TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • 5 reasons behind Duffuor’s withdrawal from NDC Primaries

    5 reasons behind Duffuor’s withdrawal from NDC Primaries

    Last night, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor, a flagbearer aspirant of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), made the decision to withdraw from the race.

    This came after he filed an interlocutory injunction on Tuesday to halt the party’s primaries, citing discrepancies in the voter register.

    However, he later withdrew the lawsuit following discussions with the Council of Elders, with the assurance that his concerns would be addressed.

    Speaking to journalists in Accra on Friday, Dr. Duffuor listed several reasons for his withdrawal after an intense campaign across the party’s constituencies in recent months.

    Unacceptable breach of faith by Council of Elders/Party: The flagbearer aspirant said the party and the Council of Elders acted in bad faith after promising to work on the irregularities he raised prior to the primaries.

    Failure by the party to set up a technical committee: Dr. Duffuor explained that the Council of Elders failed to set up a technical committee to look into the issues he raised.

    “At the meeting chaired by the former Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho, all stakeholders at the meeting agreed that the party Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah would immediately set up a technical team comprising the technical representatives from the 3 presidential aspirants and the party’s election committee to determine how soon the irregularities with the voters register could be resolved in readiness for the Presidential primaries”.

    No show of committee’s report: He also mentioned that he was also assured of a committee’s report to determine the next line of action after the committee was set up.

    Executives rushed to organise press conference: The former Bank of the Bank of Ghana lamented that after his meeting with the Council of Elders, the hierarchy of the party hurriedly organised a press conference indicating that all materials have been dispatched to the various constituencies without resolving the issues he raised.

    “However, despite the assurances given to myself and my team by the Chairman of the Party, the executives of the party, in an act of complete and unacceptable breach of faith, went ahead to convene a press conference announcing that the elections would go ahead tomorrow, without having resolved the concerns surrounding the voters register as decided at the meeting of the Council of Elders”.

    Voter’s register characterised with irregularities: A disappointed flagbearer of NDC noted that the executives of the party distributed the ballot papers to the constituencies without the involvement of his team.

    “Taking part in such will be akin to knowingly taking part in a poisoned calabash,” he said.

    Read below a full statement by Dr. Kwabena Duffuor

  • Emmanuel Dzamefe optimistic of winning Ho Central slot in NDC Primaries

    Emmanuel Dzamefe optimistic of winning Ho Central slot in NDC Primaries

    Emmanuel Kafui Dzamefe, a marketer, is optimistic about his chances of winning the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in the Ho Central Constituency, located in the Volta Region.

    He believes that he is the leading candidate among the seven aspirants competing in the primary. Dzamefe attributes his confidence to his capabilities, life achievements, and other factors that set him apart from the other contenders.

    “Among the seven of us, I will say boldly that I am the front-runner, I am peerless in terms of life achievement. If you profile all of us, I think that I am way ahead of the other contestants”, he said in an interview with Joy News at the election center in Ho. 

    He said he gained some experiences in the previous elections which he brought to play during his campaign and hopes it would lead him to victory. 

    NDC Primaries: Emmanuel Dzamefe confident of winning Ho Central Parliamentary Candidate slot

    Mr. Dzamefe who was an assembly member added that the delegates have assured of giving him the nod to represent the NDC in the 2024 parliamentary elections as he had served them well and deserved to be rewarded.

    “It is my time, I have served them longest and so it is time for them to reward me appropriately and that is the feedback I am getting. It is wonderful”, he concluded. 

    The Ho Central Constituency in the Volta Region has attracted a diverse group of candidates for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary.

    Alongside Emmanuel Kafui Dzamefe, other aspirants include Raphael Korda, an engineer; Selorm Dey, a Chartered accountant and lawyer; and Kasu Delali Kofi, a former branch executive and teacher.

    The remaining candidates in the race are Stanley Nelvis Kwasi Glate, a former Constituency Secretary and Lecturer at the Ho Technical University; Robert Kofi Doh, a medical doctor; and Edem Kofi Kpotosu, who serves as the Volta Regional Human Resource Manager for the Ghana Education Service.

    Voting is currently underway at the Ola Senior High School assembly hall, where 2,270 delegates are expected to participate in selecting the NDC parliamentary candidate for Ho Central.

  • Let us all support outcome of today’s primaries – Kojo Bonsu

    Let us all support outcome of today’s primaries – Kojo Bonsu

    Presidential candidate in the National Democratic Congress’ primaries, Kojo Bonsu, who cast his vote at the Jubilee Park has entreated the rank and file of the party to respect whatever decision is taken by electorates today.

    Despite holding the assertion that his chances are good, he noted that the goal of the elections is to ensure NDC had a good run in the 2024 elections.

    “I want to tell everybody in the party that 2024 is our main goal, so we should all come together, vote wisely and make sure that this party has the strength to fight in the 2024 elections very well. My expectation is that, after the election today, we will all support it, 2024 is our goal. My chances are very positive.”

    Reacting to the withdrawal of Dr. Kwabena Duffuor from the presidential race, Kojo Bonsu, a former Kumasi Major, said: “The most important thing is ‘die wufie asem’. I think it is a family matter. We are one big family, what has happened is our family matter.”

    After encountering some setbacks prior to the primaries, the NDC finally resolved the issues, paving the way for the exercise today, Saturday, May 13, 2023.

    One of the flagbearer hopefuls, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor had sued the NDC, citing some discrepancies and refusal to furnish him with the party’s photo album.

    Although he subsequently withdrew the case from court, Dr. Duffuor later pulled out of the presidential race leaving two persons –John Dramani Mahama and Kojo Bonsu — in the contest.

  • IMF welcomes financing assurances from Ghana’s creditors

    IMF welcomes financing assurances from Ghana’s creditors

    The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, has expressed her appreciation for the Official Creditor Committee for acknowledging the significance of an IMF-supported economic programme for Ghana.

    She also commended their commitment to engaging in negotiations for debt restructuring terms.

    In a positive development, Ghana’s official creditors, led by China and France, have established a committee to initiate discussions on debt restructuring. This development sets the stage for the approval of a $3 billion IMF loan for Ghana.

    Following the financial crisis, Ghana defaulted on a significant portion of its external debt in December. In February, the country successfully completed a domestic debt exchange as part of its efforts to address the crisis.

    Reacting to the creditor committee for Ghana under the G20 common framework for debt treatment, the IMF chief said, “I welcome the statement from the Official Creditor Committee for Ghana on the importance of an IMF-supported economic program, together with its commitment to negotiate debt restructuring terms accordingly.

    “This statement provides the necessary financing assurances for the IMF Executive Board to consider the proposed Fund-supported program and unlock much-needed financing from Ghana’s development partners.

    “I also strongly endorse the call by the Official Creditor Committee for private creditors and other official bilateral creditors to commit to comparable debt treatments.

    “The Creditor Committee’s action recognizes the Ghanaian authorities’ strong reform program, which aims to restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability while laying the foundation for an inclusive recovery.

    “It also signals that further progress is being made under the G20 Common Framework, demonstrating that international partners are ready to work together to help countries resolve their debt issues. This is vital to enable countries such as Ghana to achieve sustainable growth and poverty reduction.”

    Ghana secured a staff-level agreement with the IMF for the $3 billion support package in December. But for the money to be disbursed, the IMF executive board must formally approve it – a step that required prior financing assurances from official creditors.

    “Creditor committee members are committed to negotiating with the Republic of Ghana terms of a restructuring of their claims to be finalised in a Memorandum of Understanding,” the statement posted by the Paris Club of creditor nations on its website.

    Ghana’s finance ministry said on Twitter the government was ready to go to the IMF board. Ghana is negotiating its international debt rework under the Group of 20’s Common Framework platform.

    Its $5.4 billion debt book to official creditors has been earmarked for restructuring, according to government data. The nation is also in talks to rework $14.6 billion of debt to private overseas creditors.

    The country faces a debt overhaul after its already strained finances buckled under the economic fallout from COVID-19 and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    On December 12, 2022, the IMF reached a staff-level agreement with the Ghanaian authorities on a new arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility. Board consideration of Ghana’s program request has been pending financing assurances from Ghana’s official bilateral creditors.

  • NDC Primaries: Police pick up two for attempting to disrupt voting at Ningo-Prampram

    At the New Ningo D/A Basic School B polling station in the Ningo-Prampram constituency, two individuals have been apprehended for their attempt to disrupt the ongoing voting process.

    Per reports from Citinews, the police swiftly intervened and arrested the two individuals to prevent the situation from escalating.

    The arrested individuals were allegedly persuading delegates to vote for their preferred candidate at the New Ningo D/A Basic School B polling station.

    Incumbent Sam George is facing strong competition from Michael Kwetey Tetteh, who narrowly lost in the 2019 parliamentary primaries.

    Despite the challenge, Sam George expressed confidence that the delegates would re-elect him for a third term in the 2024 elections.

  • 10 companies you didn’t know belonged to Aliko Dangote

    10 companies you didn’t know belonged to Aliko Dangote

    Aliko Dangote, the wealthiest individual in Africa, has amassed his $13.6 billion fortune primarily through his holdings in publicly traded companies such as Dangote Cement, Dangote Sugar, and NASCON.

    However, there are lesser-known privately-held companies in his portfolio that contribute significantly to his wealth. Here are ten such companies:

    1. Twister B.V.: Acquired from Shell Technology Ventures Fund in 2016, Twister B.V. is a Netherlands-based company specializing in gas processing solutions for the oil and gas industry, including conditioning systems and engineering services.
    2. Dangote Sinotruk: Established in 2017, this $100-million truck assembly plant in Lagos is a joint venture between Dangote Industries and Chinese company National Heavy Duty Truck Group Company Limited (SINOTRUK). It has the capacity to produce 10,000 trucks annually, with Dangote Group owning a 60% stake and SINOTRUK owning 40%.
    3. Greenview Development Nigeria Limited (GDNL): GDNL is the terminal operating arm of Dangote Group and manages Terminal E of the Lagos Port Complex in Apapa, Lagos.
    4. Dangote Agro Sacks Limited: Dangote Agro Sacks Limited specializes in the production of packaging bags for goods manufactured by Dangote Group companies. The company operates from multiple factories in Ikeja, Lagos, and Obajana, Kogi State, manufacturing woven, laminated, and A.D. star cement sacks.
    5. Bluestar Shipping Lines: Established in 1996, Bluestar Shipping Lines is an integrated shipping, freight forwarding, and stevedoring company. It offers comprehensive maritime services globally, including vessel berthing, sailing, and break bulk operations.
    6. Saipem Dangote E&C: Saipem Dangote E&C is a construction company formed through a partnership between Saipem, an Italian multinational oilfield services company, and Dangote Industries Limited. The company specializes in executing complex engineering and construction projects in Africa.
    7. Integrated Steel PLC: Integrated Steel PLC, previously known as Oshogbo Steel Rolling Mills, was acquired by Dangote over a decade ago. It is involved in the production of steel bars and rods, with a yearly capacity of 400,000 metric tons. The company manufactures plain and ribbed bars using billets.
    8. DIL Power Limited: DIL Power Limited operates the Dangote Oil Fired Power Plant, a 400MW oil-fired power project.
    9. Dangote Granite Mines Limited: Dangote Granite Mines Limited is a subsidiary of the Dangote Group and operates a large-scale granite mine in Ogun State, Nigeria.
    10. Dangote Coal Mines Limited: Dangote Coal Mines Limited (DCM) is a mining company engaged in coal extraction from various locations in Kogi, Nigeria.
  • NDC Primaries: My victory is assured, it is resounding – Sam George

    NDC Primaries: My victory is assured, it is resounding – Sam George

    Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, is optimistic of a clear victory in the National Democratic Congress’ primaries happening today.

    Incumbent MP Sam George and businessman Michael Tetteh Kwetey are competing for the position.

    The voting process started at 8 a.m., with an expected total of 1675 delegates participating.

    Ahead of the elections, Mr Nartey George said “resounding victory. This is going to be one of the best elections I’ve had.”

    The MP has been a loud advocate for the anti-LGBT bill currently in parliament, and according to him, he represents the light and the light will prevail over darkness.

    “I am fighting for the protection of our culture, our values and to make sure that our children are protected and that is what I represent. The other side cannot speak to these matters because for them their hands are tainted.

    “They are in bed with all manner of people. Like I said, Saturday will be a clear testament to everybody in this country that the forces of light will prevail over the forces of darkness.”

  • NDC Primaries: Serene ambience at Adentan as voting commences

    NDC Primaries: Serene ambience at Adentan as voting commences

    Voting has commenced at the Adentan constituency as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) kicks off its parliamentary and presidential primaries.

    Over 2,700 delegates are expected to exercise their voting rights at the De Youngsters School Center, with some already casting their votes.

    The race for the Adentan seat is highly competitive, featuring three strong contenders. Incumbent Member of Parliament Mohammed Adamu Ramadan faces formidable opposition from former Minister of Gender Nana Oye Bampoe Addo and dynamic youth activist Linda Awuni.

    Each candidate has expressed confidence in their ability to secure victory.

    The Adentan constituency holds a distinctive record of not re-electing a political party for more than one term in parliament, adding further intrigue to the contest.

    Despite the intense competition, the voting process has been proceeding smoothly, and the entire exercise is anticipated to conclude peacefully.

  • NDC Primaries: Voting in Asawase delayed over alleged camping of delegates

    NDC Primaries: Voting in Asawase delayed over alleged camping of delegates

    Voting by delegates in the Asawase Constituency as part of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) primaries has hit a snag.

    Per reports, delegates are being camped, hence the delay.

    “…We have not started voting, and you know the Asawase delegates are aged, they are been refused access to seat on a chair, so they are sitting on the floor. The incumbent MP has also camped delegates and they are not here. We just don’t know why they haven’t started voting, no communication, nothing,” Ghanaweb reports.

    Also, some elderly delegates have been compelled to sit on the floor, as they have been denied access to the chairs at the voting center.

    Although the voting area has been set up for the process, it has not yet begun, and there is a lack of communication regarding the reasons for the delay.

    One of Ghana’s longest-serving members of parliament, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka is seeking to serve the members of his constituency for the sixth time.

    Masawudu Mubarak a businessman is hoping to unseat the five-time MP.

  • NDC Primaries: Voting in Ningo-Prampram begins

    NDC Primaries: Voting in Ningo-Prampram begins

    Voting has begun in the Ningo-Prampram constituency as delegates choose their next Member of Parliament.

    Incumbent MP Sam George and businessman Michael Tetteh Kwetey are competing for the position. The voting process started at 8 a.m., with an expected total of 1675 delegates participating.

    Delegates are arriving at the voting center in STC buses and casting their votes in an orderly and peaceful manner.

    Security personnel are present to ensure a secure environment. Sam George is actively involved, assisting delegates and expressing confidence in his chances of winning based on trust in his supporters.

    “…I absolutely truth my delegates. Some of them came last night refused to go back home, and slept. We stayed up and had praise and worship. Some came in the morning at 4 am for me it is an indication that the 9th parliament I have the responsibility to deliver the best Sam George has ever delivered,” he told the media.

    In 2019, the Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament Sam Nartey George won the parliamentary ticket to contest the seat again for the National Democratic Congress in the 2020 race.

    He won with a slight margin of seven. He was able to pull 407 votes while his contender Micheal Kwetey had 400 votes. Two ballots were rejected out of a total of 809.

  • All to know about NDC’s Primaries

    All to know about NDC’s Primaries

    Over 356,000 delegates are expected to participate in the National Democratic Congress‘ (NDC) primaries happening today.

    The internal elections to select a presidential candidate and parliamentary aspirants which started at 7am is scheduled to end at 4pm.

    Each voting center has been limited to utmost 1200 delegates. There is a total of 420 voting centers across the country.

    Currently, just two individuals are vying for the flagbearership position. They are former President John Dramani Mahama and former Kumasi Mayor, Kojo Bonsu.

    The number reduced to two after former Finance Minister Dr Kwabena Duffuor withdrew from the race on Friday evening over alleged inaccuracies with the party’s voters register. He earlier filed an interlocutory injunction against the primaries but later pulled out the case.

    275 constituencies will take part in the presidential elections while 259 constituencies partake in the parliamentary elections.

    Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), announced that 47 parliamentary aspirants have already been declared candidates for the upcoming 2024 general elections.

    These candidates applied to represent the party and were unopposed, subsequently passing the vetting process.

    According to the NDC rules, they have been granted a direct pass to the 2024 elections. As a result, parliamentary primaries will not take place in the constituencies of these 47 candidates, as they are already considered elected candidates.

    North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Isaac Adjei Mensah, Wassa East MP, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, MP for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam, Charles Agbeve, Agotime-Ziope MP are among the unopposed candidates.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Businesses urged to pursue partnership to bolster economic growth

    Businesses urged to pursue partnership to bolster economic growth

    Local businesses across the country have been advised to pursue partnerships and joint ventures to increase their chances of excelling in their various industries.

    The General Manager in Charge of Business at Tecno Mobile Ghana, Daniel Glover, said pursuing partnerships allowed all parties involved to fully explore areas where they had the most competitive advantages, pool them together and make more profits than they would have individually.

    “There is a lesson that I want us to learn from this and it is that in Ghana and Africa, we can also trust one another and be transparent with one another and if we do, we can also attain great heights and make giant strides in the world of industry,” he added. 

    Mr Glover said that at the launch of the company’s new line of smartphones; the “Camon 20 Series” in Accra in collaboration with telecommunication giants MTN.

    Present at the event were a Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Michael Okyere Baafi; Musician and Brand Ambassador of the Tecno, Stonbwoy and the Chairman of the Mobile Phones Dealers Association, Joseph Osei Agyemang, among other industry players.

    A Senior Manager for commercial planning and analytics at MTN, Guido Sopiimeh, commended the company for continuing to develop products aimed at improving the lives and addressing the device needs of Ghanaians.

    Mr Sopiimeh, therefore, reaffirmed MTN’s position to continue its partnership with Tecno to develop devices to connect Ghana and Africa to the world by increasing smartphone penetration in the country and across the continent.

    “MTN’s partnership with original smartphone manufacturers like Tecno is anchored on its strategic vision to lead digital solutions for Africa’s great and rooted in our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life”, he stressed. 

    As part of the launch, Stonebwoy, Mr Agyemang and 38 Tecno dealer companies were honoured with citations and a Camon 20 mobile phone for their commitment to the brand over the years.

    The Camon 20 series of phones boast a sleek, modern design and a buttery-soft texture, which is easy to clean with waterproof, heat, cold, stain and abrasion-resistant benefits among a range of advanced features. 

  • Asiedu Nketiah accused of taking sides in NDC flagbearership race

    Asiedu Nketiah accused of taking sides in NDC flagbearership race

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Director of Elections, Evans Nimako, has raised concerns about the internal challenges within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in preparation for its presidential and parliamentary primaries on May 13.

    In an interview with Okay FM on May 11, 2023, Evans Nimako accused the party’s Chairman, Asiedu Nketiah popularly known as General Mosquito of displaying a bias against one of the former presidential aspirants, Dr. Kwabena Duffour.

    “If they will take time and settle their house matter, I think it will help them, but I don’t believe that the position that the national chairman has taken helps because as a national chairman, you are supposed to be neutral and listen to both sides and decide on the appropriate solution. But what he (Asiedu Nketiah) is doing, it is like he has taken sides against Duffuor.

    “Someone who has been your finance minister before and you people also believe that he is one of the financiers of the party, but now you are accusing him of being a bad person, it is up to them,” he added.

    Evans Nimako urged the party to seek guidance from the NPP if they lack an understanding of resolving such situations.

    “For us the New Patriotic Party, we wish them well and if they will look at what we are doing and learn from us, it will help them. I will plead, all of us go to the IPAC meetings, so, if there is something, they can feel free and consult us and we are also ready to help them out,” he said.

    On Friday evening, Dr Duffuor announced his withdrawal from the presidential race.

    He attributed his decision to some inaccuracies with the voters register.

    Prior to that, he withdrew his interlocutory injunction application filed at an Accra High Court to suspend the primaries happening today.

  • Ghana Boundary Commission begin 3-week exercise with Togolese counterpart to fix boundary line

    Ghana Boundary Commission begin 3-week exercise with Togolese counterpart to fix boundary line


    A joint technical committee consisting of representatives from the Ghana Boundary Commission and the Land Boundary Commission of Togo has commenced a three-week operation to locate and replace damaged or destroyed boundary pillars along the international border between the two countries.

    Major General Emmanuel Kotia, the National Coordinator of the Ghana Boundary Commission, emphasized the significance of this reaffirmation exercise in preventing land boundary disputes during a community sensitization program held jointly by Ghana and Togo in Agortime-Kpetoe, Volta Region.

    “The Joint Technical Committee will be identifying all tampered, removed or destroyed boundary pillars within the demarcated line. We are not going to re-demarcate the boundary. In addition to this, we have realized that most of the residents in the border communities have difficulty locating where the boundary line is.

    Ghana Boundary Commission and Togolese counterpart begin re-affirmation of land boundaries
    Major General Emmanuel Kotia

    “We will be discussing with our counterpart from Togo to introduce additional boundary pillars which will be intermediary pillars, border crossing pillars and monumental pillars along towns so that it will be easier for the residents to identify the boundary line and also help us protect the boundary line”.

    He urged residents to cooperate with the team that will be engaged in the exercise.

    “We will need help from the traditional leaders, opinion leaders to educate the population in the border community that they will see a team going around the boundary lines within the next three weeks. They should cooperate with them. They should give them the necessary support,” he said.

    The Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in charge of Forestry, Benito Owusu-Bio said most of the Boundary markings that define the land boundary between Ghana and Togo among others have been destroyed.

    “The fact remains that most of the boundary markings that define the land boundaries between Ghana and Togo have been displaced due to several factors such as erosion, tampering or outright removals”.

    Ghana Boundary Commission and Togolese counterpart begin re-affirmation of land boundaries
    Benito Owusu-Bio

    He also commended the Ghana Boundary Commission and the National Coordinator for the tremendous work to secure Ghana’s boundaries.

    He said, “Major General just yesterday I received a letter from the President of the Republic of Ghana congratulating you for the good work you are doing, kindly continue with that work. Because the good work you are doing is there for everyone to see”.

    Head of the Land Boundary Commision of Togo Dr, Lardja Douti who spoke through an interpreter said he is excited about the three week exercise. Volta Regional Minister Dr. Archibald Letsa said the Ghana Boundary Commission continues to brief his office about the commission’s activities in the region.

    “We are always briefed by Major General Kotia and his team about all their activities. So we are part of all they have been doing, they have our maximum support”

    Member of Parliament for Agortime Ziope, Charles Agbeve said the residents have a role to play in ensuring a successful exercise.

  • Anas slapped with GHS100k fine in land ‘fraud’ case

    Anas slapped with GHS100k fine in land ‘fraud’ case

    Anas Aremeyaw Anas has been fined GHS 100,000 by a High Court in Accra for land-grabbing, unlawful trespassing, and the use of land guards to intimidate the rightful landowner, Adolf Tetteh Adjei.

    The court, presided over by Justice Kwame Gyamfi Osei, found Anas guilty of trespassing and constructing on the land illegally while employing police and land guards to prevent the plaintiff from accessing the land.

    Anas defended himself by alleging that Adjei’s claim of ownership was tainted by fraud.

    The court after examination of all of the facts concluded that “The law would not permit anyone to allege fraud without proving same beyond reasonable doubt. One would also not be permitted to win the sympathy of the court by alleging fraud against his adversary without proving same beyond reasonable doubt.”

    Numerous times, Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ work, character have been questioned

    The land owner, the said Adolf Tetteh said the disputed parcel of land is covered by Land Title Certificate No. GA. 464555 and dated 26 February 2015 and added a copy of the Title Certificate and the indenture covering the land to the court.

    Adolf Tetteh informed the court his Sub-lessor has also always been in effective possession of the land and had registered it in 2007 under Land Title Certificate No. GA26393.

    The Sub-lessor also acquired the land with Title Certificate No. GA 19310 with photocopies of the said Land Title Certificate No. GA 19310 and Land Title Certificate No. GA 25462 all presented in court.

    Adolf Tetteh said Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ claim of customary grant of the land to him by a certain Ga family was “merely a ploy to deceive the court”.

    The Plaintiff told the court that Anas showed up one day and “caused a signpost to be erected on the land with the inscription “Tiger Eye Property. Keep off” and also employed the services of land guards to purportedly provide security for his unlawful construction works.”

    High Court’s decision has shown my assertions regarding Anas Aremeyaw – Nyantakyi

    Court Ruling

    The court ordered Anas Aremeyaw Anas to vacate the disputed land and to pay Ghs60,000 in general damages and Ghs40,000 in legal cost to Adolf Tetteh who adduced evidence to prove he acquired the land legally and was about to build when Anas Aremeyaw Anas showed up.

    The court said it was perpetually restraining Anas Aremeyaw Anas, “his servants, agents, assigns, workmen and all those claiming through him from entering, carrying out any construction works or interfering with all that piece or parcel of land in any manner whatsoever or disturbing the Plaintiff’s peaceful occupation and possession of same”

    Tiger Eye P.I Property Controversy In Court

    Anas Aremeyaw Anas filed a motion to oppose the inclusion of Tiger Eye P.I in the suit as it was not an owner of the property but the plaintiff resisted and said Tiger Eye P.I should be in the suit.

    Adolf Tetteh told the court when Anas seized the land in dispute, Anas caused to be erected a signpost on the land saying “Property of Tiger Eye P.I Keep Off”. According to Adolf Tetteh that is why he added the company to the court case because the signpost said his land was being claimed by Tiger Eye.

    The court removed Tiger Eye from the suit while the second defendand sued with Anas failed to enter appearance or show up. The second defendant, Holy Quaye, is the person Anas claimed to have bought the land from.

    “From the evidence, the Plaintiff was in possession of the land until the 1st Defendant blazingly entered same and started construction day and night with the help of the Police and land guards. The structures he erected on the land is clearly unauthorized. Any prudent purchaser is required to do due diligence before acquisition but in this case the 1st Defendant from the evidence did none.

    He entered the land and erected a signpost on the land with the inscription “PROPERTY OF TIGER EYE. KEEP OFF. When an application was brought to join “TIGER EYE PI” to this suit, he resisted claiming the said entity has no interest in the land. His claim to the disputed land has no basis in law and in fact.

    Trespass is an injury against possession, hence the 1st Defendant is liable. In trespass, damages are at large and there would be the need to award damages to commensurate with the circumstances of this case.”

    This is the second time in a matter of weeks in which the court has found the investigative journalist liable for one wrong or the other after another court ruled in favour of Kennedy Agyapong against the journalist.

  • Ghana has overcome the last hurdle in obtaining IMF bailout – Akufo-Addo

    Ghana has overcome the last hurdle in obtaining IMF bailout – Akufo-Addo


    Ghana has cleared the final hurdle for accessing the $3 billion extended credit facility from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), according to President Nana Akufo-Addo.

    This progress allows Ghana to obtain the necessary balance of payments support.

    “Today, we were informed that the last hurdle toward our agreement with the IMF has been overcome,” Mr Akufo-Addo said.

    “The Paris Club met today in Paris in a meeting co-chaired by China and France and have okayed and approved Ghana’s request for an IMF programme,” he said.

    Earlier, the Finance Ministry announced the progress made in a post on Twitter.

    “The Paris Club has, today, established the OCC (co-chaired by China & France). With the granting of financing assurances, Ghana is now ready to go to the IMF Board. Thank you to all our bilateral partners for helping us reach this significant milestone!” Ghana’s finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta tweeted.

    Meanwhile, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund, Ms Kristalina Georgieva, has said: “I welcome the statement from the Official Creditor Committee for Ghana on the importance of an IMF-supported economic programme, together with its commitment to negotiate debt restructuring terms accordingly”.

    “This statement provides the necessary financing assurances for the IMF Executive Board to consider the proposed Fund-supported programme and unlock much-needed financing from Ghana’s development partners,” she said in a statement.

    Ms Georgieva noted: “I also strongly endorse the call by the Official Creditor Committee for private creditors and other official bilateral creditors to commit to comparable debt treatments.”

    She added: “The Creditor Committee’s action recognises the Ghanaian authorities’ strong reform programme, which aims to restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability while laying the foundation for an inclusive recovery.”

    “It also signals that further progress is being made under the G20 Common Framework, demonstrating that international partners are ready to work together to help countries resolve their debt issues.”

    “This is vital to enable countries such as Ghana achieve sustainable growth and poverty reduction”, she acknowledged.

    The IMF reached a staff-level agreement with Ghana in December last year.

    Ghana undertook a domestic debt exchange programme followed by a restructuring of its external debts with China and the Paris Club.

    The financing assurances from the Asian giant and the Club have been the only stumbling block to Ghana getting a Board approval from the IMF.

    Ghana’s economy has been in the doldrums for the past two years.

    The IMF’s extended credit facility is intended to give Ghana some credit worthiness so the country could return to the international capital market.

  • Ablakwa, 46 other NDC aspirants secure parliamentary candidacy ahead of primaries

    Ablakwa, 46 other NDC aspirants secure parliamentary candidacy ahead of primaries

    During a press conference on Friday, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), announced that 47 parliamentary aspirants have already been declared candidates for the upcoming 2024 general elections.

    These candidates applied to represent the party and were unopposed, subsequently passing the vetting process.

    According to the NDC rules, they have been granted a direct pass to the 2024 elections. As a result, parliamentary primaries will not take place in the constituencies of these 47 candidates, as they are already considered elected candidates.

    “We have 47 aspirants who have already been declared candidates for our 2024 elections. We have seen other places where people are contesting unopposed candidates by going to court to seek an injunction to prevent the parliamentary elections. There is not going to be parliamentary elections in those places because our candidates have already been elected by law,” Mr Asiedu noted.

    Among them is North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

    Meanwhile, the NDC Chairman said the primaries would not be conducted in 16 constituencies, stating that these constituencies need special attention.

    He said that “the party’s preparation in those constituencies is not complete, so, we have decided to put them on hold. After the main elections, we will appraise each constituency and deal with the specific issues there to pave the way for the elections.”

    The NDC primaries will proceed as planned on Saturday. This decision comes after Dr. Kwabena Duffour, a flagbearer hopeful, withdrew the lawsuit he filed against the party on May 9.

    Dr. Duffour cited discrepancies in the party’s voters’ register as the reason for his team’s withdrawal. The Accra High Court had previously dismissed Dr. Duffour’s injunction application after his lawyers chose to withdraw the case.

  • Ato Essien’s fate to be decided on May 17

    Ato Essien’s fate to be decided on May 17

    The high court, under the direction of Justice Eric Kyei Baffour, has scheduled May 17, 2023, to decide on the Attorney General’s request for a custodial sentence against William Ato Essien, the former CEO of Capital Bank.

    This follows the court’s rejection of Ato Essien’s application to renegotiate with the Attorney General.

    Ato Essien had violated the terms of an agreement that allowed him to avoid imprisonment by committing to repay ¢90 million to the state.

    He failed to meet the payment deadline of ¢20 million by April 28, 2023, after making an initial payment of ¢34 million.

    In light of his non-compliance, the Attorney General stated that they have no option but to seek a custodial sentence through legal proceedings.

    But the lawyers of Ato Essien, however, disagreed, asking the court to give meaning to the law allowing such an agreement.

    Lead Counsel, Thaddeus Sory insisted the aim was to ensure recovery, while indicating that the businessman has simply come into some financial difficulty hence the inability to meet the terms of the agreement.

    “Let’s take a pragmatic look at this. We are urging section 10(4) of the interpretation act which requires the court to read every statute and take into account the purpose of the statute in interpreting an Act.

    “We have attached an agreement which shows the inflows that were to come in.

    “We also want to draw the court’s attention to the fact that the instant proceedings are proceedings to execute the judgement of the court which is intended to execute the judgement of the court which convicted the accused person.

    “The court has inherent power in any situation to suspend execution of its powers if there is good reason to. We are drawing the court’s attention to Article 126(4) of the 1992 constitution.

    “My lord has residual power in so far as the final orders are concerned. You have the power to issue further directions,” he stated.

    Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah however insisted that the custodial sentence had become necessary.

    “An accused person must respect the sanctity of his own agreement. That is the spirit behind section 35. In this particular case, the convict has breached his own agreement.

    “He has come to the end of the road. Accordingly, the invitation to this court to stay proceedings and grant leave to the convict to renegotiate with the prosecution is a dangerous invitation and must be declined.

    “The grant of this application will rather send a dangerous signal to other persons that they can come to the court, agree on specific terms, breach those terms and come back to the court for an extension.

    “The state is not interested in renegotiating with the accused person. It will, therefore, serve no useful purpose in staying proceedings for the state to undertake an activity it is not willing to do,” Mr Yeboah stated.

    Justice Eric Kyei Baffuor dismissed the application saying it was urging the court to interpret the law.

    “First, being a convict before the court, I think mens rea is a requirement in a criminal trial before conviction. The stage at which we are is one of a consideration for the imposition of a custodial sentence and I do not think that the claim for the court to find the mens rea at this stage is well made. We have gone beyond that stage.

    “I have also been called upon to apply or interpret section 35 of Act 459, purposively but not literally. Purposivism is not a blanket cheque to the judge to read into and import into the text of the statutory provision any imaginary or fanciful strained interpretation.

    “I, therefore, fail to see the invitation by learned counsel in respect of the approach to the proper construction of section 35.

    “I do not find it necessary to exhaustively respond to the issue of the amount paid by the convict and what should happen. I will deal with that in the motion of the Republic,” he said.

  • Fresh injunction application against NDC primaries discontinued

    Fresh injunction application against NDC primaries discontinued

    A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) who had filed an injunction application in the High Court to halt the party’s upcoming primaries has decided to withdraw the case.

    Edgar Asamoah Boateng had sought the suspension of the May 13 presidential and parliamentary primaries, citing concerns about the unavailability of a voters’ register for his representatives and other aspirants, including presidential candidates.

    The plaintiff claimed that the absence of a comprehensive list of qualified voters has led to increased tension and discord within the party.

    Dr. Kwabena Duffour’s injunction application against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the party’s presidential and parliamentary primaries has been struck out by the Accra High Court.

    The decision came after Dr. Duffour’s lawyers requested to withdraw the case. His campaign team had raised concerns about not receiving an accurate list of eligible participants for the May 13 polls.

    During the court hearing, there was no opposition from the NDC’s legal team or the Electoral Commission (EC). The NDC’s General Secretary has stated that preparations for tomorrow’s elections are complete.

  • IMF bailout: Ghana receives financial assurance from Paris Club, China

    IMF bailout: Ghana receives financial assurance from Paris Club, China

    On Friday, May 12, the Paris Club announced that it has together with China agreed to provide the necessary debt assurances to support Ghana’s request for balance of payment assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    A committee that was co-chaired by France and China as bilateral lenders was set up.

    The creditor committee examined the macroeconomic and financial situation of Ghana, including its long-term debt sustainability, and its formal request for a debt treatment under the “Common Framework for Debt Treatments beyond the DSSI” endorsed under the Saudi G20 Presidency in November 2020, which was also endorsed by the Paris Club.

    “The creditor committee supports Ghana’s envisaged IMF upper credit tranche (UCT) program and its swift adoption by the IMF Executive Board to address Ghana’s urgent financing needs. The creditor committee encourages Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to maximize their support for Ghana to meet its long-term financial needs,” the statement said.

    They have called upon private creditors and other official bilateral creditors to promptly commit to Ghana’s agreement without any further delays.

    “Consequently, the creditor committee urges private creditors and other official bilateral creditors to commit without delay to negotiate with Ghana such debt treatments that are crucial to ensure the full effectiveness of the debt treatment for Ghana under the Common Framework,” excerpts of the statement added. 

    Consequently, the Finance Ministry has taken to Twitter to express gratitude to all who have supported Ghana’s cause.

    “The Paris Club has today established the OCC (co-chaired by China & France). With the granting of Financing Assurances, Ghana is now ready to go to the IMF Board. Thank you to all our bilateral partners for helping us reach this significant milestone! #ResolvingTogether.”

    Ghana secures Paris Club financing assurance for $3bn IMF bailout
  • Electoral Directorate to take full charge of Primaries in EC’s absence – NDC

    Electoral Directorate to take full charge of Primaries in EC’s absence – NDC

    General Secretary for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey has noted that should the Electoral Commission (EC) be unable to supervise its upcoming Primaries, its Electoral Directorate will take charge of matters.

    He made this known on Friday while addressing the press in less than 24 hours to the much awaited Presidential and Parliamentary elections.

    “If for any reason the Electoral Commission is unable to be present tomorrow to supervise this election, the Elections Directorate of the NDC will take full charge,” he said.

    The Functional Executive Committee of the party on behalf of the National Executive Committee of the party passed this resolution.

    The Electoral Commission earlier announced that it would not be supervising the party’s parties due to an injunction application filed by one of the presidential candidates, Dr Kwabena Duffuor.

    But on Friday morning, Dr Duffuor withdrew his injunction application. However, few hours later, it was reported that a fresh injunction has been filed by one Edgar Asamoah Boateng but that has also been discontinued.

    EC refuses to supervise NDC primaries over legal issues

    The EC is yet to comment on the recent happenings so far. The Electoral Commission is mandated to enforce and administer all laws and regulations relative to the conduct of elections and referendums.

    Over 356,000 voters expected to participate in the upcoming primaries which will start from 7am and end at 4pm.

    Each voting center has been limited to utmost 1200 delegates. There is a total of 420 voting centers across the country.

    275 constituencies will take part in the presidential elections while 259 constituencies partake in the parliamentary elections.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Archbishop of Canterbury fined over £500 for speeding

    Archbishop of Canterbury fined over £500 for speeding


    The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has been fined over £500 and received three penalty points on his driving license for exceeding the speed limit in London.

    Last year, he was recorded driving at 25mph in a 20mph zone while traveling to his official residence at Lambeth Palace in his Volkswagen Golf.

    The 67-year-old admitted the offense in writing and was sentenced at a private hearing in a magistrates’ court.

    The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, was prosecuted through the single justice procedure after being caught by a speed camera on October 2.

    He pleaded guilty online and was ordered by the Lavender Hill Magistrates’ Court to pay a £300 fine, a £120 victim surcharge, and £90 in legal costs. Additionally, three penalty points were added to his driving license.

    The archbishop, who appeared at the House of Lords on the same day to criticize the government’s Illegal Migration Bill, was unaware that the case would be dealt with in court, according to a spokesperson from Lambeth Palace.

    The spokesperson said: “He has tried to resolve this and pay the fine three times. He has all the paperwork to prove that he has tried to pay.

    “Admin errors seem to be causing problems.”

  • NDC addresses press on fresh injunction against primaries

    NDC addresses press on fresh injunction against primaries

    The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) held a press conference to address challenges likely to face its primaries slated for Saturday, May 13, 2023.

    On Friday morning, Dr Kwabena Duffuor, a presidential aspirant withdrew his injunction application to have the party’s presidential and parliamentary election suspended.

    Few hours later, it emerged that another injunction application has been filed against the party by one Edgar Asamoah Boateng. Per reports, that injunction has been discontinued.

  • Ghana’s creditors to give financing assurance to aid approval of $3bn IMF bailout – report

    Ghana’s creditors to give financing assurance to aid approval of $3bn IMF bailout – report

    Sources say Ghana’s official creditors are close to granting financial assurance to enable the West African country obtain a credit facility worth $3 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    Reports from Reuters indicate that a committee which will be co-chaired by France and China as bilateral lenders are expected to officially grant financing assurances as soon as Friday.

    It is reported that Ghana’s request for a credit facility might be approved next week should headway be made.

    In a news briefing on Thursday, IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack said the Fund is hopeful its executive board can quickly consider the Ghana program once enough official bilateral creditor assurances have been secured.

    “We have seen strong progress toward creditors delivering on these financing assurances and we’re hopeful that they can be delivered very rapidly,” Kozack said.

    Earlier in April, Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta revealed that Ghana was likely to receive the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Board approval for a $3 billion bailout by the close of May 2023.

    As Ghana struggles through its economic crisis, defaulting on its debt in December and completing a debt restructuring in February, the IMF bailout is expected to ease her economic burdens.

    Ghana is also in talks to rework $14.6 billion of debt to private overseas creditors.

  • GIPC recognised for Best Investment Project in West, Central Africa

    GIPC recognised for Best Investment Project in West, Central Africa

    The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) has been acknowledged for its exceptional efforts in promoting investment opportunities and driving economic growth in Ghana.

    During the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) held in Abu Dhabi, the GIPC achieved second place for the best investment project in West and Central Africa, highlighting the Centre’s strong commitment in this field.

    Having established a solid partnership with the AIM Congress over the years, the GIPC has consistently been recognized as the best Investment Promotion Agency (IPA) in Central and West Africa from 2016 to 2021. Additionally, in 2022, it earned the runner-up position for the best IPA in Africa.

    This recognition further underscores the GIPC’s dedication to attracting investments and fostering a favorable business environment in Ghana.

    In 2023, GIPC has once again maintained its strong position in the region, securing second place for the best investment project in West and Central Africa.

    AIM Congress is a globally renowned conference that brings together investors, entrepreneurs, and government representatives from around the world. The event serves as a comprehensive platform for various sectors to engage in open discussions on the latest investment trends and opportunities.

    AIM fosters an environment conducive to idea exchange and facilitates potential partnerships, unlocking new avenues of collaboration and growth for participants.

    Commenting on the award, Yofi Grant, the Chief Executive Officer of GIPC, expressed his appreciation, stating, “We are deeply honored to have been recognized as securing one of the best investment projects in West and Central Africa at the Annual Investment Meeting. This award is a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating a business-friendly climate in Ghana and promoting lucrative investment opportunities in the country.”

    Furthermore, Mr. Grant acknowledged the efforts of the GIPC team, partners, and investors for their support in achieving this remarkable feat. Their collaboration and effort according to him has been instrumental in paving the way for sustainable economic development in Ghana, attracting significant investments, and nurturing a favorable environment for businesses to thrive.

    Also, during the AIM Congress, the GIPC, under the leadership of its CEO, successfully concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Namibian Investment Promotion and Development Board, represented by CEO Ms. Nangula Shejavali.

    An agreement has been established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between two agencies, namely the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), represented by Secretary General Wamkele Mene, and the UAE Trade Center, represented by Chief Executive Officer Walid Hareb Al Falahi.

    This agreement sets the framework for collaboration between the two entities, focusing specifically on investment promotion and facilitation.

    Notably, they have committed to jointly organizing a series of side events during COP 28 in Abu Dhabi, slated for November. The signing of the MoU signifies an important milestone in their partnership and shared objectives.

    These events will include dedicated business forums designed to facilitate interactions between UAE and African businesses, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.

    Additionally, dialogue sessions will be conducted to deepen understanding and awareness of the AfCFTA, ensuring that stakeholders are wellinformed about the potential benefits and opportunities it presents.

    The events will cover crucial topics such as trade facilitation, incentives offered by the AfCFTA, cost-effective logistics, and strategies to empower UAE businesses under the agreement. This joint initiative promises to strengthen trade opportunities and enhance economic ties between the UAE and Africa.

  • Rihanna and A$AP Rocky reveal name of baby boy

    Rihanna and A$AP Rocky reveal name of baby boy

    According to sources, the official birth certificate revealed Rihanna and A$AP Rocky have named their first child RZA Athelston Mayers.

    It appears that the name RZA is a tribute to Robert Fitzgerald Diggs, the leader of the Wu-Tang Clan.

    The baby boy’s middle name, Athelston, honors his father, Rakim Athelaston Mayers. The birth certificate also confirms that RZA was born on May 13, 2022.

    Clues about the name choice were evident as Rihanna was seen wearing Wu-Tang Clan and RZA merchandise after the birth of her son.

    Three months post-delivery, she donned a vintage RZA concert t-shirt paired with a black jean miniskirt and matching thigh-high slouchy denim boots.

    In recent photographs taken in Paris, the “Diamonds” singer was spotted carrying her little boy while wearing a Wu-Tang Clan shirt.

    Rihanna, who is currently pregnant with her second child, spoke about the joys of motherhood with British Vogue in February.

    “It’s everything,” she said of being a mom. “You really don’t remember life before, that’s the craziest thing ever. You literally try to remember it—and there are photos of my life before—but the feeling, the desires, the things that you enjoy, everything, you just don’t identify with it because you don’t even allow yourself mentally to get that far, because…Because it doesn’t matter.”

  • How 2 convicts serving 7-year jail term each attempted to steal ‘pragyia’ 

    How 2 convicts serving 7-year jail term each attempted to steal ‘pragyia’ 

    Two individuals, Blessing Yeboah (19), a driver’s mate, and Isaac Ofosu (25), a mason apprentice, have been sentenced to seven years each with hard labor by the Dormaa-Ahenkro Circuit Court.

    They were found guilty of conspiracy to commit a crime and stealing a Bajaj tricycle valued at GH₵35,000.00.

    Both defendants pleaded guilty to the charges with an explanation, but the court, presided over by Mr. Osei Kofi Amoako, convicted them based on their own admission.

    According to Police Inspector Emmanuel Asare, the complainant, a tricycle rider residing in Koraso, a village near Dormaa-Ahenkro, reported the theft of his green Bajaj tricycle with registration number M-22-BA-109 on Thursday, May 4, 2023. Yeboah, the first accused, lived in Dormaa-Ahenkro, while Ofosu, the second accused, resided in Amangoase, Berekum.

    The complainant reported the incident to the police, who provided him with an extract to announce the theft on local radio stations.

    He said later, the Dormaa-Ahenkro Police received information from Wamfie Police that they had intercepted a Bajaj tricycle with the above-mentioned registration number and also arrested the convicts who were on board.  

    P/Insp. Asare stated that the Police accompanied by the complainant went to the place, saying the latter identified the tricycle as his and convicts were therefore re-arrested and detained for investigation.  

    He explained that the investigation revealed the convicts refused to stop at the Wamfie Police checkpoint and when the Police chased them, and escaped into a nearby bush, leaving behind the tricycle but were eventually apprehended.   

    P/Insp. Asare said during interrogations, the convicts admitted the offences and were accordingly charged and brought before the Court. 

  • You have effectively used Ghana’s natural resources – Lands Minister lauds Akufo-Addo

    You have effectively used Ghana’s natural resources – Lands Minister lauds Akufo-Addo

    Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has expressed his appreciation to President Akufo-Addo for his leadership in the management and utilization of Ghana’s natural resources.

    During the Natural Resources Dialogue held in Accra on Thursday, the Minister highlighted various measures implemented by the government to ensure effective resource management.

    “As always, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is grateful to the President of the Republic, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for the extraordinary leadership demonstrated in the management and utilisation of our natural resources,” Mr. Jinapor said.

    These initiatives include enhancing local content and participation in the mining sector, expanding the Local Procurement List to encompass more goods and services reserved for Ghanaians, collaborating with the Ghana Chamber of Mines and the Securities and Exchange Commission to encourage large-scale mining companies to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange, and revitalizing the Obuasi mine.

    According to the minister, three new large-scale mining operations, including Newmont Ahafo North in the Ahafo Region, Azumah Resources in the Upper West Region, and Cardinal Namdini in the Upper East Region, will start production within the next two years and contribute significantly to the country’s economy.

    President-Akufo-Addo-and-Lands-Minister-Samuel-Abu-Jinapor-at-the-Natural-Resources-Dialogue

    In addition, Mr. Jinapor disclosed that a technical committee is in the final stages of preparing a policy document concerning the exploration, management, and utilization of green minerals, including lithium, in Ghana.

    The document will be presented to the Cabinet for consideration. The objective is to ensure that the country retains the value chain for these minerals and other future resources within its borders.

    Regarding the forestry sector, the Minister highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the Ghana Forest Plantation Strategy and the Green Ghana Project. These programs have contributed to the cultivation of approximately 690,000 hectares of forest between 2017 and 2022.

    Minister Jinapor said that the dialogue was aimed at discussing how to manage and utilize the country’s natural resources responsibly and sustainably. 

    The first day of the Natural Resources Stakeholder Dialogue ended with a call for all stakeholders to work together to manage and utilize Ghana’s natural resources responsibly and sustainably for the collective good of all.”

  • Reduce policy rate before calling banks to check lending rate – Prof Bokpin to BoG

    Reduce policy rate before calling banks to check lending rate – Prof Bokpin to BoG

    Prof. Godfred Bokpin, a finance lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School, believes that it might be premature for commercial banks in Ghana to lower their lending rates in direct response to the recent decline in inflation rates.

    Bokpin’s viewpoint comes after the Bank of Ghana urged commercial banks in the country to decrease their lending rates, given the ongoing decrease in inflation figures.

    While Bokpin acknowledges the positive nature of this call, he emphasizes the significance of the Bank of Ghana’s policy rate and how it may evolve in the upcoming months.

    According to Prof. Godfred Bokpin, if the central bank in Ghana is confident that the disinflation process has taken hold and will decline significantly, it should be reflected in the policy rate and treasury bill rate.

    Bokpin emphasized the importance of three key variables in Ghana’s reference rates: the policy rate, treasury bill rate, and interbank rate.

    He argues that if the lending rate set by the Bank of Ghana for commercial banks does not experience a significant reduction in line with the decrease in inflation, then the central bank lacks the moral authority to expect commercial banks to take greater actions than it is willing to undertake itself.

    “Generally we will say it is a good call but to the extent that it is coming from the Bank of Ghana is even more interesting. The question will be how will bank of Ghana’s policy rate respond in the next couple of months. Because if it is the considered view of the central bank that the process of disinflation has become entrenched and will come down sharply, then that should also reflect in the policy and treasury bill rate.”

    “There are three variables that are very important in the Ghana reference rates coming down. The policy rate, treasury bill rate and the interbank rate. So if the rate at which Bank of Ghana itself will be lending to the commercial banks does not come down drastically to reflect the reduction in inflation, it does not have the moral right to ask commercial banks to do more than it is willing to do.”

    Inflation has dropped to 41.2 percent for the month of April 2023.  This represents a 3.8 percentage point decrease from the 45.0 percent recorded in March 2023.

    This was captured in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) on Wednesday, May 10, 2023.

    Per the data, food inflation also stood at 48.7 and Non- food inflation 35.4 %.

  • We have sorted out Duffuor’s challenges – Fifi Kwetey

    We have sorted out Duffuor’s challenges – Fifi Kwetey

    Fifi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has stated that the requests put forth by Dr. Kwabena Duffuor’s team have been addressed.

    Mr Kwetey explained that the primary demand of the presidential aspirant was for access to a delegates’ list, which has now been resolved.

    He shared this information while responding to questions from journalists at the Accra Court Complex following the hearing of Dr. Duffuor’s case on May 12, 2023.

    “Yes, it’s been satisfied. The delegates’ list is the main, primary document that we are depending on and this list has been ready, made available to all the contestants,” he stated.

    Fifi Kwetey also stated that with that done, they, as a party, concluded ahead of the withdrawal of the case by the lawyers of the former Minister of Finance, that there was no case at all.

    He also expressed his gratitude at the fact that the Duffuor team decided to unilaterally withdraw the case.

    “So, really, as far as we are concerned, there was no case to begin with, but we are happy they decided to withdraw it,” he added.

    Earlier, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor filed a case in court on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, for an interlocutory injunction on the NDC primaries slated for Saturday, May 13, 2023.

    He cited anomalies with the NDC’s electoral album for his suit, following it up with a petition to the Electoral Commission. But on Friday, his lawyers withdrew the injunction case.

  • Who is Twitter’s new CEO?

    Who is Twitter’s new CEO?

    Elon Musk has revealed that he has identified a new chief executive to head Twitter.

    The announcement was made by Musk on the social media platform, which he acquired last year for $44 billion.

    Although he did not disclose the identity of the incoming CEO, Musk stated that “she” would assume the role in six weeks.

    But what is known is that this individual is a woman.

    If Mr Musk has indeed appointed a female executive, it would make her one of the few women to reach the top of a major technology company.

    Women accounted for fewer than 10% of chief executives of tech firms included in America’s 500 biggest companies last year.

    Musk himself will transition to the positions of executive chairman and chief technology officer.

    The decision to appoint a new leader comes amid mounting pressure on Musk to delegate Twitter’s management responsibilities and concentrate on his other ventures.

    Last year, after Twitter users voted for him to step down in an online poll, he said: “No one wants the job who can actually keep Twitter alive.”

    However, although Mr Musk had said he would hand over the reins, it was by no means clear when or even if it would happen.

    Tesla shares rose after the announcement. Mr Musk has previously been accused by shareholders of abandoning Tesla after his takeover of Twitter and damaging the car company’s brand.

    “We ultimately view this as a major step forward with Musk finally reading the room that has been around this Twitter nightmare,” Dan Ives from the investment firm Wedbush Securities said.

    “Trying to balance Twitter, Tesla and SpaceX as CEOs [is] an impossible task that needed to change,” Mr Ives added.

    According to two US media reports, NBCUniversal’s head of advertising Linda Yaccarino was in talks to become the chief executive of Twitter. The Wall Street Journal and Variety cited people familiar with the matter.

    Although Mr Musk has talked about paid subscribers to Twitter Blue, it is advertising that brings in the vast majority of revenue at Twitter.

    The new boss will no doubt seek to improve relationships with advertisers, and smooth their fears over content moderation.

    Mr Musk, a self-proclaimed free speech absolutist, has said he took over Twitter to protect free speech. However, advertisers do not want their content next to misinformation or extremist content.

    He purchased Twitter in October only after a lawsuit forced him to go through with the deal. Upon taking charge, Mr Musk controversially fired thousands of staff in a bid to cut costs at the firm, which has struggled to be profitable.

    In March, Mr Musk said those efforts had paid off and the platform’s finances were improving.

  • Inexperienced 12-year-old paddled canoe that drowned 9 children – Weija-Gbawe MCE

    Inexperienced 12-year-old paddled canoe that drowned 9 children – Weija-Gbawe MCE

    The Chief Executive of the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly, Patrick K.B. Kumor, has revealed that a minor was responsible for operating the canoe that capsized and led to the drowning of nine children in Faana.

    He explained that the adult in charge of the canoe was unwell and unavailable to transport the children across the water. As a result, a 12-year-old boy took over and overloaded the canoe with other children, leading to the tragic accident.

    Mr Kumor shared this information during an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, stating that his office had received reports about the minor’s involvement in the incident.

    “The information we picked is that the boat was overloaded with minors and the person who was paddling it was a twelve year-old-boy who had no experience and was the one controlling the canoe at the time of the incident. The person who often does that was ill and was not available at the moment to assist them.”

    He added that the section where the accident happened is the estuary where the Densu River enters the sea and the current was high in the evening and the 12-year-old not having the experience to control the boat resulted in the accident.

    13-year-old survivor narrates how 8 students died in Weija boat accident

    Mr. Kumor further intimated that a team will visit the bereaved families on Friday, May 12 after which a committee will be set up to find a lasting solution to such accidents in the area.

    “On Friday, a team from the NADMO head office, the regional minister, the two assemblies, and some opinions leaders will be visiting the families, then after, a committee will be put in place to ascertain the lasting solution that needs to be provided for that area and I believe that whatever will be agreed on will be something that will be beneficial to the people of that community.”

  • Dr Duffuor drops injunction case against NDC primaries

    Dr Duffuor drops injunction case against NDC primaries

    Dr Kwabena Duffuor has dropped his legal challenge against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) primaries.

    The former Finance Minister had filed an interlocutory injunction application at the High Court to stop the party from holding its presidential and parliamentary primaries on Saturday, May 13, 2023.

    He claimed that the party had given him an incomplete and inaccurate photo album register of delegates, which could compromise the integrity of the elections.

    He also alleged that some eligible voters had been disenfranchised and that he had not received the register five weeks ahead of the elections as required by the party’s rules.

    He named the party, its General Secretary, its Election Director, his co-aspirants John Mahama and Kojo Bonsu, and the Electoral Commission as defendants in his suit.

    However, on Friday morning, his lawyers announced that they had discontinued the case and withdrawn the injunction application.

    The High Court was expected to hear the case on Friday, but it was struck out following the withdrawal.

    The NDC had rejected Dr Duffuor’s request for a postponement of the primaries and accused him of acting in bad faith.

    The party said it had given him and other aspirants the photo album register on May 4 and that it was credible and reliable.

    The party also said it had verified data from 220 out of 275 constituencies and that it had created an exceptional list of 74,799 voters who could not be verified due to scanty information.

    The withdrawal of the case means that the NDC primaries will go ahead as planned on Saturday, May 13, 2023. The Electoral Commission (EC), which had also earlier pulled out of supervising the elections due to Dr Duffour’s legal pursuit, will now be able to participate in the exercise as expected.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Accra-Tema Motorway ‘dangerous’ as tank truck spills fuel

    Accra-Tema Motorway ‘dangerous’ as tank truck spills fuel

    This morning, on May 12, a fuel tanker truck overturned on the Accra-Tema motorway, approximately 200 meters before the toll booth at the Accra end.

    The accident resulted in fuel being spilled onto the highway.

    The cause of the truck’s overturning is currently unknown. However, the fuel spillage has created a slippery section on the road, endangering pedestrians and motorists and leading to traffic congestion.

    Concerningly, some individuals were observed risking their lives by collecting the spilled fuel using containers.

    Urgent intervention from the security agencies is being urged to prevent a potential disaster.

    Meanwhile, the general public, particularly motorists, are advised to exercise caution when using this section of the road.

  • Only the idiot believes Ronaldo and Georgina will break up – Player’s mum reacts to rumors

    Only the idiot believes Ronaldo and Georgina will break up – Player’s mum reacts to rumors

    Cristiano Ronaldo’s mother, Dolores Averio, has dismissed reports claiming that her son is set to end his relationship with long time partner, Georgina Rodriguez.

    Per reports, the couple is experiencing some hiccups and this might end their relationship.

    According to Dolores Averio, the two love birds are having some challenges which is normal for any couple.

    However, she denied the fact that the duo intend to split up due to their issues.

    “It’s all lies. Every couple argues, but what’s been written is a lie.”

    She is of the view that “the jealous one invents a rumour, the gossipy one spreads it and the idiot believes it.”

    Also, Filipa Castro, Cristiano’s friend, has defended the couple.

    She said: “I can affirm from a 100 percent reliable source that they are as always doing very well. This is just stories, gossip, made up by people who can’t stand Gio. They are a couple who have love to give and give away.”

    Ronaldo, 38, and Rodriguez, 29, have been together for seven years and their relationship has seemed to be growing strong, with their bond on display in Georgina’s Netflix series ‘Soy Georgina.’

  • YouTuber likely to face 20-year jail term for admitting to crashing plane for views

    YouTuber likely to face 20-year jail term for admitting to crashing plane for views

    US prosecutors have stated that a YouTuber who intentionally crashed an airplane for views will plead guilty to obstructing a federal investigation by tampering with the crash site.

    Trevor Jacob, aged 29, uploaded a video of the plane crash on YouTube in December 2021, falsely implying it was an accident.

    The video has garnered over 2.9 million views to date. According to a plea agreement, Jacob admitted to filming the video as part of a product sponsorship agreement. He could potentially face a maximum prison sentence of 20 years.

    The US Department of Justice announced on Thursday that the pilot and skydiver, aged 29, has agreed to plead guilty to one felony charge of destruction and concealment with the intent to obstruct a federal investigation.

    In November 2021, Jacob took off on a solo flight from a Santa Barbara, California airport, equipped with cameras mounted on his plane, a parachute, and a selfie stick

    He “did not intend to reach his destination, but instead planned to eject from his aircraft during the flight and video himself parachuting to the ground and his airplane as it descended and crashed”, the US Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California said.

    Trevor Jacob jumping headfirst out of his plane with the Los Padres mountains beneath him
    Image caption,Mr Jacob ejecting from the plane before the crash

    The plane crashed into the Los Padres National Forest 35 minutes after takeoff. He hiked to the site and recovered the footage.

    Some YouTube viewers were sceptical of the crash, noting that Mr Jacob was already wearing a parachute and made no attempt to land the plane safely.

    He reported the crash to the National Transportation Safety Board, who said he was responsible for preserving the wreckage. According to the plea agreement, Mr Jacob later claimed he did not know the location of the site.

    He did, and returned by helicopter and secured and removed the wreckage, which he later destroyed, the statement says.

    Mr Jacob is expected to make his initial court appearance in the coming weeks.

    His pilot’s licence was revoked last year.

  • Babies are coming out without genitalia, other deformities due to galamsey – Pathologist

    Babies are coming out without genitalia, other deformities due to galamsey – Pathologist

    Children born in areas prone to illegal mining experience cognitive impairment and physical deformities according to Prof. Paul Poku Sampene Ossei, an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology at the School of Medical Sciences, KNUST, and a Consultant Pathologist at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

    He noted that this is due to the extensive utilization of heavy metals in gold extraction conducted by galamsey operators.

    Common metals used in the extraction of gold, including mercury, cyanide, and lead are inhaled and ingested into the bloodstream of the miners and residents of mining communities.

    Children and infants can absorb up to 50% of these heavy metals when they inhale these substances or eat food contaminated by these heavy metals. Adults have the capacity to absorb 15-20 per cent of the metals, he said.

    Due to this, babies conceived come out with one eye, or have their genitalia missing. He noted that their brains are not able to function properly.

    “The placenta of a pregnant woman has a high affinity for lead. So if such a woman lives in a galamsey area, her baby will certainly have deformities when born. The first thing that affects these babies when they are infected by these toxins is cognitive impairment; their brains do not respond to these normal things that we see,” he said on Luv FM.

    “The child’s gastrointestinal tract has a very high affinity to all those metals, which includes lead. In Ghana, we have babies being born with one eye, without genitalia,” said Prof. Sampene Ossei, adding that some mothers die with their babies.

    Meanwhile, pressure mounts on government to ensure illegal mining activities become a thing of the past.

    Forest reserves and several water bodies have been destroyed due to galamsey. Communities who depend on water bodies currently affected no longer have a safe space to acquire clean water for domestic and commercial purposes.

  • NAM1 wouldn’t even treat us this way – Pensioner blasts govt over delayed bond payment

    NAM1 wouldn’t even treat us this way – Pensioner blasts govt over delayed bond payment

    A male pensioner believed to be a retired police officer has lambasted the Ministry of Finance over the delay to pay pensioners whose government bonds have matured.

    Although the government has started settling its debt, it is yet to pay all pensioners their monies.

    The aggrieved pensioner who joined many picket at the Finance Ministry this week accused the government of being sly, noting that the ministry keeps cajoling and hiding the current state of matters.

    He noted that it is unacceptable that government trivializes their concern.

    “That period our money was with them was just a waste. They should try and give us the capital. Some of us are ready to take our capital. They cant be ‘fanfooling’ us like this. What they are doing.

    According to him, pensioners would not be treated this badly should their funds have been in the possession of Nana Appiah Mensah popularly known as NAM1, and not government.

    “It is worse than NAM 1 issue. NAM 1 is an individual company or entity but you, the whole government, you’d be tricking pensioners like this,” he bemoaned.

    The businessman is accused of operating a Ponzi scheme that caused many Ghanaians to lose their investments made into his gold dealership firm, MenzGold. 

    Menzgold Ghana Limited which promised customers an average of 7–10 percent monthly returns on investments was subsequently shut down in September 2018 by the Ghana Securities and Exchange Commission.

  • Court dismisses Ato Essien’s application opposing jail term processes

    Court dismisses Ato Essien’s application opposing jail term processes

    Lawyers representing William Ato Essien, the former CEO of the defunct Capital Bank, have had their application to set aside any proceedings that could lead to a custodial sentence for their client dismissed by the Accra High Court.

    The State filed processes to get William Ato Essien imprisoned for not making payments as part of his GH¢90 million restitution deal after pleading guilty to the offences levelled against him.

    Instead of facing an earlier jail sentence, Ato Essien agreed to refund the money after entering a plea bargain with the state under Section 35 of the Courts Act.

    As part of the agreement, he made a GH¢30 million deposit and was expected to pay the whole balance of GH¢60 million in three instalments, but failed to do so beginning April 28, 2023.

    Displeased Ato Essien requested further negotiations on the terms of payment.

    In court, Thaddeus Sory, Mr Essien’s legal representative, argued that a custodial sentence would defeat the purpose of section 35(7) of the Courts Act, which formed the basis for the agreement.

    He also maintained that the judge has the authority to suspend proceedings relating to the imposition of a custodial sentence when it concerns the implementation of a court judgment.

    But the State opposed this, indicating that the section being cited does not provide the court the opportunity to exercise discretion and vary the terms of the agreement.

    According to state, they are no longer interested in renegotiating the deal.

    The Judge, Justice Eric Kyei Baffour after considering the application dismissed it without merit.

    Meanwhile, the case has been adjourned to May 17, 2023, for the court to hear the state’s application for jailing Ato Essien.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Monkeypox no longer a global health emergency

    Monkeypox no longer a global health emergency

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that monkeypox is no longer a global public health emergency, almost a year after it was raised as a threat.

    Although the virus remains in circulation and there is a possibility of further waves and outbreaks, the WHO has lowered its alert level.

    Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of the global health body, has urged countries to “remain vigilant.”

    Monkeypox is transmitted through close contact with an infected person. Its official name is Mpox and it is caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the same family of viruses as smallpox, although it is much less severe.

    Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, swellings, back pain, aching muscles.

    Once the fever breaks a rash can develop, often beginning on the face, then spreading to other parts of the body, most commonly the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

    Anyone with the virus should abstain from sex while they have symptoms, to help prevent passing it on to others.

    Vaccines can protect people too. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global outbreak of monkeypox has resulted in over 87,000 cases and 140 deaths across 111 countries.

    However, the number of cases reported over the last three months has reduced by almost 90% in comparison to the previous three-month period, leading to the conclusion that the highest level of alert is no longer necessary.

    Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of the WHO, has emphasized the importance of remaining cautious despite the reduced alert level. In the UK, only ten cases have been reported this year.

    The announcement comes a week after the UN agency declared an end to the Covid emergency.

    A declaration of a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) indicates that countries need to cooperate to manage a shared threat, such as an outbreak of a disease.

    There is now just one WHO-declared PHEIC – for poliovirus, which was declared in May 2014.

    Dr Katy Sinka, head of sexually transmitted infections at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “If you’re eligible and still need to take up the vaccine, please come forward ahead of the summer months to ensure you have maximum protection.

    “First doses of the vaccine will end on 16 June and both doses will cease at the end of July.”

  • MTN to increase price of products in Ghana, 18 other African markets

    MTN to increase price of products in Ghana, 18 other African markets

    Bloomberg reports that MTN Group Limited is set to revise the prices of its products in 19 African countries.

    South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana are some the markets Africa’s largest wireless carrier has its businesses established.

    Per reports, the revision is due to inflationary pressures MTN Group Limited is battling.

    MTN Chief Executive Officer Ralph Mupita in the statement on trading update said “within this environment of elevated inflation, implementing selective price increases across the portfolio remains a critical priority.”

    “We anticipate that trading conditions across markets will remain challenging for the remainder of 2023,” he added. 

    Inflation across MTN’s footprint averaged 18.5% during the first quarter, compared with 11.5% a year earlier, the statement said.

    Inflation in Africa has been fueled by Russia’s war in Ukraine and the impact of debt accumulated during the Covid-19 pandemic on the region’s currencies.

    Additionally, in South Africa, MTN’s home market, power cuts have worsened, contributing to price pressures, stunting economic growth, and reducing spending in the country.

    Meanwhile, in Ghana, where inflation exceeded 50% but is currently on the decline, interest rate hikes are making it difficult for consumers to afford credit.

    MTN’s revenue in the first quarter reached 53 billion rand ($2.8 billion), a 15% increase from the previous year.

    Although there is a possibility of local exchange rates weakening against the dollar and the need for accelerated work in South Africa to enhance network resilience due to power cuts, the capital expenditure for the year will remain at 37.4 billion rand.

    MTN has revealed that it is assessing the possibility of exiting Guinea-Bissau, Guinea-Conakry, and Liberia in West Africa in the medium term.

    The telecommunications company has received an offer for its equity interests in these three units from Axian Telecom, and the offer is currently under evaluation.

  • Engineering Council to establish emergency team to probe rise in collapsed buildings

    Engineering Council to establish emergency team to probe rise in collapsed buildings

    The Engineering Council of Ghana has expressed grave concern over the surge in collapsed buildings in the country, which has resulted in the loss of lives and properties. 

    To address this trend, the council has decided to set up an emergency team to thoroughly investigate the incidents that have taken place so far.

    The Registrar of the Council, Mr Wise Ametefe, announced the establishment of the team and stated that it will also offer technical support to Assemblies in enforcing building regulations and directly respond to such disasters.

    Mr Ametefe, while speaking to the media, attributed the blame to the respective Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) for not being up to task with respect to the approval of permits for new buildings.

    “The Council is taking the cases very seriously. We agree that there could be failure in one aspect of the regulation, but that could not be attributed to the Engineering Council. It is mainly the Assemblies who are responsible for approval of buildings, but the professionals in the Assemblies should ensure that buildings submitted for approvals are vetted before permits are granted,” Mr Ametefe said, as quoted by the Ghana News Agency.

    In May so far, four cases of collapsed buildings have been reported. On May 1, a three-storey building collapsed at Madina in the Greater Accra Region, which reportedly killed one person and injured three others. Four days later, an individual was reported dead after being trapped under the rubble of the collapsed building situated at Nanakrom in the Adentan Municipality. 

    Additionally, over the weekend, a six-storey building under construction at the city campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale collapsed during a rainstorm. The most recent incident occurred last Tuesday, when a three-storey building at Old Bortianor collapsed, leaving seven individuals injured.

    In response to the latest incident, Mr Wise Ametefe revealed that preliminary investigations showed that there were “a lot of flaws in the construction”.

    “Concrete columns were there without reinforcement. Concrete work was done porously…there was very little supervision,” he said.

    The Engineering Council regulates the practice of engineering and provides for regulated matters to secure the highest professional standards in the practice of engineering. 

    It is the role of the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to ensure that permit applications for new buildings in their area of jurisdiction are thoroughly scrutinised in compliance with the Ghana Accessibility Standards.

    In 2016, the government launched the Ghana Standards on Accessibility Design Document in Accra, which provides specifications on how buildings, roads, and recreational centres should be designed to make them accessible to all, especially persons with disabilities. Sections of the Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), specifically in Article 6 (Access to public places), require owners or occupiers of a public place to provide appropriate facilities that make the place accessible to and available for use by persons with disabilities.

    The Act further stipulates that a person who provides service to the public shall put in place the necessary facilities that make the service available and accessible to a person with a disability. 

    These sections of the Disability Act have since been incorporated into the Ministry of Works and Housing’s Building Regulations (L.I 2465), which, among other things, require professionals in the built industry to have inclusiveness in all housing designs to adequately address the needs of the disabled and the aged.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Surfline goes bankrupt; shuts down data centre

    Surfline goes bankrupt; shuts down data centre

    The National Communications Authority (NCA) has disclosed that Surfline has shut down its data centre and readies to close down its radio access network.

    Acting Director-General of the NCA, Joe Anokye, told the media the company’s decision is likely as a result of its inability to finance its current liabilities from its available cash.

    “So, Surfline actually wrote to us that they shut down their data centre. Prior to that, they informed us that they were shutting down their radio access network because of cost.

    “But I think it’s a major liquidity issue…and I think it’s been very challenging for them,” he is quoted by Graphiconline to have said.

    According to Mr Anokye, his uniform is working on updating the public on the matter in a communiqué yet to be released.

    On its website, Surfline, said to be Ghana’s first 4G LTE company informed its customers that it has  experienced a total network downtime in the past few days which has resulted in a service interruption.

    “Please be assured that Surfline management is working very hard with all stakeholders to resolve the matter,” the company wrote.

    Surfline indicated that affected parties would have their data bundle extended proportionally, once the network is up again.

    “Surfline will also ensure that you, as our cherished customers, are compensated for all the inconvenience. We are grateful to you for bearing with us and very much appreciative of your custom,” it added.

    Surfline has a number of data packages that include Yolo bundle, San Bra Fie, Big Mood, All Weather Bundles, Pay Weekly plans and Unlimited plans which come with distinct prices. 

    For the Yolo bundle, one pays GHc4620 for 11 months and gets the 12th month free. It also comes with a free device insurance where one gets an instant device replacement at no cost should the device get damaged within the period.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • 13-year-old survivor narrates how 8 students died in Weija boat accident

    13-year-old survivor narrates how 8 students died in Weija boat accident

    Enyonam Ekpe, who currently stands as the only survivor of the Weija drowning incident has recounted how she narrowly escaped death when eight others failed to.

    On Wednesday, May 10, 2023, the death of eight school students plunged residents in the Weija Gbawe municipality in Accra into a state of mourning.

    They drowned after the boat they were travelling in capsized in a river at Wiaboman.

    Interacting with JoyNews on Thursday, 13-year-old Enyonam revealed that the tragedy could have been avoided should the canoeist have heeded to her advice.

    According to the teenager, there was a shortage of canoe riders on that fateful day at 5:40pm, hence she decided to utilize the service of a young paddler together with some other children.

    Upon boarding the canoe, she informed the paddler the vessel could not accommodate the number of individuals who had decided to commute.

    Enyonam recounts tragic incident at Weija
    Enyonam recounts tragic incident at Weija

    “I told him that there are a lot of people in the boat so he has to let some get down and take them later,” she said.

    But according to Enyonam, the young paddler whose identity currently remains unknown failed to take her suggestion into consideration and began the journey.

    It appears all was fine until that moment things got out of hand. Traumatised Enyonam could not tell exactly when the canoe lost balance and capsized, but all should recall was that at that very moment, she lost grip of her brother she journeyed with.

    While the others failed to stay afloat, Enyonam managed to grab hold of some part of the boat up until the moment she was rescued by a good Samaritan.

    Currently, the bodies of the dead children have been recovered but one, whose status is unknown, remains missing. Rescue efforts are underway to locate the missing person.

    This is not the first time in the year that school children have lost their lives in pursuit of formal education in unsettling conditions.

    In January this year, eight students from the Atikagome Community in the Sene East District of the Bono East Region drowned in the Volta Lake en route to school.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • India’s import of Russian oil in 2022 increased tenfold – Bank of Baroda

    India’s import of Russian oil in 2022 increased tenfold – Bank of Baroda

    According to Bank of Baroda, a state-controlled lender in India, the country’s imports of oil from Russia increased by a factor of ten last year, resulting in savings of approximately $5 billion (£4 billion) as the nation increased its crude purchases from Moscow.

    While Western nations have decreased their energy imports from Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been selling energy at discounted prices to countries such as India and China.

    India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, previously relied on Russian oil for only 2% of its annual crude imports in 2021.

    However, that proportion has now surged to almost 20%, according to Bank of Baroda.

    Bank of Baroda reported that in 2021, Russian oil made up only 2% of India’s annual crude imports, but that figure has since increased significantly to almost 20%.

    As per the data, India saved approximately $89 per tonne of crude by purchasing oil from Russia during the last financial year.

    Despite facing pressure from the US and Europe, India has refused to comply with Western sanctions on Russian imports and has not explicitly condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    India has defended its oil purchases by stating that it is a country heavily dependent on energy imports and with millions living in poverty, it cannot afford to pay higher prices.

    According to S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, in a TV interview last year, since the Ukraine conflict started, Europe has imported six times more energy from Russia than India.

    “Europe has managed to reduce its imports while doing it in a manner that is comfortable,” he said.

    Mr Jaishankar added: “If it is a matter of principle why did Europe not cut on the first day?”

    With no end in sight to the conflict, some analysts expect Russia to continue to offer cheap oil to Asia’s biggest energy importers.

    “We expect Russian crude intake to remain limited to these two countries [India and China], sustaining the steep discounts,” Vandana Hari, from energy analysis firm Vanda Insights told the BBC.

    India’s oil refiners will continue to maximise their profit margins for as long as they can, but will simply “go back to their usual crude diet” if the sanctions were to be lifted, she added.

  • Valerien Ismael appointed as Watford headcoach

    Valerien Ismael appointed as Watford headcoach

    Valerien Ismael has been named the new head coach of Watford.

    Chris Wilder, who left Vicarage Road at the conclusion of his short-term contract, is replaced by Ismael, a former manager of West Brom and Barnsley.

    Ismael is the 19th full-time hire made by the Pozzo family in the previous 11 years, though Watford has not announced the length of his contract.

    Watford technical director Ben Manga told the club’s official website: “Being able to appoint a new coach so soon in May means we can prepare very well together for next season.

    “To be able to welcome someone of Valerien’s experience to Watford is good news for our club. We are all looking forward to working with him.”

    The Pozzo family still controls Watford, which has a remarkable history of changing managers frequently. Wilder was only hired in March after Slaven Bilic was fired.

    In recent weeks, there had been much speculation over the future of the former manager of Sheffield United, Wilder, and on Wednesday night, that departure was made official.

    A club statement said: “The Hornets would like to place on record their thanks to Chris Wilder and his staff, whose short-term contracts have come to an end.

    “His 11-game spell began in March and finished after the season’s final-day win at home to Stoke. 

    “We wish Chris, Alan Knill, Matt Prestridge and Mike Allen all the very best for their next opportunity in football.”

    Ismael arrives at Vicarage Road after a spell in Turkey in charge of Besiktas.

    After numerous managerial stints in Germany, most notably with Wolfsburg, the Frenchman enjoyed success at Barnsley in 2021 after he guided them into the Championship play-offs against the odds.

    It earned the 47-year-old a move to West Brom but he was sacked after only seven months and will now aim to help Watford pursue a return to the Premier League.

  • 4m people leave Disney+ streaming service

    4m people leave Disney+ streaming service

    In the first three months of the year, Disney’s flagship streaming service reportedly lost 4 million members as part of a broader cost-cutting campaign.

    The Disney+ platform also reduced its losses by $400 million (£316.5 million).

    As the traditional film and television market diminishes, the studio behind Mickey Mouse, the Star Wars series, and the Marvel flicks is under pressure to turn its streaming business successful.

    In New York’s after-hours trade, the company’s shares decreased by almost 5%.

    The Hotstar service in Asia, which lost the ability to watch Indian cricket matches last year, accounted for the majority of the subscriber losses.

    In addition, Disney+ lost almost 300,000 subscribers in the US and Canada as a result of increasing subscription costs.

    It happens at a time when Disney’s streaming division has cut its operational losses for the first three months of this year to $659 million. From $1.1bn the previous quarter, that amount decreased.

    Disney chief executive Bob Iger said the improved financial performance reflects “the strategic changes we’ve been making throughout the company to realign Disney for sustained growth and success.”

    He previously said Disney+ had reached a “turning point” and would become profitable by next year.

    Earlier this year, the entertainment giant reported its first fall in subscriber numbers and announced plans to cut 7,000 jobs.

    The latest announcement comes after thousands of Hollywood TV and movie screenwriters held their first strike in 15 years last week.

    They are calling for better pay and working conditions as the transition to streaming has upended the traditional television and film industry.

    The last writers’ strike was in 2007. It lasted 100 days and cost the industry an estimated $2bn.

    On Wednesday, Disney’s chief financial officer Christine McCarthy declined to put a figure on how much the latest strike could cost the company.

    The walkout has already shut down several Disney projects, including those set to run on Disney+.

    Disney has poured billions of dollars into its streaming platforms in recent years, transforming it from a company rooted in traditional television, movies and theme parks into one of the streaming industry’s major players.

    It now has a total of more than 231 million subscriptions across its three streaming platforms, which also include the sports-focused ESPN+ and wider entertainment site Hulu.

    Disney+ has close to 158m subscribers around the world, although that is still behind rival Netflix’s 232.5m subscribers.

  • Landmark bone marrow transplant unit opened in Tanzania

    Landmark bone marrow transplant unit opened in Tanzania

    The capital city of Dodoma, Tanzania, now has a bone marrow transplant center.

    The hospital will concentrate on treating sickle cell patients, according to the director of Benjamin Mkapa Hospital, marking a significant development for the nation’s healthcare system.

    Only a few African nations, including Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, and Tunisia, provide bone marrow transplants.

    It is a milestone for Tanzania’s health sector
    Credit:Benjamin Mkapa Hospital

    Sickle cell is an inherited disorder and most cases are found in sub-Saharan Africa.

    It is caused by a faulty gene that affects how red blood cells develop and the condition can cause severe pain and organ failure.

    The unit was launched with great fanfare
    Credit: Benjamin Mkapa Hospital

    A bone marrow transplant replaces bone marrow with healthy cells. It is also used to treat patients with leukaemia or blood cancer.

    The East African nation ranks fourth in the world for the highest rates of sickle cell, with around 11,000 children born with the disease each year, according to Tanzania’s health ministry.

  • No payment plan, no water – GWCL to Guinness Ghana

    No payment plan, no water – GWCL to Guinness Ghana

    Guinness Ghana Breweries Plc in Accra will be refused water supply until it reaches an agreement with the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) to settle its debt.

    The company’s water supply system has been disconnected over a GH¢6.7 million debt.

    Speaking to the media, Accra East Regional Manager of GWCL, Emmanuel Ade Johnson noted that Guinness Ghana must first show commitment to clear its debt.  

    He claimed that the company is yet to provide a payment plan.

    “They are one of our major consumers, and we treat our consumers with respect. If their water supply is not good, we go to lengths to improve supply so that they can improve on their businesses. And so they have to come to the drawing table on a specific debt settlement plan. They have to tell us how much they can afford to pay us,” he told CitiNews.

    “They have refused to come out with one. They can decide to pay their debts within three or more, that is fine, we have to know. But until then, if they don’t come out with the payment plan, then GWCL will refuse to reconnect them, and we will send the water to other areas that are ready to pay us,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Guinness Ghana in a statement issued on May 10, has accused GWCL of taking the action without recourse to resolutions agreed upon from a meeting on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, chaired by the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources and attended by the Managing Director of GWCL and the leadership of Guinness Ghana.

    Also, the company has refuted reports that it has halted operations over the recent incident.

    The disconnection of Guinness Ghana’s Achimota site forms part of a revenue mobilisation by GWCL.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • “Not ready to say goodbye” – Marie-Claire tells late husband, Christian Atsu

    “Not ready to say goodbye” – Marie-Claire tells late husband, Christian Atsu

    Marie-Claire Rupio, the widow of Christian Atsu Twasam, remains deeply hurt as she continues to relish the moments she spent with her young husband before his painful exit.

    Since the burial of the late Black Stars player, Marie-Claire has been sharing with the world the intimate times she had with Christian Atsu and their three children.

    In her recent post, Marie-Claire poured her heart out to her cherished partner whom she was married to for about 11 years after tying the knot in 2012.

    Performing “In The Stars” by Benson Boone, she admitted in front of roughly about 1.318 billion Instagram users that she is still holding on to the love she shared with Atsu. Both the fun times and the sad times – she is still clutching onto what now serves as memories.

    She insisted on not parting ways since their love is to last for a lifetime (infinite).

    But quickly did reality come hitting hard. Heartbroken Marie-Claire had to accept that the Atsu she once knew – the dark tall humble Ghanaian man has left to a realm which remains inaccessible to her in her current mortal form.

    She said although Atsu, who lost his life in an unfortunate earthquake incident that hit Turkey, now resides in the stars, he feels so far away to reach.

    Now, Marie-Claire says she feels all “alone between the heavens and the embers”.

    Check out the lyrics of “In The Stars” in Benson Boone’s 2022 album “Walk me Home”

    Sunday mornings were your favorite
    I used to meet you down on Woods Creek Road
    You did your hair up like you were famous
    Even though it’s only church where we were goin’

    Now, Sunday mornings, I just sleep in
    It’s like I buried my faith with you
    I’m screamin’ at a God, I don’t know if I believe in
    ‘Cause I don’t know what else I can do

    I’m still holdin’ on to everything that’s dead and gone
    I don’t wanna say goodbye, ’cause this one means forever
    Now you’re in the stars and six-feet’s never felt so far
    Here I am alone between the heavens and the embers

    Oh, it hurts so hard
    For a million different reasons
    You took the best of my heart
    And left the rest in pieces

    Diggin’ through your old birthday letters
    A crumpled 20 still in the box
    I don’t think that I could ever find a way to spend it
    Even if it’s the last 20 that I’ve got, oh

    I’m still holdin’ on to everything that’s dead and gone
    I don’t wanna say goodbye, ’cause this one means forever
    Now you’re in the stars and six-feet’s never felt so far
    Here I am alone between the heavens and the embers

    Oh, it hurts so hard
    For a million different reasons
    You took the best of my heart
    And left the rest in pieces

    I’m still holdin’ on
    Holdin’ on, holdin’ on
    I’m still holdin’ on
    Holdin’ on, holdin’ on
    I’m still holdin’ on
    Holdin’ on
    I’m still holdin’ on
    I’m still, ooh
    Still holdin’ on

    I’m still holdin’ on to everything that’s dead and gone
    I don’t wanna say goodbye ’cause this one means forever
    Now you’re in the stars and six-feet’s never felt so far
    Here I am alone between the heavens and the embers

    Oh, it hurts so hard
    For a million different reasons
    You took the best of my heart
    Left the rest in pieces

    Source: The Independent Ghana