About a month ago. self-styled African dancehall king, Shatta Wale has heavily descended on revered Ghanaian screen icon Nana Ama Mcbrown in a fast-trending video.
As we all know, Shatta Wale likes to pick on innocent people unprovoked to make headlines and go viral in the process.
In the scathy attack, Shatta Wale slandered the UTV United Showbiz Host and described her as an incompetent person who was employed by the TV station for the obvious reason.
As proposed by Shatta Wale to Dr Osei Kwame Despite, he should sack Nana Ama Mcbrown and employ university graduates who know more about the current entertainment terrain.
Although Shatta Wale eulogized Dr Osei Kwame Despite creating job opportunities for the youths their decision to employ Mcbrown is a big ‘NO-NO’ for him.
Shatta Wale is quoted saying – “You people are villagers, all your programs are nonsense, Nana Ama McBrown doesn’t know anything about presenting” in a part of the video.
Shatta has finally apologized to Mcbrown during an interview on Nhyira FM.
According to Shatta, his comments were blown out of proportion because he didn’t mean to demean the star actress.
He explained that he only meant Nana Ama Mcbrown is not well vexed in entertainment dialogues and he was only trying to tell the management of UTV to either train or hire another person who can perfectly moderate the show.
It was a “red carpet” affair for the campaign team of the immediate-past Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, and his team when they arrived in Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern Region.
The New Patriotic Party stalwart, who is seeking to lead the party as its flagbearer, was in the region on a day’s tour when he got what can be described as a presidential welcome from the people of Koforidua.
Surrounded by traders, party supporters, and onlookers shouting praise in Alan Kyerematen’s name, the women laid their clothes on the streets for the politician to walk on, reports The Chronicle newspaper.
The report added that Alan Kyerematen, as part of his visit, paid a call on the Paramount Chief of the New Juaben Traditional Area, Nana Kwaku Boateng III, to officially inform him of his intentions to run as president of Ghana.
“In a closed-door meeting, Mr. Alan Kyerematen discussed matters of interest with Nana Kwaku Boateng III and some of his sub-chiefs. They also discussed his ambition to become flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party,” the report stated.
Alan also met with some executives of the NPP in the region, where he appealed to them to lend him their support as he aims to become their flagbearer.
Nana Tonardo has asked Afia Schwarzenegger to return the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado she goes about flaunting in town.
Alleging that the said vehicle was acquired through blackmail, Tonardo established that it belongs to Afia Schwarzenegger’s husband’s first wife.
Earlier, Afia’s ‘best friend turned nemesis’, Nana Tonardo, alleged that the former is currently married to a chief as a second wife.
This comes after videos capturing Afia in a bridal kente gown and spotted with a wedding ring went viral on social media.
“Afia Schwarzenegger has snatched someone’s husband with maximum speed. She is now a second wife to a certain chief. As for the chief, I won’t mention his name now. At the right time, the chief’s wife will speak. Men really have a problem. I don’t know what it is about Afia Schwarzenegger. Is it about her artificial butt, face, nose, face and body? What is so special about her body?” Tonardo earlier stated on social media.
Spreading more allegations in relation to the development, Tonardo said Afia blackmailed her way into becoming a second wife.
He said Afia Schwarzenegger is currently in possession of her ‘co-wife’s vehicle which she has blatantly refused to return.
“You got the Toyota Prado through blackmail. Before I forget, that particular car belongs to his first wife so return it. Whether you like it or not, the Prado belongs to the first wife of the chief and we will take it back. We will take it for her! Queen mother number one, I greet you.
“I don’t know what you fed the chief with, that compelled him to marry you. Or maybe you used ‘do as I say’ charm with a touch of blackmail. So, you haven’t stopped this? As for the chief, I know his hands have been tied up. I know Afia holds some evidence about him. Be careful when you leave your phones around women,” he stressed in a video shared on Instagram.
Nana Tonardo further noted that Afia had always dreamt of earning the ‘wife of a king’ title, as she has ‘lowkey’ envied some female celebrities who held that status.
“You want to compare yourself to Oheneyere Mercy Asiedu and Oheneyere Gifty Anti. So lowkey you wanted to be a Queen mother so bad,” he added.
A gas tanker crashed and caught fire at Sokoban Ampayoo, a suburb of the Atwima Kwanwoma District in the Ashanti Region.
According to a report by the Daily Guide newspaper, the accident, which happened on Thursday, February 9, 2023, was as a result of one of the tyres of the speeding gas tanker bursting.
The report indicated that the tyre burst when the speeding tanker got to a sharp curve which led to the driver losing control of the vehicle and it crashing into a gutter.
It added that the tanker caught fire after crashing, but the driver and his conductor managed to escape with minor injuries and were taken to a health facility by residents of Sokoban Ampayoo.
The community members then fled the scene of the accident fearing a possible gas explosion and called for the help of the Ghana National Fire Service.
An eyewitness, Kofi Boateng, is reported to have said that but for the timely intervention of the personnel of the fire service, the tanker, which was fully loaded with gas, will have exploded.
“I must confess, the firefighters have done a yeoman’s job today and they deserve to be applauded and appreciated for their hard work,” he said.
Another eyewitness, Adwoa Konadu, also said “but for the timely intervention of the firemen, surely the blaze would have exploded and caused massive destruction.”
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5PSfdDj98cs
The report added that the accident caused traffic on the Ampayoo to Sokoban road as cars from both directions had to wait for hours for the fire to be doused.
Social media users who have come across this new trending video of star actress, Jackie Appiah, have firmly suggested that the mother of one is pregnant with her second child.
This video has sparked massive reactions from social media users, most especially fans of the actress who have expressed their immense happiness for her.
In the short clip, Jackie Appiah tried covering her tummy with her handbag but she was late because the camera had already captured her protruding stomach.
Aside from her protruding stomach, her saggy boobs also give a clue about her current condition – Because as we all know, pregnant women develop saggy boobs.
Interacting with GH Konkonsa who filmed her and later shared the footage on social media, Jackie Appiah confessed that she’s now looking horrible.
Another clear hint that she might have conceived because pregnant women normally lose their self-confidence until they put to birth because their beauty drastically wanes.
Below are some of the popular comments gathered under the video which suggest Jackie might be pregnant.
kdsam_genuine – I think she is pregnant!
maamee_serwaah – She is pregnant
rosenartey3 – She is pregnant
asha.adepa – Is she pregnant ??
kennie_truth – Think sweetheart is pregnant ? and she surely has never looked horrible before… Alway beautiful
adwoajoy2 – She’s pregnant
ruru_plug – eii what’s Jackie trying to hide with her bag
Recall that in 2020, reports that Jackie Appiah was pregnant took over social media trends by storm.
It was wildly allegedly back then that the actress was pregnant for Liberian president Geroge Oppong Weah.
During an appearance on UTV’s United Showbiz show, she vehemently denied dating George Opong Weah and also dismissed the reports that she was pregnant.
Marie-Claire Rupio, the wife of Ghanaian player, Christian Atsu has called on the governments of Turkey and the United Kingdom to deploy more personnel and equipment to help rescue her husband and other people trapped in the rubble of buildings following an earthquake in Turkey.
Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Marie-Claire Rupio urged authorities in Turkey and the UK to put in more effort in rescuing people who are still under the rubble at the Renaissance Residence.
According to her, time is running out and failure on the part of authorities to send in more resources could lead to more casualties.
“I will appeal for the Hatayaspor club and the Turkish authorities and the British government to send the equipment to get the people out who are still trapped in the rubble. Especially for my husband and the father of my children as well because they need the equipment to get them out. They can’t get that deep without the equipment and time is running out,” she stated.
Christian Atsu and some members of his club Hatayaspor got trapped in the earthquake that rocked Turkey and Syria on Monday, February 6, 2023.
Although some of the victims of the earthquake have been found and rescued, Atsu is yet to be found contrary to earlier reports that the former Newcastle player had been rescued and taken to hospital.
As of Monday 2023, CNN reports that 34,000 people have died in the wreckage in both Turkey and Syria.
It appears there’s no end in sight to the long standing feud between actress cum socialite Afia Schwarzenegger and his friend turned enemy Nana Tornado as the two keep throwing jibes at each other.
In the latest twist, Nana Tonardo has asked Afia Schwarzenegger to return the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado she goes about flaunting in town.
Alleging that the said vehicle was acquired through blackmail, Tonardo established that it belongs to Afia Schwarzenegger’s husband’s first wife.
Earlier, Afia’s ‘best friend turned nemesis’, Nana Tonardo, alleged that the former is currently married to a chief as a second wife.
This comes after videos capturing Afia in a bridal kente gown and spotted with a wedding ring went viral on social media.
“Afia Schwarzenegger has snatched someone’s husband with maximum speed. She is now a second wife to a certain chief. As for the chief, I won’t mention his name now. At the right time, the chief’s wife will speak. Men really have a problem. I don’t know what it is about Afia Schwarzenegger. Is it about her artificial butt, face, nose, face and body? What is so special about her body?” Tonardo earlier stated on social media.
Spreading more allegations in relation to the development, Tonardo said Afia blackmailed her way into becoming a second wife.
He said Afia Schwarzenegger is currently in possession of her ‘co-wife’s vehicle which she has blatantly refused to return.
“You got the Toyota Prado through blackmail. Before I forget, that particular car belongs to his first wife so return it. Whether you like it or not, the Prado belongs to the first wife of the chief and we will take it back. We will take it for her! Queen mother number one, I greet you.
“I don’t know what you fed the chief with, that compelled him to marry you. Or maybe you used ‘do as I say’ charm with a touch of blackmail. So, you haven’t stopped this? As for the chief, I know his hands have been tied up. I know Afia holds some evidence about him. Be careful when you leave your phones around women,” he stressed in a video shared on Instagram.
Nana Tonardo further noted that Afia had always dreamt of earning the ‘wife of a king’ title, as she has ‘lowkey’ envied some female celebrities who held that status.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5PSfdDj98cs
“You want to compare yourself to Oheneyere Mercy Asiedu and Oheneyere Gifty Anti. So lowkey you wanted to be a Queen mother so bad,” he added.
Ghanaian broadcaster, Dan Kwaku Yeboah has descended on the Ghana Football Association and the Sports Ministry for neglecting Under-20 World Cup-winning coach Sellas Tetteh who is down with an ailment.
Yeboah quizzed both institutions whether they are waiting for Sellas to pass on before they pen an emotional message and recount the good things he did for the country.
Popular Ghanaian fashion designer, Elikem Kumordzie has clarified why he chose to publicly criticise rapper Sarkodie over his outfit instead of doing so privately.
He stated that he refused to privately draw Sarkodie’s attention to the mistakes spotted in his outfit because the rapper is noted for not responding to messages.
He made these comments while admitting that he does not have any relationship whatsoever with the rapper.
Elikem’s statements are in reaction to the numerous attacks after he was said to have earlier shared a ridiculing post about Sarkodie.
‘The tailor’, shared a picture of Sarkodie’s two-pieced outfit, where he highlighted some parts, he believed were shabbily done based on his professional eye.
But clarifying matters during a phone-in session on UTV’s United Showbiz, Elikem Kumordzie said:
“I have never met Sarkodie either on a professional or a friendly level. Recently a lot has been said about him concerning ignoring features and refusing to respond to messages. I just put it out there in the spur of the moment. I didn’t even think of sending him a DM.”
Although he has apologized for the way he handled the issue, Elikem insists that his post about the rapper was blown out of proportion.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5PSfdDj98cs
“I made this post about another designer three or four years ago and nobody said nothing. Now I have done the same to Sarkodie and it’s a big deal. I’m guessing because it’s Sarkodie and the level of his success. I don’t know why this has become a big deal. That’s what overwhelms me,” he emphasized.
The legal tussle between the Tamale Technical University College and the Anbariya Islamic Institute has been settled by a High Court in Tamale.
The Court has ordered the Anbarriya Islamic Institute to vacate with immediate effect their illegal occupation of the structures of the Technical University College located at Viting off the Salaga road.
The Court also found four members of the Islamic Institute guilty of contempt for organizing and leading a mob attack on the staff and students of the university college.
Presided by Mr. Justice Richard Mac Kugyaphaw, the court ruled that the occupation of the university’s properties by the Islamic institute has no basis in law, hence Anbariya must vacate the premises pending the outcome of the substantive case of a land dispute between the two institutions.
The case between these two institutions started in 2010 after years of being together.
The Ambariya Islamic Institute after the death of its leader filed a case at the High Court following a disagreement over the ownership of the land and other properties of the university.
However, whilst the case was ongoing, some alleged disgruntled members of the Islamic Institute in April 2022 reportedly claimed that the court was delaying in bringing finality to the matter, and therefore mobilized themselves to attack and forcefully eject the staff and students of the university.
The attack was organized via Whatsapp where all Anbariya faithful were called upon to invade the university.
It all started on Saturday the 26th of June, 2022, when two individuals were sighted digging within the premise of the university.
The University’s Principal Dr. Osman Al-Hassa, and the Registrar, Mumuni Alaru, who were both on campus that day, decided to confront the individuals to establish their identity and mission.
The two men who were later found to be members of the Anbariya Islamic Institute got infuriated that the principal and his administrator came to ask them why they were digging on the university land when the matter was still in court.
Suddenly, the two men began to behave violently which attracted other members of the Islamic Institute in the neighborhood to mass up at the school.
Soon, the marauding Anbariya Islamists began to flinch stones and other offensive objects at the Principal and his Registrar who had to flee the scene to save their lives.
The same day, a senior imam of the Islamic Institute put out a voice recording on Whatsapp asking inviting the followers to come out in their numbers to attack the university and its staff and students.
The police were informed but no practical action was taken against the attackers. The police however only invited the leadership of the Institute, including the originator of the voice recording, and admonished them to desist from carrying out their planned illegal action on the university.
Then on Monday, the 28th of June, while students were waiting to start writing their end-of-semester exams and despite the warning by the police, a huge crowd of Anabariya followers, including students, violently descended on the university from all directions.
They staged a rampage in the school, attacking everything on site whilst chanting ‘Allah Akbar, Allah Akbar.
Soon, they were able to chase out the students and staff and proceeded to occupy the classrooms and other structures of the school.
In the process of the attack, the Anbariya mob destroyed the properties of the school and also committed physical abuses against the principal and his staff.
The Principal although rescued by the police through the firing of multiple gunshots, it was not until the mob broke his nose and severely damaged his medicated spectacles.
Days later, some old students of the school from the south of the country who unknowingly went to the school to ask about their certificates were kidnapped and brutalized.
After several backchannel attempts to resolve the stalemate, including the involvement of chiefs and other opinion leaders, the university sued the Islamic Institute for contempt demanding their eviction from university land and punishment against the attackers.
On Monday, the 30th of January, the High Court presided by Mr. Justice Richard Mac Kogyapwah, found four persons guilty of contempt for the violent attack and legal occupation of the university’s properties.
“I find 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 7th Respondents liable in contempt”, the judge ruled. “I find them GHc3,000,00 each and in default two months’ imprisonment each”.
Justice a Kogyapwah also ordered the restoration of the status quo ante which means that Anbariya pending the outcome of the substantive suit filed by the Islamic Institute.
“I further order the Technical University College Tamale premises occupied by the Anbariya senior high school to be vacated and all destroyed property restored for the Technical University College Tamale students to resume habitation pending the determination of the suit”.
Speaking to JoyNews, the Principal of the University, Dr. Osman Al-hassan, described the ruling as a victory for democracy and rule of law.
“It is a win for democracy”, Dr. Osman stated.
He added that “the cardinal principle of any democracy is the rule of law, and when citizens begin to take the law into their own hands, democracy suffers. So, this is an excellent ruling by the High Court”.
He also said the ruling was crucial for the survival of the university as he bemoaned the challenges the university has had to go through following the illegal occupation by Anbariya Islamic Institute.
“All our equipment for training our nurses, students information, and certificates are situated there. The instruments for the student to do their practicals are locked in there, so this is a fantastic ruling and we are so pleased with the court’s decision”.
The Principal says he expects immediate enforcement of the ruling.
“They have to leave the place”, the Principal declared. “It is a court judgment and they cannot do anything about it but abide by the judgment of the court”.
The illegal occupation of the university has resulted in the displacement of the students now forced to relocate to a satellite campus located at Dungu off the Tamale – Bolga highway.
Here, the classrooms and other training and learning materials are acutely in short supply. The students are forced to share desks and study in poorly ventilated halls.
They are therefore happy about this judgment of the court and appealed for its immediate enforcement.
This ruling will also grant the way for the proceeding of the substantive suit to resume.
Three suspected armed robbers were shot dead by members of the Abor Police Command in the Volta Region during a robbery operation at Tsive- Kpotame, close to Kpadzakope, an Abor neighborhood.
The three all-male robbery gang members were killed as a result of the incident, which took place on Sunday, February 12, 2023, at around 0125.
According to a source with the Abor Police, the police were made aware of the seven alleged armed robbers who had surrounded the neighborhood in an apparent attempt to target a home in Tsive-Kpotame.
The source said the Police, armed with this tip-off, laid an ambush in the targeted vicinity, where the suspects were in the process of invading the self-contained apartment.
The suspects, after sensing danger, opened fire on the Police but were overpowered by the officers, leading to the killing of three of them.
A Police officer, whose name has been withheld, however, sustained some gunshot wounds and was rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Police retrieved some weapons, including a pump action gun, a locally manufactured pistol, and 30 rounds of AA ammunition.
Mr Emmanuel Tsifoanya, the assembly member for the area, who confirmed the incident to the GNA, appealed to the Police to apprehend the other perpetrators, who are currently on the run.
However, Superintendent Daniel Carlos Atongnab, the Abor District Police commander, when contacted by the GNA, remained tight-lipped on the incident.
A team of Police officers, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP), Mr Andrews Boadu-Ekumah, the Volta Regional Police Commander, had since visited the area for further action.
The Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Dr. Ibrahim Awal, has urged African states to use the natural and human resources that the continent is endowed with to further socioeconomic development.
“Africa has so many riches, but reaps so little benefit,” he added. As a result, it’s time to include traditional authorities, religious figures, and civil society groups to promote inclusive and sustainable development.
In this regard, it’s critical to realize the possibilities of the multi-party democracy that most African nations have chosen for peace and advancement on the continent.
Dr Awal made the call in a speech read on his behalf at the 11th edition of the Pan African Leadership, Investment Summit and Honours in Accra, on Friday.
He lamented the insecurity and political upheavals in Sub-Saharan Africa, which was retarding socio-economic progress, and called on the governments to tackle those challenges head-on to ensure peace and development.
Professor Hugh Aryee, the Country Director, of the UNIPGC, Africa, in his welcome remarks, entreated African governments to always factor the views of the masses into decision-making processes to enable the chosen multi-party democracy to thrive.
“The masses at the local and national levels should be involved in the governance processes. The multi-party democracy shouldn’t be about elections alone, but a participatory one where the views of the people are respected,” he said.
Prof. Aryee urged the authorities to develop the political will and commitment to decouple the security services and election management bodies from the political space and manipulations, without which “we cannot build any strong public institutions run on professional values”.
The Global President of the UNIPGC, Ambassador Dr Jonathan Ojadah, took the opportunity to induct the UNIPGC’s regional executives and envoys into office to implement the various development projects.
The United Nations International Peace and Governance Council is a global civil society organisation established to accelerate peace, good governance and eradication of poverty across the world.
It is also to strengthen government’s efforts to handle civil and ethnic conflicts and inter-state wars, as well as the negative impact of civic globalisation, terrorism and human rights abuses.
The chaos in Bawku has led to the death of 27 pregnant women and their unborn babies over inability to access hospital.
Between 2021 and last year, 27 pregnant women in need of critical medical attention died in the Bawku municipality, a senior health officer at the Upper East Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Majeed Sulemana, has disclosed.
Whereas 20 of the pregnant women died in 2021, seven had died by the end of December last year.
“This is as a result of the inability of the pregnant women to visit and receive medical care at the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital, the only major referral health facility in the heart of the municipality,” he said.
In an interview with the Daily Graphic last Friday, Mr Sulemana said the 27 maternal deaths recorded in the Bawku municipality accounted for 39 per cent of the 70 maternal deaths recorded in the region for the two years.
He explained that the Bawku Hospital served patients from the municipality and others from the Pusiga, Garu, Tempane and Binduri districts due to the absence of district hospitals in those districts areas.
He explained that some of the pregnant women died due to their inability to get to hospital, while others managed to get to the hospital but still passed on because of the limited number of staff, which resulted in delays in administering the required medical care.
He noted that the security situation in the Bawku municipality was very disturbing and an impediment to the delivery of quality health care to patients, especially pregnant women, children and the aged.
Health staff movement
The senior health officer expressed worry over the fact that the staff of the hospital lived among Mamprusis and Kusasis in their communities, which put the lives of the health workers at risk, stressing that “some of the health staff are seen to be sympathisers of the feuding parties, since they stay with them”.
“This has made it very difficult for such staff to come out of their homes to work, since they fear for their lives, a development which continues to have a negative toll on the operations of the hospital,” Mr Sulemana lamented.
He added that due to the increased insecurity in the municipality, there was high demand for transfer among staff to leave the municipality to work in health facilities in other districts.
“Definitely, there is high demand for transfer among staff, but if you want to grant everyone, there will not be any staff to work in the hospital,” he pointed out.
Hospital’s operation
Mr Sulemana said the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital was currently not operating at optimum level, since residents were not patronising the facility.
“For instance, the clinic for HIV patients has been temporarily closed down, since the staff are indigenes who live among the feuding parties and are unable to come to work,” he explained.
In the interim, he said, the management of the hospital was relying on some adjunct staff to render services to HIV patients who really needed comprehensive medical care.
He appealed for calm in the area to enable health staff to provide the needed health care they are trained to provide, noting that “if the staff are unable to practise due to the conflict, it will have a negative impact on their skills and knowledge”.
“Our prayer is that calm should return to the municipality, so that the staff can provide their professional services for patients,” he averred.
REGSEC visit
Last Monday, the Upper East Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu, led members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to interact with the feuding parties, with the aim of restoring peace to the area.
The meeting was against the backdrop of the recent killing of some 10 residents, allegedly by the military.
Since the REGSEC’s visit, a number of people have been killed, including one Fatau Nambe, a national security operative.
The Government has received praise for its investments and initiatives in the education sector from Dr. Jaime Saavedra, the World Bank’s Global Director for Education.
According to him, initiatives like the Free Senior High School Policy and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) had made some progress in the sector in terms of enhancing the effectiveness and accessibility of education in the nation.
The Global Education Director made these comments following a two-day trip to Ghana from Thursday, February 9, 2023, to Friday, February 10, 2023, to learn firsthand about Ghana’s education system and to examine World Bank-funded projects in the field.
Dr Saavedra also commended the Ministry of Education for the roll out of the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP), saying the project was improving learning outcomes in less privileged schools.
The GALOP Is a five-year project with the objective to improve the quality of education in low-performing basic schools and strengthen equity and accountability in the education sector.
The project targets the 10,000 lowest-performing basic schools and all special schools with direct interventions.
Dr Saavedra said the Bank would continue to partner and complement the efforts of the Government in improving the quality of education.
“Our interventions are to leverage and complement efforts of State governments,” he added.
Dr Saavedra on Thursday, February 09, first called on Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, Minister of Education, in Accra before embarking on field visits to the Bank’s funded GALOP School site at the Mantse Tackie 1 and 2 Primary School, and a STEM Centre at the Accra High Senior High School.
On his second day, he visited the West African Centre for Crop Improvement and the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens at the University of Ghana, which forms part of the Africa Center of Excellence for Development Impact project of the Bank.
This is the second time the World Bank Global Education Director has visited the country.
He said that in honor of its fifth anniversary, the Chamber, which was more inclined toward trade and investments, had moved its emphasis this year to empowering young in agribusiness, education, and ICT.
At the opening of the Chamber’s fifth anniversary celebration in Accra, Dr. Oduro-Antwi said this.
He said: “GITAC will provide scholarships to students including exchange programmes and give support to innovative ideas from the youth. They will also benefit from programmes like the health tourism, technological fair and musical festival.”
The events which would be year-round began with the media launch and between February 22 and 24 there would be an educational fair where about 20 universities from India would be in attendance to share knowledge with the Ghanaian counterparts.
In March, there would be another educational fair where Ghanaian youth and students would apply for Indian scholarships with the requisite qualifications.
Similarly, a Global African Trade Advisory Chamber would be launched in Dubai and in April, the GITAC would engage the media to understand and propagate the Chamber’s events.
Whilst in May there would be the Global Annual Event, there would also be health tourism where technologies used in building clinics in just three days would be exhibited in June with a technological fair taking place in July.
Mr Nazeer A. Khan, a Member of GITAC, said Indian members of the Chamber had investments, including hospitals and polyclinics in Ghana.
He said: “We are ready to help the students with scholarships in India. The education opportunities there are very cheap.”
Reverend Edward Randolph Koranteng, Board Chairman, GITAC, said the events were geared towards developing the human capital that would serve as a business product to be sold and exported to yield profit for the economy.
He said the world was now sustained by the knowledge economy, adding that “the knowledge economy addresses how education and knowledge can serve as a productive asset.”
“This aspect of the economy relies greatly on capabilities instead of natural resources or physical contributions in the knowledge economy,” he said.
The Aboduabo potential along the Bibiani-Chirano corridor in the Sefwi greenstone belt in the Western-North Region, where sections of rock with gold have a grade and width that make it viable for open-pit mining, has been the site of a substantial gold discovery disclosed by Asante Gold.
It claimed that all of the holes it had drilled in the area had intersected gold mineralization as a consequence of its ongoing exploration drilling program, which demonstrated the presence of the priceless yellow metal.
The company disclosed this in a statement to investors, and revealed one of the new drill intercepts showed 43.10 metres of rock that contained gold. The gold in this section of rock was estimated to be 3.07 grammes per tonne of rock, with a section of 9.95 meeers having a higher concentration of gold at 6.85 grammes per tonne.
The statement highlighted that several mineralised intercepts, containing sections of rock with gold, have a grade and width which make them suitable for open pit mining.
The company indicated that the footprint, or the area in which gold is found, was confirmed to be over 1 kilometre in length and remains open – meaning there is still potential for more gold to be found.
Dave Anthony, President and Chief Executive Officer of Asante stated: “These results highlight the potential of this deposit, which is close to the surface and mineralised over an area up to 130m wide x 1km long. The drill programme to advance the target to resource definition has been accelerated. These results demonstrate the significant exploration potential that remains along the Bibiani-Chirano corridor”.
The Sefwi Greenstone Belt is home to historically significant gold mining operations, including the Bibiani and Chirano mines which have produced over 8 million ounces of gold to date from shear faults and veins.
Asante Gold controls a 53km-long by up to 5km-wide corridor that is bisected by both the Bibiani and Chirano shear zones. The Aboduabo prospect is located approximately 5km north of the Chirano process plant and 10km south of the Bibiani process plant. The mineralisation remains open along strike and to depth, with the drilling programme having been accelerated and new intercepts confirming near-surface, high-grade mineralisation with increased widths.
The company is exploring the Bibiani-Chirano corridor for new discoveries to grow its mine and near-mine resources and increase the life of mine at both operations. Asante operates the Bibiani and Chirano Gold Mines, with combined forecast production of approximately 400,000 ounces of gold for 2023.
It is also exploring its Keyhole, Fahiakoba and Betenase projects for new discoveries, all adjoining or along strike of major gold mines near the centre of Ghana’s Golden Triangle.
The company, headquartered in Vancouver-Canada, announced initial exploration results on January 17, 2023. To date, 19 holes totalling 4,300m have been completed. The drilling campaign has been accelerated and new intercepts confirm near-surface, high-grade mineralisation with increased widths. The gold mineralisation remains open along strike and to depth.
Asante said additional drilling is currently underway to follow-up on these results and explore the area further.
Figure 1: Aeromagnetic map of the Bibiani-Chirano Gold Corridor, Principal Asante gold deposits and recent significant intercepts at the Aboduabo prospects.
Figure 2: Plan-view map of Aboduabo showing collar locations and recent drill results. (* Previously reported result.)
Figure 3: Aboduabo – Cross-section looking north recent drill intercepts (CHDD3347 and CHRC3351)
Qualified Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates who have received placement into various Senior High Schools (SHSs) and technical and vocational institutions are expected to report to school on February 20, 2023.
This is part of the timetable the Ghana Education Service (GES) has released for the academic year for all SHSs and also basic schools.
The timetable comes ahead of the release of the placements by the Computerised Schools Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).
The SHS timetable is in two categories — that for schools under the double-track system and that for those that will run a single stream.
Under the double-track system, freshers are expected to report to school on February 20 and stay in school until April 13 when the first part of the first semester is expected to be over.
They will, however, be required to return to school on June 9, 2023 and stay until August 10, when they will take a second break.
The last lap of the first year begins on September 18 and ends on November 30, 2023, when the students would have completed the second semester of the first year.
For freshers going to schools running the single track, the timetable is slightly different.
For instance, even though they will report on the same day as their counterparts in the double-track schools, they will break on April 5, resume on April 17 and stay until September 15 when their academic calendar will end.
Meanwhile, Form Two students in the double-track system will head home on February 18 and return to school on April 11 till June 1, 2023 for yet another break.
They will be expected to return to school on August 14 until November 30, when the academic year will be over for them.
Meanwhile, their counterparts in the single track, who reported to school on the same date, January 10, will go home on April 6, resume on April 17 and remain until August 25, 2023, when the academic year will end for them.
Final-year students of both the double track and the single stream who reported to school on January 10 will take an 11-day break from April 6 to 16 and return to school on April 17 until June 1 for yet another seven-day break, before going back on June 9 until they complete writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) on September 15, 2023.
Transitional calendar
The academic calendar, described as a “transitional”, has been scheduled in such a way that there are two cohorts of students in school at any given time for the double-track schools.
Explaining, the Deputy Director-General of the GES in charge of Quality and Access, Dr Kwabena Bempah Tandoh, said the timetable was designed to ensure that over the years, “all students will complete a minimum of 3,134 hours, averaging 1,134 hours per year”.
On the calendar for kindergarten, primary and junior high schools (JHSs), the first term spans January 10 to March 24, while the second term begins from April 3 to June 15.
The third term begins from June 27 to September 14, 2023, while for JHS Three students, the third term begins from June 27 until the end of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), which will be written in September this year.
Directive
A letter signed and issued by Dr Tandoh to all regional directors of education asked them to ensure that all heads of basic and second-cycle schools in their respective regions took note of the calendar and complied accordingly to facilitate the smooth running of the academic year.
The letter, titled: “2023 Academic calendar for all Ghana Education Service schools”, wished all staff a successful and productive 2023.
Ahead of the Valentine’s day celebration, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has cautioned the general public to be mindful of the activities of cyber scammers who take advantage of the day to defraud people.
The Authority in a statement issued on February 9, 2023 and sighted by the Independent Ghana, said while people genuinely express their affection for others by sending gifts or items with messages or love, malicious cyber actors also take advantage of the day to defraud people.
Thus, the Authority by the alert is reminding the public to exercise caution and due diligence in their online activities.
How the scammers operate?
In first instance termed as “Romance Scams,” the Authority explained that malicious actors create fake online profiles to deceive victims into believing they are engaging in a trusting relationship.
” They use the relationship to persuade the victims to send money, provide personal and financial information, or purchase items for them.”
In another instance termed as “Sopping Fraud,” malicious actors create fake websites or online shops or impersonate existing businesses on social media pages, offering heavily discounted packages and items.
“Victims are enticed to send money for these deals but never receive the promised packages/items.”
The Authority also mentioned “Phishing Scams” whereby malicious actors send unsolicited emails or messages claiming to be from a romantic partner, or from a company offering Valentine’s Day deals.
“These messages contain links or attachments that when clicked, install malicious software (malware), or steal personal information.”
Also, in what has been classified as “Lottery and Prize Scams,” malicious actors contact victims and claim that they have won a prize or lottery for a Valentine’s Day gift but need to pay a fee or provide personal information to claim the prize.
Last but not the least, the Authority mentioned “Charity Scam” whereby malicious actors may contact victims and claim to be a charity organization.
“They may ask for donations for Valentine’s Day gifts for needy children and other related causes.”
The Authority thus warned the public to be “wary of unsolicited messages or emails claiming to be from a romantic partner.”
It also cautioned against “too good to be true” deals on Valentine’s Day packages or gifts.
“Do not share personal information such as your Ghana card number, credit card information, or bank account details with anyone, especially if you do not know them well,” the Authority added.
Also, it advised citizens to use a reputable online marketplace or retailer when purchasing Valentine’s Day gifts. Look for reviews and customer feedback before making online purchase.
Individuals who encounter any of the aforementioned instances can reach out to the Authority and report the incident.
“The CSA has a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Point of Contact (PoC) for reporting cybercrimes and for seeking guidance and assistance on online activities. Call or Text – 292, WhatsApp – 050 160 3111, Email – mailto:report@csa.gov.gh.”
A New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate hopeful, Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, has appealed to Ghanaians to vote to maintain his party in power in 2024.
According to him, this would contribute to maximize gains of the “solid foundation” laid by the Akufo-Addo government within the last 6 years.
Speaking at a media engagement in Ho during his tour of the Volta Region, Mr. Kyeremanteng said maintaining the NPP in power would ensure continuity of governance and a smooth administration of the state.
He said that policies and programs introduced by the government transcended into the growth of the economy before the COVID-19 pandemic struck.
He disclosed that his Great Transformational Plan (GTP) is engineered to diversify the country’s economy by introducing 10 new sectors among other practicable initiatives to restore the economy,
Mr. Kyeremanteng asserted that only he can lead the NPP to victory in 2024 because he is capable of transforming the economy and his name resonates with the electorates in every nook and cranny of the country.
He said the establishment of about 6 new automobile assembling factories in Ghana, and the success of the 1 District 1 factory policy, among others indicates he is capable of leading “Ghana to rise again”.
He further indicated that the NPP must select a candidate who can increase its electoral fortunes in the Ashanti Region and reduce votes of the National Democratic Party (NDC) in the Volta Region to win the general elections.
“If we want to win this very important and difficult election ahead of us, we need a leader of our party who has the capacity to consolidate our gains in our stronghold.
“We need a leader who can win at least 80% of the votes in the Ashanti Region. For me, Alan is our best choice to do that.
“We also need a leader who can reduce the difference of our opponents in their stronghold, again to do that, Alan is the candidate”, he said.
He lamented the NPP’s inability to rake in a substantial percentage of total votes in the Volta Region in previous general elections.
“As I have said, people of the Volta Region have taken me as their son, as their friend, as their brother.
All that the people of the Volta Region are saying to the NPP is that if you bring Alan, we will vote for him”, he stressed.
He earlier held a closed-door meeting with NPP Executives in the region, and later took a tour of the Ho Central Market where he interacted with traders.
American rapper, Jay Z, has represented Ghana during the annual Super Bowl, the National Football League’s penultimate playoff game that determines the league champion in America.
The show also has some of the top artistes attending and on the back of Jay Z’s black hoodie was Ghana, clearly printed on the rapper’s apparel.
Also captured with Ghana were some major countries such as Australia, Germany, Canada, Mexico, China, Japan, and the United Kingdom printed on Jay Z’s top.
Jay Z matched his hoodie with a pair of white sneakers, sunglasses, and an all-black outfit that complemented his long dreadlocks.
At the 57th Super Bowl on Sunday, February 12, 2023, the Philadelphia Eagles will take on the Kansas City Chiefs at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona-Phoenix.
The global sports event will be witnessed by millions worldwide with eye-watering television commercials on display and a halftime musical performance by American RnB singer Rihanna and other surprise acts.
‘Mundo Deportivo’ has reported that Paris Saint-Germain will try to sign Bernardo Silva in the next transfer window. The French club are willing to fight against Real Madrid and Barcelona, two of the clubs interested in the Portuguese’s signing.
Bernardo Silva will be one of the major talking points of the upcoming summer transfer window. The Portuguese is said to have no intention of staying at Manchester City, and several clubs will be looking to sign him for the 2023-24 season.
Barcelona were the first interested in him. The Catalan club were on the verge of signing him in mid-2022, but did not have the financial means to negotiate and the midfielder finally stayed with Pep Guardiola’s team.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, have also reportedly approached City to know the situation of the Portuguese. The ‘Merengues’ have got in the way of Barca’s interest and will fight in the next market for the transfer of the midfielder.
However, when everything seemed to indicate that it was going to be a fight between Spanish clubs, ‘Mundo Deportivo’ reported that Paris Saint-Germain will also try to reinforce with the talent of the 28-year-old midfielder. The Parisians would be willing to pay the amount of money demanded by the English club.
In principle, Silva’s transfer is expected to cost around 90 million euros. In that sense, Barcelona are at a disadvantage because of their financial situation, while Madrid will try to invest that amount of money (or more) in Jude Bellingham. We’ll have to see what happens in the coming months, but PSG will certainly be looking to hit the jackpot.
According to Cecilia Dapaah, Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, the government has already contributed close to $1 billion to help with the provision of sustainable water and sanitation needs across the nation.
According to her, the government accomplished this by using a Public Private Partnership (PPP) strategy to address the escalating demand for water and sanitation demands over time.
Mrs. Dapaah made this statement last Friday when Dr. Rashid Mbaziira, the Executive Secretary of the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), paid her a courtesy visit in Accra, according to a statement released by the ministry and copied to the Ghanaian Times in Accra.
She noted that the deployment of the PPP approach led to the provision of Integrated Compost and Recycling Plants, Wastewater Treatment Plants, Condominium Sewers, Water intake and treatment plants.
She said that AMCOW was the future of water in Africa as through its summits, African commitment to ensuring the provision of sustainable water solutions to her citizens were renewed.
“The country is open to new proposals and inputs in tapping into Ghana’s 53.2 billion m3 Renewable Water Resources,” she added.
Following the reviewing of the National Sanitation Policy, with focus on open defecation, the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources indicated that the ministry was fully committed to supporting the activities of AMCOW through data sharing with sister countries for the collective good of Africa.
Mrs Dapaah said it was important to mobilise high-level political buy-in and commitment for the roadmap to formulate the post-2025 Africa Water Vision in implementing continental and global commitments on water and sanitation.
She reiterated Ghana’s full support for the proposal to appoint a United Nations Secretary General’s Special Envoy on Water to strengthen Africa’s voice at the global level in order to accelerate progress towards achieving water and sanitation goals in Africa.
Dr Mbaziira for his part stressed the need for African countries to focus on using the digital elements available to them for data collection in the water sector.
He used the opportunity to commend Ghana for the successful implementation of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) Water and Sanitation Projects, and the World Bank is considering replicating the project in other African countries.
President Akufo-Addo, has indicated that his administration will relentlessly tackle challenges confronting the nation.
Speaking at the 18th Consultative Council Meeting of the Anglican Church on Sunday, 12th February 2023, President Akufo-Addo indicated that he was aware that these are difficult times Ghana, just as they are for most people in the world.
“However, with the help of Almighty God, and backed by a sense of determination, hard work and collective sacrifices on our part, I am confident that we will successfully confront the difficulties, bring relief to the Ghanaian people, and return the economy back to the high rates of growth that characterised the management of our economy in the three (3) years preceding the COVID outbreak in 2020 and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.”
Government, according to the President, “is implementing a number of policy measures to this end, and, sooner rather than later, we shall overcome.”
Anglican Consultative Council
Welcoming the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury, Rt. Hon. Justin Portal Welby, and the Anglican Consultative Council, to Ghana, the President told the gathering at the Anglican Church has been a good example of what it means to love one another and give cheerfully to those in need, and it continues to play a significant role in the growth and development of the nation.
“All Anglicans are extremely indebted to the Primate and Metropolitan Archbishop and his team for the dynamism that we are experiencing in the Anglican Communion in Ghana presently. I have been involved, as well as following up with activities, of which I am proud as an Anglican,” he said.
Addressing the financial sustainability strategy of the Anglican Church in Ghana, which seeks to move the Church to a position of self-reliance, President applauded the decision by the Church to establish of an insurance brokerage.
“I also wish to congratulate the Bishop, Rt Rev Dr Daniel Torto and entire membership of my Diocese, the Diocese of Accra, for its substantial investment in the area of agriculture, through the cultivation of its one thousand (1,000) acre rubber plantation, the largest, private-owned rubber plantation in the country,” he stressed.
The President continued, “These and other projects being embarked on by various Dioceses are contributing positively towards Ghana’s economic growth, and the creation of jobs in various communities. Government stands ready to partner and support the various initiatives of the Church, especially those in line with the directive principles of state policy, to help develop a progressive and prosperous Ghana.”
President Nana Akufo-Addo was a special guest at the wedding of Ama Koomson, daughter of Ghana’s Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson.
Ama Koomson and Snow Gaisie tied the knot Saturday, February 11, 2023, at a glamorous ceremony that was attended by the couple’s families and close friends.
Also in attendance were Ghanaian lawmakers and a number of high-profile dignitaries, alongside the first gentleman of the land.
Akufo-Addo arrived at the white wedding in regal style to a rousing welcome from a rapturous crowd as he made his way into the church venue.
Guests who filled every space of the auditorium stood up and applauded as the national anthem burst out of the speakers.
The video has received mixed reactions from a section of Ghanaians who are also ecstatic to see a positive reception from the wedding guests who on any other day may have booed at the president.
Ama and her beloved husband dressed in coordinated outfits for their wedding.
She wore a shimmering long white gown for their beautiful ceremony, while her husband – nicknamed Deejay Snow – complemented her outfit with a white tuxedo paired with black pants.
The nuptials comes a little over a month after her brother Ato Koomson’s celebrity-studded wedding to his sweetheart, Jasmine Akortus, in 2022 on new year’s eve.
Dr. John Kwakye, director of research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), claimed on September 13, 2022, that the government’s move to request financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was only a temporary fix to the nation’s economic problems.
He believed that a long-term fix was necessary to address the economic situation.
The economic expert stated in a tweet that the IMF was only a temporary fix for our economic issues.
In order to promote policies that would change the economy from having a colonial structure to a modern industrial economy, he continued, “the long-term answers demand fiscal discipline and mobilizing our own enormous resources.”
Read the full story originally published on September 13, 2022 by Ghanaiantimes.
The Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Dr John Kwakye, has described the government’s engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a short-term solution to the country’s economic challenges.
According to him, the long-term solution required fiscal discipline and mobilising the country’s abundant resources to support policies that would transform the economy.
In a tweet on Saturday, the economic expert said “IMF is a short-term solution to our economic problems.”
“The long-term solutions require fiscal discipline and mobilising our own abundant resources to support policies that would transform the economy from its colonial structure to a modern industrial economy,” he added.
However, some economists and the Ghana Trades Union Congress have expressed their concerns because of the conditions that an IMF programme comes with.
But others are of the view that an economic programme with the Fund is long overdue since the Ghanaian economy has lost credibility following the downgrade of its credit rating by all three rating agencies (Fitch, Moody’s and S&P).
This has denied the country access to the international capital market, whilst inflation and the local currency have been impacted significantly.
Despite all these challenges, the IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, has reiterated her outfit’s commitment to reaching an agreement with the government by the end of this year for an economic programme.
According to her, Ghana’s current economic woes are not self-inflicted ones but exogenous shocks such as COVID-19 and the Russian/Ukraine War.
Speaking with Joy News at the Africa Adaptation Summit in Rotterdam, Holland, Madam Georgieva, said the present economic imbalances are not due to bad policies by the government.
Again, the new IMF Mission Chief for Ghana, Stephane Roudet, arrived in the country last week.
Roudet whose appointment took effect from September 1, 2022, paid a visit to the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta and his team and the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his team as well.
Roudet’s visit lays the groundwork for a full mission towards the end of September 2022.
Former commissioner of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, DrKwadwo Afari-Gyanhas cautioned political parties to refrain from recruiting “nonentities” as polling agents.
According to him, it is important for political parties to rely on competent persons as polling agents rather than those who can foment violence.
“Fortunately, in some elections I have seen some big people serving as agents. Don’t go and recruit nonentities to go and do the work at the polling stations, it is brainwork,” Mr. Gyan is quoted in a report by Dailyguidenetwork.com.
The former EC boss who was speaking at a lecture organized by the Rotary Club of Accra West on Wednesday, February 8, further educated the gathering about the significance of pink sheets.
He noted that “refusing to sign the pink sheet, as we call it in Ghana, does not automatically invalidate the election results.”
“Some candidates believe that if the agents don’t sign it means the results are invalid. Sometimes we are told that the candidates even tell the party ‘if I lose very badly don’t sign it’, thinking that it will be invalidated. No, refusing to sign the pink sheet does not automatically invalidate the election results.
“What does the law say? The law says if you are refusing to sign you must give reasons in writing at the polling station why you do not sign it and then the electoral commission will later look into the reason that you have given. If you have not written any such thing then ignore it.
“So it is important to remember that being an agent at the polling station is brainwork, it is not a brawl, it is not a fight, you are not going to fight at the polling station, it is brainwork, the person must understand what is going on so that he can raise these things.
“I have said many times that given the importance of pink sheets, I think nobody is too big to serve his or her party as an agent on election day,” he added.
Dr Afari-Gyan, up until his retirement in 20015 supervised all of Ghana’s elections held under the 1992 Constitution and Fourth Republican dispensation.
On Sunday, February 12 2023 at CAM Park, Karela United defeated Kotoku Royals 2-1 to get back on the winning track. Kotoku Royals were in danger of being relegated.
Shaibu Tanko’s boys were hoping to recover from their 2-0 defeat to Gold Stars at Dun’s Park, and they responded positively by taking an early lead on 12 minutes through Kharim Ayeh.
The home side’s celebrations were cut short as Royals equalized six minutes later through Richard Dzikoe.
Karela were awarded a penalty in the 35th minute which was converted by Evans Adomako to restore their lead.
The two sides went on half-time with the score at 2-1.
The second half produced no goals as Karela held on to their goal advantage to secure all three points at home.
The Pride and Passion are 2 points above the relegation zone after the win. Kotoku Royals remain at the foot of the League standings.
MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has appealed to Ghanaians especially his colleague MPs to support victims of the Turkey-Syria earthquake which struck on February 6, 2023.
In a statement in solidarity with the affected countries, he noted contended that “the ever-compassionate Ghanaian public” [can] contribute in their own little way by donating to the special initiative launched by the Turkish Embassy in Accra.
“Donations such as winter clothing, boots, gloves, canned foods, sanitary materials, and baby foods will be most appreciated. The point of collection of these items is at the National Mosque of Ghana, Kanda- Accra,” he added.
he further extended his sincerest condolences to families who have lost loved ones and it is my fervent prayer that the many more who are yet to be found, will come out unscathed.
“A speedy recovery to the rescued,” he added.
Read full statement below:
Right Honourable Speaker, I am grateful for the opportunity to deliver a statement of solidarity to the Government and People of Turkey and Syria following this week’s devastating earthquake of cataclysmic proportions.
Mr Speaker, on February 6, 2023, just before Turks and Syrians would awake to go about their daily activities, a 7.8-magnitude quake hit just after 4 a.m. local time sending tremors hundreds of miles and creating disaster zones on both sides of the Turkey-Syria border.
The world soon became witnesses to the horrendous turn of events, particularly in Turkey and the heart-wrenching images saddened the hearts of the international community. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan promptly announced seven days of national mourning and declared a three-month state of emergency in 10 of the country’s provinces on Tuesday.
Mr Speaker, it has been officially reported that more than 15,000 people have sadly passed away since the beginning of this disaster and 52,929 people have been injured. According to the UN, 300,000 people have been displaced as a result of the disaster and time is running out for many others who remain stranded under the rubble awaiting an overwhelmed rescue crew.
The WHO has predicted that the death toll could increase eightfold, with a little under 8,000 people having been rescued.
The quake has resulted in fire outbreaks across the country of Turkey including the southern Iskenderun Port which saw hundreds of containers set ablaze. Mr Speaker, it is no exaggeration to posit that the result of the earthquake has caused havoc of apocalyptic dimensions.
Mr Speaker, it is imperative to emphasize the long-standing bilateral relations that Ghana and Turkey have enjoyed over the years. Diplomatic relations between Turkey and Ghana were established in 1958 following the independence of Ghana. However, it was not until February 1st 2010, that the first Turkish embassy was established in Ghana since 1981.
It marked the beginning of a true friendship between the two nations. Indeed, under President Atta Mills, conscious efforts were made to strengthen ties between the two nations.
The Presidential visits paid by the former President of Turkey, Mr. Abdullah Gül on March 2011 to Ghana and by the former President John Dramani Mahama on January 2013 to Turkey, paved the way for further enhancement and strengthening of the relations.
Subsequently, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Ghana in 2016 created a new milestone in bilateral relations as it witnessed the establishment of a business forum between Turkish and Ghanaian businesses.
Turkish Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Özlem Ergün Ulueren is a great friend of this House having paid a number of courtesy calls on Mr Speaker and interacted with the Foreign Affairs Committee.
She has hosted a number of MPs in her office including myself and visited a good number of constituencies. Mr Speaker, it must not be lost on us, the enormous developmental impact our partnership with Turkey has generated.
Notable among these projects is the construction of Terminal 3 at the Kotoka International Airport, the construction of the National Mosque which is the second largest in West Africa, the execution of the $165 million water project for the Birim Central and Effutu municipalities and the Denkyembour District and the Completion of the Akyem Oda Water project which is a great relief to the people.
The build quality of the Turkish people is impeccable and that must explain why they boast of having the second-largest number of construction firms after China.
Mr Speaker, it is gratifying to note that the world appears to be rallying timeously behind Turkey and Syria in these difficult times. Even though there appear to be challenges with the rescue effort.
Australia is deploying 72 search and rescue specialists to Turkey following the devastating earthquake, according to the country’s Department of Foreign Affairs.
It will also deploy personnel from the foreign affairs department, police force as well as ambulance and health workers to affected areas.
The European Union has also announced a donor conference to raise funds for Turkey and Syria as the two countries continue to grapple with the devastation.
In addition, the United States military has transported two civilian urban search and rescue teams to Turkey to assist in earthquake relief efforts, according to the US Defense Department, as well as transporting first responders to and from the most impacted areas.
The WHO has resolved to send medical teams and three flights of medical supplies, including surgical trauma kits, to Turkey and Syria. Similarly, the UAE has pledged 100 million dollars in relief towards the rescue efforts.
Indeed it is comforting to note that as the days go by, several other countries and World organizations are responding swiftly to the call to send help to the doorsteps of those gravely affected.
Mr Speaker, the devastation of these happenings in Turkey has been felt directly by many other countries. For instance, three US citizens were killed in an earthquake in southeastern Turkey. Many citizens of the world who reside in Turkey have either been displaced or affected.
Mr Speaker, this sadly brings me to the subject of one of our beloved and cherished sons of the land, Christian Atsu Twasam. A Ghanaian extraordinarily talented professional footballer who plays for Turkish Süper Lig club Hatayspor and the Ghana national team. Conflicting accounts about his safety and whereabouts have left all Ghanaians and the global football community in a terrible state of anxiety and anguish.
Atsu’s exceptional work ethic, patriotism and rare talent have caused him to excel in many leagues and his time in Turkey counts as no exception. Indeed he scored a winning goal for his team only last Sunday.
He is touted by many of his colleagues as an asset. Many Ghanaians attribute their love for him outside of football to the outstanding role he has played in philanthropy.
I, therefore, appeal to the Government of Ghana and the Ministry of Foreign affairs to deepen their efforts in ensuring the safety of all Ghanaians even as we keep hopes alive in anticipation of their full recovery.
Mr Speaker, may I also urgently appeal to all colleagues and the ever-compassionate Ghanaian public to contribute in their own little way to help victims of this catastrophe by donating to the special initiative launched by the Turkish Embassy in Accra.
Donations such as winter clothing, boots, gloves, canned foods, sanitary materials, and baby foods will be most appreciated. The point of collection of these items is at the National Mosque of Ghana, Kanda- Accra.
In conclusion Mr Speaker, I extend my sincerest condolences to families who have lost loved ones and it is my fervent prayer that the many more who are yet to be found, will come out unscathed. A speedy recovery to the rescued.
This house and the good people we represent sympathize with the people of Turkey and Syria. They remain in our thoughts and prayer. We are confident that healing and brighter prospects lie ahead.
Kumawood Actor and Director Nana Kofi Owusu known as Ojohn has accused his colleague Oboy Siki of deliberately creating confusion among industry players for fame.
He cited an example of a rift between Ras Nene known in the industry as AkaEbenezer and and Kwadwo Nkansah Lilwin as being the handy work of Oboy Siki.
Speaking in an interview with Ambassador TV monitored by MyNewsGh.com, Ojohn explained that “Oboy Siki and some Kumawood actors including some Directors and producer have planned to bring down Kwadwo Nkansah Lilwin for reigning as Kumawood best actor for so many years”
“There is deliberate attempt by Oboy Siki with the support from some actors, producers and directors to bring down actors in the industry”, he claimed.
“The spirit of ‘bring him down and pull him down’ caused the downfall of the Kumawood industry” Ojohn told Osei Kwadwo.
“They did the same thing to Agya Koo, Kwaku Manu, Kyeiwaa and other popular actors in the industry but they now hate Kwadwo Nkansah Lilwin because he has failed to fall in their trap” Ojohn explained.
“Oboy Siki who is supposed to advice we the young ones in the industry has succeeded in creating confusion between Kwadwo Nkansah Lilwin and AkaEbenezer team”
“Kwadwo Nkansah Lilwin is very smart because when he realized they have planned to stop using him, he started producing his own skits and movies. Film Producers Association of Ghana and Actors Guild should be on their toes and start resolving issues between the industry players if they are willing to bring back the industry”, he urged.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo pleaded for African nations to stop pleading with the West for favors on December 14, 2022, in order to gain international respect.
“If we stop begging and spend African money on the continent, Africa would not need to beg for recognition from anyone; we will receive the respect we deserve,” he asserted. Respect will come if we restore it to its proper state of prosperity.
In an address at the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington, DC, President Akufo-Addo made this statement.
Read the entire article, which was first published on December 14, 2022, on www.ghanaweb.com.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on African countries to absorb themselves from begging from the West to earn global respect and move away from old-aged perceptions of the continent.
Delivering remarks at the ongoing US-Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington DC, President Akufo-Addo extolled Africa’s skills and manpower which he believes can bring significant change when well harnessed.
“If we stop being beggars and spend African money inside the continent, Africa will not need to ask for respect from anyone, we will get the respect we deserve. If we make it prosperous as it should be, respect will follow,” President Akufo-Addo is quoted by BBC.com.
“Africans are more resilient outside the continent than inside. We must bear in mind that to the outside world, [there’s] nothing like Nigeria, Ghana or Kenya, we are simply Africans. Our destiny as people depends on each other,” he added.
President Akufo-Addo’s remarks come after Ghana on December 13, 2022, secured a Staff-Level Agreement with the International Monetary Fund for US$3 billion under an Extended Credit Facility (ECF).
Goalkeeper Daniel Afadzwu has been named Nsoatreman’s Best Player for the first half of the season.
The gloves man was chosen by the club’s Supporters Union named “UNIT 2️” after a poll.
A statement read: ”We sincerely appreciate the gesture shown again by “UNIT 2️’’. A newly formed supporters union of Nsoatreman Football Club from Sunyani and it’s environs.
‘‘The player who emerged winner in their vote cast as the best player for our club in the first round, Goalkeeper Daniel Afadzwu has today been awarded with a citation, an unnamed cash prize and a pair football boots.
”They have also promised to from now onwards, award well performing players on monthly basis, which is the best player for the month awards.’’
Social media fans who have seen this recent popular video of Jackie Appiah, a well-known actress, have strongly implied that the mother of one is expecting her second child.
This video has sparked massive reactions from social media users, most especially fans of the actress who have expressed their immense happiness for her.
In the short clip, Jackie Appiah tried covering her tummy with her handbag but she was late because the camera had already captured her protruding stomach.
Aside from her protruding stomach, her saggy boobs also give a clue about her current condition – Because as we all know, pregnant women develop saggy boobs.
Interacting with GH Konkonsa who filmed her and later shared the footage on social media, Jackie Appiah confessed that she’s now looking horrible.
Another clear hint that she might have conceived because pregnant women normally lose their self-confidence until they put to birth because their beauty drastically wanes.
On December 14, 2021, business tycoon Dr. Kofi Amoah of Ghana lamented the meager wages paid to workers in his country.
“If you look at the salaries for a lot of Ghanaians who are working, their head is below the water they cannot breathe; so, when they come to work you do not have 100% of their focus because at the end of the month the money you give them cannot take care of everything so they have to be thinking of something else to supplement their income,” he said.
He also added: “So, let’s say you are doing fee education which is good. A lot of people are being educated but the teacher’s salary is mind is not, therefore, the quality of education given is not the best.”
Good pay would ensure workers are focused on the job
Paying workers well essential to Ghana’s development
Salary structure in Ghana should be looked at, Economist
Ghanaian business mogul and economist, Kofi Amoah, has said the salaries of most Ghanaian workers including public sector workers were not the best.
Kofi Amoah who said this in an interview on GhanaWeb TV stated that the payment structure in Ghana had to be thoroughly looked at to ensure that employers in Ghana including government pay workers the right salaries.
He said this was so essential because paying workers well would ensure employees focus on their duties at work which would enhance productivity and innovation.
Workers being productive and innovative, he said, would lead to the development of the country.
“For a lot of Ghanaians who are working if you look at the salaries, their head is below the water they cannot breathe; so, when they come to work you do not have 100 percent of their focus because at the end of the month the money you give to them cannot take care of everything so they have to be thinking of something else to supplement their income,” he said.
“So, let say you are doing fee education which is good. A lot of people are being educated but the teacher salary is mind is not, therefore, the quality of education given is not the best,” he added
Dr Amoah explained the work of an individual should not only provide them income but should be an extension of the person as well as his/her adventurism and curiosity adding that this was the reason why employees of huge companies like Facebook are so innovative.
Chris Hughton has been formally named as the Black Stars’ manager by the Ghana Football Association.
The Irish-born Ghanaian, who previously worked as an interim technical advisor for the Black Stars, succeeds Otto Addo, who resigned from his position in December 2022.
Football fans are familiar with Chris Hughton since he enjoyed a notable playing career as a defender for Tottenham before establishing himslef as a descent manager at clubs like Tottenham, Newcastle United, and Brighton & Hove Albion, among others.
GhanaWeb delves deeper into the profile of new Black Stars manager Chris Hughton.
Here is all you need to know about Chris Hughton
Early life
Chris Hughton was born in England, Forest Gate, a suburban town in East London to a Ghanaian father Willie Hughton, and an Irish mum Christine.
His father is said to be a native of Accra and still has a number of family members at Jamestown, Accra.
He schooled at St Bonaventure’s Catholic School in Forest Gate.
He combined education and football at an early age and thus played part-time in 1997 during his four years apprenticeship in lift engineering.
He completed his apprenticeship in 1979 before becoming a full-time footballer at age 23, making his Tottenham Hotspur debut for the first team against Manchester United in the League Cup in the 1979/80 season.
Club Career
He began his career at age 13 when he joined Tottenham Hotspur youth team.
Hughton was a full-back who could play on either side but was often played on the left although he was right-footed.
He has his name in Spurs’ good books as one of the best left-backs to have ever donned the white jersey.
Throughout his senior career, he played for only three clubs namely Tottenham (1977 – 1990), West Ham United (1990-1992), and Brentford (1992-1993).
Hughton won four titles with Tottenham, FA (2), UEFA Cup, and League Cup before helping West Ham to win the English Division Two in 1991.
After spending one season at Brentford, he drew the curtains a fairly exciting career at age 34. Unfortunately, he signed off with a knee injury in 1993.
International Career
Chris Hughton was the first mixed-race player to represent Ireland. In his 12-year spell with the National Team, he made 53 appearances, scoring one goal.
He made his debut in a friendly against the United States in 1979.
His only goal for his country came in the 1982 World Cup qualifiers against Cyprus where Ireland win 6-0.
Managerial Career
After hanging up his boots, Hughton decided to stick to football by taking a career path into coaching.
He has managed six different teams including a role as an assistant manager for the Republic of Ireland. A role he held for two years(2003-2005).
It all started in the late 90s when he was appointed as the caretaker of Tottenham in 1997 and 1998. He also managed the under-21s in 2007.
After serving under 11 managers at Spurs, he took a caretaker role at Newcastle in 2008 where he was subsequently named as the manager on a permanent basis.
Since assuming his first head coaching role in 2009, he has gone on to manage Birmingham City, Norwich City, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Nottingham Forest.
His honors within the period include winning the Football League title with Newcastle in the 2009/2010 season and runners-up finish with Brighton in the 2016/2017 season.
Private life
Hughton is married to Cheryl and has four children, two girls, and a boy- Carleen, Aisha, and Cian who was a footballer.
Cian played for the Tottenham Hotspur youth team before moving to Lincoln City. He featured for the Republic of Ireland at the U-21 level.
Ghanaian actor, Stephen Atangah, popularly known as Don Little, has shared how he thought his stature would have been a stumbling block to his success in the movie industry.
Don Little is mostly seen in Kumawood movies and has been able to attract the attention of Ghanaians through his excellent acting skills.
Narrating his journey as an actor, Stephen Atangah said his friends convinced him to become an actor but he was shy to take the step due to his petite size.
In an interview with popular actress, Emelia Brobbey on her Okukuseku show, Don Little said although he had the support of loved ones, he always had it at the back of his mind that people would make fun of him.
“One of my friends called Major introduced me to acting. One day, he asked me to escort him somewhere and not knowing, he was taking me to a production house. I was shocked but I partook in the movie. It wasn’t bad but because of the shyness, I couldn’t give my best”. “It wasn’t easy,” he stressed.
He added that in the past, it was difficult to land a good role in movies so he tried YouTube but it didn’t work
All hope, he said, was lost so he gave up and enrolled in a computer school. After that, he sold call cards as well to survive.
“I met one director in Kumasi and he was into YouTube so we shot some videos but during that era, YouTube wasn’t popular as compared to this time so it wasn’t also helping. I gave up and enrolled in a computer school. After completing the computer programme I was doing, I sold airtime for some time”, he added.
In the interview, he also spoke about how he became popular. He said that it all began when a pastor introduced him to comedian Funny face.
“I joined some members of my Church to Atwea mountain to seek God’s face. Through that, I met with a pastor who told me about Ghana’s comedian, Funny Face. So after the prayers, I met and told him my plight.”
Although his first encounter with Funny Face was rough, Little said the comedian reached to him again; they shot a video and that was it.
He went ahead to mention some benefits he has gained when he started acting stating that “people have really helped me especially when it comes to travelling. People give me free tickets to travel.”
The Kumawwod actor emphasized on the need for people to treat people of his size with respect because everyone is the same.
“The fact that our stature is different does not mean you should disrespect and see us as children,” he noted.
Don Little who seemed happy about how far he has come in his career boasted that his name will be part of the list of good actors in Ghana.
Dr. John Kwakye, the director of research at the Institute of Economic Affairs(IEA), has said that the Bank of Ghana’s reason for financing the budget of the government in 2022 cannot support the amount of loans made to the government.
He claimed that the BoG’s Act required that any temporary advances made to the government by the Central Bank be paid back within three months.
In a statement released last week, the Bank of Ghana defended the funding of the government’s 2022 budget with around GH44.5 billion.
It said financing the government was part of a crisis management tool used in dealing with the difficulties of 2022.
“It must be recognised that the ongoing debt operations are part of the corrective measures designed to address the financing problem of the budget. Bank of Ghana financing was part of a crisis management tool used in dealing with the difficulties of 2022,” it said.
Against this backdrop, the details of theBank of Ghana’s claims on government as of December 2022 were GH¢7.2 billion, representing its purchase of treasury bonds from banks to provide them with liquidity to enable them to meet their obligation to customers and GH¢8.9 billion, representing on-lending facilities granted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for onward lending to government.
“It will be important to recall the circumstances under which the Government of Ghana decided to seek IMF support. Ghana has lost access to the International Capital Market, and domestic revenue was significantly underperforming and not realised, pushing the state of government finances into near external and domestic default. With the above, the policy choices were not that of business as usual but rather a more challenged conduct of macroeconomic policy in the context of crisis”.
But in a tweet, Dr Kwakye said lending GH¢44 billion far exceeded the GH¢3.5 billion ceiling.
“Lending ¢44 billion in 2022 far exceeded the GH¢3.5 billion ceilings”.
“BoG’s rejoinder cannot justify the scale of their lending to the government. The Bank can provide temporary advances to the government. But they should be limited and repayable within three months per the Bank’s Act”, it added.
Elsie Addo Awadzi, the Bank of Ghana’s second deputy governor, stated in October 2020 that the country’s central bank was not to blame for the failure of the financial firms.
She claims that the BoG’s duties include regulating and licensing financial institutions, as well as removing failed institutions from the system.
It’s crucial that the media guides the public conversation in a neutral and knowledgeable way.
Headlines like “Bank of Ghana has collapsed companies” are ones we’ve heard far too frequently. Bank of Ghana never lets anything go under. No. We supervise, we license, and when an institution fails, we remove it from the system in a way that doesn’t have an impact on the system, she said.
Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Elsie Addo Awadzi, has asked the media to use the right terminologies in their reports on the sector to send the right messages to the public.
Speaking at a media sensitization workshop organised by the BoG and associations representing Specialised Deposit-taking Institutions (SDIs), the 2nd Deputy BoG Governor said some headlines distort the salient point in an event within the sector.
“It is important that the media leads the public discourse in a dispassionate and expert manner…We have heard too often, headlines such as ‘Bank of Ghana has collapsed companies’. Bank of Ghana never collapses anything. No. We licence, we supervise and then when an institution has failed, we take it out of the system in a manner that does not affect the system.
“So do not say ‘Bank of Ghana has collapsed anything’. Bank of Ghana does not collapse anything. These institutions are run and governed by their shareholders, who put their Board of Directors and a team of management. So, they collapsed the companies. We don’t collapse the companies. It is important for the media to understand that,” she stressed.
The media sensitisation event brought together key players in the sector and presented a rare opportunity for the SDI associations to better explain their operations to the media.
It also enabled the media to ask appropriate questions of the key players in the sector and provide feedback to SDIs as to what the public thinks of their service.
Elsie Addo Awadzi said it is important that the media grows to become a key partner that understands the financial sector and the regulatory framework within which the financial sector operates.
“[The financial sector] is very different from other types of businesses and it is important that the media, when they engage in discussions related to the financial sector, they do so with an understanding of regulatory environment as well as the policy environment within which the financial sector operates,” she admonished.
The Ghana Police Service, under the leadership of Inspector General Akuffo Dampare has since his appointment exhibited great passion in dealing with criminals in the country.
In a recent development, the IGP has revealed the extent to which his administration is going to fight crime while ensuring discipline in the service.
Speaking at a durbar with police officers in the Bono Regional Capital on Friday, Dr Dampare said his administration has adopted and implemented various intelligence gathering efforts such as using some police women dressed up as prostitutes as baits.
This he noted has led to an overall reduction in crime across the country.
“Some of them including some women, we were using them as baits – they dress as prostitutes unknown to everybody… to get intelligence for us and things we do you don’t know or you think that the crime in the country has just shot to the lowest level magically? Do you know the things we have done? If we are to tell you, it will blow your mind,” he is quoted in a report by Myjoyonline.com.
On the issue of discipline in the service, Dr Dampare said his administration has also waged a non-discriminatory war against indiscipline which has so far led to some 18 police officers being arrested and charged for various traffic offences.
“It is not the arrest we are interested in, we feel very uncomfortable arresting people because sometimes our own are arrested.
“When we started this policy of bringing discipline across the country, as many as about 18 Police officers have been arrested and put to court for many traffic offences,” he said. He noted that the police administration under his watch has been committed to rewarding hard work, performance and dedication.
“For this whole idea that we are the people who know our rights and that why is this person promoted and not promoted while the laws are there? It means you don’t read – go and read your CI.
“What you should know is that something that has never happened before has happened on our watch and that type of promotion that is done probably to some few people at headquarters and others, we changed it… the Commanders they know the people who are killing themselves for this job, identify them as long as they are two years in their rank, we will promote them,” the IGP said.
The Pensioner Bondholders Forum has announced that on February 14, when Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, the minister of finance, appears before the House’s Business Committee, it will be present to observe proceedings.
The Domestic Debt Exchange Program (DDEP), which targets the bond holdings of pensioners, was announced by the government after Speaker of the House Mr. Alban Bagbin instructed the Committee to call the Minister to address the House.
On the fourth day of the picketing of the Ministry of Finance premises,Dr. Adu Anane Antwi, the Convener of the Forum, made this claim in an interview with the Ghana News Agency.
He said: “We will be at Parliament, not to picket though, because we don’t have any issue with them (Members of Parliament). We will sit at the public gallery to listen and observe proceedings.”
Pensioner Bondholders started picketing on Monday, February 5th, at the Ministry of Finance to demand total exemption from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).
Government under the programme is proposing an exchange where maturity period of bonds of 12-15 years could be reduced to 5 years with the reduction of returns on bonds moved from the average of 18 and half per cent to 15 percent.
Pensioners are, however, adamant to the proposal stating that the exchange programme would hurt their livelihoods, saying their lives in retirement were planned around earnings from such bond investments.
Dr Samuel Armah Quaye, a retired 81-year-old private medical Practitioner, said he was in dire need of medical care hence extending his maturity period to 5 years was not proper.
“How can I wait for 5 years? I need money for my dialysis. I need my money, ” he said.
Dr Millicient Cobblah, a pensioner who was a lecturer at the Department of Animal Biology and Animal Conservation Science at the University of Ghana, said government must leave pensioners alone because they had paid their dues to the nation.
Madam Kokui Adu, a member of the Forum, said exempting the contributions of pensioners would not derail the programme because their contribution was marginal, adding “we are not that powerful”.
DDEP: My mouth is no longer gagged from speaking – Sophia Akuffo
Black Stars winger, Kamaldeen Sulemana made his first Premier League start for Southampton at St. Mary’s and impressed with his performance, even though the team lost 2-1 to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Despite the defeat, Sulemana shone as he made 8 successful dribbles out of 13 attempts during the game.
This impressive feat made him the first player this season in the Premier League to complete eight dribbles in a single match.
The 20-year-old Ghanaian has been making waves in the football world and has caught the eye of many European clubs.
His debut in the Premier League came during a half-time substitution in the match against Brentford, where he showed flashes of brilliance, leading to his start against Wolves.
Head coach Nathan Jones was convinced of Sulemana’s potential and started him upfront in a 3-5-2 formation alongside Paul Onuachu.
Although Wolves attacker Adama Traore had the second-most dribbles in the game, he was still four successful dribbles behind Sulemana’s impressive performance.
The Ghanaian’s energy and hunger on the field were evident and his display has only added to the growing hype surrounding him.
The former Rennes attacker’s 8 dribbles was the most completed by a player in their first Premier League start since Paul Pogba in 2016 (9 v Southampton).
A former Member of Parliament who represented the people of Shama on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (Dr Ato Panford) has died.
According to reports he died on Sunday, February 12, 2023, in the morning. The cause of his death is yet to be disclosed, however, reports suggest he died at the GPHA Hospital in Takoradi.
Dr Panford was the MP for Shama in the Seventh Parliament of the Fourth Republic.
Until his demise, he was the senior Advisor of Enterprise Audit – AfCFTA National Coordinating Office.
Tributes have already started pouring in.
For instance, the former Minister for Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen has commiserated with his family and the party as a whole.
In a Facebook post, he said “I have received with sadness the passing of my very good friend and former Member of Parliament for Shama Constituency, Dr Ato Panford.
“I spoke to the wife, son and a few family members a while ago.
“Ato was an astute expert in International Trade and Commerce and distinguished himself as an Industrialist with over 25 years in the Private and Public sectors.”
Rihanna delivered an electrifying and hit-heavy half-time show at Sunday’s Super Bowl, but social media went into meltdown when the singer revealed an unexpected special guest.
In an interview last week, the Bajan singer was asked if there would be any surprises during her performance at Arizona’s State Farm Stadium.
“I’m thinking about bringing someone,” she replied. “I’m not sure, we’ll see.”
Naturally, fans assumed she was talking about one of the many artists she’s collaborated with during her illustrious career. A guest spot from Jay-Z, Drake or Eminem seemed both likely and in keeping with the half-time show tradition of surprise duets.
But Rihanna wasn’t referring to any of them. Although nobody twigged at the time, she was in fact hinting that she was pregnant with her second child.
The singer may have failed to debut any new music during her performance at Sunday’s Super Bowl, but the baby bump she debuted instead almost broke the internet.
Image caption,Rihanna’s representatives confirmed she was pregnant shortly after her performance
Wearing an all-red custom jumpsuit by Loewe, Rihanna appeared on one of several floating platforms which soared high above the crowd, as a swarm of energetic dancers, all dressed in white, gathered below.
The audience went wild as the singer launched straight into Better Have My Money – a somewhat ironic opener considering she is not being paid for her Super Bowl performance.
As the 34-year-old dazzled the crowd from on high, her dancers performed beneath her at breakneck speed, in a display of razor-sharp choreography which they would maintain throughout the whole performance.
The singer rattled through several recognisable hits, front-loading her set with some of her most danceable and up-tempo numbers including Only Girl (In The World) and the excellent Where Have You Been.
It was a half-time show not short on spectacle, even once she had been lowered to the ground. Fireworks were let off above the stadium as she launched into the euphoric We Found Love.
Image caption,Rihanna’s dancers performed razor-sharp routines at breakneck speed
While rumours that the star might take the opportunity to perform new music failed to materialise, the decision to rely on her extensive back catalogue, one of the strongest in pop, was a sensible one.
The singer packed a huge number of hits into a tight 14-minute set, only performing the first verse or chorus of certain songs. But monster hits such as Rude Boy were balanced with the somewhat harder-edged and lesser-known Pour It Up.
Somewhat disappointingly, the set list took advantage of some of her best-known collaborations – without any of her collaborators actually joining her on stage.
As she performed Run This Town, All of the Lights and Wild Thoughts, there were no appearances from Jay-Z, Ye (formerly Kanye West) or DJ Khaled, who normally feature on those tracks.
But their absence didn’t matter. By this point, everyone’s attention was firmly on an entirely different, and very visible, special guest.
Which songs did Rihanna perform?
Image caption,The Super Bowl marked Rihanna’s first televised live performance since the 2018 Grammys
3. Only Girl (In The World)
8. Birthday Cake (instrumental) / Pour It Up
Confusion initially permeated social media as fans rushed to share their theories about Rihanna’s apparent baby bump. Many pointed out the singer is known for her body positivity and could well have just been showing off her curvier figure following her previous pregnancy.
Although the star’s bump was on display throughout, Rihanna did not draw attention to it quite as explicitly as Beyoncé did at the MTV VMAs in 2011, where she memorably dropped her microphone, unbuttoned her jacket and rubbed her belly.
But as Rihanna’s set progressed on Sunday, viewers became increasingly confident she was pregnant again, nine months after she and her partner A$AP Rocky welcomed their son.
Within an hour of Rihanna’s performance drawing to a close, as her fans debated exactly which trimester she might be in, her representatives officially confirmed the singer’s good news.
While some fans admitted to a tinge of disappointment that this will likely mean yet another delay to Rihanna’s much-anticipated ninth studio album, the reaction on social media was overwhelmingly joyful.
A 5-year-old kid in Wisiwisi, in theKwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region, is on the verge of losing three of his fingers after being stabbed by his uncle’s wife, a nursing mother.
According to a report on Angel FM, the youngster, Akwasi Alex Ofosu, was allegedly caught trying to steal fish from a soup when the breastfeeding mother discovered him.
The victim, according to an eyewitness, had lately lost his mother and was staying with his uncle and his wife.
The report also stated that the Akwasi was taken urgently to the hospital for medical attention.
“Yesterday around 6:30, I heard Kwasi crying loudly, soI asked Sister Ama to enquire why he was crying and what had occurred, she replied that she had slashed off his fingers for stealing fish from her soup. “I followed up by asking her if she had used a knife or a blade, to which she replied, ‘knife’ So I remarked, Sister Ama, you’re wicked. I then called the boy and along with another tenant gave him first aid,” a neighbour recounted.
“What I saw yesterday is that the woman chopped the boy’s fingers with a knife. One of my sisters was braiding her hair at the place and she heard the youngster crying so she asked him to come. “Even though the aunt tried to stop him from coming, the sister insisted and when the boy arrived, we saw that three of his fingers had been cut,” another witness added.
Mr. Benjamin Corley Clottey, a renowned broadcaster and former employee of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, was buried in Accra.
A memorial service was held at St. George’s Garrison Anglican Church, at Burma Camp.
Benjamin Nii Corley Clottey started work as a postal telegraph officer and junior instructor at the postal training school in Accra.
He was later employed at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation in December 1956 as a program’s assistant and announcer and later moved to the Ga section as a translator.
Under his supervision, programmes such as “Africa this week” and “Voice of our Time” gained public recognition.
The memorial service held at the St. George Garrison Anglican church at Burma was attended by family, friends, and former colleagues of the late Mr. Clottey.
The chaplain at the Ministry of Defence, Rev. Canon Lt. Col. Ian Adjei encouraged the family to stay united in these difficult times.
The family of the late Mr. Benjamin Clottey shared some fond memories of him.
Authorities have found Christian Atsu‘s apartment following the deadly earthquake that struck 10 Turkish districts, including Hatay. Atsu plays football for Hatayspor.
The Renaissance Residence, where Christian and the team’s sporting director Taner Savut lived, was among the buildings that were destroyed by the quake.
As the search and rescue efforts continue, Christian’s brother Isaac Twasam, their manager Murat Uzunmehmet, and Nana Sechre are waiting for news at the site of the collapsed building.
The authorities have confirmed that Christian was on the ninth floor when the earthquake struck, and the building was destroyed.
Miners are working tirelessly to reach the ninth floor, where Christian is believed to be trapped, from the eighth floor block.
The search and rescue teams are facing a challenging task, but their determination and bravery give hope to those who are waiting for news.
The rescue teams are working non-stop to bring those who may be trapped to safety. The discovery of Christian’s apartment has renewed hope for a positive outcome, and everyone is praying for the best.
Popular Ghanaian tailor cum actor, Elikem Kumordzie aka Elikem The Tailor, has finally apologized to Sarkodie.
Elikem criticized Sarkodie’s tailor for the rapper’s outfit saying that “the tailor no try”.
The one-time BB Naija housemate indicated that he could have done a much better job for Sarkodie hence, the rapper should link up so that he (Elikem) could be his stylist.
He further emphasized that “other African tailors will disappoint you, except Elikem Kumordzie, the tailor.”
His comments infuriated a lot of Sarkodie fans, and even naturals who believe he could have adopted a more tactful way to get his message to Sarkodie, including his DM.
In the wake of the backlash, Elikem while speaking on UTV’s United Showbiz show finally apologized to Sarkodie and indicated that he did not seek to disrespect the brand of Sarkodie.
He added that he only did the post in the spur of the moment as a joke, stressing that as a tailor himself, he occasionally makes similar mistakes.
The Dean of the University of Cape Coast Business School,Professor John Gartchie Gatsi, has endorsed the idea of turning to alternative funding sources through ethical finance, particularly Islamic finance.
Prof. Gatsi believes that with a projected global asset value of $4.94 trillion by 2025, Islamic finance could offer a more cost-effective way of lending to businesses and households, as the banking industry’s growth is expected to slow down in the medium-term due to the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme.
Also known as Islamic banking, this type of finance operates on the principle of banks and clients sharing profits and losses. Prof. Gatsi argues that this system could drive infrastructure-focused public-private partnerships, as it prioritizes socially inclusive and development-promoting activities.
“Islamic finance provides almost all the products that traditional finance offers, but with a stronger emphasis on partnerships and joint ventures while promoting financial inclusion,” said Prof. Gatsi. He also called for reforms to the Banks and Specialised Deposit-taking Institutions Act, 2016, to include ethical banking and increase financial inclusion in the country.
Prof. Gatsi warned that without such reforms, the country would miss out on the benefits that ethical finance provides, including a wider choice of financial products. He added that the growth of Islamic finance in non-Muslim countries shows that the benefits of ethical finance transcend religion and should be viewed from a financial inclusion perspective.
“The focus is on development, not religion, and that’s how we should see it – as an opportunity for diversity in funding,” he said.
Developing segment
The Islamic Finance Development Report 2021 projects that the size of the Islamic finance industry will grow from $3.374 trillion across 135 countries in 2020 to $4.94 trillion by 2025, with an average growth rate of 8 percent.
The report also highlights the growth in spending on corporate social responsibility, which reached $1.28 billion. This is in line with the principles of Islamic finance, which prioritize socially responsible investments and ethical business practices.
In addition, the report notes the continued strong demand for low-risk sovereign Sukuk bonds, as evidenced by their oversubscription rates. To meet this demand, several large issuances were carried out in 2020 and the first half of 2021, with notable issuances taking place in countries such as Uganda, Nigeria, and Egypt.
The Ghana Football Association has announced the appointment of Chris Hughton as the Head Coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars.
In a statement issued on Saturday, February 12, 2023, the GFA said it has decided to maintain George Boateng and Didi Dramani as assistant coaches of the Black Stars.
Read the full statement by GFA below:
The Ghana Football Association has the pleasure to appoint Chris Hughton as Head Coach of the Black Stars following extensive deliberations between the two parties.
The appointment is in line with the vision of the GFA to continue with the project of building a formidable squad that started with Otto Addo in the lead up to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tournament.
Mr. Hughton has been the Technical Advisor of the Black Stars for the past twelve months.
The GFA has also decided to maintain Assistant Coaches George Boateng and Mas-Ud Didi Dramani.
The three coaches were part of the technical team for the World Cup in Qatar.
Details about the duration of the contract and terms of engagement would be announced in due course.
The Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare has revealed the extent to which his administration is going to fight crime while ensuring discipline in the service.
Speaking at a durbar with police officers in the Bono Regional Capital on Friday, Dr Dampare said his administration has adopted and implemented various intelligence gathering efforts such as using some police women dressed up as prostitutes as baits.
This he noted has led to an overall reduction in crime across the country.
“Some of them including some women, we were using them as baits – they dress as prostitutes unknown to everybody… to get intelligence for us and things we do you don’t know or you think that the crime in the country has just shot to the lowest level magically? Do you know the things we have done? If we are to tell you, it will blow your mind,” he is quoted in a report by Myjoyonline.com.
On the issue of discipline in the service, Dr Dampare said his administration has also waged a non-discriminatory war against indiscipline which has so far led to some 18 police officers being arrested and charged for various traffic offences.
“It is not the arrest we are interested in, we feel very uncomfortable arresting people because sometimes our own are arrested.
“When we started this policy of bringing discipline across the country, as many as about 18 Police officers have been arrested and put to court for many traffic offences,” he said. He noted that the police administration under his watch has been committed to rewarding hard work, performance and dedication.
“For this whole idea that we are the people who know our rights and that why is this person promoted and not promoted while the laws are there? It means you don’t read – go and read your CI.
“What you should know is that something that has never happened before has happened on our watch and that type of promotion that is done probably to some few people at headquarters and others, we changed it… the Commanders they know the people who are killing themselves for this job, identify them as long as they are two years in their rank, we will promote them,” the IGP said.
Acting Director General of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) Mr Isaac Kuuwan Mwimbelle has advised the Government to encourage the building of earthquake resistant structures to enhance Ghana’s preparedness for any future earthquake.
“Earthquakes will definitely happen one day, as such, we need to rely on technology and look at how we can engineer a lot of our buildings to withstand such occurrences.”
“Over the years, building engineering has developed and even in areas where construction won’t be suitable, buildings can still be properly engineered to withstand earthquakes,” he said.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency on Friday, the Ag Director General bemoaned the increasing development of structures along high-risk earthquake areas and urged City Authorities to halt such activities.
He also advised the public to desist from putting up structures in such high-risk areas for their own safety.
Mr Mwimbelle said the GGSA was putting together a sensitisation programme for occupants of high rising buildings, the public and institutions, on preparedness and response measures towards earthquakes.
He advised them to seek expert advice from the GGSA before putting up structures in any area, adding that, such a step would ensure that people did not build in high-risk zones.
The Ag Director said in the advent of an earth tremor or earthquake, it was advisable to hide under a bed or wooden table for protection against any falling object or the collapsing building.
“After the event, find open spaces and congregate there so that in case there are any structural failures, you will not be impacted by them. If you are also on a bridge, it is advisable to immediately get off the bridge so that if it falls, you will not be affected.”
“Also make sure you’re at a safe place where falling objects would not hurt you and only return to your place after relevant authorities have advised you on what to do,” he added.
Professor Mrs Paulina Amponsah of the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, also told GNA that the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria should serve as a wakeup call to Ghana.
She said even though it was over 80 years since Ghana experienced an earthquake, the earth tremors experienced in recent times meant that energy was building up within the earth which could cause a major earthquake anytime in the future.
She said unlike Turkey, Ghana was very far from major earthquake zones and even in West Africa, the nation was in a stable zone.
She advised citizens to learn from Turkey and Syria’s cases and adhere to the right building codes.
“Policymakers and City Authorities are doing their best to enforce building regulations, but some citizens are hampering their progress by always finding ways to avoid them. Ghanaians should see what is happening elsewhere and mend their ways,” she said.
The Professor urged the Government to pay attention to seismic technology by putting aside budget for research in that field.
Mr George Ayisi, Director of Communications, National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), said the Institution was well positioned to provide relief services should any earthquake hit Ghana.
He said the various earth tremors recorded over these few years had prompted NADMO to take precautionary measures ahead of any earthquake occurrence.
Mr Ayisi said NADMO, together with the Ghana Ambulance Services, Ghana National Fire Service, 48 Engineers Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police, Ghana Water Company Limited, the Electricity Company of Ghana, Volta River Authority, Geological Survey and other sister agencies, had embarked on about four full scale simulation exercises to boost response to earthquakes.
