TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • CLOGSAG declares withdrawal of 15% VAT directive as ‘only condition to stop’ their demonstration 

    CLOGSAG declares withdrawal of 15% VAT directive as ‘only condition to stop’ their demonstration 

    Executive Secretary of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG), Isaac Bampoe-Addo, has declared that the planned nationwide demonstration by Organised Labour is inevitable unless the government takes immediate action to withdraw a contentious directive.

    Speaking in an interview, Mr Bampoe-Addo asserted that no institution, particularly the Ghana Police Service, has the authority to prevent their planned street protest on the scheduled date of February 13.

    “I can assure you that the only thing that can stop us is the withdrawal of this letter. The law is saying we should just notify the police; the police cannot tell us not to go on our demonstration, so we are just notifying them,” stated Bampoe-Addo emphatically,” he said on JoyNews.

    At the heart of the brewing conflict is the Finance Ministry’s directive to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO) to implement a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on residential electricity consumption. Bampoe-Addo emphasized that the only resolution to prevent the planned demonstration is for the government to retract this directive.

    “The only thing that can stop this demonstration from happening is when the government, through the Finance Ministry, withdraws this letter directing ECG and NEDCO to implement 15% VAT on electricity,” he added during the Sunday interview.

    Bampoe-Addo warned that his association, joined by 35 other organised labor unions, is prepared to embark on a mammoth demonstration should the government refuse to reconsider the VAT implementation.

    This statement follows the steadfast opposition of organised labor unions against the 15% VAT on residential electricity consumption, expressing concerns that such measures would exacerbate the financial burdens faced by citizens.

    On the same show, Prof Mamudu Akudugu, the President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), dismissed claims that workers are being unfair to the government. According to Akudugu, it is the citizens who are feeling the brunt of excessive taxes, stating, “It is the other way round since the populace is being suffocated by taxes.”

    As the February 13 demonstration date looms large, the standoff between Organised Labour and the government intensifies, raising questions about the potential impact on public services and the broader socio-economic landscape in Ghana. The nation watches closely as tensions escalate, awaiting developments that could shape the trajectory of this highly charged situation.

  • Ghana imports cocoa to help chocolate production companies – COCOBOD

    Ghana imports cocoa to help chocolate production companies – COCOBOD

    Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has justified the approval of requests by companies to import Cocoa beans from Ghana’s neighboring countries. 

    In a statement, COCOBOD clarified that this has been a practice since 2001, thus the reports making rounds on social media are a misrepresentation of matters. 

    “Management of Ghana Cocoa Board has noted the widespread circulation of an official letter from the regulator to Afrotropic Cocoa Processing Company Limited. 

    “This letter, in response to the company’s request to import cocoa beans to process in Ghana has been a subject of misinterpretation on social media leading to misinformation,” COCOBOD said.

    In their explanation, COCOBOD indicated that it authorizes the import of Cocoa products from other countries to help chocolate producing companies to cut down on their cost and also help the companies meet their desired recipes for chocolate production and other uses.

    “Ghana’s cocoa is a premium cocoa and as part of cost management and operational strategy, companies often blend premium Ghana Cocoa with less  premium cocoa beans from other producing countries.

    “It is an industry practice that has existed for over 20 years to allow factories to import from other countries including, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Nigeria and Ecuador. The public is therefore urged to disregard the false claim deduced from the leaked letter,” COCOBOD further said.

  • UK issues famine warning for Ethiopia

    UK issues famine warning for Ethiopia

    At Ayder hospital in Mekelle, the main city of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, there are lots of people and noise in the hallways, like in any busy hospital. However, the children’s section of the hospital is very quiet.

    Here are children who are suffering because there is not enough food in northern Ethiopia. Mostly babies are very sick because they don’t have enough food to eat.

    Their mothers are sitting quietly next to their beds, looking off into the distance, holding their babies close to them, and hoping that the little milk they have can save their babies.

    They and Ethiopia are experiencing the effects of conflict and drought again. These problems have destroyed farms and crops, and caused millions of people to leave their homes.

    The government says 16 million people in the country don’t have enough food to eat. Almost half of them have very little or no food at all. This means that a lot of people are not just a little hungry, they are very, very hungry.

    This is the reason why Tsega Tsigabu, who is 23 years old, and her four-month-old son, Kidisty, are staying in Ayder hospital without improvement.

    However, their plants did not grow and they went to Mekelle to try to stay alive. Just like many others, they were sent to a camp because they were kicked out of their homes.

    Mrs Tsega’s husband was in the army, but he hurt his hand and can’t work now. She brought her baby to get a shot and the nurses quickly noticed that the baby was not getting enough food.

    Mrs Tsega says that even when she was pregnant, she did not eat a healthy diet. “I wasn’t making enough breast milk, so the baby didn’t get enough to eat and became malnourished. ” I was hungry because there wasn’t enough food at my house.

    “If we don’t do something now, there could be a big shortage of food,” says UK Africa minister Andrew Mitchell in an interview with the media.

    The hospital doctors say that the number of very hungry and sick children coming in has doubled since 2020 when the fighting started between Tigrayan forces and Ethiopian and Eritrean armies.

    In 2022, the fighting stopped, but many people, about one million, still can’t go back home and are still in the area affected by the conflict.

    We went with the British Africa minister, Andrew Mitchell, to Agulae, which is an hour’s drive north into the hills. There, a clinic was checking on children from nearby villages.

    He saw worried moms waiting to measure their kids’ arm size. If the arm is very skinny, the child may be malnourished. The nurses shared their charts with him and they all showed that the numbers were getting worse.

    Mr Mitchell told the media that if we don’t do something now, there is a big chance of not having enough food.

    “There are clear signs that a famine may happen soon. ” In my opinion, there is no famine happening in Ethiopia right now. We have the ability to prevent it. But if we don’t do something now, there is a high risk that a famine will happen in this country that has already suffered a lot because of the war.

    He said that Britain will give an extra £100m to help up to three million mothers and babies in Ethiopia get better healthcare. This money will be used to provide medicine and vaccines to stop deaths that could have been prevented.

    Is it probable that there will be hunger in Ethiopia.

    International organizations are careful about using a word that some consider to be inappropriate.

    It means that 20% of families don’t have enough food, 30% of young children are very malnourished, and two out of every 10,000 people die every day. Only a few people think that Ethiopia has officially met those standards.

    But for Getachew Reda, who is the president of the Tigray temporary regional government, those definitions are not important.

    He told the BBC that there is a growing famine in Tigray. He said more and more people were facing death, and criticized the international community for not doing enough to help.

    Getachew Reda, president of the Tigray interim regional administration, says there is a very bad famine happening in Tigray.

    “Many people who could have been able to feed themselves are not able to and are dying from hunger,” said Mr Getachew.

    “I don’t care if you call it famine, or a risk of famine, or a potential famine. What happened in 1985 will seem small if we don’t deal with the famine that’s happening now. ”

    He was talking about the terrible problems in the mid-1980s when a lot of people died from hunger in Tigray and other places.

    The government in Addis Ababa is mad because it disagrees that there is famine.

    Shiferaw Teklemariam, who is in charge of helping Ethiopia during disasters, said that Ethiopia is being harmed by climate change. He told local governments not to make the issue political and asked them and the international community to do more.

    “There is not enough rain, no enough food,” Mr Shiferaw told the media.

    “The government is taking the situation very seriously, and we also ask everyone else to help too. ”

    Previous times when people in Ethiopia did not have enough to eat were sometimes connected to when the leaders of the country lost power. Experts believe that the current government, led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, is worried about the protests.

    The government is working with the UN to help with the food crisis, but the economy is not doing well and there is less money to spend.

    Nobody knows exactly how bad the crisis is because it’s hard to get accurate information.

    Access to media is restricted. Many places in the north are too dangerous for aid groups to go because there is still fighting, especially in Amhara.

    In Tigray and the nearby Afar region, people are worried that the food shortage could be even more serious. Repeated stories from different places in northern Ethiopia show that things are getting worse.

    Most people agree that the world should do more to help each other.

    Last year, USAID (American development agency) and the United Nations’ World Food Programme stopped giving help for five months because a lot of the aid was being stolen, mostly to feed different armed groups.

    This has made the situation worse. The world is paying more attention to problems in the Middle East and Ukraine, so Ethiopia is not getting as much focus and support.

    The leader of the UN, Ramiz Alakbarov, said that this crisis has been forgotten. “He said the world is not paying attention. ”

    “We feel sad for all the problems happening in other places, but we also need to remember the people living here. ” We have to get things in order and donors need to give more money.

    In Mekelle, we saw the World Food Programme giving out wheat, lentils, and oil to people in need.

    Hungry people wait in line with special codes that show who they are, where they live, and what they need. But they only get a little food and don’t have much money left.

    Claire Nevill, who works for the WFP in Ethiopia, said that people need more than just food. They also need help to go back to their farms and grow their own food.

    There are still militias and Eritrean forces in some parts of the country.

    “In Ethiopia, there are many problems happening at the same time,” she said.

    “We have a lack of water, people getting better from a two-year fight, prices going up, more sickness happening, and all these things are making people even more hungry and malnourished. ” If we don’t help people get food now, things will get worse.

    We met Tsige Degef, 28, at Ayder hospital. Her 15-month old daughter, Bereket, was not getting enough food and was not healthy.

    Her story was common. During the war, Ms Tsige’s large family had to sell their oxen to buy costly grains. When there was peace, the crops didn’t grow and there was no other options for food.

    Ms Tsige was already having a hard time when Bereket got sick. She said her feet and legs were very puffy. “I was really anxious. ” She was throwing up every day. A mom is really scared when her child is sick because she does not want her child to die.

    Bereket is improving and Ms Tsige thinks she might be able to leave the hospital soon. She said she hopes that she will get better soon.

    “I want to start a tea store and sell things to make sure I can take care of my child better. ” I promise to try my best to make sure she doesn’t feel bad in the future.

  • Apostle to offer himself up for lynching if prophesy about Mahama winning elections fails 

    Apostle to offer himself up for lynching if prophesy about Mahama winning elections fails 

    Founder of Hezekiah Apostolic Prayer Ministry, Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei has offered himself up for lynching if a prophesy about former President John Dramani Mahama wining the 2024 elections. 

    Apostle Owusu Adjei in his declaration indicated that the former President will win the elections hands down if he chooses one Leslie Tamakloe as his running mate.

    Speaking at a press conference, he said: “My name is Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei and I am advertising my God, the God of Bethel; Genesis 31:13, it says, ‘I am the God of Bethel.’

    “I am saying these are the words of the God of Bethel. His excellency John Dramani Mahama, correct your mistakes from 2020, go to the Volta Region, choose Leslie Mensah Tamakloe as your running mate, you will win hands down. NDC, you have the opportunity and the possibility to rule for 30 good years,” he stated.

    It was during these remarks that Apostle Mensah said he would offer himself to be lynched if the NDC wins the election without naming Leslie Tamakloe as running mate.

    “If his Excellency John Dramani Mahama refuses and goes for any other candidate apart from Leslie Mensah Tamakloe born on the 18th of April, 1957 and wins this election, I Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei I am offering my body to be lynched by the NDC foot soldiers and grassroot supporters.

    “We will meet at former Obra Spot, Kwame Nkrumah Interchange-Dubai. Bring all your cameras, call me guilty, whatever they want to do to me; they can stone me, lash me, whatever. I said I offer myself because I am so confident in my God that there is no turning back,” he stated.

    The Apostle went on to state that he will still put himself up to be lynched if the NDC fails to win the election after heeding to the directive of his prophecy.

    Former President Mahama’s second attempt at winning Ghana’s presidency after losing the 2016 election will come off in the December polls in a contest that is set to have him and Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, New Patriotic Party flagbearer as frontrunners.

    Both leading candidates have yet to name their running mates with months left to the election.

  • Almost 37 killed in weekend fighting in Abyei region

    Almost 37 killed in weekend fighting in Abyei region

    At least 37 innocent people have been killed and 18 taken away in new attacks in a place that South Sudan and Sudan both say belongs to them.

    This is the most recent fight in a series of battles that have been happening for three years in the oil-rich area of Abyei.

    Most of the people who died in the weekend attack were women and children, according to the temporary government in the area.

    Markets and homes were set on fire and 1,000 cows were stolen.

    Two groups of young people from Warrap State in South Sudan were accused of raiding the area on Saturday and Sunday. They carried out coordinated attacks on four villages in Abyei.

    Bulis Koch Aguar, who is in charge of information, culture, youth, and sports in Abyei, criticized the attacks and asked the government in Juba to help resolve the conflict between the Ngok Dinka of Abyei and the Twic Dinka of Warrap.

    Last week, a violent attack by two groups of young people with weapons from Warrap State took place in Abyei. At least 53 people, including two UN peacekeepers, were killed in the most deadly incident in the area that is in dispute.

    Abyei is still a disputed area between Sudan and South Sudan because they have not agreed on its final status.

    More update on this story soon.

  • Enraged youth attack police in Kwahu Bepong; 25 arrested 

    Enraged youth attack police in Kwahu Bepong; 25 arrested 

    Twenty-five persons have been apprehended by the Ghana Police Service following an attack on some policemen in Kwahu Bepong by the youth of  the area. 

    The arrested persons reported vandalised properties in the area following the murder of a man and his sister. 

    According to reports the enraged youth are fighting for justice for the member of the community and his sister who were both lynched by a suspected robber. 

    Details emerging in the aftermath of the attack indicates a series of troubling incidents triggered by the murder of a man and his sister some two weeks ago.

    According to reports, a young man allegedly murdered a beer bar operator in an attempt to rob her.

    A brother of the woman who attempted to rescue the woman was also allegedly murdered by the suspect in a village closer to Bepong.

    A manhunt was launched for the suspect who fled the scene after committing the crime.

    He was subsequently apprehended by the youth of the town on Sunday who attempted to lynch him but failed due to police intervention.

    The youth are said to have sought the support of the chief of Bepong to carry out the lynching but was refused.

    Incensed by the lack of cooperation of the chief and the police in their attempt to lynch the suspect, the youth went on rampage attacking the chief’s palace and police station respectively.

    They caused damage to properties including cars and motorbikes belonging to the police and the palace.

    The Ghana Police Service in its statement in the evening of Sunday, February 4, said it had apprehended 25 individuals over the attacks.

    “The Ghana Police Service has arrested 25 people in connection with an attack on Police officers and the destruction of some properties at Kwahu Bepong in the Eastern Region.

    “Police reinforcement team working with the local Police have restored calm and things have been normalized while efforts are ongoing to get the other suspects arrested to face justice,” the police statement said.

    The police further assured of sharing further details in due course.

    Meanwhile, videos shared on social media from the attacks shows chaotic scenes in Kwahu Bepong as the rampaging youth went about the attacks.

  • Nigeria restores power after blackouts over the weekend

    Nigeria restores power after blackouts over the weekend

    Most of the cities in Nigeria have electricity back after a complete power outage on Sunday. This happened because the national power grid stopped working.

    Power generation stopped completely, and this caused many blackouts in big cities, including the capital city of Abuja.

    Many electricity companies sent sorry messages to customers all over the country for the incident.

    Nigeria’s transmission company said they fixed the national power grid and it’s working again.

    This was the first time the power grid went down this year. It fell down many times last year.

    The country has over 200 million people, but it still only makes 3500 to 4500 megawatts of electricity.

    Electricity in Nigeria is not always reliable, even though the country produces a lot of oil and gas.

  • Six people have died in the Kenyan gas disaster

    Six people have died in the Kenyan gas disaster

    Six people have died in a big gas explosion in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, on Thursday.

    Two more people died on Sunday while they were being treated at the Kenyatta National Hospital. The hospital is the biggest one in the country.

    Fifty-two more people are getting help at various hospitals.

    A big truck with gas tanks exploded just before midnight in a crowded part of the city, and it caused a lot of fires.

    The officials have said that the filling facility is against the law and it has been destroyed two times before.

    Kenyan police are looking for seven people who may be connected to the explosion. One of the suspects is the owner of the gas plant, Derrick Kimathi.

    On Saturday, President William Ruto said that bad and dishonest government workers are responsible for letting the plant operate in a neighborhood where people live.

    More update on this story soon.

  • US launches further attacks in Yemen against Houthis

    US launches further attacks in Yemen against Houthis

    The US military attacked the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen on Sunday, according to US Central Command (Centcom).

    Centcom stated that the US attacked a missile on land and four anti-ship missiles that were about to be launched at ships in the Red Sea.

    The most recent move happened after the US and UK attacked Houthi targets together.

    The US has said it will do more to stop groups supported by Iran in Iraq and Syria.

    On Friday, the US attacked targets connected to a group in Iran in Iraq and Syria. This was in response to three US soldiers being killed in a drone attack on a military base in Jordan on January 28th.

    Jake Sullivan, who advises the government on keeping the country safe, said there will be more actions taken to stop the groups causing harm.

    US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is going to the Middle East. He will visit Israel, Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the West Bank.

    Mr Sullivan said the most important thing for Mr Blinken would be to make a deal between Israel and Hamas. This deal would involve releasing hostages in exchange for stopping the fighting in Gaza.

    “We will keep pushing for it without stopping,” Mr. But now it’s up to Hamas to make a decision.

    Israel’s attack on Hamas has caused the deaths of over 26,000 Palestinians, according to the health ministry controlled by Hamas in the area. Hamas attacked southern Israel and about 1,300 people were killed.

    The Houthis started attacking ships in the Red Sea to support Hamas. This made big shipping companies avoid the area and hurt global trade.

    Egypt made almost half the money it usually does from the Suez Canal in January. The amount of ships using the canal also dropped by more than a third.

    On Saturday, the US and UK launched attacks in the southern part of Yemen’s capital city, Sana’a. A human rights activist and local resident said houses were shaking because of the strikes.

    Houthi officials talked back and said they will fight back against the US-led strikes.

    In response to the attacks on Saturday, the group’s military spokesperson, Yahya Sarea, wrote on X: “These attacks will not stop us from supporting the strong Palestinian people in Gaza. We will not ignore or let the attacks go without consequences. ”

    Before, the White House said that it’s air strikes on Iran-supported targets in Iraq and Syria are just the start of its response to Iran, not the end.

    Iran says it did not attack the US base in Jordan with a drone. A group called the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which is connected to Iran, says it is responsible.

    But the US says that Tehran was involved in the attack and claims that the drone was made in Iran.

    President Biden wrote to the US Congress and said that the strikes on Friday were aimed at buildings used by Iran’s military and their associated groups.

    Iran’s IRGC has supported and trained the Islamic Resistance in Iraq.

    Mr Biden said that the places they attacked were used for commanding, storing weapons, training, getting supplies, and other things.

    He said that the strikes were meant to stop these groups from attacking again, and were done carefully to avoid making the situation worse or hurting innocent people.

    He also said he would take more action against the IRGC and people and places connected to them if needed.

    Other countries in the region, like Iraq and Syria, are getting more and more upset about the American attack.

    “No one told us there would be a strike, not during the strike or that night,” Farhad Alaaldin, who helps the leader of Iraq, said on the BBC’s Newshour show about the strikes that happened on Friday.

    He said that whether a warning is given or not, it doesn’t change the fact that Iraq is a independent country.

    A large group of people came together in Baghdad on Sunday to show their sadness for 17 militia members who were killed in the US air strikes.

    The group shouted that America is very bad and evil, and they held up pictures of the people who had been hurt as they walked behind the ambulances carrying their bodies.

    The foreign minister of Oman said that he is very worried about the ongoing increase in tension in the area. This information was shared with the Oman News Agency.

    Badr Albusaidi is asking if the US attacks are really helping. He thinks they might make the region less safe and stable, and might make it harder to deal with problems like violence and extremism.

    Washington thinks that the attacks have “weakened the militia’s abilities” and have been effective, according to Mr. Sullivan’s statement on Sunday.

    He said the US doesn’t want to keep fighting in the Middle East for a long time, but is ready to handle any threats from any group.

    He refused to say if the US had decided not to do attacks in Iran.

    After the attacks in Iraq and Syria on Friday, American forces were also attacked, a US defense official told the media.

    The attack targeted American forces stationed at Euphrates in Syria by shooting rockets at them. The person in charge said that nobody got hurt and nothing got broken.

  • STIs “out of control” in US following 937 percent increase in infants syphilis cases

    STIs “out of control” in US following 937 percent increase in infants syphilis cases

    Sexually transmitted infections are spreading very quickly in the US, a government agency has alerted.

    In the last ten years, the number of babies born with syphilis has increased by 937%, putting their lives at risk.

    The CDC announced the update with frustration, showing that they were very disappointed, like a parent.

    It was reported that over 2. 5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were found in the United States.

    Chlamydia was the most common STI in 2022, with about 1. 6 million cases in the country. This is the most recent data available.

    Gonorrhea had the second highest number of cases, with nearly 650,000.

    Public health officials are worried about the big increase in syphilis cases. They have gone up 80% in the last five years, and now there are a total of 203,500 cases of syphilis in all stages.

    If syphilis is not treated in adults and reaches its last stage (which is very rare), it can be deadly. But if caught early, it can be treated with antibiotics.

    The sickness can be passed through having sex, either through the vagina, anus, or mouth. In the beginning, there may be sores around the mouth or genitals, and later there may be rashes all over the body and flu-like symptoms.

    Many people can have the disease but not feel sick.

    The first two stages are the most contagious, the report shows a 10% rise in 2022 and a 68% rise since 2018.

    However, the most worrying discovery was that there were 3,755 recorded cases of babies being born with syphilis.

    Congenital syphilis is when a baby gets sick because their mom has syphilis and passed it to them during pregnancy.

  • Schools in Ukraine moving underground to protect students

    Schools in Ukraine moving underground to protect students

    The war in Russia has changed everything in Kharkiv, including how children live.

    Missiles are being shot at Ukraine’s second city from Russia. The border is very close, so there is only a short amount of time to stop them.

    If they are targeting Kharkiv, it is likely that they will hit the city and it will be hard to find a safe place to hide.

    Schools and kindergartens have been closed for nearly two years because of safety concerns, and the playgrounds are empty.

    Now, as the big war continues for almost three years, some parts of life in Kharkiv are happening underground.

    In the subway, there are specially built classrooms next to the platform at five stations.

    A few months ago, the local government started to give school lessons under the streets of the city.

    Preschool classes are now available on the weekends.

    Nika’s story

    Six-year-old Nika Bondarenko gets to play with other kids again and have fun.

    After studying online for two years, she happily walks to the nearby metro station wearing bright pink rubber boots.

    She walks past destroyed military offices from the invasion, near her house. There are broken glass and damaged buildings everywhere from shrapnel.

    But when Nika is on the train going to class, her mother doesn’t have to worry anymore.

    “Parents can feel sure that their child will be safe, and the child can keep living their regular life,” says Olha Bondarenko.

    “The bad guys can’t reach us in this place. ”

    She says Nika didn’t do well in kindergarten.

    “It’s really important. ” If there are no kids outside and the air raid sirens keep going off, a child won’t be able to play with other kids.

    Kharkiv now has about 700 spaces for kids up to six years old in underground kindergartens. Three times as many children go to school in the same room.

    Some children lost their parents in the fighting or lived in areas that were attacked a lot. They need extra help from the psychologists and teachers.

    When we visited, there was music, people dancing, and a lot of laughing. Some kids are pretending to be doctors and nurses, and others are singing and playing with plastic bricks.

    Attempting to blend in and act regular.

    The workers worked really hard to make things as normal as they could.

    Next to the colorful pictures of flowers and big caterpillars on the walls, there are posters warning about the danger of mines. But when the sirens sound to warn of missiles coming, no one has to go anywhere.

    The Bondarenko family left their town because there was a war happening and Russian soldiers were trying to take over Kharkiv. There were a lot of explosions happening all the time.

    Many families lived in the metro at that time. In March 2022, I saw elderly women sleeping in train cars and babies on the train platforms with their parents.

    In September, when the Russian forces moved away, the city felt relieved and Olha and her children returned home.

    Her husband is in the army, and staying in Kharkiv meant being near him.

    I asked Nika’s sister if she is afraid of the air raids, but Viktoria shook her head.

    The siren tells us that a missile could be coming, but it’s not for sure. It’s half and half. Just believe that everything will be okay.

    The plans are being changed.

    The main problem in Kharkiv is where it is located, because it is only 40km (25 miles) away from the Russian border.

    We need new and improved ways to defend against attacks from the air. “If the missiles are hitting now, it means we don’t have enough,” Mayor Ihor Terekhov says.

    But even the newest Western systems would have a hard time at such a short distance.

    Air attacks have been happening more often since December and more kids are starting to go to the metro school.

    So the city is starting to build more permanent underground structures.

    In the Industrialny district, a new school is being built under a sports field that was badly damaged by missile strikes.

    The classrooms will be built five meters underground and can hold 900 students at different times of the day.

    Right now, it’s a long and curved shell with workers welding, putting plaster, and hitting with a hammer in every direction you look.

    The head builder says his company made a nice new zoo and changed a park before the attack. “I don’t care,” he says, lifting his shoulders.

    It makes him think of the underground shelters that were built in Soviet factories during the Cold War.

    “I don’t want us to go underground. ” The mayor says it is a safety rule that has to be followed during a site check.

    The school should be ready by the end of March, but that might be too optimistic.

    The teachers

    In another part of town, at the metro school, Olha Bondarenko talks a lot about standing up to challenges and being strong. This city is called unbreakable.

    “In Kharkiv, there was an airstrike. You feel worried for a little while, but then you wipe away your tears and continue on. ” “The mother of two says this is how everyone lives here. ”

    But here, the difference between life and death can happen in just a few seconds or a short distance.

    Olha has bad dreams about being stuck under the broken house with her kids.

    “I am really frightened of that. ” I get really scared when I think about being trapped under a pile of rocks or debris.

    The schools that are hidden underground are about adjusting and staying alive.

    “Sure, it’s weird, but what other choice do we have. We want our kids to grow up here in our country. ” In Ukraine, Natalia Bilohryshchenko tells me. In Ukraine, Natalia tells me.

    She leads the preschool education department for the city council. She says teachers are very happy to be back at work.

    They had shiny eyes. They did not see the kids.

    All of a sudden, Natalia begins to cry.

    “When things are calm, come see our regular kindergartens,” she says with tears in her eyes.

    “Everything is very sad. But it’s okay. ” Everything will be alright.

  • Adaklu MP accuses govt of dishonesty in implementing Vehicle Emission Tax

    Adaklu MP accuses govt of dishonesty in implementing Vehicle Emission Tax

    Minority Chief Whip in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Adaklu, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has criticized the government for proceeding with the implementation of the Vehicle Emission Tax, describing it as a deceptive way of reintroducing road tolls.

    Agbodza asserted that the tax, which came into effect on February 1, 2024, is not aimed at reducing emissions or combating climate change. Instead, he alleges it is a method of extracting money from motorists under the guise of environmental concerns.

    In his response on X, Kwame Agbodza challenged the government to provide clear explanations on how the tax revenue will be utilized to address environmental issues. He questioned the transparency of the government’s motives behind the implementation of the Vehicle Emission Tax.

    According to Agbodza, the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, bears responsibility for introducing what he labeled a draconian tax. He expressed skepticism about the government’s sincerity, stating, “Vehicle Emission Tax is nothing but the reintroduction of ROAD TOLLS. It has nothing to do with emissions and climate change mitigation. Government is not being honest with Ghanaians about it. If it were to be about Climate Change, they should have been telling us how the specific amounts collected will be applied.

    Dr Bawumia is to blame for the introduction of this new DRACONIAN EMISSION TAX.”

    Meanwhile, the new Vehicle Emission Tax imposes varying annual fees on different vehicle types:

    • Motorcycles & tricycles: GHS75 per annum
    • Motor vehicles, buses, and coaches up to 3000 cc: GHS150 per annum
    • Motor vehicles, buses, and coaches above 3000 cc: GHS300 per annum
    • Cargo trucks and articulated trucks: GHS300 per annum
  • Nollywood actor found guilty of treading on naira notes

    Nollywood actor found guilty of treading on naira notes

    A Nigerian actress has been given a six-month jail term for ruining money by spraying and stepping on new bills last year.

    Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin was taken by the police in February in Lagos because a video of her at a party was seen on the internet.

    The Nollywood actor showed off a lot of the new money.

    The authorities said she admitted that she was guilty after saying she was not guilty at first.

    The Nollywood star was caught on camera dancing at a friend’s wedding with a lot of money in Nigeria. The country’s anti-fraud agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), reported this happened in Lekki, Lagos a year ago.

    Omoseyin told the commission that she got the new naira notes as a gift from her fans at the party, and she didn’t know who gave her the money.

    On Thursday, Omoseyin went to court and admitted she was guilty because there was a lot of evidence against her, according to a statement from the EFCC on X.

    The actress asked for forgiveness through her lawyer. She said it was her first time getting in trouble and she has a child.

    Omoseyin, also known as Simi Gold, requested not to be sent to jail, as reported by EFCC.

    Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke decided that the defendant should go to jail for six months. But, the defendant can choose to pay a $250 fine instead.

    It is uncertain if the actress will challenge the court decision.

    The incident happened when there was not enough naira cash because the old 200, 500 and 1,000 notes were taken out of circulation.

    In November, the country’s main bank said that the old bank notes can still be used, which stopped people from being unsure about it for months.

  • Okada Riders Association threatens demonstration over Emission levy

    Okada Riders Association threatens demonstration over Emission levy

    Okada Riders Association is gearing up for a formal petition to the Ministry of Transport, scheduled for Monday, February 5, 2024, as they express concerns over the recently implemented emissions levy.

    The Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), which recently took effect, imposes a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for internal combustion engine vehicles. The tiered levy system categorizes fees based on vehicle type and engine capacity. 

    Motorcycles and tricycles are required to pay an annual fee of GHS75, while motor vehicles, buses, and coaches with an engine capacity up to 3000 cubic centimetres face an annual levy of GHS150. 

    Larger vehicles, including those above 3000 cubic centimetres, cargo trucks, and articulated trucks, are subject to an annual levy of GHS300.

    Secretary of the Okada Riders Association, Majid Amidu, highlighted the economic strain on riders due to the high levy amounts and announced their intention to submit a petition to the government.

    In an interview with Citi News, Amidu expressed the riders’ dissatisfaction, stating, “It is too much. People are suffering. You did not give us jobs, you did not do anything for us and yet you want us to pay GHS75. We will hold another meeting and write a petition to the government and the whole of Ghana that enough is enough.”

    Amidu issued a warning of potential demonstrations if the government does not consider their request for a reduction in the emissions levy.

    “If they do not reduce the levy, we will go out and demonstrate against this government. By Monday, the petition will be ready, and we will send it to the Minister.”

    The looming threat of protests underscores the growing discontent among the Okada Riders Association regarding the financial burden imposed by the emissions levy, adding a new dimension to the ongoing discussions surrounding the recently implemented tax.

  • NPP’s Nana B calls for immediate withdrawal of Emission levy

    NPP’s Nana B calls for immediate withdrawal of Emission levy

    The National Organiser of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, has strongly advocated for the withdrawal of the recently implemented Emission levy.

    Urging the government to retract the levy, Nana B emphasized its perceived unnecessary nature, stating that Ghana has not reached a stage where the imposition of such a levy on petrol and diesel vehicles is justified.

    Speaking on Accra-based Peace FM on Friday, February 2, 2024, Nana B conveyed that emission levies are typically imposed on developed countries that have embraced electric cars to combat climate change. In his view, Ghana’s current state of vehicle technology adoption does not warrant the application of such a levy.

    Nana B asserted that his stance aligns with the position of the New Patriotic Party, and he urges the Finance Minister to promptly withdraw the emission levy.

    The Emission levy, which came into effect on February 1, 2024, is part of the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112). The government justifies its implementation as a measure to address greenhouse gas emissions, promote the use of eco-friendly technology and green energy, and enhance overall environmental management while controlling air and water pollution.

    Under section 4(4) of Act 1112, individuals required to issue a road use certificate, such as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and other testing centers, are mandated to demand evidence of payment of the levy before issuing a Road Use Certificate.

    Vehicle owners are advised to register and pay the levy exclusively on the Ghana.gov platform. The levy amounts are categorized as follows:

    1. Motorcycles and tricycles – GH¢75 per annum
    2. Motor vehicles, buses, and coaches up to 3000 cc – GH¢150 per annum
    3. Motor Vehicles, buses, and coaches above 3000 cc – GH¢300 per annum
    4. Cargo trucks and articulated trucks – GH¢300 per annum
  • Plane crash causes deadly park fire in Florida

    Plane crash causes deadly park fire in Florida

    A little plane crashed into a trailer park in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday night. This caused a fire to start and it spread to the mobile homes. Firefighters say the fire was very big.

    Firefighters got a call about a plane crash at 7:08 PM and went to the scene right away.

    Clearwater’s Fire Chief, Scott Ehlers, said they got a call at the same time the airport said a plane was in trouble.

    The air traffic control heard the pilot say “mayday” before the plane went missing.

    A video of the accident at Bayside Waters mobile home park shows broken pieces all over the road.

    Chief Ehlers told the news that four trailers were very damaged, and one was hit by the plane.

    He said the fires were put out fast.

    Three houses were checked for people but no one was found. The people living in the houses were inside when the plane crashed but they were able to get out safely.

    Investigators are still trying to get to the trailer that was hit by the plane.

    The pilot is thought to have died, he said.

    The FAA said the plane that crashed was a single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza V35. The plane had an engine failure before the crash.

    The statement said we don’t know how many people were on the boat.

    The FAA and NTSB will look into the crash and find out what happened.

  • Traditional Nigerian monarch shot dead, wife abducted

    Traditional Nigerian monarch shot dead, wife abducted

    Armed men killed a leader and took his wife and another person in southwestern Nigeria.

    The attackers broke into the palace of Segun Aremu, who is a retired army general and monarch with the official title of the Olukoro of Koro, on Thursday night.

    It’s not known who the shooters are or if they want money in exchange for someone’s release.

    This recent murder and kidnapping happened just a few days after people asked for urgent action to address the problem.

    Fifty groups from the community want President Bola Tinubu to announce that more than 1,800 people have been kidnapped since he became president last May.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is very upset about the killing of the Olukoro of Koro in Kwara state. He promises to catch the people who did this terrible thing.

    Police are looking for a man.

    A few days ago, some people took five students and four teachers from a school in Ekiti state. They want 100 million naira (about $110,000) to let them go.

    A high-ranking government official was taken by force on Wednesday night in Bwari, a neighborhood near the capital city, Abuja. This happened close to where six sisters and their father were also kidnapped for money last month.

    One girl was killed because the ransom wasn’t paid on time.

    In another place, two girls were recently taken away in the Chikakorie area of Kubwa, another part of Abuja. The people who took them away want $25,000 to let them go.

    In Nigeria, more and more people are being kidnapped and held for money. This includes people on the road, students, and people living in both rural and city areas.

  • Malaysia reduces former Prime Minister Najib Razak’s prison sentence

    Malaysia reduces former Prime Minister Najib Razak’s prison sentence

    The ex-leader of Malaysia, Najib Razak, was given a 6-year jail sentence for being corrupt instead of his original 12-year sentence by the country’s pardons board.

    Najib was put in prison in 2022 for stealing money from Malaysia’s government fund called 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

    The board lowered the fine for him to 50 million ringgit (8. 3 million pounds; 10. 5 million dollars) from the original 210 million ringgit.

    Najib has to pay all of it to be let go in August 2028.

    If he doesn’t pay, he will have to stay in prison for another year until 2029.

    He was found guilty in 2020 after trying for two years to prove he was not guilty in court.

    The arrest of a very important leader in Asian politics at that time caused big problems in South East Asia. It was seen as a rare case of being responsible in a place where those in charge often don’t have to explain their actions.

    But on Tuesday, it was reported that Malaysia’s pardons board had met on the last day of the King’s time in office to discuss Najib’s request to be released. Malaysia has a monarchy where the king changes every now and then. King Abdullah Ahmad Shah gave his role to Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar on Wednesday.

    James Chin, a professor at the University of Tasmania, said that the shorter sentence shows that leaders in South East Asia do whatever they want without punishment.

    “If you become successful in your career, nothing bad can happen to you,” Prof Chin told the BBC.

    He said that the information about the pardons board’s decision seems like they wanted to control how the public might feel about it.

    Najib’s political party, UMNO, used to be in charge of Malaysia. Now they are trying to get a pardon from the king after trying other ways to appeal their case.

    Two weeks ago, Najib was taken from prison by guards to go to a court in Kuala Lumpur to hear his new legal challenge. He and his wife Rosmah Mansor still have a lot of other charges against them.

    Even though Najib’s reputation was hurt a lot by the 1MDB scandal and his involvement in it, he is still liked by regular UMNO supporters. This is because he gave a lot of help to ethnic Malay communities while he was in charge. He built more support for himself with a clever advertising campaign, even after he was accused, using the slogan Bossku (Your Boss).

    No UMNO leaders who took over for him are as well-liked, so they had to make it look like they were trying to remove him. Najib’s party is not as strong as it used to be, but it is still one of the biggest parties in Malaysia. It is also part of the government group led by his old enemy Anwar Ibrahim. It’s not surprising to see its wishes being met.

    The 1MDB scheme is a big scam that involved stealing money from public projects in Malaysia and putting it into private pockets, including Najib’s.

    Jho Low, a runaway money man, is thought to have planned the scam and is wanted by Malaysian officials. Last year, the country’s anti-corruption organization said they think he is in Macau.

    The case is about a fund called 1 Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) that was started in 2009 while Najib was the prime minister.

    Sovereign wealth funds are like piggy banks that belong to the government and are used to help the country grow economically. Constructed using money earned by the state, such as profits from selling oil and other products, they have a lot of cash to invest and a lot of power in other countries.

    In 2015, people were worried about what 1MBD was doing when it didn’t pay the money it owed to banks and people who had bought its bonds.

    Malaysian and US governments say that $4. 5 billion was taken from the fund unfairly and put into people’s own pockets.

    The stolen money was used to buy fancy houses, a private airplane, paintings by Van Gogh and Monet, and even to fund a big movie called The Wolf of Wall Street. Leonardo DiCaprio starred in the movie.

    Last week, the US bank Goldman Sachs agreed to pay $3. 9 billion to the Malaysian government for its involvement in a large corruption scheme.

    The agreement settles accusations in Malaysia that the bank deceived investors while assisting in raising $6. 5 billion for 1MDB.

  • Ablakwa hosts National Chief Imam, Metropolitan Archbishop

    Ablakwa hosts National Chief Imam, Metropolitan Archbishop

    Over the weekend, the North Tongu Constituency, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was graced by the presence of two prominent and revered religious leaders, fostering unity and prayers for different occasions.

    The National Chief Imam, Dr. Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, offered final prayers for the late and highly respected Aveyime Chief Imam on Saturday. 

    The ceremony was a poignant moment as the community bid farewell to their dedicated spiritual leader, seeking solace in the prayers and blessings of the National Chief Imam. May Allah grant the departed imam Jannatul Firdaus.

    Continuing the weekend of spiritual engagements, on Sunday, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Archbishop John Bonaventure Kwofie, held a special Catholic Mass in Mepe. The purpose of the mass was to pray for the victims affected by the spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong dams, a calamity that has disrupted lives in the region.

    Archbishop Kwofie, known for his compassion and outreach, extended his support by visiting the displaced individuals in their camps. Additionally, he inspected the MP’s Safe Alternative Housing Project, which is set to be commissioned shortly, offering a glimpse of hope for those affected by the disaster.

    Disclosing this in a social media post, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed his gratitude to the two eminent religious leaders for their kind words of encouragement and the special prayers offered. The leaders’ presence and support contribute to the constituency’s resilience during this challenging time.

    Ablakwa emphasized the importance of sustaining Ghana’s beautiful and exemplary inter-religious harmony, showcasing the unity that can emerge during moments of adversity. He conveyed his gratitude to all religious organizations for their compassionate support in the face of devastation, reinforcing the belief that with God, all things are possible.

    As the North Tongu Constituency navigates the aftermath of the VRA dam spillage, the spiritual interventions from both Muslim and Christian leaders serve as a symbol of solidarity and strength, uniting the community in the face of challenges. The ongoing support from religious organizations reflects the power of collective compassion and the ability to find hope in times of distress.

  • GRA initiates auction for COCOBOD’s chemicals, fertilizers, and more

    GRA initiates auction for COCOBOD’s chemicals, fertilizers, and more

    Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is grappling with a severe financial crisis, leading to the auction of its essential agro products crucial for the upcoming cocoa season. This predicament arises from COCOBOD’s failure to settle a substantial GH¢3.9 billion duty owed to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

    The auctioned goods, including agrochemicals, fertilizers, and implements, are integral for disease control, pest management, and overall yield enhancement in cocoa farming. The supply contracts, initially Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) to Tema, saw COCOBOD unable to meet payment obligations to suppliers, resulting in the abandonment of goods and their subsequent auction by Customs.

    The exorbitant duty demands by GRA have made the products unaffordable for both suppliers and COCOBOD, posing significant threats to agronomic practices and potentially resulting in low cocoa yields, with broader implications for Ghana’s economy.

    The financial plight of COCOBOD stems from the withdrawal of tax exemptions by the government in July 2023, necessitating the payment of import duty on all the board’s imports into the country. This move strained COCOBOD’s finances, leading to the abandonment of 73 containers of agro products at the port of Tema.

    Efforts by COCOBOD’s management to reverse the tax exemption withdrawal have reportedly been acknowledged by the Ghanaian Parliament. However, the implementation timeline remains uncertain, leaving the fate of the auctioned goods in limbo.

    To address financial challenges, COCOBOD recently extended an invitation to holders of its short-term debt securities to exchange them for longer-term debt securities. This restructuring effort reflects the broader financial struggles faced by the institution.

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is reportedly supporting economic reform programs by the Akufo-Addo government to address COCOBOD’s losses. The successful implementation of these programs is crucial for the disbursement of the $3 billion IMF bailout, with the first installment of about $600 million already received.

    Amid the financial turmoil, COCOBOD, through Calbank, announced the launch of a debt securities exchange program. This program invites holders of short-term debt securities (Cocoa Bills) to exchange them for longer-term debt securities (Bonds). COCOBOD’s financial challenges extend beyond the duty dispute, with reports indicating over-staffing and difficulties in paying for services rendered.

    As stakeholders closely monitor these developments, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta recently announced a program to restructure COCOBOD’s debt. The unfolding situation underscores the delicate balance required to ensure the stability of Ghana’s crucial cocoa sector, urging stakeholders to carefully review the Exchange Program documents for further details and seek professional advice before making investment decisions.

  • Officials from the West object to Israel’s Gaza policy

    Officials from the West object to Israel’s Gaza policy

    Over 800 officials in the US and Europe have signed a statement saying that their governments’ actions in the Israel-Gaza war might break international law.

    The “transatlantic statement” says that their governments could be involved in a bad situation, but their advice has not been taken seriously.

    This shows that some important countries that are friends with Israel are not happy with its government.

    One person who signed the statement is a US government official who has worked in national security for over 25 years. They told the BBC that their concerns are still being ignored.

    “The official said that the people who knew the area well were not heard. ”

    The big difference here is that we are not just failing to stop something, we are actually helping it happen. “That is very different from any other situation I can remember,” said the official, who didn’t want to share their name.

    Civil servants from the US, the EU, and 11 European countries, including the UK, France, and Germany, have signed the statement.

    Israel has been using its military in Gaza without limits. This has led to many civilians dying. They have also stopped aid from getting in, which has put many civilians in danger of not having enough food and getting sick.

    “Our governments’ actions may be breaking international laws and committing serious crimes like war and genocide,” the statement said.

    The names of the people who supported the statement have not been shared with the public. The BBC hasn’t seen a list of names, but they believe that almost half of them are government officials who have been working for at least ten years.

    A former US ambassador told the media that it was unusual for civil servants in different governments to work together in this way.

    Robert Ford, a former American ambassador to Algeria and Syria, said that he has never seen anything like it in the last 40 years when it comes to foreign policy.

    He compared it to worries in the US government in 2003 about wrong information before invading Iraq. But this time, many officials with concerns didn’t want to stay quiet.

    “Some people knew that intelligence was being selectively used and that there was no plan for what would happen next, but they didn’t speak up. ” “He said it was a big problem,”

    He said the problems with the Gaza war are very serious and have serious consequences, which is why they feel the need to make it public.

    The leaders are saying that their government’s help for Israel could cause more Palestinians to die and put the lives of hostages and Israel’s safety at risk. They believe that the support should have some conditions and be held accountable. This could also cause problems in the region.

    “Israel’s military actions are not using the important anti-terrorism knowledge they have learned since 9/11. The operation is not helping Israel to defeat Hamas and is actually making groups like Hamas and Hezbollah more popular. ”

    The officials say they have talked about their worries at work, but their opinions were ignored because of politics and beliefs.

    The US government, the European Union, and the UK government have been asked to share their thoughts on the matter.

    The statement says that Israel’s attack on Gaza has caused a lot of damage, but there is no plan to get rid of Hamas or to find a long-term solution for Israel’s safety. The US and European governments are being asked to stop telling people that there is a good reason for the Israeli operation.

    Israeli leaders always say no to that kind of criticism. The Israeli embassy in London said it had to follow international law because of the new statement.

    Israel is still fighting against a terrorist group that is trying to kill a whole race of people. This group is doing very bad things in war and against innocent people.

    Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says we need to use strong military force on Hamas to get more hostages released. The army also destroyed important places used by Hamas, like command centers, weapons areas, and places where they keep hostages.

    On Saturday, the Israeli army said they killed more than 2,000 terrorists in Khan Yunis, both above and below the ground.

    Israel keeps saying it doesn’t try to hurt regular people on purpose. They say that Hamas is using civilian places to hide.

    Since the war began, more than 26,750 Palestinians have been killed and at least 65,000 injured, according to health officials in the Gaza Strip. Gaza has been ruled by Hamas and blocked off by Israel and Egypt since 2007.

    Israeli officials say that 9,000 of the people who were killed were members of Hamas, but they have not shown proof for this claim. Israeli officials say that more than 1,200 people were killed in Israel during the Hamas attacks on October 7th, and another 100 died from their injuries. Over 250 people were captured and taken to Gaza.

    The US government has said many times that too many Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, and Israel has the right to make sure that something like October 7th never happens again.

    It has started being more strict about some things the Israeli government is doing, like speaking out more about not stopping settlers from being violent in the West Bank. On Thursday, President Biden said the first US penalties ever against settlers who hurt Palestinians.

    The Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, has tried to talk to the people in the State Department about their concerns about US policy. He told them in November that he is listening to what they have to say and it’s influencing the decisions they make and the things they say.

    During the Vietnam War, the department created a way for diplomats to share their disagreements with US positions without being punished. It was called a “dissent channel. ”

    In the most recent statement, the most people who signed are working in EU offices, the Netherlands and the US. Many of the people who signed are believed to work for the State Department, with others working at the White House, Homeland Security, Justice, and other government departments.

    The media has said that some UK Foreign Office workers are disagreeing about how the civilian deaths in Gaza are being shown.

    It is known that in the past, the staff counsellors in the Foreign Office collected internal worries. But now, people are unhappy because there is no official way to share their concerns about the Israel-Hamas war.

  • This is how much vehicles, motorcycles, etc. are paying under Emission levy

    This is how much vehicles, motorcycles, etc. are paying under Emission levy

    Ghana’s recently introduced Emission Levy, which came into effect on February 1, 2024, has stirred a wave of mixed reactions as it enters its early stages of implementation. 

    The controversial tax, aimed at curbing carbon emissions, has received both support as a positive environmental step and criticism for its perceived burden on the ordinary Ghanaian.

    Under the new levy, vehicles, motorcycles, and other specified modes of transportation are subject to varying charges based on their emission levels. 

    While some Ghanaians applaud the initiative as a positive move towards environmental conservation, a significant portion of the population deems the tax needless and financially burdensome.

    The levy, which is part of the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), imposes charges on carbon dioxide and equivalent emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles. 

    Per the Act, users of motorcycle and tricycles are required to pay GH¢75 per annum for the levy.

    Motor vehicles, buses, and coaches which are up to 3000 cc will pay GH¢150 per annum, while motor vehicles, buses, and coaches above 3000 cc, cargo trucks, and articulated trucks will pay GH¢300 per annum.

    See the list below as published by the GRA

    • Motorcycles & tricycles – GHS75 per annum

    • Motor vehicles, buses and coaches up to 3000 cc – GHS150 per annum

    • (i) Motor vehicles, buses and coaches above 3000 cc – GHS300 per annum

    (ii) Cargo trucks and articulated trucks – GHS300 per annum

  • China’s billionaire banker quits all positions after getting missing

    China’s billionaire banker quits all positions after getting missing

    Chinese billionaire banker Bao Fan, who has been gone for almost a year, has quit all his jobs at his company, China Renaissance Holdings.

    “He resigned because of his health and to spend more time with his family,” the bank said in a statement.

    Last year in February, Mr. Bao disappeared and this surprised China’s business and investing community.

    A few days after, China Renaissance announced that they were working with the authorities who were doing an investigation.

    In the new document, the company announced that co-founder Xie Yi Jing will take over Mr. Bao’s top positions.

    Mr Bao is not arguing with the Board and there is nothing else about his resignation that the shareholders need to know.

    However, it didn’t say where Mr Bao Fan is.

    He was a very important banker in China, and he worked with big internet companies like Tencent, Alibaba, and Baidu.

    In February, China Renaissance said: “The board found out that Mr. Bao is helping with an investigation by authorities in China. ”

    The company will help the Chinese authorities if they ask for it.

    This was the first time China Renaissance said why its founder disappeared.

    He went missing while the Chinese government was taking strong action against big technology companies.

    In the end of 2020, Jack Ma, who started Alibaba, was not seen in public for three months. He had said some negative things about market regulators before this happened. He was supposed to make his digital payments firm Ant Financial go public, which would have probably made him the richest man in China.

  • Couple who threw their two infants to deaths executed in China

    Couple who threw their two infants to deaths executed in China

    China killed a man and a woman who threw two children out of a window and caused their deaths.

    Zhang Bo and Ye Chengchen were found guilty of killing a two-year-old girl and one-year-old boy in 2020. Zhang Bo is the father of the children.

    Zhang started cheating on his wife with Ye. After that, he divorced his wife and planned to kill his children.

    China’s highest court said the couples were very mean and used cruel methods.

    The couple was killed in the city of Chongqing on Wednesday. It’s not known how the person was put to death, but in China, most death sentences are carried out by lethal injection or a firing squad.

    Zhang started a relationship with Ye without telling her that he was married or had kids. Despite finding out the truth, Ye still chose to be with him, according to the court.

    After Zhang ended his marriage with his wife in February 2020, Ye still thought of their two children as something that made it difficult for her to marry Zhang and as a problem for their future life together.

    Ye kept telling Zhang that they would kill someone, and they planned to make it look like an accident. The court found out about this. On November 2, 2020, Zhang dropped his children from the 15th floor of his apartment.

    The news that they were killed spread quickly on a popular Chinese social media site called Weibo, getting hundreds of millions of people to look at it.

    “One Weibo comment, which got more than 30 thousand likes, said that they deserve it for their crime. ”

    “I hope the kids have a happy and peaceful next life,” another person writes.

    Chen Meilin, the mother of the two kids, said on Thursday evening that “a bad dream that bothered our family for over three years is finally gone”.

    More news came on the same day about Wu Xieyu, a student from a top university who was executed for killing his mother with a dumbbell in 2015.

  • Nigerian man arrested in Ghana; charged with wire fraud, identity theft, in $7.5m fraud scheme

    Nigerian man arrested in Ghana; charged with wire fraud, identity theft, in $7.5m fraud scheme

    Nigerian national Olusegun Samson Adejorin has been arrested in Ghana and charged with wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and unauthorized access to a protected computer. 

    The charges are linked to an elaborate $7.5 million scheme, with the arrest taking place on Friday, December 29, 2023.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland has issued an eight-count federal grand jury indictment against Adejorin. The charges are related to his alleged involvement in defrauding two charitable organizations through impersonation and unauthorized access to employee email accounts.

    Between June and August 2020, Adejorin is accused of orchestrating a scheme to defraud a charitable organization in North Bethesda, Maryland, and another in New York. The indictment outlines his actions, including gaining access to employee email accounts, posing as employees, and inducing fraudulent financial transactions.

    One facet of the scheme involved Adejorin posing as an employee of the New York-based organization, requesting withdrawals of the organization’s funds. He is also alleged to have fraudulently obtained employee credentials, using them to send emails, including requests for the withdrawal of investment funds.

    The indictment further accuses Adejorin of purchasing a credential-harvesting tool designed to steal email login credentials. He allegedly registered spoofed domain names and concealed fraudulent emails from legitimate employees by moving them to inconspicuous locations within their mailboxes.

    If convicted, Adejorin could face severe penalties, including a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for each of the five wire fraud counts. Unauthorized access to a protected computer carries a potential sentence of up to five years, while aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory two-year sentence, consecutive to any other imposed sentence, for each of the two counts.

    The arrest and charges highlight the growing complexity of cybercrime and the global efforts to apprehend individuals involved in such fraudulent activities. Adejorin’s case underscores the need for heightened cybersecurity measures and international cooperation to combat financial crimes with transnational dimensions.

  • Three people dead and almost 300 injured in gas explosion in capital of Kenya

    Three people dead and almost 300 injured in gas explosion in capital of Kenya

    A big explosion of gas in Nairobi, Kenya, has killed at least three people and hurt nearly 300.

    A truck with gas exploded in Embakasi district at around 11:30 pm, causing a big fire, said a government spokesperson.

    Homes, stores, and cars were destroyed, and there was a big fire near apartment buildings.

    Before, the government said that the explosion happened at a gas factory. The reason is still being figured out.

    Embakasi’s top police officer, Wesley Kimeto, said that a child was one of the people who died in the explosion. He also mentioned that the number of people who died could increase.

    The Kenya Red Cross helped 271 people get to the hospital and treated 27 more at the scene.

    The explosion sent a fireball in all directions, and according to the government spokesman Isaac Mwaura, a gas cylinder hit a warehouse full of clothes and fabric, causing it to catch fire and burn down.

    “The fire hurt more cars and stores, including a lot of small and medium-sized businesses,” he said in a statement.

    “Unfortunately, the homes in the area also caught on fire while many people were still inside, because it was late at night. ”

    People told the news that they felt shaking right after the explosion.

    The Standard newspaper says that many of the injured have breathing problems, and at least 25 of them are children.

    One person named Boniface Sifuna said to the news agency Reuters, “I got burned by a gas canister that exploded when I was trying to get away. ”

    “It blew up in front of me and the force knocked me down and the fire surrounded me. ” I feel fortunate that I was able to escape because I was strong enough.

    James Ngoge, who lives nearby, said he heard a big explosion from his house when the blast happened.

    “It seemed like it might fall down. ” At first, we didn’t know what was happening, it felt like an earthquake.

    “My business in the street was all wrecked. ”

    A reporter from the Nation newspaper who lives in the area said that everyone had left their homes after the explosion.

    The Kenya Red Cross posted on social media that people have been working very hard to put out the fire.

    Mr Mwaura, who speaks for the government, said that the explosion area is safe now and a place to command the rescue work has been set up.

    The Kenyans are told to stay away from the area that is blocked off so that the rescue mission can happen without problems.

  • NPP has become a very violent party – Sam George asserts 

    NPP has become a very violent party – Sam George asserts 

    Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, has voiced apprehensions regarding the increasing trend of violence within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and criticized President Akufo-Addo’s apparent silence in response to these incidents. 

    Speaking on the Good Morning Ghana Show on Metro TV on February 2, Sam George specifically pointed out the president’s failure to address significant acts of violence, including the killing of eight Ghanaians during the 2020 elections and the lack of compensation for victims of the Ayawaso West Wougon violence after five years.

    In a stern warning, Sam George remarked, “The pain we feel from Akufo-Addo’s violence, his children, and their grandchildren will feel it.” 

    He highlighted the absence of acknowledgment or condolences from the president concerning the eight Ghanaians who lost their lives during the 2020 elections, allegedly at the hands of soldiers.

    Expressing his lack of surprise at the recent chaos during the NPP parliamentary primaries, Sam George pointed to the party’s history of violence. He recalled the Ayawaso West Wougon violence during the 2019 by-election and underscored the urgent need for accountability.

    “I will maintain the fact that I am surprised with what we have seen in Yendi; it is the hallmark of the NPP. They have become a very violent party. Yesterday marked the 5th anniversary of the Ayawaso West Wougon violence. I looked at my yesterday, and I almost wept because this beautiful world would not have lived if I had died 5 years ago,” remarked Sam George during the interview on Thursday.

  • Putin continues to insist US missiles brought down Russian jet

    Putin continues to insist US missiles brought down Russian jet

    Vladimir Putin seems to be strongly sticking to his claims that Western weapons caused the Russian IL-76 military plane to crash.

    The leader of Russia said that Ukraine used a US missile system to shoot down a plane near Belgorod.

    The expert study has proven that already. We want people from different countries to investigate this. He said no global groups want to do this.

    Putin said Ukraine shot two missiles at the plane, causing it to explode in the sky.

    Video shown on Russian TV shows people investigating the disaster that happened last week.

    A few burnt pieces with English writing on them, believed to be from the US missile, were shown on the screen.

    However, Putin went even further and said that Ukraine used a weapon from the US to attack the plane.

    The Kremlin said that the crash killed all 74 people on the plane, including 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war who were going to be exchanged.

    The Russian Defence Ministry said that Ukraine is to blame for the plane being shot down.

    Ukraine hasn’t said if it shot down the plane or not. It wants proof of who was on the plane.

    However, a Ukrainian military intelligence officer stated on Tuesday that Russia has not been willing to return the bodies.

    Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson, said on the Suspilne broadcaster that Russia is saying our prisoners were there, but we can only trust what they say for now.

    ‘They are not ready to move the bodies from the other place right now. ’

  • Freda Prempeh accepts her fate in NPP primaries; promises to support Dr Bawumia ‘Break the Eight’

    Freda Prempeh accepts her fate in NPP primaries; promises to support Dr Bawumia ‘Break the Eight’

    Tano North Member of Parliament (MP) and Minister of Sanitation and Water, Freda Prempeh, has acknowledged her defeat in the recent parliamentary primary, expressing her unwavering commitment to continue serving the constituents.

    Prempeh, who was seeking re-election for a fourth term, faced a setback in her political journey when she lost to Dr. Gideon Boako, the spokesperson to Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia. The primary, held on January 27, saw Dr Boako securing 444 votes, while the incumbent MP gathered 221 votes.

    In a statement following the outcome, Prempeh demonstrated resilience and a positive outlook, emphasizing the inherent nature of elections where one either emerges victorious or faces defeat.

    “When you go into an election, you either win or lose; you cannot break even. You psych yourself to win but if it doesn’t happen that way, you respect the verdict of the people,” she shared with journalists during a ceremony.

    The defeated MP highlighted the importance of trusting the judgment of the delegates, expressing her belief in the democratic process. She affirmed her commitment to continuing her service to the people of Tano North despite the setback.

    “They say fear delegates, but I always say trust delegates because I trust their judgment. I will continue to serve the good people of Tano North,” she affirmed.

    Despite the disappointment of losing the primary, Prempeh remains focused on the larger goal of supporting the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Vice President Bawumia’s vision to “break the eight,” referring to the tradition of alternating political power in Ghana.

    “They have spoken, and I accept it in good faith. I bear no grudges. I remain resolute and committed to supporting Bawumia to break the eight,” she added, signaling her dedication to the party’s objectives.

    Freda Prempeh’s dignified acceptance of defeat and commitment to ongoing service reflects the democratic spirit and resilience within the political landscape as Ghana approaches the upcoming general elections.

  • Bilharzia outbreak hits Volta Basin after dam spillage 

    Bilharzia outbreak hits Volta Basin after dam spillage 

    Lakeside communities within the Volta Basin are grappling with a surge in cases of Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS), following the Akosombo Dam spillage.

    The water-borne tropical disease, also known as bilharzia, has gained prominence as a significant contributor to infertility and maternal morbidity, despite being classified among neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

    Mr. Ben Sackey, Director of the Environmental and Sustainable Development Department of the Volta River Authority (VRA), highlighted the daunting challenge posed by schistosomiasis, attributing its prevalence to the construction of the dam. The disease is now feared to be dominant in over 400 communities across five regions sharing the Volta Basin.

    Speaking at a symposium in Ho to commemorate the 2024 World NTDs Awareness Day, Mr Sackey emphasized the impact of the spillage, explaining that the floodwaters carried along aquatic weeds housing snails that transmit schisto worms. He stressed that these weeds could now be found in communities where they were not previously present.

    To combat the escalating crisis, Mr. Sackey outlined ongoing efforts, including a baseline study on infection spread conducted by the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in collaboration with the VRA. The provision of sanitary facilities and drinking water for affected communities is being sustained, alongside partnerships with health authorities for mass drug administration in lakeside communities.

    Projects such as the dredging of the lower Volta are on the horizon, and a recent collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the KNUST aims to develop economic value for aquatic weeds.

    Professor Morhe, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at UHAS, emphasized the gravity of schistosomiasis, calling it “the most neglected gynaecological condition in sub-Saharan Africa.” He cited an increased risk among women and girls in underdeveloped countries, affecting over 50% of females in Africa south of the Sahara.

    Complications associated with the disease include infertility, ectopic pregnancies, preterm births, underdeveloped babies, and an increased risk of HIV. Prof. Morhe revealed that a study in eleven Volta Basin communities showed 36.21% of the surveyed women had the disease, primarily affecting adult teens and young adults.

    Despite the alarming statistics, the exact number of affected persons in the Volta Basin remains unknown. Prof. Morhe urged stakeholders to focus on disease prevention efforts, including an end to open defecation and urination, which contribute to the infestation of water bodies with parasites.

    Dr. Alfred Kwesi Manyeh, a senior research fellow at UHAS leading the baseline study, highlighted issues such as inadequate water supply, lack of social mobilization, and concerns about adverse drug reactions.

    The symposium, themed “Addressing the Burden of Schistosomiasis and the Related Conditions in Ghana Towards Achievement of the 2023 Road Map,” brought together stakeholders, health experts, and heads of the Volta Regional Health Directorate to address the pressing health crisis.

    A route march through the streets of Ho and Hohoe preceded the symposium, aiming to raise community awareness about neglected tropical diseases, with a particular emphasis on the dreaded Schistosomiasis.

  • Major Mahama: Wife of former Assemblyman pleads for reduced sentence for husband

    Major Mahama: Wife of former Assemblyman pleads for reduced sentence for husband

    Wife of William Baah, the former Assemblyman for Denkyira-Obuasi currently serving a life sentence for the murder of Major Maxwell Mahama, has revealed the distressing impact of her husband’s incarceration on their family, stating that their three children have dropped out of school.

    Yaa Ampofowaa, expressing the hardship her family faces, highlighted that her husband, who was the primary breadwinner, played a crucial role in supporting their children’s education. Since his arrest in connection with the tragic incident on May 29, 2017, life has taken a harsh turn for the family.

    Now a single mother struggling to make ends meet through hand-to-mouth business, Ampofowaa lamented that the meager income she generates is insufficient to cover the costs of enrolling their children in school. 

    The financial strain is compounded by the emotional toll on the family, with the children consistently asking about their father’s whereabouts.

    Despite the challenging circumstances, Ampofowaa acknowledged the support of her husband’s family, which has prevented the situation from becoming unbearable for the children. 

    However, she stressed the urgent need for a reduced sentence for her husband, believing it would bring much-needed relief to the family.

    William Baah is currently one of 11 individuals serving life sentences for the murder of Major Maxwell Mahama. 

    The heinous incident shocked the nation, and the legal repercussions have left families on both sides grappling with the consequences. 

    As Yaa Ampofowaa appeals for clemency, the case underscores the far-reaching effects of crime on innocent family members, especially children who find themselves caught in the aftermath of such tragic events.

  • Group of children stabs teacher outside school gate in UK

    Group of children stabs teacher outside school gate in UK

    A teacher in east London almost died when he was stabbed by a group of kids outside the school.

    The teacher who wasn’t named, got stabbed in the back by students at Forest Gate School. He then went to a pharmacy for help. It happened on Tuesday afternoon.

    The teacher, who is in his 40s, told the staff that he had only been working at the school for about two weeks when they rushed over to help him.

    He said that some of the people who attacked him were wearing school uniforms and he knew some of them, but not all.

    Gulzarin Iqbal, who is 27 years old and works as a physician’s assistant at the nearby Lord Lister Health Centre, said he heard people fighting outside and then heard someone scream.

    “He said it sounded like a man and some younger people. ”

    “Their voices were loud, but I thought it could just be a regular fight – it’s east London after all. ”

    “I heard a scream, so I quickly went outside to find out what was going on. ”

    At that time, the group had left, but I could still see people in the pharmacy. I ran to the other side of the road and saw a man laying on the ground with his face down.

    ‘There was a large amount of blood. ‘ or ‘There was a massive bleeding. ‘

    A lady who works at Sharman’s Pharmacy and wants to stay anonymous, said: “He came in and asked for help. He said, ‘I’m a teacher at the school and I’ve been stabbed. ‘”

    ‘There was a lot of blood on the floor. He got a knife in his back.

    We called the police and the ambulance right away, and a man from the health center across the street came to assist.

    ‘The helpers came very quickly and they took him somewhere else. ’

    Dr Parvesh Patel, a pharmacist at Mansons Pharmacy, said: “I think he thought a pharmacy was the safest place to be. ”

    “He said someone stabbed him with a big knife, but I didn’t see it. ”

    I quickly put pressure on the cut on his back.

    “People can die from bleeding after a stabbing, so it’s always a concern. ” You never know what will happen.

    The pharmacy workers called for help, and when the police arrived, I asked them to put pressure on my wound so I could go to the health center for supplies.

    My arms had a lot of blood on them.

    ‘I brought a defibrillator and a heart monitor to keep an eye on his heart just in case. ‘

    ‘The ambulance came five minutes after that. ’

    The police said the man’s injuries are not bad enough to threaten his life.

  • Keta MCE advocates for public education on Emissions Levy Act

    Keta MCE advocates for public education on Emissions Levy Act

    Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Keta, Emmanuel Gemegah, has defended the necessity of the newly introduced emissions levy on vehicles, emphasizing its role in national development. 

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) announced the implementation of the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), commencing on February 01, 2024, sparking debates and concerns among various sections of the Ghanaian populace.

    In an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency on Thursday, Gemegah justified the collection of the levy, noting that it was passed in Parliament with the support of lawmakers from both political parties. 

    “I am calling on Mr. Kwame Gakpey, Mr Richard Sefe and Madam Dzifa Gomashie to come down to educate our people on this new levy on how it came about, let us not make it look as if it was an imposition by the President or the Finance Minister on Ghanaians,” Mr Gemegah said.

    He highlighted the international context, referring to the Paris Agreement adopted on December 12, 2015, which emphasizes the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of eco-friendly technology and green energy.

    The Keta MCE specifically called on Parliamentarians such as Mr. Kwame Gakpey, Mr. Richard Sefe, and Madam Dzifa Gomashie to engage in public education about the emissions levy. He emphasized the need to clarify that it was not an imposition by the President or the Finance Minister but a collective decision supported by parliamentary approval.

    According to the provisions of the act, motorcycles and tricycles will pay GHC75 per annum, motor vehicles, buses, and coaches up to 3000 cubic centimeters will be charged GHC150 per annum, while those above 3000 cubic centimeters will pay GHC300 per annum. Cargo trucks and articulated trucks are also required to pay GHC300 annually.

    Gemegah appealed to citizens to embrace the payment of the levy, emphasizing the role of taxes in national development. He stressed that taxes contribute to the government’s ability to invest in essential services such as education, road construction, and water provision.

    “Taxes develop a nation; we cannot expect the government to build our schools, construct roads, and provide us water if we do not pay taxes and levies. So, as citizens, let us embrace the culture of paying taxes to help change our communities,” urged Mr. Gemegah.

  • Terrifying accounts of defectors’ escape from North Korea under Kim Jong-un

    Terrifying accounts of defectors’ escape from North Korea under Kim Jong-un

    The documentary tells the stories of people who escaped from North Korea and how hard it was for them to find safety.

    Beyond Utopia: Escape from North Korea tells the stories of people who have gone through difficult experiences like walking through thick forests and being in prison camps.

    Some people had to leave their family behind and don’t know if they are still alive or if they will see them again.

    One of the people from North Korea in the movie is Soyeon Lee. She got away from North Korea with the help of Pastor Kim Seongeun, who is also in the movie.

    Soyeon, who was in the North Korean army, was caught when she tried to escape for the first time and was sent to a prison camp.

    Two years later, she escaped, but she couldn’t bring her 17-year-old son Han Jeong-Cheong with her.

    She and Pastor Kim work together to try to help the teenager leave. In a phone call on the film, she tells him that the journey will be very hard.

    He says: “It’s a journey that brings me to you, so I can handle anything for you, mom. ”

    But Pastor Kim says that it’s not always safe to trust people who say they can help you cross the border. They might actually turn you in to the police instead of helping you. So be careful and think about the risks before you try to cross the border.

    The Chinese government, which is North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un‘s best friend, is willing to pay the people who help catch the defectors six months’ worth of salary.

    For a long time, Pastor Kim’s church in Seoul, South Korea has helped people escape from the country.

    Traveling from North Korea to South Korea is not easy, even though South Korea is the safest place for people escaping from the North Korean regime.

    People have to go to the north because it’s really hard to get out of the south.

    From there, they need to leave China without making the police suspicious and go to Thailand, which can help them move to South Korea.

    When they arrive, the Constitution of the country says that North Koreans are also citizens of South Korea. This means they can start getting used to their new home soon.

    Director Madeleine Gavin made a film that got nominated for a big award. The film is about the Roh family, who are a family of five.

    Their journey when they left was recorded on camera – including the scary part where they walked through the jungle and heard military police dogs barking behind them.

    At a place where they are staying to keep safe on their trip, Pastor Kim leads them in a prayer. He asks Jesus Christ to help them hold on to hope until they reach their destination.

  • We are being punished – Chamber of Commerce CEO ‘wails’ over escalating taxes

    We are being punished – Chamber of Commerce CEO ‘wails’ over escalating taxes

    Chief Executive of the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mark Badu-Aboagye, has raised alarm over the growing impact of both direct and indirect taxes on businesses in the country. 

    In an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express, Badu-Aboagye expressed doubts about the sustainability of business profitability amid rising costs and taxes, stating that taxes have evolved into a hindrance rather than a support for business growth.

    Badu-Aboagye went on to assert that the continuous introduction of new taxes is burdening businesses and questioned their efficiency and impact. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of these tax measures on businesses, highlighting the adverse consequences of their implementation.

    During the interview, the CEO pointed to the economic indicators, particularly the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), as a crucial measure of the business landscape in Ghana. He noted a concerning trend in the GDP growth, citing negative growth in the industry sector throughout 2023.

    “Businesses are suffering. They cannot afford to pay these taxes as they are just not generating enough revenue,” Badu-Aboagye conveyed to PM Express host George Wiafe. He stressed that the challenges faced by businesses are reflected in the GDP figures, underscoring the importance of a thriving business sector for overall economic growth.

    According to Badu-Aboagye, as of the third quarter of 2023, the overall GDP growth was at 2%, with various sectors performing below expectations. He pointed out that consistent negative growth in the industry sector indicates the broader struggles of businesses.

    In conclusion, Badu-Aboagye urged the government to reconsider its approach to taxes, emphasizing the critical role of businesses in driving economic growth. He suggested that a careful examination of GDP figures could provide insights into the actual state of businesses in Ghana.

  • Former CIA hacker receives 40-year prison sentence

    Former CIA hacker receives 40-year prison sentence

    A former CIA employee received a 40-year prison sentence for passing on confidential hacking tools to Wikileaks.

    Joshua Schulte was also declared guilty of having pictures of children being hurt.

    The prosecutors said he gave out secret spy tools that let agents hack into smartphones and listen in on people.

    They said the leak is one of the most “bold” in US history.

    Schulte, who is 35 years old, gave Wikileaks about 8,761 documents in 2017. This was the biggest data breach in the history of the CIA, according to the US justice department.

    He said he didn’t do it, but he was found guilty at three different trials in New York in 2020, 2022, and 2023.

    On Thursday, he was punished for spying, hacking into computers, disobeying the court, lying to the FBI and having inappropriate pictures of children.

    US Attorney Damian Williams said that Joshua Schulte betrayed the country by doing very bad spying crimes.

    During the trial, it was shown that Schulte worked as a computer programmer for the Center for Cyber Intelligence. This center spies on terrorist groups and other countries using the internet.

    In 2016, prosecutors said he gave the stolen information to Wikileaks and then lied to FBI agents about it.

    They said he was angry because of a problem at work.

    Schulte was having a hard time finishing his work on time. Assistant US Attorney Michael Lockard said one of his projects was behind schedule and people were calling him “Drifting Deadline”.

    The lawyers said he wanted to harm those who he believed did something bad to him and in doing that, he caused a lot of harm to the country’s safety.

    Wikileaks started sharing secret information from the files in 2017.

    The information that was leaked caused a lot of harm to the CIA. It made it harder for them to spy on other countries and put their people and important work in danger. It also cost the CIA a lot of money.

    The FBI talked to Schulte many times after WikiLeaks released the information, and he said he didn’t do it.

    Prosecutors said they found a lot of inappropriate pictures of children in his apartment.

    They also said that after he was arrested, Schulte tried to send more information. He brought a phone into jail and tried to send a reporter secret information about CIA cyber groups. He also wrote tweets about CIA cyber tools under the name Jason Bourne, a made-up spy character.

    He has been in jail since 2018.

  • American settlers in West Bank face fines over violence

    American settlers in West Bank face fines over violence

    US President Joe Biden has agreed to punish four Israeli people living in the West Bank for hurting Palestinians.

    Mr Biden made a big decision, saying there is too much violence in the West Bank.

    The sanctions stop people from using any American property, money, or banks.

    Violence in the West Bank has increased a lot since Hamas attacked Israel on 7 October.

    Around 370 Palestinians have died in the West Bank, as reported by the UN. The UN said most of the people who died were killed by Israeli soldiers, but at least eight were killed by Israeli settlers.

    The new rule says that the US government can punish people from other countries who hurt or take things from Palestinians.

    The US government is imposing penalties on Israelis for the first time, which is very unusual. This decision comes as Mr. Biden visits Michigan, where many Arab-Americans live and have been unhappy with his support for Israel.

    The Arab American Institute, a group that speaks up for Arab Americans, said that since the fighting began, fewer Arab Americans are supporting the Democratic Party. In 2020, 59% supported the party, but now only 17% do.

    On Thursday, a top person in the Biden government said the president has talked to Israel many times about settlers causing violence.

    The executive order explains how the US will act if there are more attacks in the West Bank. It is more serious than the visa restrictions it put on some people last year.

    “The situation in the West Bank is really bad. There’s lots of violent attacks from extremist settlers, people being forced to leave their homes and villages, and a lot of property being destroyed. This is a big danger to the peace, safety, and stability of the area,” Mr. Biden wrote in a letter to Congress to explain his decision.

    A top government person said that the first set of penalties, which are aimed at four individuals, are for people who have committed violence and scared and forced Palestinian communities to leave their homes.

    They said one person started and led a riot that caused the death of a Palestinian civilian in the town of Huwara, while another person attacked people with stones and clubs.

    They said that the executive order applies to both Israelis and Palestinians who are involved in violent acts, threats, intimidation, or terrorism. It is not discriminatory.

    The US government identified four Israelis who are being punished. Their names are David Chai Chasdai, who is 29 years old; Yinon Levi, who is 31 years old; Einan Tanjil, who is 21 years old; and Shalom Zicherman, who is 32 years old. The Treasury said that three people lived in West Bank settlements and one person lived near the border of the occupied region.

    American citizens, who are believed to have a part in the violence, cannot be given these US sanctions.

    Matthew Miller from the State Department said that the US thinks the sanctions will affect these four people and wants Israel to do more to punish those responsible for settler violence.

    Soon Biden signed the order, Israel showed it was not happy and said that most of the people living in the West Bank follow the law.

    The Prime Minister’s office said that Israel punishes anyone who breaks the law, so there is no need for special actions on this issue.

    The reply showed that the disagreement between the US and Israel is getting worse.

    The two leaders have been friends for a long time, but they have argued recently about whether there should be a separate country for the Palestinians. The US thinks it’s important for there to be a separate country for Palestinians next to Israel, to keep the area stable for a long time.

    Mr Netanyahu has said no many times, and the White House has confirmed that the US and Israeli governments have different views.

    Those comments made some people stop believing that the conflict could lead to Israeli and Palestinian leaders starting to talk and starting the peace process again.

  • Paul Adom Otchere fingers Senyo Hosi in GRA-SML exposé

    Paul Adom Otchere fingers Senyo Hosi in GRA-SML exposé

    Former CEO of Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors, Senyo Hosi, has found himself at the center of the documentary criticizing the controversial Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML) deal. 

    The allegations were raised during an episode of Good Evening Ghana by the host, Paul Adom Otchere.

    During the show, Otchere alleged that Mr Hosi was implicated in the creation of a documentary that seeks to undermine the work of the SML, although he could not substantiate his claim with any evidence. 

    The SML deal has been a subject of extensive discussions and debates following the Fourth Estate’s documentary dubbed: “The GHS3 billion lie & the billion-dollar contract.”

    Background

    A new investigative report has revealed irregularities in a multi-million cedi contract awarded by the Ghanaian government, raising concerns about transparency and value for money.

    The report by Fourth Estate released on Monday details their findings into a deal between the government and Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited (SML) in 2019.

    Under the contract, SML is receiving large monthly payments of up to GHS24 million, despite having no prior experience in the services they claimed to provide.

    SML was hired through a single source procurement process to address issues like underreporting and diversion in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector.

    However, regulatory authorities said these problems were already being efficiently handled by established systems.

    The report further revealed that SML took credit on its website for revenue increases in the sector, including an unfounded claim that it had saved Ghana over GHS3 billion.

    But the revenue growth has been attributed to rising volumes and increased tax rates – factors SML did not contribute to.

    When confronted by the Fourth Estate, SML admitted it did not perform the listed functions and removed the false statements.

    Nonetheless, the large payments continue through the questionable contract despite experts saying SML’s role duplicates existing work and the contract should be canceled.

    Adding to the controversy, government agencies have refused requests to disclose payment details to SML or respond to information requests, raising questions of transparency, according to the investigators.

    Fresh details emanating from the camp of Paul Adom Otchere indicates that Senyo Hosi, a respected figure within the petroleum industry, is part of a group attempting to cast doubt on the legitimacy and effectiveness of the SML deal.

    The motive behind such actions remains unclear, and these claims have sparked intense discussions within both the political and business communities.

    It is important to note that these allegations are yet to be substantiated, and Senyo Hosi has not publicly addressed the accusations.

  • US approves plan to hit Iranian sites in Iraq and Syria – officials

    US approves plan to hit Iranian sites in Iraq and Syria – officials

    The US has given the okay for a bunch of attacks on Iranian targets in Syria and Iraq, according to officials who talked to the media.
    Officials say that the strikes will happen over a few days, and the weather will decide when they will happen.

    A drone attack killed three US soldiers near the Syrian border in Jordan on Sunday.

    The US said that a group backed by Iran was responsible for the attack.

    The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, made up of several armed groups supported by Iran, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

    Iran said they did not hurt 41 US soldiers at the military base.

    US officials have promised to do something about the drone attack, but President Joe Biden and other officials said the country does not want to start a big war with Iran.

    Several groups supported by Iran have been launching more attacks on American and Israeli-related targets since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on 7 October.

    The Iran-supported Houthis in Yemen have attacked ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This has led the US and its allies to launch strikes in response.

    According to a US defense official speaking to CBS, a drone was shot down in the Gulf of Aden and an unmanned sea drone was hit and destroyed in the Red Sea overnight.

    The three soldiers who died in the attack will be brought back to the United States and taken to a Air Force base in Delaware on Friday. The White House said that President Biden will go.

  • Three individuals killed and one injured after car accident in County Carlow

    Three individuals killed and one injured after car accident in County Carlow

    Three people have died and one person got hurt in a car crash in County Carlow in Ireland.

    It happened around 11:30 PM on Wednesday in Leagh, which is about 5 kilometers from Carlow town on the main road to Wexford.

    Three people in the car – the person driving and two people riding along, were declared dead at the place of the accident.

    Another person in the car, a young man in his 20s, was brought to St Luke’s Hospital in Kilkenny.

    He is hurt badly but will not die.

    The N80 at Leagh is closed right now and will stay closed for a few hours while police investigators look at the accident site.

    Local roads are closed and you have to take a different way.

    The Irish police are asking for anyone who saw the accident to come forward and give information.

    If you were driving on the N80 at Leagh between 11:15 pm and 12:00 am and have recorded footage, please contact the police.

  • 2014: Mahama chased in US

    2014: Mahama chased in US

    THIS ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED ON OCTOBER 2, 2014

    President John Dramani Mahama was over the weekend chased with an assortment of placards of protests by Ghanaians resident in the United States, a source at the Ghana Embassy in Washington DC told the Daily Guide.

    This was when he went to Worcester to address Ghanaian residents on the sidelines of his UN General Assembly meeting on Saturday, September 27.

    Long before his arrival at the event venue, a group of concerned Ghanaians had besieged the St Spyridon Church, located at number 102 Russell Street in Worcester, Massachusetts, with a protest against harsh economic conditions in Ghana and the increasing spate of corruption in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government under his watch.

    “It was very embarrassing to see the president being smuggled through the back door by his security details to avoid public humiliation,” the source disclosed.

    Upon arrival, President Mahama was whisked away by his security details and protocol officers to avoid being hooted by the protesters who wielded placards with various inscriptions, some of which read, “Ghana is sinking under your leadership” “Stop corruption in Ghana”, “Mahama, declare your assets,” “Prosecute your corrupt friends, Mr. DJ!”

    Other placards read, “Stop the create, loot and share schemes,” “Afriyie-Ankrah must be jailed,” “When is the dumsor going to end?” and “Ghana is crying for a visionary Leader.”

    Feeling despised and angry at the President’s decision to avoid them, the demonstrators, who were clad in black and red apparel, were said to have marched around the venue for the event with their placards.

    The well-attended event was planned by the Ghana Embassy in Washington DC to afford the president the opportunity to explain some of his policies to the Ghanaian residents there and to listen to the concerns at first hand.

    One of the organizers of the demonstration, Amoako Mensah, who confirmed the incident to ‘Daily Guide’ from his base in the US, described President Mahama’s action as “an act of cowardice unbecoming of a leader of a sovereign state”.

    Amoako Mensah said he was so appalled to find out later that President Mahama deliberately avoided his own countrymen and women who had gathered at the venue to make their concerns known to him.

    He, therefore, called on Ghanaians to rise up and take their country back.

    An obviously unhappy Amoako Mensah also urged Ghanaians to re-examine the current economic and infrastructural state of the country to enable them to make informed and better electoral choices in the 2016 general elections.

  • Meta CEO Zuckerberg apologizes to parents at US Senate social media hearing

    Meta CEO Zuckerberg apologizes to parents at US Senate social media hearing

    Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg on Wednesday apologized to families at a U.S. Senate hearing about the impact that social media has on children.

    Under prodding from Republican Senator Josh Hawley, Zuckerberg stood up and addressed families who held up pictures of their children who they said had been harmed by social media.

    As the hearing kicked off, the committee played a video in which children spoke about being bullied on social media platforms. 

    Senators recounted stories of young people taking their own lives after being extorted for money after sharing photos with sexual predators.

    “Would you like now to apologize to the victims who have been harmed by your product?” Hawley asked, noting the hearing was being broadcast on live television.

    Zuckerberg stood up, turned around, and addressed the families. “I’m sorry for everything you have all been through. No one should go through the things that your families have suffered and this is why we invest so much and we are going to continue doing industry-wide efforts to make sure no one has to go through the things your families have had to suffer,” he said.

    Hawley aggressively criticized Zuckerberg during a contentious exchange. “Your product is killing people,” Hawley told Zuckerberg, whose firm owns social media platforms Facebook and Instagram.

  • US bans Sudanese businesses for supplying arms to violence

    US bans Sudanese businesses for supplying arms to violence

    The United States government stopped three companies in Sudan from getting money because they are supporting the harmful war in the country.

    The Alkhaleej Bank and Al-Fakher Advanced Works, which are controlled by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), have been sanctioned.

    Zadna International, the third company, is connected to the Sudanese army, said the US Treasury Department on Wednesday.

    The statement said that all three groups have made Sudan less peaceful and safe by either moving money around illegally or making money from selling gold.

    The sanctions are being used to try to stop the war that has been going on for nine months.

    More than 12,000 people have died and almost eight million people have left their homes because of the fighting, says the UN.

    On Tuesday, the leader of the Sudanese army called for a big attack against the RSF.

    He said he didn’t want to talk because it was a waste of time.

    The US government and other civil rights groups say both the army and RSF did bad things in the war, but they say they didn’t.

  • Ben Boakye slams New Vehicle Emissions Tax, labels it as insensitive

    Ben Boakye slams New Vehicle Emissions Tax, labels it as insensitive

    Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), Benjamin Boakye, has expressed skepticism about the efficacy and sensitivity of Ghana’s newly implemented Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112). 

    Ben Boakye contends that the imposed vehicle emissions tax, designed to curb carbon emissions, is not only insensitive but will likely fail to achieve its intended environmental impact.

    He further argued that the implementation of the Emissions Levy Act may not only result in loss of revenue for the government but also encourages individuals to find ways to circumvent the tax rather than reduce carbon emissions. 

    He emphasized that the tax may not deter people from driving, asserting, “They know you don’t have a choice. You will have to pay for it. The carbon will still be generated because the Ghanaian will have to move from one point to the other. There’s no way you are going to prevent people from polluting.”

    The Executive Director accused the government of attempting to take advantage of citizens by imposing additional taxes, suggesting that if the aim is to raise revenue, the focus should be on taxing specific activities rather than introducing a new vehicle tax. 

    Boakye highlights that drivers already face taxes on fuel purchases, making the imposition of another tax within the transportation value chain seem insensitive.

    “So, if you now say that after taking all those taxes, the road fund tax and all of it, you still want to now find ways around the same transportation value chain to tax them, you are not just being sensitive to the same Ghanaian who is driving and has no option but to drive. You find ways to tax them at all cost that is not being sensitive,” he adds.

    The controversial Emissions Levy Act, effective from February 1, 2024, imposes a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions specifically targeting internal combustion engine vehicles. 

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) explained that the move aligns with the government’s commitment to addressing greenhouse gas emissions. 

  • Forex Bureaus shut down in Nigeria’s capital

    Forex Bureaus shut down in Nigeria’s capital

    Currency exchange office in Nigeria’s capital city Abuja has closed down temporarily because there is not enough US dollars available.

    Nigerians use American money for buying and selling things with other countries.

    Abdulahi Dauran, leader of the group, told the BBC that they decided to do this to let Nigerians know they are worried about the shortage of dollars. He said it’s because of cryptocurrency and people who buy and sell things online.

    “We want to close the Bureau market so that people know we are also concerned about what is happening,” he said.

    Mr Dauran said that speculators like Binance and Aboki website are making the situation worse, and many Nigerians depend on them a lot.

    The Central Bank is trying to make the country’s exchange rate more steady. This is happening while new changes are being made.

    The central bank has told banks to sell any extra dollars they have by February 1, 2024.

    They told lenders not to keep too much foreign money just to make money from it.

  • Ghana’s Growth Investment Partners fuels rise of BPO industry, attracts global attention

    Ghana’s Growth Investment Partners fuels rise of BPO industry, attracts global attention

    Growth Investment Partners (GIP) Ghana is spearheading initiatives that are attracting attention and investments from around the world. 

    The strategic efforts of GIP are contributing to the country’s emergence as an increasingly attractive hub for BPO operations, offering a compelling alternative to the traditional Asian landscape.

    GIP Ghana has been at the forefront of fostering the growth of the BPO sector, leveraging the country’s skilled workforce, stable political environment, and robust technological infrastructure. With a focus on accelerating the migration of BPO operations from Asia to Africa, the investment firm is paving the way for new opportunities and economic development in Ghana.

    The move comes at a time when global businesses are reevaluating outsourcing strategies, seeking new and resilient locations to diversify their operations. Ghana, with its rapidly growing economy and favorable business environment, is becoming a beacon for companies looking to establish or expand their BPO operations.

    According to sources, GIP Ghana’s proactive measures include targeted investments in technology infrastructure, talent development, and collaborative partnerships with international BPO firms. These investments aim to enhance the overall competitiveness of Ghana’s BPO industry and position it as a preferred destination for outsourcing services.

    In a statement, the CEO of GIP Ghana, Mr Kwame Asante, expressed optimism about the country’s potential in the BPO sector, stating, “Ghana possesses all the essential elements to become a global BPO hub. Our strategic investments and collaborations are geared towards creating an environment that fosters innovation, provides high-quality services, and generates significant employment opportunities.”

    Industry experts have lauded the efforts of GIP Ghana, noting that the country’s skilled workforce, proficiency in English, and cultural affinity with Western markets make it an ideal destination for BPO activities. The shift towards Ghana is seen not only as a business decision but also as a socio-economic catalyst, contributing to the creation of jobs and skill development.

    As Ghana continues to position itself on the global stage as a BPO powerhouse, the nation’s economic landscape stands to benefit significantly. The positive ripple effect is expected to extend beyond the business realm, impacting various sectors and solidifying Ghana’s reputation as a dynamic and competitive player in the international outsourcing arena.

  • 10 years ago: Sam George’s appointment unknown to Mahama

    10 years ago: Sam George’s appointment unknown to Mahama

    THIS ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED DECEMBER 31, 2014

    The circumstances leading to the appointment of Sam George as presidential staffer was unknown to President John Dramani Mahama, a source with knowledge of the happenings has told ghanabusinessnews.com.

    Sam George was appointed as communication consultant at the presidency several months ago, another source said.

    According to ghanabusinessnews.com, the sources, who didn’t want to be named, all said the President got to know about the appointment after it was done and “he only fumed about it.”

    Mr George, a graduate of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, for months now has been representing the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) on radio talk shows in the capital Accra.

    He speaks on almost every matter including the economy.

    However, his recent Facebook comments and swipe at Ivor Greenstreet of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) during the NDC National Congress in Kumasi has generated hot debates and calls for his dismissal if indeed he was a presidential staffer.

    In his response to Mr Greenstreet’s scathing criticism of the NDC government about the country’s current economic difficulties and power outages, Mr George remarked that Mr Greenstreet needed “an elevation to see” the good works of the NDC.

    While some Ghanaians and party sympathisers consider the response appropriate to what they considered an attack on the ruling party, other citizens and party supporters see it as inappropriate considering the fact that Mr Greenstreet is disabled and uses a wheelchair.

    Mr James Afedo, a communications expert and sympathiser of the ruling party, wrote on his Facebook page expressing his disagreement with MrGeorge’s swipe at Mr Greenstreet. In the said Facebook post, Mr Afedo described Mr George as “of the office of the president”.

    But in a comment on the post Mr Stan Dogbe, a presidential staffer, challenged Mr Afedo, saying among other things that “you may want to also check and verify exactly where your friend, brother and comrade works, operates and supporting our party and government from, because your very conclusive position is not the fact. And Sam does not speak for the President either.”

    When ghanabusinessnews.com reportedly wrote an email to Mr Dogbe asking him to clarify Mr George’s position at the presidency he declined, describing the request as “misdirected” and asked that they contact the Communications Minister instead. Efforts by the outfit to reach the Communications Minister were unsuccessful.

    But several sources close to the presidency have reportedly indicated to ghanabusinessnews.com that Mr George is a presidential staffer.

    Meanwhile, according to ghanabusinessnews.com, a Ghanaian Palaver report available to them purports that Sam George has tendered in his resignation.

    The contents of the report can however not be confirmed.

    “The Ghanaian Palaver can confirm that the Presidential Staffer and key communicator at the Presidency, Mr Samuel George Nartey, has resigned from his post following certain comments he made about the physical ability of the General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party over the weekend.

    In a four-paragraph resignation letter dated 23 December 2014, addressed to the President and copied to the Chief of Staff, Sam George, as he is popularly known, thanked the President for believing in him and giving him the opportunity to serve in his government,” the introduction to the report stated.

  • Meet Cheddar’s tycoon big brother who’s richer than him

    Meet Cheddar’s tycoon big brother who’s richer than him

    Kwaku Bediako is the Founder and Group Executive Chairman of the CH Group of Companies located in Accra Ghana. He is a multi-millionaire and senior biological brother of leader of the New Force Nana Kwame Bediako alias Cheddar or Fredom Jacob Caesar. 

    One of this companies, Goldkey Properties, a real estate companies which won the contract to construct the controversial $250 million Bank of Ghana new headquarters. 

    Through Goldkey, Mr Bediako holds massive properties for sale and rent in prime locations around Accra, including, Cantonments, Airport Residential Area, Ridge, Labone, East Legon and Abelemkpe.

    As a child, Mr Bediako’s father preferred that he study science courses, however he differed in opinion. Therefore while studying at Mfantsipim School, he purposely underperformed, receiving E and F grades in those subjects.

    “My father and I did not speak for two years because of it,” he told Lexis Bill on Personality Profile last Thursday. “It pained me and I began to go off track.”

    Fast forward over 20 years later, the philanthropic arm of his business, the CH Group Foundation, recently donated $100,000 to the Ghana Covid-19 Private Sector Fund. 

    The donation is to help complete the construction of Ghana’s first infectious disease isolation and treatment facility, fully equipped with 100 beds.

    The donation came after of Mr Bediako and his team decided to feed the needy during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, which according to him was very successful, having served 150,000 meals throughout the country.

    Several weeks after the outbreak, it was announced that CH Group would make a hefty donation to build a facility in efforts to support the fight against Covid-19.

    Kwame, a husband and father of three children has overcome many obstacles in his journey to becoming one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the country. He recounts how the divorce of his parent’s divorce affected him. 

    “I did not see my mother for 10 years,” he explained. “My father served as my mum and dad at the same time.”

    He acknowledged that while he had a terrific relationship with his father, his inability to deal with the divorce and his failing grades drove a wedge between himself and his father, pushing him into the company of bad friends. 

    After word went around that his son was not performing well academically, Mr Bediako’s father introduced him to his business in the oil sector, and that is how Kwaku Bediako’s career took off.

    In 1997, he founded Chase Petroleum, a market-leading oil trading and bulk distributor. 

    Two years later, he tapped into the real estate market and established Goldkey Properties, a development and management firm that specializes in building upscale residential and commercial properties in prime locations across Accra.

    As of today, Mr Bediako’s company oversees eight subsidiaries across Ghana, including the Tema Tank Firm Limited, Chase Petroleum and Barton Homes. 

    According to him, the biggest challenge he overcame thus far was choosing to focus on a specific industry in business.

    “When the success came, there was so much going on,” he said. “I was in oil and there was a lot of money in it. I had to decide whether to buy big cars, chase women and misbehave or whether I should stay quiet and invest.”

    He chose the latter, although he admits it was challenging to earn the amount of money he made at such a young age. “It can be easy to make mistakes,” he added.

    Mr Bediako believes that a large part of his success is attributed to his drive to keep growing. “If I stand still I will sink. That is what keeps me going.” he disclosed.

    Furthermore, he advises that success comes from building trust with people over time.

    “I could have taken advantage of people but I never did. Cheating will always catch up with you so I always look at the big picture.”

    Always focusing on the “big picture,” he concluded, has never let him down. “Think big. Don’t be distracted by the little things and you will go far.”

  • Over 20,000 Abyei returnees in critical need of assistance – Official

    Over 20,000 Abyei returnees in critical need of assistance – Official

    The leader of Abyei, an area fought over by Sudan and South Sudan, says 21,000 people who left because of fighting in Sudan need urgent help.

    The people who came back are living in different villages and in Abyei town, according to the media.

    Over the weekend, two groups of young people with weapons from Warrap State in South Sudan attacked Abyei, and at least 52 people, including two UN peacekeepers, were killed.

    The UN’s Interim Security Force (Unisfa) in Abyei is giving food to people who had to leave their homes because of the fighting and are staying at its base. But the help won’t continue for very long.

    “The situation in Abyei is ‘more difficult’. ” There have been a lot of people here in the last two years, but they couldn’t grow crops because it’s not safe. Many people have come back from Sudan to Abyei, which has made the area more crowded, the chief administrator Chol Deng Alak told the BBC in a phone call.

    He said the situation for the people returning to Abyei after the fighting on Sunday is very bad. He said that humanitarian agencies need to help right away.

    Mr Alak says a group of people from the UN’s humanitarian agency and other international organizations will come to Abyei on Friday to see what the people there need.

    Sudan and South Sudan are still arguing about who owns the oil-rich area of Abyei. Right now, it is being run by a temporary special agreement between the two countries.

  • Entering Ghana’s Parliament 10 times more expensive than securing a seat in the US Congress – Bright Simons  

    Entering Ghana’s Parliament 10 times more expensive than securing a seat in the US Congress – Bright Simons  

    Ghanaian entrepreneur and social advocate, Bright Simons, has drawn attention to the significant disparities in the costs associated with running for political office in Ghana compared to the United States. 

    According to Simons, the relative expenses involved in securing a seat in the Ghanaian Parliament could be at least ten times higher than those associated with entering the US Congress.

    He noted that while the average cost of running for a US congressional seat (House of Representatives) stands at about $445,000, the equivalent average cost for a Ghanaian parliamentary seat is estimated at approximately $120,000, up from around $101,000 in 2016.

    These figures bring to light the financial challenges candidates face in the Ghanaian political landscape.

    Bright Simons also highlighted the economic context, pointing out that the per capita income in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms in the United States exceeds $70,000, whereas Ghana’s per capita income in PPP terms is just above $5,800. 

    The nominal income disparity further underscores the financial hurdles faced by political aspirants in Ghana.

    The population comparison between an average US congressional district, with over 760,000 people, and an average Ghanaian constituency, with just above 120,000 people, raises questions about the systemic factors contributing to the higher political costs in Ghana. 

    Simons emphasised the potential relevance of audience size as a factor in outreach cost, a theory fundamental to the $740 billion global digital advertising industry.

    Simmons’ analysis suggests that, in relative terms, and considering various factors in aggregate, entering the Ghanaian Parliament could be at least ten times more expensive than securing a seat in the US Congress.