Following the launch of the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs programme, the government has called on traditional authorities nationwide to help expand the reach of the programme.
The Ministry of Information, in a statement dated September 8, 2023, mentioned that “President Akufo-Addo will on Saturday engage with members of the National House of Chiefs as part of efforts to make large tracts of land available for farming”.
The statement continued that “the President expects that the support of the Chiefs will further enhance efforts to make the programme successful. With about 80% of Ghana’s land being customary ownership by chiefs and families, it is acknowledged that chiefs have the power to allocate, lease, or sell land for various purposes”.
“Planting for Food and Jobs,” one of the government’s flagship programme that focuses on promoting food self-sufficiency, increasing agricultural productivity, and creating employment opportunities in the agricultural sector.
It also focuses on providing support to farmers through the distribution of improved seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs, as well as offering extension services and market access. It is designed to enhance food production, reduce food imports, and ultimately improve food security and the livelihoods of Ghanaian farmers.
Phase Two of the programme was launched at the University for Development Studies on Monday, August 28, 2023. This is designed to build upon the achievements of the first phase. It is a five-year master plan aimed at transforming agriculture in Ghana, with a primary focus on modernization.
This modernization will be achieved through the development of specific commodity value chains and the active involvement of the private sector. The first phase of the “Planting for Food and Jobs” programme was launched by President Akufo-Addo on April 19, 2017, in Goaso, Ahafo region.
Security analyst Emmanuel Kotin has urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to instruct Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo-Dampare to temporarily step down while a Commission of Inquiry is established on the sides to probe the matters of concern arising from the public hearing on the leaked tape on the ousting of the IGP.
His comments come after the police service announced, in a statement dated September 8, 2023, that it had rescinded its decision to interdict the three police officers who have been fingered in the IGP ousting case.
He said the revocation of the interdiction is proof that the IGP solely took this decision without consulting the right authorities as
“A decision that was taken in good faith was overturned in 24 hours, it means that the decision was not taken with a broader consensus, as laid down by the Police Administrative Act.
“I’m convinced in my mind that proper consultations were not done, and this decision was probably solely taken by the IGP. And to that extent, it means he has taken that decision arbitrarily against the service’s procedure,he said.
Hence, he has called on the president to order the IGP to step down temporarily to aid an independent and accurate probe into the case without compromise.
“The president must ask the IGP to step aside so that we can have an independent investigation into this matter, such that no one will be victimised. No witness will be scared to come forward to give evidence, and the IGP will not be in a position to tamper with witnesses.”
“The bottom line is this: for the sake of national security and the things that are coming out, we need to be very circumspect about how we discuss some of these issues in the public space because of the damning evidence that is trickling in day by day. I think the president needs to step in and put sanity into all of these things”.
Highlighting the gravity of the matter at hand, the security analyst suggests that a commission of inquiry led by a judge and other experts in that regard should take over the investigation, insisting that the IGP is not an angel.
“The matters before us are very serious matters. The parliamentary committee may have to call it a day, and a proper commission of inquiry headed by a good judge should handle the investigation.
“The terms of reference can be widened. We should treat this as a national security crisis, and experts can be invited. It cannot be said that Dampare is an angel; no, he is not.”
The tape on the IGP ousting plot surfaced in Ghana on Tuesday, July 11, 2023.
It was a leaked audio recording of a Police Commissioner and a politician discussing a scheme to depose the IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, ahead of the 2024 general election.
The tape was recorded by Daniel Bugri Naabu, former Northern Regional Chairman of the NPP, in his Osu office during a meeting with affected officers.
The tape caused public outrage and prompted the Speaker of Parliament to constitute a seven-member bipartisan committee to investigate the secret recording.
The committee has up to September 10, 2023, to report back to the House.
Two people from another country who were helping Ukraine have been killed and two others have been hurt in the most recent attack by Russia.
Four people who were helping with relief efforts in Chasiv Yar were in a van on Sunday. The van got hit, flipped over, and caught fire.
The charity helps injured people who had to leave areas where there is fighting. They announced that a Canadian named Anthony Ihnat died in the attack. Additionally, a German medical volunteer named Ruben Mawick and Swedish volunteer named Johan Mathias Thyr were also seriously injured.
The organization Road to Relief couldn’t find their director, Emma Igual, who was from Spain and was also in the van. However, Spain’s acting foreign minister later said they were told verbally that she had passed away.
In eastern Ukraine, the Bakhmut area was attacked by Russia on Sunday, while the capital city of Kyiv experienced many drone attacks.
Serhii Popko, who is in charge of Kyiv’s military administration, said that more than 25 drones were shot down in the early hours of the morning. However, some parts of the drones fell on different areas of the city, and one person got hurt.
The volunteers were going to see what the people on the outskirts of Bakhmut needed. This was happening because Ukraine is fighting back against Russia’s control of the town.
Spanish media has given recognition and praise to Emma Igual.
Spain’s defense minister Margarita Robles expressed her support for the family of the Spanish aid worker and the Ukrainian citizens impacted by these violent acts.
‘Putin is the only person who is responsible. ‘
The temporary minister of Labour, Yolanda Diaz, described Emma as a young woman who strongly believes in human rights and embodies the admirable qualities of our country.
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, who is the leader of the People’s Party, praised Emma for showing commitment, bravery, and kindness while she was in Ukraine. He also expressed his love and support for her family, friends, and colleagues.
Ruben Mawick and Johan Mathias Thyr got hurt really bad but they are now in stable condition in different hospitals that are far away from where it happened, according to El Mundo.
Linda Norgrove, who was from Lewis, was taken by the Taliban in 2010 and passed away while there was an effort to save her.
Her parents started a foundation in her honor to help women and girls in Afghanistan.
The charity wants the UK and Scottish governments to make things easier for female medical students.
The organization said that despite making efforts and talking to both governments, they have not made any progress in bringing the women from Afghanistan to Scotland.
The Scottish government stated that Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth had a meeting with the charity and sent a letter to the Home Office in order to get clear and quick information about the situation.
The UK government said helping eligible Afghans move to a new place is very important.
The Linda Norgrove Foundation, which is located in the Western Isles, received upsetting messages from the students. The messages expressed their concerns about living under the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.
The Taliban came back in charge in August 2021 after the US-led group that was in Afghanistan for almost 20 years left the country.
After that, many strict rules were again put on women in Afghanistan.
The Taliban had said before that they would respect women’s rights in Afghanistan, but only according to Islamic law. Linda Norgrove was a person.
The Linda Norgrove Foundation said that Scotland’s five medical schools agreed last year to allow 20 students to finish their studies.
However, Linda’s dad, John Norgrove, said, “We are getting very annoyed with all the wait times. ”
He said the charity was first told that the pathway for Afghan citizens through the UK’s Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme would start in January.
Mr Norgrove said that they decided to move the date to August, but now they are saying that it won’t open for a while.
He said, “Our students went from learning to be doctors to living a restricted life, where they only do housework and take care of children. ”
They are not allowed to go outside the house without a man with them. Some are scared for their safety and others may be forced to get married without their consent.
“They feel extremely sad and desperately need our assistance. ” Tried to save
The Scottish government asked the UK government for information about what actions it was taking.
A spokesperson said: “We will provide a solution to assist these women by offering them free tuition and financial support for their living expenses.
In Scotland, students from Afghanistan who are part of certain resettlement programs can be considered as local students and receive financial support for living expenses.
We are upset that they haven’t given us this information yet, but we believe the Home Office can find a practical solution.
A spokesperson from the UK government said: “The UK has promised to help people in Afghanistan who are in danger, and we have so far managed to bring around 24,600 at-risk people to safety. This includes thousands of people who are qualified for our programs to resettle Afghan individuals. ”
Helping eligible Afghans move to new homes is very important to us. We are still working with others who have similar intentions and countries that are near Afghanistan to deal with the resettlement problems. Our aim is also to assist eligible individuals in safely reaching their destination.
Linda, who is 36 years old, was in charge of a project by USAID. This project aimed to create jobs and help the economies in unstable parts of Afghanistan.
She was taken against her will in Kunar on September 26, 2010 and unfortunately lost her life when US special forces tried to save her on October 8 of the same year.
A team of investigators from both the United Kingdom and the United States concluded that someone from the American soldiers threw a grenade that caused her death.
Morocco has declared 3 days of mourning, with flags at half-mast, after a powerful earthquake claimed over 2,000 lives and injured thousands.
This decision followed a working session chaired by King Mohammed VI, dedicated to assessing the situation after the earthquake on September 8, which resulted in human and material losses across the kingdom.
The King also instructed the Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs to conduct Absent Prayer (Salat Al Ghaib) in all mosques for the souls of the victims.
Furthermore, he mandated the continuation of relief efforts and the establishment of an inter-ministerial commission for emergency rehabilitation and aid programs to reconstruct the affected areas promptly.
“Provide care to people in distress, notably orphans and vulnerable people; provide immediate care to all people who found themselves without shelter following the earthquake, notably in terms of housing, food and other basic needs; encourage economic operators for a quick resumption of activities in the areas concerned; Open a special bank account at Treasury and Bank Al Maghrib to receive the voluntary solidarity contributions of citizens as well as private and public instructions.”
“Ensure the full mobilization of the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, with all its components, to support citizens in affected areas Create reserves and stocks of basic necessities (medicines, tents, beds, food…etc.) in every region of the Kingdom to prepare for any type of disaster,” the release from the Royal Office said on Saturday.
The Sovereign also conveyed Morocco’s sincere gratitude to all the brotherly and friendly nations that extended their solidarity to the Moroccan people during this situation. Many of these countries have expressed their willingness to offer assistance in these exceptional circumstances.
Present at this working meeting were Government Head Aziz Akhannouch, Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit, Health and Social Protection Minister Khalid Ait Taleb, along with Lieutenant General Mohamed Berrid, Inspector General of the FAR and Commander of the Southern Zone, and Lieutenant General Mohamed Haramou.
Also in attendance were Brigadier General Mohamed Elabbar, Commander of the Royal Gendarmerie, Brigadier General Mohamed Elabbar, Inspector of the FAR Military Health Service, Lieutenant Colonel Ihssane Lotfi, General Director of Civil Protection Abdellatif Hammouchi, General Director of National Security, Director General of National Territory Surveillance Mohamed El Azami, and a coordinator and member of the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity’s Board.
In 2021, researchers found that 40% of white-tailed deer tested in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and New York state had Covid antibodies.
Scientists at Ohio State University have been keeping a close eye on these deer, and their recent study has shown that the virus is still spreading from the deer to humans. And it is changing quickly.
The scientists studied how common Covid was in a small group of white-tailed deer in north-eastern Ohio. The samples were collected from November 2021 to March 2022. Out of 1,522 samples taken from the nose, 163 showed signs of alpha and delta variants of COVID. The researchers also discovered that the virus had spread multiple times from people to deer and from deer to people (known as “spillover”).
Coronaviruses have spikes that attach to our cells to enter and start multiplying. The spikes attach themselves to a specific part of our cells called the ACE2 receptor. Deers and humans have a similar receptor. Coronaviruses have taken advantage of this quickly.
People often come into contact with deer in certain parts of the US. These areas have a large population of white-tailed deer that live in the wild or in urbanized and farmed areas. In these environments, deer may come into contact with human waste. They can carry germs that are resistant to medicine in a similar way as people who live in the same area.
The scientists in Ohio discovered that Covid increased and spread among deer for a period of time. The virus did not cause any noticeable sickness or deaths in the animals. Deer moving around the county, especially male deer, are spreading the virus.
We don’t know if animals like skunks, squirrels, or rodents also got the virus, but we know that it spread from deer to humans. We don’t know how this exchange occurred.
Deer on Staten Island, New York, also had signs of getting infected by a different Covid variant, called omicron, from people in the same timeframe. There are often viral interactions between communities and their deer.
The scientists in Ohio used a new way to study changes in the Covid virus in deer. They found that the virus mutates three times faster in deer compared to humans. The kinds of genetic alterations were different from the ones found in human Covid. The changes in the virus helped it spread more easily among the deer.
Covid changed and spread quickly among people, especially in the first few years after 2019.
Importantly, the transfer of the virus from deer to humans has not led to new outbreaks in humans that are worrying doctors. Changes in Covid in deer populations haven’t created a virus that can escape our antibodies. So right now, there is no danger to the overall public health from this higher rate of mutation.
Just like people, some deer can spread diseases very easily. Social network analysis reveals how male deer use scraping sites to establish breeding groups by leaving their scents behind. Feeding or bait stations created by humans for hunting make viruses spread faster.
White-tailed deer might have Covid viruses. Animal reservoirs refer to the ongoing cycle of viruses dividing and changing. The type of host affects how fast a virus’s genetic material changes. For instance, the flu virus changes faster in birds or pigs compared to humans.
Various factors like the length of time an infected animal lives, the chemical reactions happening in its cells, the body’s defense mechanisms, and the harm caused to the virus’ genetic material by enzymes or other infections can all contribute to viral mutation. For some reasons, these findings from Ohio suggest that the white-tailed deer population might develop a new type of Covid virus that can easily make humans sick.
In the year 2020-21, tests were done on deer in the UK to check if they had Covid. The results showed that there was no sign of the virus in these animals. This might be because different types of deer in Britain have distinct positions in their environment and are more or less prone to getting Covid. However, it is obvious that this continuous monitoring gives helpful information.
Mr Lavrov said that Russia was not expecting everyone to agree, but they saw the agreement on the wording as a positive step.
The G20 statement said it is wrong to use force to take over land, but did not mention Russia’s aggressive actions. Ukraine criticized this.
The meeting that lasted for two days also welcomed the African Union as a new permanent member.
The group of 55 countries is invited by India to join. India wants to include more countries from the Global South in the G20.
The largest economies in the world made important agreements in Delhi. They agreed on issues like climate change and using biofuels. However, some people were upset because they did not agree to stop using fossil fuels.
For the second year in a row, there was no official G20 “family photo”. (Simple words) No explanation was given, but there are reports that many leaders did not want to take pictures, because they were upset about Russia being at the meeting.
Only a small number of people had expected all the countries in the G20 to make a statement together, especially on the first day of the summit. The group is strongly split over Russia’s attack on Ukraine last year. Neither Russia’s Vladimir Putin nor China’s Xi Jinping came to Delhi. Instead, they sent representatives of lower rank.
There was a surprise when, only a few hours after the summit began, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that they had agreed on how to word the part about Ukraine in the statement. This part had criticized Russia last year, but now it was made less strong.
Mr Lavrov said at a press conference on Sunday that an important point had been reached.
To put it simply, we were really surprised. We were prepared to protect our choice of words in the text. He responded to a question from the BBC’s Yogita Limaye by saying that the Global South is no longer interested in being told what to do.
The UK and US also mentioned the joint statement positively, but Ukraine, who participated in last year’s Bali summit but was not included this year, expressed that they were not proud of it. Last year in Bali, most members strongly criticized Russia’s aggressive behavior towards Ukraine. In contrast, the Delhi declaration discusses the harm and negative effects of the war in Ukraine on worldwide food and energy security.
It asks countries to not use violence to try to take land from other countries. This might be talking about Russia, but it says that different people have different opinions about what is going on.
Experts say that the way money and influence are shared among the top 20 economies in the world is changing. It is no longer just the wealthy countries in the Western world that have the most control, but also the big developing countries in Asia.
There were also important events at the summit that focused on making plans to address climate change.
The G20 countries have agreed to work together to increase renewable energy capacity by three times using their current goals and policies. The group represents over 75% of the greenhouse gases discharged worldwide.
India, the United States, and Brazil have come together to create a global alliance for biofuels. The purpose of this alliance is to increase the use of cleaner fuels. The grouping aims to help speed up worldwide efforts to reach the goal of no net emissions by promoting the trading of biofuels made from things like leftover plant and animal materials.
There was also a big agreement between countries in the Middle East and South Asia about building railways and ports, which happened during the summit. The pact is seen as a way to oppose China’s efforts to expand global infrastructure through their Belt and Road project.
On Sunday afternoon, Mr. Modi ended the summit, which had been hyped up and waited for for months. He gave President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil a special hammer, as he is becoming the president.
President Lula focused on the difficulties that developing countries experience in his speech.
“We live in a world where there is a lot of wealth in the hands of a few, while millions of people still don’t have enough to eat. Our efforts towards sustainable development are constantly at risk, and the institutions that govern the world still operate based on outdated ideas from the middle of the previous century,” he said.
Heavy rain during the monsoon spoiled some events that were supposed to happen earlier in the day. Despite the rain, leaders walked in the rain to honor Mahatma Gandhi, who fought for India’s independence, at the place where he was cremated. A ceremony where trees were planted was changed to become a symbolic action where G20 presidents traded young trees among themselves.
Mr Modi’s government has organized a fancy event, where delegates are enjoying cultural performances, a big dinner party, and excellent Indian hospitality.
However, some disagreements arose, particularly when Mr. Modi held up a sign at the beginning of the summit that said “Bharat” (which is the Hindi word for India). This caused some people to wonder if there might be a potential name change for India.
Mr Modi and his ministers said that the event was a big success and showed that India is a strong global leader.
“We have tried our best to include as many people as possible in this G20,” said Foreign Minister S Jaishankar.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that India has successfully made sure that disagreements on certain matters do not take away attention from the important developmental issues that are of concern to the global community.
“She said that India’s G20 Presidency has successfully followed through with its actions”.
Rishi Sunak was under pressure to bring attention to the situation of Jagtar Singh Johal, who is from Dumbarton. His family says that he has been tortured.
Over 70 Members of Parliament requested that Mr. Sunak advocate for his release.
Earlier this week, the government decided not to get involved in the case.
But after talking to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr. Sunak confirmed that he brought up the case along with other matters related to embassies and citizens.
He didn’t give any specifics, but he stated that the foreign office is still helping Mr. Johal’s family and will continue to help them.
Mr Johal, a 36-year-old advocate for Sikh human rights, went to India in October 2017 to get married.
He was out shopping with his wife when suddenly his family saw him being taken away by policemen wearing regular clothes from the Punjab Police. They forced him into a car that didn’t have any official markings.
He said that he was hurt and mistreated by officers for several days and they shocked his private parts with electricity. Then they made him sign a paper without anything written on it.
The Indian authorities say that these accusations are not true.
Mr Johal has been held in Indian prisons for a long time because he is accused of paying for weapons that were used to kill some Hindu religious and political leaders from the right-wing party in Punjab.
‘Speaking without purpose has no value’
He is currently accused of planning to kill people for political reasons in India, and he might be sentenced to death if found guilty.
He says he didn’t do what they accuse him of, and claims that his arrest and trial are motivated by politics.
The UK government has said that it won’t ask for Mr Johal to be released right away because that might seem like they are interfering with the legal process and it might not be what’s best for him.
On the airplane going to Delhi, Mr. Sunak was asked if he would be discussing the case. He replied that he would be talking about many things with Prime Minister Modi, and reassured people that the case has already been brought up multiple times before.
On Friday, Mr Johal’s brother, Gurpreet, who is a lawyer and a Labour councillor, accused Mr Sunak of letting Mr Johal stay in prison and not helping him.
After finding out that Mr. Sunak was involved, he said: “I’m glad that the prime minister has brought up my brother’s situation with his counterpart, but just discussing it is not sufficient unless he has demanded Jagtar’s release in accordance with the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention’s conclusions.
Clearly, the prime minister had to address Jagtar’s situation because many Members of Parliament asked him to.
I am worried that the UK government is only saying things without actually doing anything. The campaign continues until Jagtar returns home to Scotland.
‘Not having enough people to lead’
The director of the human rights group Reprieve, Maya Foa, said that Theresa May brought up Jagtar’s case. Boris Johnson also did it. However, even though he was taken against his will and subjected to severe pain and suffering, he continues to be held in jail after six years. He now faces the chance of being sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit.
The government frequently claims that ministers have brought up the situation many times, as if that diminishes their responsibility for not working harder to free a British citizen who is being held without reason.
“What did Rishi Sunak tell Narendra Modi about the situation and how did he react. Without getting these answers, the prime minister’s conversation doesn’t have much meaning. ”
Dabinderjit Singh, an important advisor to the Sikh Federation, said that Mr. Sunak had seemed unwilling to support the Scottish case since he became Prime Minister almost a year ago, until he was pushed by pressure from Members of Parliament to do so.
He said: “But he has shown his weakness and lack of leadership by not fighting for the rights of a British citizen and asking for Jagtar to be released right away.
Rishi Sunak and his team from the Foreign Office are saying things that don’t make sense when it comes to Jagtar’s well-being and fairness.
“They seem afraid and confused about how to apply diplomatic pressure on India, so they are relying on the corrupt Indian judicial system. ”
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) is urging the public to report any incidents of its officers engaging in extortion at Immigration Inland Checkpoints.
This call to action is prompted by allegations that certain officers stationed at these checkpoints, particularly at the Northern frontiers of the country, have been involved in extorting money from members of the public.
GIS in a statement issued stated “It has come to the attention of the Management of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) that some Officers stationed at the Immigration Inland Checkpoints are alleged to be extorting monies from members of the public, especially at the Northern frontiers of the country,” GIS said on a statement.
“Any member of the public who is extorted by an Immigration Officer at any of the inland checkpoints is to take note of his or her name tag and the duty post where it occurred and report to the nearest Immigration Service Office or the Immigration Professional Standards and Ethics Section at the Regional or National Headquarters,” GIS added.
The statement explained that the purpose of the inland checkpoints is to serve as an additional layer of passenger profiling. This is done to effectively prevent the entry of extremist groups into the country, ensuring national security and the safety of travelers.
“These inland checkpoints are technically a part of the border lines and consequently have security protocols that members of the traveling public are to follow.”
The Ghana Immigration Service further cautioned Commanders in the various regions and sectors to ensure that officers posted to these checkpoints conduct themselves professionally.
“We were getting ready to go to sleep,” he said, when the glass started shaking.
Mr Smith said that he and his girlfriend, along with some other people, were standing near the hotel entrance when a second earthquake happened.
“He said we really looked hard for people who could speak English, but we could only find a few who spoke English poorly. ”
We waited to see if the building would stay strong, and then hurried to get our medicine and bedding because we thought we might have to sleep in the parking lot for the night.
The center of the earthquake was in a faraway mountain area southwest of Marrakesh. People said that entire villages in that area were completely destroyed.
The police arrested two men in March. One is in his 20s and the other is in his 30s.
People who know about the situation have told the BBC that one of them worked as a researcher for a parliament member and dealt with matters related to international affairs.
According to the Sunday Times, it is believed that the researcher had connections with multiple Conservative Members of Parliament.
On Sunday morning, the UK government stated that Rishi Sunak had raised concerns about China’s interference with a high-ranking Chinese official.
A spokesperson said the prime minister met with the Premier of China during a big meeting in India, and “expressed his worries about China’s involvement in the UK’s government system. ”
The Sunday Times said that the researcher had connections to the security minister Tom Tugendhat and the chairwoman of the foreign affairs committee Alicia Kearns, among other people.
Many government officials refused to talk about security matters.
The police in London said that they arrested one man in his 30s at a place in Oxfordshire, and another man in his 20s at a place in Edinburgh.
“Authorities searched both the houses and another address in east London. ”
Both men were brought to a police station in south London and later let go on police bail until a date in early October.
The special police unit in charge of handling terrorism cases is looking into crimes related to spying.
The researcher was able to talk to Mr Tugendhat before he became security minister in September last year.
It is said that Mr. Tugendhat did not have much contact with the man, and he did not do any business with him when he was a minister.
The Sunday Times said that there is a man who hasn’t been given a name. It was also mentioned that he lived in China for a while.
Conservative politician Alicia Kearns acknowledged the paper’s report but chose not to say anything about it. She explained that it is important to protect the work of the authorities and not put it at risk, even though she understands people are curious about it.
When asked about the report on a BBC show, Justice Secretary Alex Chalk said he couldn’t talk about individual cases.
He supported the current approach with China, saying that the UK was correct to interact with the country. However, Sunak emphasized the importance of being careful when moving forward.
He said on Sky News, “I am confident that the parliamentary authorities will learn any necessary lessons. ” Chinese spying worries.
The arrests will start the discussion again about London’s connection with Beijing. There is increasing worry about Chinese spying and meddling in Parliament, and people are asking if more should have been done to prevent these dangers.
Last year, there was a warning about Christine Lee’s unusual involvement in Parliament.
MI5 accused her of engaging in political interference by giving money to support the work of Members of Parliament. This was all said for China.
Other countries like Australia and Canada have also accused China of spying or interfering with their politics. However, the Chinese government has denied these claims.
In the past few years, there has been more and more conflict and worry about spying and other safety risks. But in the last few months, both the United States and the United Kingdom have been trying to make things better and improve their relationship with China.
The UK’s Foreign Secretary James Cleverly went to Beijing less than two weeks ago and said to the BBC that it wouldn’t be believable to separate or disconnect.
In response to the arrests, Iain Duncan Smith, a Conservative MP, said it is important for us to understand the increasing danger that the Chinese Communist Party, led by President Xi, now presents.
He also criticized the UK’s way of dealing with China, asking: “What did Cleverly’s visit to Beijing, where he showed excessive respect and obedience, cost us. ”
Conservative Member of Parliament Tim Loughton said: “This shows even more proof of how much influence the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has in British institutions.
Once again, the safety of Parliament may have been put in danger, which reminds us that we have to see the CCP as a dangerous foreign enemy.
The Intelligence and Security Committee of Parliament released a report in July, saying that the government was not quick enough to recognize the security threats from Beijing.
The report said that China seems to really want to interfere with the UK government. They are targeting officials and organizations at different levels to try and influence the UK’s political thinking and decision-making about China.
This text says that there were difficulties in prosecuting cases related to spying because, at the time, it was not illegal to be a spy for another country.
MI5 and other intelligence agencies have always said that the old Official Secrets Act was not good enough for dealing with activities by unfriendly countries. The United States and Australia have been able to use more abilities.
New rules for investigating spying and other security dangers were put in place this summer in the UK. However, the arrest of the two men happened before these new rules were implemented.
The National Service Scheme (NSS) recently organized a Remembrance Day service. This service was intended to honor those service personnel who had sadly lost their lives while performing their duties. During this event, there was a call to action directed at all citizens. They were urged to safeguard and improve the NSS for the benefit of everyone.
This special service took place at the National Service Secretariat’s headquarters in Accra, and it occurred last Thursday. It was a part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the NSS.
A Deputy Minister of Education by the name of Rev. John Ntim Fordjour made this call during the event. He emphasized that the NSS had played a significant role over the years. Specifically, it had been instrumental in identifying and nurturing talents and potential from diverse backgrounds, all in the interest of national development.
Rev. John Ntim Fordjour also pointed out that the NSS is a nonpartisan institution. It has had a substantial impact, both directly and indirectly, on the lives of many Ghanaians. This impact has been realized through the opportunities it provides for individuals to serve their country.
Given these important contributions, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour stressed the need for all citizens to recognize the significance of the NSS and to actively protect and support it. This, he argued, would enable the scheme to continue nurturing and harnessing the talents of more individuals for the betterment of the nation.
“Today we recognise the toils and sacrifices of young men and women who were brimming with a sense of patriotism, ready to try it on the grounds in underserved areas where people would not even go. Hard to reach areas without electricity and potable drinking water. These are some of the people we grew up looking up to,” he said.
Osei Assibey Antwi, the Executive Director of NSS, added that the day served as a moment to not just commemorate the dedication and sacrifices made by service personnel but also to rekindle their commitment to the principles they upheld.
“We must remind ourselves that the work they began is far from finished and their legacy depends on us to carry it forward with renewed vigour and dedication”, he said.
He encouraged all national service personnel to reaffirm their commitment to service, unity, and progress, ensuring that their efforts were meaningful. He emphasized the importance of remembering those who laid the foundation for the scheme, acknowledging their significant contributions, and stating that they deserved to be honored.
Edward Boateng, the Director-General of State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), highlighted the critical role played by the national service secretariat. He noted that it had been instrumental in bridging the gap between academia and young graduates by instilling in them a strong sense of national duty and work ethic. Boateng also pointed out that the secretariat had served not only as a launching platform for young graduates but also as a valuable resource for numerous private and public organizations across the country.
‘Together we will continue to provide opportunities for our youth to grow, learn and serve their nation with pride”, he said.
The President of the Ghana Journalist’s Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, commended the management of the scheme for their efforts over the years.
He said the scheme had instilled in many students a sense of discipline and maturity, which had contributed to the growth and the progress of the nation.
“The scheme has accomplished a great deal over the years, and I would like to take this opportunity to commend the executive directors past and present for their unwavering contributions to the scheme,” he said.
Assuring the scheme of the media’s support and commitment, he promised that the scheme would achieve its goals.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, are making headway in their pursuit of the killers of rapper Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane.
They have recently recovered the firearm used in the crime.
AKA and Tibz were tragically shot outside Wish restaurant in Durban on February 10 this year.
During an inter-ministerial briefing on Wednesday, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi also confirmed the discovery of the vehicles linked to the crime.
“We have identified at least a couple of vehicles that were used. Some of the vehicles were used as getaway, some of the vehicles that might have been used by people after the fact that we suspect that are the suspects in this incident.
“We have identified at least one firearm that has been used and positively identified to have shot and killed Mr Forbes on that evening.
“We are and such are in our possession as well and we as SAPS, as I said, identified few individuals that we are going to maybe after discussing with the NPA, we might then start bringing them in,” said Mkhwanazi.
Mkhwanazi also said a number of people had been interviewed in connection with the murders.
“Those who might have been present during the incident, some not, and those of interest to us. We have identified a couple of vehicles that were used, some were used as getaways and some portals. Some might have been used by people after and we suspect to be suspects.”
Theodore Albright, a lawyer and Council Member at the Centre for Social Justice, underscores the need to treat Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen’s intimidation allegations during the NPP‘s Super Delegates Conference with utmost seriousness.
He insisted that if the Party deems Mr. Kyerematen a valuable candidate conducting an intra-party campaign, his concerns should not be disregarded because he possesses significant stature and high standards.
“His concerns must not be dismissed because he is “a person of substance and a person of high standard.”
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile program, Mr. Albright clarified that the NPP should not easily brush aside Mr. Kyerematen’s allegations by labeling him as “disgruntled” with the election process.
“Well, the figures might work against him, but what he has to say should be taken seriously. When you combine the figures for Alan and the combined figures for Ken, that’s rounded up about 25% or one-quarter of the total votes. And these two people complained about the process.
The lawyer’s remarks were a reaction to Mr. Kyerematen’s announcement of his withdrawal from the party’s flagbearer race. In his statement, the former Trade and Industry Minister outlined numerous incidents that he believed had provided an advantage to a specific aspirant during the party’s Super Delegates Conference. He also highlighted the significant level of intimidation faced by delegates across all 16 regions, a situation he characterized as unprecedented in the party’s history.
Mr. Albright expressed his worries that the NPP might not be strongly contemplating Mr. Kyerematen’s claims of intimidation in light of this.
He emphasised that dealing with such situations shouldn’t be taken lightly and needs to be given the serious thought it deserves.
“The signal that is then given is that, as is either modus operandi or it is an acceptable way of addressing matters of democracy.
“And I’m rather pained, actually, when I listened to my fellow panellist and deputy general secretary for the party speaking rather light terms on this matter,” Mr Albright stated.
The Road to Relief NGO reported that a Canadian man named Anthony Ihnat died in a vehicle attack by Russians while driving towards Bakhmut.
The government of Spain stated that a woman from Spain was also killed. The NGO said that their director, Emma Igual, who is 32 years old, could not be found.
The group reported that the car was hit directly near Chasiv Yar on Saturday, flipped upside down, and caught on fire.
Road to Relief, a registered organization in Ukraine, stated that two medical volunteers from Germany and Sweden, Ruben Mawick and Johan Mathias Thyr, were hurt by fragments but are in a stable condition in the hospital.
The people who help others have gone from Slovyansk to the Bakhmut area to see what civilians in the town of Ivanivske need because they are affected by fighting.
The group did not say if Ms Igual was dead, they only said they didn’t know where she was.
But Spain’s foreign minister, Jose Manuel Albares, said on Sunday that a Spanish woman died in the attack.
“He said a flying object hit a vehicle that a person from Spain was inside of. ” “She was employed at an NGO where she assisted with the humanitarian situation. ”
Road to Relief stated that the volunteers were serving as a “needs assessment” team, who were often the first to go to villages on the front lines.
The work they did led to many people being evacuated and important supplies being delivered during the 18 months they have been working.
Mr Ihnat was described online by fellow NGO Action Beyond Words as a very gentle and kind person who has a positive presence in any room.
“We honor a brave person from Ukraine,” it said.
The situation in Eastern Ukraine has become more and more dangerous for people who help others, whether they are from Ukraine or from other countries.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs released a report last week saying that there were 100 incidents that caused problems for aid workers this year.
The number of attacks on distribution points has been increasing consistently throughout the year. As a result, aid had to be temporarily stopped multiple times.
In 2023, six people who were helping others were killed and sixteen were hurt while working in Ukraine. This is more than the four killed in 2022.
In January, two British people named Chris Parry and Andrew Bagshaw were killed while trying to help people leave a place called Soledar, in the north of Bakhmut. This happened because a group of mercenaries from Russia called Wagner were getting closer.
Vice President Dr Mahamud Bawumia asserts his confidence in winning the 2024 presidential elections instead of transferring power to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He alleges that the NDC is apprehensive about his candidacy and highlights the support of Zongo community delegates in the event he leads the NPP in the 2024 election.
During his campaign in the Oti Region ahead of the party’s November 4 primaries, Dr. Bawumia states, “When examining the Northern and Zongo communities, it becomes evident that if I lead the NPP, they will rally behind us. Consequently, the NDC’s chances of winning the elections are diminished.”
He also commits to securing a majority of votes in regions traditionally considered NDC strongholds, aiming to pave the way for the NPP’s victory in the 2024 general elections.
The Vice President said, “That is why they fear Dr Bawumia because they all know that I will give them a showdown.”
Dr. Bawumia emerged as the top candidate in the NPP’s Super Delegate Conference on August 26, securing a spot among the final five flagbearer candidates for the party’s November primaries.
In contrast, Mr. Alan Kyeremateng, a former flagbearer aspirant, officially withdrew from the flagbearership race in a press statement issued on September 5. His decision was based on concerns about the Special Electoral College held on August 26, 2023, which he believed favored one specific aspirant strategically and tactically, among other reasons.
Notably, Mr. Kyeremateng became the second aspirant to withdraw from the flagbearership race, following Boakye Agyarko, who opted out of the run-off election scheduled for Saturday, September 2, 2023, where he was set to compete with fellow flagbearer hopeful Francis Addai-Nimoh.
As of now, the candidates vying for the NPP’s flagbearership position include Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Member of Parliament for Assin Central Kennedy Agyapong, former Minister of Agriculture Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and former Mampong MP Francis Addai-Nimo.
Mason Sisk was a 14-year-old boy in September 2019 when his family was killed in their home in Elkmont, Alabama.
Four years later, he was convicted of causing the death of five people, and it was considered the most serious type of murder. Now 18 years old, Sisk will spend their life in prison and will not have a chance to be released.
The judge, Chadwick Wise, gave the toughest punishment for the killings, which he described as horrifying, disturbing, and filled with pure evil. Since Sisk was under 18 years old at the time of the murders, he couldn’t be given the death penalty.
The people who were hurt were his dad, John Wayne Sisk, who is 38 years old, his mom, Mary Sisk, who is 35 years old, and his three brothers and sisters: Kane, who is six years old, Aurora, who is four years old, and Colson, who is only six months old.
All five people in the family were shot in the head and died.
Sisk first told the police that he was playing video games in the basement of his family’s house when he heard the sound of gunshots. He said he didn’t see the killers since they had already left by the time he went upstairs.
But only a few hours later, Sisk admitted to the murders during questioning by the sheriff’s deputies. He said in a video shown to the jury that he was tired of all the fighting and yeah, he killed them.
Sisk’s lawyers tried to say that the confession was forced, and that the interrogators used a sneaky method to trick the teenager.
They also pointed out that the person asking the questions, former Sheriff Mike Blakely, was found guilty of stealing and leveraging his position for personal benefit in 2021.
A group of people called a jury decided that Sisk is responsible for all five murders in April. He was given a punishment of being in prison for the rest of his life on Thursday.
I can count on one hand the five most dangerous people that I have ever encountered in my career, and Mason Sisk is the most dangerous among them,” said District Attorney Brian CT Jones to reporters outside the courthouse.
Judge Wise’s decision will make sure that this dangerous person will not be a danger to our children.
Popular Ghanaian influencer Joshua Buernortey Boye-Doe known popularly as KalyJay was showcasing his dance moves at a party.
The popular influencer was excitedly dancing as the people at the party cheered him on.
KalyJay is a Ghanaian social media influencer and activist recognized for using his platform to raise awareness about various issues within the Ghanaian community.
Notably, he played a significant role in the #FixTheCountry social media campaign, which eventually evolved into a public protest against the Ghanaian government in early 2021.
The ex-soldier and person believed to be a terrorist was caught by police before 11:00 am this morning in Chiswick, London. He is now being held by the police.
The police have thanked everyone who helped in the search for Khalife and will give more information about his arrest later.
Police were looking for something or someone in that area earlier on Saturday because someone had seen it there before and said it was true. Khalife, who is 21 years old, is believed to have run away from HMP Wandsworth on Wednesday morning. He did this by attaching himself to the underside of a delivery truck after leaving the prison kitchen while dressed as a cook.
The Minister responsible for policing, Chris Philp, praised the Metropolitan Police for quickly and successfully arresting Khalife. He expressed his admiration on social media, saying, “The Met Police did a fantastic job. ” Great job for quickly and efficiently capturing this criminal.
A great example of effective policing. Well done to all the officers who were part of this mission.
Prime minister Rishi Sunak expressed happiness about Khalife’s arrest and commended the police and the public for their efforts in finding him.
The Prime Minister spoke to the broadcasters at the G20 summit in New Delhi and said he was happy with the news. He thanked the police officers for their excellent work and also the public for providing a lot of helpful information to the police.
It’s great that we caught the person involved. As we all know, the Justice Secretary is investigating how he escaped and will keep working on it.
This is clearly really good news. And once again, I want to express my gratitude to the police as well as to the public for their assistance. The police had promised to give £20,000 to anyone who could give them helpful information about the criminal. They received more than 100 phone calls because of this offer.
Police officers were looking for someone in Chiswick on Saturday. They stopped cars, checked the trunks, and asked people for their identification when they saw them.
There were police officers with weapons and dogs in the area, and a police boat was visible on the River Thames near the roads.
Before he escaped, Khalife was waiting for a trial because he was accused of placing a fake bomb at an RAF base and collecting information that could help terrorists or people who are against the UK.
The Labour party wants the Government to explain why they arrested Daniel Khalife.
Yvette Cooper, who is in charge of home security, wrote on social media: ‘I want to express my gratitude to all the police and intelligence teams who worked together to find and arrest Daniel Khalife. It is very good news that he has been captured now. ‘
Now, we need to find out how a prisoner accused of committing terror and national security crimes managed to escape.
The person driving, who is a man in his twenties, was taken into custody for possibly causing someone’s death by driving recklessly and driving while under the influence of drugs.
The roads are still closed while the police are investigating.
A person from Russia says that it is not true that Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is a warlord called Wagner, died in a plane crash last month. Instead, the person says that he is living a fancy life on an island in the Caribbean.
Dr Valery Solovey thinks that Prigozhin was told about the upcoming airplane crash on August 23rd and managed to avoid dying.
Russia says that all 10 individuals on the plane were killed and they have confirmed this by conducting genetic tests.
However, Ukrainian military intelligence recently mentioned that there is a chance that Prigozhin is still alive. They also mentioned that they could not verify if he has actually passed away.
Dr Solovey, who some people think is a conspiracy theorist, thinks he is hiding on an island called Margarita, near Venezuela.
He has also said before that Vladimir Putin is very sick and all of the times we see him recently are actually impersonators.
Both Putin and Prigozhin are thought to use look-alikes and costumes.
Dr Solovey claimed that Prigozhin made a deal with Nikolai Patrushev to escape from his trick, but he did not provide any proof for his claims. He told me “I promised to say where Yevgeny Prigozhin is. ”
‘He is currently in Venezuela. ‘ From what I know, he is on an island called Margarita.
Yevgeny Prigozhin was given a warning that someone might try to kill him by destroying his airplane.
‘They figured out the clever method that we saw. ‘
‘After Wagner’s main leaders passed away in the airplane accident, Yevgeny Prigozhin was still alive and in good health. ‘
Dr Solovey believes that Prigozhin may have around 5,000 hired soldiers who follow his orders. If Putin were to pass away, Prigozhin could potentially employ these troops to compete for authority in Russia.
Dr Solovey, who used to be a professor at MGIMO, a well-known school for spies and diplomats in Moscow, stated that Prigozhin is currently having a great time at a luxurious vacation destination.
Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, GUR, said it can confirm that military commander Dmitry Utkin and other members of a mercenary army died in a plane crash. However, they did not mention anything about Prigozhin.
A person speaking for the group said: “We need to make decisions based on true information, so we have to be patient and wait. ”
I will just talk about how we know for sure that Utkin and some people who work with Prigozhin have died.
Vladimir Putin sent a lot of drones that exploded like kamikaze pilots in Ukraine‘s capital city for about two hours. This was one of the biggest attacks in the last few months.
There were big explosions in Kyiv and the area around it last night right after the loud sirens told people to find a safe place to stay.
Ukraine’s air force announced that they successfully destroyed 26 out of 33 drones from Iran called Shahed, which were sent by Russia.
The video showed the sky at night brightened by explosions from Kyiv’s defenses shooting at the targets.
Ukraine stops a Russian drone attack on Kyiv. Smoke was coming out from between the buildings.
Liudmyla, who lives here, heard the sound of drones flying before a loud blast shattered the windows in her building and broke the jars on her windowsill.
“It was really scary, words can’t even describe it,” she said.
The mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, said that one person got hurt in the old Podil area and there was a fire close to a park in the city. The military administration of the city said that pieces of drones that had crashed fell in the Darnytskyi, Solomianskyi, Shevchenkivskyi, Sviatoshynskyi, and Podil districts.
Serhiy Popko, the leader of the city’s military administration, said on Telegram that drones arrived in the capital in groups and from various directions.
The governor of the region, Ruslan Kravchenko, said on Facebook that during the overnight strikes, a certain infrastructure facility and eight houses were damaged.
Outside of Kyiv, Russia’s defense ministry announced that they have destroyed three speedboats, which were supplied by the US to Ukraine. The boats were heading towards Crimea. Additionally, they have also destroyed eight drones.
The ministry did not mention if there was any harm or injuries from either the events.
The United Nations organization responsible for monitoring nuclear activity has raised concerns that the potential conflictoccurring near the biggest nuclear power plant in Europe could put nuclear safety at risk.
There has been an increase in fighting near the power plant, as Ukraine’s forces fight back.
The director of the IAEA, Rafael Mariano Grossi, said that the staff at the plant had been reduced to the lowest number of people because they were worried about more fighting happening in the area.
He said: ‘I am very worried about the possible dangers that the plant could face during this time of increased military tension in the area.
No matter what happens in a place with fighting, everyone would suffer if there is a nuclear accident. I ask everyone to take all the necessary steps to prevent it from happening.
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is one of the largest nuclear plants globally. There are worries that the ongoing fighting could lead to a radiation leak from the facility.
The plant’s six reactors have been turned off for many months, but the plant still requires energy and skilled workers to ensure that the cooling systems and other safety measures keep working properly.
At the beginning of the year, people got worried when bombs were discovered at the factory. The factory has been owned by Russia since the war began.
A pregnant woman in her late 40s, identified as Adelaide Kusi, was found dead in Bebu, Atwima Kwanwoma District, Ashanti Region. She was married with four children and her lifeless body was discovered on September 7, 2023.
Authorities informed the police, and her body was taken to Komfo Anokye Mortuary for a post-mortem examination. Adelaide Kusi, who was pregnant, worked as a second-hand clothing vendor.
Tragically, she was reportedly ambushed by suspected thieves on her way home from work. They allegedly stole her belongings and, regrettably, ended her life.
Her husband stated that he had spoken to his wife earlier, and she mentioned she was shopping and would return home soon. As time passed without her arrival, he attempted to call her, but her phone was switched off. Subsequently, another call went through, but it wasn’t answered. Concerned, he began searching, and sadly, she was discovered deceased not far from their home.
The police are actively investigating the incident.
Sasha Obama, the second child of the 44th U.S. President, faces criticism for public smoking.
In a Twitter-shared video by Say Cheese, she’s seen smoking in casual attire with friends.
Social media users reacted to the pictures. Some felt a prominent leader’s daughter shouldn’t behave this way. Others argued she’s an adult now, and her father isn’t president anymore, so judgment should cease.
Beyond smoking, some users discussed her 22-year-old body figure.
“Young people smoke all the time. Why are you guys so focused on putting the unnecessary spotlight on this girl? This is how you people start with your unnecessary pressure. Let her live her life like the young girl that she is. It’s none of your business. Let her breathe!”, a comment from a netizen.
“How dare she act like a human?! She should be ashamed! She should present herself as the high-class individual she is!”, another netizen said.
Check out more reactions from netizens
Sasha Obama is going viral for smoking a cigarette while hanging with friends. pic.twitter.com/zUrvfr0KIY
Pictures and videos show lots of scared people on the sidewalks, worried that more shaking would happen after the big earthquake on Friday.
Some people used duvets as beds, while others only had one blanket to wrap themselves in.
Some people put their things in a suitcase and kept it with them all night.
Many people decided to sleep outside. Others had to because their houses were destroyed.
The earthquake, which measured 6. 8 on the scale used to measure earthquakes, has caused entire villages to collapse. The earthquake started near the town of Ighil in Al Haouz Province, about 43 miles south of Marrakech.
Over 2,012 people have passed away and 2,059 have been hurt, and unfortunately, these numbers are likely to increase more. More families are stuck under the collapsed buildings, and rescue teams are having a hard time reaching them. This is particularly true in the worst affected countryside, where the roads are entirely blocked by the debris.
Yesterday, Caroline Holt, who is in charge of operations for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), said that there is only a limited amount of time for rescues to happen.
She said the next 24 to 48 hours are very important for saving lives. She promised that they will focus on searching for people while also taking care of those who have been found and are safe.
The people who live in the area are working together to help those trapped under collapsed buildings. Some are searching through debris using only their hands.
The earthquake was the largest one to happen in Morocco in 120 years. It caused buildings and walls in old cities, which were made of stone and other materials not built to handle earthquakes, to collapse. Not a lot of earthquakes happen in North Africa. Lahcen Mhanni, who is in charge of monitoring earthquakes at the National Institute of Geophysics, said on 2M TV that the earthquake was the most powerful ever recorded in the mountain area.
In 1960, a big earthquake with a strength of 5. 8 happened near the city of Agadir in Morocco. Many people died because of it.
Professor Bill McGuire, a retired professor who specializes in studying the dangers of natural disasters like earthquakes, explained that even though people don’t usually associate Morocco with earthquakes, they do occur there.
A very strong earthquake caused many buildings to collapse in Marrakech, Morocco. This one is really big for the area – the largest in over 120 years – and, as shown by the number of deaths from climbing, very dangerous.
The issue is that in places where there are not many powerful earthquakes, buildings are not built strong enough to handle strong shaking of the ground. Because of this, many buildings collapse and a lot of people get hurt or killed.
I think that the number of people who died will go up to thousands once we have more information. After a major earthquake, there will probably be more smaller earthquakes called aftershocks. These aftershocks may cause more people to get hurt or even die, and they will also make it harder for rescuers to find and save people.
In the bustling landscape of Ghana’s educational realm, it’s easy to be dazzled by the gleaming facades of modern schools, enticed by glossy brochures promising world-class Cambridge or IB curriculum, and captivated by meticulously manicured lawns.
As an expert in education, I implore parents and educators alike to pierce through this veneer of grandeur and focus on what really matters — the transformative value of education in a child’s life through quality teaching and learning.
The heart of a child’s education lies not in the opulence of a school’s facilities or the prestige of its curriculum, but in the quality of teaching, the nurturing of foundational skills, and the active involvement of parents in their child’s learning journey.
Education, derived from the Latin word “educere,” is a profound process of unearthing or bringing out the intelligence of a person, not merely a matter of putting in facts and figures. It is about igniting curiosity, nurturing critical thinking, and instilling values that will shape a child’s future.
In today’s fast-evolving world, the skills and knowledge needed for success are shifting. It’s no longer enough to accumulate information; we must cultivate adaptable, inquisitive minds ready to face the challenges of the future.
Beyond Facilities – The True Essence of Education:
In the race for the best facilities, it’s crucial to remember that a school is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a sanctuary of knowledge, a place where young minds are shaped and nurtured.
While a well-maintained campus can create a conducive learning environment, it’s imperative to recognize that the essence of education transcends physical structures.
True education is the cultivation of curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. It’s about instilling values,building character, and preparing children not just for exams, but for life’s multifaceted challenges.
Foreign Curriculum vs National Curriculum: the Advantages and Drawbacks
The allure of prestigious curricula, like Cambridge and IB, has seemingly overshadowed the GES curriculum in recent years.
Promising world-class education and internationally recognized qualifications, these programs are often perceived as passports to esteemed institutions. Yet, many schools lack accreditation and expertise to offer them.
Ideally, teachers should be educated in these curricula, but most are trained in the GES system.
Sadly, professional development opportunities are scarce, hindering effective content delivery.
School owners, driven by numbers and profitability, favor the allure of Cambridge or IB status over GES.
Unbeknownst to many, the GES’ National curriculum stands among the world’s best, comparable to education giants like Finland. While curriculum content is excellent, it’s often the teaching and teacher quality that hinders effectiveness. Remember, a curriculum is a framework; it’s the skilled educators who bring it to life.
True learning isn’t confined to textbooks and prescribed syllabi. It flourishes when teachers inspire curiosity, encourage exploration, and foster a genuine passion for knowledge. A child’s education should be an odyssey of discovery, where they learn to think critically, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively.
These are skills that serve them not just in the exam hall, but in every facet of their lives.
More details on the role of a teacher in curriculum development and delivery are defined in the proceeding texts.
Learning for Life, Not Just for Tests:
In many educational systems, the emphasis on standardized testing has become the yardstick for success. Yet, we must remember that true education extends beyond exam halls. While assessments have their place, they are but a snapshot of a student’s capabilities.
The true measure of a child’s education is their ability to apply knowledge, think critically, and adapt to a rapidly changing world.
A holistic education equips children with the tools to navigate life’s complexities. It fosters creativity, resilience, and an insatiable thirst for learning. It prepares them for a future where adaptability and problem-solving skills are paramount. When we prioritize learning for life over learning for tests, we equip our children to thrive in a dynamic world.
The Role of Teacher and teaching Quality:
The linchpin of any successful educational system is its teachers. A skilled, dedicated educator has the power to shape the minds of generations to come. It is they who ignite the spark of curiosity, who guide students through the intricacies of knowledge, and who serve as mentors and role models.
Investing in teacher quality is an investment in the future. It means providing professional development opportunities, offering competitive salaries, and recognizing the invaluable contribution teachers make to society. When we elevate the status of educators, we elevate the quality of education itself.
By shifting the focus from curriculum prestige to the quality of teaching, we empower educators to be the true architects of a child’s educational journey.
A dedicated and skilled teacher can take any curriculum and turn it into a transformative experience that shapes a child’s future.
Nutritional Foundations for Educational Success:
A well-fed body is a well-prepared mind. Proper nutrition is crucial for a child’s learning and growth. Hungry minds struggle to thrive, making it our collective responsibility to ensure every child has access to nutritious meals.
Leading nations in education offer free, highly nutritious meals, at least for lunch, to their students. This is why many, myself included, believe that student performance remains high compared to peers in countries where meals, if provided, lack the necessary nutritional value for physical and cognitive development.
In Ghana, for example, parents often lament the poor quality of meals, especially in public schools. How can children learn effectively when they are hungry or malnourished? Schools play a pivotal role.
They must provide balanced meals and healthy snacks, creating an environment where children can focus on learning, not their empty stomachs.
Prioritizing nutrition lays the groundwork for a brighter, more nourished future.
Emotional Support and Peer Interaction:
Education is not solely an intellectual pursuit; it is also a social and emotional one. A supportive, inclusive environment is essential for a child’s holistic development. Peers, teachers, and the broader school community all play a part in creating this nurturing ecosystem.
By fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and understanding, we enable children to thrive not only academically, but also emotionally. We equip them with the tools to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and become compassionate global citizens.
I strongly suggest school leaders and policymakers to consider reintroducing ethics education, values and principles training as well as patriotism to foster teach children how to effectively and sustainably care for, value and protect themselves, others and the environment they live in.
The Crucial Role of Parental Involvement:
The partnership between parents and educators is the cornerstone of a child’s educational journey. When parents are actively engaged in their child’s learning, the impact is profound. It means attending parent-teacher conferences, asking about their day, and taking an interest in their studies.
Research consistently shows that parental involvement is a key predictor of a child’s
academic success and future career achievements. It is a powerful force that reinforces the importance of education in a child’s life.
Academic Success vs. Career Success:
Ultimately, the true measure of an education lies not in exam scores, but in the lives students lead after they leave the classroom. Academic success is but a stepping stone to a fulfilling, prosperous future.
A well-rounded education equips students with the skills, values, and knowledge they need to excel in their chosen paths. It prepares them to be lifelong learners, adaptable problem-solvers, and contributors to society.
In the pursuit of education, let us not be swayed by superficial trappings. Let us recognize that the heart of learning lies in dedicated teachers, nurturing environments, engaged parents, and a curriculum that fosters a love for knowledge.
It is in these foundational elements that we find the true essence of education, shaping not only students’ academic journeys, but their lives beyond the classroom.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Despite socioeconomic barriers and other challenges in achieving quality and inclusive education for all (UN SDG4), the way forward is clear. It commences with us—parents, educators, and communities. It’s time to shift our focus and channel our efforts towards what truly counts.
Let’s expect more from our educational institutions, not in lavish infrastructure, but in the caliber of teaching, in instilling a passion for learning, and in cultivating environments that foster the all-encompassing growth of our children.
This encompasses acquiring knowledge, gaining the wisdom to apply it, and receiving character education to lead fulfilling lives and make a positive impact on the world.
1. UNESCO. (2015). Education for All Global Monitoring Report. Link
2. PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment). (2018). OECD Publishing, Paris. Link
3. Darling-Hammond, L. (2017). Teacher Education around the World: What Can We Learn from
International Practice? European Journal of Teacher Education, 40(3), 291-309.
4. Fullan, M. (2013). Stratosphere: Integrating Technology, Pedagogy, and Change Knowledge.
Pearson.
5. Robinson, K. (2006). Ken Robinson: Do Schools Kill Creativity? TED Talk. Link
6. World Bank. (2018). World Development Report 2018: Learning to Realize Education’s
Promise. Link
7. Sahlberg, P. (2011). Finnish Lessons: What Can the World Learn from Educational Change in
Finland? Teachers College Press.
8. Gopinathan, S., & Lee, M. (2007). Education in South-East Asia. World Scientific Publishing.
Romania’s foreign ministry called in Russia‘s representative after pieces of drones were discovered inside Romania’s borders, which is a member of NATO. This is the second time such incidents have occurred within a week.
For a long time, Vladimir Putin has been using Iranian Shahed drones to attack Ukraine’s biggest ports that are used to export grain.
Klaus Iohannis, the president of Romania, keeps saying that the attacks happening nearby are a big threat to the Black Sea’s safety.
However, Russia has still been attacking buildings and ports that are used by regular people and located near the Danube River in the Odesa region. These places are only a short distance away from a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
During the explosions in Ukraine’s river ports, Romanian authorities found another set of broken drone pieces that had crashed on its shores within a week.
The attacks have made the military alliance, whose members promise to protect each other, more vulnerable to security threats.
The head of the Russian Embassy in Bucharest was called in for an urgent meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
‘The State Secretary for Strategic Affairs, Iulian Fota, expressed Romania’s concern about a violation of our country’s airspace. This happened after finding some drone pieces near the border with Ukraine. These drone pieces were similar to the ones used by Russian forces in the attack on Ukraine. ’
President Akufo-Addo has announced an increase in the farm gate price of cocoa beans, raising it from GH¢800 to GH¢1308 per bag for the upcoming cocoa season.
The announcement was made during the opening of the 2023/2024 cocoa season in Tepa, located in the Ashanti region.
President Akufo-Addo noted that this adjustment marks the highest increase in West Africa within the past 15 years and responds to the persistent pleas from cocoa farmers who have voiced concerns about smuggling activities and the illegal occupation of their lands by miners.
The President expressed optimism about the impact of these new policies on the cocoa sector, foreseeing improvements in the industry.
According to the Ghana COCOBOD, a staggering one hundred and fifty thousand metric tonnes of cocoa have been smuggled out of Ghana this year alone. They are implementing stringent measures to curb this phenomenon.
Bryan Acheampong, Minister of Agriculture, has also affirmed that he is committed to combating cocoa smuggling.
“Mr. President, this big announcement is part of the COCOBOD turn around you order. I assure the nation that now COCOBOD has recovered and we will deliver the mandate to cocoa farmers and surely make Ghana proud.
“Clearly, we are at the drafting of the turnaround strategy as directed by the President and the effect that we are seeing today gives great promise to cocoa farmers and the cocoa industry,” Mr. Acheampong stated.
Offices and stores within the Greater Accra Region’s Central Business District will temporarily cease operations for a three-day period to accommodate the concluding funeral ceremonies of HRM Naa Dedei Omaedru III, the late Ga Manye and Paramount Queen of Ga State.
Chief of Staff at the office of the Ga Mantse Lady Justice Naa-Yarlay Adjei Amoah announced that “From October 27th to October 29th, we expect shops and offices in the Central Business District to remain closed.”
Justice Amoah, who doubles as the Secretary to Central Funeral Planning Committee of the late Ga Manye, added that “We also expect them to decorate their business premises with black and red drippings”.
The various markets have been instructed to adorn their surroundings with black and red decorations as a sign of collective mourning. “This period of grief isn’t limited to the palace alone, so we earnestly appeal to everyone to cooperate with us,” stated Lady Justice Amoah.
She conveyed this message when a delegation from the Jospong Group of Companies, led by Mrs. Adokarley Okpoti-Paulo, the Group Financial Controller for Environmental & Sanitation Group/Finance Director of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, signed the condolence book at the Ga Traditional Council on Friday, September 8, 2023.
During the visit, the Group presented a package that included a box of schnapps, a box of Castle Bridge gin, bottles of Red Label Whiskey, boxes of soft drinks and mineral water, along with refuse bins and an undisclosed cash donation to support the preparations for the final funeral rites of the late Ga Manye.
Mrs. Okpoti-Paulo explained that this gesture aimed to offer consolation and solidarity with the elders in their time of significant loss. She also announced that Zoomlion Ghana Ltd., a subsidiary of the group, would oversee all sanitation-related matters related to the funeral.
Nii Ahene Nunoo III, upon receiving the items, expressed gratitude to the Group and offered a prayer for the long life of the Group’s Executive Chairman.
The ultimate funeral ceremonies for the late Ga Manye, who passed away in December of the previous year, are scheduled to take place from October 15th to 31st, 2023.
The condolence book was officially opened and signed by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo, on June 19, 2023.
Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte, a prominent NDC member, has rejected media claims that he absolved the Electoral Commission (EC) of responsibility for his party’s 2020 presidential election defeat.
Kpessa-Whyte’s social media post on September 9, 2023, had suggested he made such a statement publicly.
However, in a subsequent social media post, Kpessa-Whyte maintained that the EC cannot be cleared of blame for the NDC’s loss. He emphasized that the current Chairperson of the commission, Jean Adukwei Mensa, has turned the election management body into a significant threat to Ghana’s democracy.
“Folks, ignore the misleading and mischievous headlines of @asaaseradio995 and other online news portals trying to exonerate the EC from misconduct in the 2020 elections based on a message I shared recently. The EC under Jean Mensa remains the biggest threat to our democracy,” he wrote in a Twitter post.
In a previous post where he congratulated the newly appointed NDC officers, Kpessa Whyte, who had served as one of the NDC’s representatives in the Electoral Commission of Ghana’s strong room during the national election result collation, pointed out that certain party members and supporters had misconstrued the actual factors responsible for the party’s electoral defeat.
“I opt to address this publicly because many have deluded themselves on account of the subject matter in a manner that is not helpful for our party. Indeed, if our party, the NDC is truly desirous to win 2024, it would make sense for party officials and members to eliminate the delusion that elections are won from the EC strong room, and that we lost 2020 from the EC strong room. Elections are won and lost at the polling stations.
“How can a party that has admitted that it was unable to collate its 2020 results claim it lost from the strong room? Which result did the party give to its agents in the strong room? Why hasn’t the party put out its results if indeed there was one? What is there to gain from deluding ourselves into another defeat? God forbids! Let’s own up to our collective mistakes and errors and stop the blame game. There is nothing to gain from self-delusion,” Kpessa Whyte is quoted to have said by asaaseradio.com.
He added “We must be truthful to ourselves. If we are serious about rescuing Ghana, then let’s stop trying to hide our collective negligence by blaming people who otherwise were sacrificing on the frontline for our cause”.
The scholar reiterated that he chose to write about the issue out of concern that neglecting to confront the issues observed in the 2020 elections would hinder their chances of winning future elections.
However, in his recent post where he criticized Asaase Radio, Kpessa-Whyte emphasized his stance regarding the Electoral Commission’s role in the NDC’s defeat in the 2020 presidential election.
The man who was driving the car, who is in his thirties, and a little boy who is nine years old were declared dead right where the accident occurred.
Two more people, a woman who is in her 30s and a four-year-old girl, were quickly taken to the hospital, but unfortunately, the girl passed away soon after.
The driver of the big truck was not badly hurt in the accident.
Detective Constable Anna Andrew expressed that this is a very sad and tragic event. Our condolences go out to the people who have passed away, their families, and everyone else who was involved or affected by this incident.
Emergency workers came to the area, and we appreciate that people from the public also helped when the accident occurred. We want to thank everyone who responded and assisted in this terrible and very upsetting situation.
We are helping and investigating the collision to find out everything about what happened. We are also supporting the families of the people involved.
The police want to talk to anyone who saw the accident or has a recording from their car’s dashboard camera.
A massive quarry explosion in Western Region‘s Shama district has tragically claimed numerous lives and caused injuries.
As reported by 3news on X, the blast has caused extensive property damage and created significant ground fissures.
Evidently, bloodstains are visible at various blast sites. Promptly, the Ghana Police and Fire Service have arrived at the scene and are collaborating to manage the situation.
More soon
🚨Breaking News: Huge explosion at a quarry in the Shama district of the Western Region leaving many dead and injured.
The 75-year-old was harmed after hitting trees near to the runway as he landed at the Santa Cilia aerodrome close the northern Spanish city of Jaca.
Crisis responders gotten an alarm around 4pm recently saying he was cognizant and complaining of neck torment.
Nearby reports said he was lively for around 40 minutes after the mishap but was articulated dead at the scene after losing awareness and going into cardiac capture.
Individuals of an discuss club who knew him well since he had been going to the aerodrome for more than 20 a long time are caught on to have been with him within the minutes after the mischance.
The dead man, who has not been authoritatively named, is said to have been a standard at the aerodrome since 1999 and been a part of another flying club within the UK where he was a chef.
An examination into the mishap is presently underway.
Photographs of the mishap scene appeared the harmed lightweight flyer in undergrowth close the runway with its cleared out wing against a fallen tree.
Police tape had been put up around the fixed-wing flying machine.
The dead man was voyaging alone within the single-seat lightweight flyer.
An anonymous companion told a nearby paper said: ‘We saw him coming in to arrive from the aerodrome, ‘Perhaps he was going a small quick and high but we’ll got to hold up to see what the investigation says.
‘We’ve known him a long time. He was chef at an awfully imperative flying club within the south of London.
‘He’s went through up to four months of the year here at times since of the enthusiasm he had for flying.’
Yesterday’s mishap was the primary within the province of Huelva, which Jaca is portion of.
Santa Cilia aerodrome is respected as one of the leading areas in Spain for floating, with the thermals and discuss streams within the zone making it a reference point for both beginners and experts.
Much obliged to its position at the foothills of the Pyrenean run, it is conceivable to appreciate a delight flight over the marvelous Pyrenees.
The aerodrome facilitated the Spanish National Coasting Championships in 2010 and is gone to yearly by hundreds of lightweight flyer pilots from all over Europe.
The National Communications Officer for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC),Sammy Gyamfi, has contested claims that Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, independently ordered the interdiction of three senior police officers caught on tape plotting against him.
Sammy Gyamfi asserts that it was, in fact, the Police Council, led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, that collectively endorsed the interdiction of Commissioner of Police (COP) George Alex Mensah, Superintendent Emmanuel Eric Gyebi, and Superintendent George Lysander Asare.
Speaking on TV3, he said “This meeting was held on Thursday with Bawumia in the chair. They had the meeting late into the night, check from your intel in the police service. The meeting resolved unanimously that these people should be interdicted,”
Sammy Gyamfi highlighted that although the IGP possessed the authority to interdict the officers, he chose to delegate the decision to the Police Council and abstained from the discussions.
“This was not even the IGP exercising his powers under Regulation 105 for somebody to say that this is a conflict of interest,” he stated.
On Thursday, September 7, 2023, the Ghana Police Service announced the interdiction of three senior police officers involved in a recorded plot to oust Dampare.
“The Police Service has interdicted Commissioner of Police (COP) Mr. George Alex Mensah, Superintendent Mr. Emmanuel Eric Gyebi and Superintendent Mr. George Lysander Asare in connection with the audio tape which has become a subject matter of investigation by Parliament.
“The interdiction is to make way for disciplinary proceedings into their conduct in line with Police Service regulations,” the statement said.
Nevertheless, within 24 hours of the interdiction, the police reversed their decision pending the outcome of a parliamentary inquiry into the leaked recordings.
Inhabitants woken up by the tremors and the sounds of cherished ones shouting in dread fled their homes into the haziness on Friday night, where they remained until sunshine crouched in fear of post-quake tremors.
Crisis laborers are presently in a race against time to discover survivors in the midst of the rubble after the passing toll surged to at slightest 1,0372,012 with 2,059 individuals harmed – 1,404 of whom are said to be in a basic condition.
That number is anticipated to rise as rescuers battle to reach inaccessible ranges within the Chart book Mountains hit hardest. The shudder was the greatest to hit Morocco in 120 a long time, and toppled buildings and dividers in antiquated cities made from stone and masonry not planned to resist shakes.
Most of the little town of Moulay Brahim, carved into a mountainside south of Marrakech, was dreadful after dividers disintegrated, windows smashed and more than a dozen homes were diminished to heaps of concrete and bowed metal shafts.
Ayoub Toudite said he had been working out with companions at the exercise center when ‘we felt a gigantic shake like it was doomsday’.
In 10 seconds, he said, everything was gone.
‘We found casualties and individuals running and kids crying,’ he told The Related Press. ‘We never saw anything like this, 20 passings within the region, 30 injuries.’
Pictures broadcast by neighborhood media appeared a expanding gap within the side of a domestic and a car underneath the remains of a building brought down by the shake.
In Marrakech, the popular Koutoubia Mosque, built within the 12th century, endured harm, but the degree was not quickly clear.
Its 226-foot minaret is known as the ‘roof of Marrakech’.
Moroccans moreover posted recordings appearing harm to parts of the celebrated ruddy dividers that encompass the ancient city, a UNESCO World Legacy location.
British writer Martin told Jay BBC Radio 4’s Nowadays program that he had fair settled into rest when it hit. ‘The to begin with indicate was my spouse screaming,’ he said.
‘We both had gestured off to rest – but not into profound rest – fair into that light sleep I assume … and she begun shouting, and I fair sort of opened my eyes and couldn’t very connect the dabs up.
‘I couldn’t very liken the circumstance, I couldn’t envision I was within the center of an seismic tremor. Everything was vibrating, everything, the bed, the floor, the four walls.’
Portion of their domestic was harmed by the seismic tremor, with a few of the brick dividers collapsing from the tremors.
Be that as it may, Mr Jay said he had built his room out of wood, which ‘probably’ spared his life.
He said specialists cautioned the open not to go back into their homes after the seismic tremor.
‘There were reports coming through on Moroccan media caution individuals not to go back into their homes,’ he said. ‘This was a across the country message that was put out by the specialists.
‘So, you have got this abnormal evening of nearly each single town in Morocco, most individuals are sitting on the ground exterior of their houses or flat pieces, since they were anxious of the moment seismic tremor which they anticipated would come two hours afterward.
‘Thank God it didn’t.’ Prof Charge McGuire, Teacher Emeritus of Geophysical & Climate Hazards at UCL, said: ‘Morocco isn’t the primary put that comes to intellect when individuals think of seismic tremors, but they do happen.
‘This one, in any case, is particularly expansive for the locale – the greatest in more than 120 a long time – and, as the climbing passing toll demonstrates, dangerous.
‘The issue is that where dangerous seismic tremors are uncommon, buildings are basically not developed heartily sufficient to manage with solid ground shaking, so numerous collapse coming about in tall casualties.
‘I would anticipate the ultimate death toll to climb into the thousands once more is known. As with any enormous tremor, consequential convulsions are likely, which is able lead to assist casualties and ruin look and rescue.’
World pioneers advertised to send in help or protect groups as condolences poured in from nations around Europe, a Gather of 20 summit in India, nations around Europe, the Mideast and past.
Turkey’s president, whose nation misplaced tens of thousands of individuals in a gigantic seismic tremor prior this year, was among those proposing help. France and Germany, with huge populaces of individuals with Moroccan beginnings, moreover advertised to assist.
And the pioneers of both Ukraine and Russia communicated back for Moroccans.
The Moroccan government has not formally inquired for offer assistance, a step required in arrange for exterior protect groups to be brought in. The US Topographical Study said the shake had a preparatory size of 6.8 when it hit at 11.11pm nearby time, with shaking that kept going a few seconds.
It detailed a size 4.9 aftershock hit 19 minutes afterward.
The epicenter of Friday’s tremor was close the town of Ighil in Al Haouz Area, generally 43 miles south of Marrakech.
The USGS said the epicenter was 11 miles underneath the Earth’s surface, whereas Morocco’s seismic office put it at seven miles down. Such shallow shakes are more unsafe.
Beginning reports propose harms and passings were extreme all throughthe Marrakech-Safi locale, which more than 4.5 million individuals call domestic, concurring to state figures.
Seismic tremors are generally uncommon in North Africa. Lahcen Mhanni, Head of the Seismic Checking and Caution Division at the National Organized of Geophysics, told 2M TV that the seismic tremor was the most grounded ever recorded within the mountain locale.
In 1960, a size 5.8 tremor struck close the Moroccan city of Agadir and caused thousands of passings.
The Agadir shudder incited changes in development rules in Morocco, but many buildings, especially provincial homes, are not built to resist such tremors.
In 2004, a 6.4 size seismic tremor close the Mediterranean coastal city of Al Hoceima cleared out more than 600 dead.
Friday’s tremor was felt as distant absent as Portugal and Algeria, concurring to the Portuguese Established for Ocean and Environment and Algeria’s Gracious Defense organization, which oversees emergency response.
Prominent National Democratic Congress (NDC) member and University of Ghana political science lecturer, Professor Michael Kpessa Whyte, has confessed that the party’s flawed collation system, not Electoral Commission Chairperson Mrs. Jean Mensa, was responsible for its 2020 election defeat.
In a message congratulating the NDC’s newly appointed officials, Professor Michael Kpessa Whyte, who was among the three witnesses testifying at the Supreme Court in 2021 in support of the election petition filed by the NDC’s unsuccessful presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, expressed that it would be unrealistic for party members to attribute the NDC’s 2020 election loss solely to the actions or inactions of the EC.
Below is the full post of Professor Michael Kpessa Whyte
“I wish to congratulate all the newly appointed officers for various positions in our party – the NDC ahead of the 2024 elections. The team is refreshingly solid, but they need our collective support to succeed. They harbor the seeds that will birth our victory, so let’s support them.
But I also wish to use the opportunity to address an issue that ought to be given attention if our fight to win is to succeed. It is an issue I want to bring to the attention of the new officers, especially Dr. Edward Omani Boamah, my classmate and friend for several years in his role as the Director of Elections for our party.
I opt to address this publicly because many have deluded themselves on account of the subject matter in a manner that is not helpful for our party.
Indeed, if our party, the NDC is truly desirous to win 2024, it would make sense for party officials and members to eliminate the delusion that elections are won from the EC strong room, and that we lost 2020 from the EC strongroom. Elections are won and lost at the polling stations.
How can a party that has admitted that it was unable to collate its 2020 results claim it lost from the strongroom?
Which result did the party give to its agents in the strongroom?
Why hasn’t the party put out its results if indeed there was one? What is there to gain from deluding ourselves into another defeat?
God forbids! Let’s own up to our collective mistakes and errors and stop the blame game. There is nothing to gain from self-delusion.
We must be truthful to ourselves. If we are serious about rescuing Ghana, then let’s stop trying to hide our collective negligence by blaming people who otherwise were sacrificing on the frontline for our cause. Sometimes, one gets the sense that some people in our party project their corrupted values on others and draw funny conclusions.
I recall, in those days in the EC strongroom, out of concern and worry that results from our party was not reaching us, I placed a message on one of the key NDC platform to ask for help, I was immediately advised to delete the message because it may fall in the hands of the NPP, and they will get to know we had a problem.
That advice got me thinking why on an internal party platform we can not trust ourselves, it made me wonder if we are truly serious for victory.
Not knowing that at the time the party’s results collation system had broken down, yet nobody even cared enough to inform us, but everyone was hoping we could bring victory. How unrealistic and pathetic can we be !
The current National Chairman, General secretary, and several others who contested for national positions were unequivocal that NDC was unable to collate results and used that as campaign messages in their respective contests.
So why do we ignore that truth and persist in trying to make it appear as though our problem was from the EC strongroom?
For instance, at a meeting with delegates from various constituencies in the Greater Accra region held in Prampram, on December 12, 2022, Hon. Fifi Kwatey was categorical that Rojo Mettle-Nunoo and Kpessa-Whyte could not, cannot, and should not be blamed for the electoral misfortunes of the NDC in 2020 elections.
Similar comments were heard in a widely circulated audio that is purported to have emanated from the campaigns of the former General Secretary and now National Chairman, Hon. Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
And for those who keep asking why the two agents left the EC strongroom at the same time, be careful what you ask for because you might not like the answers.
Do you honestly think Rojo and Kpessa-Whyte left the EC strongroom on their own without first discussing it with persons in position within the party hierarchy?
Are you aware the party through its lawyers brought a petition to the EC, and they refused to take it?
Do you know how we got there? And who says at the time we were leaving the strong room, there was no NDC person there?
Our decision to remain silent in order to hold our party together has been taken to mean we are to be blamed, and surprisingly, some of those who are beneficiaries of our deliberate silence have joined the delusion for personal convenience.
After careful reflections, I have come to what is perhaps a belated conclusion, that continuous silence on such important issues might amount to doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result; and I see this time of new officers picking up the mantle in crucial positions and roles in our party, as probably the best time to start these conversations.
So, this piece is based on, and guided by the best of intensions, hoping that it will prompt some collective self-introspection and rude awakening across various levels of the party in our quest for victor in 2024.
We all want NDC and JM to win, but victory will not come if we continue to delude ourselves. Let’s speak openly about the institutional errors and systemic failures we encountered so that those in charge now, can benefit from that to improve their operations and help harvest the victory we are all desirous to see from the December 2024 elections. Enough of the pretense, John Mahama deserves better!”
He asserts that there is no animosity, as both groups historically united.
These comments were made during a visit from Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, who informed him of the passing of the Ga State Queen Mother, Her Royal Majesty Naa Dedei Omaadru III, on December 26, 2022, in Accra.
Otumfuo noted his positive relationship with the late Ga Mantse, Boni Nii Amugi II, and a similar bond forming with his successor, Nii Teiko Tsuru II.
“I had a good relationship with Nii Amugi. When I was young, I used to visit him at Abelekpe when I stayed at Alago. I also somethings went to the palace at Kaneshie to visit him… I even visited him at the hospital when he was sick.
“I saying all this to let you understand that Gas and Ashantis are united, there is no enmity between us. My brother who has now taken over (the Ga Mantse) and I are also having a good relationship… We are continuing the good relationship we have had,” he said in Twi.
On Thursday, September 7, 2023, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, formally conveyed the news of the passing of the Ga State Queen Mother, Her Royal Majesty Naa Dedei Omaadru III, to Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Her Royal Majesty Naa Dedei Omaadru III had passed away on December 26, 2022, in Accra.
To fulfill this solemn duty, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II dispatched a delegation consisting of some of his sub-chiefs to provide official notification to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, while also discussing the arrangements for her funeral.
Opemsuo Radio, based in Kumasi, shared a video capturing the interactions between the Ga Mantse’s delegation, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and his entourage at the Manhyia Palace.
A member of the delegation invited Otumfuo to sign the book of condolences for the late queen, which had also been signed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
In his remarks, Otumfuo expressed gratitude to the Ga Mantse, whom he referred to as his brother, for the thoughtful gesture and the invitations extended. He also conveyed his condolences to Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II and the Ga community.
Four students of Ofori Panin Senior High School (OPASS), have been allocated police escorts because of their alleged involvement in a variety of criminal activities, including robbery, are writing the West Africa Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) this year.
63 additional applicants are escorted by their parents or legal guardians.
Among these candidates receiving police protection, one is currently on remand and is taking the exams from the Akyem Tafo Police cells. This arrangement stems from a prior incident in July this year when a deboardinized student, Kelvin Bonzy, who had been granted bail by the police for robbery, was fatally attacked by a mob in Koforidua while attempting to rob a female student from Koforidua Technical University (KTU).
The remaining 63 students who arrived with their parents or guardians are believed to have engaged in various forms of misconduct on campus prior to the final examination.
To distinguish these 67 candidates who have been listed for various forms of misconduct, they are required to wear an all-white uniform to school. This decision aligns with the directive issued by the Ghana Education Service (GES) aimed at addressing spontaneous indiscipline among final year students after registering for the WASSCE. The directive empowers school management to deboardinize students found guilty of gross misconduct, while those involved in criminal activities are to be handed over to the police.
In a separate incident at the Ofori Panin Senior High School examination center, during the English Language paper, a candidate was partially undressed by an official for wearing attire that did not comply with the prescribed dress code. The student had worn a white top and brown khaki shorts instead of the required all-white attire, resulting in the official removing the shorts, leaving the candidate in boxer shorts to continue the examination.
These incidents highlight reports of maltreatment and intimidation of candidates at the examination center, raising concerns about the treatment of students during the examination process.
Semen, the fluid produced by the male reproductive system, does contain a variety of nutrients and compounds. While it is generally safe to swallow small amounts of semen, it’s essential to note that the concentrations of these nutrients are typically low and not significant for nutritional purposes. However, if you have specific allergies or concerns, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional. Here are some of the nutrients found in semen:
Fructose: Provides energy for sperm.
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): An antioxidant that supports sperm health.
Calcium: Essential for muscle function and blood clotting.
Vitamin B12: Important for overall health and energy metabolism.
Zinc: Vital for immune function, wound healing, and cell division.
Chlorine: An essential nutrient for maintaining cell structure.
Magnesium: Necessary for muscle and nerve function.
Potassium: Important for maintaining proper heart and muscle function.
Citric Acid: Contributes to the overall acidity of semen.
While these nutrients are present, it’s crucial to emphasize that the quantities are minimal and not sufficient to replace a balanced diet. If you have any concerns or allergies, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional or allergist.
Previously ranked third in the super delegates’ conference, he was considered a strong contender for the position.
However, his sudden withdrawal, scheduled for November 2023, has surprised many.
Residents in the Ashanti Region, including areas like the Kwabre East Municipal, Suame, Kumasi Metro, and Tafo, have shared varied opinions in response.
Here are some responses gathered by Ghanaweb
“I heard it through the news just this morning and I was deeply worried. He was supposed to be patient. It seems to me that Alan gives up too early. If he had stayed in the competition, people would have voted for him. If he had fought forward, things would have been turned for his good. I see it as a wrong move if he decides to go his way. If he establishes his party, it wouldn’t help because he is not going to bring his numbers to the NPP and we all belong to the NPP”, a lady who identified herself as Maame Afia said.
“I was shocked because the NPP leaders didn’t try at all. They’ve used dubious means to take him out. I urge them to think twice about his decision and invite him. This is because Alan has a very strong supporter base. There are some of his supporters who may decide not to vote. His withdrawal is going to badly affect them. We hear them hailing Bawumia but I tell them, Ghana is neither for Bawumia nor Nana Addo”.
It’s for all of us. What they have done to Alan has hurt all of us and this has even influenced my decision. I tell you, I’m going to vote for John Dramani Mahama. I can even see Alan going as an independent candidate because I’m not sure he’s going to end his political career anytime soon”. Acheampong at Adum PZ told GhanaWeb.
“I became worried because Alan is for us. He’s a father we loved and his resignation hurt me most. I started following NPP long ago before Kuffour’s time. We plead with Alan to stay in the party to play the role of Bawumia’s uncle”, a resident expressed his views.
Despite the majority of these residents expressing shock, some others said they were not surprised due to how Alan was ill-treated at the party.
“It is finished. The NPP leadership must jubilate now. Why must you treat Alan as though he is not a human being or he is a stranger in the party? His withdrawal is badly going to affect the party if they don’t know”, a disappointed woman who spoke to GhanaWeb at Kejetia said.
“I was not hurt when Alan resigned and besides, I see it as nothing. Most of the young guys in the party today do not even know Alan. I see his time has passed. His resignation is not going to affect the party anyway. He was known during Kuffour’s era. If he decides to pull out of the party to form another one, it will surely affect the party”. Danny, a mechanic at Magazine told GhanaWeb.
Amid the range of perspectives, most residents view Alan’s withdrawal as a significant setback for the party, particularly if he chooses to run independently or establish a new party.
A concerned resident said, “If he decides to form another party or go as independent, it will go against the party”.
A well-known TikTok user, Verydarkman, has leveled accusations of fraud against Nollywood actress Uche Jombo.
The TikToker strongly criticized the actress for engaging in deceptive advertising practices, branding her as both a fraudster and deceitful.
He highlighted that Uche, much like numerous other celebrities, doesn’t actually use many of the products they endorse but promotes them solely for financial gain.
Verydarkman observed how many of her unsuspecting and gullible fans believe she genuinely uses the product, leading them to purchase the lotion with the hope of attaining a complexion similar to hers, only to find themselves with damaged skin.
“Why will Uche Jombo apply make-up on her face to do a skincare advert behaving like it’s the cream making her glow when she’s actually not glowing? You can tell she is wearing makeup in that video and she’s smiling and singing Brow Skin Girl, meanwhile, the color of the skin on her face is different from the one on her hand. You are a fraud, this is a fraud advertisement and its wickedness.
It’s clear that you do not personally use the cream, yet you exploit the trust of your innocent and easily influenced followers by showcasing your skin and attempting to sell them a product while deceiving them, all for the sake of financial gain. This can ultimately harm their well-being.
Ghanaian gospel artist Florence Obinim has refuted allegations of undergoing cosmetic surgery to enhance her physique. She asserts that her naturally beautiful body is an inheritance from her mother.
During an interview with Ghpage, as reported by Graphic Showbiz, Florence Obinim revealed that her mother, named Akosua, had a substantial backside and hips. She clarified that her body’s appearance had been further accentuated by post-pregnancy weight gain, but she achieved her desired physique through dedicated gym workouts.
“My butts are natural, after giving birth to all my children, I did some serious gym work and I was very particular about my stomach because if you have a flat tummy, your butt and hips will automatically be very visible” she explained.
Florence Obinim, known for her hit songs like “Mehyia Jesus” and “Osoro Ne Mefie,” shared that her journey towards achieving her desired body began after she faced body-shaming on live television.
Her musical talent blossomed during her formative years as a singer at a branch of the Assemblies of God church in Kumasi. Inspired by South Africa’s Rebecca Malope, she released her debut song, “Osoro ne me fie,” and has since delighted her audience with tracks like “Wagye me,” “Oben me,” “Mehia w’adom,” “Mdimafo,” “Mahunu bi da,” and “Ma me nyansa.”
Two people died and over 100 people were injured after Hong Kong experienced its heaviest rainfall ever recorded since 1884.
A video shows water flowing down hills and flooding streets, malls, metro stations, and tunnels up to the waist deep.
The roads have broken and there have been landslides in many areas.
I’ve never seen scenes like this before. In other typhoons before, it wasn’t as bad as this time. “I find it very scary,” said Connie Cheung, a 65-year-old assistant nurse from Hong Kong.
The severe weather, caused by typhoon Haikui, also created disorder in the nearby Chinese city of Shenzhen, which is a center for technology and has more than 17. 7
Even though the typhoon became less powerful and turned into a tropical depression, its slow-moving clouds released a lot of rain on areas that were still trying to recover from a very strong typhoon that occurred one week earlier.
Hong Kong’s weather bureau issued its most severe ‘black’ rainstorm warning this morning.
There was a lot of rain in Hong Kong recently, which caused a flash flood and landslides. It rained a lot in Hong Kong’s main island, Kowloon district, and northeastern part of the New Territories on Thursday. They recorded 200mm (7. 9ins)
The highest level of emergency alerts, known as the ‘black’ alert, has been reduced. However, authorities have cautioned about the potential dangers due to ongoing flooding.
John Lee, the person in charge of the city, said he was very worried about the serious flooding in most areas of the territory. He also mentioned that he had told all departments to make a huge effort in responding to this situation. Meanwhile, Eric Chan, who is in charge of administration, said that Hong Kong’s transportation system has been severely affected and a situation of extreme conditions will continue until midnight today.
Pictures on social media showed that when a part of the road collapsed, some of the roads were damaged and a car got stuck in a large pothole.
The news channel on TV stated that someone who was brought to the hospital by rescue workers was announced dead when they arrived at the hospital. Schools are closed, workers are told to stay at home, and Hong Kong’s stock exchange is not open.
In Shenzhen, there was a lot of rain. It measured 465. 5 millimeters, which is equal to 1. 5 feetThis happened in a span of 12 hours. It is the highest amount of rainfall recorded since 1952 when they started keeping records.
Videos from official media show people in the city using safety lines to help them walk carefully through water that reaches up to their knees. It has been said that today all schools, certain subway stations, and offices in that area have been closed.
The person in charge of investigating crimes in Cuba’s interior ministry, Cesar Rodriguez, said that out of the 17 people who were arrested, at least three of them were involved in trying to recruit others.
He didn’t say who the people in the network were, but he mentioned that they had been in trouble with the law before.
On Friday, a few families started to voice their opinions about the situation. One mother said that her son was assured a job in building things in Russia.
Cuba’s government found out that a group from Russia was trying to convince Cubans in Russia and Cuba to join them in fighting in Ukraine.
They said the police were trying to stop and take apart the network.
The foreign ministry said in a news release that Cuba is not involved in the war in Ukraine.
Cuba and Russia are friends in politics and Cubans can visit Russia without needing a visa. In May 2023, a newspaper in Ryazan, Russia, reported that some people from Cuba signed up to join the army at a military recruitment office there. The city of Ryazan is located about 100 miles southeast of Moscow.
The Ryazanskiye Vedomosti newspaper reported that some Cubans were in Russia to assist with completing tasks in a special military operation area.
It also said that some of them want to become citizens of Russia in the future.
In Havana, lawyer Jose Luis Reyes said on the state TV that authorities are looking into people who have done crimes like working as a soldier for hire or convincing others to become soldiers for hire. These individuals might be punished with up to 30 years in jail, life imprisonment, or even the death sentence.
Marilin Vinent, who is 60 years old, said on Friday that her son Dannys Castillo, who is 27 years old, is one of the Cubans chosen to work in Russia.
She told me that her son and some other Cubans went to Russia at the end of July from their home in Havana. They were offered job opportunities in construction.
‘Everyone was tricked,’ she said.
She showed pictures of her son on her phone to the reporters. Some of the pictures showed him wearing military clothes.
She said that her son told her he agreed to go to Russia because he wanted to financially support the family. The island is going through tough times economically, with people not having enough of certain things.
I’m not sure if my son is alive. She said we have no knowledge about anything. I want to have a conversation with him.
In Russia, people from other countries can join the army if they sign an agreement with the defense ministry.
Starting from September 2022, foreigners who have spent a year serving in the Russian army can apply for Russian citizenship in an easier way, without needing to get a residency permit beforehand.
Russian media recently reported that the government is not allowing Tajik people to become citizens until they sign a contract with the defense ministry and join the army.
North Korea celebrated its 75th anniversary with a big event where Russian diplomats and a delegation from China were present.
The event on Friday in the main square of Pyongyang had people dressed in similar clothes and looked like they were part of a military group.
The leader of North Korea, Kim Jong-un, as well as a Russian singing and dancing group from the military, and officials from Beijing were all present.
The event comes after people heard that Mr. Kim might meet with Vladimir Putin this month.
The Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, refused to give any information when asked about it by a journalist in Moscow on Saturday, as reported by the Interfax news agency.
Mr Putin sent a message to Mr Kim to celebrate the 75th anniversary of North Korea’s establishment. He said he believes both countries will keep improving their relationship in all areas.
He said this would make sure to keep the Korean peninsula and northeast Asia safe and stable. MrPutin said that the Soviet Union was the first country to acknowledge and support the North Korean government. He said that the two countries have had a relationship based on friendship, being good neighbors, and respecting each other.
Earlier this week, the Russian embassy in Pyongyang announced that they were given permission to bring in 20 diplomatic and technical staff.
The Korean Central News Agency announced that Kim Il Sung Square was filled with happiness and everyone at the parade praised and thanked Kim Jong Un for being a great leader.
Chinese President Xi Jinping made a phone call to Kim Jong Un to congratulate him on the anniversary, according to Chinese state media.
A group of people from China, led by Liu Guozhong, who is a high-ranking government official, went to the parade and had a meeting with Mr.
The event had paramilitary forces instead of regular army soldiers. The country’s banned weapons, like ballistic missiles, were not shown at the event, as reported by state media.
Following the closure of the Eurotunnel, a specialized explosive team has been summoned to investigate an unusual vehicle.
The police have caught a potential criminal and they have blocked off the area to keep it secure. The incident is not related to the current search for the suspected terrorist Daniel Khalife.
A representative from Kent Police said that on Friday 8 September 2023, a strange car was stopped at the Channel Tunnel terminal in Cheriton around 10:30 am.
The British Army has sent experts in explosives to the location. For the safety of the public, an area has been blocked off. This is currently affecting traffic going towards the terminal. A man has been captured in relation to the event, and investigations are still happening.
The police haven’t given any more information about the suspect yet. Kent Police says they are still investigating.
The incident has led to very long lines on the way to the terminal, and services are currently not running in Folkestone.
Shuttle services are temporarily stopped while emergency services handle the situation.
A person who speaks for Eurotunnel, which is now called LeShuttle, has said that travel will be greatly affected and suggested that customers should check their website for more information.
The spokesperson said that a suspicious car was stopped at the Channel Tunnel Terminal in Folkestone during a regular security check.
The police in Kent are handling the situation with the help of specialized officers. Access to the Folkestone terminal is currently stopped because the police are dealing with a situation.
Some people who were traveling have been moved to boat services in the nearby town of Dover. Right now, the shuttles that are coming are running on schedule and the Eurostar train services from Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam are not being affected.
James Lutterodt, a finalist from Keta Senior High Technical School (KETASCO) in the 2021 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), was laid to rest today, September 9, 2023.
Videos capturing moments from James Lutterodt’s funeral service have surfaced online, reflecting the heartfelt farewells from numerous Ghanaians as he embarked on his final journey.
The funeral and burial service for James Lutterodt were conducted at his alma mater, Keta Senior High School, with the presence of his family, friends, school authorities, and fellow KETASCO students.
At the age of 19, this young talent, a Computer Science student at the University of Ghana, reportedly succumbed to food poisoning.
Moreover, a pre-burial service occurred on Friday, September 8, 2023, at the Tema Community Centre in Accra, attended by family, friends, and well-wishers who came together to pay their respects to this promising individual.
Investigative journalist Kemi Olunloyo has made startling allegations against Nigerian music artist Davido. Known for her unconventional assertions and speculations, Olunloyo recently suggested a surprising connection between Davido‘s private jet and potential drug trafficking.
Olunloyo’s statement has garnered significant attention and raised many eyebrows due to its implication of a serious and legally consequential matter.
Accusing an individual or their assets of involvement in drug trafficking is a grave allegation with profound legal and reputational ramifications.
It is worth noting that Kemi Olunloyo acknowledges that Davido may not be aware of any such illicit activity involving his private jet. Her intention appears to be to bring attention to a matter of concern.
“Urgent: Someone on Davido’s private jet is a drug trafficker. Many pilots are refusing to fly the Adeleke jet. Davido must weed them out. Drug abuse keeps ruining lives. David must help curb this war on drugs before he gets into serious trouble with global drug enforcement agencies,” she wrote.*
Urgent: Someone on Davido's private jet is a drug trafficker. Many pilots are refusing to fly the Adeleke jet. Davido must weed them out. Drug abuse keeps ruining lives. David must help curb this war on drugs before he gets into serious trouble with global drug enforcement… pic.twitter.com/8xA3KBGPou
Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie recently found himself embroiled in a controversial video that surfaced on social media.
In the video, Sarkodie was observed discreetly admiring the curves and posterior of a young lady, moments after exchanging greetings with her at a public event.
This incident unfolded while Sarkodie was seated alongside his manager, Angel Town, and his official DJ, DJ Mensah.
A young lady with short hair, donning a vibrant orange bodycon dress that highlighted her curves, approached the rapper’s seating area. She warmly embraced Sarkodie before proceeding to hug DJ Mensah.
During her embrace with DJ Mensah, the 2019 BET awardee was observed craning his neck and tilting his head to catch a glimpse of the lady’s backside. The reason for his interest in doing so remains a mystery, but he appeared to appreciate the lady’s attractive appearance.
