A collaborative effort between the GNAT-Canada Teachers Federation and the FCE, has provided approximately 200 teachers from the Western and Western North Regions the opportunity to complete an in-service training programme.
The aim of the training was to enhance their abilities to deliver more effectively within the classroom setting.
During the training, the teachers received instruction in various subject areas, including class management, gender and culture, technology education, and inclusiveness.
The program coordinator, Mr. Ernest Asamoah, highlighted the longstanding partnership between GNAT-Canada, spanning an impressive 63 years of successful engagement and knowledge exchange.
He urged all teachers to utilize the acquired knowledge and share it with their colleagues, thereby contributing to the enhancement of quality education in their schools.
Furthermore, Mr. Asamoah emphasized that the training would provide the participating teachers with two additional points in their yearly assessment program, underscoring the importance of continuous professional development.
The Team Lead for Canada, Ms. Julia Degirolamo, recognized the significance of international projects as valuable tools for exchanging ideas and furthering global education objectives.
She, therefore, entreated the participants to use the new skills acquired to innovate change in the classroom…” leadership roles must well be seen from now”.
Mrs Sally Nelly Coleman, the Metro Director of Education praised GNAT for such projects and programmes which equipped the teacher to live up to his or her best.
She noted how the GNAT had contributed to her professional development and growth and encouraged the teachers to effectively take part in all its activities to improve their course.
Founder of Perez Chapel International Archbishop Charles Agyinasare has emphasized the importance for Christians to refrain from idolatry.
During a Sunday Service sermon, he firmly stated that it is contradictory for someone to claim to be a Christian while simultaneously engaging in idol worship.
He preached on the topic: “Powers from the Other Side,” which constituted part of his July monthly-themed sermon: “Who rules the Cosmic World”.
Archbishop Charles Agyinasare shed light on the concept of idolatry or idol worship, describing it as the act of venerating objects believed to possess spiritual powers. He cautioned Christians against succumbing to societal and familial pressures that may lead them into ungodly practices.
The Archbishop emphasized that believers should not be deceived or swayed by false spiritual experiences that may lure them into idol worship.
Additionally, he highlighted the danger of falling into idolatry as a result of perceived disappointment and impatience.
“Some Christians often feel God has disappointed them or God’s judgment is not swift so, they tend to try somewhere else for swift intervention,” he said.
The Archbishop admonished Christians against putting on amulets and talisman perceived to have spiritual powers.
He said those ornaments were a point of contact for the “devil” to harass them and their families.
Midfielder Sergio Busquets, 35, has officially joined Inter Miami following his departure from Barcelona.
Having dedicated his entire playing career to the Nou Camp, Busquets left Barcelona at the conclusion of the season. His signing reunites him with former teammate Lionel Messi, whose move to Miami was confirmed just 24 hours earlier.
Miami said in a statement: “Inter Miami CF announced (on Sunday) that it has signed legendary Spanish midfielder Sergio Busquets to a contract running through the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season.
“The one-time World Cup champion, nine-time LaLiga winner and former FC Barcelona captain, considered to be one of the greatest midfielders of all time, will occupy a Designated Player slot and is expected to join the team in the coming days.”
Busquets was a member of Spain’s team which won the World Cup in 2010 and the European Championships in 2012. In over 15 seasons with Barca made 721 appearances in all competitions, placing him third on the club’s all-time list.
He said: “This is a special and exciting opportunity that I’m very excited to take. I’m looking forward to this next step in my career with Inter Miami.
“I was impressed by the club when I came with Barcelona last year and now I’m happy and ready to represent the club myself. I can’t wait to help bring the success that this ambitious club strives for.”
A devastating fire has ravaged a disadvantaged neighborhood in Durban, a port city in South Africa.
The Kennedy Road informal settlement was engulfed in flames early on Sunday morning, resulting in the destruction of numerous homes.
Tragically, one person has been confirmed dead, and there are concerns that additional casualties may be discovered.
Distressing video footage depicts the charred remnants of makeshift shelters, constructed using corrugated iron sheets, amid the smoldering debris. Desperate residents can be seen salvaging what remains of their possessions.
At present, the cause of the fire remains unknown. However, eyewitnesses suggest that it may have originated from an argument between two individuals who were reportedly intoxicated.
This incident has brought immense suffering to the affected community. The South African Red Cross, recognizing the magnitude of the disaster, estimates that approximately 1,000 shacks have been destroyed, leaving around 3,000 people homeless.
Siyabonga Hlatshwayo, a spokesperson for the South African Red Cross, has described the situation as a catastrophe.
The organization has been working tirelessly to provide essential aid to those affected, including the distribution of hot meals, mattresses, and blankets.
Hlatshwayo has issued an appeal to the public for additional donations to support their efforts in assisting the displaced residents during this challenging time.
Benjamin Mendy, a former footballer for Manchester City, has been acquitted of charges of rape and attempted rape.
The allegations against the French international involved the rape of a 24-year-old woman in a bedroom at his luxurious mansion in Cheshire in October 2020. Additionally, he was charged with the attempted rape of a 29-year-old woman at his home two years prior to that.
After denying both charges, Mendy was found not guilty by a jury consisting of six men and six women at Chester Crown Court. Throughout the trial, he maintained that the encounters had been consensual.
The footballer was in “absolute tears” after hearing the verdict, “coming out of the court hugging his friends who were here to support him,” Sky News correspondent Inzamam Rashid said outside court.
“It was a short deliberation by the jury. They were sent out at 10:40am this morning.”
A statement released by his solicitors said that Mendy would like to “thank the members of the jury for focusing on the evidence in this trial rather than on rumour and innuendo that have followed this case.”
They said Mendy has remained strong for almost three years since the police began investigating allegations made against him, but the process has “inevitably had a serious impact on him”.
Earlier this year, the footballer faced a retrial after being unable to reach verdicts on two sexual offence charges against him.
During the retrial, prosecutors presented evidence that Mendy would host parties and social gatherings at his residence, The Spinney, while he was under contract with Manchester City.
The court heard a testimony from a British student who claimed to have met Mendy at a nightclub in Barcelona in 2017. She developed a close relationship with one of Mendy’s friends and subsequently arranged a visit to the footballer’s home the following year.
Following a night out, she alleged that Mendy attempted to rape her.
But the footballer told the jury: “I asked her if we are OK to have sex. She told me, ‘No’ because of my friend.
“I was like, ‘It’s fine, my friend says it’s OK, so if you want, he’s OK with that’. It’s when she started to be like that – upset, sad. I just left the room.”
Two years later, another incident occurred when a woman was out with her friends at a bar close to Mendy’s residence. They received an invitation to visit the footballer’s house.
According to her allegation, Mendy took her phone away and guided her to a locked bedroom. He reportedly threw the phone onto the bed, and as she moved to retrieve it, Mendy is accused of raping her.
During the trial, Mendy informed the jury that the encounter between them was consensual, and they subsequently exchanged contact information on Snapchat.
He was asked whether he had held her down or forced her on to the bed. He said: “No.”
He told the jury: “I will never force to have sex with a woman.”
Mendy became the world’s most expensive defender when City paid £52m to Monaco for him in 2017.
He won three Premier League titles with City and was part of France’s World Cup-winning squad in 2018.
He was released by the club when his contract expired at the end of June.
Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, has initiated several legal procedures, including a new action at the Supreme Court, in an attempt to pause his criminal trial involving alleged perjury and forgery.
He is requesting additional documents from state prosecutors to fully comprehend the charges against him and is also seeking to suspend his day-to-day trial.
In response, the Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has accused the legislator of orchestrating a scheme to prevent the court from hearing the case at any cost.
Mr Quayson’s lead counsel, Tsatsu Tsikata, informed the court on Friday about these new legal actions, emphasizing that they have the potential to impact the ongoing criminal trial.
“We have filed an application for a stay of proceedings that has been set for Wednesday the 19th of July at the Court of Appeal. We have also filed in the Supreme Court , a motion invoking the supervisory jurisdiction for an order directed at this court to quash the decision made on the 16th of July and another to prohibit the court from proceeding with the case,” Lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata is quoted to have said by MyJoyOnline.com.
According to reports, the application filed at the Court of Appeal is connected to the High Court’s decision to conduct the criminal trial on a day-to-day basis.
On the other hand, the application at the Supreme Court pertains to the legislator’s request for access to certain evidence that he believes the Attorney General has not disclosed.
The Attorney General has urged the court to proceed with the case, emphasizing that neither the Supreme Court nor the Court of Appeal has issued any order to halt the trial.
“Respectfully, the prayer before you is without any basis. And I am not surprised he has not referred you to any rule of law. It is an attempt to deny the court the right to hear the case.It is an attempt to prevent the continuation of the trial and I pray the court to disregard the request,“ he stated.
The Court of Appeal has adjourned proceedings to July 18 to deliver its ruling.
An official statement issued on Thursday by Senegalese authorities reveals that the rallies planned by Ousmane Sonko’s party for Saturday and Sunday have been prohibited.
The rally scheduled for July 15 was intended to serve as the official nomination of Mr. Sonko as the candidate for his party, Pastef, in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. However, due to a recent conviction, the opponent is no longer eligible to run.
“There are indications that these gatherings constitute real risks of disturbing public order” , justified the governor of Dakar, Al Hassan Sall.
“Calls through social networks invite supporters of this political formation (Pastef) to already invest in the major markets and the main axes and places of gatherings,” said the press release.
According to the governor, there were incidents of individuals attacking public and private property, businesses, and other facilities during a call for a demonstration by Mr. Sonko in early June.
Supporters of Mr. Sonko have stated that their candidate’s inauguration will take place on Saturday at the Amadou Barry stadium in Guédiawaye, located in the suburbs of Dakar, rather than on a public road.
Mr. Sonko, President Macky Sall’s strongest opponent, who will celebrate his 49th birthday on Saturday, was sentenced to two years in prison in a corruption case a month ago. He claims to have been confined to his home in Dakar since May 28, alleging that he was “kidnapped” by security forces.
The sentencing resulted in the most severe unrest in Senegal in years, occurring in early June, which led to 16 deaths according to the authorities, and approximately thirty deaths according to the opposition.
The leader of the opposition party, Pastef, warned of “indescribable chaos” if he is prevented from running as a candidate in the upcoming presidential election.
President Macky Sall, who was elected in 2012 and re-elected in 2019, announced at the beginning of July that he would not seek a third term.
A pre-burial service has been organised for Ghanaian police officer, Callistus Amoah, who was killed in his line of work in a bullion van robbery incident at Ablekuma.
The service was held today, July 14 at the St. George Catholic Church in Tesano, Accra.
During the ceremony, the slain officer was posthumously promoted from General Lance Corporal to General Corporal.
The announcement of his promotion was received with profound reverence, serving as a testament to his unwavering commitment and selflessness.
Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akufo Dampare, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Callistus Amoah and expressed sympathy to the organizations with which he was affiliated throughout his service.
Dr. Dampare further assured the public that every possible measure would be taken to apprehend and ensure that the perpetrators of this abhorrent act face the full force of the law.
“On behalf of my colleagues and the leadership of the Police, I extend my condolences to Amanda, the parents of my brother and the institutions that when my brother was alive was involved in. Since the incident happened, I have been in an unmeasurable pain which I have not been able to quantify and define until I came here today,” he said.
“Calis is a colleague to all of us at the top but to me, he is a brother because the village he comes from is close to a village I have adopted because of the benevolence of an old lady towards me,” the IGP added.
The widow, Amanda Amoah, also paid tribute to her husband, describing him as a generous person.
Meanwhile, the funeral rites will take place on July 15, at his family house. A short burial mass will be held on that very day at Kologu, Navrongo, in the Upper East Region.
Amoah Callistus was shot dead by unknown assailants at Ablekuma Star Oil filling station in Accra on Thursday, June 22, 2023.
Meanwhile, two of the four men who orchestrated the attack have been arrested and arraigned. Benjamin Ojogbe and Rashid Abdul were charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder on July 3 by the Kansehie District Court.
The Police are however on a manhunt for the remaining perpetrators.
Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the Ministry of Energy, Mr. Kwasi Obeng Fosu, has taken a significant step in his political aspirations by obtaining nomination forms to contest for the Adentan parliamentary seat in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) primaries.
His nomination forms were collected by a group of his supporters on his behalf on Tuesday, July 11, 2023.
The event garnered substantial attention from the residents of the Adentan constituency, who flocked to Mr. Kwasi Obeng Fosu’s campaign office. Known affectionately as “Baba Tauffic the Homeboy”, he received the nomination forms in a ceremony witnessed by a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters.
They were led by a former Electoral Area Coordinator for Amrahia-Malejor, Mrs. Baaba Maison, and the current Coordinator for New Adentan East Electoral Area, Mr. Kelly Steve Oppong Nyinah who picked the form from the constituency party office earlier on Tuesday afternoon when the NPP opened its nominations for the upcoming primaries.
The procession to Mr. Obeng Fosu’s campaign office in the constituency, was marked with singing and dancing in what could be described as a carnival atmosphere.
Present at the presentation were several Constituency Executives, Electoral Area Coordinators, Members of the Council of Elders, Members of the Council of Patrons, Polling Station Executives and party faithfuls in general, who came to lend their support.
Presenting the forms, Mrs. Maison said she was delighted that such a hardworking and very popular grassroots politician in Adentan has offered himself to lead the party to reclaim it lost seat in 2024.
She recalled that Obeng-Fosu as the constituency Youth Organiser led the youth wing to secure its first ever twin victory for the party in 2016 together with his colleague constituency executives at the time, when the then candidate Yaw Buaben Asamoa won the seat and President Akufo-Addo won the presidential race in the constituency.
“My success as Electoral Area Coordinator would not have been possible without the support, hard work and loyalty of our Homeboy Baba Tauffic when he was the Constituency Youth Organizer. Today, he has risen to become the youngest Member of the Council of Patrons and it is time to reward his hard work by rallying behind him for victory,” she urged, to a thunderous applause.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Obeng-Fosu said he was both overwhelmed and surprised by the love shown by his fellow patriots that thronged his office for the presentation.
“I sincerely thank you all for your massive grassroot support. Today, I assure you that the confidence you have reposed in me will not be taken for granted.”
“With your support and prayers, and through Christ who strengthens us all, I believe that victory shall be ours in 2024”, he declared to loud cheers from the excited crowd.
Dedicating his forms to God and to the party’s footsoldiers, he urged all party members to continue supporting him, the party and government through thick and thin so that together the NPP will break the eight with a seat from Adentan and a commanding majority in Parliament.
The National Democratic Congress’ Mohammed Adamu Ramadan currently represents the people of Adentan Constituency.
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has voiced its apprehension on Thursday regarding the kidnappings, detentions, and forced disappearances of individuals, including a former minister and public figures.
The mission cautioned against the emergence of a climate characterized by fear and heightened tension.
The UN is “deeply concerned by the continuing abductions, arbitrary arrests and disappearances of citizens and public figures by various security bodies in Libya“, according to a statement released on Thursday.
Former Minister of Finance, Faraj Abderrahmane Boumtari, in 2018 in the national unity government, “was arrested on Wednesday on arrival at Mitiga airport (Tripoli) and taken to an unknown location”, Manul said.
Unconfirmed reports from local media suggest that Faraj Abderrahmane Boumtari, a former minister, was apprehended by agents of the Internal Security Agency (OSI). Meanwhile, members of Boumtari’s tribe, the Zouaya, have issued threats to block oil terminals in the eastern region of the country unless he is released.
Additionally, unverified reports circulating on social media indicate that protesters have already blocked two oil fields in the south, namely al-Charara and al-Fil, which together contribute to a significant portion of Libya’s oil production. However, these reports have not been verified by AFP.
On Thursday, “five members of the High Council of State (HCE) were banned from traveling to the same airport”, Manul announced, citing “information”.
Mitiga airport in Libya is jointly operated by both the authorities and security organizations, granting them the authority to restrict the movement of travelers entering or exiting the airport.
In response to the recent abductions, detentions, and enforced disappearances of individuals, including a former minister, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (Manul) has urged the Libyan authorities and security entities to release all arbitrarily detained individuals and ensure independent investigations into these incidents.
Manul has expressed concern that these escalating tensions are creating an atmosphere of fear and exacerbating inter-community and inter-tribal divisions. This environment is deemed unfavorable for conducting transparent and inclusive elections or achieving national reconciliation.
Since the downfall of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in 2011, Libya, which possesses Africa’s richest oil reserves, has been engulfed in chaos. Divisions between the eastern and western parts of the country have further contributed to the unstable situation.
The country is currently grappling with a power struggle between two competing governments: one based in Tripoli (recognized by the UN) under the leadership of Abdelhamid Dbeibah, and another in the east supported by the influential Marshal Khalifa Haftar.
The Ministry in a statement released on Friday, categorically stated that these reports are false and should not be given any credence.
Public Relations Officer of the Ministry, Kwasi Kwarteng, clarified that there are no current plans or intentions to discontinue these allowances.
The Ministry of Education says it acknowledges the significance of the trainee allowances and firmly denies any statements attributed to the sector minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, regarding the termination of these allowances.
“The statement attributed to the Minister for Education, Hon. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum regarding the cancellation of allowances for teachers and nursing students is categorically false and unfounded. The Ministry of Education denies any such claims or intentions to terminate these allowances.
“We understand the importance of supporting and prioritizing the training of teachers, and the government remains committed to providing necessary financial assistance in these areas.”
The Ministry has therefore urged the public to rely on accurate and verified information from official sources such as the Ministry of Education, government press releases, and trusted news outlets for updates on matters concerning education and healthcare.
A 36-year-old Susu Operator accused of misappropriating GH₵ 995,338 belonging to his employers has made an appearance before the Adentan Circuit Court.
Gabriel Tsianie Tetteh is facing charges of forgery of other documents, stealing, and defrauding by false pretense.
Tetteh has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and presiding Judge Mrs. Sedinam Awo Balokah has granted him bail in the amount of GH₵ 1.5 million with four sureties, two of whom must be justified.
According to the prosecution, led by Police Chief Inspector Maxwell Lanyo, the complainant, whose identity has been withheld, is a businessman residing in Ogbojo. The complainant is also the owner and director of multiple companies, including Universal Susu, Universal Ice, Front Street Properties, and Universal Rock Builders.
In March 2021, the complainant hired Tetteh as the marketing manager for his company, Front Street Properties, which specializes in the land business.
The prosecution stated that Tetteh’s responsibilities included advertising and issuing receipts to customers who purchased and made payments for parcels of land.
The prosecution stated that the accused individual carried out his duties diligently and was subsequently promoted to the position of General Manager at Universal Rock Builders Company, one of the complainant’s owned companies specializing in house construction for clients.
Prosecution further explained that Tetteh also assumed the role of Public Relations Officer for the group of companies.
The complainant had instructed Tetteh to transfer all the receipt booklets he possessed to the new Marketing Manager and Manageress of Front Street Properties.
Prosecution said Tetteh handed over as directed but kept “two serial receipts booklets and also printed four un- serial receipt booklets bearing the Front Street properties names and issuing same to prospective customers who had made payments to the accused person.”
It said Tetteh gave his personal account to some of the customers instead of the company account and they made various payment into it.
The prosecution said during the month of August 2022, the accused person resigned from the company and handed over some receipt booklets which he had kept and was still issuing to customers who had not finished paying for their land.
It said the accused person continued to keep the money he had collected from those customers.
On December 31, 2022, the complainant asked all his staff to bring their receipts in their possession to him and asked them not to receive any money from customers until he directed them to do so.
It said when the complainant went through the receipt books, he saw that two receipt booklets did not have serial numbers like the others.
Prosecution said the complainant found out that the receipt booklets without serial numbers were issued by the accused person.
It said indentures issued to some of the customers had been forged by way of signing instead of thumb printing them.
According to the prosecutor, the complainant caused the arrest of the accused person and two serial and un serial receipt booklets were retrieved from him.
When an audit was conducted, it came to light that Tetteh has embezzled GH₵ 995, 338.97.
Prosecution said when the accused person was cautioned by the Police, he admitted the offence and stated that it was the complainant who asked him to thumb print some of the documents and the receipt booklets and issue them to customers although he had resigned from the company.
Inaki Williams, Ghanaian international and forward for Athletic Bilbao, has been omitted from the team’s pre-season squad for the upcoming tour in Mexico due to his incomplete fitness.
Williams has been dealing with an injury and is focused on making a full recovery before the start of the new season.
In June, he withdrew from the Black Stars squad for the AFCON qualifiers after disclosing that he had been playing through pain during the latter part of the previous season.
Despite joining the pre-season preparations last week, the 29-year-old has been left out of manager Ernesto Valverde’s squad for the tour in Mexico.
Athletic Club has made the decision to allow Williams more time to recuperate fully, even though he has shown signs of improvement.
In contrast, Williams’ younger brother, Nico Williams, and the other twenty-three players have joined manager Ernesto Velverde for the trip to Mexico.
During the tour, Athletic Club will participate in two friendly matches against Chivas and Necaxa before returning to Spain for the start of the 2023/24 season.
The Holy Synod, the highest governing body of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, is making efforts to prevent a potential split within the community among followers in the northern state of Tigray.
The conflict arises from the church’s response to the two-year civil war, primarily fought in Tigray, which concluded in November of the previous year. The war resulted in the loss of numerous lives and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis.
Criticism has been directed at the church by bishops, priests, and believers in Tigray for its failure to condemn the war.
In March, the bishops of Tigray expressed their intention to separate from the Holy Synod and have announced plans to ordain 10 new bishops in the region on Sunday.
The Holy Synod has called on both the federal and regional governments to intervene and halt this process, citing a violation of the church’s constitution.
This request was made in a statement released following a two-day emergency session of the Holy Synod held on Thursday. The statement criticized the Tigray bishops and scholars for disregarding the established organizational structure and bypassing peaceful dialogue.
As part of reconciliation efforts, a delegation of bishops, led by Patriarch Abune Matthias, recently visited the Tigrayan capital, Mekelle, to engage in discussions with regional government leaders and church representatives. However, the meeting with the regional church leaders did not take place.
The situation remains tense as the Holy Synod attempts to address the concerns and prevent a potential split within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Tigray.
Raphael Agbele, a 42-year-old driver, and Daniel Sakyi, a 26-year-old student, have been remanded into police custody by the Jasikan Circuit Court on charges of trafficking 410 parcels of suspected Indian hemp.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty during the court hearing.
The case has been adjourned until July 25, 2023, for the suspects to appear again. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Seth Vincent Kpodo, who served as the prosecutor, informed the court presided over by Mr. Alfred Kwabena Asiedu that the complainant was an Assemblyman.
According to ASP Kpodo, on May 24, 2023, Agbele was operating a Benz bus container with registration number GT 8496-N, traveling from Hohoe to Dormabin. Sakyi was also onboard the same vehicle, serving as the driver’s assistant.
At the Asukawkaw Bridge, the vehicle veered off the road and was involved in an accident, as reported by ASP Kpodo.
ASP Kpodo explained that upon learning of the accident, the complainant hurried to the scene and discovered that there were sacks stored in a concealed compartment within the damaged Benz bus. Some of these sacks had also scattered on the road, prompting the Assemblyman to collect them to prevent theft.
Afterward, the Assemblyman promptly reported the incident to the police. Law enforcement officers quickly arrived at the scene and retrieved 12 sacks and ten parcels of Indian hemp that had been recovered from the accident vehicle.
The police then proceeded to the Asukawkaw Clinic, where they apprehended the suspects after receiving medical treatment following the accident.
During their investigation, the suspects denied any involvement in illegal activities in their statements to the police.
They claimed that one Selasie Zigah from Hohoe, whom they identified as the owner of the vehicle, had instructed them to load charcoal in Dormabin without their knowledge of the contents.
Efforts are currently underway to locate and apprehend Selasie Zigah, who has gone into hiding, in order to conduct further investigations into the matter.
President Bola Tinubu has announced a state of emergency on food security in response to the persistent issue of food inflation in Nigeria.
The government has developed immediate, medium, and long-term interventions to tackle food shortages.
These measures include providing fertilizers and grains to farmers and households, as well as assigning responsibility for food and water to the National Security Council.
To support the agricultural sector, funds from the removal of fuel subsidies will be allocated, and a National Commodity Board will be established to regulate and stabilize food prices.
President Tinubu emphasized that the primary objectives of these initiatives are to reduce food costs, promote agricultural development, and generate employment opportunities.
In a post on his Twitter handle, President Tinubu said that the “new initiatives will tackle rising food costs, enhance agriculture, and boost job creation”.
“No-one will be left behind in our efforts to ensure affordable, plentiful food for every Nigerian,” he tweeted.
6. Creation of a National Commodity Board to review food prices and maintain a strategic food reserve.
7. Engagement of security architecture to protect farms and farmers.
8. Role of the Central Bank in funding the agricultural value chain.
A former governor from northern Nigeria recently voiced concerns about the country potentially facing a food crisis as a result of the ongoing banditry in the region.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also issued a warning about the potential rise in food prices and associated risks due to factors such as floods and the high cost of fertilizers.
These developments highlight the growing apprehension regarding Nigeria’s food security and the need for concerted efforts to address the challenges posed by insecurity, natural disasters, and the affordability of agricultural inputs.
The University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC) has commenced its fifth-anniversary celebrations by urging corporate entities in Ghana to provide support for the establishment of its inaugural state-of-the-art in-patient Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) and clinical trials laboratories.
Chief Executive Officer of UGMC, Dr. Darius Osei, emphasized the significance of this project, noting that its successful implementation would enable the safe conduct of trials in Ghana according to international standards.
The establishment of a modern CTU would contribute to Ghana’s progress by ensuring that medications administered to the population for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer are tailored to their specific needs.
The initiative to establish a state-of-the-art in-patient Clinical Trials Unit reflects UGMC’s commitment to advancing healthcare and research capabilities, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of the Ghanaian population.
He said there was no doubt that UGMC had successfully positioned itself at the forefront of healthcare excellence in Ghana and beyond, adding that, “A key pillar of this mandate is to perform research to bring new treatments and medical devices that will enhance the health of Ghanaians and the world at large”.
“The UGMC has embraced this challenge by creating the Medical and Scientific Research Centre (MSRC), which seeks to perform the necessary clinical trials and other research to bring new treatments–local and foreign to Ghanaians.
“To achieve this goal, there is an urgent need for a state-of-the-art in-patient Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) and clinical trials laboratories where the trials will be performed safely to international standards,” he said.
Dr. Osei emphasized that the UGMC is leveraging its fifth-anniversary celebrations as an opportunity to raise funds for the establishment of the first-ever Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) in West Africa. This ambitious initiative reflects the institution’s commitment to pioneering advancements in medical research and healthcare within the region.
Over the past five years, the UGMC has made remarkable progress in establishing itself as a leading institution renowned for its provision of world-class patient care, training programs, and research activities.
Dr. Osei highlighted several notable achievements during this period, including the successful resolution of ownership matters between the Government of Ghana and the University of Ghana, the signing of a Commercial Agreement to activate Phase II of the project, and significant infrastructure development, such as the acquisition of an MRI machine and Angiogram equipment.
By continuing to expand its capabilities and infrastructure, the UGMC aims to enhance its capacity to provide advanced medical care, foster cutting-edge research, and contribute to the advancement of healthcare in Ghana and beyond.
Dr. Osei also highlighted additional investments made by the UGMC, including the construction of eight-unit apartments for clinical staff, a biohazard waste treatment building, and a waste dumpster shed. Furthermore, the purchase of advanced equipment for the Medical Training Simulation Center and other specialized units has significantly enhanced the institution’s capabilities.
The UGMC has steadily grown its workforce from 130 employees in 2018 to its current staff strength of 1,300. It has expanded its specialist clinics from three to an impressive 40, and successfully conducted various complex surgeries, including open-heart and brain surgeries, catheterizations for both adults and children, and laparoscopic surgeries, among others.
Dr. Osei emphasized that through its focus on infrastructure development, specialized training programs, cutting-edge research initiatives, strategic partnerships, and community engagement, the UGMC has transformed into a preeminent academic medical center in Ghana.
He called upon individuals and corporate organizations to support this important initiative, enabling the UGMC to continue its significant contributions to quality healthcare in Ghana and Africa as a whole.
Professor George Kyei, the Director of Medical and Scientific Research at UGMC, emphasized the significance of establishing the Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) at UGMC. Once operational, the CTU would enable Ghana to conduct scientific trials on herbal medicine and provide cancer patients undergoing treatment the opportunity to participate in trials and related laboratory tests within the country. This is particularly crucial as many cancer treatments are now personalized based on the patient’s genetic profile.
Currently, Ghana and several other African countries do not have access to such personalized treatments, highlighting the importance of establishing a hospital-based CTU at UGMC. By doing so, the country can bridge this significant gap and simultaneously train the next generation of Ghanaian clinical trial professionals.
Prof. Kyei stressed the urgent need to train more personnel, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and trial coordinators, in order to meet the growing demand for clinical trials in the country. The establishment of a modern CTU at UGMC would facilitate this training process.
He further revealed that a significant portion of the clinical building had been allocated for the development of a modern trials laboratory. Additionally, a partnership has been established with MDS-Lancet-Cerba to support the acquisition of modern analyzers, which requires a substantial investment. Currently, approximately 1.5 million cedis has been raised to prepare the facility for the installation of these analyzers.
“We now need to immediately prepare the allocated space to international (ISO) standards where machines can be placed as well as equip some rooms in the trials ward with modern machines and call for the support of everyone to make the initiative a success,” he added.
The event saw institutions such as Tobinco Pharmaceutical Company, Special Ice, East Legon Executives Club, and individuals pledging and making cash donations towards the establishment of the CTU.
Environment Minister Soipan Tuya has accused individuals of unlawfully encroaching upon forests and engaging in activities such as charcoal burning, which violate Kenya‘s laws.
This development was observed since the announcement of the lifting of a logging ban earlier this month.
Environment Minister Soipan Tuya said “the lifting of the ban only applies to commercial forests” and involves less than 8% of the tree cover in the country.
“We have Kenyans who think the forests are free for them to go and erect structures and engage in illegal activities as well as lease out forest land,” Ms Tuya added.
According to reports, President William Ruto lifted the ban on logging imposed since 2018, in order to create jobs and open up sectors of the economy that depend on forest products.
The move came as the government pushes on with its plan to plant 15 billion trees over 10 years to increase the country’s tree cover.
In the current transfer window, Bechem United, a Ghana Premier League club, has made the decision not to transfer their players to other domestic clubs.
Several players from the team, including Seth Kwadwo Baah, Hafiz Konkoni, Francis, Emmanuel Avornyo, and others, have attracted attention from both local and international clubs due to their impressive performances in the previous season.
Nonetheless, the newly appointed coach of Bechem United, Bismark Kobi Mensah, has revealed that the club will only consider selling their players if foreign offers are presented.
“I have been told that the club is not ready to accept any offer for any of their players unless it comes from a foreign club. Thus I will most likely have the core of the team to build on,” Kobi Mensah told Onua Sports.
“I am also fortunate to have inherited the good players Kassim Mingle worked with,” he added.
Before joining the Hunters, Kobi Mensah managed Great Olympics in arguably the most difficult job of his career where he met an unsettled team which were battling relegation.
He managed to lead the two-time Ghana Premier League champions to a 14th place finish narrowly escaping demotion.
Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, has revealed that the country has witnessed 615 cases of rabies infections among individuals, resulting in 72 fatalities, from 2020 to 2023.
Dr Asiedu-Bekoe disclosed this at the launch of a National Rabies Prevention Campaign by the Vertinary Services Division of the GHS and its partners.
“The data from the DHMIS on suspected cases of rabies has shown an increase from 119 with 24 deaths in 2020 to 140 with 12 deaths in 2021, 203 with 26 deaths in 2022 and so far, 153 with 10 deaths in 2023.”
“Dog bite, which is a good proxy for rabies has also seen a similar trend with 15,296 cases in 2020, 16,364 cases in 2021, 16,644 cases in 2022 and 6,701 cases so far in 2023,” he said.
Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe highlighted the concerning increase in rabies cases from 2020, with the majority of infections recorded in the Greater Accra, Ashanti, Eastern, and Upper East regions of Ghana.
He further noted that a significant proportion of rabies-related deaths occurred in children under the age of 15.
Ghana has responded to the global initiative of eliminating dog-mediated human rabies by 2030. To support this goal, the country has implemented a National Rabies Control and Prevention Action Plan for the period of 2018-2030. This plan serves as a roadmap for achieving the target.
However, Dr. Asiedu-Bekoe revealed that the country’s progress in implementing the action plan has been hindered by various challenges.
These include recurrent outbreaks of public health diseases, inadequate sustainable funding for public health, low vaccination coverage of dogs, and the presence of stray dogs.
Despite these challenges, Ghana has made notable progress in enhancing risk communication activities, raising awareness among healthcare workers, and adopting a stepwise approach towards rabies elimination. This approach helps identify gaps and develop strategies to address them.
On his part, Registrar of the Veterinary Council of Ghana, Dr. Kingsley Mickey Aryee, stated that the vaccination coverage of dogs in the country is alarmingly low, with only 8.5 percent of dogs being vaccinated nationwide.
He emphasized the urgent need for increased awareness campaigns and sensitization to encourage dog owners, particularly those with stray dogs, to annually vaccinate their pets. This proactive approach is essential to curbing the spread of rabies and ultimately eradicating the disease in Ghana.
Dr. Aryee highlighted that rabies is a significant cause of preventable deaths worldwide, with a majority of fatalities occurring in developing nations.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is commonly transmitted through bites or scratches from infected dogs. However, other animals like cats, bats, and foxes can also transmit the disease, particularly in areas where it is not endemic.
The symptoms of rabies can vary and may include fever, headache, excessive salivation, hydrophobia (fear of water), muscle spasms, paralysis, mental confusion, and ultimately, death. The onset of symptoms can vary depending on the location of the bite.
Efforts to raise awareness about the importance of dog vaccination and the prevention of rabies are crucial in safeguarding public health and reducing the incidence of this deadly disease.
Ethiopia and Egypt have reached an agreement to restart negotiations concerning the controversial hydroelectric mega-dam being constructed by Addis Ababa on the Blue Nile river.
The nearing completion of the dam has caused diplomatic tensions between the two countries, with Egypt expressing concerns about potential impacts on its vital water supplies, while Ethiopia sees it as a crucial component of its plan to provide electricity to millions of households.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi met in Cairo, where they agreed to engage in talks specifically regarding the filling of the dam’s reservoir.
They also aimed to finalize their agreements within four months, as stated in a joint statement from the Ethiopian prime minister’s office.
The dam’s reservoir has been gradually filled during the past three rainy seasons while the dam wall was being constructed. Egypt and Sudan, as downstream countries, objected to this action since it occurred without a binding agreement among all three nations.
The decision to resume talks has received commendation from the African Union. Construction of the dam began in 2011 and was initially projected to be completed within six years.
As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) opens nominations for orphan constituencies across the country, the Agona East Constituency Chairperson, Mrs. Hannah Asamoah, has picked a nomination form to contest in the Parliamentary primary.
The nomination form was collected by four Electoral Area Coordinators on behalf of Mrs. Asamoah, accompanied by numerous polling station executives, as they visited the party office in Agona Duakwa on Thursday.
The coordinators, namely Michael Panyne (Agona Mensakrom), Ben Afful (Agona Nantifa), Christopher Afful (Agona Duabone), and Christian Otchere (Agona Nkran), expressed their belief in Mrs. Asamoah’s affability, marketability, and credibility as an aspirant.
They see her as the ideal candidate who can lead the party to victory in the 2024 Parliamentary election, surpassing the current Agona East NDC MP, Queenstar Pokuaa Sawyer.
In response, Mrs. Asamoah expressed her gratitude to the coordinators and polling station executives for their confidence in her candidacy. She acknowledged their demonstration of unity and teamwork, highlighting their readiness to work together to secure the seat.
Mrs. Asamoah emphasized the importance of unity and understanding among the numerous supporters, urging them to put aside their differences and unite for the success of the party. She stressed that a cohesive front was essential in achieving victory.
Additionally, Mrs. Asamoah assured the supporters that she would mobilize resources and provide logistical support to empower the grassroots and motivate them to work diligently towards the party’s goals and objectives.
Nana Kojo Frempong, the Chairman of the Agona East Election Committee, pledged that the committee would diligently carry out its responsibilities in line with the party’s directives.
After the nomination period closes on August 10, 2023, the committee will submit a report on the nominations to the Central Regional office in Cape Coast. From there, the report will be forwarded to the National office in Accra.
Nana Kojo Frempong emphasized the significance of unity and cooperation among party members, highlighting that the party had previously won the Parliamentary seat in 2004 and 2008 due to the strong camaraderie among its members. He expressed hope that members would once again work diligently to secure victory in the upcoming 2024 election.
Accra Technical University (ATU) has been honored with the Best Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Research Award at the inaugural Think Energy SDGs Awards.
This achievement establishes ATU as the first Technical University to receive this accolade, which recognizes the research conducted by its Sustainable Energy Service Centre.
Mr. Humphrey Tetteh, the Chief Executive Officer of African Global Response Energy Environment Limited (AGREE), visited ATU on July 5, 2023, to present the award plaque and citation to the university’s management.
Mr. Tetteh commended ATU’s nomination for its high scores in categories such as innovativeness, impactfulness, and sustainability of their work.
Highlighting the significance of education in the nation’s transition to clean energy, Mr. Tetteh expressed his excitement at witnessing ATU’s notable achievements in the field of sustainable energy.
Professor Amevi Acakpovi, serving as the Lead Applicant on behalf of the University, received the prestigious award. He regarded it as a tremendous motivation for ATU to continue pushing the boundaries of research and development, actively engaging in and benefiting from the fourth industrial revolution.
Professor Acakpovi emphasized that the ATU Sustainable Energy Service Centre (ATU-SESC) was established on July 26, 2022, through a collaboration between the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA), the Energy Commission of Ghana, and with funding from the United States Government via the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). The ATU-SESC has been at the forefront of the university’s research endeavors in the field of sustainable energy.
The Best SDG Research Award serves as a testament to the significant progress made by the ATU-SESC and the university as a whole in the area of sustainable energy.
Other universities, including Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) in Somanya, University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa, and University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, were also nominated in the research category.
The award ceremony took place as part of the 4th Africa Energy and Sustainability Summit, an annual event organized by AGREE Ltd. in collaboration with the SDGs Advisory Unit of the Office of the President and the Ministry of Energy in Ghana. The summit received support from the Ghana National Gas Company Limited.
A recent report by the United Nations children’s agency, UNICEF, indicates that nearly 300 children are believed to have perished or gone missing this year while attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea from North Africa to Europe.
The report highlights the challenges of accurately documenting the true number of casualties, as many shipwrecks either go unrecorded or leave no survivors. Consequently, the actual figure is likely higher than reported.
In response to this alarming situation, UNICEF is advocating for the establishment of more safe and legal pathways for young individuals to seek asylum, as well as improved rescue efforts at sea.
The report emphasizes the need for comprehensive actions to address the underlying causes that compel children to flee their home countries and put their lives at risk.
Addressing this humanitarian crisis requires a multifaceted approach, including providing greater protection for vulnerable children, facilitating access to legal avenues for seeking refuge, and addressing the root causes that drive migration.
University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) has commenced its second edition of the career fair, aimed at providing students with exposure to various career opportunities and industry developments.
The Vice-Chancellor of UENR, Professor Elvis Asare-Bediako, inaugurated the event.
Organized by the Departments of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, as well as Computer and Electrical Engineering, the two-day career fair carries the theme “Energy Transition Prospects and Challenges: The Role of the Graduate Engineer.”
Its primary objective is to bridge the gap between theoretical classroom knowledge and practical industry expectations. Additionally, the fair aims to strengthen the students’ relationships with key industry players such as Ghana Gas, National Petroleum Authority, and Electricity Company of Ghana.
Prominent industry entities, including Bui Power Authority, Energy Commission, GRIDCo, and the Kofi Annan ICT Training Centre, are also participating in the event.
The career fair provides an invaluable opportunity for students to engage with industry professionals and gain insights into emerging trends and challenges within the energy sector.
“Hopefully, our students will learn how they can land jobs with your companies, and certainly, we can foster relationships that can make UENR a choice institution partner for research and other innovative activities,” Prof Asare-Bediako stated at the opening session of the fair held at Fiapre, near Sunyani.
Professor Elvis Asare-Bediako highlighted the significance of strategic collaboration between the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) and industry partners. As the sole university in Ghana and West Africa with a specific mandate to train professionals in the field of energy and natural resources, such collaborations are crucial.
Prof. Asare-Bediako emphasized that energy has emerged as a central force driving global communications and policies. Given the adverse impacts of energy usage on climate change, it is imperative for the university and its students to actively contribute to national development efforts.
By engaging with industry partners and fostering fruitful collaborations, UENR aims to enhance its role in training competent personnel, contributing to advancements in the energy sector, and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
This fair is a step in the direction of exposing students to the career opportunities available to them following such conversations, opportunities for innovation, challenges and directions of the industry while studying on completion of their programmes of study, which will make them able and active citizens of our dear nation,” he stated.
The VC hoped the fair would therefore certainly expose the students to the potential areas they could direct their acquired knowledge and skills from their training in the university.
“Students in our Petroleum Engineering programme have been recent champions of the Society of Petroleum Engineering (SPE) Ghana Section PetroBowl competition. The Computer and Electrical Engineering students are also recent Robotics Champions, and we finally made a placement in the final three at the recent Gas Challenge,” he said.
Prof. Asare-Bediako noted that the energy sector was one of the key drivers of any economy, worrying that the recent astronomical increase in the price of fuel and electricity has had a ripple effect on the prices of basic household commodities.
“To secure the future of this all-important sector, a critical decision has to be made by grooming the next generation of managers, engineers and technicians,” the VC stated, and therefore underlined the need for the students to understand the onerous task ahead of them.
Prof Asare-Bediako said the global call for the control of carbon emissions has placed natural gas as the reliable source of clean fuel as the nation sought to bring renewable energy sources into the energy mix.
The fair would therefore create a platform for both industry and academia to engage on the Sustainable Development Goals and their relationship to effective collaboration between industry and academia, and their impact on national development, he said.
Dr Yaw Boakye-Ansah, the Head of Department of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering earlier said he was optimistic the fair would not only advance the knowledge of the students but also position them well on their career path.
Former President John Dramani Mahama was among the many dignitaries who paid their last respects to the late Ghanaian playwright Professor Ama Ata Aidoo at the fore court of the State House on Thursday, July 13.
In his tribute to the former Education Minister, Mr Mahama described Prof Ama Ata Aidoo as a candle whose light inspired many, including himself.
He said: “I have had the privilege of being one of the millions of mirrors across the globe that reflected the light that she, as the prime source, inspired and freely gifted the world.”
Her literary works, he recalled read like a primer as they were on the lips and ingrained in the minds of every school-going boy or girl in secondary school. Among her classic works, The Dilemma of a Ghost and Changes are Mr Mahama’s favourite.
Full tribute by former President John Dramani Mahama
My tribute to the late Professor Ama Ata Aidoo ~~
“There are two ways of spreading light,” says the celebrated American writer Edith Wharton, “to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”
Aunt Ama was the candle, and I have had the privilege of being one of the millions of mirrors across the globe that reflected the light that she, as the prime source, inspired and freely gifted the world.
Her literary works read like a primer: they were on the lips and ingrained in the minds of every school going boy or girl in secondary school. Among her classic works, The Dilemma of a Ghost and Changes were two of my favourites.
Anyone who had the pleasure of reading them was immediately hooked and immersed in a roller-coaster of emotions that only the best of literature can give.
The first time I had a close interaction with Aunt Ama was when I was Vice President and I was launching my own book, “My First Coup D’état.”
I had always appreciated her literary prowess, but my own book project made me appreciate Aunt Ama even more. Writing my book was an extremely tasking endeavour given that I had to combine with my office duties with this project. But Aunt Ama is not one to be easily satisfied.
When I hosted Ghanaian writers at my residence, she not only honoured my invitation but remarked, “I hope you are on your second book” to which I responded that I was too busy. She didn’t accept that but said, “you are never too busy to write a book.”
It always gave me a sense of great pride that she once served under our political tradition under the leadership of the late President Jerry John Rawlings in charge of Education.
Being the passionate, humane person that she was, she could not accept that even in those arduous days of economic recovery, we could not make education free for all, thus causing her to resign from the position.
It is on hindsight, perhaps, not surprising that, when Ghana transitioned into the 4th Republican Democracy, President Rawlings oversaw a new Constitution that made provision for education, once the resources and required structures had been put in place, to be free – beginning from the basic level, through secondary to the tertiary.
The words of Irving Berlin echoes even strongly: “the song is ended, but the melody lingers on.” Aunt Ama, your voice lingers on. I can still hear your call for me to do my second book. You will be happy to learn that I have started.
You are gone today, but I will complete the second book as you requested. Thank you for your service to our nation, to your continent and to the world.
May your journey to the afterlife be filled with peace, love, and light, and may your memory live in our hearts eternally.
The foundation of South Africa’s ex-President Jacob Zuma has stated that he is currently in Moscow, the capital of Russia, for reasons related to his health.
“He will be returning to [South Africa] once his doctors have completed their treatment,” a statement from the Jacob G Zuma foundation continued.
Zuma departed for Russia on a commercial flight last week, according to Mzwanele Manyi, the spokesperson for his foundation. This is not the first time Zuma has sought medical treatment in Russia, as he previously visited in 2014 after an alleged poisoning incident.
On Thursday, the Constitutional Court declared that Zuma’s medical parole had been granted unlawfully.
The parole had been authorized by Arthur Fraser, the former head of the prison service, who is considered an ally of Zuma.
In September 2021, Zuma was released after serving less than eight weeks of a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court, stemming from his refusal to cooperate with an anti-corruption investigation during his presidency.
The Department of Correctional Services has indicated that it is reviewing the Constitutional Court’s ruling and will provide further comments after seeking legal advice.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), the main opposition party, has expressed support for the court’s decision, asserting that it confirms Zuma’s rightful place in jail.
Managing Director in charge of World Bank Operations, Ms. Anna Bjerde, has expressed her satisfaction with the progress made in implementing the Ghana Accountability and Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP).
She commended the strong teacher-student engagement, which has resulted in improved reading and comprehension skills among pupils.
Accompanied by a World Bank delegation, Ms. Bjerde visited various projects financed by the Bank, including GALOP. This initiative, supported by the International Development Association (IDA), focuses on seven out of the 28 basic schools in the Weija Gbawe Municipality.
As part of GALOP, teachers have received training in differentiated learning and targeted instruction, which includes teaching reading and numeracy skills to children and developing teaching and learning materials.
Notably, the New Gbawe Municipal Basic School, one of the participating schools, achieved excellent results in the 2021 National Standardized Test for primary four pupils.
Their scores surpassed the national average, with 83 percent in English and 57 percent in Mathematics, compared to the respective national averages of 54 percent and 46 percent.
Ms Bjerde was satisfied with the outcome of the project, saying, “What I saw at the school was very engaging, especially with the teachers and the pupils, and the excellent skills exhibited by the teachers to keep the pupils motivated in learning.”
She stated that building strong human capital was an important ingredient in ensuring sustainable development, adding that promoting technical and vocational training would create job opportunities for the youth.
She said the World Bank would work to scale up the project across the country to improve teaching and learning.
“Going forward, we will ask the teachers if they need any support to improve the implementation of the projects,” she added according to the Ghana News Agency, and urged the government to work on the ratio of teachers to pupils to enable the teachers to fully understand the educational needs of pupils and develop innovative ways to address them.
On his part, Deputy Minister of Education, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, disclosed that the Ghana Accountability and Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP) has received a total funding of $150 million from the International Development Association (IDA) and $60.7 million from Trust Funds. The funding covers the period from 2019 to 2025.
The primary objective of GALOP is to enhance the quality of education in underperforming basic schools while promoting equity and accountability within the education sector in Ghana.
Rev. Fordjour highlighted that the project has provided support to 10,500 schools nationwide. Additionally, he noted that 81 percent of primary schools benefiting from GALOP now have a pupil-trained-teacher ratio below 50:1. This represents an increase from the baseline of 75 percent in 2019.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that Ghana is committed to transforming its education system and preparing students to meet the learning outcomes of the 21st century. He emphasized the country’s efforts to create a positive learning environment that enables students to thrive in the evolving market space.
Ghana has been receiving support from the World Bank since 1957, and the current active portfolio consists of 21 projects amounting to $3.6 billion. These projects encompass various sectors, including nutrition, education, finance, social protection, jobs, and digital development.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has initiated a fresh investigation into the reported war crimes occurring in Sudan’s Darfur region.
The conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has led to a surge in ethnic violence.
Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the ICC, disclosed that the investigations would encompass various atrocities, including attacks on civilians, mass sexual assaults, and the destruction of homes and markets.
This inquiry will be carried out under the existing mandate for Darfur, which dates back to 2005.
The previous investigation conducted under this mandate resulted in genocide charges being brought against former Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir.
The renewed investigation seeks to address ongoing allegations of war crimes in the region.
The final funeral rites for the late Ghanaian playwright, Professor Ama Ata Aidoo are expected to take place on July 15 and 16, respectively.
The ceremony will take place at Abeadze Kyeakor in the Central region. The attire to be worn on Saturday, July 15 should be Black or Red. On Sunday, Black and White attires are to be worn.
The final rites comes after the pre-burial and burial service held on Thursday, July 13, at the forecourt of the State House.
At Thursday’s event, dignitaries such as President Nana Akufo-Addo, former President John Dramani Mahama; the African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr Ibn Chambas; Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Akosua Frema Osei Opare, and the 2020 NDC running mate, Prof Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman, were present.
Officiated by a large retinue of clergy led by the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, Most Rev. Dr Paul Boafo, it also attracted ministers of state, Members of Parliament, some members of academia, the military top brass, family and friends.
Reading a tribute, President Akufo-Addo quoted an African saying that: “Every time an elder dies, a library burns with him,” meaning when an elder passes on some amount of stored knowledge disappears.
He, however, explained that that could not be said about Ama Ata Aidoo who was a knowledgeable teacher, famous poet, flawless public servant and an outstanding writer, who possessed excellent mastery of the English language and put all into writing.
The President said the late professor was his contemporary in the 1960s when they were students at the University of Ghana, Legon and “someone with whom I enjoyed friendly and productive relations.”
President Akufo-Addo indicated that through her work, Ama Atta Aidoo made a tremendous contribution to the development of Ghana and Africa, and expressed so many of the feelings about the faith of Ghanaians and Africans.
The ceremony was interspersed with some of her poems, hymns by the Methodist Church and songs by the Winneba Youth Choir.
Prof. Ama Atta Aidoo passed on at the age of 81 in the early hours Wednesday, May 31, 2023, after a short illness.
Ama Ata Aidoo who received international recognition as one of the most prominent African writers of the 20th and 21st centuries wrote her first play, The Dilemma of a Ghost, in 1964.
For more than fifty years she has produced top-notch plays including Anowa, Pittsburgh, Our Sister KillJoy, her first novel published in 1977.
In 2000, Aidoo founded the Mbaasem Foundation, a non-governmental organization based in Ghana with a mission “to support the development and sustainability of African women writers and their artistic output”.
The academician who studied at the University of Ghana, Legon and held a fellowship in creative writing at Stanford University in California, was appointed Minister of Education under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) in 1982.
She resigned after 18 months, realising that she would be unable to achieve her aim of making education in Ghana freely accessible to all.
If you are looking for a place to learn about Ghana’s history and culture, you might want to check out the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra.
The park, which was recently revamped and modernised by President Akufo-Addo, is a tribute to Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who led the country to independence in 1957.
The park was originally built in 1990 by the late Jerry John Rawlings and opened to the public in 1992.
It occupies the former British colonial Polo Grounds, where Dr Nkrumah famously declared Ghana’s independence. It also serves as the final resting place for him and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah.
However, the park had not undergone any significant renovation in its 25-year existence. It suffered from various issues such as malfunctioning fountains, leaky roofs in the museum, and deteriorating facilities.
That’s why, in 2018, President Akufo-Addo secured a $40 million loan facility from the World Bank through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to enhance the tourism sector and address its constraints.
Part of this loan was used to rehabilitate and redevelop the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum.
The project, which cost about $3.5 million, started on July 19, 2022 and was completed in March 2023. It was officially commissioned by President Akufo-Addo on July 4, 2023 and opened to the public on July 11, 2023.
The revamped Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park now boasts of new and improved features such as:
A presidential library with books, documents and artefacts related to Dr Nkrumah’s life and legacy
An audio-visual fountain that incorporates captivating visuals and synchronised music
An upgraded road and drainage network
A new restaurant
A VVIP lounge
An artistic freedom wall
A music and light fountain to boost night tourism
The park has also been commercialised to generate revenue for its maintenance and operation. The park charges different fees for visitors depending on their nationality and age. Here are the prices for touring the park:
Ghanaians
Children: GHS5
Junior High School and Senior High School students: GHS10
Tertiary students: GHS15
Adults: GHS25
Non-Ghanaians
Children: GHS30
Tertiary students: GHS60
Adults: GHS100
The park is open to the public from Monday to Sunday from 8:30am to 11pm.
The park can also be leased for events such as weddings, parties, concerts and conferences. The fees for holding an event at the park are:
During the day (for the first two hours): GHS2000
During the night (for the first two hours): GHS3000
According to Edward Quao, the Acting Director of the Park, the fees are necessary to enable the smooth running of the edifice. He also said that he was satisfied with the patronage of the park so far.
President Akufo-Addo said that the renovated and modernised park befits the status of Dr Nkrumah as an outstanding pan-Africanist and a champion of Africa’s liberation from colonialism and imperialism. He also said that the park would help attract more tourists to Ghana and boost the country’s economy.
He urged the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Ghana Tourism Authority to leverage on the Year of Return, Beyond the Return and Destination Ghana initiatives that he launched to position Ghana as a destination of choice.
He also said that his government aims to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from five percent to 10 percent, as well as attract five million tourists by 2024.
What do you think of the new Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park?
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
The report on the Criminal Offences Amendment Act, presented by the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, has sparked a division among Members of Parliament (MPs).
The proposed amendment aims to replace the death penalty with life imprisonment.
Originating from the colonial era, the death penalty in Ghana was historically applied to crimes such as murder, attempted murder, genocide, piracy, and smuggling of gold or diamonds.
However, since 1993, the country has refrained from issuing death warrants for the execution of offenders.
During the parliamentary debate on the amendment bill, MPs expressed a range of contrasting opinions regarding the abolition of the death penalty.
MP for Zebilla Constituency, Cletus Avoka said “I first submit that the arguments they have advanced in terms of the motion are very scary and have no measures at all. Arguments in favour of the motion are unmeritorious.”
MP for Madina and proponent of the amendment, Francis-Xavier Sosu noted that “since the attainment of independence in 1957, Ghana has executed 49 persons either by firing squad or by hanging and most of those executions mainly happened during military regimes.”
“The current position of Ghana is that we are abolitionists in practice. This is so because since 1993 to date, Ghana has not signed a death warrant to execute anyone and that is very commendable.”
Builsa North MP, James Agalga and Second Deputy Majority Whip, Habib Iddrisu made a correction that “we cannot count universal declaration on human rights a part of our treaty obligations with the greatest of respect. The universal declarations on human rights are declarations, they are non-binding, and so they do not quality for a treaty.”
Two notable political adversaries of President Kais Saied in Tunisia have been granted release by a judge after spending five months in jail.
Chaima Issa and Lazahr Akremi were part of a larger group of approximately 20 prominent individuals who were arrested in February on allegations of conspiring against the state.
The remaining individuals had their appeals dismissed, according to reports from their lawyers.
President Saied has centralized power since he suspended Tunisia’s parliament two years ago.
Critics of the president argue that he is dismantling the country’s sole democracy, which emerged from the uprisings of the Arab Spring in 2011.
Al-Rayyan, a Qatari team, have confirmed the acquisition of Rodrigo, formerly a record signing for Leeds United.
In 2020, Leeds invested £27 million to secure the services of the Spanish forward from Valencia, subsequent to their reentry into the Premier League.
Over the course of his tenure at the club, the 32-year-old showcased his talent in 97 matches across various competitions, finding the back of the net 28 times.
A statement on the Leeds website said: “We thank Rodrigo for his efforts and wish him all the best for the future.”
As Leeds United face the challenge of competing in the Sky Bet Championship after their relegation, they have recently bid farewell to Rodrigo, who has moved to the Qatar Stars League.
The Spanish forward’s departure marks another change for the team, now under the guidance of their new manager, Daniel Farke.
During the ongoing summer transfer window, Leeds United has also witnessed the departure of several other players.
Defenders Diego Llorente and Robin Koch, along with midfielder Brenden Aaronson, have embarked on season-long loan spells, joining Roma, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Union Berlin respectively.
Electricity supply to the Treasure Island Hotel and the Musahamat Banana Farm in Aveyime has been cut off by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The action is a part of Operation Zero, the electricity company’s ongoing effort to mobilize income.
The Farm Business, a part of the Tema Region of ECG’s Ada District, owes the energy distributor GH219,184.42, while Treasure Island Hotel owes GH379,775.95; as a result, both of their connections were cut off on Thursday.
ECG on Tuesday, July 11 , began a two-month-long campaign to ensure that all customer of theirs pay outstanding debt.
“The intention is that once customers have consumed electricity, they must be ready to pay for it in a bid not to build debt,” said Sakyiwaa Mensah, ECG PRO for Tema Region.
In another development, the Aveyime Irrigation also got disconnected over a debt of GH₵63,801.22 while the Ada Technical Institute has also been disconnected over their GH₵71,102.11 indebtedness to the electricity distributor.
“The Operation Zero campaign has many of the staff of ECG deployed to the field, visiting customers, ensuring debts are being paid, monitoring meters to ensure their integrity, checking on other ECG installations as well as customer education on ECG going cashless and how to use its mobile app, the Power App,” said Ms. Mensah.
She further added, “there are, however, a lean presence of staff available in all offices, overseeing to customers who may visit the offices for additional services”.
The utility company also recommends that all meters on customers’ properties be made accessible to its staff by both customers and the general public.
Customers and the general public are recommended to use mobile money or debit cards wherever possible to pay ECG since the corporation conducts cashless transactions.
The Human Rights Court on Thursday, July 13, dismissed an application filed by Reverend Victor Kusi Boateng which sought to restrain Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa from citing him during discussions of the National cathedral project.
After the MP was captured on camera kicking court papers meant to serve him in connection with a defamation claim launched against him, Reverend Victor Kusi Boateng’s attorneys filed the contempt charges.
The NDC lawmaker was sued by Reverend Kusi Boateng for writing articles implying that he was using a false identity and engaging in a conflict of interest because he was reportedly using the name Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.
In a Facebook post, Mr Ablakwa noted that “the court’s judgment was emphatic that my parliamentary oversight had unraveled two distinct identities in conduct which borders on criminality.”
According to him, the application was dismissed for “lack of capacity and locus standi.”
The judge awarded the cost of GHS10,000.00 against Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng.
Mr Ablakwa says he dedicates this “latest legal victory to the masses who have kept me resolute with their prayers and support for transparent and accountable governance.”
“I am indebted to my outstanding legal team,” he added.
However, there is one more impending defamation suit against Mr Ablakwa.
Summary of Judgment
It has been proven that Kwabena Adu Gyamfi and Victor Kusi Boateng are two separate identities concurrently used by the Applicant and 1st Respondent is justified in his claims that, Victor Kusi Boateng is not an alias but another separate identity altogether.
The way the two identities were used does not suggest a simple case of two different names, but rather two independent and totally separate identities to conceal applicant’s dealings in a manner that was not obvious, until the investigations and publications of 1st Respondent.
Applicant’s assertion that the use of two names in the manner he has done is not a crime under our laws is misconceived, as the two identities were used in a pattern of duplicity depicting a lack of transparency and this conduct borders on criminality.
The Application was sought to be enforced under Article 33(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which requires an Applicant’s personal interest in the matter to confer locus standi.
From the record, it is not clear which of the two separate identities seeks to enforce its fundamental human rights by this suit. And once there is a clear case of double identity presented and proven before this court, this Application is dismissed for lack of capacity and locus standi.
Costs of GHC10,000 awarded against the Applicant in favour of the 1st Respondent.
Godwin Emefiele, recently suspended as head of Nigeria’s central bank, has sued the Department of State Services (DSS), the nation’s secret police, over his incarceration.
The newly elected President Bola Tinubu suspended the 61-year-old on June 10; a day later, he was arrested. The man has not yet been officially charged.
At the time the president’s office said it was part of an “ongoing investigation of his office and the planned reforms in the financial sector”.
When Mr. Emefiele was absent from the Abuja High Court on Tuesday for the hearing, his attorney claimed that the continued imprisonment of the politician violated his constitutional rights.
According to DSS lawyers, a lower court had authorized the agency to keep the banker while inquiries are made.
It was decided to adjourn the case until July 13th.
For allowing the House to pass the anti-LGBTQ+ bill despite outstanding legal actions, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has been cited for contempt at the Supreme Court.
According to researcher Dr. Amanda Odoi, the Speaker has disrespected and derided the justice system.
“The respondent has continually violated and shown utter disregard for the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana and the court process.
“That the respondent’s clear, intentional and continuous disregard of the court process necessitates the Respondent being sanctioned for contempt in the public interest and to protect the dignity of the Court,” the Court documents are quoted to state by MyJoyOnline.com.
Dr. Odoi is one of two citizens who have filed lawsuits against the Attorney General and Speaker of Parliament over the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
According to her research, the Speaker has been served with all pertinent legal documents, including one seeking the judge to impose an injunction prohibiting Parliament from considering the measure.
Despite this, she claimed, the Speaker moved the bill through to the second reading in Parliament this week.
“That by his conduct in directing or causing Parliament to proceed to a Second Reading of the Bill, in full knowledge of the pending suit and related interlocutory injunction application, the Respondent has disregarded and disrespected the authority of this Court.
“That such disregard interferes with the outcome of the pending litigation, brings the administration of justice into disrepute and undermines public confidence in the judicial system.”
She, therefore, believes an imposition of sanctions will preserve the court’s dignity.
Kosmos Energy, the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Petro SA, and Jubilee Oil Holdings, as well as Tullow Ghana Limited, have announced the successful start-up of the Jubilee South East (JSE) Project offshore Ghana.
In order to maintain gross Jubilee output over 100,000 bopd, the first JSE production well has been brought online. Two further producers and one water injector are anticipated to go online this year.
Through an ongoing infill drilling program, Tullow and its partners want to maintain this higher level of production at Jubilee over the next years.
The partnership has identified multiple future drilling locations and is focused on high-grading these opportunities to further extend the plateau and realise the full potential of the significant Jubilee resource base.
To drill wells and put up the infrastructure necessary to bring previously untapped reserves to production, Tullow and its partners have invested over $1 billion over the last three years in the JSE Project.
The project pioneered the use of regional vendors, and the vast majority of the intricate offshore infrastructure was built by regional businesses in Ghana, employing more than 90% local workers.
This shows the growth of Ghana’s supplier base, which can now sustain important parts of the country’s oil and gas industry, and it is evidence of Tullow and its partners’ dedication to building up local capability.
A celebration honoring First Oil will take place in the third quarter of 2023.
The successful start-up at Jubilee South East is an important milestone for Tullow and for Ghana, and I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to putting this close-by Ghanaian facility into production, according to Rahul Dhir, Chief Executive Officer of Tullow.
“Through our strong project management and operating capability, we have delivered a complex offshore development which is one of the key catalysts to unlock value for our business.
“We are well positioned for future growth with production ramping up in the second half of 2023 that will generate significant free cash flow. This marks the start of material deleveraging as we continue our transition into a low-debt business with the financial flexibility to pursue value accretive opportunities.”
On his part, the Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, said, “At the Ministry of Energy, we are delighted by this important milestone and wish to congratulate Tullow and the Jubilee partners who have contributed in diverse ways to this journey.
“The approval of the Greater Jubilee Full Field Development Plan by the Ministry in October 2017 paved the way for investment in the development of the JSE project, which has now culminated in the delivery of the First Oil from the JSE area.
“The government of President Nana Akufo-Addo will continue to work with all our strategic partners with a view to leveraging our God-given resources for the ultimate benefit of our people.”
Director of communications at the office of the President, Eugene Kofi Bentum Arhin, has announced his plans to contest the parliamentary primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Awutu Senya West Constituency in the Central Region.
He made the announcement in a Facebook post on Thursday, July 13, 2023.
Although poised for victory, Mr Arhin noted that he would accept a result that indicates otherwise following and fair election.
According to him, his “commitment to ensuring the constituency returns to the fold of the NPP in 2024 is unwavering.”
The official announcement came a day before the NPP closes its nominations for ‘orphan’ constituencies. Nominations were opened on June 16 and close on July 14, 2023.
The people of Awutu Senya West are currently represented by Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui who sides with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The upcoming NPP primaries is slated for November 4, 2023.
Nominations for constituencies with sitting MPs will be opened from December 20, 2023 to January 4, 2024. Elections will be held on February 24, 2024.
The New Patriotic Party has barred its National, Regional, Constituency Party Executives as well as Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) from contesting incumbent MPs in the upcoming Parliamentary primaries.
It is believed that barring MMDCEs from contesting sitting MPs will curtail any party division.
Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey
Joseph Wollacott, a Ghanaian international, has participated in his debut game with Hibernian.
The goalkeeper for the Black Stars moved from English lower-league club Charlton Athletic to the Scottish Premiership this summer.
Joseph Wollacott started for Hibernian today as the team faced English side Bournemouth in a preseason friendly after working out with his teammates over the past few weeks.
Despite making several excellent saves, the goaltender and his squad were unsuccessful.
Scotland’s team was no match for Bournemouth, who scored twice in each half to easily win 4-0.
AFC Bournemouth won the friendly match thanks to goals from Philip Billing and David Brooks in the second half after goals from Jaidon Anthony and David Brooks had made the game close in the first.
In order to establish himself as the top goalkeeper before the start of the upcoming football season, Joseph Wollacott will seek to keep a clean sheet against Hibernian in the upcoming friendly.
Opposition MPs in Sierra Leone have skipped their parliamentary swearing-in ceremony following elections last month.
According to the electoral commission’s results, which the opposition contests, the All People’s Congress (APC) won 54 of 149 seats.
The head of the election commission’s resignation and a new election within six months have been demanded by the APC.
According to David Reimer, the US ambassador to Sierra Leone, “those who voted for the opposition need to have their voices heard” and “a vibrant democracy needs a strong opposition.”
But APC leader Samura Kamara, the losing presidential contender, tweeted: “Under normal circumstances, each day forward means progress. In our political journey however in Sierra Leone, a new day now means going backwards.”
Daniel Amartey, a defender from Ghana, has finalized his transfer to Besiktas of Turkey.
The seasoned center back agreed to a two-year deal with the Turkish superpower, plus an additional year.
The 28-year-old left Premier League club Leicester City after seven years and signed with Besiktas as a free agent.
The center-back made an impressive debut with Leicester, taking home the league championship in his first year. Additionally, he had a key impact on the club’s FA Cup victory over Chelsea in 2021.
Amartey’s exit from Leicester had been followed by rumors of a possible transfer to Celtic. The rumors started because of his prior connections to Brendan Rodgers, his former coach at Leicester City and current Celtic manager.
Amartey helps Besiktas in their pursuit of victory in both domestic and international events by bringing his expertise and defensive strength to the team.
Amartey is the most recent player from Ghana to relocate to Turkey. taking after fellow countryman Alexander Djiku, who just joined Fenerbahce.
Jamie Leweling, a Ghanaian of German descent who plays for Vfl Stuttgart in the Bundesliga, has officially joined the team.
The 22-year-old is a season-long loanee from Union Berlin of the same Bundesliga.
The resourceful attacker signed a contract on Friday morning and is anticipated to be a key player for the team come next season.
Reacting to the acquisition of Leweling, the Sporting Director of Stuttgart Fabian Wohlgemuth said, “Jamie can be used in several positions. He gained Bundesliga experience in Fürth and at Union Berlin and proved his qualities. With his footballing skills and intense style of play, Jamie is an asset to our offensive game”
The forward has a contract with Union Berlin that runs until summer 2026.
Despite featuring for Germany at youth level, Leweling is still eligible to play for the Black Stars of Ghana.
Reports in France indicate that Mohammed Salisu, a highly promising Ghanaian defender, is attracting the attention of Ligue 1 team AS Monaco.
Crystal Palace appears prepared to make a substantial move in their pursuit of Salisu, seeking to add his defensive brilliance and enormous potential to their ranks. They have an eye for talent and a desire to strengthen their squad.
Axel Disasi is planning to join a new team, and Malang Sarr, who was on loan to Monaco, has returned to Chelsea, so Monaco is looking for a defender.
Salisu, 24, moved to the Saints from Real Valladolid during the summer 2020 transfer window and has since established himself as an important member of the squad.
Unfortunately, injuries this season has meant that he missed a lot of games.
Southampton was relegated to the Championship after their 2-0 defeat to Fulham.
Salisu made his Southampton debut on 11 February 2021, six months after signing for the club, playing the full 90 minutes and keeping a clean sheet in a 2–0 FA Cup away victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers as Danny Ings and Stuart Armstrong scored a goal each to send Southampton through to the quarter-finals of the competition.
He made 22 appearances and assisted one goal in the Premier League this season.
Alexander Djiku, a Ghanaian international, has begun training with his new team, Fenerbache, in preparation for the upcoming campaign.
This Monday, the 26-year-old center defender officially joined the Turkish superpowers by agreeing to a three-year deal with an additional year’s option.
The Black Stars defender wasted little time in joining his teammate in preparation for the upcoming season.
Djiku’s contract was set to expire at the end of June, and Strasbourg, who recently hired Arsenal icon Patrick Vieira as their manager, had planned to extend it. Fenerbache made a more alluring offer once the player made the decision to consider alternative options.
Djiku made the decision to join Fenerbache despite being courted by Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga and Lille in the French Ligue 1 due to his admiration for the team’s vision.
Since joining the squad in 2019, Djiku has been an essential component of Strasbourg, serving as captain as they successfully escaped relegation the previous year.
Last summer, the defender was on the verge of moving from Strasbourg, but problems with agent commission prevented him from making the switch to Hoffenheim.
Djiku joins the famed Turkish club with the intention of helping them succeed in the future, and his move to Fenerbahce is a significant milestone in his career.
Former captain of the Black Stars, Asamoah Gyan, has commented on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier’s African draw.
At the draw on Thursday, July 13, when Ghana was assigned to Group 1, the illustrious forward was present.
The national teams of Mali, Chad, Comoros, Madagascar, and the Central African Republic will compete against the Black Stars in the group.
Asamoah Gyan commented on the draw and predicted that Ghana will not have an easy time in the qualifying rounds.
The former Sunderland FC man is however confident that no matter what the Black Stars will qualify for the next mundial.
“I think since 2006 when we qualified for the first time to 2022 we have been very consistent…..2026 is not going to be easy but we will try our best to make sure we qualify,” Asamoah Gyan shared.
The African qualifiers which will be played in a period of two years will commence in November this year.
The next FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The African Continental Unity Party (ACUP), a Pan-African global movement, has been given a provisional certificate by the Electoral Commission (EC), enabling them to establish a political party that can take part in future elections.
On July 12, 2023, the certificate was given to the ACUP Ghana leadership during a brief ceremony at the EC office in Accra by Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, Director of Electoral Services.
A global movement of Africans, led by ACUP, noted for its catchphrase “The Emerging Force,” seeks to create a new political order that upholds African ideals and beliefs and promotes prosperity for the continent’s citizens.
The provisional certificate, granted in accordance with Section 8(2) of the Political Parties Act, 2000 (Act 574), signifies that the ACUP has been authorized to organize itself into a political party in compliance with the country’s electoral laws.
Following the presentation of the certificate, Christiana A. Agyare, the interim national women’s organizer of the ACUP, addressed the media and emphasized that the party is not just a “Nkrumahist Party” but also shares the ideals and perspectives of well-known Pan-Africanists like Marcus Garvey, Kwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba, and Thomas Sankara.
Agyare highlighted the ongoing relevance of the dream to achieve the complete liberation of Africans and stated that the party intends to mobilize Africans, including those in the diaspora, to bring about positive transformations in the lives and well-being of the people.
She continued by expressing the party’s ambition to gain full political recognition and spread its influence to other African countries. Politics, according to Agyare, should serve the general populace and not be a privilege reserved for a small group of people. The ACUP seeks to alter the conversation surrounding politics.
Dr. Quaicoe warned the ACUP leadership that the provisional certificate was not a definitive one and that the party should not engage in political campaigns as a result.
He instructed them to meet a number of requirements, such as identifying their founding members, creating district, regional, and national offices, and presenting annual audited finances if their application is granted.
Following an impressive positive reception to her debut single, Desire, KiKi Celine is set to release her next song.
The young songstress is steadily taking her place among the new and next generation of artistes.
She made waves with her first single, with the song still on the airwaves and getting more and more streams by the day.
Her new single, FRAGILE has her baring her heart and insecurities for her fans, friends and family to see.
The song touches on the things that bother Celine as well as how she handles such vulnerable parts of her.
She believes in accepting your weakness as that is the way you turn them to strengths.
She teams up again with the talented producer Insvne Auggie to bring this AfroPop to life.
With this second single, KiKi Celine looks to address her shortcomings others may share and inspire them to own who they are in order to be better if they see fit.
