 400 people to work on his farms annually

    Actor-cum-politician, John Dumelo, has disclosed that he provides employment to approximately 400 people annually to work on his farms.

    He considers this initiative as his small contribution to Ghana’s economy and takes pride in offering others a means of livelihood.

    Dumelo explained that his motivation to venture into farming stemmed from witnessing vast areas of land lying idle in the northern region of Ghana, while the nation continues to import crops that could be cultivated locally.

    This realization fueled his desire to make a positive impact by engaging in agricultural activities.

    “Ten years ago, I was driving to the Northern part of Ghana and saw huge fertile fields on the roadside, which can help the country farm and have more foodstuff to sustain the country. So I made up my mind to zoom into farming,” he stated.

    According to him, agribusiness is a highly profitable venture. However, he expressed concern about the misconception ingrained in the minds of the youth, leading them to believe that farming is solely for elderly individuals or those residing in rural areas.

    During an interview with Nana Jantuah on Nhyira FM’s ‘Kuro Yi Mu Nsem,’ Mr. Dumelo emphasized the urgency of investing more in agriculture. He warned that Ghana might find itself importing eggs in the near future if the country fails to prioritize and enhance its agricultural sector.

    “When you get to our supermarkets, most of the fruits, ginger, and other stuff are imported, which should not be allowed because if we sit idle, one day we will import eggs,” he cautioned.

    The 2020 Ayewaso West Wuogon Parliamentary Candidate of the NDC says he hopes to receive the government’s support to boost his agribusiness.

    “I do not get any support from the government; I finance whatever I am doing on the farm. I hope to receive support from the government and trust I will be called on board.

    “It is very costly because I use my own money to pay all the workers I have employed; for instance, when it is time for harvesting, you have to pay those who uproot and all the value chain, but I am happy about it because I have created employment for others. I can employ 300–400 workers annually,” said Mr Dumelo.

    He added that the only factor that can positively contribute to the growth of agriculture is irrigation.

    “Farming is now expensive, but we have the Volta River, Tunu Dam, and other big streams that can be used for irrigation in agriculture in the country. Hence, if we start irrigation farming on tomatoes, maize, and onions, it will reduce our shortage of those items,” he observed.

    Mr Dumelo says agriculture is very important, and discussion of how to make it attractive and stabilise prices will all be in the blueprint of his 2024 manifesto.

  • Cecilia Dapaah: ‘$1m + €300k and millions of GHS in a Ghanaian Minister’s home, scandalous!!’ – Mahama exclaims

    Cecilia Dapaah: ‘$1m + €300k and millions of GHS in a Ghanaian Minister’s home, scandalous!!’ – Mahama exclaims

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has described as outrageous news regarding some millions of dollars and cedis stolen from the home of Water and Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah.

    It has emerged that two house helps of Cecilia Abena Dapaah, and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, are currently facing charges before an Accra Circuit Court for their alleged involvement in a series of thefts that occurred at the minister’s home in Abelemkpe, Accra, between July and October 2022.

    The accused are 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei.

    Reacting to the news broken by several tabloids, the former President in a tweet on Friday, July 21, questioned the Sanitation Minister’s rationale for keeping such huge amounts of money in her home even it was acquired legally.

    “$1m + €300k and millions of GHS in a Ghanaian Minister’s home? Scandalous!! Even if genuinely acquired, why keep millions of hard currency at home?” he quizzed.

    Owing to this incident, he questioned the leadership of President Akufo-Addo, hinting that the president has failed to set a good example for his public officers.

    “Will @NAkufoAddo ever set a good example for public office holders in his administration?” he asked.

    Millions stolen

    Patience and Sarah are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of stealing, which include amounts of US$1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghana Cedis per a report from The Chronicle.

    The accused are said to have also stolen personal belongings of Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, including clothes valued at GH¢95,000, handbags, perfumes, and jewelry worth US$95,000.

    Patience has been accused of going solo in stealing six pieces of Kente cloth worth GH¢90,000 and six sets of men’s suits valued at US$3,000, belonging to Daniel Osei Kuffour.

    Three other individuals have also been charged in connection with the theft being investigated.

    29-year-old plumber, Benjamin, is accused of dishonestly receiving GH¢180,000, whereas Kweku Botwe, a 65-year-old trader, has been charged for dishonestly receiving GH¢50,000.

    The third, Malik Dauda, 23, who is unemployed, is said to have dishonestly received GH¢1 million.

    All five accused appeared before an Accra Circuit Court presided over by Judge Susana Ekuful on Thursday, July 20, 2023.

    The court granted Sarah bail in the amount of GH¢1 million, and two sureties are required to deposit their Ghana cards with the court’s registrar.

    The bail conditions are however subject to review as Judge Susana Ekuful was serving as a relief judge at the time.

    During her briefing, Judge Susana Ekuful disclosed that Patience, along with her alleged boyfriends and father, has been remanded into lawful custody. However, Sarah, being a breastfeeding mother, was granted bail.

    The prosecution revealed that Patience, also known as Maabena, had previously worked as a house help for the complainants, Daniel Osei Kuffour and his wife, Cecilia Abena Dapaah. Similarly, Sarah had also served as a house help for the couple.

    The alleged thefts came to light in June of the current year when the complainants reported the incidents to the police after discovering missing cash and personal belongings.

    Patience was caught red-handed as she had used a duplicate key to open and enter the couple’s room. Mr. Kuffour apprehended her upon returning home, having noticed that the room was unlocked and hearing suspicious noises from inside.

    Subsequent investigations led to the recovery of the stolen items and money in possession of Patience and her associates.

    It is alleged that the accused used the stolen funds to finance various properties and purchases, including renting a 3-bedroom apartment and a store in Tamale, buying vehicles, and funding other personal expenses.

    The court has adjourned the case to August 2, 2023, to allow for further investigations.

  • Bugri Naabu fumes over “IGP’s boy” tag, reaffirms chieftaincy position

    Former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bugri Naabu, has strongly denied any personal connections with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, amid controversy surrounding an alleged leaked audio discussing plans to remove the IGP.

    In a July 20 interview with Kwesi Parker-Wilson of Oyerepa TV at his office, Bugri Naabu expressed his frustration with people labeling him as the IGP’s “boy.”

    He asserted that such claims are not only infuriating but also disrespectful. Bugri Naabu emphasized that he holds his own authority and standing in society and firmly stated that the IGP is not someone who should be referred to as his “boy.”

    “Who is IGP that I can be his boy? Please don’t get me angry,” he stated, when told by the journalist that the claim was making the rounds in town, he hit back: “but do you believe that, you yourself, how many times haven’t I called you to give you news, do I look like IGP‘s boy? IGP cannot call me his father, but he can call me his Nana (chief); that is who I am,” Bugri Naabu asserted.

    Furthermore, Bugri Naabu stated his willingness to cooperate with any investigation that may arise regarding the leaked audio and its implications.

    “I am a Ghanaian, and so I am not above anything; if I have committed an offense, the offense will chop me,” Bugri Naabu added.

    The alleged leaked audio, which reportedly involves discussions about removing the IGP from office, has garnered public attention and raised concerns about the involvement of influential figures in the nation’s security apparatus.

  • Energy Minister Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh to receive honorary degree from UCC

    Energy Minister Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh to receive honorary degree from UCC

    The University of Cape Coast (UCC) is the latest institution to recognize Energy Minister Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh for his immense contributions to the development of the country.

    The governing council of the institution has decided to confer on the Energy Minister an honorary degree “in recognition of his distinguished service to the University of Cape Coast, Ghana and the International Community and outstanding pioneering role worthy of emulation.”

    The ceremony is set to be held on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at the University of Cape Coast.

    The University has a longstanding tradition of honoring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to both the university and Ghana. Additionally, they recognize those who have made remarkable contributions to the advancement of knowledge.

    Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the former Education Minister, current Energy Minister, and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, has been widely praised for his exemplary leadership and dedicated service in the education sector.

    In recognition of his significant contributions, the University of Education Winneba bestowed upon him an Honorary Doctorate Degree in May 2021.

    Subsequently, in July 2021, the University of Professional Studies honored him with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. Both institutions commended his outstanding leadership qualities and his instrumental role in successfully implementing the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy.

  • How my wife reacted to Yvonne Nelson’s claim, “Try Me”; she was “worried” – Sarkodie reveals

    How my wife reacted to Yvonne Nelson’s claim, “Try Me”; she was “worried” – Sarkodie reveals

    Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie, says to his utmost surprise, his wife, Tracy Sarkcess, handled his banter with actress Yvonne Nelson over an abortion 13 years ago, better than he had imagined.

    In an interview on Way Up with host Angela Yee, the rapper born Michael Owusu Addo for the first time, made comments with regards to his track “Try Me” – a song that countered the abortion story version shared by Yvonne Nelson in her memoir “I am not Yvonne Nelson.”

    Yvonne Nelson in her memoir said Sarkodie supported the abortion of the baby but on “Try Me”, Sarkodie stated that he informed Yvonne to keep the baby although he was not ready to be a father. The track further accused Yvonne of having several affairs with men in the music industry – an action some deemed as “slut shaming.”

    For many, their concern hovered around how Sarkodie’s wife, Tracy Sarkcess felt during this brouhaha.

    But according to Sarkodie, Tracy was “cool” and all she cared about was how her husband was faring as he was on tour.

    Sarkodie admitted that her reaction was not what he had expected.

    “She handled it the way I didn’t think she would be able to handle it. She was cool about it. She cared more about how I was feeling. She was like if I was good cos I was on tour.

    That was her worry, about how I was feeling,” he said.

    Following the release of “Try Me”, Yvonne Nelson accused Sarkodie of disrespecting womanhood and reiterated her claims that the rapper had a hand in the abortion.

    Sarkodie has however not come to respond to the actress’ statements. According to the rapper, this is because he works with the notion that “nobody is worth my response.”

    “To be very honest, the reason I don’t speak which might sound a certain type of way, but I feel like nobody is worth my response. Which has always been my stance,” he said.

    He, however, clarified he will only respond to a conversation should he benefit from it.

    “It should be somebody I’m gonna benefit from. Even if I don’t want to respond, I will respond cos I’ll benefit out of it.”

    He added: “But most times, the people that speak about Sarkodie, if I look at them from top to bottom, it isn’t really worth it for me to go back and forth with this person.”

    Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Chieftaincy conflict: One killed, 7 injured in attack on Kumasi-Bawku bound bus

    Chieftaincy conflict: One killed, 7 injured in attack on Kumasi-Bawku bound bus

    The Police have launched a manhunt for a group of individuals who opened fire on a Kumasi-Bawku bound bus on the outskirts of Walewale.

    The attack during the early hours of Friday, July 21, resulted in the death of one person and leaving seven others injured.

    Authorities suspect that the attack is linked to the ongoing chieftaincy-related conflict in the North East Region.

    In February 2023, at least four persons were killed in a chieftaincy dispute at Wenchike, a farming community in the Chereponi District of the North East Region.

    Another five including an officer of the Ghana Armed Forces were injured with many houses set ablaze.

    In response to the recent violent act, the Police say they are conducting an intelligence operation to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice.

    “The Police is on a manhunt for a group of people who shot into a Kumasi-Bawku bound bus at the outskirt of Walewale this dawn killing one person and injuring seven others.”

    “The attack is believed to be in connection with the ongoing chieftaincy-related conflict within the enclave.”

    “An intelligence operation is currently ongoing to get the perpetrators arrested.”

  • Zelensky fires Ukrainian ambassador to UK after criticism

    Zelensky fires Ukrainian ambassador to UK after criticism

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Vadym Prystaiko from his position as the country’s ambassador to the UK.

    Reports suggest that the dismissal came after Prystaiko publicly criticized President Zelensky’s handling of a dispute over expressing gratitude for British military aid.

    Prystaiko had referred to Zelensky‘s commitment to thanking the UK defense minister daily as “unhealthy sarcasm.”

    Despite no official reason being given by Kyiv for the dismissal, it has been confirmed that Prystaiko is no longer serving as the ambassador.

    Earlier this month, British Defense Minister Ben Wallace cautioned Ukraine, stating that its allies were not a retail platform like Amazon.

    He emphasized the importance of Kyiv showing appreciation for the weapons it receives, as this could influence Western politicians to provide further assistance. Wallace’s comments came after President Zelensky criticized the military alliance, NATO, for the delays in granting Ukraine membership.

    “How else can we show our gratitude? We can wake up in the morning and thank the minister. Let him write to me and tell me how to thank him,” Mr Zelensky said of the defence minister’s comments.

    Mr Prystaiko told Sky News there was a “little bit of sarcasm” in his president’s response, which he believed was “unhealthy”.

    “We’re not expecting anybody to fight for us, we only ask for equipment,” he said, adding “Ben can call me and tell me anything he wants”.

  • Trafford joins Burnley from Man City

    Trafford joins Burnley from Man City

    Burnley Football Club has finalized the signing of goalkeeper James Trafford on a four-year contract.

    The 20-year-old joins Turf Moor from Manchester City for an undisclosed fee, following a successful loan spell at League One club Bolton during the previous season.

    Trafford’s exceptional performances recently earned him recognition on the international stage. His heroics in the European Under-21 Championship were crucial in helping England secure victory in the final. Notably, he made a diving save during stoppage time to deny Abel Ruiz’s penalty, ensuring a 1-0 win against Spain and clinching the championship title.

    He told the Burnley website: “I feel very happy to officially be a Burnley player. 

    “I was excited for it to all get done while the Euros was going on, I knew a lot about it and I was waiting to get back to make it all official.

    “I want to improve and learn as much as I can here and as a team. 

    https://media-cdn.incrowdsports.com/d774ab26-d375-4a9a-b8c9-9fb097423f49.jpg?crop=4180%3A2351%3Anowe%3A324%3A775

    “I just want to take it a day at a time and try and achieve as much as we can going forward.”

    Burnley finished top of the Championship last season with 101 points to earn promotion back to the Premier League and manager Vincent Kompany is looking forward to seeing what Trafford can do. 

    He said: “We’ve signed an extremely talented young man. More than just a talent, he’s a great character. 

    https://media-cdn.incrowdsports.com/a1c59b5b-b150-4141-aeb3-0916b6050bfb.jpg?crop=6000%3A3375%3Anowe%3A0%3A54

    “James is a very impressive, confident and mature young man. Most people have seen what he’s achieved in his career so far and his level of talent.

    “We’re looking forward to developing that even further, making him even better. 

    “He’s done so much already and what excites us is how far he can go.”

  • Tupac murder: Police take hard drives and laptops from alleged gang member’s house

    Tupac murder: Police take hard drives and laptops from alleged gang member’s house

    Las Vegas police conducted a search for evidence in the unsolved 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur, focusing on the residence of Duane Keith Davis, aged 60, who was purportedly present in the car carrying the gunman at the time of the shooting.

    Referred to as “Keefy D” or “Keffe D,” Mr. Davis has denied any involvement in the murder but has mentioned being present at the scene. So far, no arrests have been made in connection with the case.

    During the search on Monday, authorities seized hard drives, tablets, and laptops from Mr. Davis’s home in Henderson, a Las Vegas suburb located within 20 miles (32km) of the Las Vegas strip where Tupac Shakur was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting.

    Previously, Mr. Davis had been under investigation by police in both Los Angeles and Las Vegas, but he was cleared of any involvement after denying his role in the crime. He is reportedly associated with the South Side Compton Crips street gang.

    Per reports from BBC, the police were in search of “notes, writings, ledgers, and other handwritten or typed documents concerning television shows, documentaries, YouTube episodes, book manuscripts, and movies concerning the murder of Tupac Shakur”.

    Several hard drives, tablets, and laptops were among the items seized during the police search. Additionally, a copy of Vibe magazine featuring Tupac and the book Compton Street Legends, which Mr. Davis co-authored, were also taken.

    The warrant specified that the police were looking for items that could indicate evidence of motive and/or the identity of the perpetrator, such as photographs, undeveloped film, insurance policies, letters, address and telephone records, diaries, and other documents, whether written, typed, or stored on computer discs.

    In a 2018 Netflix documentary and his 2019 book, Mr. Davis revealed that he was inside the car with the gunman who killed Tupac Shakur. In 2009, he spoke to Los Angeles police about the murder of rapper Notorious B.I.G. and provided details about Shakur’s murder under a non-prosecution deal, according to a retired officer.

    During the police interview, Mr. Davis implicated his nephew, Orlando Anderson, as the one who fired the fatal shots at Shakur. Anderson had been involved in a fight with Shakur on the night of the murder and was later killed in a separate crime.

    A former LAPD detective who conducted the interview has advocated for Mr. Davis’s arrest, stating in 2019 that there is enough evidence to apprehend him, as he has been “boasting about it, and making money off of it and taunting law enforcement.”

    Tupac Shakur, whose stage name was stylized as 2Pac, achieved success with hits like California Love, All Eyez on Me, Changes, and I Ain’t Mad at Cha.

    He died on 13 September 1996, a week after being shot four times in his car while waiting at a red light. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2017, having sold more than 75 million records worldwide.

  • More than GHC20m cash stolen from Sanitation Minister’s home

    More than GHC20m cash stolen from Sanitation Minister’s home

    Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, are said to have been robbed by two of their house helps in their home in Abelemkpe, Accra, between July and October 2022.

    18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei are currently facing charges before an Accra Circuit Court for their alleged involvement in a series of thefts

    The accusations against them include one count of conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of stealing, involving substantial amounts of US$1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghana Cedis, as reported by The Chronicle.

    The alleged thefts also extended to personal belongings of Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, such as clothes valued at GH¢95,000, handbags, perfumes, and jewelry worth US$95,000.

    Patience, acting alone, has been accused of stealing six pieces of Kente cloth worth GH¢90,000 and six sets of men’s suits valued at US$3,000, which belonged to Daniel Osei Kuffour.

    Additionally, three other individuals have been implicated in connection with the investigation. Benjamin, a 29-year-old plumber, has been charged with dishonestly receiving GH¢180,000. Kweku Botwe, a 65-year-old trader, is facing charges for dishonestly receiving GH¢50,000. Malik Dauda, a 23-year-old unemployed individual, is alleged to have dishonestly received GH¢1 million.

    All five accused individuals appeared before an Accra Circuit Court, presided over by Judge Susana Ekuful, on Thursday, July 20, 2023. Sarah was granted bail in the amount of GH¢1 million, and two sureties were required to deposit their Ghana cards with the court’s registrar. It is important to note that these bail conditions are subject to review since Judge Susana Ekuful was serving as a relief judge at the time.

    During the briefing, Judge Susana Ekuful mentioned that Patience, along with her alleged boyfriends and father, has been remanded into lawful custody. However, Sarah was granted bail due to her status as a breastfeeding mother.

    The alleged thefts came to light in June of the current year when the complainants, Daniel Osei Kuffour and Cecilia Abena Dapaah, reported the incidents to the police upon discovering missing cash and personal belongings.

    Patience was caught in the act, having entered the couple’s room using a duplicate key. She was apprehended by Mr. Kuffour upon his return home, after noticing that the room was unlocked and hearing unusual noises.

    Subsequent investigations led to the recovery of the stolen items and money in the possession of Patience and her associates. It is alleged that they used the stolen funds to finance various properties and purchases, including renting a 3-bedroom apartment and a store in Tamale, buying vehicles, and funding other personal expenses.

    The case has been adjourned to August 2, 2023, to allow for further investigations.

  • BOST MD wants BOST margin increased to 12 pesewas

    BOST MD wants BOST margin increased to 12 pesewas

    Managing Director of the Bulk Oil, Storage, and Transportation Company (BOST), Edwin Alfred Provencal, is advocating for an increment in the BOST margin.

    BOST Margin is a tax imposed on petroleum products used to cover the maintenance and operating cost of petroleum product depots and undertaking expansion programs at depots.

    According to the BOST MD, the current rate of nine pesewas is insufficient to meet the maintenance and expansion needs, especially considering the depreciation of the cedis in recent times. To address this concern, he proposes an increase of four pesewas, bringing the total to 12 pesewas.

    The MD emphasized that raising the BOST margin is crucial to enable the company to sustain its depots in economically challenging regions of Ghana. Despite being commercially unviable, these depots are vital to keep the economy active.

    “When I joined BOST, all our economic assets by economic assets I mean revenue earning assets almost all of them were out of operation. It was only 17% that were operational when I joined BOST. As we speak today because of the increment in the BOST margin we’ve been able to bring back to life all those non-operational assets.

    “One of them is the pipeline from Buipe to Bolga, another one was the barges on the Akosombo dam – all the four barges were not operational. Another one was the pipeline from Tema to Akosombo, it was out of service. We had three depots that were not operational. We were virtually down and that was the case I made,” he said.

    According to Edwin Provencal, without the support of the BOST margin, the company will be forced to join private companies set up depots in areas that are commercially viable to rake up profits.

    “The BOST margin it is for maintenance of the infrastructure and then expansion when need be. So when you take that BOST margin out then the signal to the company is that the next infrastructure you build make sure you build it at places where it can pay for itself because if you go and build it somewhere where there’s no demand obviously you’re not going to make your money back. So that infrastructure is what is powering the economic life of this country. And taking the BOST margin away will be suicidal,” he said.

    He added that to unsure the expansion and operationalisation of BOST, the margin must be increased.

    “What we need to do is that with this brilliant initiative by the government today, Gold for Oil, what we need to do is that as we drive the prices down, we find a way to put in place to increase the BOST margin a little so that we can start expanding the

    About BOST

    BOST was incorporated in December 1993 as a private limited liability company under the Companies Act,1963 (Act 179) with the Government of Ghana as the sole shareholder.

    Its duties are to among other things to develop a network of storage tanks, pipelines and other bulk transportation infrastructure throughout the country, rent or lease out part of the storage facilities to enable it generate income as well as keep strategic reserve stocks for Ghana.

    It currently has six petroleum demand strategic zones and manages depots located in Accra Plains, Kumasi, Buipe, Bolgatanga, Akosombo and Mami Water with total capacity 425,600 m3.

  • House helps of Cecilia Dapaah arrested for stealing Minister’s over $1.3m, jewelry worth $95,000

    Two house helps of Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, are currently facing charges before an Accra Circuit Court for their alleged involvement in a series of thefts that occurred at the minister’s home in Abelemkpe, Accra, between July and October 2022.

    The accused are 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei.

    Patience and Sarah are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of stealing, which include amounts of US$1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghana Cedis per a report from The Chronicle.

    The accused are said to have also stolen personal belongings of Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, including clothes valued at GH¢95,000, handbags, perfumes, and jewelry worth US$95,000.

    Patience has been accused of going solo in stealing six pieces of Kente cloth worth GH¢90,000 and six sets of men’s suits valued at US$3,000, belonging to Daniel Osei Kuffour.

    Three other individuals have also been charged in connection with the theft being investigated.

    29-year-old plumber, Benjamin, is accused of dishonestly receiving GH¢180,000, whereas Kweku Botwe, a 65-year-old trader, has been charged for dishonestly receiving GH¢50,000.

    The third, Malik Dauda, 23, who is unemployed, is said to have dishonestly received GH¢1 million.

    All five accused appeared before an Accra Circuit Court presided over by Judge Susana Ekuful on Thursday, July 20, 2023.

    The court granted Sarah bail in the amount of GH¢1 million, and two sureties are required to deposit their Ghana cards with the court’s registrar.

    The bail conditions are however subject to review as Judge Susana Ekuful was serving as a relief judge at the time.

    During her briefing, Judge Susana Ekuful disclosed that Patience, along with her alleged boyfriends and father, has been remanded into lawful custody. However, Sarah, being a breastfeeding mother, was granted bail.

    The prosecution revealed that Patience, also known as Maabena, had previously worked as a house help for the complainants, Daniel Osei Kuffour and his wife, Cecilia Abena Dapaah. Similarly, Sarah had also served as a house help for the couple.

    The alleged thefts came to light in June of the current year when the complainants reported the incidents to the police after discovering missing cash and personal belongings.

    Patience was caught red-handed as she had used a duplicate key to open and enter the couple’s room. Mr. Kuffour apprehended her upon returning home, having noticed that the room was unlocked and hearing suspicious noises from inside.

    Subsequent investigations led to the recovery of the stolen items and money in possession of Patience and her associates.

    It is alleged that the accused used the stolen funds to finance various properties and purchases, including renting a 3-bedroom apartment and a store in Tamale, buying vehicles, and funding other personal expenses.

    The court has adjourned the case to August 2, 2023, to allow for further investigations.

  • Nigerian teachers to work 2 days a week over cost of living

    Nigerian teachers to work 2 days a week over cost of living

    College of Education Academic Staff Union, COEASU, has informed the media that its members will limit their work to only two days per week until the government takes action to tackle the surging cost of living.

    COEASU which ranks as the third largest in Nigeria, is requesting a substantial 200% salary increase to cope with rising transportation and other essential expenses.

    The union has expressed that its members have been facing unbearable conditions. To push for their demand for a salary adjustment, the union has made a decisive move.

    According to a statement released on Wednesday by COEASU National President, Smart Olugbeko, the union’s national leadership convened an extraordinary meeting on Tuesday, July 18, 2023.

    During this meeting, it was unanimously agreed that members will only be able to work for two days a week until their demand is met by the government.

    This call comes in the wake of a significant hike in petrol prices resulting from the removal of a government fuel subsidy.

    The statement read in full:”The National leadership of our great Union in its extraordinary meeting held on Tuesday, 18th July 2023 had agreed to direct its members to go to work two days weekly until Federal Government yields to its demand of 200 per cent increase in salary amidst the difficulty of members to get to work as a result of hike in the price of petrol.

    “The implementation of the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government two months ago raised the price of a litre of petrol by 250%. This worsened the inflationary rate on the cost of transportation, food and other essential commodities and impoverished the Nigerian people.

    “Workers, including staff of colleges of education, kept faith with the government and chose to endure the untold hardship thinking it would be only for a while as Government promised to roll out palliative measures including significant increase in salaries. Alas! While our capabilities to sustain hope were already exhausted, the price of petrol rose further to N650 per litre.

    “Now, the leadership of the Union has been inundated by members’ complaints that they could no longer go to work as a result of a hike in the price of petrol and the resultant high cost of transportation. Against this backdrop, it has become inevitable for the Union to direct members to go to work only two days weekly while an emergency NEC meeting shall be convened to ratify this decision and decide on the specific days of the week members are to go to work.

    “The present salary of staff of Colleges of Education was approved in the year 2010 – 13 years ago! This means we have been on same salary since 2010 while the petrol price rose intermittently from N65/N70 in 2010 to N650 in 2023 (a tenfold increase). Our salary structure which is subject to renegotiation at 3-year intervals has remained static for 13 years, skipping four due renegotiations. It is ludicrous that Government has refused to return to the negotiation table on the welfare package for staff after the Union, prior to the removal of the fuel subsidy, had proposed a 200% increase in salary as against the Government’s offer of a ridiculous 35% for the Chief Lecturers and 23% for other cadres.

    “We call on the FG to urgently do the needful because the inevitable action of the Union against this hardship will have devastating effects on the students as it will lead to a prolonged academic calendar – a semester of 16 weeks will become 32 weeks or more; while Teaching Practice exercise of 6 months will become 12 months.

    “We call on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to quickly address the issue of salary adjustment for staff of Colleges of Education. We believe in the capacity of the President to address this problem as he did when he was the Governor of Lagos State where he so generously increased the salaries of staff in the then Lagos State-owned Colleges of Education that they became the highest paid nationwide.”

  • Venues for 2023/24 GPL season revealed

    Venues for 2023/24 GPL season revealed

    Ahead of the start of the domestic top-flight campaign in September, all 18 Premier League Clubs have submitted their match venues, as well as alternative venues in compliance with the Club Licensing Regulations of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    Additionally, the training facilities of all Clubs have been confirmed.

    The much-anticipated domestic top-flight league is scheduled to kick off on Friday, September 15, 2023.

    The defending champions, Medeama, will aim to continue their success after securing the title for the first time in their history last season.

    Sadly, Kotoku Royals, King Faisal, and Tamale City were relegated to the Division ranks last season.

    However, the upcoming 2023/24 season will see three promoted clubs from the Division One League join the elite league to compete against some of the top teams.

    The newly promoted teams are Nations FC, Tano Bofoakwa, and Heart of Lions, and they are set to make their mark in the GPL after their promotion.

  • GFA, RENFAG to provide support for Annual Oldies League

    GFA, RENFAG to provide support for Annual Oldies League

    The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has joined hands in a partnership to back the Oldies League, organized by the Retired National Footballers Association of Ghana (RENFAG).

    Under this collaboration, the GFA will provide support to RENFAG, offering a trophy for the winner, plaques for the participating teams, medals, and footballs for all the teams involved in the Oldies League.

    Below is a statement from the football association confirming the partnership with RENFAG:

    The GFA Foundation has partnered the Retired National Footballers Association of Ghana (RENFAG) for their Annual RENFAG Oldies League.

    This is the climax of the competition made up of 26 teams from the Greater Accra region divided into Four Groups.

    Winners of the four groups will face each other to decide the eventual winner of the competition.

    The third-place and the Winners Cup match are scheduled for Saturday, July 29, 2023 at the La McDan Park from 1pm -6pm.

    The GFA has offered to support  RENFAG with a trophy for the winner, plaques for the participating teams, medals and balls for all the teams.

    Both matches will be streamed live on the GFA Facebook page for the sporting public to relive the glory days of our retired national stars.

  • Leroy Kwadwo begins trial training at FC Saarbrücken

    Leroy Kwadwo begins trial training at FC Saarbrücken

    Leroy Kwadwo has returned to FC Saarbrucken for another tryout, as he aims to secure a spot in the team.

    The 26-year-old centre-back spent the last two years at MSV Duisburg, featuring in 42 games for the Zebras, including 10 matches last season.

    After his contract with MSV Duisburg expired on June 30 and was not extended, Kwadwo is currently without a club. He began his football journey at SG Wattenscheid at the age of 6 and later played for Rot-Weiss Essen, Schalke 04, and Fortuna Düsseldorf before joining Würzburg in 2019.

    Throughout his career, Kwadwo has shown promise, scoring once in three games for TSG Sprockhövel in the 2014–15 Oberliga Westfalen and twice in twenty-seven games in the 2015–16 Oberliga Westfalen.

    Though he played a role in helping Kickers climb to the 2nd Bundesliga in 2020, he only made four appearances.

    Subsequently, he moved to Dresden in January 2021, where he played twelve games in the third division before joining MSV Duisburg six months later. Now, he is back at FC Saarbrucken, hoping to impress and secure a new opportunity in his football career.

  • Eric Alagidede recruited as new Nsoatreman FC General Manager

    Eric Alagidede recruited as new Nsoatreman FC General Manager

    Eric Alagidede has been appointed as the new General Manager of Nsoatreman FC, a Ghana Premier League side.

    The dedicated football administrator will commence his new role on Monday, July 24, bringing his valuable experience to contribute to the club’s operations.

    Previously, Alagidede served as the Chief Executive of Koforidua Suhyen Sporting Club, a second division team, and also as the Communication Manager of Karela United in the Ghana Premier League.

    His professionalism and dynamism in these positions impressed many, leading to his recruitment by Nsoatreman FC.

    An official unveiling ceremony for Eric Alagidede as General Manager of Nsoatreman FC is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 23.

    The ceremony will also feature the introduction of the club’s new head coach, Maxwell Konadu, to the supporters.

  • Accra Hearts of Oak welcome Kelvin Osei Asibey

    Accra Hearts of Oak welcome Kelvin Osei Asibey

    Accra Hearts of Oak has made a significant addition to their squad during the ongoing transfer window, securing the services of Kelvin Osei Asibey for an undisclosed fee.

    The club took to their official social media platforms to announce the signing, and fans are eagerly anticipating the impact of the new acquisition.

    “A new member of the Phobia family. Phobians let’s welcome Kelvin Osei Asibey.

    Phoooobia…..”

    Asibey showcased his exceptional skills as a top defender while playing for Eleven Wonders in the Access Bank Division One League.

    During the season, he made 25 appearances, impressively scoring two goals and providing seven assists. Asibey’s outstanding performances were recognized with six Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, highlighting his exceptional talent and contribution to his former team, including a notable display during the playoffs against Bofoakwa Tano.

    His reputation as one of the best defenders in the Access Bank Division One League caught the attention of Hearts of Oak, who saw him as a valuable addition to their squad.

    With aspirations to improve their performance, Hearts of Oak, who finished 12th on the league log last season, have high hopes for the upcoming 2023/24 season with Kelvin Osei Asibey on board.

  • GNPC holds Foundation Career Fair 

    GNPC holds Foundation Career Fair 

    The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Foundation has held the second edition of its Career Fair at Cape Coast University in the Central Region.

    The event attracted hundreds of participants who engaged in an informative exchange with industry professionals.

    The aim of the fair was to equip the attendees with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demands of the constantly evolving global workforce.

    Themed “Strategic Positioning for the Job Market,” the highly anticipated second edition of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Foundation Career Fair was a resounding success. The event provided a dynamic platform for students, fresh graduates, and job seekers to enhance their skills and gain knowledge about the key competencies required by employers.

    The Career Fair featured insightful presentations and expert-led discussions on topics such as Emotional Intelligence, Financial Management, and Design Thinking for Positive Change. Attendees had the opportunity to receive practical insights and guidance on how to thrive in the ever-evolving world of work.

    The event also saw active participation from various companies in recruitment drives, offering exciting prospects for potential internships and job placements.

    Participants engaged in networking sessions with industry professionals, gaining valuable insights into industry trends, skill development, and career pathways.

    In a message read on his behalf by Dr. Dominic Eduah, Executive Director of the Foundation, GNPC CEO Opoku-Ahweneeh Danquah emphasized that the Career Fair is one of the educational and human capacity development initiatives funded by the Corporation. It aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, empowering students to align themselves with the ever-changing job market’s unique expectations.

    Dr. Eduah expressed his delight with the event’s success and its positive impact on the attending students. He reiterated the GNPC Foundation’s commitment to fostering the personal and professional growth of students, and the success of the second edition of the Career Fair reflects the Foundation’s dedication to this mission. He encouraged young Ghanaians to invest their time in research and innovation as a means to secure a successful future.

    “We are thrilled to witness the exceptional outcomes from today’s session. The enthusiasm and active participation from both students and industry professionals have exceeded our expectations, and we are confident that the skills acquired here will be instrumental in shaping their future careers for the best,” he concluded.

    The Dean of Students, who also served as the Chairperson for the occasion, Prof. Eugene Marfo Darteh, expressed gratitude for the initiative and added his expectation that “The GNPC Foundation Career Fair proves a transformative experience for our students.

    “This program has provided an avenue for them to interact directly with industry experts, gaining valuable insights into the current job market’s expectations. We believe that this exposure will significantly enhance their career prospects and better prepare them to face the challenges of the professional world,” he concluded.

    Also present at the program were Prof. Moses Jojo Eghan, Provost of the College of Agricultural and Natural Sciences, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) CEO, Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, a representative of the Central Regional Minister as well as officials from a host of companies including Republic Bank, CBG, ADB, Enterprise Life and Hubtel, who lent their support to the programme.

    Relatedly, and as part of its community sports development programme, the GNPC has also completed the construction and handing over of a new FIFA standard Artificial Turf for the people of Sekyere South in the Ashanti Region.

    At a brief ceremony to handing over the facility, Lubaabat Habib-Jawulaa, Head of the Environment and Social Amenities Unit at the GNPC Foundation, said the Management of the Corporation, led by the CEO, O-A Danquah, holds a firm belief in adopting holistic approaches to contributing to the development of communities.

    “At GNPC, we recognise that sports and the development of sporting facilities in communities do not only provide young Ghanaians with an avenue to display their talents or sharpen them into becoming professionals but also help in the development of their character; moulding them into responsible, disciplined members of society,” she added.

    She further urged the District Assembly to ensure a high level of maintenance to preserve the pitch to last many years.

    The Presiding Member of Sekyere South Assembly, Mr Michael Opoku who represented the DCE, praised GNPC for its commitment to ensuring every Ghanaian, directly or indirectly, benefits from the country’s oil activities.

    He pledged the community’s readiness to use the facility for its intended purpose.

  • Charles Taylor calls for dismissal of Chris Hughton as Black Stars coach

    Charles Taylor calls for dismissal of Chris Hughton as Black Stars coach

    Former Ghanaian footballer, Charles Taylor, who previously played for Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, has called for the removal of Chris Hughton as the head coach of the Black Stars.

    Taylor expressed his concerns about Hughton’s perceived lack of tactical abilities, stating that he believes Hughton is not suitable for the position of head coach for the four-time African champions.

    Chris Hughton, who was previously the manager of Brighton and Hove Albion, took over as Ghana’s head coach in February of this year. Prior to this role, he served as the technical director during Otto Addo’s tenure at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    In an interview with Angel TV, Taylor stated, “Chris Hughton doesn’t deserve to be the Black Stars coach; his tactical abilities are very low. He can’t create competitions among the players, he always uses old players, leading to abysmal results. He needs to be sacked.”

    Since his appointment, Hughton has overseen three games during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in March and June. Out of these three fixtures, Ghana managed to secure one victory and two draws.

  • NIB allegedly arrests Bugri Naabu’s receptionist and aide over IGP leaked tape

    NIB allegedly arrests Bugri Naabu’s receptionist and aide over IGP leaked tape

    The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has allegedly arrested the personal aide to Bugri Naabu, the former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over the leaked tape hovering around the removal of Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare.

    This information per reports, was revealed by Mr. Naabu. Per reports, he discovered this information after realising their absence at the workplace upon his arrival at the office.

    Per reports, Mr Naabu did not disclose the source of his information.

    “I learnt they came with a white car and police people men well-armed pushed them in and took them away,” he is quoted by MyJoyOnline.com to have said.

    The NPP stalwart said “I don’t know their whereabouts but I am getting information that they are in BNI (now NIB), Kawukudi Junction.”

    Bugri Naabu is said to have expressed interest in visiting the NIB office along with his lawyers to ascertain the reason behind the arrest.

    “So I am appealing to you the journalists, and I am getting some lawyers also to join them to find out what is happening,” he added.

    The arrest, he believes, is linked to a leaked audio in which voices are heard conspiring against the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.

    The situation remains under investigation, and further details are yet to emerge.

  • Kamaldeen Sulemana joins Southampton teammates for pre-season training

    Kamaldeen Sulemana joins Southampton teammates for pre-season training

    Ghanaian footballer, Kamaldeen Sulemana, has rejoined his Southampton teammates for pre-season training. The young talent made the move to the English club from Stade Rennais FC in the French Ligue 1 during the January transfer window of 2022.

    Southampton signed Kamaldeen to bolster their squad and aid in their efforts to avoid relegation. However, despite his contributions, the team faced a challenging 2022/23 football season and unfortunately suffered relegation.

    Following the season’s conclusion, Kamaldeen was given the opportunity to rest and spend time with his family during the off-season. Now, he has reported back to Southampton and was seen training with the team on Thursday, July 20, as part of their pre-season preparations.

    The forward is expected to be part of the squad for Southampton’s friendly match against Norwich on Saturday, July 22.

    Although there have been reports of interest from other clubs, Kamaldeen Sulemana is open to the idea of staying at Southampton to aid the team’s quest for promotion from the English Championship.

  • Bawumia revealed as Special Guest of Honour at Ghana National College 75th Anniversary climax

    Bawumia revealed as Special Guest of Honour at Ghana National College 75th Anniversary climax

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will as part of the culminating events for the Ghana National College’s 75th Anniversary, serve as the Special Guest of Honour at the school’s Speech and Prize Day on Saturday.

    During the celebration, Dr. Bawumia will also have the honor of unveiling a new Science laboratory, which was constructed by the Nananom (old students) for the college.

    Headmaster of the Ghana National College, Mr. Joseph Ato Sarpong, confirmed Dr. Bawumia’s significant role in the final festivities during an interview with Myjoyonline on Wednesday.

    “Everything has proceeded as planned. Nothing has changed and the Vice President will be here with us on Saturday”, he said.

    School logo of the Ghana National College

    The Ghana National College, affectionately called “Osagyefo’s own school” in political circles, is commemorating its 75th Anniversary with a week of activities under the theme: ’75 years of holistic education in nurturing leaders for the 21st Century.’

    The celebration, which began on July 16, is taking place at the school’s picturesque location on the hilly outskirts of Cape Coast, the Central regional capital. The festivities will conclude on July 23.

    The events commenced with regional church services organized by regional branches of Nananom on Sunday, July 16. On Friday, July 21, various activities are scheduled, including a football gala, an AGM of all Nananom, and a flag-raising ceremony featuring the school cadet.

    Additionally, year groups will hand over several projects, such as a fishpond for the study of Science by the ’93 year group, the unveiling of a new crest at the school gate by the 2001 year group, and a plaque by the Tema branch featuring sayings of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

    The day will also witness the renovation of the L-Block at Down Town by the ’81 year group and the Vocational Block by the ’85 year group.

    The following day, Saturday, will feature the traditional Speech and Prize-giving Day in the morning on campus, followed by a fund-raising dinner dance in the evening at the Pempamsie Hotel in Cape Coast.

    The concluding day, Sunday, will include a thanksgiving and memorial service. In the evening, there will be the induction and swearing-in of Nananom national executives, followed by the popular Omotuo and Fufu bash.

    Established on July 20, 1948, by Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the Ghana National College holds a special place in history as a consequence of the agitations for Ghana’s independence from colonial rule.

    Its inaugural enrollment consisted of 17 students, led by the celebrated Mathematician and Physicist Emeritus Professor Francis Kofi Ampenyi Allotey, who holds the distinction of being the first student to register at the college.

  • Wa School for the Deaf hit by acute food shortage

    Wa School for the Deaf hit by acute food shortage

    The Wa School for the Deaf (WADEAF) is facing a severe food shortage, causing immense distress among the children enrolled there.

    The school has not received any feeding grants from the government since the start of the academic year, leaving the vulnerable students at risk of malnutrition and struggling to cope.

    Mr. Eugene Miebu, the Chairman of the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), disclosed this dire situation to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during an interview in Wa. He emphasized that the school’s management is currently finding it challenging to provide adequate meals for the children.

    WADEAF accommodates approximately 250 children, ranging from Kindergarten to Junior High School. However, throughout the entire academic year, the school has not received any government funding as a feeding grant.

    In the past months, the school managed to sustain the children by cultivating maize on campus, but that resource has been depleted. To address the food crisis, the school management has even resorted to borrowing grains from some of the teachers to prepare meals for the students, with the intention of repaying them when food supplies are available.

    The situation at WADEAF highlights the urgent need for immediate support to ensure that these vulnerable children receive adequate nutrition and are not deprived of their right to a nourished and healthy life.

    Mr Miebu said, “After borrowing the maize, getting money to buy ingredients for the soup is also a challenge.”

    “Sometimes, they (the school authority) have to go and beg some of the teachers that have gardens in the school for beans or pumpkin leaves for the cooks to prepare for them to eat,” the PTA Chairman added.

    “The government gives us the money and the suppliers will provide the food for us. But because the money has not come for more than a year now, the suppliers have also stopped.

    When the school was getting support, every Thursday, the children ate eggs and every week they ate meat, they were satisfied and able to learn but now things have changed, it is not easy for us,” he added.

    The Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of the Wa School for the Deaf (WADEAF), Mr. Eugene Miebu, highlighted that the food shortage was not limited to WADEAF alone. The Wa School for the Blind and the St. Don Bosco Special School, also located in Loho near Wa, were facing similar challenges.

    Mr. Miebu appealed to the government to prioritize special schools in the region and the entire country, recognizing the dire circumstances faced by vulnerable children. He urged benevolent individuals and organizations to step forward and provide food support to enable the special needs children to concentrate on their academic work.

    On the other hand, Madam Sophia Dimah Nandzo, the Wa Municipal Director of Education, confirmed that she was aware of the feeding challenges at WADEAF and had already requested grants from the appropriate authority. However, they were yet to receive a response.

    Additionally, Madam Nandzo revealed that she had appealed to the Wa Municipal Assembly to consider providing food support to the special schools in the municipality. Unfortunately, they had not received any response to their request yet.

    “Unfortunately, these are children that their parents are also poor. In other places philanthropists donate to these schools but it is not like that here (in Upper West).

  • Uncertainty around Ghana’s debt restructuring making foreign investors cautious – Fitch Solutions

    Fitch Solutions has indicated that foreign investors continue to approach Ghana’s debt restructuring process with uncertainty.

    The UK-based firm has highlighted concerns over the rapid depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi throughout 2022, combined with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Ghana’s external debt restructuring process under the G20 Common Framework. These factors are expected to contribute to foreign investors remaining cautious.

    In their recent evaluation of Ghana, titled “Bleak Investment Outlook Dims Ghana’s Short-Term Growth Prospects,” Fitch Solutions emphasized that sentiment towards the Ghanaian market remains weak.

    “Indeed, yields on the country’s Eurobonds traded at an elevated 34.4% (as of July 6), indicating that sentiment towards the Ghanaian market remains weak”.

    “Moreover, we project that growth in Ghana’s most salient source markets – including the EU, UK and US – will soften over 2023”, it explained.

    Fitch Solutions has explained that the cautious approach towards overseas expansions in emerging markets is due to restrictive monetary conditions and persistently high inflation levels. These factors are expected to dampen the appetite for foreign direct investment (FDI) in such markets, including Ghana.

    As a result of these dynamics, Fitch Solutions predicts that FDI inflows into Ghana will not reach pre-pandemic levels in 2023. This situation further clouds the short-term outlook for fixed investment in the country.

  • Even a ‘bad character’ like Kennedy Agyapong wants to be President, Ghana is cheap – Analyst

    Even a ‘bad character’ like Kennedy Agyapong wants to be President, Ghana is cheap – Analyst

    Political analyst Kweku Adu-Gyamfi says he is taken aback by the fact that Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong has expressed interest in becoming Ghana’s president despite his worrying track record.

    According to Mr Adu-Gyamfi, this has only become possible owing to the bad running of the economy by President Akufo-Addo.

    In an interview on Original TV on July 19, 2023, the political analyst argued that should it not have been bad reputation of the current government, certain individuals would not have dared to vie for the highest position of the land.

    He described the Assin Central MP as one of the “bad characters” in the country.

    “Akufo-Addo has made the presidency cheap and when anybody wakes up s/he wants to become president. He (Akufo-Addo) came to deceive us; to get hold of the presidency so that he would enrich himself, his family, his wife, his concubines and all that.

    “This guy (Akufo-Addo) has messed up the country, he has messed our economy. He has messed up the reputation of this country and no nobody is talking. So, governance has become so cheap that a person like Kennedy Agyapong, such a character, is also coming for us to vote for him to become president.

    “… is not for the fact that Ghana is now cheap, why should we allow somebody like Kennedy Agyapong to even mount a podium to say he wants to be president of this country. Who has Kennedy Agyapong not insulted in this country… it is the NPP that has been so cheap, China made NPP. That is why they have elements like Kennedy Agyapong wanting to be a flagbearer of such a disgraceful political party,” he said.

    All 10 flagbearer hopefuls of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been cleared to contest in the upcoming primaries slated for November 4, 2023.

    They are former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Kwadwo Poku an energy expert, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Energy Minister Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko, former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong.

    The others are Assin Central MP, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, a former Offinso North MP, former Agric Minister, Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie, a former Attorney General Joe Ghartey and Francis Addai-Nimoh, former MP for Asante Mampong.

    The General Secretary of the party, Justin Kodua Frimpong disclosed this in a press release issued on Wednesday, July 12.

  • NRSA opposes withdrawal of MTTD officers from highways in Ashanti Region

    NRSA opposes withdrawal of MTTD officers from highways in Ashanti Region

    The Ashanti Regional Director of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Alexander Atibo Ayatah, has expressed strong opposition to a directive allegedly issued by the Inspector General of Police. The directive is said to withdraw officers of the Police Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD) from highways in the Ashanti Region.

    Mr. Ayatah is particularly concerned about what he perceives as a lack of effective enforcement of traffic laws, which has resulted in minors and unlicensed drivers recklessly using the roads in the Ashanti region.

    According to him, his inquiries at the Police Service revealed that the officers were asked to step aside following numerous complaints and allegations of bribery against them.

    During an interview with Luv FM’s David Akuetteh, Mr. Ayatah highlighted his observations regarding the enforcement of traffic regulations in the region, expressing his worries about the potential consequences of the absence of MTTD officers on the highways.

    “The MTTD is supposed to enforce the laws but for some time now they haven’t been on our roads. I was in the region some time ago for monitoring and research, when I met with the police officers, they told me they have been told not to do any enforcement. 

    “The reason I am told is because the officers are taking bribes from the motorists. The best we can do for the people of this region is to allow the Police to do their work,” said Mr. Ayatah. 

    In the past year, officers from the MTTD are barely seen enforcing road traffic regulations in the Ashanti region.   

    “What they are doing now is minimal visibility because they have been given the order not to enforce the law as of now. They’re supposed to be on the highway to ensure any driver who violates the traffic law is made to face the law. But what you see them doing now is that they are trying to do something similar to enforcement,” he added. 

    “I took the report to the head office to resolve the matter. I’ve told him to rise up to bring them back. If they get the IGP to lift the ban on enforcement in the region it would help,” said Mr. Ayatah. 

    The region has witnessed a decline in road accidents, with the mid-year of 2023 recording 1,619 crashes compared to 1,791 accidents in the same period the previous year.

    However, the NRSA is expressing concern that the absence of MTTD officers on the roads could potentially lead to an escalation in road crashes in the region.

    “Comparing these allegations to the number of minors and people who are driving without licenses, we cannot allow that. If you look at the various road users and the new phenomenon of tricycles on our roads, they are causing so much trouble. We could have done better in terms of our numbers but for the fact that these tricycles have no respect for the road regulations, they will not improve. This is because teenagers are now riding. We need to sit up,” said Mr Ayatah. 

    He believes road crashes in the region could be minimised as was seen in previous years if the law enforcers are allowed to ensure sanity on the roads.

  • Call the best to ensure Ghana qualifies for 2026 World Cup – Fred Pappoe

    Call the best to ensure Ghana qualifies for 2026 World Cup – Fred Pappoe

    Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Fred Pappoe, has underscored the urgent importance of gathering our top talents as Ghana endeavors to secure qualification for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup.

    With soaring aspirations, Pappoe’s call to unite the best players during an interview on Peace FM represents a crucial moment in Ghanaian football, reigniting hopes of a triumphant campaign.

    I will say we can qualify it is not because of who we are going to play because now the game in Africa has leveled up. Sometimes we Ghanaians don’t see it like that and accept it like that. To me the best way that our chances to qualify will be brighter is to prepare well within FIFA rules.”

    “Because you won’t get time to camp for 3 weeks or 4 weeks you don’t have that chance that thing is no more. A match will coincide with when they have ended their league when the leagues are on recess like the way now the European leagues are on recess. Even that the boys will be going back to their teams so the preparation players won’t be available for you the players will also be released 4 or 5 days before a match.”

    “So what we need to do is to make sure if we are calling the 25 or 26 we will call it should be our very best that at any particular point in time they are playing actively in their various teams. Because we won’t get time for the coach to train them for a certain period of time it is just going to be our they will jelly together and other things. We just have to call our best we just have to approach it with our best,” he is quoted to have said on Footballghana.com.

    As the nation prepares for the qualifiers, all eyes are on the football fraternity’s response to this appeal.

    Ghana has been drawn in Group I alongside Mali, Madagascar, Central African Republic, Comoros, and Chad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

  • Flood victims in Volta Region receive support from Communist Party of China

    Flood victims in Volta Region receive support from Communist Party of China

    The Communist Party of China (CPC) through the Chinese Embassy has provided relief items to victims of recent flood incidents in the Volta Region.

    On June 10, 2023, rainstorm caused flooding in the Volta Region. Many resident’s homes were submerged in water. Thankfully, there were no casualties. However, some of the affected families have lost household items including food, clothing, books and school supplies.

    The donation was welcomed by the National Chairman of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ayensu Ntim, who expressed immense gratitude to the party.

    “This is a testament to the deep-rooted friendship between the NPP and the CPC, and by extension our two countries. It is a bond that grows stronger with each passing year,” he said.

    “Natural calamities like the floods that hit Ho and Keta and other areas in the region remind us to come together, setting aside our differences and extending a hand of support to one another. Today, we exemplify the spirit of cooperation and friendship between our nations,” he asserted.

    During the donation of material support to those affected by recent floods in the Volta Region, the National Chairman of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ayensu Ntim, reiterated the party’s commitment to assisting the victims. He assured them that they are not alone in their journey of recovery.

    The NPP, in collaboration with local authorities and relief organizations, pledged to ensure that prompt assistance reaches every affected individual and family. Beyond immediate relief efforts, Mr. Ntim emphasized the importance of implementing long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of future disasters.

    The NPP expressed its dedication to supporting the government in enhancing infrastructure and implementing measures to build resilience in flood-prone areas.

    The event was attended by distinguished individuals, including His Excellency Ambassador Lu Kun, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Ghana, Dr. Charles Dwamena, the National Treasurer of the NPP, and Mr. Kwame Kyeretwie-Amponsah, the External Affairs Director.

    Also present were Mr. Archibald Yao Letsa, the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. Makafui Woanya, the Volta Regional Chairman of the NPP, Mr. Divine Bosson, the Ho Municipal Chief Executive, various Constituency chairpersons, Traditional leaders, and Representatives from the media.

  • At least 46 Ghanaians contract HIV everyday

    At least 46 Ghanaians contract HIV everyday

    Forty-six Ghanaians contract the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on a daily basis, according to a report by the Ghana Aids Commission.

    Per reports, 62 new infections were recorded daily five years ago and 52 new infections recorded daily three years ago. 

    The worrying rate of HIV in Ghana was highlighted during the launch of the National HIV Self Testing Programme on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.

    Speaking at the event, the Mayor of Accra, Elizabeth Sackey, indicated that the estimated national adult HIV prevalence stands at 1.66 percent.

    Per information from the Ghana Aids Commission, a  total of 354,927 individuals are living with the virus. The total figure comprises 330,250 adults and 24,712 children.

    It is reported Greater Accra Region is a major hotspot for HIV contraction in the country and according to Madam Elizabeth Sackey, Accra Metropolis has the highest number of people living with HIV with a total of 8,112. 

    Engaging the media, Director General of the Ghana Aids Commission, Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, mentioned that HIV contraction has a positive correlation with urbanization. 

    Urbanization refers to the process by which an increasing proportion of a country’s population moves from rural areas to cities and towns, leading to the growth and expansion of urban areas.

    “The large urban centres have a higher concentration of HIV population in this country,” Dr Atuahene noted.

    Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi, he said, are among the urban centers. Their HIV prevalence is much higher than the national figure, he added.

    He therefore entreated the leadership of the country “to look at urbanization.”

    “Despite advancements in prevention, treatment and care, the high number of new infections hampers the progress we have made thus far. This situation calls for urgent action to prevent further transmission, provide treatment for those living with HIV and ensure equitable access to healthcare services,” Dr Atuahene said.

    In his submission, the Director General of the Ghana Aids Commission bemoaned the lack of financial resources to tackle HIV head on.

    According to Dr Atuahene, the Commission currently has just one-third of the money it requires to finance the HIV response.

    “The education, counseling and outreach are very essential. We don’t have the money to do all that,” he noted.

    It is the objective of the Ghana Aids Commission to end Aids by 2030 and to accomplish this, Dr Atuahene says it begins with diagnosing 95 percent of all persons living with HIV in Ghana and putting all on antiretroviral treatment, as well as achieving viral suppression for the 95 per cent of those treated.

    To support this goal, the introduction of the self-testing HIV kit is pivotal. 

    About 70,000 of the self-testing kits have been distributed across the regions targeting the youth, according to Programme Manager, National AIDS/STI Control Programme, Dr Stephen Ayisi Addo.

    The HIV self-testing kit allows the average Ghanaian to test themselves for HIV in the comfort of their confidential spaces, without the presence and direct supervision of any health worker.

    The testing delivers results within 10 minutes. The test is done either using their blood sample or saliva, better known medically as “oral mucosal transudate”.

  • International Trade Centre unveils handbook to grow coffee processing in West Africa

    International Trade Centre unveils handbook to grow coffee processing in West Africa

    The International Trade Centre (ITC) has joined hands with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Food Research Institute (CSIR-FRI) to introduce an essential resource aimed at boosting coffee production in Ghana and West Africa.

    The launch of the inaugural edition of the Handbook on coffee processing marks a significant step in supporting farmers and agro-processors in the region.

    This comprehensive handbook will serve as a manual covering various aspects, including harvesting, post-harvest management, and most importantly, the processing of coffee.

    It caters specifically to farmers and small to medium-scale processing enterprises involved in the coffee value chain, with the primary objective of ensuring high-quality standards within the industry.

    During the book unveiling event held in Accra last Thursday, Prof. Charles Tortoe, the Director of CSIR-FRI, expressed his conviction that this handbook will be a transformative game-changer for the coffee sector in both Ghana and West Africa at large.

    The collaboration between ITC and CSIR-FRI to produce this valuable resource signifies a dedicated effort to empower local coffee producers and processors, enabling them to enhance their practices and productivity.

    By providing essential guidance on coffee processing, the handbook aims to contribute to the growth and success of the coffee industry in the region.

    The primary objective of the handbook is to guarantee that the coffee processing methods meet all international quality standards.

    Additionally, the handbook aims to promote value addition in the coffee industry, positioning the country to capitalize on the vast potential of the global multi-billion dollar coffee market and earn substantial foreign exchange.

    “The purpose is to look at how best we can add value to coffee. Production of coffee comes under the domain of Cocobod, but post-harvesting where we have value-addition is also a key sector that we need to bring on board so that at the end of the day, we can have a value chain that takes production to harvest.

    That is why today, we are here to launch this manual that we have developed with the support of ITC and ACP,” Prof. Tortoe said.

    He said the quality of coffee is key to the success of the coffee industry in the country, and with the availability good quality coffee, there would be more exports that would bring foreign exchange to the country.

    “The exportation of coffee comes with quality and that is what this manual has captured,” he said.

    Guideline

    According to the National Coordinator for International Trade Centres and Alliances for Change & Value Chain Development, Larry Attipoe, there is a huge international market for quality coffee.

    He said the manual developed would be a guideline for all the industry players in order to achieve the quality needed to compete on the international market.

    “We are involved in this because we see coffee as an important value chain for our country with the opportunity to develop coffee communities. The opportunity is there. The coffee trees are in the bush but we need to bring them to the market.”

    “So, all the effort is to encourage them to produce quality and bring to the market in line with the mandate of ITC to promote competitiveness which is why we are involved,” Mr Larry Attipoe said.

  • Price tag worth $50,000 placed on defender Kofi Agbesimah

    Price tag worth $50,000 placed on defender Kofi Agbesimah

    Bechem United, a prominent team in the Ghana Premier League, has placed a price tag of $50,000 on their reliable defender, Kofi Agbesimah.

    The 26-year-old player has garnered significant attention from various clubs after impressing with his outstanding performances for the Hunters during the previous season. Since joining Bechem United in 2018 from Bectero FC, Agbesimah has consistently demonstrated his skills and prowess on the field.

    His exceptional abilities have made him a top priority for several clubs, including Nsoatreman FC and Hearts of Oak, among others.

    However, Bechem United’s Director of Operations, Francis Addae, made it clear that they will not entertain any transfer offers below the set price of $50,000 for the talented defender.

    “We have informed Hearts of Oak about the transfer fee of our player. We have set a price tag of $50,000, so if they really need him they must be able to meet our demands. He deserves such amount because he is one of the best center-backs in the country at the moment” he told Kumasi FM.

    Agbesimah has five-and-a-half months left on his current contract.

    The defender has made 125 appearances in the Ghana Premier League, scoring 6 goals and providing 1 assist.

  • 1000 jobs to created from Recycling Plant commissioned in Oti Region

    1000 jobs to created from Recycling Plant commissioned in Oti Region

    Oti Regional Minister, Mr. Joshua Gmayenaam Makubu, has inaugurated the first phase of the Oti Regional Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP) located in Yabram, Krachi East Municipality.

    The minister highlighted that the plant would create more than 1,000 job opportunities for the youth, empowering them economically through engagement in the waste value chain.

    Additionally, the plant aims to enhance environmental conditions by reducing waste impact and producing compost and recyclable materials beneficial to the agricultural sector, ultimately contributing to improved crop production.

    Mr. Makubu emphasized that the facility would also serve as a controlled waste dump, mitigating environmental pollution caused by landfills. Moreover, income generation would be facilitated through the sale of recyclable goods by aggregators and others involved in the waste management process.

    Speaking on behalf of Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Mr. Anthony Dzadzra, Director of Policy Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, expressed that the Oti IRECOP would not only handle solid waste from various municipalities in the region but also transform waste into usable products for the overall benefit of the people in Oti.

    Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing access to water and sanitation services for all during a recent address. One of the key initiatives in this regard is the coordinated program aimed at improving water and sanitation accessibility across the nation.

    To achieve this goal, the government, through the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, is actively supporting the construction of Integrated Recycling and Compost Plants (IRECOPs) in all 16 regions of the country. These IRECOPs play a crucial role in waste management, recycling, and sanitation enhancement.

    Madam Dapaah emphasized that these initiatives are part of the government’s comprehensive “water and sanitation for all” programs, which aim to bring safe water and improved sanitation services to every community in the country. These efforts are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal six, which focuses on “clean water and sanitation.” The goal seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation services for all.

    Specifically, the Dambai IRECOP facility serves as a hub for receiving, sorting, and recycling municipal solid waste. By addressing the issue of indiscriminate waste dumping, which leads to widespread pollution and health hazards, the facility plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health and the environment.

    Mr. Noah Gyimah, the Chief Investment Officer of Jospong Group of Companies, which includes Zoomlion Ghana Limited as a subsidiary, further emphasized the facility’s significance. It not only facilitates waste management and recycling but also actively contributes to mitigating the adverse effects of pollution on human health throughout the country.

    In conclusion, the government’s dedication to implementing these programs and interventions reflects its commitment to achieving sustainable water and sanitation solutions for the betterment of the entire nation.

  • Volta Development Forum readies to offer technical support to end perennial floods

    Volta Development Forum readies to offer technical support to end perennial floods

    Volta Development Forum has expressed deep concern about the devastating impact of the floods after conducting an assessment tour of areas affected by the perennial flooding in the Ho Municipality of the Volta Region on the 8th of July, 2023.

    In response, the Forum has committed to providing technical support to finding a sustainable solution to address the recurring issue of flooding in the region.

    “We are determined to work with the Ho Municipal Assembly and other stakeholders in the region to find a lasting solution to the flooding problem in the municipality,” said the VDF Executive Director, Daniel Agboka-Dzegede, at a meeting held with the Ho Municipal Chief Executive, Divine Boson.

    Mr. Dzegede hinted at collaborating with the Ho Municipal Assembly to create a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing the recurring issue of flooding. The plan includes initiatives such as constructing new drainage systems, installing pumps, and establishing a flood warning system.

    He commended the dedication of the Ho Municipal Chief Executive, Divine Bosson, who has shown remarkable commitment to development despite limited resources in the municipality.

    Furthermore, Mr. Dzegede urged the Ministry of Works and Housing to conduct an assessment of the damages caused by the recent flooding disaster in the municipality. He also called upon stakeholders to come together and work in synergy to provide the necessary support to the victims of the flooding incident.

    In addition to disaster response, Mr. Dzegede emphasized the importance of collaboration to elevate the standards of Ho, affectionately known as the “oxygen city,” and make it a favored destination for tourists.

    “Tourists are coming to the region every day and for that matter, we must make sure the region is always kept neat,” he said.

  • Over a million likely to face hunger in Burkina Faso – IRC

    Over a million likely to face hunger in Burkina Faso – IRC

    The International Rescue Committee (IRC), a Non-Governmental Organisation, has issued a warning that an additional one million people in Burkina Faso could be facing hunger in the coming months due to the ongoing insecurity in certain parts of the country.

    Presently, an estimated 2.2 million people, which is one in 10 of the population, are already experiencing hunger. However, the IRC projects that this number could escalate to 3.3 million by September.

    The persistent militant Islamist insurgency has resulted in some regions becoming almost completely isolated, with limited access to food supplies and the closure of health facilities.

    The situation in the northern town of Djibo, which accommodates over 200,000 people displaced from other areas, is particularly dire. The once-thriving food market is now nearly empty, and a significant proportion of local health clinics have been forced to close down.

    Tragically, last year, 11 soldiers lost their lives in an ambush when they were escorting a supply convoy en route to Djibo.

    The IRC has called for increased international attention to the plight of people in Burkina Faso as they struggle with food insecurity and the challenges brought about by the ongoing conflict.

    Currently, the country is under the governance of a military junta led by President Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who assumed power in October of the previous year with the commitment to reclaim territories from the militants.

  • Ethiopian govt imposes night-time curfew in Gambella region

    Ethiopian govt imposes night-time curfew in Gambella region

    Authorities in the western Ethiopian region of Gambella have imposed a night-time curfew.

    The curfew which restricts movement between 19:00 and 06:00 has been imposed in response to the recent outbreak of violence that resulted in numerous fatalities.

    While the regional government has not released specific casualty figures, it issued a statement promising to hold accountable those “members of the leadership” who were involved in the disturbance of peace.

    Local media reports indicate that the violence, which has ethnic dimensions, started earlier this week and led to clashes in at least two areas. As a result, businesses and offices in the regional capital, Gambella city, remained closed on Wednesday.

    Gambella, which shares a border with South Sudan, has experienced recurring violence in recent months. In May, there were reports of at least seven people killed and more than a dozen wounded in clashes in Gambella city.

    Additionally, last year, the city faced a raid by rebel fighters from the neighboring Oromia region, resulting in the deaths of dozens of people.

  • Akufo-Addo urges Portugal to support Ghana’s economy transformation drive

    Akufo-Addo urges Portugal to support Ghana’s economy transformation drive

    President Akufo-Addo has called on the government of Portugal to support Ghana in transitioning away from its old economy, which heavily relies on the production, export of raw materials, and foreign aid.

    Ghana aims to build a modern, value-added, and industrialized economy with a focus on modernized agriculture, establishing itself as a self-reliant player in the global economic landscape.

    During a meeting with Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa in Lisbon, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the desire for increased trade and investment cooperation between Ghana and Portugal.

    In his address, President Akufo-Addo stated that history held ample lessons that showed “that a rich trading partner, operating within a fair, trading system brings prosperity to both sides, far more than the exploitation of a poor partner.”

    “Trade relations between Ghana and Portugal have evolved through history, and it is clear that a new paradigm has to be defined.”

    “Out of this, a robust trading system between Portugal and Ghana will be created, which will generate mutual prosperity for the peoples of the two countries,” President Akufo-Addo stated.

    Those observations, he stressed, were based on the fact that “we, in Africa, agreed that we have to be self-reliant and shed the image of beggars living on charity, aid and handouts, and make better and more intelligent use of our abundant natural resources in order to pull ourselves out of poverty and attain prosperity.”

    This forum would enhance investment initiatives and foster job creation, particularly for Ghana’s youth.

    The discussions encompassed political, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges, as well as multilateral cooperation, focusing on addressing global issues and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • Star Steels Limited CEO wanted over alleged GHS100,500 fraud

    Star Steels Limited CEO wanted over alleged GHS100,500 fraud

    A bench warrant has been issued by the Accra Circuit Court for the arrest of a businessman, Mr. Kwadwo Fosu, who is accused of defrauding Star Steels Limited.

    The 45-year-old man allegedly obtained iron rods worth GH₵100,500.00 from the company, claiming that he would pay through the Agricultural Development Bank. However, he failed to do so.

    Mr. Fosu faces charges of defrauding by false pretenses, issuing a false cheque, and failing to appear before the Court for his plea to be taken.

    Police Chief Inspector Agartha Abena Asantewaa sought the bench warrant after the accused person repeatedly failed to appear before the Court despite several attempts.

    According to the facts presented to the Court, Mr. Isaac Amo represented Star Steels Limited and lived in Nsawam, while the accused person, Mr. Fosu, was the Chief Executive Officer of Fosu Gyeabour Transport and Training Enterprise, residing in Berekum.

    On October 14, 2021, the accused purchased iron rods worth GH₵220,000.00 from Star Steels Limited. He made a partial payment of GH₵119,550.00 and issued post-dated Agricultural Development Bank cheques to cover the remaining balance, but the cheques bounced when presented to the bank.

    Following this incident, the complainant sought assistance from the police, leading to an investigation.

    It was revealed that Mr. Fosu had issued post-dated cheques of GH₵100,500.00 to the complainant, intending to use them as part payment, but the specified bank accounts did not have sufficient funds.

    The case has been adjourned to August 16, 2023, and the Court has now issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Mr. Kwadwo Fosu.

  • Why American model Gigi Hadid was arrested in Cayman Islands

    Why American model Gigi Hadid was arrested in Cayman Islands

    American model Gigi Hadid was detained and fined in the Cayman Islands earlier this month for cannabis possession, as recently disclosed.

    The 28-year-old model and her friend were apprehended after their luggage was searched upon arriving on a private jet for a holiday on July 10.

    Both individuals pleaded guilty in court and promptly paid the fine, but no conviction was recorded.

    Hadid’s representative stated that the marijuana was legally acquired in New York with a valid medical license.

    “It has also been legal for medical use in Grand Cayman since 2017. Her record remains clear and she enjoyed the rest of her time on the island,” they said in a statement shared with the PA news agency.

    According to the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control, Hadid and her friend Leah McCarthy were arrested for “the importation of marijuana and importation of utensils used for the consumption of marijuana”.

    According to the agency, the quantity of the substance confiscated was small, suggesting it was for personal use. Subsequently, they were apprehended and taken to a detention center but later released on bail. A local newspaper, the Cayman Marl Road, reported these events.

    Following their detention, the two individuals made an appearance in the Cayman Islands summary court just two days after the incident. They were issued a fine of 1,000 Cayman Islands dollars ($1,200; £920).

    Surprisingly, despite the ordeal, the model seemed to continue enjoying her holiday without letting the incident dampen her spirits.

    “All’s well that ends well”, she told her Instagram followers on Tuesday, posting photos of the beachside getaway.

    Gigi Hadid stands as one of the most renowned and highest-earning models globally. With an impressive portfolio, she has collaborated with prestigious luxury brands such as Versace, Chanel, Fendi, and Marc Jacobs. Her remarkable career has also seen her grace the cover of Vogue magazine over 30 times.

    The Cayman Islands, located in the Caribbean, is a captivating British overseas territory, celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life.

  • England yet to decided “One love” armband for World Cup opener

    England yet to decided “One love” armband for World Cup opener

    As the Lionesses prepare for their World Cup opener, the England players are currently deliberating on which of FIFA’s eight approved armbands Captain Millie Bright will wear, as revealed by midfielder Jordan Nobbs.

    Earlier, there was controversy surrounding the rainbow ‘OneLove‘ armband, which led to the possibility of sanctions being imposed on countries, including England and Wales, during the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar.

    To avoid any potential issues during the upcoming women’s tournament in Australia and New Zealand, FIFA has collaborated with the United Nations to introduce officially sanctioned options.

    These armbands can be interchanged or worn throughout the month-long event, ensuring a smooth and inclusive tournament. England’s campaign commences on Saturday with their match against Haiti.

    Speaking from the Lionesses team hotel in Brisbane, Nobbs said: “We’ve had some brief conversations, but I think that will be discussed a little bit closer to the game.

    “But obviously we know our values and equality etc, so that will be finally finalised soon.”

    While FIFA’s ‘Unite’ armbands will highlight a number of social issues, amongst them inclusion, gender equality, indigenous people and peace, there is no specific armband that advocates for the LGBTQ+ community and none contain the rainbow colours commonly associated as the colours of pride.

    Despite facing criticism, England boss Sarina Wiegman expressed her belief that her players are content with the resolution.

    The squad, led by Wiegman, took to social media on Tuesday to release a joint statement, addressing their position on the ongoing discussions with the Football Association. These discussions cover various matters, including performance bonus payments and commercial structures.

    In a message from the team posted by Bright, the Lionesses said they were “disappointed that a resolution has still not been achieved” but would “pause discussions, with full intentions of revisiting them following the tournament”.

    Asked if the uncertainty ahead of England’s push for a first World Cup has been difficult, Nobbs replied: “I don’t think it’s difficult. 

    “I think we’ve had a lot of these conversations, probably over the last however many years, just not everything’s always seen by the public.

    “I think together as a team we’re pausing the conversations to obviously focus on the World Cup, but we just want to keep growing the women’s game.

    “[Compared to previous negotiations] we have a different group of players, the game’s grown so quickly. So I think conversations have been different, but I think it’s just been to try and fight in the right area of where the game is right now.

    “So I think together, between the players and the FA, we’re just trying to go on the same path and obviously have questions between each other.

    “It’s not just about money, it’s not just about care, or facilities, I think there’s so many areas we’re trying to grow. 

    “And we’re trying to obviously just do it in the way that the women’s game has grown as well. So I think it’s about us as a team believing in the next generation as well, having the best possible situation to play football.”

    Nobbs has faced a career plagued by injuries, which kept her sidelined during several major tournaments. Back in 2015, she managed to play only one match in the World Cup held in Canada before suffering a hamstring problem.

    Subsequently, a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) prevented her from participating in the 2019 World Cup in France, and a knee issue kept her out of England’s successful Euro 2022 campaign.

    However, her daring decision to switch from Arsenal to Aston Villa during the January Women’s Super League transfer window proved to be fruitful. Her impressive performances caught the attention of Wiegman, leading to her selection for the squad heading to Australia. So far, she remains fit and healthy, ready to make her mark in the tournament.

  • WASS headmistress interdicted over illegal fees collection

    WASS headmistress interdicted over illegal fees collection

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken action against Dr. Mrs. Shine Agatha Ofori, the headmistress of West Africa Senior High School (WASS), for unauthorized collection of money from students.

    In an official press release signed by Cassandra Twum Ampofo, the Head of the Public Relations Unit, the GES announced that Dr. Mrs. Shine Agatha Ofori has been interdicted from her position.

    As per the interdiction, Dr. Mrs. Shine Agatha Ofori is required to hand over the administration of the school to the Regional Director of Education. The case will be subject to further investigation by the Regional Disciplinary Committee until a final determination is reached.

    “Management of GES has interdicted Dr. Mrs. Shine Agatha Ofori, Headmistress of West Africa SHS, for unauthorised collection of money from students. She is to hand over the administration of the school to the Regional Director of Education pending final determination of the case by the Regional Disciplinary Committee,” GES added in the press release.

    Earlier in 2023, the Ghana Education Service (GES) demonstrated its commitment to addressing misconduct by heads of second-cycle institutions in the country.

    One such instance was the interdiction of Mr. Kenneth Agbomadzi, the headmaster of Fijai Senior High School in Sekondi. He faced allegations of charging illegal fees, which led to his suspension.

    However, after a thorough investigation conducted by a committee specifically tasked to probe the matter, Mr. Kenneth Agbomadzi was vindicated of any wrongdoing. As a result, he was reinstated to his position in May 2023.

  • Ghana goes into Space Science exploration after cabinet approves National Space Policy

    Ghana goes into Space Science exploration after cabinet approves National Space Policy

    Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, has disclosed that the National Space Policy has been approved by the Cabinet.

    This approval paves the way for Ghana to harness the benefits of space science in advancing national development endeavors.

    Once fully implemented, the policy will serve as a comprehensive framework for leveraging space science and technology to drive the country’s progress.

    The announcement was made during the Minister’s News briefing, organized by the Ministry of Information in Accra on Wednesday. This briefing provided an opportunity for the Minister to update the public on the Ministry’s various policies and interventions.

    Dr. Afriyie also mentioned that his Ministry will collaborate with relevant government departments and the private sector to establish the Ghana Space Agency. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the effective utilization of space-related resources for the nation’s growth and development.

    “This agency will coordinate the development of human capital, infrastructure, and the overall growth of the space science sector,” Dr Afriyie said.

    Under the Ghana-Korea K-Innovation Partnership Programme, the Minister revealed that his ministry has formulated a comprehensive 10-year masterplan to boost the commercialization of research and innovation in the country.

    Additionally, the Minister reaffirmed his ministry’s dedication to global disarmament initiatives. In collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), they are actively reviewing the Biological and Toxin Weapons Bill to implement the 1972 Convention on the Prohibition of Bacteriological and Toxin Weapons.

  • McDan, Kofi Amoabeng, others to speak at WIWIK 2023

    McDan, Kofi Amoabeng, others to speak at WIWIK 2023

    The 9th edition of the ‘What I Wish I Knew’ (WIWIK) Conference is set to take place on Friday, July 21, 2023, at the R.S. Amegashie Auditorium in the University of Ghana Business School, Accra.

    The conference will feature notable speakers, including Daniel Mckorley, CEO of McDan Group of Companies, and Capt Rtd. Prince Kofi Amoabeng, President of UT Holdings.

    Under the theme “Thriving in Uncertainty: A conversation on intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship,” the conference aims to equip participants with practical techniques to navigate their intrapreneurship or entrepreneurship journey amidst challenging times. As an annual event, WIWIK has grown into one of the largest personal development conferences on university campuses.

    The conference primarily targets final year undergraduate students, seeking to educate, advise, and inspire them. Esteemed panelists for this edition include John Dumelo, a Farmer and Politician, 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, and Doris Ahiati, CEO of Crescendo Consult.

    Prince Kofi Amoabeng

    In addition to panel discussions, there will be a fireside chat featuring Daniel Mckorley, moderated by Kafui Dey, during which they will share insights from their entrepreneurial journeys in line with the conference theme.

    Dr. Bernard Tawiah, the convener, highlighted that this year’s focus is on cultivating an intrapreneurial mindset among soon-to-be graduates, emphasizing curiosity, a passion for learning, and a willingness to take risks and innovate.

    The conference will also showcase accomplished and emerging entrepreneurs, sharing their personal journeys and strategies for scaling businesses amidst uncertainties. Attendees will receive actionable recommendations on launching their business ideas.

    The keynote address will be delivered by Hannah Ashiokai Akrong, the Human Resources Director. Moreover, the conference offers networking opportunities and encourages self-reflection.

    The WIWIK Conference is organized by the WIWIK Foundation, a non-profit organization, in collaboration with the University of Ghana Business School, the Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG), and Crescendo Consult.

  • Ghana’s economic recovery to be fully observed by 2025 – World Bank

    Ghana’s economic recovery to be fully observed by 2025 – World Bank

    The latest Economic Update by the World Bank indicates that Ghana’s economy is expected to fully recover its potential by the year 2025.

    However, the report, titled “Price Surge: Unraveling Inflation’s Toll on Poverty and Food Security,” highlights the country’s current challenging economic outlook.

    Economic growth is projected to slow down significantly, reaching 1.5% in 2023 and remaining depressed at 2.8% in 2024.

    Despite these challenging conditions, the Ghanaian economy is anticipated to rebound and return to its potential growth rate by 2025.

    The report furthered that “A combination of domestic imbalances and external shocks in 2022, led to macroeconomic challenges in Ghana. The year was marked by currency depreciation, rising inflation, and tumbling investor confidence. Pre-existing fiscal vulnerabilities such as mounting debt burden, a rigid budget weakened by high energy sector costs and chronically low public revenues, were deepened by difficult global economic conditions”. 

    “As a result of efforts to address macroeconomic instability, corrective fiscal and monetary policies are expected to influence total demand and slow down non-extractive GDP growth”, said Pierre Laporte, World Bank Country Directorfor Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

    “High inflation, increased interest rates, and macroeconomic uncertainties will keep private consumption and investment growth below pre-pandemic levels, leading to subdued non-extractive growth in the short term; but growth will begin to recover to its potential by 2025 as drag from fiscal consolidation fades and macroeconomic stabilization and structural reforms start bearing fruit.”

    The report advised that in addition to addressing the immediate macroeconomic crisis, the authorities should prioritize structural reforms to tackle its underlying causes, enhance economic growth, and strengthen economic resilience:

    The report recommended Ghana to focus on sustainable domestic revenue collection, with particular emphasis on streamlining tax incentive regimes and enhancing revenue administration.

    Tighter expenditure controls were suggested as a means to improve budget execution accuracy and prevent the accumulation of new arrears.

    The government was urged to fully address the energy sector’s shortcomings, which pose a threat to fiscal sustainability. To achieve this, the report called for the extension, expansion, and thorough implementation of the Energy Sector Recovery Programme.

    The report emphasized the need for the government to increase Foreign Direct Investments by improving the investment climate. This can be achieved through enhancing transparency, accessibility, and the quality of business regulation and regulatory governance.

    Regarding climate change adaptability, the report suggested that the government should prioritize investments based on recommendations from the World Bank’s recent Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR). These investments should aim to maximize resilience benefits while remaining cost-effective.

    “Macroeconomic shocks, particularly inflation tend to affect the poor the most. The next two years will be very tricky for Ghana’s poverty reduction efforts. Without bringing the economy back on track, no meaningful poverty reduction can happen. Concurrently, safety nets to protect the most vulnerable need to be enhanced to ensure sustainable poverty reduction and shared prosperity.” said Kwabena Gyan Kwakye, World Bank Economist and co-author of the report.

    “Expanding and increasing transfers of the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) could ensure the poorest are able to cope and build resilience to future shocks”, he added.

    The report also indicated that high inflation in 2022 has had significant effects on food security and poverty in Ghana and has eroded the purchasing power of Ghanaian households, leading to a deterioration in living standards and ultimately, worsening poverty and food insecurity.

  • Van de Beek hailed for Man Utd’s winner in emotional return

    Van de Beek hailed for Man Utd’s winner in emotional return

    Donny van de Beek experienced a joyous “big moment” as the Manchester United midfielder made a successful comeback from a lengthy knee injury, scoring the decisive goal in a 1-0 pre-season triumph against Lyon at Murrayfield.

    Van de Beek had been sidelined since January 3 when he sustained a knee problem during Manchester United’s victory against Bournemouth.

    Since joining Old Trafford from Ajax in the summer of 2020, where he worked under United boss Erik ten Hag, the Netherlands international has faced challenges in establishing himself at the club.

    Consequently, there have been speculations linking him with a potential departure from the Red Devils during the current summer transfer window.

    “It was great. My first game after six months. I don’t have to tell you after such an injury, such a mentally difficult period for me and my family, to be back on the pitch was great and it is nice if you score a goal,” Van de Beek told MUTV.

    “It is amazing because I have been looking forward to this moment for months. I know it is just a friendly game but for me it is a big moment.”

    Manchester United had a strong start in the match, creating three significant chances within the opening five minutes. Antony’s attempt was denied by Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes, followed by Amad Diallo dragging a shot wide and having another saved by Lopes.

    During the second half, Donny van de Beek was one of the 11 changes made by the team at halftime. Just four minutes into the half, he scored a splendid goal, connecting with a chipped cross from the right by youngster Dan Gore and volleying the ball into the top corner with precision.

    Notably, Jonny Evans, a 35-year-old academy graduate who previously enjoyed success at Manchester United with three Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph before departing in 2015, played in the second half.

    He has returned to the club on a short-term deal and will join the squad on their pre-season tour of the USA.

    “He came to train with us, to work on his fitness and not all the players are in — internationals are out, still having their break — so I thought it was a good idea to help each other out,” Ten Hag said. “Jonny can work on his fitness and he can help us out.

    “The level, we know he is a really experienced player but also a very good person, a big personality and I think he has big authority as well. He will help the young players especially. It is a benefit for both sides.”

    After the match, Ten Hag added: “You can see he is a fine character, he is a leader. He understands football. He really contributed to the good performance of the team in the second half.”

  • Our activities in Africa to continue – Wagner Group chief says

    Our activities in Africa to continue – Wagner Group chief says

    Founder of Russia’s private military company Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, stated in an interview with Afrique Media TV that his mercenaries intend to maintain their operations in African countries where they are currently deployed.

    We continue to work in all the countries where we started or are now doing this work of co-operation and development,” he said in an interview published on the pro-Kremlin TV’s Facebook page.

    “If the assistance of the Wagner Group is needed anywhere to combat gangs and terrorists and to protect the interests of the people of these countries, we are ready to begin immediately to fulfil this task after agreeing on the conditions.”

    He added that “there was no, and there will be no reduction in our programmes in Africa”.

    After rumors surfaced regarding the potential withdrawal of Wagner mercenaries from Mali and the Central African Republic, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military company, addressed the speculation. His statements came in the aftermath of a brief mutiny he staged in Russia on 24 June.

    It is worth noting that rights groups have accused Wagner mercenaries of committing human rights abuses in both Mali and the Central African Republic.

  • Auckland witnesses deadly shooting ahead of Women’s World Cup

    Auckland witnesses deadly shooting ahead of Women’s World Cup

    In the heart of Auckland, New Zealand, a shooting incident tragically claimed the lives of two individuals just hours before the scheduled opening of the Fifa Women’s World Cup.

    Additionally, six others, including police officers, were injured in the incident, which took place at 07:22 local time on a construction site in the city’s central business district.

    New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins assured the public that the attack was not considered an act of terrorism. Despite the unfortunate event, he confirmed that the Women’s World Cup would proceed as planned.

    While the motive behind the attack has not been established as political or ideological, authorities have neutralized the threat, and the public can rest assured that there is no ongoing risk.

    Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown emphasized that the shooting was unrelated to the Women’s World Cup in any way.

    The gunman, identified as 24-year-old Matu Tangi Matua Reid, was armed with a pump-action shotgun and caused panic as he rampaged through the construction site.

    He was known to the police and had a history of family violence and mental health issues. Despite being under a home detention order, he had an exemption to work at the site, although he did not possess a firearm license.

    Prime Minister Hipkins expressed gratitude towards the courageous men and women of the New Zealand police who risked their lives and confronted the gunfire to protect others from harm.

    “These kinds of situations move fast and the actions of those who risk their lives to save others are nothing short of heroic”.

    All Fifa personnel and football teams are safe and have been accounted for. Earlier, he had warned people to stay home and avoid travelling into the city, Mr Brown said.

    “I can’t remember anything like this ever happening in our beautiful city. This morning’s events have been tragic and distressing for all Aucklanders, as this is not something that we are used to,” Mr Brown wrote on Twitter.

    Fifa expressed its “deepest condolences” to the victims’ families and said it was in communication with New Zealand authorities.

    “The participating teams in close proximity to this incident are being supported in relation to any impact that may have taken place,” it said.

    The opening match between New Zealand and Norway in the city’s Eden Park got under way at 19:00 local time (07:00 GMT).

    Sport Minister Grant Robertson announced the deployment of additional police in the area to provide reassurance after a shooting incident.

    The Women’s World Cup, which is the ninth edition, is jointly hosted by New Zealand and Australia.

    Police received reports of a person discharging a firearm inside a construction site, leading to the gunman moving through the building while continuing to fire shots.

    The situation escalated when the perpetrator entered a lift shaft, and authorities attempted to engage with him. During the confrontation, the man fired further shots before he was eventually found dead a short time later.

    In response to the shooting, a significant armed police presence was evident in the central business district, which is in proximity to the waterfront and fan park.

    Tatjana Haenni, the chief sporting director for the National Women’s Soccer League USA, was staying close to the shooting location.

    She recounted waking up to the sounds of police cars arriving and being advised to remain indoors. Haenni expressed feeling safe despite the unsettling incident.

  • Netflix’s subscriber surges over password crackdown

    Netflix experienced a surge in new sign-ups during the summer after taking decisive actions to tackle password sharing issues.

    As a result, the streaming giant’s subscriber base reached an impressive 238 million by the end of June, with an additional 5.9 million members joining since March.

    This unexpected growth came as part of the company’s endeavors to reinvigorate its expansion, following an unusual decline in subscribers during the previous spring.

    Nevertheless, Netflix is currently confronted with challenges arising from ongoing strikes by writers and actors in the United States. Despite these obstacles, the company has managed to attract a remarkable number of new subscribers, surpassing initial expectations.

    Netflix said it would spend less on content this year than expected as a result of the walkout – the industry’s biggest in six decades, while boss Ted Sarandos said “we need to get this strike to a conclusion”.

    “This strike is not an outcome that we wanted,” he said. He said the company was committed to reaching an “equitable” agreement that helped the industry move into the future.

    But he added: “We’ve got a lot of work to do.”

    Amidst intensifying competition and increasing household expenses, Netflix has encountered a significant growth slowdown since the onset of the pandemic. This challenging situation has been exacerbated by what analysts perceive as saturation in some of its largest markets.

    During the first half of the previous year, the company experienced a decline of approximately 1 million accounts. Although it managed to recover from those losses and regain its momentum, the sudden downturn served as a wake-up call for Netflix.

    Consequently, the company has been diligently working to strengthen its growth prospects and remain competitive in the ever-evolving streaming industry.

    Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia

    IMAGE SOURCE, NETFLIX. Image caption: The latest season of the Witcher has been popular with Netflix viewers in July.

    Netflix attributed the recent customer enticement to the introduction of new cost-effective options, which offer alternatives to the standard subscription.

    In May, the company launched its “paid sharing” program in key markets such as the UK and US, where users are charged an additional fee if they choose to share passwords with individuals outside their households. This program offers a discounted rate, being slightly below half the price of a regular £10.99 subscription in the UK. Additionally, this initiative has now been extended to more than 100 countries.

    Furthermore, in a bid to cater to a wider audience, Netflix introduced a budget-friendly streaming plan with advertisements last year. Moreover, the company implemented price reductions in numerous countries during February.

    Overall, these strategic moves have played a pivotal role in attracting new customers and retaining existing ones, while also enhancing the company’s market presence globally.

    Netflix said few people had cancelled as a result of the password changes and it believed the programme would fuel similar subscriber gains in the months ahead.

    It has estimated that more than 100 million households share passwords in breach of its official rules.

    “While we’re still in the early stages, we’re seeing healthy conversion of borrower households,” the company said in a quarterly update to investors. “Now that we’ve launched paid sharing broadly we have increased confidence in our financial outlook.”

    Paolo Pescatore, analyst at PP Foresight, said the subscriber gains were robust and a “strong endorsement” of Netflix’s strategy.

    But he called the password crackdown a short-term measure, saying the company would need to fine-tune its pricing in the months ahead.

    “The company is still in a far stronger position compared to rivals and remains the benchmark,” he said, noting that Netflix’s streaming plan with advertising is much cheaper than many current offerings from rivals.

    Analysts said the company’s big library and the scale of its international production may help it in the months ahead, as Hollywood wrestles with the impact of the strikes.

    These have already disrupted production schedules for a number of films and series.

    “Of everyone in the entertainment industry, Netflix appears to be the best positioned,” said Brandon Katz, entertainment industry strategist at Parrot Analytics, which tracks streaming demand, noting that the company still leads its peers, despite strong competition.

    Despite the increase in subscribers, Netflix’s reported revenue of $8.18 billion (£6.32 billion) was deemed disappointing by investors, as it only rose by 2.7% compared to the previous year. The company’s profits reached $1.49 billion.

    Netflix clarified that it had deliberately limited price hikes in recent months, resulting in a slowdown in revenue growth. While gains from its password crackdown and new advertising initiatives were not substantial enough to offset this slowdown, the company anticipates a change in the situation by the end of this year due to an expected increase in advertising revenue.

    To drive price-conscious customers towards the ad-funded version, Netflix has taken measures such as discontinuing its least expensive commercial-free plan in the US, UK, and Canada.

    By incorporating these strategies, Netflix aims to optimize its revenue streams and address the challenges posed by limited price increases and the changing landscape of streaming entertainment.

    Membership of its ads plan “nearly doubled” from March – though from a “small base”, the company said.

    “Netflix needs to squeeze as much juice as it can from different avenues, given a recent lack of price increases could suggest that inflation is starting to bite Netflix’s ability to crank up its subscription price, as households look to trim their spending,” said Sophie Lund-Yates, lead equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown.

    “Initial progress seems positive, but we are realms away from knowing for sure if this venture is the cash cow it’s been sold as.”

    Shares, which have surged 60% this year amid investor enthusiasm for the company’s plans, dipped in after-hours trade.

    Ms Lund-Yates said the company had delivered a “sturdy” performance and the fall reflected the high expectations for the company.

  • Medeama represents Ghana in Capital City Cup in Washington

    Medeama represents Ghana in Capital City Cup in Washington

    Medeama SC, the reigning champions of the Ghana Premier League, have been invited to participate in the prestigious Capital City Cup in Washington DC, United States of America.

    The invitation was extended by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to represent Ghana in the tournament, which is scheduled to be held on October 14, 2023.

    Medeama SC, in an official letter dated July 14, 2023, expressed their appreciation to the GFA for the formal invitation to participate in the Capital City Cup.

    The team graciously accepted the offer and is eagerly looking forward to competing against other esteemed football clubs from around the world.

    The Yellow and Mauves will have the opportunity to face off against DC United FC, a prominent Major League Soccer (MLS) team based in Washington.

    The match is expected to be a captivating clash between two talented teams from different continents.

    This exciting opportunity for Medeama SC is a result of a partnership between the Ghana Tourism Authority, the Ghana FA, and DC United FC, who collaborated to establish the Capital City Africa Cup.