Taxation is the best option. In a debate that MyNewsGh.com was watching on GTV, Sheik Aremeyaw Shaibu stated, “I think we must demonstrate our devotion to taxation.”
The comments made by Sheik Aremeyaw Shaibu are in response to a declaration made by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) about its goal to broaden the nation’s revenue base.
“The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) reminds the general public of its Informant Award Scheme to reward individuals who provide information that leads to the recovery of taxes,” the statement said.
“The information includes disclosure of information on under declaration of taxes, smuggling or diversion of goods, under-invoicing, non-issuance of VAT invoices, alteration and falsification of records, failure to register for tax purposes”, it added.
However, speaking on GTV Sheik Aremeyaw categorically stated that “let’s Ghanaians be educated to know that tax is not a bad thing. We only have to expand the economy and get people doing some work so that they can be paying taxes”.
Speaking to the issue of accountability, he stressed that, “once we are encouraging taxation, strictly speaking, we are encouraging accountability”
According to him, if people at the helm of affairs are not able to account for the tax people pay, they only discourage people from paying taxes.
The Food and Drug Authority (FDAacting )‘s eastern regional head, Madam Anita Owusu-Kuffour, has urged the people to buy wholesome items from licensed food establishments throughout and after the holiday season.
“People spend most of their time having fun outside and purchasing consumables during this time of year, so if you find yourself at a bar, store, or restaurant, look for a food hygiene permit,” she suggested.
Madam Owusu-Kuffour, speaking to the Ghana News Agency in Koforidua, urged the people to be on the lookout for, “food hygiene permit that is sometimes found hanging at the wall of the facility.”
To guarantee proper public protection against the consumption of unwholesome food, the FDA launched a “safe disposal exercise,” during which it destroyed four tonnes of non-conforming items considered hazardous to public health, she added.
She explained that the items, which included canned foods, cosmetics, medical devices, and household chemical substances, were gathered through market surveillance in the Eastern Region, and that some manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers voluntarily brought expired products to the office for safe disposal.
Non-conforming materials, she added, were burned, while others were crushed with excavators and buried in the Akwadum dumping site.
Madam Owusu-Kuffour stated that pre- and post-market monitoring on regulated items was part of the FDA’s operations and was carried out as needed.
The FDA’s mission is to protect public health by ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of human and veterinary drugs, food, biological products, cosmetics, medical devices, household chemical substances, clinical trials, and tobacco product control through the enforcement of relevant standards.
Individual bondholders’ have now been included in the domestic debt exchange programme as the Government of Ghana has announced the further extension of the expiration date of its Domestic Debt Exchange to January 16, 2023.
Additional changes to the domestic exchange program’s parameters were also announced by the government.
Individual investors were initially not part of the domestic debt restructuring, but it appears the exemption of pension funds from the programme has triggered that.
A statement from the Finance Ministry indicated an expansion of investors in the debt exchange programme to now include individual investors.
“Expanding the type of investors that can participate in the Exchange to now include Individual Investors”, it pointed out.
“In addition to the foregoing extensions, the government announces the following modifications to the Invitation to Exchange, which are set forth in further detail on the Term Sheet attached as Annex A to this press release”.
Offering accrued and unpaid interest on Eligible Bonds, and a cash tender fee payment to holders of Eligible Bonds maturing in 2023;
Increasing the New Bonds offered by adding eight new instruments to the composition of the New Bonds, for a total of 12 New Bonds, one maturing each year starting January 2027 and ending January 2038;
Modifying the Exchange Consideration Ratios for each New Bond. The Exchange Consideration Ratio applicable to Eligible Bonds maturing in 2023 will be different than for other Eligible Bonds;
Setting a non-binding target minimum level of overall participation of 80% of aggregate principal amount outstanding of Eligible Bonds; and
Expanding the type of investors that can participate in the Exchange to now include Individual Investors.
“These modifications will be set forth fully in an Amended and Restated Exchange Memorandum which is expected to be published during the week of 26th December 2022. Conforming changes (including adding and modifying defined terms) in respect of the above amendments and modifications to cure ambiguity, omission, defect, error or inconsistency may be included in the Amended and Restated Exchange Memorandum”, the statement added.
To help ensure accident-free holiday celebrations, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has urged the general public to think carefully about using electrical power sparingly.
According to Mr. Richard Mac-Ekor, Ho District Manager of the Company, during this time the risks associated with improper electricity were more likely and may destroy the celebrations for entire families and communities. As a result, everyone must work to ensure safe consumption.
The District Manager made the call while sending season’s greetings through the Ghana News Agency (GNA) to customers and the public.
“We have to manage our celebrations during the yuletide and be mindful that electricity can shorten our happiness if we don’t follow principles,” he said, reminding us of the need to switch off all gadgets and appliances when leaving homes and other premises.
He said the ECG was working round the clock throughout the period to ensure uninterrupted supply, and that although major offices took their annual breaks, vital sections including the faults and the various vending points remained operational.
The District Manager wished the public a happy season and advised to limit alcohol consumption to be able to “identify electrical hazards and avoid them.
“Despite a challenging year, we have hope because of His (Christ) birth,” he said.
Mrs Patience Amuzu, Volta Regional President of the Power Queens Club of the ECG, also called to “make merry with caution,” and said women should ensure electrical appliances received the needed attention to prevent hazards and accidents.
Every year, artistes do their best to release new music for fans. Some of these songs go on to become the biggest and most popular songs in the year under review.
This year is no different. 2022 has seen musician put their best foot forward to entertain fans. In no particular order, these are 10 local songs that kept Ghanaians singing.
Sugarcane/Sugarcane Remix – Camidoh
At some point, everyone in Ghana has heard ‘Sugarcane’. Even if they may not know the title, once its starts playing they can sing it.
Sugarcane was released in November 2021 but it wasn’t until early this year that it blew up on Tiktok.
Its popularity spun a remix with King Promise and Mayorkun.
Touch It – KiDi
Since its release in 2021, Touch It has consistently stayed on the airwaves and made its presence known in many countries across the borders of Ghana.
The song was so huge, in June 2022, KiDi revealed it went platinum in India. This has earned him a huge fan base in the South Asian country. He has released a new track Shut Up featuring one of Bollywood’s huge stars.
Down Flat – Kelvyn Boy
Kelvyn Boy’s return to the airwaves in 2022 was a fun surprise for fans. Down Flat was initially released in January 2022 but it wasn’t until months later that it went viral on TikTok.
Kwaku The Traveller – Black Sherif
Black Sherif stunned Ghanaians with his performance at the 2022 3Music Awards. It was the first time he performed his song Kwaku The Traveller which at the time was yet to hit streaming platforms.
The song became a hit even before its release perhaps because of the emotional ‘rainy’ performance. The song also did wonders for Black Sherif’s career internationally.
Second Sermon Remix
Before Kwaku The Traveller there was Second Sermon Remix with global Afrobeat superstar Burna Boy.
The song was released in December 2021 but remained popular in 2022, especially after the official video’s release.
Friday Night – Lasmid
Lasmid’s 2022 was off to a great start after the release of Friday Night. The song became a got to and still is for many music lovers
Shatta Wale’s ‘On God’
Shatta Wale’s year has been somewhat quiet than usual. However, that did not stop him from dropping an earworm for the people while they await the GOG album.
Obiaa – Akwaboah
The year 2022 gave music fans one of the best pairings in the music industry in Akwaboah and Cina Soul.
The song is off Akwaboah’s Lighthouse EP released in December 2021. But it was not until 2022 that this Cina Soul collaboration swept fans off their feet.
Something – Gyakie
Singer/songwriter Gyakie continues to make an impact in the music industry with her works.
This track, in particular, is one of her releases that has held her in 2022.
Waye Me Yie – Piesie Esther
This is a song Piesie Esther released to celebrate her 20 years in the music business – a song glorifying the Almighty for all he has helped her achieve.
Ameno Amapiano Remix – Nektunez and Goya Menor
Producer Nektunez went all out for this Amapiano single it did not only go on to become 2021 biggest December jam but also for the first half of 2022.
Ameno’s music video later dropped and in March it also debut on the Billboard US Afrobeats Chart at number 7.
Non-Living Thing – Sarkodie and Oxlade
When Sarkodie released ‘No Pressure’ album in 2021, this song was not one of the lead singles nor the biggest hit at the time.
But as fans kept exploring the track, Non Living Thing became one of the jams of 2022. This increased the demand for a music video to which Sarkodie obliged.
Choplife – King Promise and Patoranking
King Promise’s singles always impress and Choplife is no different. It is a single off the musician’s second album ‘5 Star’.
Heat – Wendy Shay
Need I say more? Heat is a song released in 2021 – and it was a hit too. But as Ghana’s economic woes kept compounding, one of the songs the public turned to express their displeasure was Heat.
Balance – D Jay
This song is the Ghanaian Afrobeats star’s break-out single. The song went viral on TikTok. D Jay landed a remix later with Mr Eazi.
Therapy – Stonebwoy
This is Stonebwoy’s first single under his new label Def Jam (a subsidiary of Universal Music Group) and like anything Stonebowy drops, Therapy has gone to become a fan favourite.
Eboso – R2Bees
R2Bees dropped this single off their album Back 2 Basics in 2021. But it continues to dominate airwaves and party venues probably because of not only the highlife touch but also the sample.
The duo sampled Ofori Amponsah’s song ‘Asew’ a popular hit in the early 2000s. It brought nostalgia to the song that seems to have fans enthralled.
Celebrate – Kwesi Arthur and Teni
Kwesi Arthur has landed another mention with Celebrate. This feature with Nigerian singer Teni has stayed a fan favourite in 2022.
Mon Bebe – KiDi
‘E Choke’ – S3fa and Mr Drew
S3fa won her first Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA) with this song. It despite being released in 2021, ‘E Choke’ has remained popular with music lovers.
Gboza – DopeNation
This may have come later in 2022 but DopeNation as always have fans dancing to their jams.
This Amapiano-inspired tune went viral on social media and has since continued to rule party joints and the airwaves.
Honourable mention
Kadosh – Joe Mettle, Fameye’s ‘Praise’, Amerado’s Abotre ft Black Sherif, Mr Drew ‘Shuperu’ and ‘Dayanna’, Wendy Shay ‘Survivor’, King Promise ‘Ginger’, Epixode ‘Atiaa’ ft Kwabena Kwabena and Sarkodie ‘Labadi’.
Rapper and singer, Emmanuel Kwesi Danso Arthur Junior, known as Kwesi Arthur, has recounted some unpleasant moments in his career that encouraged him to work harder as an upcoming artiste.
Recounting how his musical journey began, the rapper revealed how he stayed in a rain all night at an event but was never given the opportunity to perform.
In an interview with Roselyn Felli on Friday, he indicated that most event organisers turned him down due to his style of music.
“…Maybe they thought my style then wasn’t trendy enough or it wasn’t what was on there and what everyone was used to because I feel my music is really different. I was more introspective, I was more of talking about my story when everyone was doing the danceable vibe and I had people turn me down.”
“Going to shows, I spoke to one of the organisers who was putting the names down who said he was going to make me perform. I stayed from 5 pm to 2 am, I stayed in the rain and it rained on me till 2:30 – 3 am but I never performed. The next day, I went to do the same thing. I feel all these things happen to strengthen you,” he explained on Prime Morning.
According to him, all the struggling moments help encourage and advance the music career of every individual artiste.
As one of the few artistes who took advantage of social media to publish his hit songs, he commended the internet for contributing to the establishment of his career.
“The internet is the future. The internet gives grounds for everyone to shine and make a name for themselves. It’s a great source to use to boost whatever you’re doing, and I’m thankful I could make it through the internet.”
The rapper has released a new song titled “Animal” which features singer and songwriter, Dayonthetrack. He is also booked to perform at some events, including this year’s Afrochella, which happens on December 27.
As to when he is going to organise his own show, he said, “Next year.”
The country’s favourite insurer Hollard Ghana, with subsidiaries Hollard Insurance and Hollard Life Assurance, has renovated the 5-kindergarten classroom block at the Al-Waleed Basic Comprehensive School, Nima, at the cost of Ghs 200,000 as part of its social impact efforts to give back to society.
Hollard came to the rescue after the block had been in a severe state of disrepair decades after it was constructed by Prince Al-Waleed of Saudi and Former President Kufuor.
The renovation
Hollard conducted structural refurbishments of the roof, ceiling, floors, windows, and doors. The company also revamped the toilets, and library while creating a sick-bay.
They did these repairs in addition to painting the block of four classrooms, and the dining hall.
The company fixed the courtyard playing ground with AstroTurf, among others, to create a more conducive environment that is supportive and safe for the children in preschool.
Handing over
The kindergarten block was officially out-doored by Patience Akyianu, Group CEO, Hollard Ghana, assisted by Daniel Boi Addo, MD, Hollard Insurance; Nashiru Iddrisu, MD, Hollard Life Assurance; Cynthia Ofori- Dwumfuo, Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs; Nuhu Will Mohammed, Deputy Director, Management and supervision.
Martin Kpadenu, Headmaster of Al- Waleed Basic School, some school officials, Hollard staff, and selected school children were also present.
Speaking on the essence of the project, the Group CEO of Hollard Ghana, Patience Akyianu, explained that the company does well by doing good in the society in which it operates.
“As a purposeful company that aims to enable more people to create and secure a better future, we are glad to contribute meaningfully to our community. We believe every child deserves a safe and clean learning environment to develop their skills. We noticed the AL Waleed kindergarten block needed urgent attention and came to their rescue to aid teaching and learning for the children. As we hand over the renovated facility, we are happy that each child passing through kindergarten at the Al-Waleed Basic school will be safe and have access to quality childcare and education”.
“We are proud to say that our staff of Hollard, fondly called Hollardites, painted the school and donated books and toys to the children. This goes to show that we do truly care.”, she added.
Appreciation
The Director for Ayawaso East Municipal Director of Education, Miss Adisa Tassa, and the headmaster, commended Hollard Ghana for their thoughtfulness and support to the school.
“We are thankful to Hollard Ghana for honouring Ayawaso East with this gesture. I want to say a big thank you to the management of Hollard Ghana for putting our children first and offering them a great learning centre. Last year, the insurance group gave a facelift to the Nima Cluster of School’s ICT lab, which falls under my jurisdiction. I’m confident at Hollard will continue to do more impactful projects to help the community”, she said.
About Hollard Ghana
The country’s favorite insurance group is Hollard Ghana, with subsidiaries Hollard Insurance and Hollard Life Assurance.
The group combines its deep local knowledge of the market having previously operated in Ghana for 25 years as Metropolitan Insurance with the world-class expertise of an international insurance brand in 18 countries across the world.
With feet firmly planted on Ghanaian soil but headquartered in South Africa, Hollard delivers innovative insurance solutions customized to the unique risks Ghanaians face. Hollard offers various life and general insurance products including funeral, personal accident, motor, business, travel, home, and more; and can be reached via the following means: 0501603967 (Hollard Insurance) and 0501533698 (Hollard Life).
Beyond various nationwide office branches and Hollard 2U franchise shops, Ghanaians can find Hollard at Shell Fuel Station Welcome Shops, Melcom stores and online at www.hollard.com.gh and www.jumia.com.gh for all their insurance needs.
The January transfer window is almost upon us and you can follow every move and done deal for all 20 Premier League clubs right here with LiveScore.
The transfer window opens on Sunday, January 1 and will run all the way up to its official close at 11pm on Tuesday, January 31.
West Ham and Nottingham Forest are among the Premier League clubs who have started shopping early.
The Irons have confirmed that a deal has been agreed to sign Brazilian defender Luizão, 20, from Sao Paulo.
The promising young centre-back’s move will become official on January 1, subject to international clearance, with a contract agreed up to the summer of 2026.
It is likely that he will spend the rest of this season finding his feet in the development squad under Mark Robson.
Nottingham Forest fans have already had a sneak peek of another Brazilian import, Gustavo Scarpa, whose move to the City Ground becomes official on January 1 when his present contract with Palmeiras expires.
The attacking midfielder, who turns 29 in January, has been allowed to make some cameo appearances in Forest’s mid-season friendlies and set up the winning goal for Emmanuel Dennis in a 2-1 victory over Valencia.
Cody Gakpo could be on the move from PSV Eindhoven
The World Cup has pushed a few names forward as clubs eye reinforcements who could boost their title chase or battle against relegation.
PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo, 23, was utilised as a striker by the Netherlands and scored in all three of their group games.
The Dutch club look resigned to losing their versatile forward, who has scored nine goals in 14 Eredivisie games this season with a further 12 assists.
PSV director of football Marcel Brands said: “Amounts have not been discussed, but if the right club comes in, Cody would like to go.
“It must be a record transfer for PSV.”
Another young goal-getter who grabbed the headlines was Portugal’s Goncalo Ramos.
Eyebrows were raised when the 21-year-old Benfica striker replaced Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal’s line-up for the round of 16 game with Switzerland.
Ramos scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 win but is very much a part of Benfica’s future plans and has already contributed 14 goals in 21 games for his table-topping Primeira Liga club.
There were some casualties in Qatar too. Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus has had surgery on a knee problem after suffering medial ligament damage during Brazil’s group stage showdown with Cameroon.
His long-term absence may prompt Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to seek a replacement as the Premier League leaders chase their first title win since 2003-04.
Chelsea are another club who may feel the need to invest in a forward after Armando Broja, 21, ruptured knee ligaments during a 1-0 mid-season friendly loss to Aston Villa in Abu Dhabi.
A 40-year-old woman has died after a Toyota Tundra vehicle veered off the road and ran into her nearby shop in Buokrom Estate Junction in Kumasi.
Mena Ama was selling in her makeshift shop, with her nine-year-old son when the car smashed the structure reducing it to rubbles.
The petty trader died shortly after being rushed to the Manhyia Hospital while her son currently battles for his life at the Manhyia Hospital.
The Tundra vehicle with registration number DV 2575 was moving through the Obofo street curve in Buokrom Estate, where victims were stationed.
Eyewitnesses told LuvFM that the Tundra vehicle was moving at a top speed and smashed the wooden structure which collapsed on 40-year-old Mena Ama and her nine-year-old son.
The deceased hit her head on the ground and bled profusely. She died on the spot.
Sister of the deceased, Bernice Wiredu who saw it all describes the incident as horrible.
Louis Essaun is one of the victims who narrowly escaped death in the accident.
He is receiving treatment at the Manhyia Hospital.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the Toyota Tundra was occupied by a driver, and three other persons are believed to be in their early 20s.
Worried residents are demanding justice for the deceased.
The two main suspects [males] are currently in police custody for preliminary investigations.
The 2023 edition of the tournament will be held in Algeria.
The team has been camping at the Ghanaman Centre of Excellence at Prampram for the past two weeks as part of the build-up to the biennial showpiece.
The Black Galaxies are expected to play a number of high-profile International friendlies during their stay in Egypt in readiness for the tournament which kicks off on Friday, January 13, 2022.
Ghana will be making a record 4th CHAN appearance having played in the tournament in 2009, 2011 and 2014 in Cote D’Ivoire, Sudan and South Africa respectively.
The Black Galaxies are housed in Group C alongside Madagascar, Sudan and Morocco.
The team will stay in Cairo for 18 days before they head to Algiers for the tournament.
Meanwhile, the head coach for the side, Annor Walker has announced a 25-man squad for the pre-camping.
Below is the travelling squad:
Goalkeepers
Abdulai Iddrisu, Ibrahim Danlad, William Essu
Defenders
Augustine Randolph, Augustine Agyapong, Dennis Korsah, Benjamin Abaidoo Konadu Yiadom, Henry Ansu, Kojo Addai, Sherif Mohammed, Solomon Adomako
Midfielders
Razak Kassim, Dominic Nsobila, Gladson Awako, David Abagna, Sylvester Simba
Wingers
Jonah Attuquaye, Evans Osei Wusu, Bright Adjei, Kwame Otu
Strikers
Daniel Afriyie Barnieh, Kofi Kordzi, Razak Yusif, Augustine Boakye
Firdaus Iddirus, popularly known as Shatta Bandle, has come under intense criticism on social media over a recent video that has gone viral.
In the said video, he was captured spraying Ghana cedis on his baby, who is believed to be less than 6 months old.
The baby could be described as being in an uncomfortable state as his entire body was covered with money.
In the latter part of the video, the child is seen struggling beneath the heap of cash on him.
On the back of this, some internet users have called on the Ghana Police Service to arrest and warn the internet sensation about his conduct, which they have described as “child abuse.”
Reacting to the video, internet users have called for the arrest and cautioning of Shatta Bandle, as they believe his actions could have suffocated and killed the baby.
A section of them also called on the government to seize custody of the baby from Shatta Bundle because they believed his actions would have detrimental effects on the child.
Shatta Bandle and his wife tied the knot in September 2022 days after his then fiancee gave birth.
The National Peace Council (NPC) has said the feat achieved by Ghana as the second most peaceful country in Africa and the first in West Africa in the 2022 Global Peace Index Report ranking was not achieved in a “vacuum”.
It has therefore expressed gratitude to “God for his mercies on the government and people of Ghana for keeping the country through, a rather challenging year.”
In an end of year message issued by the Chairman of the NPC, Rev Dr Ernest Adu Gyamfi, the Peace Council said the feat was achieved through “collective efforts, as a people, determined to sustain our peace and democracy.”
It however, expressed worry over recent happenings, particularly, chieftaincy disputes in some parts of the country in the last few days, that have the potential to derail the gains of peace and stability of Ghana.
“It is of concern to the National Peace Council that in December 2022 alone, Ghana has recorded fatalities in Bawku in the Upper East Region, Battor in the Volta Region and Buipe in the Savannah Region leading to injuries, and loss of lives and properties.”
“The Council wishes to call on all sides of the feuding parties in these conflicts to cease fire, in the spirit of the season and seek nonviolent ways to address their grievances.
In the Saturday incident, the victims were reportedly killed in fresh attacks in Bawku in the Upper East Region, according to reports.
Sources have said at least two more people have also been critically wounded and are receiving treatment in the hospital.
The shootings reportedly occurred at a suburb widely believed to be inhabited by people who do not belong to any of the factions involved in the chieftaincy dispute.
The police in Bawku have confirmed some killings but yet to give details.
Ghana rapper and Afrocentric artiste, M.anifest has indicated that his latest project dubbed, “The E.P.ilogue” reflects his vision of escalating his music to the rest of the world.
The Award-winning Ghanaian rap artiste who previously released his critically-acclaimed “Madina To The Universe” album reiterated that the EP released this year comes as an extension of the album.
M.anifest in an interview with Y107.9 FM’s Akosua Hanson on the Ylounge indicated that the project was an intentional effort to resonate his sound beyond the continent.
“This was intentional because the EP was just the continuation of Madina to the Universe. So it had to be tied in but also a world of its own. You know we’re talking about universes we had to expand because the universe is big and very vast. So we couldn’t just do a snap of it,” he said.
Speaking on the brain behind the cover art of both projects, he furthered, “So one has me in full travel mode in Madina to the Universe, the original. I was in full Okada meet NASA mode while the EP is just the rider having arrived in a different part of the universe, more psychedelic vibe more radiance. So it’s just still part of the travel. The journey continues. That’s all about it.”
M.anifest’s six-track project includes star-studded collaborations from world-renowned artistes from Ghana to Lagos through to the U.S. Notable names included in the credits are Anik Khan, M.I Abaga, WavyPae, Alee, and writer Nayyirah Waheed.
The wife of Ghanaian Dancehall performer, Stonewbwoy’s wife, Dr Louisa, swept patrons of the Bhim concert off their feet.
At the Bhim concert she proved to netizens that she isn’t just a mother and wife to the ‘Therapy’ artiste but knows how to have fun.
In a video on Instagram by blogger Flavour Tipz, the mother of two was captured in an off-shoulder emerald green top that she matched with lemon green palazzo pants while dancing with a friend.
The female doctor couldn’t stop at anything but go all out to have some fun at her husband’s just-ended Bhim Concert show at the Grand Arena on December 23, 2022.
Meanwhile, fans have rated Stonebwoy’s annual December performance as one of the top musical events this December, a success for the dancehall performer.
The award-winning singer was able to get top-tier Ghanaian performers, as well as Busy Signal from Jamaica and Costa Titch from South Africa, to perform for fans who attended the highly publicized 2022 version of his show.
After giving back-to-back performances of both new and old songs, to which the audience joined in, Stonebwoy closed the show.
Despite the several concerts that clashed with the Bhim Concert, Stonebwoy saw a significant increase in attendance and fan support.
Black Stars winger, Kamaldeen Sulemana has admitted that it has been frustrating with the injury setbacks in the ongoing season.
The 22-year-old attacker has struggled to make an impact due to his recurring injuries in the French Ligue 1.
The scintillating attacker was part of the Black Stars squad for the World Cup but played a peripheral role.
His performance last season in the French Ligue 1 attracted attention with this season promising to be greater, but he’s yet to deliver due to injuries.
The former FC Nordsjaelland attacker speaking in an interview said that he’s frustrated with his constant visit to the treatment room this season.
“I have been getting injuries and it’s frustrating,” he told TV3.
“I get frustrated a lot because when you are back on the track and all of a sudden you go back at the side again,” he added.
Kamaldeen Sulemana has made a total appearance of 14 and has scored three times in the ongoing season.
Management of Alisa Hotels has donated a number of items and cash worth ten thousand Ghana cedis to the Accra Psychiatry Hospital.
Among the items donated include towels, bottled water, canned drinks, and cooked food.
The move forms part of the company’s corporate social responsibilities and activities it has outlined ahead of the Christmas celebration.
Speaking to Citi News, the Group Sales and Marketing Manager of Alisa Hotels, Esperanza Adjei said, “a lot of people take their general well-being for granted but is something that we take very seriously at the hotel, so we thought it wise to impact that area of health”.
“That is why we chose the Accra Psychiatry hospital. We donated different items: food, meals for the patients, towels, and then also bedsheets, duvets to help improve conditions here at the hospital,” she added.
She explained that the company took the decision to promote mental health based on research it conducted on the stress levels of its staff.
Additionally, the Group Sales and Marketing Manager noted that the company has opened a new branch in Tema to extend its services to people living in the area.
Receiving the items on behalf of the hospital, the Specialist Psychiatrist, Dr. Naa Adoley Botchway said “Christmas is that time of the year that, we show love to others. The management, staff and patients of the Accra Psychiatry hospital are grateful to Alisa Hotel for thinking about us and taking the step to come and make this donation to the hospital.”
Dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale, was thrilled at this year’s Bhim concert.
He thus has sung the praises of his colleague, Stonebwoy, for putting on a great show and a thrilling performance at the 2022 edition of Bhimconcert.
The self-acclaimed dancehall king took to his official account on the Bird app, Twitter, to reveal that, for the first time, he secretly went to Stonebwoy’s Bhim Concert.
According to him, the show was top-notch, and Stonebwoy’s performance was simply world-class.
“Today be first time ago watch #BhimConcert2022 and nobody see me …That was world top class performance…Efo Eje agba gba,” Shatta Wale’s tweet read.
Reacting to the tweet, netizens expressed their admiration for Shatta Wale for showing love and acknowledging the greatness of Stonebwoy.
President Akufo-Addo has extended his felicitations to Ghanaians as Christians celebrate the birth of Christ.
Delivering his 2022 Christmas message on Saturday, he said, “on behalf of the government, my wife Rebecca –the First Lady, my daughters, grandchildren, my entire family, I send warm greetings and best wishes for the season to all Ghanaians.”
He prayed for the celebration to bring joy to all adding that 2023 should also usher in a new year of the blessing of growth.
President Akufo-Addo further urged Ghanaians to continue to draw divine inspiration and guidance from Christmas believing the economy will bounce back.
“Let us be prepared to make the sacrifices that will enable us to build a happy progressive Ghana we all desire,” he added.
He also entreated all and sundry to celebrate Christmas safely and responsibly.
President Akufo-Addo said as the season is to spread love, therefore, “If you are in a more fortune position, remember to lend a helping hand to those who are in need.”
“Let each one of us do our best to help feed those who are hungry and offer comfort to those in distress.”
He also called on Ghanaians to be hospitable during the yuletide.
“Let us provide the famous Ghanaian hospitality to the thousands and thousands of people who are visiting us this Christmas as our capital Accra and our country Ghana have become important global destinations for the Christmas holiday.”
“Let us take the time to gather, love, listen and learn from each other and to remember that with the help of God, we can overcome every challenge and achieve every future of which we can dream,” he added.
Fabinho believes Liverpool are well-placed to benefit from the World Cup break as Jurgen Klopp’s team look to chase down their Premier League rivals.
Having fallen narrowly short of winning a second title of the Premier League era when amassing 92 points last season, Liverpool now sit sixth in the top flight, seven points adrift of a top-four place.
Jurgen Klopp’s side did improve before the Premier League paused in November, and they could win three consecutive games for the first time this season when they visit Aston Villa on Boxing Day.
With France’s Ibrahima Konate the only Liverpool player to remain involved beyond the quarter-finals at the World Cup, Fabinho believes the break has benefited the Reds.
“It can be good,” he told the club’s website. “I hope this will be good for the team because, as I said before, our position in the Premier League is not the position that we wanted it to be.
“But this is the reality. We have to face it, we have to try to close the gap to the other teams and yes, game by game, try to play better and win.”
Fabinho played 45 minutes as the Reds returned to competitive action with a 3-2 EFL Cup defeat to Manchester City on Thursday, and he was pleased to resume with a game of that magnitude.
“In the game against City it was [important] to show that we are there, that we will fight with the best teams because we are one of the best teams as well,” Fabinho said.
“I hope that we will keep this level because we will need it. To have this as the first game back from the World Cup, I think, was good for us. The intensity of the game was really good.”
The Central Command of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has warned it will resist continuous attacks on its officers who are deployed on national assignments.
The Command is worried about the attacks on its troops who embark on operations to stop the activities of illegal miners (galamsey) within the Command’s area of responsibility.
“The posture of some locals towards troops on anti-galamsey operations has been a cause of worry to us. Some of these individuals wield deadly weapons against troops all in an attempt to frustrate troops in undertaking their legally function duty. It is my hope that the youth will be called upon by stakeholders to caution the youth to avoid any clash with the military and other security agencies”, says the Commanding Officer of the Central Command, Brigadier General Joseph Aphour.
He was speaking during the end-of-year gathering of the Central Command in the Ashanti Region.
For him, the Armed Forces remain resolute in the fight against illegal mining despite challenges the troops face on the grounds.
“It is worthy to note that, 2022 recorded the arrest of several illegal miners and seizure of their equipment. This goes to attest our readiness in dealing decisively with the perpetrators of this monstrous act.”
Brigadier General Joseph Aphour also cautioned officers to refrain from unprofessional conduct.
The Jaman South Municipal Assembly has disbursed support items to 71 Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs), including 41 females, at Drobo.
A total of ¢79,602 was spent on the beneficiaries in the areas of education, health, and business support.
While 39 people received support for medications, medical reviews, and surgeries, 14 were supported in tertiary, special, and basic schools.
Ten others received freezers (3), sewing machines (3), carpentry tools, hairdressing tools, and a block moulding machine, while eight beneficiaries had animal rearing (6), and other business support.
Andrews Bediako, Jaman South MCE
Municipal Chief Executive for Jaman South, Andrews Bediako, explained that the support disbursed to the beneficiaries on December 22, is the third batch for the year aimed to assist the physically challenged to work and be self-reliant.
For 2022, there have been 178 beneficiaries with a total of ¢200,007 spent.
He said, “If you look at, so far, what they have been doing with the items supplied to them, I think they have not disappointed the assembly and, for that matter, the government, and this will help reduce poverty”.
He particularly mentioned a beneficiary who was supported in the shoe and sandal manufacturing business and is doing marvellously well and therefore expects the current beneficiaries to make an impact with the support.
Some persons living with disabilities
“It is not only about the impact we are looking at, but at least we don’t want to see them on the streets begging for support. If that happens, then they are not making good use of the assembly’s support, but through our monitoring systems, they are doing well so far”, he stated.
He believes it will continue to urge the assembly to use the three per cent of their common fund to expand the scheme to benefit more PLWDS in the municipality.
The MCE, Andrews Bediako revealed that a collaborative program between the Government of Ghana and the World Bank, known as the “Safety Net Project” will complement other programs geared towards poverty eradication in 2023.
He explained that beneficiary communities would plant mangoes and coconut, where daily minimum wages would be paid to the targeted poor people who would work in the plantations and urged the PLWDs, who can, to get involved.
Isaac Baah, a physically challenged person
Isaac Baah, 36, a farmer at Adamsu, struggles to take care of himself, his wife, and three children after a car accident led to an amputated leg that has rendered him unable to walk on his own and work.
“I was working and living a normal life with my family until the accident, and life has been tough for me since then,” he said.
He added, “And to change my situation, I applied to the assembly two years ago for support to enable me to go into animal rearing so I could take care of my family”.
Daniel Owusu, Chairman, Physically Challenged Persons, Jaman South
Chairman for the Jaman South Physically Challenged Persons, Daniel Owusu, expressed worry about parents who feel shy about the conditions of their children such that they confine them in the house, making it difficult for support to reach them.
He said they would continue to engage such parents and involve the social welfare department in the situation and how to extend help to them.
Highly-rated Ghanaian singer, Kofi Kinaata says his latest banger is meant to inspire.
The artist has come forth again with another Christmas banger titled ‘Everyday’ (Essikafo Ammba Ntem) with production credits going to Two Bars.
The danceable song which is currently receiving massive airplay across major media outlets and streams on digital platforms has a touch of francophone beats and rhythms.
Talking to Kwami Sefa Kayi on the Kokrokoo Morning Show, Kofi Kinaata said his new song is meant to inspire people that living a good life is possible for everyone.
“This is a song we want to use to inspire ourselves that yes we can get there because it’s possible due to the fact that there are some people living that kind of life,” he said on Peace FM based in Accra.
He added as reported by Amansan Krakye of MyNewsGh.com: “Those who have made it big and are now living good will also dance with the song but when you see them dancing and you wish to be part of them unless you put in work before you can join.
He asserted “We want to encourage ourselves to do more but never give up because saying that you can’t find a piece of land to build is a poor man’s assertion”.
Real Madrid are confident they lead the race for the £100million-plus rated England midfielder’s signature, while Liverpool are also extremely keen.
But sources at the Etihad believe the opportunity to work with Guardiola will swing the Borussia Dortmund star’s decision in City’s favour.
Bellingham, 19, is also wanted by Manchester United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
Loan deals
Steve Parish admits Crystal Palace are more likely to make loan signings next month
Chairman Steve Parish hopes Crystal Palace will be able to freshen up their squad in January — but admits loan deals are the most likely option.
Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been linked with a temporary return to Selhurst Park, although Erik ten Hag has stressed the 25-year-old right-back remains part of his plans.
Speaking to Palace TV, Parish said: “The January window is hard. There are one or two things we would like to do, probably more loans than buys.
“We would really look to the summer to do anything major. We have a good squad. I think the players are very good and I think we have a good points tally.
“In January, it’s quite nice to freshen things up a bit if we can, look at some places we feel we can improve with the manager, so we are looking at situations there.”
A Presidential Staffer, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, says the Ho Airport is now a white elephant and that the under utilisation is causing financial loss to the state.
The facility was built by the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration.
According to the Director of Local Government, Decentralisation and Local and Rural Development at the presidency, a lot of people advised against the construction of the airport but the then government refused to listen and went ahead with its construction.
Mr Aboagye made this point to justify the National Cathedral project while speaking on the Key Points show on TV3 on Saturday, December 24, 2022.
“Where was the justification when we spent US$25 million to build the Ho Airport which is now a white elephant? US$25 million dollars was spent at the time the people of Ho did not have a market.
At the time the airport was going to be built a lot of people asked economic questions about why they were going to put the airport there.
“Togbe Afede advised that half of the money for the Ho Airport should be used to construct the road to Ho but he was not listened to and today, that Airport is a white elephant.”
He stressed “the Ho airport was built at a time this country had dumsor, this county had health insurance that was near collapse, this country at that had 88 districts without hospitals.
“The construction of the airport had economic value, the same way the cathedral has economic value.”
But Mr. Aboagye insists that the National Cathedral will have economic benefits to the State because it will be self-financing when completed.
Former Black Queens coach Isaac Paha says the Ghana Football Association don’t believe in continuity and this has contributed to the poor form of the female national team.
The Queens have been runners-up in three of the first five editions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon), having featured at three successive World Cups.
However, the team has failed to build on this success as the likes of Morocco, current Wafcon holders South Africa and Zambia have all invested hugely in women’s football, so leaving the Queens behind.
“The problem is that the authorities don’t believe in continuity,” Isaac Paha, Black Queens coach from 2004 to 2008, told BBC Sport Africa.
“Once you reach a certain level, they bring in another person to take over. As a coach, when you take a team and start preparing younger players to join, you realise you have a better opportunity to take them forward than a new coach.”
Ghana have not appeared at a World Cup finals since the 2007 World Cup.
Carlos was the man I had always dreamt about. I saw him in my thoughts, my sleep and whenever my eyes were opened, he was all I saw.
His dark skin sparkled like a starry night, ooh I call him my ebony black. Each time he said my name, Janet, I could feel the love he had for me.
On our usual evening strolls, when other men looked at me, he looked at them with a gaze which they immediately read as, back off- she is my wife.
You are wondering how I knew, ooh one of my several admirers told me so.
Carlos’ lips had the right words. There are days which I considered as bad, obviously, making me very frustrated. Upon return home he had the perfect words to make me smile again.
And oh! He was Dumelo’s height with a well-built body. His face was masculine, his facial hair perfectly blended with his dark brows marching his well-connected beard, to top it all, his face was smooth – what Ghanaian Gen Z’s call a “fine boy no pimples”.
He was all this and most importantly, a perfect gentleman. You might say because he is my husband, I will certainly have nothing but praises for him. Nevertheless, I can confidently say he is the reason my life looked and felt good.
I am sure you know that feeling when good things seem to be happening and you never want them to change -yes, that is the life I live now.
My life was not always this way, never in my wildest dream did I believe I could get married to a man I could talk to for hours, drink from the cup in his hands or lean back against and breathe.
Here is a quick story of my life before now.
At age 20, I was already looking like a mini Karshadian – perfect brown skin, no wrinkles, slender and of average height and very eloquent.
I carried myself with confidence, a great public speaker and naturally I walked like a professional model.
I was an adventurous, smart and good student who lived recklessly yet managed to emerge top of my class for three consecutive years of the Banking and Finance class at the university
Like most bad girls, I had two abortions for one of the two guys I dated whom I thought I loved. The guys were sweet, at least that is what my naive mind kept telling me.
On special days, my very first guy would go the extra mile to shower me with gifts. From the latest phones and dinner dates at fancy restaurants, to nights in luxury hotels which of course was my favorite of all. I called him Mr. Surprises.
I vividly remember telling him, “You are all I want,” (now I look back and laugh). After what seemed like a dream I never wanted to wake up from, were days I was treated as though I was non-existent.
He wouldn’t call neither would he return my calls because he was supposedly busy. Mr Surprises seemed available on special days or occasions- I wanted a deeper relationship. I got tired of waiting for special days to feel loved. Fortunately, I met a man in his early 30s.
Where my Mr Surprises fell short, he stood tall and exceled effortlessly. He called first thing in the morning and last at night. He had my attention. I was beginning to imagine our future together, of course, I took these thoughts to bed.
In my dream we were already married with kids, it looked so real… I woke up on the morrow very excited especially because we planned to spent some time together over dinner.
That evening at the restaurant, his phone kept ringing severally from the same number. I noticed he got uneasy at the sight of the call and quickly excused himself to answer it. Upon return to the table, I saw fear in his eyes.
I could not feign ignorance, so I quizzed and he told me his daughter had an accident adding that she was in the hospital. At the mention of daughter, I froze! Yo…ur, you..r what!
He looked at me sternly and said let’s talk about it later, let me take you back to your hotel. I still love you.
I quickly found my voice and replied “you can go, I will find my way.” He paid the bill and left Ghs1000 on the table, kissed me on the forehead and said, “I am sorry,” then walked away.
His words shuttered and broke me to the core. There were so many questions. Why did he make me feel as though I was most important and that there was no one but me in his life. I can’t believe I am a fool; I can’t believe I couldn’t read through the lines.
Come to think of it, I was still dating Mr Surprises yet l accepted another’s proposal. I think I am the same as the married man…well if he makes me happy and fills the gaps in my life, what’s the use. I better manage him that way.
The next day he came to my hostel at dawn. I quickly got dressed and followed him to a breakfast restaurant. We sat to discuss the way forward but of course, I didn’t tell him I had Mr. Surprises in my life.
My journey with the married man went on and ooh he worked hard to prove himself. He made sure to be there for me. Sometimes, he would take me to the campus, send lunch and gifts.
One morning, I heard a knock on my hostel door, I knew it was the married man because it was just like him. I got all excited and rushed towards the door with my face full of smiles as I turned the nod I noticed it was his wife! Why on earth will she be at my door and how did she get her. I knew she was his wife because I had seen her pictures on his phone.
The lady started speaking on top of her voice and warned that I leave her husband adding that she was pregnant. After that sentence I couldn’t hear anything she said, I was also pregnant for him. As I stared at her, she became blurry because my concentration shifted to Mr Surprises, I looked away for a while and looked at him again only to realise that he was actually staring at me. He walked up to the lady to apologize and promised that I would leave her husband.
I was too ashamed to utter any word so I watched Mr Suprises with one question running through my brain, “how did I get here?”
To my utmost surprise, his first question was “why will you cheat on me with a married man?”
I still had not found my voice to reply. He forced me to call the married man to end everything which I obliged. After all, I still had him.
After what appeared to me as hours of endless conversation, he said showed me the ring he intended to propose to me with… then I knew, I had messed up at big time. I shamefully went on my knees to apologize but he told me, it would be difficult to marry me because I had broken his trust.
That’s how he ended everything. I watched him stand to his feet and leave my room. I cried my eyes out.
My married boyfriend would not return my calls neither would Mr Surprises. Jezz, I saw my life flash before my eyes. I was pregnant, single and in my final year of school.
Suicidal thoughts? Yes!
What was I going to do? Abortion, definitely. I gathered my savings and underwent my second abortion for the same person, the married man.
I gathered my depressed self out of the hospital bed to the hospital chapel to pray.
“God, I know I don’t deserve a second chance but please save me from myself. I have nothing else. All those who said they loved me have left. I don’t want to use my own hands to take my life, help me. Amen”
I picked my sunglasses and headed to the door before I knew it I bumped into someone. Out of shame and disgust for myself, I quickly apologized and walked off.
He chased after me and as I was about entering my car he introduced himself. All I thought that moment was “what do I care about your name?”
Leave me alone. All the while, I had not looked at him because I was in no mood to go through another man drama.
I told him, I was Janet and quickly drove off.
Two months into my service, I decided to treat myself to a nice dinner. After work I went to this fancy restaurant as I ate my meal a gentleman walked to my table and called my name out, Janet.
I looked at him and asked myself, “where do I know you?”
Before I realised, he sat down and ordered a meal. He talked about himself asked about me, though I was reserved that night I liked his company. He paid for my meal though.
That was Carlos, I enjoyed his company and a year later we became great friends. I even had the confidence to tell him of my terrible past expecting him to walk out on me, but he held me by the hand and asked that I hugged him and whispered into my ears “all is well”.
Two months down the line, he asked that I become his girlfriend and of course I said yes.
A month later, he asked that I marry him. I told him, I wasn’t worthy of his love because he was too perfect and I didn’t deserve it.
We got married and I can tell you it was the best decision I made. My life has never been the same afterwards. He loved me so much and I could tell it was genuine
If you ask me, I don’t deserve the kind of love he shallowed on me.
Carlos is a representation of the love Christ has for you. No matter what you have been through, no matter what you have done, he is always there to help you.
To pick you up from the grass and change your name like Carlos did mine.
As we celebrate Jesus whose birth brought joy to the world, remember that you are greatly loved and for everyone who is loved, you are expected to show love.
Extend the same love to others.
Merry Christmas
Remember that you are loved.
–
Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, business, events and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental
The 26-year-old played a key role in helping the Atlas Lions reach the semi-final of the tournament, becoming the first African country to achieve the feat.
Amrabat, who features for Serie A side Fiorentina has been linked with a move to several clubs including Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal and other European clubs like Barcelona and Juventus.
“With all the respect due to Fiorentina, Amrabat should play for one of the top 10 clubs in the world,” Regragui said during an interview with Morocco’s TV Arryadia as quoted by DailyMail.
“Amallah and Ounahi will surely find better clubs and the same is true of Ziyech who proved what he can do. He should be a starter at Chelsea.”
Amrabat has made 18 appearances across all competitions for Fiorentina this season.
RnB singer Akon says his much-delayed plans for Akon City – an African metropolis on the Senegalese coast – are “100,000% moving”.
Although goats are currently grazing on the site, he says that critics will look “super stupid” in the future.
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, the Smack That singer also assured supporters waiting for refunds from his Token of Appreciation cryptocurrency campaign that they will receive their money back, even if he has to pay them out of his own pocket.
Widely known for his string of noughties chart hits Akon, who was born in the United States but partly raised in Senegal, announced two ambitious projects in 2018 that were supposed to represent the future of African society.
The first was a reported $6bn (£5bn) city with boldly curvaceous skyscrapers. It was to run on the second initiative – a brand new cryptocurrency called Akoin.
But several years on both projects have faced difficulties and delays and the site where the city is proposed to be built remains a waste ground.
Image caption,Akon claims the city will be sustainable and provide employment for young people
On an overcast day in September 2020 Akon, dressed in a powder blue suit, strode confidently onto a dusty red patch of disused land. There to meet him was a gaggle of journalists from around the world who had assembled for the hitmaker’s latest launch: a supercity packed with stunning architecture.
Local people clapped as a veil was pulled back on a plaque marking the future building site. But two years on the question of whether the plans will ever come to fruition divides communities in the region.
“We thought we could work on it but at this pace, maybe our children will,” one resident of the area tells the BBC. “We remain hopeful for the project. We hope that our children will stay here to work.”
Another resident says they no longer believe in the project before adding “when it comes, if it finds us here, we’ll see how we can contribute”.
Akon City was initially compared in the press with Wakanda, the amazing African metropolis featured in the Black Panther movies and comic books. Phase one of the city containing roads, a campus, a mall, residences, hotels, a police station, a school, a waste facility and a solar power plant was supposed to be complete by the end of 2023. But after multiple delays, little on the ground appears to have changed since the launch ceremony.
“I’m only here in the presence of goats” local journalist Borso Tall tells me. “It’s completely empty… no sign of building just a long line of green trees and red earth.”
Image caption,The site where Akon City is planned is empty bar the foundation stone which was unveiled in 2020
But Akon remains adamant that his ambitious plans will still be realised.
When we meet in central London, he admits that with hindsight “I would have gotten more things in place before promoting it.”
He also blames Covid, which he says meant “everything would be pushed back two years”.
However, the world was already in the grip of the pandemic when he held the ceremony promoting Akon City to international media in August 2020.
“I plan to retire in that city,” he says confidently. “I don’t like to use the word the king of the city. But that’s what it will turn out to be.”
“We’re trying to get the city built as fast as possible,” he says, adding that he has a lease on the land for the next 50 years and that his project has “been co-signed by the current president”.
The Senegalese government’s tourist board SAPCO recently reaffirmed their commitment to the project.
“We believe in Akon city and we are all supporting Akon so the Akon city will come to life,” said Me Aliou Sow, CEO of SAPCO. “It will attract tourists and investors in the region and SAPCO is fully committed to the success of this project.”
Akon says he has changed both the construction firms and architects he is working with on the project, adding that his new partners understand Africa, the terrain and have “real credibility globally”. His overall goals remain ambitious.
“We want the big skyscrapers. My goal is to try to build something that people deem impossible in Africa, right?”
Image caption,The most recent architectural drawings of the city, pictured here, have fewer skyscrapers than previous versions
Several celebrity finance websites estimate Akon’s net worth to be between $60-80m, leading some to question where the money will come from for a project of this size. His team claim they have an international consortium in place who will fund it with private investment.
Akon said that excavation work on the site will finally start before the end of the year, adding that further announcements will be made at a youth centre he has built for residents in a local village. Construction work on Akon City he acknowledges “is yet to be fully calendered”.
The initial plans for Akon City, dubbed it “Crypto City” and in August 2020 Akon said the city’s financial infrastructure would be “built off” his own Akoin cryptocurrency. But the cryptocurrency has been plagued by its own delays and struggles.
“It wasn’t being managed properly,” he concedes. “I take full responsibility for that.”
Before launching his Akoin cryptocurrency, the Akoin website announced a pre-sale opportunity called the Token of Appreciation (TOA) campaign.
The campaign was announced over two years before the Akoin cryptocurrency itself was available. It was a fundraiser to cover the costs of launching Akoin later down the line.
Money sent for TOAs was framed as a “donation” on the Akoin TOA website page but there was a special incentive to put money in during this period. Contributors were told that for every $1 they put in they would receive up to four Tokens of Appreciation which would later convert to proper Akoin.
“I did genuinely believe in the ecosystem that they were looking to build,” says Marcus (not his real name) who lives in the UK. “Every now and again I’d put in a few thousand pounds.”
The Token of Appreciation campaign concluded in October 2019. The official Akoin Twitter feed claimed it had raised $290,000. Over two years later TOA donors were presented with a choice in the official Akoin Telegram group.
Image caption,Akoin’s early investors were initially excited by Akon’s plans for a futuristic African city
“We’re now able to give TOA holders a choice,” wrote the admin. “Receive a refund of their original donation or receive an Akoin MasterCard which will have the value of their initial donation.”
Some TOA donors have decided to wait for their promised rewards. For now they have notice of a Token of Appreciation but it doesn’t have any functionality. Others have tried to claim their money back.
“I didn’t ask for the refund, they offered the refunds,” notes Marcus, whose faith in the project was starting to flag. “The refund was meant to come a few weeks later. We are now over a year. And we’re back at the same situation we were years ago with the lack of communication and now everybody’s up in arms.”
Marcus is not alone. In the Akoin Telegram groups I’ve spoken to a number of other people around the world who say that they have asked for refunds but are still waiting to receive their money back.
“It’s extremely frustrating,” says Reggie, an American living in Asia who also donated to the campaign. “Yeah, I’ve gotten upset about this, you know, a number of times.”
I put cases like Marcus’ and Reggie’s to Akon, who denied knowing that donors to the Akoin campaign were still waiting for refunds. He claims he will get involved in rectifying the situation until TOA donors are happy.
“Even if I gotta go in my own pocket,” he adds. “I’m dead serious. I would do a world tour just to pay them all back.”
Akon: ‘I would do a world tour’ to pay back crypto investors
The Akoin cryptocurrency itself launched on Bitmart in September 2021. Its value at that time was £0.23 ($0.28) but it has fallen significantly since, preceding a crash in the wider cryptocurrency market. Today Akoin’s price is just £0.01.
There have also been questions over whether it would even be legal for Akoin to operate as the primary payment method at Akon City.
The current legal tender in Senegal is the CFA franc, which is regulated and issued by Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), which share the money. Yahoo Finance reported last year that the “institution warned of the dangers of adopting cryptocurrency and termed it illegal”. We approached the BCEAO to comment on the legality of a city running on cryptocurrency but they didn’t respond.
“Those are a lot of the concerns even I have,” acknowledges Akon. “I want to make sure that however we involve crypto within the city is in a way that it lines up with all the rules and regulations.”
So will ordinary transactions in Akon’s proposed “Crypto City” still take place with his own crypto? It seems unclear. “We’ll have it figured out by the time the city’s up, that’s for sure,” he promises.
But after two years of waiting, not everyone is convinced.
“I think a lot of us we’ve done our research but it panned out like nothing is going on,” says Reggie. “I would like to get my funds back and just walk away”.
Kofi Kinaata christened Martin King Arthur, a popular Ghanaian artiste, has advised drivers to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol to prevent accidents this festive season.
“When you take in alcohol, please park your vehicle because after drinking you will get vim that you are the fastest driver in the world like Michael Schumacher,” he said.
He continued “Park your vehicle somewhere safe and find another means to transport you safely home when you drink alcohol.
“Because when you were drinking God wasn’t involved so be careful else you’ll say that God should take over the steering wheel when you are drunk,” he added as listened by Amansan Krakye of MyNewsGh.com
Speaking on the Kokrokoo Morning Show on Accra-based Peace FM hosted by Kwame Sefa Kayi, the ‘Confession’ hitmaker said last days are dangerous so everyone must take care.
“I extend greetings to everyone to be very careful of whatever we are doing because last days are dangerous so we all must take good care of ourselves,” he advised.
The Executive Director of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Foundation, Dr. Dominic Eduah, says the local scholarship programme will offer 1,000 scholarships to Ghanaians in 2023.
Speaking at this year’s end-of-year media engagement in Takoradi, Dr. Dominic Eduah, said the GNPC Foundation Board of Trustees has already ordered for the local scholarship portal that was suspended for some reasons to be opened in January for qualified applicants to apply.
“Let me announce that the Board of Trustees of the Foundation has given clearance for the local scholarship portal to be opened next year for eligible needy but brilliant students to apply. I think this announcement will bring to finality to the numerous questions most parents have been asking staff and management of the Foundation at any given opportunity”, he said.
In addition to the Foundation previously offering 5,550 scholarships to brilliant but needy Ghanaians to pursue various undergraduate, post-graduate, and PhD programmes in Ghanaian tertiary institutions, he also said the Ghanaian youth in the informal sector has not been left out.
“Through the Economic Empowerment Unit of the Foundation, 2,450 artisans from both technical and domestic trades were supported to write their National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI) Proficiency examinations. Four hundred of these artisans have been equipped with start-up tools to commence their artisanal journeys while the remaining artisans are scheduled to receive their start-up tools in 2023. These artisans were from rural and peri-urban communities in the Western, Western North, Central, Eastern, Greater Accra and Ashanti regions. Let me announce that all artisans who have successfully passed the NVTI Proficiency I & II examinations in 2022 are to receive their start-up tools within the first quarter of 2023. Names of all successful artisans will be published on the Foundations’ website for verification. Training programmes have also been earmarked for fishermen and other small and medium enterprises next year”, he added.
Recounting the contributions of the GNPC Foundation to government’s infrastructural project, Dr. Eduah said a lot of successes have already been recorded in the provision of water, school, sanitary and sporting infrastructure.
“The GNPC Foundation, through its Environment and Social Amenities Unit, has over the past 5 years sponsored the construction of 702 borehole facilities in rural and peri-urban communities. A considerable number of these boreholes are in the northern parts of the country. We have also funded the construction of educational facilities such as 141 classroom blocks for use in basic and senior high schools, 11 dormitory blocks, and 8 science laboratories for senior high schools. In addition, the Foundation has funded the construction of 86 sanitary facilities in communities, schools, and markets across the country and 32 community pitches have been developed into standard astro turf facilities across Ghana for our youth. Most of these projects have been completed and handed over to the beneficiaries, while the remaining projects are at advanced levels of completion. Let me say that measures have been put in place to ensure that next year most ongoing projects such as classroom blocks, boreholes, astro turfs, dormitories and sanitary facilities in various communities will be completed and handed over for use by the beneficiaries”, he noted.
Dr. Dominic Eduah thanked the media for their support.
The Minister of Trades and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, says enhancing agricultural production is the surest way of reviving Ghana’s ailing economy.
He is hopeful that, with policies such as the 1D1F Enable Youth Initiative, government is on course to boost the economy through agriculture.
“Agriculture without industrialization is not sustainable. That is why we have been struggling with our agricultural sector for many years because we are unable to process what we process and produce. So the industrialization aspect of this program is going to further enhance and deepen agricultural productivity and that is very important for the industrialization of our country”, he stressed.
Alan Kyerematen was speaking at the official launch of 1D1F Enable Youth Initiative in Accra on Friday.
There, the Minister indicated that the programme would help create sustainable jobs and also enhance agricultural production to boost the country’s economy.
“It is going to bring our youth to support our country’s macro-stability effort. If we are able to replicate what we are doing with our youth-owned and managed companies, it means that, we will be able to reduce the amount of foreign exchange that we are currently spending on importing almost everything that we can produce.”
“At the same time, we are going to enhance our capacity to be able to export more to earn foreign exchange which is the only way to stabilize the local currency. If you are thinking in the long term of avoiding what we are going through today, it is through initiatives of this nature”, Alan Kyerematen emphasized.
He also revealed that the government’s newly launched 1D1F Enable Youth Initiative will tackle youth unemployment by creating 16,000 jobs for the youth in the country.
About 1.74 million (13.4 percent) of the total working population of 13 million in the age bracket of 15 years and above were unemployed in the first quarter of the year, a study conducted by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) revealed.
The high level of unemployment in the country has been described by many as a national security threat.
However, Mr Kyerematen said the unemployment in the country will be drastically reduced through the introduction of the 1D1F Enable Youth Initiative.
According to him, the program will directly create employment for 3,000 youth and over 16,000 indirect jobs for unemployed persons across the country.
“It is an uncontestable fact, that one of the problems confronting our country is how we deal with youth unemployment. This particular initiative will contribute to employing almost 3000 youth. It is also going to contribute indirectly to creating over 16, 000 jobs.”
After arriving in Cairo, Egypt, the Black Galaxies are anticipated to hold their first training session today to begin preparing for the 2023 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship(CHAN) event, which will take place in Algeria next month.
25 players, including Technical staff and management members left Accra on December 24 and arrived in Cairo earlier this morning.
Coach Annor Walker’s side have been camping at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram since November and will step up preparations during their 18-days stay in Cairo.
The team will play a number of friendly matches in Cairo to smooth out the rough edges before travelling to Algeria for the biennial championship which will commence on January 13.
Ghana’s Black Galaxies are in Group C alongside Madagascar, Sudan and Morocco in Group C.
The Black Galaxies who have been absent from the tournament since 2014 will announce their return in their opening match against Madagascar on January 15 in Constantine, Algeria.
As someone who has been both the victim and the perpetrator of cheating at large, I feel I’m somewhat of an expert when it comes to this subject.
I’ve seen it all. I’ve done it all. I’ve hurt enough people, burned enough bridges, and felt karma come right back and bite me in the ass many times. So, I get it. It sucks for everyone involved.
There’s nothing quite like the exquisite agony of finding out someone cheated on you. There’s also no experience exactly akin to cheating on someone.
Sure, you feel guilty, but mostly you’re acting out. You’re not utterly destroying the relationship you have with someone for a quick screw — you’re doing it to screw yourself.
If you cheat on someone, you want it to be over with that person. You may not know it. You may not even want to accept it as you’re reading these words. It may not feel that way at all.
If you’re the person who has been cheated on, you may not want to believe this either. You may want to save what you have. You want comfort.
That’s not what this is, unfortunately.
Cheating is not just a mistake, a momentary lapse of judgment, or a spark of passion that quickly burned out as soon as it was lit. Cheating is a byproduct of internal, long-term chaos. At the heart of cheating are personal insecurity and self-loathing.
Cheating isn’t about sex or passion. Obviously, there can be passion involved in cheating, because cheating is totally subjective and happens in a variety of different circumstances.
Whether it was a drunken hookup after one too many Jameson and gingers or the culmination of months of fiery flirtation and eventual planning to have an affair, the root of the act is not desired.
What really makes people cheat is unhappiness with themselves. It comes from deep-seated personal anguish and self-hatred. You think you are bad, so you do bad things. You get caught cheating, you deserved it because you’re bad.
You can desperately want the person you cheat with, but that want itself comes from your own insecurity and discontent.
Cheating is more about the person who cheated.
Those who get cheated on, more often than not, blame themselves. When I was the person who was cheated on, I thought I wasn’t good enough. I figured I was a crappy girlfriend and so I deserved to be with someone who didn’t love me enough not to stray.
Having been on both sides, I know that cheating is far less about the person you’re cheating on than it is about you.
You’re compensating for something and trying to make yourself feel whole in the face of self-loathing. No amount of love from someone else can make you feel whole, so you try to ruin your own life by doing messed up things.
When someone cheats, it’s because they don’t know what else to do. For those who cheat, there is a feeling of stifled terror in our current partnership that comes with cheating.
It may or may not be directly related to what’s happening in our relationships. You think you’re drowning, you become desperate, and with desperation comes actions that have cataclysmic results.
It obviously isn’t your fault if your partner cheats on you, but cheating is not *the* problem in the relationship — it is the end result of a combination of other problems.
People who are happy don’t cheat on their partners.
We often act out when we’re unhappy. When we’re unhappy, we act out; we do things that are not good for us. It is so much easier to go out and sleep with someone else than it is to confront the real problems we face in our relationships.
It is reckless and careless. Mostly, it is an unwillingness to put in the effort to fix our relationship problems, coupled with a supreme cowardice to just end things with the person we’re dating.
If we really cared about the relationship, we wouldn’t cheat; we’d go to couple’s therapy, or talk it out, and do everything we could to make things better.
Cheaters are selfish and immature people, no matter their age.
Here is the real truth: You cannot cheat on someone you love. I’ve written about this a hundred times and it NEVER stops being completely true. You simply cannot cheat on someone you love.
OK, you might love your partner, but you do not love them enough. If you did, you wouldn’t do something like this.
Cheating may seem like it’s all about you, but you’re hurting someone who supposedly means everything to you. If this person meant everything to you, you wouldn’t do something so awful to them. You’d have more respect than that.
In my opinion, cheating is the end of a relationship. You need to have trust and respect in healthy, stable partnerships. Once someone cheats, all semblance of those two critical, baseline elements is lost forever.
Following the harmattan season, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) is advising motorists and motorbike riders to adopt important safety precautions to reduce road fatalities.
The NRSA’s public relations representative Pearl Adusu Sateckla noted that the season is known to reduce visibility, particularly for drivers when the weather turns gloomy, hence must drive with caution.
“This season comes with foggy weather, blurred vision and dust collection. So drivers and motor riders should all be careful. They shouldn’t drive too early in the morning or late at night. They should check their light. It should be on when it’s hazy. The windscreen should be clean and the wiper working.
Some guidelines drivers should follow while on the road to avoid road crashes, which may lead to deaths and injuries;
Leave a reasonable distance between you and the other vehicle.
Exercise patience.
Keep windows and mirrors clean.
Avoid excessive speeding.
Avoid unnecessary overtaking.
Use fog or driving lights (if well-equipped).
Use your low beam.
Take note of traffic and construction signs.
Use the edge line of the road as a guide.
Use advance warning triangles when your vehicle breaks down and call for immediate removal from the road.
Pedestrians are advised to wear reflective clothing to improve visibility to reduce the risk of getting knocked down by a vehicle.
Road contractors should ensure constant watering of untarred roads.
The above precautionary measures are believed to help reduce road crashes, if not eradicate them.
Black Princesses skipper Evelyn Badu has disclosed that his absence affected the performance of her teammates at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica.
Badu was ruled out of the tournament due to an ankle injury, having been initially ruled out of the Black Princesses’ first match against the United States.
Ghana failed to reach the knock-out stages for the sixth consecutive time.
“My absence did affect the tactical prowess of my team-mates,” Badu told BBC Sport Africa.
“I don’t want to compare the women’s game to the Black Stars but we all know how we are treated. Women’s football needs to be polished, tactically and technically.
“We were in camp for four months preparing for qualifiers but we couldn’t play even one international friendly match. We were playing against local teams like Faith Ladies, Army Ladies, and sometimes with boys’ academy sides.”
Badu was instrumental for Hasaacas Ladies as they reached the final of the inaugural Women’s African Champions League last year.
Government has announced a further extension of its Domestic Debt Exchange expiration date to January 16, 2023.
According to a press release from the Finance Ministry on Saturday, December 24, it has amended the terms of the Debt Exchange.
“The Government today announces its decision to extend the Expiration Date of the Invitation from Friday, December 30, 2022, at 4 pm (GMT) to Monday, January 16, 2023, at 4 pm.
“The Settlement Date for the Invitation is now expected to occur on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, or as soon as practicable thereafter, but no later than the Longstop Date which is now scheduled for Tuesday, January 31, 2023, unless further extended by government pursuant to the Invitation.
“The Announcement Date is now expected to occur on or about January 17, 2023,” the Ministry said.
In addition to the foregoing extensions, government has announced modifications to the Invitation to Exchange. They are;
Offering accrued and unpaid interest on Eligible Bonds, and a cash tender fee payment to holders of Eligible Bonds maturing in 2023;
Increasing the New Bonds offered by adding eight new instruments to the composition of the New Bonds, for a total of 12 New Bonds, one maturing each year starting January 2027 and ending January 2038;
Modifying the Exchange Consideration Ratios for each New Bond. The Exchange Consideration Ratio applicable to Eligible Bonds maturing in 2023 will be different than for other Eligible Bonds;
Setting a non-binding target minimum level of overall participation of 80% of aggregate principal amount outstanding of Eligible Bonds; and
Expanding the type of investors that can participate in the Exchange to now include Individual Investors.
“These modifications will be set forth fully in an Amended and Restated Exchange Memorandum which is expected to be published during the week of 26th December 2022. Conforming changes (including adding and modifying defined terms) in respect of the above amendments and modifications to cure ambiguity, omission, defect, error or inconsistency may be included in the Amended and Restated Exchange Memorandum,” the Finance Ministry said.
As part of its efforts to address the country’s ongoing economic crisis, on December 5, 2022, government launched a Domestic Debt Exchange.
Pursuant to this, it invited certain holders of approximately ¢137.3 billion of the principal amount outstanding of certain of our domestic notes and bonds issued by the Government, E.S.L.A. Plc or Daakye Trust Plc to exchange their Eligible Bonds for a package of new bonds to be issued by the government.
Capitalised terms used but not defined herein have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Exchange Memorandum.
Government subsequently announced an extension of the Expiration Date to Friday, December 30, 2022, and the Settlement Date to Friday, January 6, 2023.
As set forth in the Exchange Memorandum, the Government said it “reserves the right in its sole discretion to extend the timetable for the Invitation at any time and to make amendments to the Invitation at any time.
“Any Eligible Holders whose Eligible Bonds are held on its behalf by a broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company or other nominees must contact such entity if it wishes to participate in the Invitation, as such entities may establish an earlier deadline to receive instructions to tender Eligible Bonds,” the Finance Ministry said.
It further stated that “In making this decision to extend and the modifications described herein, the Government considered feedback from the financial sector in relation to the need to secure internal approvals.
“Further, this extension affords the Government of Ghana the opportunity to consider suggestions made by all stakeholders with the aim of adjusting certain measures acceptable within the constraints of the Government’s Debt Sustainability Analysis.”
Sports Minster Mustapha Ussif has disclosed that Black Stars players did not receive any winning bonuses despite beating South Korea at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Ghana secured a 3-2 win over the Asian country after taking a 2-0 lead and pegged back at the start of the second half.
The West African country finished bottom of Group H with three points after losing to Portugal and Uruguay, having beaten South Korea in between.
“Mr Speaker, the reason for the surplus of over $3m, after our exit at the group stage, is as a result of the Ministry’s prudent management of resources, as well as the Ministry’s decision to negotiate a qualification bonus to the next round, instead of paying winning bonus per match,” he said at the Floor of Parliament.
“What this means is that inspite of the Black Stars defeating South Korea 3:2 in our second group match, we did not pay winning bonuses for that win. However, we would have paid a qualification bonus to the team had they been able to progress from the group to the next stage of the World Cup, regardless of the results of our group matches.
“Mr Speaker, this measure we have adopted is aimed at motivating the team to go all out and progress from one stage of competitions to the other, and also ensure prudent management of resources.
“Even though we would have been very happy for the Black Stars to progress for us to pay the qualification bonus, this measure has also saved the nation some money, which will go back to our continuous sports development,” he stated.
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has condemned personnel of the Customs Division for assaulting a young man.
The Authority says the act was uncalled for and has thus reported the incident to the police.
According to the GRA, the appropriate sanctions will be meted out to the personnel involved should they be found guilty.
“The incident has also been reported to the Police Service and the Authority is collaborating with the Police to deal with the situation.
“The appropriate sanctions would be meted out to the persons found culpable of the assault,” GRA said in a press statement issued on Friday.
The revenue generating authority has also urged the citizenry to reports acts of such nature to the appropriate remedy.
“We however wish to condemn this unfortunate situation and to use this opportunity to entreat the general public to report acts or incidents of such nature to the Authority for quick redress,” the statement added.
In a video making rounds on social media, some persons in Customs uniforms with a Customs vehicle are seen brutally assaulting a young man by the roadside.
The domestic debt exchange’s expiration date has been further postponed by the government to January 16, 2023.
The conditions of the Debt Exchange have been modified, according to a news statement issued by the Finance Ministry on Saturday, December 24.
“The Government today announces its decision to extend the Expiration Date of the Invitation from Friday, December 30, 2022, at 4 pm (GMT) to Monday, January 16, 2023, at 4 pm.
“The Settlement Date for the Invitation is now expected to occur on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, or as soon as practicable thereafter, but no later than the Longstop Date which is now scheduled for Tuesday, January 31, 2023, unless further extended by government pursuant to the Invitation.
“The Announcement Date is now expected to occur on or about January 17, 2023,” the Ministry said
.
In addition to the foregoing extensions, government has announced modifications to the Invitation to Exchange. They are;
Offering accrued and unpaid interest on Eligible Bonds, and a cash tender fee payment to holders of Eligible Bonds maturing in 2023;
Increasing the New Bonds offered by adding eight new instruments to the composition of the New Bonds, for a total of 12 New Bonds, one maturing each year starting January 2027 and ending January 2038;
Modifying the Exchange Consideration Ratios for each New Bond. The Exchange Consideration Ratio applicable to Eligible Bonds maturing in 2023 will be different than for other Eligible Bonds;
Setting a non-binding target minimum level of overall participation of 80% of aggregate principal amount outstanding of Eligible Bonds; and
Expanding the type of investors that can participate in the Exchange to now include Individual Investors.
“These modifications will be set forth fully in an Amended and Restated Exchange Memorandum which is expected to be published during the week of 26th December 2022. Conforming changes (including adding and modifying defined terms) in respect of the above amendments and modifications to cure ambiguity, omission, defect, error or inconsistency may be included in the Amended and Restated Exchange Memorandum,” the Finance Ministry said.
As part of its efforts to address the country’s ongoing economic crisis, on December 5, 2022, government launched a Domestic Debt Exchange.
Pursuant to this, it invited certain holders of approximately ¢137.3 billion of the principal amount outstanding of certain of our domestic notes and bonds issued by the Government, E.S.L.A. Plc or Daakye Trust Plc to exchange their Eligible Bonds for a package of new bonds to be issued by the government.
Capitalised terms used but not defined herein have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Exchange Memorandum.
Government subsequently announced an extension of the Expiration Date to Friday, December 30, 2022, and the Settlement Date to Friday, January 6, 2023.
As set forth in the Exchange Memorandum, the Government said it “reserves the right in its sole discretion to extend the timetable for the Invitation at any time and to make amendments to the Invitation at any time.
“Any Eligible Holders whose Eligible Bonds are held on its behalf by a broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company or other nominees must contact such entity if it wishes to participate in the Invitation, as such entities may establish an earlier deadline to receive instructions to tender Eligible Bonds,” the Finance Ministry said.
It further stated that “In making this decision to extend and the modifications described herein, the Government considered feedback from the financial sector in relation to the need to secure internal approvals.
“Further, this extension affords the Government of Ghana the opportunity to consider suggestions made by all stakeholders with the aim of adjusting certain measures acceptable within the constraints of the Government’s Debt Sustainability Analysis.”
The deputy ranking member on the Select Committee on Education, Dr. Clement Apaak has stated that students in tertiary education cannot afford the 15 percent increment in fees in the public Universities.
His remarks follow the approval by Parliament of a 15% maximum increase in university fees for the upcoming academic year.
However, the National Union of Ghana Student (NUGS) has bemoaned reports of some institutions charging 30 percent.
NUGS says the move is unacceptable considering the prevailing economic hardship in the country.
Throwing his support for the students, the lawmaker stated the challenges has to do with the GETFUND capping.
“Students cannot afford a 15% fee increase in this shambolic economy, universities are struggling to function due to inadequate funding so want to charge students more than 15%. The de-capping of GETFUND is the solution, universities will get support, the government must do the needful,” Dr. Apaak stated.
Meanwhile, the University Students Association of Ghana (USAG) has also opposed the increase in the fees of public universities for the 2022/2023 academic year.
In a statement, the USAG, stated that “the recent astronomical hikes in school fees of public universities in the country, which will make access to education become increasingly difficult.
“The procedure for approval of Public University fees is very clear, and this approval does not stop at Management or at University Councils. Our universities are supposed to send their proposed fees to Parliament through the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission and the Ministry of Finance. Subject to the passing of the recent Fees and Charges Act, 2022, the final approving authority is not the university management but Parliament.”
Executive Secretary, Civil and Local Government Staff Association (CLOGSAS),Isaac Bampo Addo, says the appointment of political apparatchiks to positions in Civil and Local Government Services is the cause of policy failures.
“Political apparatchiks and ‘goro’ boys have been made to take positions in Civil and Local Government Services, and this has impacted negatively on the fortunes of government, necessitating Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).” Mr Bampo made this observation when he delivered a Christmas message at the CLOGSAG end of year thanksgiving service.
He said the Civil and Local Government Services were both at the heart of local and central governance and that if any part of government machinery was corrupted, it would affect the whole system, noting that, “most of these apparatchiks have exhibited political party loyalty, as against neutrality, professionalism, efficiency and integrity requires by both Services.”
The Executive Secretary noted that the way the domestic debt exchange was handled had raised pertinent issues and concerns, which should not be left unattended to.
“Some issues, including the possibility that some corporate trustees had prior knowledge of the DDEP and were able to convert their domestic bond holdings into either foreign assets or foreign currency, changed their corporate holding into individual holding and changed their bond holdings into cash are issues for interrogation.”
According to Mr Bampo, government chose DDEP as an answer to its inability to service the domestic debt liability when it could have curtailed its flagship programmes that would have gone a long way to exhibit willingness on the part of government to live within its means.’
“We have noted that government has exempted pensions funds from the DDEP, however, if government should fail to honour any of our coupons, when due, CLOGSAG will embark on an indefinite nationwide strike.”
He urged the members to be calm and go about their normal duties with diligence and called on the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) to investigate the issues raised.
According to Kojo Yankah’s account of the events in his book, “The Trial of JJ Rawlings,” it is safe to assume that, while the killings of military officers following the June 4 coup were overwhelmingly popular locally, the international community was less enthusiastic about what they called Jerry John Rawlings and his army officers’ “blood-hunting vendetta.”
Contrary to the groundswell of support the military administration received from Ghanaians who were calling for more blood, the world community strongly condemned the conduct of the military rule, from the media to foreign governments.
The book highlighted the total disapproval of the then United Kingdom, India and Nigeria governments to the shooting of military generals, Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, FWK Akuffo, AA Afrifa, and Utuka, among others in 1979.
Margaret Thatcher, the then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom is reported to have indicated her ‘abhorrence’ to the execution of the military generals and said that she had been in touch with US, Canada, and members of the European Economic Community to make representations to the Ghana government about their disdain for the murder of the deposed military regime.
About June 4 Revolution
The June 4 Revolution, otherwise known as June 4th Uprising was incited by the arrest and trial of Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings and other junior military officers by the leadership of the Supreme Military Council II (SMC II). Jerry John Rawlings and the junior officers were arrested and charged with mutiny for a failed coup attempt on the 15th of May, 1979.
Jerry John Rawlings cited a number of reasons for the failed coup attempt on 15th May, 1979. Firstly, the junior military officers, including Jerry John Rawlings, were refused salaries on countless occasions. Also on the broader scale, issues of widespread corruption among Supreme Military Council officials, poor governance, economic hardship and general frustration on the part of populace as well as high levels of indiscipline within the Ghana Army were among the issues highlighted.
One of the main architects of the uprising, Major Boakye Djan, has in recent times revealed that they deliberately added a political twist to it to help emancipate the whole of Africa. According to Osahene Boakye Djan, after several secret meetings with John Rawlings, the team decided to establish a secret movement known as the Free Africa Movement (FAM) to drive the uprising. Boakye Gyan noted that although Nkrumah fought for the liberation of the whole African continent, Africa still appeared to be under the rule and control of the colonial masters. Boakye Gyan mentions in an interview that though Ghana was independent, the country was not free enough to determine the prices of cash crops like cocoa and other commodities hence the movement.
Trial Day
Prior to the trial was the failed coup attempt by Rawlings and some junior officers on the 15th of May, 1979. On the morning of the day of the coup, there was exchange of fire between the coup plotters and officers of the SMC II. It took the effort and bravery of one senior military officer, Major General Odartey Willington to get to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) to announce that the attempted coup by junior officers of the force had been foiled.
He, Major-General Odartey Willington, one Major Sulemana, other military officers who embarked on the said action at GBC were subsequently rewarded by the SMC II government and Rawlings and the junior officers arrested for trial.
The trial of Rawlings and the Junior officers took place at Burma Hall in Accra. On the day of the trial, as ABC News Ghana gathers, thousands of civilians trooped into the hall to witness the trial. The president of the military tribunal was Col. Aninful and the prosecutor for the state was Flt. Lt. Atiemo.
Rawlings was asked if he wanted a separate trial. His response was “I want to be with my men,” a comment which sparked wild applause in the hall.
Rawlings was found guilty by the tribunal and was imprisoned in a “guardroom”. It was during this time that all his ten fingers were severely damaged.
A key point in the trial was when Jerry Rawlings turned the tables and began accusing the government of massive corruption. He demanded his colleagues accused of aiding him in the treasonable act be set free insisting that he was solely responsible for the attempted coup.
On the day of 4th June, 1979
As has been stated earlier, Rawlings was found guilty and imprisoned in a guardroom. Two weeks later, on the night of June 4th, Captain Boakye Djan led other officers to overthrow the SMC II government and released Rawlings from prison. He was then sent to GBC and the government overthrow was announced. Rawlings was made to speak to allay fears of his death as had been earlier rumoured.
Notable on the day was a display by Major-General Odartey Willington. He entered an armoured car and single-handedly shot for three continuous hours. When he ran out of cartridges, he dashed to the Nima Police Station to surrender.
Unfortunately, he was killed on the spot by military officers immediately he came out of the armoured truck. He was given a somewhat befitting burial by Rawlings.
That incident marked the beginning of the uprising.
After the incident, all military installations were searched and senior military officers who were on the side of the SMC II were killed. It was on the same day that Col. Aninful, the president of the military tribunal that tried Rawlings and the junior officers on 15th May was killed. His wife and children who were also in the same room were shot. Many sympathizers of the previous government fled the country to seek asylum elsewhere.
The coup plotters then set up the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC). The membership was as follows;
9. Lance Corporal Ansah Atiemo among other people.
The Aftermath of the Revolution
The regime introduced what become known as the “House Cleaning Exercise”. The House cleaning exercise was mainly against corruption. Three former military leaders of Ghana, Lt. Gen. Afrifa, Gen. Acheampong and Lt. Gen. Akuffo were all executed together with five other senior officers deemed to have been corrupt by the Special Courts set up by the government. That was when the infamous slogan “let the blood flow” originated. Supporters of the regime used this slogan to rally military support in killing sympathizers of the previous regime who were deemed corrupt.
Numerous business entrepreneurs were also targeted and had their assets confiscated by the government.
Critics of the regime note that the period witnessed high levels of indiscipline among the junior officers towards senior officers and civilians. The Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) soon lost control of the soldiers who had gone on rampage. There was total breakdown of law and order, a situation which led to arbitrary arrests, beatings, abductions, killings, detentions, and seizure of money and personal property by soldiers.
The AFRC ruled from June 1979 to September 1979. Power was handed to Dr. Hilla Limann in September 1979. But Rawlings again overthrew Limann on 31st December 1981. Though June 4 became a noted date in Ghana’s history, it has been said to be a date that brings a lot of pain to people who either lost loved ones, lost businesses or had to flee the country for their dear lives
The most popular meat for the occasion is still poultry, but this year things might be different because most people definitely can’t afford the high prices of live birds.
A bag of chicken feed now costs roughly Ghc380, and poultry prices have also increased in response, which is gradually driving away customers.
A visit to some poultry farms and sales points in the Krobo area three days to the occasion revealed that patronage is extremely low compared to previous years.
With the average cost of the birds going for Ghc150, the prices appear to be on the high side and beyond the reach of many.
According to Dadematse Moses Agbertey, Dadematse (community leader) of Oborpah and a poultry farmer, this is the worst season during his 27 years in the poultry industry. He said most poultry farmers are even contemplating ending their poultry business. “This year is really bad, the business has deteriorated and we’ve decided that if this is how things will go then we’ll fold up,” he said.
He added that the farmers are forced to make these expenses in addition to the cost of labour, medication and water. “How much do you sell the birds to meet these costs?” he quizzed.
Asked how sales were going ahead of the Christmas he said, “Previously, we received a lot of calls two weeks to the occasion from sellers, businesses and individuals who come for large numbers but this year, nobody is calling or coming.
The dadematse blamed past and current governments for their failure to pay due attention to the poultry industry and fears that the situation if it persists this way could collapse the industry within the next two years.
Dadematse Moses Agbertey, also suggested that government creates a large cold store where farmers can slaughter and store the meat until buyers show up.
Adams Amiteye, also a poultry farmer at Asitey said farmers were sometimes forced to buy inferior feed for the birds as the quality feed is beyond the means of most poultry farmers.
Though he said some sellers contacted them for the fowls to sell and repay, most of them have been unable to return this year because they (sellers) defaulted in repaying these credits, leaving the farmers in huge debts.
According to him, he has so far sold less than 20 out of his 2000 birds with just a few days left to the commencement of the Christmas festivities, adding that he sold about 1000 fowls within same period in previous years as patrons ordered for poultry at least two weeks ahead of the yuletide.
The inability to sell the fowls means the farmers have no option but to continue to feed the birds at further cost to them.
GhanaWeb met Mr. Abraham Djaba who managed to get a fowl for Ghc150 after much bargaining. According to him, though the cost of the bird was too high he had no option but to buy. “Like he reduced the price for me, I’d like it but he said the price of the feed has gone up,” said the consumer.
For Mr. tetteyfio alex, a carpenter at odumase-krobo, buying a fowl to celebrate the yuletide is the last thing on his mind.
The farmers who say they are not after profit but to only to break even appealed to the Government to invest more money into the poultry sector.
The farmers also expressed regret that the layers were no longer producing enough eggs to offset their costs.
Adams Amiteye said his 500 layers which were expected to produce about fourteen crates of eggs a day are currently producing only three. He suspects that the poor quality of feed being fed them was the cause of the problem. “They are supposed to give us 14 crates everyday but due to the inferior feed they’ve stopped laying and its dropped to three crates,” he lamented
Some farmers who took loans from financial institutions to start the business have reportedly gone into hiding to escape from the creditors.
The Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) has been engaging stakeholder discussions with the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association regarding their relocation to Afienya in the upcoming years, according to Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey.
He said that in order to develop the Afienya automobile hub, the RCC will work with the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association to invite strategic investors.
Speaking at a press conference held in Accra on Thursday, December 22, 2022, Henry Quartey said, “Spare parts dealers in Abossey Okai have been there for years, decades so this exercise initially was perhaps misconstrued by some persons. Nobody is going to move Abossey Okai overnight but it has to be a short, medium and long-term intervention to see that eventually, we are able to relocate them to make use of the automobile hub that we are talking about.”
“Abossey Okai is primarily known as a business hub that specializes in automobile spare parts dealership. The real potential of the hub is however constricted by space, access to technology and innovation and an integrated business environment,” the Greater Accra regional minister explained.
This is a move to transform Accra into a modernized and attractive destination in Africa.
The West Africa automobile village when completed is expected to host 22,000 spare parts dealers at Afienya in the Greater Accra region whiles creating mixed development where automotive technology interacts with innovation, business, education, and residence in the most coherent manner.
Also, about 40,000 artisans and businesses, among others will benefit from various job opportunities.
This comes after the administration indicated that it will stop making payments on its external debt.
According to Fitch, the start of a sovereign default process is the cessation of interest payments on a specific category of foreign debt, such as Eurobonds, commercial term loans, and the majority of bilateral debt.
“On 20 December, the government announced plans to restructure its external sovereign debt, which will add to the pressure on banks’ capital. Details have yet to be announced but payments on selected external debt, including Eurobonds, commercial term loans, and most bilateral debt, have been suspended. Fitch views this as the beginning of a sovereign default process,” parts of Fitch’s statement read.
The issue rating on Ghana’s partially-guaranteed $1 billion notes maturing in 2030 was also downgraded to ‘CC’ from ‘B- ‘.
The dollar notes benefit from a partial credit guarantee (PCG) backed by the International Development Association of the World Bank for scheduled debt service payments of up to 40% of the original principal.
He contends that although while the goal of all international treaties and regulations is to protect the fisheries industry, in order for them to have legal force, they must first be recognized as state laws.
Speaking on the Eye on Port live show, he claimed that domesticating international norms will enable local governments to enforce them and assure industry participants’ compliance.
Also contributing to the discussion was the Deputy Director in charge of Surveys and Inspections at the Ghana Maritime Association GMA), Captain William Eson Thompson, who commended the Minister of Fisheries, Mavis Hawa Koomson for her initiative in the issuance of licenses for vessel owners.
“Until she sees a certificate from GMA, no more fishing license and that is what is making our operations very effective”.
Touching on the enforcement of safety regulations on fishing vessels to meet international practices, Captain Thompson emphasized that even though the safety standards of some fishing vessels have been low in the past, the GMA is doing all it can to raise those standards to acceptable levels.
“When they started the recent operations, we have been exposed to lot more that we needed to have done that we weren’t even aware. Now we are not only talking about the condition of the vessel thus the safety equipment or machinery, we are now focusing even on the crew. So now crew welfare has become a major issue that we will take onboard from next year,” he said.
“We concentrated on our safety life-saving equipment first, and then we moved it on to the other aspects of the vessel safety. So yes, the standards were low but right now, there is a program in place that is bringing the standard to the international level”.
He advised that the consequences of not adhering to international best practices in the fisheries industry could have dire consequences for the sector.
He said international bodies like the European Union where Ghana exports could impose sanctions.
The evaluation is one of several initiatives the central bank announced on December 23, 2022, that aim to “enable more efficient payments, stimulate the smooth transition to a cash-lite society, as well as promote the use of non-cash modes of payments.”
The Know Your Customer (KYC) Account’s initial minimum has been revised to GH2,000 from GH1,000, while the Medium KYC has been raised to GH10,000 from GH5,000
Also, the Enhanced KYC Account has been reviewed to GH¢15,000 from GH¢10,000.
After the government and organized labor signed an agreement, Mr. Ofori Atta addressed the media and said: “Obviously, the choice to exempt pension funds is at a cost, and we have committed government and the organized labor to work together to guarantee that we find means of plugging that hole.”
Following considerable pressure and opposition from various labor groups, the administration excused the monies.
The “government has decided to grant an exemption to all pension funds” in the debt exchange programme, an MoU signed by the Minister of Labour Relations, Mr Ignatius Baffour Awuah, dated Thursday, 22 December 2022, disclosed.
The exemption of pension funds under the programme follows a meeting between the government of Ghana (GoG) represented by the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations on one hand, and Organised Labour/Associations, on the other hand, represented by the leaders of all labour unions/associations.
The government and Organised Labour shall, “however, work together to explore mutually beneficial options within the debt sustainability limits and to also promote macroeconomic stability and economic recovery in the spirit of social partnership,” the statement added.
“We are asking the government to exempt us from the debt exchange programme. We have already told the world that if the government doesn’t do that, we will advise ourselves. Today, we are here to announce the advice. The advice is very simple: We have all agreed that because the government has refused to grant our request, we have decided firmly that all workers of Ghana are going to strike on December 27, 2022, and we will be on strike until our demands are met,” Dr Yaw Baah announced days before the exemption.
Some Ghanaians, including President Akufo-Addo, requested that traders lower the cost of their goods when the Ghana cedi’s value increased in relation to the US dollar, but in vain.
Although Nana Prempeh said that prices for commodities have decreased after transportation costs had decreased, he also claimed that the CFA and the dollar’s volatility make it challenging to lower prices for imported goods.
He was speaking in an interview with Class 91.3 FM’s Elisha Adarkwah on Friday, December 23, 2022, when the traders at the New Kumasi Kejetia Market donated some assorted items to six orphanage homes, Kumasi Central Prison, and 150 widows as part of the Christmas celebration.
He was quick to add that the two main foreign trading currencies have started appreciating against the cedi.
He also refuted the claims that they are sabotaging the government by not reducing the price of their commodities.
For her part, the Ntoma Hemaa of the Ashanti Region, Nana Yaa Boadu, said they cannot reduce the price of their goods because of the current appreciation of the CFA to the cedi.
According to him, the program will directly employ 3,000 young people and indirectly employ more than 16,000 unemployed individuals nationwide.
Speaking at the official launch of 1D1F Enable Youth Initiative in Accra on Friday, the Minister said the programme would help create sustainable jobs.
“It is an uncontestable fact, that one of the problems confronting our country is how we deal with youth unemployment. This particular initiative will contribute to employing almost 3,000 youth. It is also going to contribute indirectly to creating over 16,000 jobs.”
&w=707&quality=100)
&w=707&quality=100)
