TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Stop referring to yourself as a driver’s mate – Alan’s running mate tells Bawumia

    Stop referring to yourself as a driver’s mate – Alan’s running mate tells Bawumia

    Elijah Kwame Owusu Danso, the running mate for John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for likening his role to that of a “driver’s mate.”

    Speaking on Showbiz A-Z with Joy FM’s Kwame Dadzie, the musician-turned-politician argued that the Vice President’s role is far from ceremonial, emphasizing its importance in governance.

    “Why does the constitution say that we must have a Vice President? Of course, the Vice President plays a very pivotal role. And I will explain to you why. The Vice President is also voted for, people don’t know. Because you are on the same ticket with the President,” he said.

    According to Owusu Danso, many voters consider the running mate when casting their ballot, making the Vice President integral to the government. He added that the Vice President cannot shirk responsibility when the government faces challenges.

    “When you look at the constitution, in the absence of the President, the Vice President is the person who acts in his stead. So the Vice President cannot extricate himself from the operations of government. So you have a role to play,” he stated.

    Drawing comparisons to Dr. Bawumia’s tenure as Vice President and his leadership of the Economic Management Team, Owusu Danso questioned his approach to accountability.

    “If you say that you are the driver’s mate and that gives you some level of comfort because you are going into an election, I find that to be very disingenuous and disrespectful to the Ghanaian people because we know exactly who you are. You are taking all the praise for what you describe as digitalisation but you are not taking criticism for the failure of the economy. I think that is double standards. So the driver’s mate is as important as the driver,” he remarked.

    Dr. Bawumia had previously described his role as Vice President as akin to a “driver’s mate” while addressing Ghanaians in Accra on February 7, 2024. He expressed optimism about his ability to make greater impact if elected President.

    “As Vice-President, I am like a driver’s mate. But if, by the Grace of God, you make me President, I will be in the driver’s seat with constitutionally mandated authority to pursue my vision and my priorities,” Dr. Bawumia said.

    He added, “Clearly, the initial conditions that we inherited in 2017 are not the same as will be in 2025. Therefore, my priorities will be different. We have done many good things and I will be seeking to build on them.”

    Owusu Danso, also a lawyer, broadcaster, and PR consultant, pledged to resign as Vice President if the Movement for Change government fails to deliver on its promises. He believes Alan Kyerematen has the solutions to Ghana’s pressing challenges and is confident in his ability to transform the lives of Ghanaians if elected.

  • Bags of rice distributed to SHSs by Lamens were not expired – Education Ministry

    Bags of rice distributed to SHSs by Lamens were not expired – Education Ministry

    The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ministry of Education, Kwasi Kwarteng, has refuted claims that 22,000 bags of rice distributed to senior high schools nationwide were expired, asserting that the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) declared the rice wholesome for consumption.

    This clarification follows allegations made by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, that the Free Senior High School Secretariat had distributed 22,000 bags of 50kg rice that had expired, been repackaged, and then supplied to schools. He further claimed that the FDA fined Lamens, the company responsible for the repackaging, GH₵100,000.

    At a press briefing on Monday, November 18, the Minority in Parliament, led by Mr. Ablakwa, demanded the arrest of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and directors of Lamens for their alleged actions.

    In an interview with Joy News, Mr. Kwarteng addressed these claims, stating that the rice had not expired. He clarified that the FDA’s fine was not due to the distribution of unwholesome food but rather because Lamens repackaged the rice without obtaining prior approval.

    “For the record, Lamens was fined for not getting authorisation for the repackaging of the food. It has nothing to do with the declaration of the wholesomeness of the food,” Mr. Kwarteng said.

    He explained that the rice had a “best before” date of December 2023, and while Lamens sought an extension of this date from the FDA, they proceeded with repackaging before receiving approval.

    “The FDA did not fine Lamens for unwholesome food. The best-before date was apparently extended, but what they were fined for was the fact that they didn’t get approval for the repackaging,” he added.

    Mr. Kwarteng dismissed Mr. Ablakwa’s allegations as baseless and questioned the logic of the claims. “Who would fine an agency just GH₵100,000 for supplying 22,000 bags of unwholesome food? Who, even in the Ministry of Education, would approve the distribution of 22,000 bags of unwholesome rice to schools across Ghana? Would the Minister of Education sit there and say that 22,000 bags of rice should be distributed to schools, knowing they were unwholesome, and we would all just sit there and clap over it?” he quizzed.

    He accused the MP of pursuing an agenda to create “needless alarm.”

    Meanwhile, the Auditor General’s report revealed that Lamens Ventures had previously supplied unwholesome food items, including 65 bags of rice and five cartons of milk, to some senior high schools in 2021.

    The report highlighted that these items, which were expired or unsafe for consumption at the time of an audit in September 2021, were delivered to Prestea Hunni Valley Senior High and Technical School and Asankragwa Senior High School.

    “In contravention of Section 52 of the PFM Act, 2016 (Act 921), we noted that supplies of 65 bags of rice in March 2021 to Prestea Hunni Valley Senior High and Technical School, and five cartons of Carnation milk to Asankragwa Senior High School by Lamens Ventures were found to be unwholesome at our time of audit in September though the expiry date on the product was October 2021,” the report stated.

    The Auditor General raised concerns about the health risks posed to students if the expired items had been consumed and advised the schools to report the matter to the National Buffer Stock Company for proper resolution.

  • SC failed to reveal what constitutes vacation of a parliamentary seat – Prof Kofi Abotsi 

    SC failed to reveal what constitutes vacation of a parliamentary seat – Prof Kofi Abotsi 

    The Dean of the UPSA Law School, Prof. Kofi Abotsi, has expressed concerns over the Supreme Court’s recent ruling against the Speaker of Parliament, highlighting the court’s failure to clearly define what constitutes the vacation of a parliamentary seat.

    The court’s decision overturned Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of vacancies for Members of Parliament (MPs) who intend to contest upcoming elections on the tickets of different parties.

    While the court clarified what does not constitute the vacation of a seat, Prof. Abotsi argues that it did not provide a comprehensive definition of what does.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Prof. Abotsi explained, “The court spoke in negative terms, explaining what does not amount to vacating a seat, but failed to offer a positive statement detailing what exactly constitutes the vacation of a seat.”

    He noted that this omission leaves room for ambiguity, especially since the Constitution refers to “leaving the party” as a factor in vacating a seat.

    Prof. Abotsi emphasized that this gap in the ruling could lead to future disputes, as it lacks clear guidelines for determining whether an MP has vacated their seat by leaving their party.

    He concluded, “I would have been happier to have seen a more positive statement outlining the circumstances that constitute vacation of seats, as I expect this matter to arise again.”

  • National bush fire prevention campaign launched

    National bush fire prevention campaign launched

    The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) officially launched its 2024/2025 National Bush Fire Prevention Campaign on Friday, November 15, at the National Headquarters in Accra.

    The campaign, themed “Effective Bush Fire Prevention: Stakeholder’s Role in Ensuring a Greener Tomorrow,” emphasizes the need for collective efforts to protect farmlands and natural vegetation from bushfires, a growing environmental concern in Ghana.

    The event was graced by the Special Guest of Honour, Henry Quartey, the Minister for the Interior, alongside government officials, members of the Fire Service Council, and representatives from Fire Aid UK.

    A lively skit by the Fire Volunteer Group from the Nsawam Municipality also highlighted the importance of bushfire prevention in a creative and engaging way.

    This launch underscores the GNFS’s dedication to environmental conservation and public safety, urging all stakeholders to actively participate in safeguarding the country’s green resources for future generations.

  • X bot accounts leveraging ChatGPT to spread disinformation against NDC to favour NPP – Report

    X bot accounts leveraging ChatGPT to spread disinformation against NDC to favour NPP – Report

    A recent report reveals that a network of 171 bot accounts on X (formerly Twitter) has been using ChatGPT-generated content to spread disinformation ahead of Ghana’s 2024 presidential elections.

    The accounts, which have been active since February, consistently promote the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its presidential candidate, Mahamudu Bawumia, while disparaging the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its candidate, John Mahama, according to NewsGuard.

    The bots employ popular hashtags such as #Bawumia2024, #ItIsPossible, and #NPP, and often push right-wing talking points. They also engage in negative campaigning against Mahama, with posts falsely accusing him of being a drunkard, a claim he has denied. The content produced by the bot accounts, which include AI-generated profile photos and names like “Glenn Washington” and “Patriot,” is posted at predictable intervals and is designed to amplify pro-NPP messaging.

    The findings were part of a study by NewsGuard, a website that tracks misinformation. Researchers used AI tools to analyze the posts, concluding that the content was highly likely to have been generated by ChatGPT. The bots’ activities reflect the growing use of AI by political influence networks, particularly during vulnerable political periods like elections.

    The research also highlights the role of X’s diminished content moderation efforts under Elon Musk’s leadership, which has made it easier for such disinformation campaigns to proliferate. Despite the findings, only two of the accounts have been suspended so far, with little immediate response from X or OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT.

    NewsGuard’s report marks this as one of the first instances of an AI-driven, partisan bot network designed to influence elections in Ghana, though the full impact of these accounts on the election’s discourse remains unclear.

  • 2024 bush fire campaign launched in Northern Region

    2024 bush fire campaign launched in Northern Region

    The Northern Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has launched its 2024 bushfire prevention campaign at Yung Duuni in the Sagnarigu Municipality, under the theme “Effective Bushfire Prevention: Stakeholders’ Role in Ensuring a Greener Tomorrow.”

    Representing the Regional Fire Commander, ADO I Hudu Baba emphasized GNFS’s commitment to reducing bushfires through education and community engagement. He called for collaboration with traditional authorities and District Assemblies to safeguard farmlands and vegetation.

    Hon. Mohammed Yakubu Ahmed Polo, the Sagnarigu Municipal Chief Executive, pledged the assembly’s full support for the campaign’s objectives.

    The Savannah Regional Fire Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) launched its 2024/2025 anti-bushfire campaign on Wednesday, November 13.

    The Regional Fire Commander DCFO Emmanuel Ofori Adjei and other speakers enumerated the devastating effects of bush fires and how to curb the menace.

    Special appreciation to key stakeholders, including the Municipal and Regional Coordinating Councils, Sister Security Service heads, Chiefs, and Aroucha Ghana, for the support offered.

    Between January and October 2024, Ghana has recorded a significant rise in fire outbreaks, with 658 incidents compared to 569 during the same period in 2023.

  • Police station at Akyem Mouso commissioned

    Police station at Akyem Mouso commissioned

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, assisted by the Chief of Akyem Muoso, Osabarima Dr. Owusu Beyeeman, last Friday, commissioned a newly built state-of-the-art brick model Police Station at Akyem Muoso in the Eastern Region to enhance policing in the area.

    This new facility will provide a strategic base for law enforcement officers to respond promptly to emergencies, deter criminal activities, and maintain peace in the area.

    With a dedicated police station, residents can now report crimes, seek assistance, and access justice more conveniently.

    Below are images of the ceremony.

  • Police manhunt group linked to NDC for issuing threats ahead of 2024 polls

    Police manhunt group linked to NDC for issuing threats ahead of 2024 polls

    The Ghana Police Service has launched a manhunt for a group identifying themselves as the “NDC Youth of Obuasi,” who were captured in a viral video making threats of violence ahead of the 2024 General Elections.

    In a statement, the Police described the conduct of the group as constituting “offensive conduct conducive to breaches of the peace” under Section 207 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

    A police operation is currently underway to apprehend the individuals involved and bring them to justice. The Service has assured the public of its commitment to maintaining law and order, particularly as the country prepares for the upcoming elections.

  • Ghana places 7th in ranking of countries with most educated politicians – Report

    Ghana places 7th in ranking of countries with most educated politicians – Report

    Ghana ranks seventh among countries with the most educated politicians, according to a report published by The Economist.

    The ranking is based on findings from two comprehensive studies that analyzed education levels among legislators in 56 countries with populations exceeding two million, using data from 2015, 2017, and 2023.

    Topping the list is Ukraine, followed by Poland, Czech Republic, Taiwan, and South Korea in second, third, fourth, and fifth positions, respectively. The United States placed sixth, with Ghana taking the seventh spot and Slovenia ranking eighth.

    The studies revealed that globally, an average of 78% of parliamentarians held at least a bachelor’s degree, while 40% had postgraduate qualifications. This is significantly higher than the global average education level among the general population, which stands at 35% in wealthy countries and 15% in poorer nations.

    Ukraine emerged as the leader in the rankings, with nearly a quarter of its legislators holding doctoral degrees during the study period. In contrast, countries like Italy, Norway, and the United Kingdom were noted for having a considerable proportion of lawmakers with only secondary education.

    The research highlights that while having highly educated legislators is becoming more common worldwide, there is little empirical evidence to suggest a direct correlation between academic qualifications and superior legislative performance.

    Despite this, the trend of filling parliaments with highly credentialed individuals continues to grow, potentially making national legislatures less representative of the populations they serve.

  • Lamens Venture supplied unwholesome rice, milk to schools in 2021 – Auditor General report

    Lamens Venture supplied unwholesome rice, milk to schools in 2021 – Auditor General report

    The Auditor General’s report has revealed that Lamens Ventures supplied unwholesome food items, including 65 bags of rice and five cartons of milk, to several senior high schools in Ghana in 2021.

    The report highlights that these items, which were found to be expired or unsafe for consumption during an audit in September 2021, were delivered to Prestea Hunni Valley Senior High and Technical School and Asankragwa Senior High School.

    The Auditor General raised concerns about the potential health risks posed to students if the items had been served amidst food shortages.

    “In contravention of Section 52 of the PFM Act, 2016 (Act 921), we noted that supplies of 65 bags of rice in March 2021 to Prestea Hunni Valley Senior High and Technical School, and five cartons of carnation milk to Asankragwa Senior High School by Lamens Ventures were found to be unwholesome at our time of audit in September though the expiry date on the product was October 2021,” the report stated.

    The Auditor General also noted that the risk of serving these expired items to students, particularly in times of food shortages, could have serious health implications. The schools were advised to report the matter to the National Buffer Stock Company for appropriate action or face accountability for any inappropriate disposal of the items.

    This revelation comes amid ongoing allegations against Lamens Ventures and the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) regarding the repackaging and distribution of expired rice to senior high schools in Ghana earlier this year.

    A parliamentary investigation led by Member of Parliament Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa exposed a scheme involving Lamens Ventures, NAFCO, and the distribution of contaminated rice across the country, sparking significant concerns about food safety and health risks for students.

    In response to the investigation, Mr. Ablakwa condemned the actions of those involved and called for accountability, particularly accusing NAFCO officials and political figures of shielding those responsible.

    He further emphasized the serious health risks posed by the distribution of expired and repackaged food items to schools, urging for the immediate prosecution of those involved.

    Report_of_the_Auditor-General_on_the_Public_Accounts_of_Ghana,_Pre-University_Educational_Institutions_for_the_financial_year_ended_31_December_2021Download
  • Recalled ballot papers for Ahafo and Volta Regions burnt by EC

    Recalled ballot papers for Ahafo and Volta Regions burnt by EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has confirmed the destruction of defective and excess electoral materials for the Ahafo and Volta Regions ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    In a press release on November 15, the EC disclosed that ballot papers for these regions were recalled due to serialisation errors. The defective materials were subsequently destroyed on Saturday, November 16, through burning, in the presence of key stakeholders.

    “The destruction done through burning was witnessed by the Agents of the Political Parties, the National Intelligence Bureau, National Security, Ghana Police Service, and the Electoral Commission,” stated Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chairman of Operations at the EC, in a signed statement.

    The move comes as Ghanaians prepare to head to the polls in 19 days to elect their leaders for the next four years.

  • Ireland loses to England by 5 goals to nil

    Ireland loses to England by 5 goals to nil

    England ended their Nations League campaign on a high note with a commanding 5-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland at Wembley, securing promotion to League A and bringing Lee Carsley’s tenure as interim head coach to a successful close.

    Carsley, who stepped up to lead the senior team after Gareth Southgate’s resignation in July, wrapped up his six-match stint with five wins and one defeat. Reflecting on the match, he spoke of his relief at guiding England back to the top tier of the Nations League.

    “I definitely felt like I have been out of my comfort zone but not beyond my capabilities,” Carsley said. “I never felt at any point I was drowning or I was struggling. I’ve taken the confidence that myself and the rest of the staff will be OK. I think we have got stronger as the [international] windows have gone on.”

    The emphatic win also marked Carsley’s farewell to the senior side as Thomas Tuchel prepares to take over as England’s head coach on January 1.

    https://twitter.com/England/status/1858221825680933103

    Carsley’s sole loss came in October against Greece, a result he admitted still stings. “I’m still gutted about the Greece game at home,” he said. “Even though we won five of the six, I straight away go back to that game we should have won at Wembley. It’s definitely a lonely place in that dugout when you’re not winning at Wembley.”

    Despite the setback, Carsley found positives in his tenure, including the integration of younger players. He handed debuts to eight players and fielded seven from the starting lineup that won the European Under-21 Championship under his guidance in 2023.

    “We have tried to change things,” Carsley noted. “We have tried to adapt and move on the style, the way that we play, the control, the amount of possession we have, the amount of chances we create. There has been no resistance to that. If anything, they have taken that on.”

    https://twitter.com/England/status/1858434802661077408

    Carsley also praised the team’s resilience and energy in the final match. “I spoke to the players at half-time at 0-0 and I was really happy with the way the crowd responded to the players as they went off the pitch. I said, ‘We’re going to score. I’ve got total belief that you are going to score, so just keep going.’ It was pleasing to get five goals.”

    The promotion to League A means Tuchel will have a smoother start, focusing on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers without the distraction of Nations League playoffs. For Carsley, the journey has been a challenging but fulfilling experience.

    “It’d be fair to say there’s a bit of relief,” he admitted. “It’s good that we’ve finished the campaign with such a strong performance.”

  • Upgrade poor services rendered – Employment Minister to FWSC

    Upgrade poor services rendered – Employment Minister to FWSC

    The Minister of Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions, Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, has challenged the staff of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) to justify the state’s investment in their newly inaugurated office complex by improving service delivery.

    Speaking at the commissioning of the new facility on Friday, November 15, Mr. Baffour-Awuah acknowledged the government’s efforts to enhance public sector institutions but stressed the need for the FWSC to ensure its services match the quality of its upgraded infrastructure.

    “You can have the best of office buildings, but if the service is poor, it means nothing. I want to entreat the staff to justify why the state invested in the facility,” he said to the gathering, which included FWSC staff.

    The modern office complex, envisioned by President Nana Akufo-Addo, is designed to provide the FWSC with a well-equipped workspace to enhance productivity and service delivery.

    Mr. Baffour-Awuah underscored the government’s commitment to promoting decent work and fair compensation, expressing confidence that the new edifice would support the Commission in fulfilling its critical role in advising the government on wage policies, salaries, and conditions of service for public sector workers.

    “I am confident that the new edifice will give you the self-satisfaction you need to work in an efficient and effective manner,” he said.

    The Minister concluded by emphasizing the importance of leveraging the improved facility to contribute to the government’s broader agenda of ensuring fair pay, enhancing productivity, and fostering a more efficient public sector.

  • France beat Italy to win Nations League Group A2

    France beat Italy to win Nations League Group A2

    Adrien Rabiot scored two headers as France secured a 3-1 victory over Italy at the San Siro, overtaking the Azzurri to win Nations League Group A2.

    The Marseille midfielder opened the scoring by heading in Lucas Digne’s corner, giving Les Bleus an early lead. Aston Villa defender Digne later saw his free-kick hit the crossbar before deflecting in off Italy goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, doubling France’s advantage.

    Italy, needing to lose by only one goal to remain top of the group, found a lifeline when Andrea Cambiaso scored with a cushioned volley. However, Rabiot sealed the win with an excellent header into the top corner from Digne’s pinpoint left-wing free-kick.

    Both Rabiot and Digne marked their 50th international caps in the match.

    Moise Kean nearly salvaged Italy’s top spot in stoppage time, but his effort was denied by France goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Reflecting on the game, Maignan said: “We were out for revenge. It was about pride after losing at home against them,” referring to Italy’s 3-1 victory at the Parc des Princes in September.

    The defeat marked Italy’s biggest home loss in a competitive match since a 3-0 loss to Sweden in 1983.

    France coach Didier Deschamps, who notably left Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé out of the squad, praised his team’s performance. “We had a young squad,” he said. “I wanted to see a lot of players, and winning here against an Italian team who were full of confidence is a great performance.”

    Both teams had already secured spots in the Nations League quarter-finals in March. France will head into the next stage as a seeded team, while Italy will not, following the group standings.

  • We must respect rulings from Supreme Court – Kufuor seemingly cautions Bagbin

    We must respect rulings from Supreme Court – Kufuor seemingly cautions Bagbin

    Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has underscored the need for Ghanaians to respect the rulings of the Supreme Court, urging caution and moderation in criticisms directed at the judiciary and other key state institutions.

    His remarks come in the wake of a contentious Supreme Court ruling, which declared Speaker Alban Bagbin’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant as unconstitutional. The ruling has sparked intense debate, dividing opinions across the political spectrum and among the general public.

    During a media interaction on Sunday, November 17, Mr. Kufuor emphasised the importance of respecting Ghana’s democratic institutions, stressing their critical role in safeguarding the nation’s constitutional framework and ensuring stability.

    “We talk of checks and balances. Some also say separation of powers, and I subscribe to that. Even though we are in different institutions, if yours is not going well, I should be able to tell you to prevent the excesses. However, I urge caution and thoughtfulness regarding some of the criticisms being raised,” he said.

    The former President noted that the Constitution, as the supreme law, grants the Supreme Court interpretative authority, which must be upheld by all.

    “In the Fourth Republic, the constitution is supreme, and the same constitution empowers the Supreme Court with interpretative authority. Once the court delivers a ruling, it must be respected.

    “But it is important to note that the court does not actively seek cases, rather, individuals bring matters before it,” he added.

    While acknowledging that differing opinions on judicial decisions are natural, Mr. Kufuor reminded the public to maintain a respectful tone. He pointed out that the strength of Ghana’s democracy hinges on the continued faith of the citizenry in its institutions, even amidst disagreements.

  • 61,796 animals vaccinated against rabies; 91 cases recorded so far – Veterinary Service Directorate

    61,796 animals vaccinated against rabies; 91 cases recorded so far – Veterinary Service Directorate

    The Veterinary Service Directorate of Ghana has indicated that in the fight against rabies, a total of 61,796 animals—comprising 57,439 dogs and 4,357 cats were vaccinated between January and September 2024.

    Among the regions, Greater Accra recorded the highest number of animals vaccinated, with 11,929 dogs and 1,672 cats, totaling 13,601 animals.

    The Upper East Region followed with 7,653 animals vaccinated, including 6,910 dogs and 743 cats, while the Ashanti Region recorded 7,141 animals vaccinated, comprising 6,820 dogs and 321 cats. The Eastern Region and Bono Region also reported significant numbers, vaccinating 6,159 and 5,281 animals respectively.

    In contrast, the North East Region reported the lowest vaccination figures, with only 1,020 dogs and 1 cat vaccinated, amounting to 1,021 animals. Similarly, the Oti Region had low numbers, with 651 dogs and 6 cats vaccinated.

    Other regions with relatively low vaccination numbers include the Savannah Region, which vaccinated 707 animals (611 dogs and 96 cats), and the Western North Region, which vaccinated 1,122 animals (1,102 dogs and 20 cats).

    However, the challenge remains as 91 positive cases of rabies have been recorded nationwide within the same period.

    Greater Accra recorded the highest number of dog rabies cases, with 34 cases reported. The Bono Region followed with 18 cases, while the North East Region recorded 14 cases. The Western Region reported 11 cases, and the Ashanti Region had 8 cases. On the other hand, the Upper West Region reported the lowest number of cases, with only 2 cases recorded.

    As of September, 26 human fatalities were recorded due to rabies.

    One of the most prevalent zoonotic diseases (illnesses that are transmitted from animals to humans, often through direct contact with animals or through vectors like ticks and fleas) in Ghana is rabies, a viral disease that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. The disease is commonly spread through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, primarily dogs.

    In Ghana, over 2.5 million dogs are currently unvaccinated or under-vaccinated, a major factor contributing to the spread of rabies.

    The Ministry of Food and Agriculture, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service and development partners, launched the National Rabies Prevention Campaign in 2023. The campaign, themed “Prevent the Bite or Scratch! Vaccinate your Dog! Stop Rabies Now!” seeks to vaccinate 70% of Ghana’s dog population over a 3 to 5-year period, which is necessary to achieve herd immunity and significantly reduce the spread of rabies.

    Veterinary technologist at the Directorate, Mr. Eshun in an engagement with The Independent Ghana explained the vaccination campaign faces several challenges. One major issue is the inability of pet owners to control or restrain their dogs during vaccination campaigns.

    President of the Veterinary Medical Technologists Association of Ghana (VEMTAG), Emmanuel Eshun

    “The Service is faced with challenges because owners of the animals cannot hold them,” he noted. Additionally, the vaccination efforts are underfunded. He highlighted additional costs such as publicity for vaccination campaigns, staff transportation, and motivation for those administering the vaccines.

    “The percentage of treated rabies cases is still low because you need a lot of funding. The vaccination is not just about the vaccine itself; the activities surrounding the vaccination should also be costed. That is where we always get it wrong,” Mr Eshun said.

    Mr. Eshun stressed the need for greater government commitment to addressing the challenges surrounding animal care in Ghana, adding that without sustained investment in animal health, the risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks will remain high.

    Among other matters, Emmanuel Eshun has expressed concern over the poor animal care practices in Ghana, warning that they are contributing to the spread of zoonotic diseases.

    He stressed that the careless treatment of animals—particularly the lack of vaccination, proper housing, and health care—creates an environment ripe for the transmission of zoonotic diseases.

    “The inability of some Ghanaians to access their own basic needs prevents them from prioritizing the welfare of animals,” he noted, adding that wild animals kept as pets are also a growing concern in terms of disease transmission.

    Mr Eshun explained that ectoparasites—external parasites like ticks, fleas, and mites—play a significant role in the transmission of zoonotic diseases. These parasites, which thrive in environments where animals are poorly cared for, can carry dangerous pathogens that affect both animals and humans.

    A lack of regular animal grooming and hygiene contributes to the spread of ectoparasites, increasing the risk of diseases such as Lyme disease, scabies, and flea-borne illnesses.

    “A lot of people cannot bathe their animals. If you cannot bathe your animal, it means that the tendency for the animal to have a lot of ectoparasites is higher,” Mr Eshun stated.

    Poor grooming and hygiene, combined with a lack of regular health checks, leave many animals vulnerable to infections, which can eventually spill over into human populations.

  • Neglect of parks, medians of city roads impacting environmental health – GhIH cautions govt

    Neglect of parks, medians of city roads impacting environmental health – GhIH cautions govt

    The Ghana Institute of Horticulturists (GhIH) has expressed concern over the growing neglect of parks, medians of city roads, and urban landscapes, warning that the situation is negatively impacting environmental health in urban communities.

    This caution was issued during the 24th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Institute, held from November 13–15, at the Great Hall of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi.

    Speaking under the theme, “Agrochemicals Usage for Enhanced Horticultural Crops Production: Our Health, Wealth and Environment,” the GhIH emphasized the importance of these green spaces to urban environmental health.

    “We draw the attention of Government to the growing neglect in the maintenance of parks, medians of city roads, and the general landscapes of towns and cities, which are critical for improving the environmental health of our urban communities,” the Institute stated, calling on both the government and private companies to partner with the GhIH to address this challenge.

    Protecting the Environment and Food Security

    The GhIH expressed alarm at the ongoing degradation of the environment through activities such as illegal mining (galamsey) and improper agrochemical usage, which threaten food security and public health. The Institute called on the government to enforce policies and deploy resources to protect farmlands, forests, and water bodies while engaging local authorities to curb these destructive activities.

    Strengthening Agencies and Ensuring Safe Agrochemical Usage

    Highlighting the critical role of regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Institute lamented the challenges of inadequate staff and funding. It urged the government to bolster these agencies to ensure proper regulation of agrochemicals, eliminate the use of banned substances, and strictly enforce the guidelines for approved chemicals.

    Boosting Horticulture and Reducing Imports

    The Institute acknowledged the government’s efforts through initiatives such as Planting for Food and Jobs Phase II (PFJ 2.0) but advocated for a stronger focus on horticultural crops like tomatoes, onions, and carrots. “We call on Government to develop crop-specific policies for tomato, onion, and carrots to increase their production and processing to reduce their importation into the country,” the Institute urged, emphasizing that such measures could create jobs, especially for women and youth.

    Supporting Research and Food Safety

    The GhIH stressed the need for increased funding to universities and research institutions to enhance studies on agrochemical usage and food safety. Additionally, it encouraged agrochemical companies to invest in the training of agricultural extension agents and farmers to ensure the safe use of agrochemicals.

    Collaboration and Representation

    The Institute reiterated its readiness to collaborate with government and stakeholders to enhance the horticulture sector, calling for representation on the Horticultural Advisory Board of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA). “As a matter of urgency, government should consider having representatives of the GhIH on the Horticultural Advisory Board to support the ministry in matters related to horticultural policies,” the communiqué stated.

    The conference concluded with an appeal to all Ghanaians to prioritize food safety to protect public health and ensure the global competitiveness of Ghana’s horticultural exports.

    Sponsors of the three-day event included Chemico Agrochemicals, Rainbow Agrosciences, and BioEnsure Limited, among others.

  • NPP’s Tano North PC, Gideon Boako, presents motorbike to Local Council of Churches

    NPP’s Tano North PC, Gideon Boako, presents motorbike to Local Council of Churches

    Tano North Local Council of Churches has received a motorbike from Dr. Gideon Boako, Spokesperson for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Tano North Constituency to enhance their operations.

    The donation was made on Saturday, November 16, following a peace walk and dialogue session organised by the council in Duayaw Nkwanta.

    The event focused on promoting peaceful coexistence and unity in the lead-up to the 2024 elections and drew participation from various stakeholders, including church leaders, traditional authorities, and community members.

    Dr. Boako highlighted that the motorbike would help the council extend their activities to remote areas of the constituency, ensuring their efforts to encourage peace and community development reach all corners. He acknowledged the critical role of religious leaders in promoting social cohesion and pledged his continued support to such initiatives.

    The council expressed their appreciation for the donation, describing it as a timely intervention to improve their mobility and engagement with the community. They commended Dr. Boako’s commitment to strengthening ties between political leaders and local institutions.

    This gesture adds to Dr. Boako’s ongoing efforts to promote development and unity within the constituency, showcasing his dedication to addressing the needs of various groups as the 2024 elections approach.

  • Don’t risk your life for any politician, it isn’t worth it – Gideon Boako tells youth

    Don’t risk your life for any politician, it isn’t worth it – Gideon Boako tells youth

    Spokesperson for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Tano North Constituency, Dr Gideon Boako has cautioned the youth against engaging in political violence.

    He stating that “no politician is worth the sacrifice of your blood.”

    Speaking at a peace walk and talk event in Duayaw Nkwanta on Saturday, November 16, Dr. Boako emphasised the importance of prioritising personal safety and community well-being over partisan interests.

    He reminded the youth that politicians “come and go,” but the future of their community should remain paramount.

    The event, organised by the Tano North local council of churches, aimed to foster peace and unity ahead of the 2024 elections. It attracted participants from various political parties, community leaders, and traditional chiefs, underscoring a shared commitment to a peaceful electoral process.

    Dr. Boako urged the youth to focus on maintaining harmony, adding that no political ambition or allegiance is worth the risk of violence or bloodshed.

    Ahead of the polls, several politicians including the presidential candidates such as Dr Bawumia, John Mahama and Alan Kyerematen, have entreated all and sundry to seek peace when they go out to cast their ballot.

    In the 2020 general elections, several lives were lost and investigations are still ongoing.

  • This is not the time to be unveiling statues of oneself – Naana Jane to Akufo-Addo

    This is not the time to be unveiling statues of oneself – Naana Jane to Akufo-Addo

    The Vice Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has criticized President Nana Akufo-Addo for unveiling a statue of himself in Takoradi amidst widespread economic hardship in the country.

    Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, during a courtesy call on the Regent of Wungu, Sulemana Saka Adams, in the Walewale constituency as part of her campaign tour of the North East Region, described the act as unjustifiable, especially when many Ghanaians are struggling with poverty and skyrocketing prices of goods and services. She noted that women, in particular, bear the brunt of the economic difficulties under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government.

    “The government has failed to create jobs for the youth, leading to high unemployment across the country,” she said, adding that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) under John Dramani Mahama would prioritize policies to ease economic hardships, including the 24-hour Economy, the Big Push initiative, Women’s Development Bank, and the National Apprenticeship Programme.

    Prof. Opoku-Agyemang further urged Ghanaians to reject the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the December 7 elections, emphasizing that “the time to change is now.” She assured voters that an NDC government would reset the nation for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

    President Akufo-Addo unveiled the statue on November 6 at the entrance of Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi during his one-day “thank you” tour of the Western Region. Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah defended the statue as a tribute to the President’s contributions to the region, citing key projects such as the rehabilitation of the Effia-Nkwanta Hospital, the Sinohydro interchange, and the redevelopment of Takoradi Market Circle.

    However, critics point out that many of these projects remain incomplete, fueling discontent among Ghanaians, particularly on social media. Some residents in the Sekondi-Takoradi area have even called for the removal of the statue, arguing that it is inappropriate given the country’s economic challenges.

  • AfCFTA opens application for supply and non-consulting services; deadline set for January 2025

    AfCFTA opens application for supply and non-consulting services; deadline set for January 2025

    The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat has announced its call for reputable and qualified vendors to pre-qualify for the supply of goods, services, non-consulting services, and works.

    Interested vendors must complete the pre-qualification process by submitting a Google Form application no later than Monday, January 20, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. GMT.

    This initiative aims to streamline procurement processes for upcoming tenders as the Secretariat continues its mission to foster intra-Africa trade and economic development.

    Vendors from both local and international markets are encouraged to apply for pre-qualification, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. These include a clean record free from suspension by organizations such as the African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), World Bank, or other public institutions.

    Pre-qualified companies will gain exclusive access to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Requests for Quotations (RFQs) tailored to their expertise and capacities.

    Application Guidelines

    The form requires attaching essential documentation, including:

    • Certificate of incorporation
    • Company profile
    • Evidence of tax payment
    • Labor certificates (specific to works)
    • Proof of public procurement registration (where available)
    • Valid Ministry of Works and Housing certificates for applicable works
    • Evidence of at least three similar past services or goods delivered, along with client references

    Local companies must also provide a Public Procurement Authority (PPA) certificate, and contractors are allowed to apply for more than one category.

    For additional details or clarifications, vendors can reach the Travel & Procurement Unit at afcftatender@au-afcfta.org and copy relevant contacts provided in the announcement. Submissions are strictly electronic, with physical documents not accepted.

  • 2024/25 anti-bushfire campaign launched in Savannah Region

    2024/25 anti-bushfire campaign launched in Savannah Region

    The Savannah Regional Fire Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) launched its 2024/2025 anti-bushfire campaign on Wednesday, November 13.

    The initiative was launched under the theme: “Effective Bushfire Prevention, Stakeholders Role in ensuring a Greener Tomorrow.”

    The Regional Fire Commander DCFO Emmanuel Ofori Adjei and other speakers enumerated the devastating effects of bush fires and how to curb the menace.

    Special appreciation to key stakeholders, including the Municipal and Regional Coordinating Councils, Sister Security Service heads, Chiefs, and Aroucha Ghana, for the support offered.

    Between January and October 2024, Ghana has recorded a significant rise in fire outbreaks, with 658 incidents compared to 569 during the same period in 2023.

    This marks a worrying trend that has raised concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of the country’s firefighting services.

  • We will get to the bottom of this – Education Ministry on supply of expired food to SHSs

    We will get to the bottom of this – Education Ministry on supply of expired food to SHSs

    The Ministry of Education has assured the public of its commitment to investigating and addressing allegations of expired food being distributed to Senior High Schools (SHSs) nationwide.

    Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsnight on Thursday, November 14, the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Kwesi Kwarteng, emphasized that the Ministry will not tolerate any unscrupulous activities that compromise the safety and well-being of students.

    “At no point will the Ministry of Education countenance some of these unscrupulous activities, no matter who is involved,” Mr. Kwarteng stated.

    He added, “We are very much convinced that at the end of the investigations, we will be able to get to the bottom… and get to know the individuals or the personalities behind these unscrupulous activities that have happened.”

    The Ministry’s response follows allegations made by the Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The MP alleged that 22,000 bags of expired and repackaged rice were distributed to various SHSs through the Free Senior High School Secretariat earlier this year.

    According to Mr. Ablakwa, the expired rice, imported from India under the brand Moshosho Rice, was repackaged into sacks labeled “ECOWAS” and “Made in Ghana Rice” but omitted any expiry dates. He claimed the act was deliberate and involved collusion between the National Food Buffer Stock Company and a private entity, Lamens Investments Africa Limited.

    “The National Food Buffer Stock Company clearly conspired with a company known as Lamens Investments Africa Limited. They used the Buffer Stock storage facility in Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region, to repackage expired rice,” Mr. Ablakwa alleged.

    In response, Mr. Kwarteng acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and noted that the Ministry has commenced investigations while also calling on state institutions, particularly the Ghana Police Service, to aid in uncovering the truth.

    “It is important to reiterate that we take these allegations very seriously, and we have immediately commenced investigations,” he said.

    He further clarified that while the Ministry does not engage in food distribution directly, it is working closely with the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the Ghana Commodity Exchange to address the concerns.

    “We are jointly looking into the concerns or the matters that have been raised. We need certain responses from them,” he explained.

    Mr. Kwarteng described the feedback from Mr. Ablakwa as valuable and assured the public that the Ministry remains dedicated to improving service delivery in the education sector.

    “We are glad that the Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is bringing this to our notice, and we are working on it,” he added.

    He reassured parents and guardians that the Ministry would prioritize the safety and welfare of students throughout the investigation.

    “We will pursue this matter and ensure that the safety and well-being of our students remain paramount,” Mr. Kwarteng concluded.

  • It was vital Supreme Court addressed vacant seat controversy – Kofi Bentil

    It was vital Supreme Court addressed vacant seat controversy – Kofi Bentil

    The Vice President of IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil, has commended the decision of the Majority Leader to petition the Supreme Court regarding the controversy surrounding the vacant seats in Parliament.

    He described the move as prudent, emphasizing the Supreme Court’s demonstrated expertise in constitutional interpretation through detailed analyses of past cases.

    Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, November 15, Mr. Bentil dismissed claims that the issue should not have been taken to the Supreme Court.

    “I have heard many people say this was very clear, everybody understands what it says, and so there is no doubt about it and it shouldn’t have even gone to the Supreme Court,” he remarked. “That is totally debunked, it is debunked even on the fact before it went to court that certain people disagreed. The fact that you have a view, and I have a different view, showed clearly that there needed to be somebody to break that jam.”

    Mr. Bentil explained that the Supreme Court’s intervention was necessary due to the disagreement on the matter, dismissing suggestions that the High Court should have been the first point of call.

    “There was a point that it should go straight to the High Court and if the High Court felt there was a problem with interpretation, then they refer it to the Supreme Court, the High Court deals with the interpretation then it’s referred back to the Supreme Court to finish the matter,” he said.

    However, he argued that the Supreme Court was right to assert jurisdiction in the case since it involved interpretation issues, a role uniquely suited to the apex court.

    Referencing the Supreme Court’s ruling, Mr. Bentil pointed to Page 33 of the judgment, which, he said, supported his earlier assertions during the interview.

    “When in one case you have matters of interpretation, and then other matters which are specifically given to a high court, the Supreme Court must necessarily take it. We don’t want a situation where it goes there and comes back, and goes there again wasting everybody’s time and going back and forth,” he explained.

    He acknowledged Justice Tanko Amadu’s opposing view regarding the High Court’s jurisdiction being usurped but maintained that the majority ruling of the Supreme Court was sound.

    “Well, clearly, the majority disagree with him,” he responded during the show.

    Citing Page 12 of the ruling, Mr. Bentil emphasized that the Supreme Court’s assumption of jurisdiction was neither novel nor inappropriate. He recalled past situations where Parliament faced constitutional challenges, underscoring the importance of the Supreme Court stepping in to provide clarity.

    “And so, for the Supreme Court to assume it, with all due respect, was the sensible thing to do, and that is what they did,” he concluded.

  • Woman knocked down in hit-and-run near Accra Mall

    Woman knocked down in hit-and-run near Accra Mall

    A fatal hit-and-run accident is said to have claimed the life of an unidentified woman at the Spanner bus stop, close to the Accra Mall.

    In the absence of immediate professional assistance, bystanders carried the woman’s lifeless body from the road to a safer location.

    Her identity remains unknown, and the police are yet to issue a statement on the incident.

    https://twitter.com/tigpost_/status/1857376844179214519

  • Education Ministry can’t probe expired food case, it is complicit – Ablakwa

    Education Ministry can’t probe expired food case, it is complicit – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has accused the Ministry of Education of complicity in the scandal involving over 22,000 bags of expired and contaminated rice being re-packaged and distributed to Senior High Schools (SHSs) across Ghana.

    In a post on Facebook, Ablakwa expressed surprise at the Ministry’s claim of investigating the matter, arguing that they were already aware of the illegal activity months before, citing intercepted documents showing that the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) had informed a Deputy Minister of Education, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, during their investigations.

    Ablakwa, who has been at the forefront of exposing the scandal, alleged that Lamens Investments Africa and the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) were responsible for the re-packaging of expired rice, which was then distributed to schools including Bolga Girls’ SHS and Presbyterian Boys SHS. He further accused the Education Ministry of failing to protect students, calling for an independent, unbiased investigation into the matter.

    The MP revealed that a tip-off from a concerned Ghanaian led to the discovery of the unauthorized re-packaging at NAFCO’s Ashanti Region facility, which was carried out without FDA approval. He criticized the involvement of political figures, highlighting that NAFCO’s CEO, Alhaji Hanan Abdul-Wahab, is also an NPP parliamentary candidate, further raising concerns about the potential interference in the investigation.

    Ablakwa urged the arrest of those involved in the illegal operation and demanded sanctions against the Ministry of Education for its failure to act, stating that politicians and business partners behind the scheme should be held accountable for jeopardizing the health of SHS students.

  • 2 Chinese involved in Aisha Huang’s galamsey case irregularly obtained work, residence permits – Court told

    2 Chinese involved in Aisha Huang’s galamsey case irregularly obtained work, residence permits – Court told

    The Accra High Court has heard that two Chinese nationals, Li Wei Guo and Shi Mei Zhi, allegedly involved in illegal mining operations linked to Aisha Huang, irregularly obtained work and residence permits.

    This revelation came as part of an ongoing trial involving three accused persons, including a Ghanaian, Nana Kwame Opoku, also known as Obolo.

    Li Wei Guo and Shi Mei Zhi face charges of conspiracy and undertaking mining operations without a license, contrary to Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by Act 995. They are also accused of making false representations in obtaining immigration permits, breaching provisions of the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573).

    The court heard that between 2017 and 2018, the two Chinese nationals, assisted by Nana Kwame Opoku, acquired land at Dunkwa Nwinso in the Eastern Region, where they engaged in illegal mining activities. Investigations revealed that their work and residence permits were fraudulently secured, raising further legal concerns about their stay and operations in Ghana.

    The case forms part of broader investigations into illegal mining activities associated with Aisha Huang, the “Galamsey Queen.” Huang, recently sentenced to four years in prison for her role in illegal mining and re-entering Ghana after deportation, was linked to several foreign nationals accused of facilitating or participating in galamsey operations across the country.

    Cross-examination of the second accused was completed on November 13, with the third accused opening his defense the following day. The trial continues as the state seeks to address the alleged violations of Ghana’s immigration and mining laws.

  • Afua Asantewaa attempts GWR sing-a-thon again after disqualification

    Afua Asantewaa attempts GWR sing-a-thon again after disqualification

    Afua Asantewaa has announced her decision to attempt the Guinness World Record (GWR) for longest singing marathon again after her failed attempt last year.

    In a flier shared, she indicated that this would take place on December 21.

    Afua Asantewaa completed 126 hours of the singing marathon she started on December 24, 2023 in her attempt to break the 11-year-old GWR set by the Indian, Sunil Waghmare. Afua’s attempt was aimed at breaking the 105 hours record set by Waghmare in 2012. She ended the singing marathon on December 27, 2023.

    But the Guinness World Record (GWR) earlier this year disqualified Afua Asantewaa’s sing-a-thon attempt.

    In a tweet responding to a comment enquiring about her attempt, the GWR said “unfortunately, Afua’s Guinness World Record attempt for the longest singing marathon was not successful but we hope that she will make another attempt soon.”

    “This was due to guidelines around rest break timings not being met. These rules are standard across all of our ‘longest marathon’ records,” a GWR spokesperson said. 

    The GWR has elaborate and strict requirements for challenging a record or setting one, and has similar requirements for submitting attempts. Applicants would have to strictly follow the rules, failure to follow the step-by-step processes could result in a rejection.

  • Samreboi-Amoaku steel bridge finally collapses after months of warning

    Samreboi-Amoaku steel bridge finally collapses after months of warning

    The 77-year-old Samreboi-Amoaku steel bridge, a critical link for the transport of goods and people, has collapsed after months of urgent pleas from Amoaku residents for its repair.

    The bridge gave way on Thursday under the weight of a truck heavily loaded with bags of cocoa, which was en route from Mumuni to Samreboi. The collapse sent several bags of cocoa into the Samre River, but no casualties were reported.

    Residents had intensified calls for government intervention in September, describing the bridge as a “ticking time bomb” and warning of potential disaster. Constructed in 1947 by Africa Timber and Plywood (now SAMARTEX), the bridge had not undergone any major repairs in its lifetime. Years of neglect left the structure severely compromised, with rusty and shifted metal spokes and cracked expansion joints.

    Despite its deteriorating state, the bridge continued to carry light vehicles and cocoa-laden trucks bound for Takoradi Harbour, a situation community members had long deemed unsafe.

    Mr. Joseph Kingsley Armah, Secretary to the Amoaku Palace, had previously cautioned that a collapse would bring commercial activities to a standstill. His fears have now materialized, with significant economic and social disruptions expected in the days ahead.

    For decades, the bridge has been a lifeline for the transport of cocoa and food crops to harbours and markets. Amoaku, a key cocoa-producing area stretching from Mumuni Camp through Prestea to Samreboi, plays a vital role in Ghana’s cocoa economy.

    The collapse of the bridge threatens to severely impact the Samre cocoa enclave, disrupting livelihoods and delaying exports, which are critical to the local and national economy.

  • Supreme Court’s full ruling on parliamentary vacant seats controversy

    Supreme Court’s full ruling on parliamentary vacant seats controversy

    The Supreme Court has clarified its decision to uphold the suit filed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, bringing clarity to the controversy surrounding when a Member of Parliament (MP) is deemed to have vacated their seat.

    In its detailed judgment, the Court ruled that an MP is considered to have vacated their seat only if they change their political affiliation during their current term while continuing to serve in Parliament under a new party identity.

    The ruling, which aligns with the Majority Leader‘s position, interprets Articles 97(1)(g) and (h) of the Constitution as applying strictly to the ongoing parliamentary term. These provisions, the Court emphasized, do not extend to future terms, meaning an MP’s decision to contest elections under a different party in subsequent electoral cycles does not constitute grounds for vacating their seat.

    The judgment further clarified that an MP must relinquish their seat if they switch parties during their tenure while still representing the new party in Parliament. The provisions are designed to address political alignment during the present term of service and do not regulate political choices made for future elections.

    The full ruling is provided below.

    ALEXANDER_AFENYO_MARKIN_VRS_SPEAKER_OF_PARLIAMENT__ANOR1Download
  • Mike Tyson finally bouts Jake Paul today

    Mike Tyson finally bouts Jake Paul today

    Nearly 40 years after his professional debut and 19 years after his retirement, 58-year-old boxing legend Mike Tyson will step into the ring today to face YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a Netflix-backed event.

    The fight, taking place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, marks Tyson’s return to the sport he once dominated in the late 1980s.

    The officially sanctioned bout is set for eight two-minute rounds and has drawn significant attention, with a crowd of about 70,000 expected at the Dallas Cowboys’ home stadium. Initially scheduled for July, the fight was postponed after Tyson suffered a bleeding ulcer in May, leading to criticism of the event as a risky endeavor for the aging fighter. Tyson last fought professionally in 2005, ending in a technical knockout loss to Kevin McBride after quitting on his stool.

    The weigh-in on the eve of the fight saw tensions boil over when Tyson slapped Paul during their face-off. Paul had theatrically crawled across the floor before rising to Tyson’s eyeline. Tyson, who had largely ignored Paul’s taunts throughout the week, struck his younger opponent, causing a brief scuffle between security teams.

    “Talking’s over,” Tyson said as he walked off stage.

    Paul, unfazed, smiled and appeared to meditate after the incident. “I didn’t even feel it. He’s angry. He’s an angry little elf,” Paul quipped. “Mike Tyson, I thought that was a cute slap, buddy, but tomorrow you’re getting knocked out.”

    https://twitter.com/HappyPunch/status/1857229472187011459

    While Paul is reportedly set to earn £31 million and Tyson’s purse is half that, questions linger about the motivations behind the match-up. Critics have highlighted Paul’s history of facing carefully selected opponents and unsubstantiated allegations of predetermined outcomes in his fights. Tyson, meanwhile, had declared in 2005 that he no longer had the “heart and stomach” for the sport and was fighting only to pay bills.

    “I am not going to disrespect the sport any more by losing to this calibre of fighter,” Tyson said after his last fight.

    Paul, who suffered a loss to Briton Tommy Fury in 2020, faces his oldest opponent yet, with many viewing the fight as a strategic contest for Paul and a nostalgic return for Tyson. Fans are left wondering if Tyson will stick to his recent advice: “Don’t follow the script, Mike.”

  • Govt raked in over GHC9.8bn in taxes from telecom sector in 2023 – Ken Ashigbey

    Govt raked in over GHC9.8bn in taxes from telecom sector in 2023 – Ken Ashigbey

    The government of Ghana received over GH₵9.83 billion in taxes and other payments from the telecom sector in 2023, representing a significant 30% increase from the GH₵6 billion collected in 2022.

    This contribution accounted for approximately 7.38% of Ghana’s total revenue for the year, according to the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications.

    Speaking at the launch of the Transparency Initiative Report, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, highlighted the sector’s pivotal role in driving economic growth.

    “Telecom chambers are really contributing massively to Ghana’s economy. As we can see, these taxes paid to the government is a progressive tax,” he stated.

    Dr. Ashigbey further elaborated on the scale of the telecom sector’s financial contributions, adding:
    “If you put together the total taxes that we bear and other remittances that we made to other government agencies, the total is GH₵9.8 billion in 2023. And this contribution forms about 7.4 per cent of government total revenue.”

    The report also revealed that the telecom sector provided 2,464 direct jobs in 2023, slightly down from the 2,600 jobs created in 2022.

    The figures were part of the Transparency Initiative Report, a collaborative effort by the Ghana Telecommunications Chamber and the Electronic Money Issuers Chamber of Ghana. The report underscores the economic impact of the telecom industry, detailing its significant contributions to national revenue and employment.

  • Measles cases surge by 20%, infecting 10.3 million people in 2023 – WHO

    Measles cases surge by 20%, infecting 10.3 million people in 2023 – WHO

    Global measles cases surged by 20% in 2023, infecting an estimated 10.3 million people, according to new data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    The rise in cases, attributed to inadequate vaccination coverage, underscores the urgent need to address global immunization gaps.

    Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, more than 22 million children missed their first dose in 2023. Only 83% of children worldwide received the first dose of the measles vaccine last year, while just 74% received the critical second dose. WHO stresses that 95% coverage of two doses is necessary to prevent outbreaks and safeguard communities from this highly contagious disease.

    “The measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other vaccine in the past 50 years,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “To stop this deadly virus and protect the most vulnerable, we must ensure immunization for everyone, no matter where they live.”

    Death Toll

    Measles remains deadly, with an estimated 107,500 people—mostly children under five—dying from the disease in 2023. While this represents an 8% decrease from 2022, the high mortality rate emphasizes the dire consequences of vaccination gaps. Survivors of measles often face severe complications, including blindness, pneumonia, and encephalitis, leading to long-term health issues.

    Ghana’s Immunization Response

    In Ghana, the fight against measles took center stage last month when the Ghana Health Service launched a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting children aged nine to 59 months. The campaign, held from October 2 to October 6, 2024, aimed to prevent outbreaks following eight confirmed cases in the Volta Region earlier this year.

    Regional and Global Impacts

    Large or disruptive outbreaks were reported in 57 countries in 2023, nearly a 60% increase from 36 countries in 2022. The WHO African, Eastern Mediterranean, and South-East Asia regions were hardest hit, with Africa accounting for nearly half of the significant outbreaks.

    While 82 countries achieved or maintained measles elimination by the end of 2023, progress remains fragile. Recent successes, such as Brazil’s revalidation as a measles-free country, highlight the importance of high vaccination coverage and robust health systems.

    Strengthening Global Efforts

    WHO and CDC emphasize the need for urgent and targeted vaccination campaigns, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected regions. Strengthening disease surveillance and improving routine immunization programs are critical to mitigating outbreaks and accelerating progress toward global measles elimination.

    The alarming increase in measles cases calls for collective global action to protect vulnerable populations and meet the elimination goals outlined in the Immunization Agenda 2030.

  • Ghana’s MPOX cases surges to 3, latest recorded in Accra

    Ghana’s MPOX cases surges to 3, latest recorded in Accra

    A third case of MPOX has been confirmed in Ghana, this time in the Greater Accra Region, bringing the country’s recent total to three cases.

    Dr. Dennis Laryea, Deputy Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), shared that the latest case was detected last week and that investigations in the region have not identified further cases among contacts, though monitoring continues.

    The first case of MPOX this year in Ghana was reported in August in the Western Region, with 25 contacts identified. Shortly after, a second case was confirmed involving the mother of the initial patient, raising concerns about the virus’s spread.

    MPOX, also known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). It is part of the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family, sharing characteristics with other poxviruses like smallpox. Symptoms often include a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and muscle aches.

    The virus typically spreads through close contact, including skin-to-skin or respiratory droplets, and can also be contracted through contact with contaminated objects or animal scratches and bites.

    The GHS has assured the public that necessary preventive measures are being taken to monitor the situation closely. However, individuals are advised to practice caution, particularly in close-contact environments, and to observe hygiene practices to reduce transmission risks.

  • Akufo-Addo conferred with “Grand Officier de la Légion d’Honneur” title by Macron

    Akufo-Addo conferred with “Grand Officier de la Légion d’Honneur” title by Macron

    The President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has been conferred with the prestigious title of Grand Officier de la Légion d’Honneur by the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron.

    The award ceremony was held in Paris today after an official working lunch between President Macron and President Akufo-Addo to deepen the bond between France and Ghana.

    The Grand Officier de la Légion d’Honneur is one of the highest ranks within France’s Légion d’Honneur, an order of merit established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte. It is awarded for outstanding military and civil service to the nation. Conferred by the President of France, it is one of the most revered symbols of French appreciation and respect.

    The outgoing West African president was honoured for his role in strengthening Ghana’s relations with France, paving the way for increased cooperation on critical issues such as economic growth, climate action, education, and cultural exchange.

    France’s relations with Ghana, which are historically less strong than with the Francophone countries of West Africa, have been growing in recent years, particularly with the presidential visit in 2017.

    France and Ghana consult one another on West African security and political issues. The two countries are also in contact in the framework of the United Nations Security Council, where Ghana has been a non-permanent member since 1 January 2022, notably concerning the consequences of the conflict in Ukraine.

    In January 2021, President Nana Akufo-Addo attended, alongside French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian, the inauguration of the Embassy of France in Accra, just after his inauguration for a second term.

    The Ghanaian President also visited Paris in November 2021, on the sidelines of the Paris Peace Forum. He was also present, as Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, alongside the French President and the European Council President, Charles Michel, during the announcement of the re-organization of the French counter-terrorism disposition in West Africa.

    In October 2022, President Akufo-Addo received an honorary doctorate from Paris-Panthéon Sorbonne University, in the presence, notably, of Minister of State Chrysoula Zacharopoulou. He also met the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Catherine Colonna.

    According to the Ministère de l’Europe et des Affaires Étrangères, as of January 2023, more than 70 French companies are currently present in Ghana, with investment stock of €1.3 billion, making it the seventh-largest destination for French foreign direct investment in Africa and the fourth-largest in ECOWAS.

    The largest investment in the country is that of Bolloré, in partnership with Maersk, for the Tema seaport expansion project.

    The Agence Française de Développement (AFD, French Development Agency) has an office in Accra and is active in various fields in the country, primarily through non-sovereign loans. The AFD has financed structural projects, like the Kumasi-Bolgatanga electrical line, which has enabled many Ghanaians to receive electricity, particularly in rural areas.

    This line, tied in with the electrical interconnection between Ghana and Burkina Faso, was inaugurated by President Nana Akufo-Addo in October 2022. The AFD is also active in the north-west of the country in the development of irrigation networks, to help Ghanaian farmers improve yields. By providing several banks with the SUNREF credit line (€30 million), the AFD helps many SMEs finance investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

    https://twitter.com/i/status/1857084241013543418

  • NPP has totally failed to deliver on the cocoa roads – Joyce Bawah

    NPP has totally failed to deliver on the cocoa roads – Joyce Bawah

    Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the Campaign Spokesperson and Special Aide to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government for failing to deliver on its promises to improve roads in Ghana’s main cocoa-producing region.

    In a post on X on Wednesday, November 13, she described the roads leading to the Western Region as severely neglected, emphasizing the negative impact this has had on farmers and the cocoa trade. She noted that the poor infrastructure not only disrupts the transport of cocoa—a major export for Ghana—but also jeopardizes the livelihoods of those who depend on the industry.

    Madam Bawah assured that the NDC, under John Mahama’s leadership, is committed to addressing this issue if elected, stating that prioritizing road rehabilitation would help boost the local economy and support cocoa farmers in the Western Region.

    “The Cocoa Board, Cocoa Research Institute, the Produce Buying Company, and other ancillary organizations associated with cocoa growing and production are all located in the Capital City of Ghana. Even the roads leading to the region are in a terribly deplorable condition.”

    She added, “So when John Mahama proposed to reconstruct and rehabilitate road infrastructure for our cocoa-growing areas, it was a very important intervention meant to improve access, infrastructure quality, and the environment around cocoa farming communities.”

    “But alas our opponents won the 2016 elections, thanks to lies and propaganda, and in the last eight years, the NPP has totally failed to deliver on the cocoa roads. After all the failed promises—1D1F, one million dollars per constituency, etc.—Ghana’s cocoa-growing communities have been short-changed and have grown poorer under Akufo-Addo and Bawumia,” she stated.

    Her remarks come amid growing calls for infrastructure improvements in key agricultural areas.

  • Cashew farmers ‘fight’ for increased producer price after 3.33% surge in cocoa price

    Cashew farmers ‘fight’ for increased producer price after 3.33% surge in cocoa price

    Cashew farmers in Wenchi, a town in the Bono Region, are urging President Nana Akufo-Addo to instruct the Tree Crop Development Authority (TCDA) to set and announce a minimum producer price for raw cashew nuts (RCNs) ahead of the December 7 general election.

    Their appeal follows a recent 3.3% increase in cocoa prices, which has sparked hope for similar consideration for cashew producers. As of March 25, 2024, the price for raw cashew nuts stands at GH₵8.21 per kilogram.

    According to the farmers, announcing a fixed minimum price for the 2024-2025 cashew season before the election would allow stakeholders in the cashew value chain to operate with greater confidence and stability. Led by the National Chairman of the Cashew Farmers Association, Nana Adu Boamponsem V, the farmers voiced their concerns during an interaction with journalists in Wenchi over the weekend.

    Nana Boamponsem stated, “If the minimum producer price for cashew is fixed before the election on December 7, it will be binding for the next government irrespective of the political party that will form the government.”

    He suggested that factors such as the current cedi-to-dollar exchange rate and the international market price for RCNs should be considered when setting the price.

    “Currently, the cost of producing cashews has multiplied, and if the TCDA does not consider all the necessary indicators before fixing the price, it will adversely affect us, the farmers,” Nana Boamponsem added.

    The farmers also expressed disappointment that, aside from establishing the TCDA, the government has yet to fulfill other promises made to cashew growers.

    “We have heard that other tree crop farmers have received some support from the government, but those of us cultivating cashews have not had anything,” Boamponsem noted, urging the TCDA and government to support cashew farmers in reaching a production target of 400,000 metric tons of RCNs within four years.

    The government, he added, should honor its pledge to elevate the cashew sector, similar to how cocoa has become one of Ghana’s top foreign exchange earners.

    Secretary of the farmers, Yahaya Bellu, also called on the government to permit foreign buyers to purchase directly from farms or cooperatives if local buyers fail to pay the established minimum price. He emphasized that cashew farmers would consider their options in the upcoming election if their demands are unmet.

    The demands from cashew farmers come shortly after cocoa farmers celebrated a price increase, with President Akufo-Addo recently raising the cocoa producer price from GH₵3,000 to GH₵3,100 per 64kg bag for the 2024/2025 crop season.

    This adjustment, equivalent to GH₵49,600 per tonne, was designed to better reflect market conditions and offer additional support to cocoa producers.

    A section of the general public believes this adjustment is to sway electorates to vote for the ruling party in the upcoming elections.

  • NAFCO, Lamens Investments Africa implicated in supply of expired repackaged food stuff to SHSs

    NAFCO, Lamens Investments Africa implicated in supply of expired repackaged food stuff to SHSs

    A parliamentary oversight investigation led by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has exposed a scheme in which Lamens Investments Africa and the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) allegedly repackaged over 15,000 50kg bags of expired and contaminated rice.

    This rice, originally packaged with clear expiry dates, was reportedly rebranded in bags lacking expiration information and distributed to Senior High Schools (SHSs) across Ghana, raising serious concerns about the health risks posed to students. According to reports, Bolgatanga Girls’ Senior High School in the Upper East Region and Presbyterian Boys’ Senior High School in Accra, which serves as a central distribution point for SHSs in Greater Accra, received the repackaged rice.

    Mr. Ablakwa revealed that, despite warnings from school administrators, the rice was still delivered to the institutions. In a Facebook post, he shared that the Ashanti Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) was alerted to the unauthorized rebranding on December 20, 2023, after receiving a tip from a concerned Ghanaian citizen.

    “This unauthorized re-packaging was shockingly being carried out at the storage facility of the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) in the Ashanti Region. When FDA officials acted on the alert, it emerged that a similar alert had been received by the Ashanti Regional Police Command, and the command had promptly moved in to close the storage facility. The FDA and the Ashanti Regional Police Command then commenced investigations into the matter,” he stated.

    An intercepted FDA report, signed by its Ashanti Regional Head John Laryea Odai-Tettey, disclosed that Lamens Investments Africa and NAFCO, upon realizing that the best-before date for Moshosho Rice was approaching in December 2023, started repackaging the rice from its original yellow 50kg bags into new white bags labeled “CEDAO ECOWAS Regional Food Security Reserve.”

    The new packaging omitted expiration dates, contravening the General Labelling Regulation, LI 1541, as well as obscuring the country of origin. Originally from India, the rice was deceptively labeled as a Ghanaian product, misleading consumers to believe it was a locally-sourced item.

    “This illegal re-packaging was carried out without FDA’s approval as required by law. The National Food Buffer Stock storage facility had neither been licensed for storage or re-packaging contrary to the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851). It was determined that the NAFCO storage facility had no qualified or trained person to supervise its activities,” the report revealed.

    Mr. Ablakwa also detailed that Lamens Investments Africa Ltd admitted guilt and initially agreed to an administrative fine of GHS100,000. The FDA received GHS50,000 as a 50% deposit on January 5, 2024. However, an intercepted memo from the Ashanti Regional FDA dated December 29, 2023, indicated that the FDA’s original intention was to impose a fine of GHS150,000, dispose of the rice, and halt all repackaging activities immediately. Despite these efforts, intense political pressure allegedly forced a reduction of the fine and halted the FDA’s original course of action. Mr. Ablakwa claimed that Lamens Investments has since refused to pay the remaining fine.

    In a separate intercepted letter dated December 21, 2023, Superintendent J.J. Boye from the Ashanti Regional Police Command wrote to the FDA’s Regional Director to request assistance with examining the repackaged rice. Mr. Ablakwa shared that an “order from above” arrived before FDA test results were received, demanding that the repackaged rice be distributed to schools. Consequently, the contaminated rice reached schools on February 2, 2024, a mere four days prior to receiving official clearance.

    “Shockingly, even before the test results would arrive from FDA-Accra, a reckless order came from above that the re-packaged rice be distributed to Senior High Schools,” Mr. Ablakwa remarked, adding, “The expired and contaminated re-packaged bags of rice were already distributed to schools on the 2nd of February, 2024 — some four days prior.”

    Mr. Ablakwa accused the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) of shielding those involved from accountability. He claimed that Alhaji Hanan Abdul-Wahab, NAFCO’s CEO and NPP Parliamentary Candidate for the Pusiga Constituency, along with NAFCO’s Board Chairman Henry Nana Boakye, who serves as NPP’s National Organizer, received “full protection” amid these allegations. Additionally, he alleged that Lamens Investments Africa Ltd, a company incorporated in 2020 without a proven track record, was single-sourced for the contract.

    The legislator expressed deep concerns about the health impacts on students, citing risks of food poisoning, exposure to carcinogens, and microbial infections. “Considering that the Moshosho rice expired in December 2023 and that distribution to schools was carried out in February 2024, coupled with the fact that these food items are stored over several months before they are completely consumed in dining halls, we can only imagine the levels of contamination by the time the students consumed the entire quantities,” he added.

    He further emphasized that per Act 851, General Labelling Regulation, LI 1541, individuals involved in mislabeling or misbranding food products violate Ghana’s Public Health Act and should face prosecution. Mr. Ablakwa demanded the immediate arrest of Lamens Investments Africa Ltd’s directors and urged sanctions against NAFCO’s management for allowing unregistered storage facilities to operate.

    “The Ministry of Education must be probed for their conduct in this despicable affair — not only for supervising this rot which severely endangers the health of SHS students but also their reported role as alleged by FDA officials that they piled undue pressure to get the FDA to back off,” he continued.

    The legislator assured his resolve to pursue justice, stating, “We shall not rest until justice is done in this matter.” As of now, NAFCO and Lamens Investments Africa are yet to respond to the allegations raised by Mr. Ablakwa.

  • Conduct of Public Officers Bill is a white elephant, will be an inefficient law when passed – OSP

    Conduct of Public Officers Bill is a white elephant, will be an inefficient law when passed – OSP

    The Director of Strategy, Research & Communication at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Samuel Appiah Darko, has voiced strong reservations about the potential effectiveness of the long-pending Conduct of Public Officers (CoPO) Bill, labelling it a “white elephant.”

    Speaking at JoyNews’ “Election and Anti-Corruption” event on Thursday, Darko warned that the bill, if passed without significant amendments, would become just another ineffectual law in Ghana’s legal system.

    “Ghana is a country that has so many laws. But we don’t have efficient laws,” Darko stated. “From me, the Office of the Special Prosecutor, and as a lawyer, I am happy we have not passed the Conduct of Public Officers Bill, although I am in the anti-corruption business, because as it stands now, if we pass it, it will become another white elephant.”

    Darko, a member of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), the University Teachers Association of Ghana, and the Ghana Journalists Association argued that the bill in its current form would undermine the OSP’s role in addressing corruption. He highlighted concerns that many of the offences covered under the CoPO Bill would be redirected to the Attorney-General’s office rather than the OSP, the very institution created to independently tackle corruption cases.

    “We are in this country and we say that we are worried that the Attorney-General is sometimes conflicted and unable to prosecute his own, that is why we came up with the Office of the Special Prosecutor. But all the offences that the Conduct of Public Officers Bill will go to the Attorney-General,” he stated.

    According to Darko, the bill requires amendments to ensure that corruption-related offences can be managed by the OSP rather than solely by the Attorney-General. “Other than that, it will not work,” he added.

    The Conduct of Public Officers Bill, first proposed in 2008, is intended to introduce reforms in asset and liability declarations, address conflicts of interest, and establish a code of conduct for public officials. President Akufo-Addo has assured Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) that the bill will be enacted before the end of his tenure, but delays have raised concerns. The Cabinet maintains that existing laws are sufficient to regulate public officers’ conduct, yet many in the public and civil society argue that the bill is essential for addressing corruption effectively.

    A coalition of CSOs, including OccupyGhana, the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), and the Citizen’s Movement Against Corruption (CMaC), is urging the Cabinet to expedite approval of the CoPO Bill for enactment. They have called on Ghanaians, other CSOs, and the media to advocate for the bill, arguing that the delays reflect a lack of political will to address corruption.

    Nicholas Opoku, Legal and Governance Policy Analyst at CDD-Ghana, has also expressed concerns regarding the bill’s current structure, noting that it does not sufficiently address the weaknesses in the existing regulatory framework, including Chapter 24 of the 1992 Constitution and the Public Office Holders (Declaration of Assets and Disqualification) Act, 1998 (Act 550). In September 2020, Opoku pointed to key issues such as the narrow definition of a public officer, inadequate transparency in asset declaration processes, and the absence of rigorous verification mechanisms.

    The CSOs insist that the passage of the CoPO Bill is critical for enhancing transparency and accountability within Ghana’s public sector. They warn that failure to pass a robust and enforceable bill could perpetuate public distrust in the government’s commitment to combating corruption.

  • Video of yet to be commissioned Flower Pot Interchange pops up

    Video of yet to be commissioned Flower Pot Interchange pops up

    A footage of the yet-to-be-commissed Flower Pot Interchange which has stalled for almost 8 years has emerged online.

    Last week, the director of communications at the presidency, Eugene Kofi Bentum Arhin, indicated that the interchange would be commissioned on November 19 by President Akufo-Addo.

    The video sighted on the X platform shows some artwork done.

    The 800-metre flyover project, which commenced on March 7, 2017, starts from the Palace Mall and ends on the East Legon Boundary Road. The project includes the construction of 802 meters of dual carriageway for the viaduct with asphaltic concrete surfacing, along with 140 meters of ramp built from Shiashie onto the viaduct towards Airport Hills and 80 meters of ramp from the viaduct onto the motorway towards Tema.

    Additionally, a new road has been created through the old tunnel at East Legon, and 200 meters of road have been added to connect to Cantonments from the Giffard Road Interchange. The Flowerpot roundabout and its approaches have been redesigned, and pedestrian walkways have been included on both sides of the flyover. The project also features road furniture such as streetlights, road markings, and traffic signals.

    When opened, it would improve traffic connectivity between the north and south of the Motorway. It would ease movement from areas, including Cantonments and Burma Camp to East Legon, Spintex and Tema and improve the general life of the people who ply these areas.

    The road network within the Municipality has deteriorated rapidly in recent years because of the reconstruction of the Beach Road, which led to the use of the inner roads to divert the traffic. These roads include Tsui Bleoo, Fertilizer, King Kotey, A Street, 3rd Avenue, Ford, and Nuumo Maashie Roads.

    Government secured funding from Afrexim Bank and contracted China Railway No. 5 Engineering Gh. Ltd for a 93-month to undertake the project. Deoke Consult Ltd is the consultant for the project.

    https://twitter.com/BureauNpp/status/1856855699386483123

  • Over 200 wooden structures at Circle Odawna saved in fire outbreak

    Over 200 wooden structures at Circle Odawna saved in fire outbreak

    A fire incident on Thursday morning led to the destruction of about 15 wooden structures used for domestic and commercial purposes at Circle Odawna in Accra.

    Engaging the media, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) noted that its officers managed to salvage more than 200 wooden structures.

    Assistant Division Officer (ADO1) Alex King Nartey from the Public Affairs Department of the GNFS said, “Fortunately, our team at Circle, just a few minutes away from the scene got there in good time in about 5 minutes.”

    “The unfortunate thing was that because the fire was just at the edge of the Odawna gutter, it was difficult for them to get access to the place. The fire tender couldn’t get to the scene.”

    The team parked at an adjourning warehouse and fixed their waterlines to get to the scene to douse the flame. He noted that the fire was fast spreading and the team’s focus was to mitigate the damage caused and protect buildings close by.

    “We were able to salvage over 200 wooden structures and the adjourning warehouses,” Alex King Nartey said.

    The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Victims are in a devastating state as they assess the extent of the damage caused.

  • Ghanaians should give Bawumia a chance, he is the best – Kufuor

    Ghanaians should give Bawumia a chance, he is the best – Kufuor

    Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has urged Ghanaians to give Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia a chance in the upcoming election, describing him as the best candidate to lead the country through its current challenges.

    Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Kufuor praised Bawumia’s capabilities and expressed unwavering confidence in his leadership.

    “I was attacked for calling Bawumia ‘a Man of Destiny,’ but I know why I said that. I think he’s the best man Ghana needs at this moment in our history. Ghanaians should give Bawumia a chance,” Kufuor stated.

    The former president emphasized Bawumia’s vision and expertise, highlighting his deep understanding of Ghana’s economic landscape and innovative approach to governance.

    According to Kufuor, Bawumia’s leadership would be invaluable in advancing Ghana’s development and addressing complex economic issues.

  • The Veep is only an advisor to the President; the govt is the President – Kufuor

    The Veep is only an advisor to the President; the govt is the President – Kufuor

    Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has underscored the structure of Ghana’s executive presidency, stating that the Vice President is merely an advisor to the President, who alone wields decision-making power.

    According to Mr. Kufuor, the President embodies the government, and all others, including the Vice President, serve in advisory roles.

    Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, he remarked, “I have been President before; in Ghana, the government is the President. Ours is an executive presidency. All other persons in government are only advisors including the Vice President.”

    His comments come amid recent statements from Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who, as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, urged Ghanaians to vote him into the presidency, explaining that his ability to implement transformative policies has been limited as Vice President.

    Mr. Kufuor’s remarks emphasize that executive power in Ghana resides solely with the President, limiting the Vice President’s role to offering counsel.

    The former president also addressed criticisms directed at Dr. Bawumia for Ghana’s current economic challenges, noting that the Vice President’s advisory position does not equip him with the authority to enact policy. Kufuor reiterated that true power lies with the President, who alone can initiate substantial reforms to advance the country.

  • CNN reporters working on ‘galamsey’ report almost stopped by bad road in Western Region

    CNN reporters working on ‘galamsey’ report almost stopped by bad road in Western Region

    CNN’s International Correspondent, Larry Madowo, and his crew, who have visited Ghana to work on a report on illegal mining activities in the country faced a minor setback.

    On their way to a location in the Western Region, they encountered a road path that appeared unmotorable. A part of the road was submerged by water.

    Shocked and scared, a crew member disembarked from the tricycle that was commuting them. The tricycle spent some minutes in the muddy water before finding its way out.

    “We went to rural Ghana to report on galamsey – illegal small scale gold mining. When the full report airs on CNN, you’ll know how hectic it was to get there,” Larry Madowo posted on X in reaction to the incident.

    https://twitter.com/LarryMadowo/status/1856294735264022598

    Many Ghanaians have hurled criticism against the Akufo-Addo-led government over its failure to fixing the bad roads in the country and ending illegal mining. Prior to assuming office, then presidential candidate for the NPP – now president, Nana Akufo-Addo put his presidency on the line to address illegal mining activities.

    Several initiatives such as halting operations of small-scale miners, Operation Halt and laws to ban mining in restricted areas were implemented, however, none of these have been able to address the underlying issues.

    In recent years, Ghanaians have witnessed brutal destruction of water bodies such as Pra River, River Oti and forest reserves by audacious illegal miners. Such actions have hindered the continuous supply of water to some areas in the country and the situation could worsen should galamsey not be addressed, according to the Ghana Water Company Limited.

    Amid public criticism, some Ghanaians hit the streets to protest against the government to finally take pragmatic steps to address galamsey. Some sections of the public called for the suspension of mining of small-scale miners to enable affected water bodies recover. This request has however been shot down by the government due to the economic benefits in foreign exchange that Ghana derives from gold production and exportation.

  • Akua Donkor’s face on ballot papers will create electoral controversy – Kofi Akpaloo

    Akua Donkor’s face on ballot papers will create electoral controversy – Kofi Akpaloo

    Flagbearer of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Kofi Akpaloo, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to reprint the presidential ballot papers for the 2024 elections, expressing concerns over the inclusion of deceased Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) candidate, Akua Donkor.

    Akpaloo argues that featuring Akua Donkor’s image on the ballot could impact the election outcome, potentially causing confusion among voters.

    “Having a ballot paper with Akua Donkor’s picture is going to create a whole lot of problems in the country. People are going to vote for Akua Donkor, of whom we are all aware that she is not alive, so how are they going to do the counting? Because with the presidential polls, we do the calculations based on the percentage garnered by each candidate,” Akpaloo stated at a press conference on Wednesday, November 13.

    He further explained, “Are we going to say that those votes that were cast for her will be taken off the ballot or are they going to be counted? We don’t want a situation whereby a losing candidate will say he will not accept the results because of percentages, and so we are asking the EC to reprint new ballot papers without Akua Donkor’s picture on them.”

    Electoral Commission of Ghana has clarified the decision to retain the image of the late Akua Donkor on the presidential ballot paper for the 2024 presidential election.

    During an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the Chairperson, Jean Mensa, explained that although Akua Donkor has passed away and Philip Appiah Kubi, the replacement flagbearer for the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), has been disqualified due to errors and alleged irregularities discovered in his nomination documents, the Commission has chosen not to reorder the ballot positions to avoid delays and additional costs associated with reprinting.

    “We are almost 90 percent complete with the printing of presidential ballots, and you are also aware that following the passing of Madam Akua Donkor, we requested the printing houses to cease printing until the law had taken its course.

    “Now that the presidential candidate has been disqualified, the Commission wants to inform you that the positions will proceed on the current ballot as it is in the interest of time and to save this country millions of cedis,” she stated.

    Akpaloo however emphasizes that a reprint would not only uphold the integrity of the ballot but also eliminate any grounds for post-election disputes tied to this issue.

    He added that if a new GFP candidate had been approved, the EC would have made the necessary adjustments to the ballot, underscoring the need for similar action in light of Donkor’s passing.

    Akua Donkor died on Monday, October 28, 2024, at Ridge Hospital in Accra, just weeks before the nation’s general elections.

  • We don’t need more MPs to solve Ghana’s problems – Kofi Koranteng

    We don’t need more MPs to solve Ghana’s problems – Kofi Koranteng

    Independent presidential candidate Kofi Koranteng has asserted that Ghana does not need an increasing number of Members of Parliament (MPs) to address its challenges, emphasizing that the current 275 MPs lack the mental capacity to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

    According to Koranteng, the country’s large legislative body has failed to deliver results, and instead of more representatives, he believes the nation should prioritize technological advancements for better governance.

    “They don’t have the mental capacity. Maybe they will hear and listen, but they won’t be able to do anything,” he said during an interview on Joy News’ AM Show on Wednesday, November 13.

    Koranteng argued that even with the existing number of MPs, critical issues remain unaddressed, underscoring that “you could bring in Alibaba, Mark Zuckerberg, or any of these guys, and they could run the whole of Ghana. Yet, you have 275 MPs, and they are still twiddling their fingers, biting their fingernails, and wanting to split this country up by bringing in more people (MPs) because they think more MPs will mean more progress.”

    Advocating for a shift in governance strategy, Koranteng explained that in this era of “humanoids, robotics, and quantum computing,” adding more MPs is unnecessary, as technological tools could enhance efficiency and reduce the need for a large parliamentary body.

    When host Benjamin Akakpo described his remarks as a “low blow” to legislators, Koranteng stood by his position, responding, “The problem is we don’t want to accept the truth.”

    Koranteng, who has previously criticized the current administration’s handling of illegal mining issues, reiterated his commitment to transforming Ghana if elected president in the December elections. He further argued that President Nana Addo and his ministers should be held accountable for failing to address the ongoing illegal mining crisis, which he believes has severely impacted the nation’s resources.

  • Lamens Investments Africa Directors must be arrested for providing expired foods to SHSs – Ablakwa

    Lamens Investments Africa Directors must be arrested for providing expired foods to SHSs – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on the government to take immediate action against the directors of Lamens Investments Africa for supplying expired food items to Senior High Schools (SHSs) across the country.

    Ablakwa expressed outrage over the disturbing revelation, urging the authorities to arrest those responsible for jeopardizing the health and safety of students.

    He criticized the government for its failure to effectively oversee the food supply chain to SHSs, a sector that is vital to the well-being of the nation’s youth. The expired food scandal, which has raised serious concerns about the integrity of school food suppliers, demands swift accountability, according to Ablakwa.

    Ablakwa’s investigation further reveals that political heavyweights within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) were involved in the cover-up. Alhaji Hanan Abdul-Wahab, CEO of NAFCO, and the NPP’s National Organizer, Henry Nana Boakye, are named in the scandal.

    The MP’s statement comes after reports surfaced of Lamens Investments Africa providing food items that were past their expiration date to various schools, endangering the students’ health and violating food safety standards.

    Lamens Investments Africa, which had no previous track record, was awarded a sole-source contract for the rice supply, raising questions about corrupt deals within the government, Mr Ablakwa wrote in his post on Facebook.

    Despite admitting guilt and paying part of a GHS 100,000 fine, Lamens Investments has reportedly not paid the full fine, and pressure from above prevented the FDA from fully addressing the matter. According to an internal memo, the initial plan to destroy the contaminated rice was thwarted, and the rice was distributed to SHS students.

    Meanwhile, Lamens Investments Africa is yet to react to the findings put out by the legislator.

  • Agrochemicals are a necessary evil; must be used responsibly – Agronomist

    Agrochemicals are a necessary evil; must be used responsibly – Agronomist

    At the 24th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Ghana Institute of Horticulturists, Daniel Attivor, an agronomist and consultant for Anglo Gulf FZE – Dubai, emphasized the critical yet cautious role of agrochemicals in modern agriculture.

    Speaking at the event held at the Gardiner Hall, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, he described agrochemicals as a “necessary evil,” essential for enhancing crop production but requiring responsible use to mitigate health and environmental risks.

    In his address, Mr Attivor outlined the significant benefits of agrochemicals like Glyphosate (herbicide), Pyrethroids (insecticides), Triazoles (fungicides), and nitrogen-based fertilizers. “Herbicides can increase yield by 20-30% through effective weed control,” he noted, referencing data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

    Similarly, insecticides contribute a 15-25% yield increase by minimizing pest damage (Source: EPA), while fungicides and fertilizers boost yields by 10-20% and 50-100%, respectively (Source: CropLife, IFDC). These gains, he argued, are vital for food security and addressing malnutrition.

    However, Attivor stressed that while genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can help address hunger, their use must be approached carefully. “We can’t completely say GMO is not good,” he remarked, advocating for a balanced approach. “But we must use it responsibly and not say that we don’t have to go there at all.”

    Mr Attivor also highlighted the health hazards associated with improper agrochemical use, referencing World Health Organization (WHO) data that links toxic chemical exposure to cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive issues. He pointed out that pesticide exposure contributes to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and ALS, with 10% of all neurological disorders worldwide attributed to such exposure (Source: EPA, WHO).

    Furthermore, he noted that exposure to pesticides during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects, miscarriage, and infertility, with WHO estimating that 5% of birth defects worldwide stem from pesticide exposure (Source: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences).

    “Everyone is at risk,” Attivor emphasized, underscoring the importance of responsible agrochemical usage despite their necessity in agriculture.

    The economic benefits of agrochemicals also come with hidden costs, he said, such as environmental degradation and health impacts. Attivor cited an FAO study estimating that sustainable agricultural practices could yield global economic benefits of up to $1.5 trillion annually.

    He advocated for sustainable approaches, like precision agriculture and crop rotation, as well as regulatory frameworks that promote responsible chemical management. As an example, he mentioned the European Union’s pesticide reduction strategy, which led to a 12% decrease in agrochemical usage since 2010.

    Dr. Hilary Mireku Botey from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) supported these points, urging proper agrochemical usage to protect both farmers and consumers. He emphasized the need for education and awareness among farmers and recommended the use of protective clothing. “That is one way we can protect our health,” Dr. Botey said.

    The Ghana Institute of Horticulturists, as part of its mandate, aims to advance horticulture in Ghana by promoting professional standards, encouraging research, and fostering information exchange. Its objectives include publishing horticulture-related materials, supporting horticultural research, and establishing a platform for horticultural crop studies. The institute also emphasized building human resource capacity and developing dedicated research institutes to support sustainable practices in the industry.

  • Ability to generate wealth depends on one’s attitude – McDan

    Ability to generate wealth depends on one’s attitude – McDan

    Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, Dr. Daniel McKorley, has emphasized that an individual’s attitude plays a crucial role in their ability to generate wealth.

    Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show, Dr. McKorley underscored the importance of fostering a mindset of hard work, self-reliance, and entrepreneurship, especially among the youth.

    “There is no specific formula for making money. Rather, the ability to generate wealth depends largely on an individual’s attitude,” he stated. Dr. McKorley elaborated that many businesses, often overlooked or underestimated, can generate significant income in ways that may not be immediately obvious.

    To illustrate his point, he shared a story about a woman who received an interest-free loan of 10,000 cedis to expand her kenkey and fried fish business. Despite initial doubts, the woman achieved sales of 6,000 cedis within three months, demonstrating the impact of a determined mindset in business.

    Job creation, Dr. McKorley noted, is a cause close to his heart. He lamented that many people feel their social status or education level limits their potential in business. “Regardless of whether you are literate or not, anyone can bring their business ideas forward,” he explained. “You don’t need formal schooling to present a business idea, and we are ready to coach and support you.”

    He emphasized that the primary objective of his company’s business challenge isn’t just about prize money, but about fostering strong individuals behind business ideas. “The goal is to create champions, create jobs, and change the mindset and mentality of the youth out there,” he said.

    After winners are selected and awarded prize money, Dr. McKorley’s team continues to guide and monitor their progress to ensure sustainable success. “We don’t just give money and walk away,” he explained. “We follow the individual, visit their business, engage with them, and ensure they are properly supported as they grow their enterprise.”

    Dr. McKorley expressed his strong belief that a positive attitude, self-reliance, and hard work are essential qualities for the next generation of entrepreneurs. By encouraging these traits, he hopes to inspire a wave of innovation and job creation across the country.

  • It is a one-touch victory for NDC in 2024 elections – Mahama

    It is a one-touch victory for NDC in 2024 elections – Mahama

    The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has declared that the NDC will secure a one-touch victory in the upcoming 2024 elections, urging Ghanaians to vote overwhelmingly for the party to ensure a decisive win.

    Mahama called on supporters to turn out in large numbers to deliver a resounding mandate, emphasizing that a strong victory is essential for implementing the changes they envision for the nation.

    He highlighted the need for vigilance throughout the electoral process, urging all Ghanaians, especially NDC supporters, to stay alert and actively protect their ballots from any potential interference to guarantee a fair outcome.

    The former President likened the NDC’s campaign to a “communal labour,” stressing the importance of collective effort in securing victory. He described the campaign as a nationwide movement that requires the commitment of every supporter, united in the mission to “rescue” the country from its current challenges.

    In his remarks, Mahama expressed concerns about the judiciary’s impartiality if the election results were to be challenged in court. He suggested that the NDC might not receive a fair hearing, underscoring the urgency for vigilance and the need for a clear, unquestionable victory.

    “We have to win with a huge margin so that they will not think of going to the court. Because they have packed the courts with their people, and we will not get justice,” he stated.

    “This election, we are winning one touch at the polling station. We are not going to the court,” Mahama declared.

    He concluded by encouraging party members and supporters to remain focused, united, and determined in the final phase of the campaign.

    Mahama reiterated that the NDC’s success depends not only on a strong electoral showing but also on the unwavering commitment of supporters to protect their votes and ensure a transparent and credible election process.