France has decided to stop most of the fishing in the Bay of Biscay for a while to keep dolphins safe.
It will begin on Monday and continue until February 20, impacting fishing areas along the country’s Atlantic coast.
According to experts in France, about 9,000 dolphins die in the bay every year because they get caught in fishing gear by accident.
Local fishermen think the ban is “crazy” and are worried about not making money. But the government said they will give money to make up for it.
Last year, the State Council, the main administrative court in the country, said that environmentalists wanted to protect the marine animals better, so they had to move.
According to the news agency AFP, this ban is the first one since World War Two, and it will last for about a month. Fishing will almost completely stop in the area from Finistere in Brittany to the Spanish border during the ban.
Boats that are longer than 8 meters (26. 2 feet) will be impacted, and it is estimated that about 450 French boats will not be able to be used.
Some people in the industry think they might lose a lot of money, but the French government said they will give them money to make up for it. Minister Christophe Béchu told TF1 TV that most of the money lost will be given back, and they will give it back quickly.
Raymond Millet, a fisherman from La Rochelle, says that boats 9 to 11 meters long are not used for catching dolphins.
“It’s ridiculous to shut down businesses like this for a whole month. ”
Some people say the money offered by officials is not enough. The French fishing industry group CNPMEM criticized environmental groups and said the marine animals are not at risk.
Environmentalists say animals can get stuck or tangled in things like nets, ropes, and fishing lines. The International Whaling Commission says that smaller animals often die right away because they can’t come up to the water’s surface to breathe.
Bigger animals can get stuck dragging heavy ropes, buoys, or nets for a long time before they die, said the IWC.
Philippe Garcia, who is in charge of the group that protects sea animals, said that fishermen should follow the ban.
“He said if the fishermen don’t cooperate, it will be bad for them because it will make environmentalists’ arguments stronger if dolphins keep dying. “
Author: Chris Kodo
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France prohibits fishing for a while in order to save dolphins
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DBG pumps GHS623m into private sector in 2023
Development Bank of Ghana has injected GHS 623 million into the private sector in 2023 through partnership with Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs).
DBG has played a pivotal role in fostering economic growth by collaborating with Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs) to inject GHS 623 million into the private sector in 2023.
This substantial capital infusion has not only facilitated job creation but has also supported the expansion of businesses, leading to increased revenue and the generation of foreign exchange.
DBG’s impactful contributions to the business landscape in 2023 are highlighted in a comprehensive year-end video across various media channels, showcasing the bank’s steadfast commitment to empowering businesses and driving overall development.
DBG, in its pivotal role as a business enabler in Ghana, achieved noteworthy milestones in 2023 by disbursing a total of GHS 623 million. This substantial amount contributes to the overall GHS 869 million disbursed since the bank commenced operations in 2022.
Notably, the disbursed loans within this calendar period have played a crucial role in creating approximately 6,000 direct jobs across the nation. These funds were strategically allocated to support local businesses and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) within DBG’s key sectors, namely Agribusiness, Manufacturing, and High-Value Services.
DBG, operating on the wholesale banking model, has strategically expanded its partnerships to enhance its impact on the Ghanaian business landscape. Since its inception, the bank has collaborated with eligible partner universal banks, also known as Participating Financial Institutions (PFI).
In a significant move in 2023, DBG increased its roster of PFIs to 10, welcoming Ecobank and Absa to the existing partners, which include Consolidated Bank Ghana, Cal Bank, Fidelity Bank, Zenith Bank, and Access Bank.
Notably, DBG’s commitment to inclusivity was underscored by the addition of three microfinance institutions—Sinapi Aba Savings & Loans, Opportunity International, and Advans Ghana—to its PFIs. This strategic expansion aims to extend DBG’s financial offerings to the often-marginalized customer segment within the microfinance space.
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Destroying Gaza puts lost generation at risk – UN
This week, the Al Israa University in Gaza was destroyed by Israeli forces. They used it as a military base for a few weeks before blowing it up.
The fighting in Gaza has caused a lot of people to die, and there is worry about the damage to buildings.
A top person at the UN told media that they are worried that the widespread damage will cause a generation of young people to miss out on opportunities.
Israel started a fight with Hamas because Hamas attacked Israel and killed about 1,200 people, mostly innocent civilians. They also took 240 people as hostages and brought them back to Gaza.
About 130 people are still being held against their will. Nearly 25,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza, according to the health ministry run by Hamas.
The United Nations’ office for helping people in need publishes reports about the bad effects of the war, and they are very sad to read.
New information shows that more than half of the homes in Gaza have been destroyed or harmed. Nine out of every 10 schools have been badly damaged. Hospitals, government buildings, and electricity networks have also been damaged.
Amir Mohammed Al-Najjari is twenty-two years old. He’s from Jabalia in northern Gaza but had to move with his family to a temporary camp near Khan Younis in the south.
He and his brothers and sisters have watched their dreams go up in smoke.
“My sister was in her third year at Al-Quds University, but it got bombed. ” My brother was almost done with school, but the school got bombed. Says Amir, sitting outside the tent we live in now.
He is in the same situation as his brother and sister.
“I completed my engineering degree. ” If there wasn’t any fighting, I could have gone for a job interview and maybe I would have gotten the job. Lastly, there’s my little brother, who is in seventh grade. He went to school at the UN. There is nothing remaining.
Just like any community, the children are the future of Gaza. But here, they are suffering more in war and, the UN says, they may not get what they deserve.
Phillippe Lazzarini is the top leader for UNRWA, the UN group that helps Palestinian refugees. He just came back from visiting Gaza for the fourth time since the war began.
“Today, there are over 500,000 kids in primary and secondary schools. ” Lazzarini tells me that it’s difficult to bring people back to their homes if they’ve been completely destroyed, so how will they go back.
“I’m worried that we might be at risk of losing a whole generation of kids. ”
Pictures of Israeli soldiers celebrating while schools were destroyed became very popular on social media. One image in particular showed a blue UN school in northern Gaza being completely demolished.
These events have caused people to accuse Israel of punishing everyone for the actions of a few. They believe Israel is deliberately destroying things like schools as revenge for an incident with Hamas gunmen.
Cogat is the part of the military that helps the Israeli government with activities in the Palestinian territories. They also watch over aid deliveries going into Gaza.
I asked a top Cogat official why they had to destroy a whole school after Israeli forces had taken it over. He said that Hamas sneaky uses civilian buildings, like schools, to attack Israeli soldiers.
The person in charge said it was true that Hamas and other Palestinian groups were using medical buildings as bases. They found evidence of terrorist activities in almost every hospital.
The accusations have been questioned by health officials and aid agencies, but Gaza’s health system is not working well.
Only 13 out of 36 hospitals in Gaza are working, and many have been damaged by airstrikes, according to the World Health Organization. Many people can’t get the medical help they need because there isn’t enough equipment.
People with cancer, kidney disease, or newborn babies who need special care are at high risk, according to the Ocha bulletin.Nisreen Abu Nimr comes from the north of Gaza too. She is married and has two children. One of her children was killed in a bombing earlier in the war. Nisreen has had cancer since 2016.
“I was getting treatment for my cancer at a hospital in Gaza. ” Nisreen says that medical treatments have not been given for four months during the Israeli attack.
Some important Israeli politicians on the conservative side, including those in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s government, have said the best way to keep Israel safe is to urge people to leave Gaza for Egypt or other Arab countries, and to re-build Jewish towns there.
Israel says they didn’t try to destroy Gaza on purpose, but Mr. Lazzarini is worried that people may be forced to leave because of the damage.
“He tells me that the situation on the ground is showing that things are going in this direction,” he is clearly worried that if the fighting continues, more than a million displaced people in Gaza will be in a worse situation.
Mr Lazzarini says that we have seen a breakdown in the way people behave in society. Almost all buildings and systems like water and electricity are broken, so people in Gaza can’t get basic services anymore.
Cogat officials disagree with how serious the situation is in Gaza. They say that Israel only attacks civilians and public buildings if they believe they are being used by armed Palestinian groups.
They also say they are working every day with the UN to bring more help to Gaza.
Gaza’s parliament and new courthouse, which was paid for by Qatar, were destroyed by Israeli forces. This has left very little of Gazan society remaining.
The leader of Israel says the fighting in Gaza will keep going until Israel wins and is safe from Hamas.
The Israeli government wants all Israelis to leave Gaza eventually. What will Gaza look like after the war is over. -
Fidelity Bank Ghana honored with prestigious awards by GIRSAL
Fidelity Bank Ghana, the largest privately-owned bank in the country, has been acknowledged for its remarkable contributions to agricultural lending in Ghana.
The bank received two prestigious awards from the Ghana Incentive-based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending Project (GIRSAL), being recognized as the Most Responsive Partner Financial Institution of the Year and achieving the Highest Staff Participation in GIRSAL’s Agricultural and Agribusiness Finance Training Programme.
The collaboration between Fidelity Bank and GIRSAL, which commenced in July 2019, has markedly enhanced the bank’s presence in the agricultural sector. This partnership has seen the bank offer guarantees and technical expertise on a case-by-case basis, leading to the development of a strong Agric portfolio.
Fidelity Bank has actively supported different stakeholders in the agricultural ecosystem, encompassing input providers, primary producers, aggregators, processors, and exporters. Leveraging GIRSAL’s expertise, the bank has successfully navigated challenges, providing funding totaling GHS135 million across diverse value chains in the sector.
Fidelity Bank’s recognition as the Most Responsive Partner Financial Institution of the Year underscores the bank’s unwavering commitment to agility and proactive issue resolution. This commitment was notably demonstrated during the Akosombo Dam spillage last year, where the bank promptly collaborated with GIRSAL to offer vital assistance to affected clients.
Fidelity Bank’s swift response, driven by extensive industry insight and seamless cooperation with GIRSAL’s technical expertise, guaranteed swift and effective support for its clients, cementing its reputation as a dependable partner in addressing unforeseen challenges.
Furthermore, Fidelity Bank’s unparalleled commitment to continuous learning and skill development sets a benchmark in the sector. This commitment is evident through the bank’s exceptional participation in GIRSAL’s training programs, with over 120 staff members, including credit officers and relationship managers, gaining specialized expertise in agribusiness finance. Fidelity has clearly prioritized investments in its workforce’s capabilities, showcasing a dedication to fostering expertise within its team.
Fidelity Bank’s commitment to upskilling has yielded a highly knowledgeable and capable team, poised to offer the most informed and effective support to agribusiness clients.
This unwavering dedication to employee development has earned Fidelity the well-deserved accolade of the ‘Highest Staff Participation in GIRSAL’s Agricultural and Agribusiness Finance Training Programme.’
This recognition solidifies Fidelity Bank’s leadership in cultivating a skilled and empowered workforce, making significant contributions to the growth and development of the agricultural sector.
Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, Julian Opuni, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reiterated the bank’s commitment to collaborating with GIRSAL in fostering positive change. Opuni affirmed, “We are committed to growing the agriculture sector to ensure that, as an indigenous bank, Fidelity will be at the forefront of impacting the agriculture sector,” he stated. He reaffirmed Fidelity Bank’s dedication to doing more, emphasising the potential within agriculture cannot be underestimated.
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Ukrainian drone attack targets Russian oil station
A major inferno broke out at a facility in southern Russia where oil is stored after being struck by a drone from Ukraine.
The Russian news said that four oil tanks caught fire and the fire spread over an area of 1,000 square meters.
Authorities in Bryansk, Russia, said that nobody got hurt.
The leader of Bryansk said a flying robot was stopped near the town of Klintsy and its bombs dropped on the oil storage.
The drone attack is the second one on Russian oil places in just two days.
There was a big attack at a large oil terminal in St Petersburg, Russia, on Thursday.
Russian news said a drone was shot down without causing harm. But in Kyiv, they thought that the attack, which was far from Ukraine’s border, showed a new plan.
“Yes, we reached our goal last night. ” “Last night, this thing traveled 1,250km (776 miles),” said Ukraine’s Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin on Thursday. -
E-Cedi to be launched before 2026 – BoG
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison, has provided reassurance to the public, affirming that the launch of the highly-anticipated e-Cedi, the country’s digital currency, will occur before the conclusion of 2026.
While acknowledging the advancements in the development of the e-Cedi, the Governor pointed out that the delay in its launch is attributed to the economic dislocation caused by the events of 2022.
“Probably, it could be earlier than that. As I mentioned, we have reached a point of trying to understand the commercials a little bit more,” said Dr. Addison during an interview held on the side-lines of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) 40th anniversary and Central Banking Autumn meetings in Saint Kitts and Nevis in November 2023.
He further explained that after successful completion of the pilot phase in Sefwi Asafo, discussions on the e-Cedi’s commercial aspects were initiated. However, the COVID-19 pandemic’s onset and resulting economic crisis shifted priorities – leading the central bank to temporarily halt the digitisation process.
The pilot was an essential step in the country’s plan to enhance financial inclusion and promote digitalisation. Despite the setback caused by economic challenges, the central bank remains optimistic about the e-Cedi’s future.
In December 2023, the Bank of Ghana announced winners of the country’s first ever e-Cedi hackathon. The e-Cedi Hackathon reflects the fintech community’s enthusiastic engagement. The competition encouraged innovation and partnerships around the central bank’s new digital currency. Of 88 initial applicants, 10 finalists were selected to showcase their e-Cedi solutions; covering areas such as agriculture, government payments, business transactions, taxation and more.
Dr. Addison provided insights into the e-Cedi pilot’s status, emphasising its offline operational capacity. “The central bank did a lot of things due to favourable conditions at the end of 2019,” he explained. The pilot, conducted in some of the country’s remotest parts, featured an offline version of the digital currency to ensure usability in areas with limited connectivity infrastructure.
“The Ghanaian population is used to mobile money, so the concept of a digital currency was easily absorbed – it’s not an alien concept to people,” Dr. Addison highlighted. Positive results from the pilot, wherein participants were given a certain value to spend within their locality, demonstrated the e-Cedi’s potential success.
While the economic challenges of 2022 prompted a reevaluation of priorities, Dr. Addison emphasised that progress toward launching the e-Cedi is ongoing. The central bank’s adoption of a retail token-based CBDC, stored locally on various devices, aims to replicate traditional attributes of physical cash while incorporating additional functionalities.
“The e-Cedi’s successful deployment could have a significant impact on the country, helping to augmentthe government’s digitalisation agenda and foster financial inclusion,” Dr. Addison stressed. The Bank of Ghana seeks to reinforce its role as an active regulator and facilitator of a digital economy, aligning with the nation’s evolving financial landscape.
As Ghana advances in its digital currency efforts, the e-Cedi hackathon served as a crucial milestone, fostering innovation and supporting the nation’s goals of financial access and digital transformation. With assurances from the Bank of Ghana’s Governor, anticipation builds for the e-Cedi’s official launch – which is expected to bring transformative changes to the country’s financial ecosystem.
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Commuters frustrated over multiple checkpoints, delays along the Lagos-Accra corridor
Multiple police checkpoints and demands for bribes by Customs officials are impeding the smooth flow of goods along the Lagos-Accra corridor, a critical trade route between Nigeria and Ghana.
The challenges along the Lagos-Accra corridor not only disrupt economic activities within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sub-region but also contradict the visa-free travel arrangement for citizens that has been in place for over two decades.
It also jeopardizes a crucial aspect of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which strives to establish a unified market for goods and services throughout the continent.
A driver for a transportation company operating along the route disclosed in December 2023, on the condition of anonymity to the B&FT, that he typically receives ₦400,000 (approximately US$510 at the time) from his company for a trip from Lagos to Accra.
“This is a huge burden for us, and it ultimately translates into higher prices for consumers,” he said – noting that the sum amounted to more than 25 percent of a two-way ticket’s cost for occupants of a 12-seater bus.
The issue is particularly prevalent on the Nigerian side of the border, he said. This correspondent counted 31 checkpoints on the road from Jibowu in Lagos to the Nigeria-Benin Republic Seme Border, and 23 between the Aflao border and Miotso – a figure that was corroborated by a businesswoman who regularly transports goods between the two countries.
“Ghana and Nigeria share a historic sibling rivalry, and now it looks like we are competing to see who is the most corrupt,” the businesswoman added.
The consequences of this entrenched corruption are far-reaching. Delays at checkpoints add hours to travel times, increasing transportation costs and impacting the competitiveness of businesses. This ultimately discourages trade and inhibits economic growth in the region.
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UK island base unsuitable for immigration – UN
The UN agency for refugees said it’s not good for migrants to stay in a faraway place in the Indian Ocean with a secret UK-US military base. They got permission to visit and saw that it’s not a good place for migrants to stay for a long time.
Many Sri Lankan Tamils have been stuck for more than two years in a temporary camp on Diego Garcia.
This is the first time people have asked for asylum in this place.
The UK government said it was searching for a “solution that will last a long time”.
“The health and safety of migrants is the most important thing. ” The spokesperson said that the top importance of the British Indian Ocean Territory administration is to make sure it stays safe and well-managed. The official name of the islands is British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT).
UNHCR people went to Diego Garcia near the end of 2023 with help from the UK government. They were allowed to go to the island for the first time since the migrants arrived over two years ago.
The UN agency said it was “checking with officials” about what it had found.
A person speaking for the military said that Diego Garcia is an island with a military base and almost no people living there. It’s not a good place for people to live for a long time.
“We want the UK to fairly and quickly decide on the pending claims and help those who need international protection, following the rules of international law. ”
The first group of Tamils arrived on Diego Garcia in October 2021 because their boat got into trouble while they were trying to sail to Canada, as told by the migrants and officials.
The island is far away from other people, and unauthorized visitors are not allowed.
The group’s later requests for protection were the first ever to be made in Biot. This area is said to be different from the UK and the Refugee Convention does not apply there.
Many people in the group say they are connected to the old Tamil Tiger rebels in Sri Lanka. The rebels lost in the war that ended in 2009. They also say they have been treated badly because of this.Hunger protest
Asylum seekers say the conditions on the island are very bad, but because of the island’s unique laws, they are stuck in a difficult situation.
Many people have tried to hurt or kill themselves. Lawyers say children have also gone on hunger strikes.
Our lives are boring and dull. “I feel like I am just existing, not really living,” a man told the media.
Attorneys helping people seeking safety on Diego Garcia say there are still around 60 people on the island. Many people have been moved to Rwanda for help after trying to end their own lives.
The media was made knows that this agreement is different from the government’s plan to send some asylum seekers to an East African country. This plan passed an important step in Parliament this week.
“Our clients have been stuck on Diego Garcia for more than two years and still haven’t had their requests for international protection approved,” explained Tessa Gregory, one of the group’s lawyers.
The things they are going through. The conditions are really bad and not at all good for a group that has children and people who have been through torture and sexual violence.
Ms Gregory said that British lawyers representing the migrants want to go to the island.
Five people have been given permission to stay in another country, but we don’t know yet where they will go.
The government is helping other countries accept people who cannot go back to their own country safely.
The government has said to the BBC that they take all claims of mistreatment very seriously and look into them completely. -
Supplier credit poised to be a game-changer for SMEs
Chairman of Krif Ghana Limited, Rev. Kennedy Okoson, has emphasized that the cost of credit continues to be a significant hindrance to the growth and expansion of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in the wholesale/retail and supply chain industry.
To address the credit crunch challenge confronting local businesses, he highlighted the importance of supplier credit – a financial solution that enables businesses to extend their payment terms with suppliers, thereby improving their cash flow position.
He pointed out that multinational shopping malls, wholesalers, and retail companies, which dominate the local market, acquire the capacity to operate through credit guarantees from manufacturers and producers of the products they import, paying back after making sales. However, the same cannot be said for local businesses.
The successful entrepreneur believes that such an arrangement is essential for local players to grow their businesses to a level where they can compete with global giants and ensure sustainability beyond the first generation.
“Access to credit, cost and exchange rate have all played a role in the slow pace of business growth and collapse for some businesses within their first five years. Competitors from other countries get incentives from their governments to export, and get products on credit basis.
“Supplier credit is a financing solution that allows businesses to extend their payment terms with suppliers, ensuring a better cash flow position. By negotiating longer payment periods, these credited facilities empower SMEs to manage their expenses more effectively, invest in growth opportunities and strengthen their supplier relationship.”
Apart from this, he emphasised that work ethics, integrity and attitude of business owners are key to success in business.
“We need to redefine work in our cultural perspective. The way the Chinese, Japanese and Europeans define work influences their attitude and work ethics. The seriousness and principles we attach to work in this country are also challenges, and must be redefined.
“When a producer entrusts products in your care and you fail to meet targets consistently, then you are discrediting the arrangement; and this leads to mistrust and the need for cash and carry models,” he added.
Interest Rate
The average commercial bank lending rate for 2023 was about 36.64 percent – one of the highest in the sub-region. With such a high-interest rate, it is nearly impossible for SMEs to access capital from the banking sector, while suppliers’ credit is also non-existent.
Meanwhile, the current economic climate is placing immense pressure on small- and medium-sized enterprises to manage their cash flow effectively. Many local businesses struggle to secure affordable and flexible credit options from traditional lenders, hindering their growth and development.
It is therefore vital, he said, for financial institutions and policymakers to also prioritise access to supplier credit for SMEs.
Rev. Okoson also advocated closer collaboration between stakeholders to address the credit gap faced by local businesses.
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US strikes have not halted Houthi Red Sea attack – Biden
Houthi fighters fired another missile at a ship owned by the US on Thursday, even though President Joe Biden had previously stated that US attacks had not stopped the group’s attacks in the Red Sea.
The Pentagon said that no one was hurt and the ship was not damaged when the Houthis shot two missiles at the MV Chem Ranger.
The attack happened after the US bombed Yemen for the fifth time on Thursday.
The White House said that American forces stopped a bunch of Houthi missiles from being launched into the Red Sea.
After the US attacks, reporters in Washington DC asked Mr. Biden if the hits on Houthi targets were having an effect.
“He said they’re not stopping the Houthis when they say they’re working. ”
“Will they keep going. Yes”
The US military in charge of the Middle East said it attacked two Houthi missiles in the Southern Red Sea that were going to be launched.
The US military found the missiles in areas of Yemen controlled by the Houthi group. They found them around 3:40pm local time and said they were a threat to ships in the area.
“The US military later attacked and destroyed the missiles to protect themselves. ”
Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said to reporters: “We do not want war. ”
We are not fighting the Houthis. We are doing things to defend ourselves.
Centcom also said that there was a try to attack the MV Chem Ranger. Authorities reported that two missiles designed to attack ships were launched at a ship owned by the US and flagged by the Marshall Islands, but neither of them hit the ship.
The military spokesperson of Yemen said that the ship was hit directly.
A ship owned by the US was hit on Wednesday, shortly after the US labeled the Houthis as a terrorist group.
On Thursday, the leader of the Houthis said it was a great honor to directly confront Israel, the US, and the UK. He spoke with a lot of energy.
Abdul Malik al-Houthi said that the attack on our people is a violation of our country’s rights and a direct attack on our people.
The Houthis started attacking ships in November because they said it was in response to Israel’s military action in Gaza. Since then, the group has carried out many attacks on large ships traveling through the Red Sea, which is a very busy route for ships.
The US and UK attacked many Houthi targets with air strikes on January 11th. The attacks started because Houthi forces did not stop attacking despite being warned to stop by Australia, Bahrain, the Netherlands and Canada. -
GSS warns of high risk of missing health-related SDGs
The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has sounded a warning that without intensified efforts and increased investments, the nation is at risk of failing to attain health-related targets outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Samuel Kobina Annim, the Government Statistician, highlighted this concern during the presentation of the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) in Accra. Emphasizing the report’s findings, he underscored that meeting the targets of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) two (zero hunger), three (good health and well-being), and five (gender equality) demands heightened efforts and increased resources.
He emphasized that health improvements, viewed from access and behavior perspectives, constitute a shared responsibility between individuals and the state. Encouraging the government and relevant stakeholders to utilize insights from the survey for informed decision-making, he also highlighted the significance of acknowledging the role of an individual’s health behavior.
He pointed out that concerning health-seeking behavior, approximately one-third (32.4 percent) of women aged 15 to 49 visited a health facility or health provider in the six months before the survey, whereas one-fifth of men in the same age range (20.4%) did the same.
Giving further highlights of the survey, he indicated that there is evidence of retrogression for some health indicators over time – citing that childhood vaccination coverage remains lower than in previous surveys. Currently, 75 percent of children are vaccinated against all basic antigens, which is a decrease from 79 percent in the 2008 GDHS.
The 2022 GDHS also shows a slight increase in the percentage of children with no vaccinations, from 1 percent in the 2008 GDHS to 2 percent in 2022. Sexual violence increased by 1.1 percentage points between 2008 and 2022.
Also, regional variations are stark across several health indicators, as childhood mortality rates by region vary in range considerably. For instance, regions with the highest under-5 mortality rates for the ten-year period before the surveys are Oti and Savannah – 72 and 63 deaths per 1,000 live births, respectively; while Ahafo and Greater Accra Regions have the lowest under-5 mortality rates – 29 and 20 deaths per 1,000 live births, respectively.
The report further shows that health and education remain key drivers in addressing health challenges at the individual level. Health indicators that increase with the maternal education and household wealth quintile are malaria and stunting in children under 5 years; while, conversely, obesity increases with education and wealth.
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Renowned Mexican cartel boss ‘La Kena’ arrested
The head of a group of bad guys called the Gulf Cartel in Mexico got caught, according to local news.
José Alberto García Vilano, also known as La Kena or Ciclon 19, is said to be in charge of the violent gang Los Ciclones.
His group is being accused of taking four US citizens in March last year and causing the death of two of them.
Vilano was caught in a shopping area in Monterrey after officials were tipped off about where he was.
There is a video on social media that might show Vilano and his friends being walked through a mall by the police. But it is not confirmed if it is true.
Four people from the United States were taken by force in the city of Matamoros, which is right across from Brownsville, Texas.
Matamoros is in the middle of a fight between different groups of the Gulf Cartel. They are fighting to control the routes for smuggling drugs into the US.
Four people from America went across the border and into a town that was having problems to get plastic surgery, as told by their family members. Many Americans go to Mexico for cheaper medical treatment, but it can be risky.
Why one million people from America go to Mexico for medical tourism every year
A video showed the group getting into a pickup truck while men with big guns were there. One person is pushed onto the vehicle, while the others seem to be asleep and are pulled to the truck.
They had a difficult time for four days.
Two people named Zindell Brown and Shaeed Woodard were killed, along with a 33-year-old Mexican woman who was not involved in the situation.
The reason for the attack is not clear yet, but the Mexican authorities are looking into whether the group was thought to be part of a rival gang.
Shortly after the event, another group from the Gulf Cartel called the Scorpions Group, said sorry for the kidnapping and handed over five men they believed were responsible.
Since 2022, the government of Tamaulipas state in Mexico has offered a reward of 2,500,000 pesos (equal to $145,000 or £115,000) for information that helps catch Vilano in the city of Matamoros.
The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was looking for him too. -
Bank of Ghana procures more than 432k ounces of gold
Bank of Ghana (BoG) secured a substantial 432,358 ounces (oz) of gold from members of the Ghana Chamber of Mines (GCM) by mid-December 2023 through the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) and a voluntary foreign exchange sales initiative.
This constitutes approximately 84 percent of the Bank’s targeted acquisitions for 2023 and represents nearly 15 percent of the planned output by GCM members for the same year, as reported by the Ghana Chamber of Mines (GCM).
The primary objective of the Bank of Ghana’s gold acquisitions is to mitigate the depreciation of the local currency and its subsequent impact on inflation.
The Chamber’s president, Joshua Mortoti, noted that this is in line with the commitment of GCM’s producing members to help government’s efforts to speed-up the economy’s recovery.
The Chamber, he added, is in the process of collating members’ planned gold sales to BoG for 2024, and will facilitate the signing of bilateral agreements between the central bank and mining companies after targets are finalised.
Mr. Mortoti was speaking at a breakfast meeting with the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources – organised by the Chamber in Accra, and also stated that: “In the same vein, members continued to voluntarily give the Bank of Ghana first option to buy forex they intend to sell for the local currency”.
The DGPP was announced in 2021 by government to enable BoG have the first right of refusal for all gold mined in the country. It is part of the central bank’s plan to build gold reserves to stabilise the cedi.
The decision was also against a background that the central bank had only 8.7 tonnes of gold reserves at end-2021, despite the country being one of the world’s leading gold producers.
Announcing the policy decision of the time, Vice President, Dr. Bawumia Mahamudu said: “The central bank will purchase the gold at world market prices and mining companies will export the portion that is not purchased by BoG. Ultimately, once we accumulate enough gold; future borrowing and our currency can be backed by gold. This will stabilise the cedi long-term.
“We must also deepen our industrialisation through value addition to gold; even though Ghana has two gold refineries, neither has London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) certification. This limits our full participation in the gold value chain. We will urgently work toward LBMA certification for our refineries over the next few years,” he added.
Also speaking at the breakfast meeting, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Samuel Abu Jinapor said he continues looking forward to support from the Chamber for various interventions being implemented by government – including value addition, local content and participation, as well as development of mining communities.
He said: “Together, we will achieve the President’s vision to make Ghana the mining hub of Africa.
“The ministry remains fully committed to effective and efficient utilisation and management of our country’s natural resources, anchored on transparency, integrity and utmost good faith for the Ghanaian people’s benefit,” he added.
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Netanyahu openly opposes US efforts to establish Palestinian state
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he told the United States that he doesn’t want a Palestinian state to be created after the fighting in Gaza stops.
At a press conference, Mr. Netanyahu said he will continue the attack in Gaza until Hamas is destroyed and the Israeli hostages are released. He also said this could take several months.
With nearly 25,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza and 85% of the Strip’s people forced to leave their homes, Israel is facing strong pressure to stop its attack and have important discussions to bring an end to the war.
Many countries that support Israel, like the US, and even some that don’t, want the idea of creating two separate countries, Israel and Palestine, to be brought back to life. This would mean that a future Palestinian country would exist alongside Israel.
Many people hope that the crisis will make the fighting groups start talking to each other instead of keep fighting. They think that talking is the only way to stop the fighting from going on and on. But it seems that Mr. Netanyahu actually has the opposite intention based on his comments.
Speaking to reporters after Mr. Netanyahu’s recent comments, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby admitted that the US and Israel have different views on the issue.
On Thursday, Mr. Netanyahu said that Israel needs to have security control over all the land on the western side of the River Jordan, even the territory that might be given to a future Palestinian state.
“This is something that must happen, but it goes against the idea of Palestinian control. ” What should I do. I told our American friends the truth and I stopped the attempt to force a false reality on us that would hurt Israel’s safety,” he said.
Mr Netanyahu has spent a long time in politics and has always been against the idea of Palestine becoming its own country. Just last month, he said he was happy to have stopped it from happening. So, his recent comments are not unexpected.
However, the open disagreement with Washington’s diplomatic efforts, and the decision to continue the current military strategy, indicate that the divide is growing between Israel and its western supporters.
Since the attacks on October 7th, the US has supported Israel’s right to defend itself. This attack was the worst in Israel’s history, with 1,300 people killed and 240 taken hostage by Hamas gunmen.
As more people have died in Gaza and there have been many horrible scenes, Western governments are asking Israel to be careful and not use too much force.
The White House keeps trying to tell Israel what to do with its military. They want Israel to use more precise weapons instead of bombing everything. They also don’t want Israel to send troops into the area. And they think there should be two separate states, one for Israelis and one for Palestinians, with the Palestinian Authority involved in making peace in Gaza after the fighting.
MrKirby said the US has been very clear about what it wants Gaza to look like after the war.
“He said that the people of Gaza should have a say in their government, and it should not be taken over by another country. ”
Many people have not listened to Washington’s advice, and some have even rejected it, especially when the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits.
This has made some Americans very frustrated with the Biden administration because they seem to strongly support Israel without any conditions on the aid they give to their ally in the Middle East.
The prime minister of Israel said something that will make his small group of supporters and the very conservative ministers in his government happy.
However, this war will upset people at home and in other countries who are increasingly shocked by the number of people being harmed. Recent surveys indicate that most Israelis want him to focus on bringing the remaining hostages home instead of trying to destroy Hamas, which may be very difficult. -
North Korea conducts ‘underwater nuclear weapons system’ tests
North Korea says it tested its “underwater nuclear weapon” because of military exercises by the US, South Korea, and Japan.
State media reported that the underwater drone, which might be able to hold a nuclear weapon, was tested in the ocean on the east side.
Seoul had earlier said that the North’s descriptions of the drones’ capability were wrong and there is no evidence of the tests being done.
South Korea said the reported tests were a “provocation”.
The South Korea defense ministry said that North Korea’s actions are dangerous and could cause problems in the Korean Peninsula and the world. If North Korea makes a direct attack, South Korea will respond strongly and decisively.
The North has tested its “Haeil-5-23” system before, but now they are doing more military actions.
On Sunday, it said it had used a new missile that uses solid fuel and can go a medium distance.
This means that there were military exercises with actual gunfire at the ocean border with South Korea in early January.
Kim Jong Un, the leader of Pyongyang, has been acting more aggressive lately by canceling agreements aimed at keeping the peace.
On Friday, North Korea said it was provoked by joint military exercises by the US, South Korea, and Japan. They said this made them want to test their underwater weapons. This was reported by the state agency KCNA.
It accused the exercises of making the situation in the region more unstable and putting North Korea’s security at risk.
The US, South Korea, and Japan have been doing more military exercises to stop North Korea from doing more military actions. North Korea has been doing tests of its nuclear bombs and launching new weapons more often. So the other countries want to show that they are ready to fight back. These actions go against the rules set by the United Nations.
Mr Kim keeps saying that his country is getting more weapons ready for a war that could start at any time.
During the New Year, he showed some big changes in his government’s position on South Korea.
And earlier this week, he said that the old goal of joining together with South Korea was no longer important. He called South Korea the “main enemy”.
The speech talks about improvements in the military and nuclear capabilities of the country, especially in its underwater operations.
In September, the North showed their first submarine that they say can shoot nuclear weapons.
Since March 2023, it has been testing its Haeil system, which are unmanned nuclear-armed drones that work underwater. Haeil means “tidal wave” in the Korean language.
We don’t know much about these weapons or how well they work, but North Korean media say they can go into enemy waters and make big explosions underwater.
Experts believe that if the weapons work the way North Korea says they do, they would be less important than the country’s nuclear missiles.
North Korea’s weapons are still being developed, so they are not a big threat yet. Ahn Chan-il, who used to live in North Korea and now studies it, said this to the news agency AFP.
Last year, North Korea said it put a spy satellite in space. They want to put three more up this year.
It is still unclear if the satellite is working properly and this has not been confirmed by an independent source.
South Korea said North Korea got its satellite up with help from Russia. Russia reportedly got weapons from North Korea for its war in Ukraine.
Last year, Mr Kim had important meetings with Russia’s leader Vladimir Putin and defense minister Sergei Shoigu. This week the foreign minister of North Korea was also in Moscow. -
Your comments are unfortunate – Mahama criticizes Akufo-Addo over Ekumfi statement
Former President John Mahama has criticized President Akufo-Addo for his recent comments suggesting that he ignored the development of Ekumfi because the constituents voted out his party’s parliamentarian. Describing the President’s remarks as “unfortunate,” Mahama accused Akufo-Addo of making partisan statements, contrary to his oath of ensuring justice for all citizens.
Mahama referenced Article 36, Clause 2(d) of the constitution, emphasizing the government’s responsibility for “even and balanced development” across regions and redressing imbalances between rural and urban areas. The former president expressed concern over Akufo-Addo’s tendency to make divisive comments, citing a similar incident during the President’s visit to flood victims in Mepe.
Mr Mahama argued that such partisan statements undermine the principles of inclusive development and raise questions about the President’s commitment to national unity.
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Just give Bawumia one term – Allotey Jacobs tells Ghanaians
Former Central Region Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Allotey Jacobs, has appealed to Ghanaians to give Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia a chance to become President.
The veteran politician holds the strong conviction that the Vice President would be able to transform the country if given just one term.
In an interview on Peace FM, Mr Jacobs declared the Vice President as the potential transformative force Ghana needs in its political arena.
Recognizing Bawumia as the “matrix of Ghana politics,” Jacobs lauded him as the first true technocrat to contest presidential elections.
Alotey Jacobs, a well-known figure in Ghanaian politics, expressed his conviction that Bawumia’s technocratic background positions him uniquely to bring about meaningful change in the political landscape.
“Bawumia is the matrix of Ghana politics. First time getting a real technocrat to contest the elections to be a president and that’s what we need in our system.
“The system which we always claim is corrupt, something should change that system and it will take Bawumia. Let’s try him. This is his time. Just give him one term and let’s see how Ghana would be,” he said.
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Women in Bawku stage protest against military intervention
A group of women in the Bawku township staged a protest on Friday, January 19, 2024, accusing military personnel of brutality against residents.
In a video, hundreds of women were observed chanting, “We don’t need them [the military], we want them out.”
The protest was triggered by reported incidents on Thursday evening, where soldiers allegedly entered the Bawku township and discharged firearms indiscriminately, leading to casualties.
“We have not been able to verify the number of people that are injured. After the military fired, some of the people have dispersed, and some of them are still there protesting and the injured have been taken to the Vineyard Hospital,” one resident told Citi News in an interview.
It was reported that unknown gunmen fired into a group of people at the community centre on Wednesday, resulting in the death of two persons, while four others were injured.
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Prepare yourself if you want to enter politics; we are waiting for you – Jennifer Queen to Cheddar
A Deputy Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Jennifer Queen, has issued a challenge to Nana Kwame Bediako, the founder and leader of #TheNewForce, popularly known as Cheddar urging him to prepare for the challenges and scrutiny of the political arena.
In an interview on United Television (UTV), Queen emphasized that the political landscape demands resilience and courage, and that it is not suitable for individuals deemed as cowards.
Queen’s remarks were prompted by Cheddar’s unconventional approach to launching his presidential ambition, choosing to remain mysterious behind a mask. She questioned the rationale behind this decision and concluded that such an act signifies cowardice.
She, thus, asserted that Cheddar should brace himself for the intricacies of the political landscape.
“Prepare yourself if you want to enter politics; we are waiting for you,” she said.
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University staff justify industrial action; blames govt for all suffering resulting from strike
The Senior Staff Association of Public Universities in Ghana (SSA-UoG) and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff (FUSSAG) have embarked on an indefinite strike, citing the government’s deliberate refusal to pay their mandatory occupational pension as the primary reason for their industrial action.
Since last year, the unions claim that the government has neglected their Tier-2 pension scheme, despite numerous efforts by their leadership to address the issue. Members of these unions at prominent institutions such as the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), University of Development Studies (UDS), and University of Ghana (UG) have demonstrated their commitment to the strike until the government intervenes.
At KNUST, SSA-UoG members expressed their frustration, emphasizing that the strike is their only recourse to compel the government to address their plight. The core issue revolves around the Tier-2 pension, which the government has allegedly withheld since February of the previous year.
A member of the Senior Staff at KNUST stated, “Government has refused to address this issue. Some of our members have gone on pension, and when you see the amount of money that they have been given, you realize that the government is actually making things difficult for us.”
In addition to the pension concerns, the unions highlighted their apprehensions about the government’s intention to reduce their fixed overtime allowance from 50% to 10%, renaming it as a call-in allowance.
The impact of these issues, including potential retiree hardship and reduced income for active staff, has raised serious concerns among the unions. The Chairman of SSA-UoG at UDS, Mohammed Zachari, underscored the severity of the situation, especially for retirees, stating, “The implications of the government’s action are unacceptably severe, particularly for retirees from 2020-2023.”
Despite acknowledging the counterproductivity of their strike, the unions emphasized their commitment to continuing the industrial action until the government addresses their grievances. They argue that the government should be held accountable for any adverse consequences resulting from the strike.
James Yakubu, SSA-UoG Trustee at the University of Ghana, highlighted that the unions had provided prior notice to the government but received no response. He expressed the unions’ openness to negotiation if an official notice is received.
The indefinite strike by university staff in Ghana raises concerns about the potential impact on the academic environment and emphasizes the urgency of resolving the pension dispute to restore normalcy to the nation’s universities.
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Sad news hits Alan Kyerematen
Founder and leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, is mourning the demise of a devoted member of his political movement, the Movement for Change.
The deceased, identified as Nathaniel Tetteh Bossah, was an integral part of Kyerematen’s political endeavors.
Taking to social media, Mr Kyerematen expressed his deep sorrow and condolences to the family of the departed member of the movement.
Mr Kyerematen said the life of Nathaniel and “his memory will forever remain a part of our movement”.
“I wish to express my deepest condolences for the loss of Nathaniel Tetteh Bossah. His passing is not only a profound loss to his loved ones but also to the Movement For Change,” he shared in an X post.
The cause of death and additional details surrounding the circumstances of the passing have not been disclosed.
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Stalin icon taken down from church in Georgia
A picture of Joseph Stalin and a Russian Orthodox saint meeting was taken down from Georgia’s main cathedral.
The Georgian Church stated that the painting was taken to be fixed because there wasn’t enough proof that the two people in the painting had actually met.
The painting upset a lot of people and an activist recently threw blue paint on it to protest.
The church leaders and the ruling party have criticized the action.
The Patriarchate of Georgia said last week that icons must show true stories and that the picture of Stalin needs to be changed.
“The people who gave us the picture need to fix it, or we will have to do it for them,” it said.
A lot of people in Georgia are upset with the Church for accepting the icon because Stalin, who was from Georgia and wanted to be a priest when he was young, did a big purge of the clergy when he was in charge.
A picture of St. Matrona of Moscow was put in a church in Tbilisi. Matrona was a Russian woman who lived in the 20th century and was known for her visions and healing abilities. She was declared a saint in the 1990s.
In one picture, the Russian Orthodox saint is giving blessings to Stalin.
Several months ago, the Alliance of Patriots, a nationalist party suspected of ties to the Kremlin, donated it to the church.
The icon became famous this month after the politician Giorgi Kandelaki talked about it. It has been causing arguments and disagreements since it started.
Activist Nata Peradze posted a video of herself throwing eggs filled with paint at a picture, and explained that she was protesting against making a cruel leader seem heroic.
“I had to do something. I’m not going to talk about Stalin’s Terror because everyone knows about it, but my family on both sides suffered and relatives disappeared,” she told the BBC.
A very traditional pro-Russian group called Alt-Info, was involved in violent attacks against journalists in 2021 because of their homophobic beliefs. They have also organized protests outside Ms. Peradze’s house and in front of parliament.
She says people are threatening to kill her, so she’s hiding now. The police are protecting her house.
The scandal about the famous person has started a big argument in the country about the Soviet leader’s history.
The Georgian Dream party said it was bad that the icon was ruined, but they haven’t said anything about the national discussion about Stalin’s role.
The Sovlab research group is studying Georgia’s history of being controlled by the Soviet Union. They think that Russia’s leader, Putin, is making the Soviet dictator look good again. They also believe that Russia is using this as a way to control how people in Georgia think.
Sovlab has found 12 new statues of Stalin in Georgia in the last 10 years.
The singer in the choir who is very talented and special.
Stalin was born in Gori, Georgia in 1878. A very important person in the Russian revolution helped the Bolsheviks take control, and then he was the leader of the USSR from 1924 until he died in 1953.
Stalin killed many people and used strict rules and fear to get rid of anyone who disagreed with him and to create a communist government.
A lot of people in a tiny country in South Caucasian do not like the things that the Soviet Union left behind. But, some still feel proud of Stalin because he came from there and started with not much.
On 16 January, British author Simon Sebag Montefiore visited Tbilisi for a movie based on his book, Young Stalin. He was surprised to see the dictator’s picture in the cathedral.
Stalin went to a religious school and believed in God until he was almost an adult. “He was the best singer in the choir,” he said.
“However, he became very against the Church, started living a non-religious life, stopped believing in God, and supported Bolshevism and Marxism instead. ”
“He thought that killing a lot of people could make society better. ” -
Man dies following explosion in homeless hostel in Dublin
A man died after a big blast at a place where homeless people stay in Dublin.
The explosion happened around 3:30 pm on Thursday at a building called Support Temporary Accommodation run by DePaul Ireland on Little Britain Street.
People living in the building have been told to leave and nobody else has been hurt.
Irish police and Dublin Fire Brigade are at the place, where they have closed off the area and redirected traffic.
The explosion is being looked into, but it is believed to have happened in just one part of the building.
People who live there heard a loud noise and saw some smoke, so they had to leave the area.More update on this story soon.
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Ten activists killed by suspected Jordanian airstrikes in southern Syria
Local activists and media are saying that at least 10 people, including children, were killed in air strikes in south-western Syria that were likely done by Jordan.
Many houses were said to be ruined in Arman, a town in Suweida province, around 20km (12 miles) away from the border.
Jordan authorities did not respond right away.
The military has likely bombed certain areas in Syria to attack people who are thought to be smuggling drugs.
Jordan and its friends in the West say that well-organized and heavily armed militias supported by Iran are causing a rise in smuggling into Jordan. This is happening in areas of Syria that are controlled by the government. They are especially smuggling a drug called Captagon, which is in high demand in the Gulf Arab states.
The Suwayda 24 news website, run by activists, said that there were air strikes in residential areas of Arman and nearby Malah early on Thursday.
It was reported that witnesses said two men named Omar Talab and Turki al-Halabi had their houses damaged and destroyed in Arman.
Mr Talab, his mom, and his aunt died. Also, seven of Mr. Halabi’s family members including his wife and two little girls were killed, according to witnesses. Halabi and his mother were stuck under their collapsed house and people thought they were dead.
Suwayda 24 shared a video of people looking for victims in one place. The local fire department found Mr. Halabi’s body and is also searching for another person.
A group in the UK called the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that nine people died in the Arman strikes. This included five women and two children. Another woman was stuck under the rubble and couldn’t get out.
The Observatory criticized the “massacre” in Arman and mentioned that Jordanian warplanes had trespassed into Syrian territory for the third time this year.
The attacks also hit a damaged warehouse and a house in Malah, but no one was hurt.
On January 8th, news sources reported that three people died in two different attacks. One attack hit a house and a farm in the town of Shaab, while the other hit a barn in Arman.
The next day after the strike, an editor named Ryan Marouf told Reuters news agency that it looks like Jordan is increasing its fight against drug dealers.
He said that Jordanian forces are focusing on finding and stopping drugs from being smuggled across the border. They are targeting farms where drugs may be stored and the homes and hideouts of drug dealers.
On January 6, the Jordanian army said they had killed five people in a fight with armed smugglers trying to come into Jordan from Syria. -
NPP disqualifies 17 aspirants from contesting in Parliamentary Primaries on Jan. 27
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially announced the list of aspiring candidates eligible to contest in the party’s upcoming parliamentary primaries.
Out of around 400 individuals who obtained forms to participate in the NPP Parliamentary race, 376 underwent the vetting process.
Seventeen aspirants have been disqualified, 326 candidates qualified for the parliamentary primaries, three aspirants withdrew from the race, 29 individuals went unopposed, and one aspirant’s application is currently under court review.
The decision comes after a thorough review of the reports submitted by the National Parliamentary Appeals Committee (NPAC) and the National Parliamentary Vetting Committee (NPVC) regarding the eligibility of aspirants.
During a critical meeting held on Wednesday, January 17, at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, the NEC, along with key party figures including the flagbearer, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Chairman Stephen Ayesu Ntim, former Chairman Freddie Blay, Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare, and former General Secretary John Boadu, discussed and deliberated on the final list of qualified aspirants.
The NEC stressed that the decision to disqualify or approve candidates for the January 27 parliamentary primaries was made after careful consideration and in-depth discussions based on the reports received from NPVC and NPAC.
The disqualified aspirants are Portia Asante Danso (Afigya Sekyere East seat), Kwabena Addo Amankwah (Manhyia South seat), Arkoh Robert (Upper Denkyira East seat), Nathan Kobina Austin (Assin South seat), Joseph Afankwah (Agona West seat), Frank Aidoo (Akuapem South seat), Emmanuel Adjei Lartey (Okere seat), Dennis Obeng Agyei (Akim Oda seat), Ruth Yaa Ansaa Safori (New Juaben South seat).
The others include, Samuel Owusu Amankwah (Ayawaso West Wuogon seat), Richard Hagan (Okaikwei South seat), Sylvia Opoku-Manu (Ablekuma West seat), Edward Lincoln Addo (Trobu seat), Ahmed Zaruk Nuhu (Bimbilla seat), Alex Avoka Amolbugri (Binduri seat), Alois Kog Kyaakpier Mohl (Nandom seat), Appiah-Kubi Naidoo (Sefwi Akontombra seat).
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NPP squashes KT Hammond’s petition seeking to disqualify opponents
A petition filed by the Trade and Industry Minister, Kobina Tahiru Hammond (KT Hammond), seeking to disqualify his opponents in the party’s Adansi Asokwa parliamentary primary, has again been dismissed by the National Executive Committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In the petition filed by the Trades Minister, Mr Hammond argued that they are not eligible to contest the poll based on Articles 12(4) and (7) of the NPP’s constitution.
He claimed that his opponents Samuel Dakwa Binfoh, Dr Enoch Acheampong, and Kwabena Nkansah Asamoah – are not card-bearing members of the party.
Additionally, he stated that the aforementioned persons have not done any work in the constituency to merit representing the constituents.
It is in view of these that Mr Hammond is challenging the qualification of his opponents in the upcoming primaries.
However, the petition has been squashed. This is the second time Mr Hammond is challenging the eligibility of his opponents.
On January 2, 2024, the Adansi Asokwa MP petitioned the Ashanti Regional Vetting Committee to disqualify his main opponent in the primary, Sammy Binfoh Darkwa but after hours of deliberation on the matter, the vetting committee threw out the petition and cleared both aspirants to begin their campaign for the primary.
Unsatisfied with the outcome, K.T. Hammond subsequently lodged a petition with the National Vetting Committee.
As it stands now, all candidates have been cleared to contest.
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GRA declares Jan 1, 2024 as implementation date for 7 new taxes
Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has officially designated January 1, 2024, as the commencement date for the implementation of seven tax amendments recently passed by Parliament and signed into law by President Akufo-Addo.
The announcement, detailed in a circular disseminated by the GRA and published in various newspapers, underscores the significant changes that will impact the country’s tax landscape.
The GRA has committed to developing administrative guidelines and issuing notices as necessary to facilitate the smooth implementation of these amendments. Notably, the authority has highlighted that payroll deductions for January 2024 must reflect the new rates stipulated in the Income Tax (Amendment).
The seven Tax Bills, signed into law by President Akufo-Addo on December 29, 2023, encompass a range of measures affecting different aspects of taxation in Ghana. They include amendments to Value Added Tax (VAT), Excise Duty, Stamp Duty, Emissions Levy, Exemptions, Customs, and Income Tax.
Among these amendments, the VAT Bill aims to broaden the tax net, extend zero rates on locally manufactured products, introduce zero rates on locally-produced sanitary towels, and waive VAT on the import of electric vehicles for public transportation. However, it may also result in a potential increase of over 21% in Motor Insurance Premiums due to the application of Non-Life Insurance Business and products.
The amended Excise Duty Bill seeks to realign excise duty rates on certain drinks, reduce excise duty on plastics, and broaden the coverage of excise duty on plastics to include imported plastic packaging.
The Emission Levy Act imposes levies on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from specified sectors and internal combustion engine vehicle emissions. This levy structure will affect various sectors, including Construction, Manufacturing, Mining, Oil and Gas, Electricity, Heating, and Motor Vehicles, contributing to the Government’s revenue target of over GHS5 billion in 2024.
While these tax amendments are anticipated to bolster government revenue, concerns have been raised about potential impacts on the cost of living. Notably, motor insurance is expected to surge by more than 30%, adding to the economic considerations accompanying these legislative changes. As these tax reforms take effect, stakeholders will closely monitor their implications on various sectors and the broader economic landscape in Ghana.
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Former flight attendant named first female president of Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines has chosen a woman to be its next president for the first time. This is rare for a big Japanese company and a global airline.
Mitsuko Tottori started working as a flight attendant for the main airline in 1985. Then she got promoted to higher positions.
She said she wished that her promotion would inspire other women to go for the next level in their careers.
Despite getting better, very few big airlines have women in top leadership roles.
Ms Tottori will become the new president on 1 April, taking over for Yuji Akasaka. Akasaka will take over as the top boss of the airline, replacing Yoshiharu Ueki.
The appointments happen a few weeks after a Japan Airlines plane crashed into a smaller coastguard aircraft at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.
A “miraculous” rescue saved all 379 people on the plane, but unfortunately five out of the six crew on the coastguard plane did not survive.
Ms Tottori used to work in the front lines before she became the director for cabin crew in 2015. She said safety would be her top priority.
“I have worked in safety and customer service for most of my career, specifically as a cabinet attendant,” she said at a press conference.
“Keeping flights safe is the most important thing for airlines. ” She said she will keep showing how dedicated she is to this principle.
She also said there were women having a hard time moving forward in their job, and she hoped that her appointment could give them the confidence to take the next step.
A study on airlines found that in 2022, 12 women were in charge of the top 100 airlines, which is an increase from six the year before.
These people are Marjan Rintel from KLM, Annette Mann from Austrian Airlines and Lynne Embleton from Aer Lingus.
Earlier this month, Joanna Geraghty became the first woman to be the boss of a big airline in the United States. She was appointed as the chief executive of JetBlue Airways.
It is not common for women to be in charge of big companies in Japan.
The government wants more women to have top jobs at big companies by 2030 because they didn’t reach their goal by 2020.
It is also telling businesses to choose at least one woman as a high-up leader by 2025.
In 2021, women in Japan held the lowest number of management positions compared to other countries in the OECD, with only 13. 2%
The OECD said that the trend shows that human resources are not being used properly. -
India boat disaster claims lives of at least ten children
At least 12 students and two teachers are believed to have died in western India, after a boat carrying them to a school outing overturned on Thursday.
Vadodara City Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot talked to BBC Gujarati and said that the number of deaths is confirmed. He also said that a rescue operation is still happening.
We don’t know what caused the incident at Harni Lake in Vadodara, Gujarat yet.
Local authorities said that about 27 people were on the boat.
The local police told the BBC that they rescued up to seven people from the water.
Police Commissioner Gehlot said that the children who were saved are getting medical care at a hospital close by.
He also said that the people who were hurt did not get life jackets on the boat, according to Reuters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness for the families who have lost loved ones.
The leader of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, said the government will give 400,000 rupees to the families of people who died and 50,000 rupees to the families of people who were hurt in the accident.
Boat accidents happen often in India because the boats are usually too full, not taken care of and don’t have enough safety gear.
Twenty-two people died when a boat overturned in the southern state of Kerala in India last year. -
Teen in court over killing at Dublin restaurant
An 18-year-old man has been accused of being involved in a fight at a restaurant in Dublin last month, where two men were killed.
Jonas Kabangu went to court on Thursday for being involved in a violent situation and using or threatening to use unlawful force.
Tristan Sherry, 26, was a shooter in a shooting at Browne’s Steakhouse on Main Street in Blanchardstown when he died.
James Hennessy Snr, who was 48 years old, was shot and badly hurt at the restaurant. He died 11 days later in the hospital.
A police officer told the court that Mr Kabangu did not say anything after he was charged and warned.
An app was approved to keep the accused’s address a secret for safety reasons, because there could be an attack in retaliation.
The judge let Mr Kabangu go home as long as he followed some rules, like staying at home at certain times and visiting the police station twice a week.
He told him to stay away from a place in Corduff, Dublin and not talk to nine people whose names were given to the court.
The judge agreed to provide free help from a lawyer.
Mr Kabangu didn’t say anything in court and will have to come back at a later date for more instructions from the Director of Public Prosecutions. -
Abuja kidnapped sisters: Nigeria’s minister of defence criticises ransomware crowdfunding
The defense minister of Nigeria is criticizing people who give money to kidnappers as it only makes the situation worse.
Mohammed Badaru Abubakar said something as the time limit to give money for the release of five sisters passed.
They were taken from their home in Abuja earlier this month, along with their sister who was later killed.
The situation surprised the whole country and people are giving money to a fundraising campaign.“We feel worried, everyone is ready and waiting. ” We want them to come back home. “They are all just praying,” said Asiya Adamu, who is a cousin to the sisters, in an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday.
The family has not contacted us since the deadline passed.
Six sisters, who were between their early teens and 23 years old, were kidnapped in a place called Bwari in Abuja. Their father, Mansoor Al-Kadriyar, was also kidnapped but he was let go to get the money for their release.
His 21-year-old daughter, Nabeeha, who was in her last year of university, was murdered last Friday to make her family pay a large amount of money as ransom.
Mr Abubakar said that giving the kidnappers what they want will make them want more.
“In crowdfunding, there is a law that says you can’t pay ransom. ” It’s very upsetting when people have to ask for money on the internet or radio to pay a ransom. “He said this will only make the situation worse. ”
The minister said that in this situation, the kidnappers asked for more money.
We think we should stop, even though it’s hard. We need to stop giving money for ransom. If we don’t give them any money, they will stop kidnapping people because it’s not worth it for them.
Many people are being kidnapped in Nigeria by criminal gangs who want to make money easily. This has been happening a lot in recent years. The situation has been really bad in the northwest part of the country.
Many people are upset because there is a lot of crime in the capital city. So the police in Abuja have created a special team to fight kidnapping gangs.
Mr Abubakar thinks that gangs were forced to move closer to the capital because of operations against them in other places.
“The security agencies are working very hard to remove them, stop them from moving, and end them completely. “ -
Uvalde report to be released by US Justice Department
The police did not do a good job in responding to the 2022 Uvalde school shooting, according to the Department of Justice.
On Thursday, a report was finally released. It said that the police did not understand the situation well when 19 students and two teachers died.
Many police officers went to Robb Elementary school, but it took them more than one hour to find and stop the person with the gun.
The Justice Department made a report that is over 400 pages long. It lists mistakes that the police made.
People in Uvalde, a small town in Texas with about 15,000 people, have been waiting for the Justice Department’s report since it was announced a few days after the shooting on May 24, which was one of the worst in US history.
On Wednesday, Attorney General Merrick Garland visited families in Uvalde and saw the paintings of victims on the walls around town. Officials from the Justice Department met privately with the families of victims and gave them information before the report was made public.
Berlinda Arreola, whose granddaughter was killed in the shooting, told the Associated Press after the meeting: “I have a lot of feelings right now. I don’t have much to say.
Oscar Orona, whose 10-year-old son was shot in a classroom, told the Washington Post: “I think the report will prove what we already knew, that it was a terrible failure. ”
“But now everyone will know too. ”
Former Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin asked for a review because state officials gave different stories about what happened before police stopped an 18-year-old gunman from shooting a rifle inside two fourth-grade classrooms.
Almost 400 police were at Robb Elementary School, but victims and their families think the police took too long to help.
In July 2022, Texas lawmakers released a harsh report blaming the police for making very bad decisions that led to a terrible event.
The shooter shot about 142 bullets in the building before he was stopped, according to the report.
Videos from police cameras showed officers standing in the hallways outside classrooms where the shooter was shooting.
Families who have lost loved ones called the police cowards and said they should quit their jobs.
The Texas officials’ report said that the police didn’t focus on saving innocent lives before their own safety.
At least five cops got fired, including Pete Arredondo, the old chief of police for Uvalde schools who got fired in August 2022.
Many people in the community have taken legal action against the city police and local government officials. The cases are still waiting to be resolved.
Uvalde County District Attorney Christina Mitchell said in December that she is still investigating the police response. She expects to finish the investigation in 2024 and then present her findings to a grand jury. This information comes from CBS News, the BBC’s media partner. -
Tension between Somalia and Ethiopia evokes memories of 1977
Somalia’s government-owned media has been playing a song that some people say encourages bad behavior. The song was performed by the Somali police band.
It brings back old feelings of dislike towards Ethiopia because of the agreement they made with Somaliland on January 1st.
The song talks about a war that happened between Ethiopia and Somalia in 1977, almost 50 years ago.
The song says, “If you don’t want peace, we will give you a chance to remember what we did to you in 1977. ”
During the fighting, soldiers from Somalia went far into Ethiopia and took control of a large area before the Ethiopian army, which had better weapons, pushed them back.
Both sides say they won.
The song titled Remember What We Did to You in 1977, along with two other songs about Ethiopia, have been shared a lot on social media by Somalis.
Somaliland became its own country in 1991, but other countries do not officially accept this.
Somaliland might lease some of its coastline to Ethiopia. Somalia is upset about this because it feels like Ethiopia is trying to take its land.
Lately, the President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and the prime minister said that their families have fought against Ethiopia for a long time to protect their country. They feel they have to continue the fight.
President Mohamud said that the person causing division among our people is like an enemy. We have been fighting with them for a long time, but we are all still the same people. We should resist them.
The leaders of the country say that Ethiopia is a danger to its security. -
Sex is “a gift from God” – Pope Francis
Pope Francis said that God gave us the gift of sexual pleasure, and we should use it carefully and with patience.
He also said that watching pornography can lead to addiction because it gives pleasure without a real relationship.
The Pope was talking to a lot of people in the Vatican on Wednesday.
The sermon was about the Pope talking about the bad things caused by wanting too much pleasure.
The pope said that desire for sex ruins relationships between people and he also said that the news every day shows this.
“He asked how many good relationships have turned bad over time. ”
The Pope said this a few days after his new chief of teaching, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, was criticized for a book he wrote and published in the late 1990s called Mystical Passion: Spirituality and Sensuality.
The book is no longer available to buy. It talked about sex and gave a lot of details about how men and women feel during orgasms. Cardinal Fernández talked to a Catholic website called Crux and said he wrote the book when he was younger, and he definitely wouldn’t write it now.
Some people who have traditional views have criticized the book and said it was unsuitable for Cardinal Fernández to be in charge of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
Pope Francis and Cardinal Fernández have upset conservative Catholic people before.
In December, Cardinal Fernández made a new rule that allows priests to bless same-sex couples. Pope Francis also agreed with this rule.
Even though Cardinal Fernández said the position doesn’t make same-sex couples okay in the Catholic Church, many conservatives still think it’s a problem.
Cardinal Gerhard Müller, who was in charge of the Church’s teachings under Pope Benedict XVI, strongly criticized the Vatican’s document. Cardinal Müller said online that a priest blessing a gay union would be a very disrespectful and offensive thing to do.
“Cardinal Müller said that according to the rules for this kind of blessings, people could even give blessings to places like abortion clinics or groups like the mafia. ”
Leaders from all over the world spoke out against the decision. This includes conservative Americans who have always been against the Pope’s plans to change the Catholic Church.
Tensions got really bad when the Pope kicked a US Cardinal, Raymond Burke, out of his apartment at the Vatican and stopped paying him. -
Opposition DR Congo demands demonstrations on inauguration day
Three leaders who are against the government in the Democratic Republic of Congo want everyone in the country to protest on Saturday. This is the same day that President Félix Tshisekedi will be taking an oath for his second term as president.
He got 73% of the votes in last month’s election and won, according to the electoral commission. However, many other candidates criticized the result and asked for the election to be done again because they did not think it was fair.
Moïse Katumbi, Martin Fayulu, and Anzuluni Bembe asked people to join a protest on Saturday during an online meeting.
They said that there was cheating and adding fake votes in the election.
However, the main opposition candidates chose not to challenge the result in court, and the Constitutional Court has confirmed that Mr. Tshisekedi is the winner. -
Smuggling of oil palm products surges
The Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana (OPDAG) has expressed deep concern over the growing incidence of smuggling of oil palm products into the country. Despite numerous complaints to designated authorities, President of OPDAG, Samuel Avaala, disclosed that smugglers are utilizing unapproved routes and exploiting the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme to intensify their activities.
Mr. Avaala lamented that a policy designed by the president last year to combat oil palm smuggling has not been effectively enforced. The Association estimates that the economy loses approximately US$40 million annually due to the smuggling of finished oil palm products from Togo through various entry points in the Upper East and West Regions.
Smuggled products entering the market are priced lower, evading all taxes and duties, creating an unfair trading field that disproportionately benefits the smugglers while adversely affecting local manufacturers.
Highlighting the potential consequences, Mr. Avaala emphasized that without urgent action by authorities, numerous jobs, including those of out-grower farmers, are at risk as local producers may be forced to reduce operations or shut down.
Customs enforcement of the anti-smuggling policy, in collaboration with district security checkpoints across the country, was identified as a crucial measure to curb the ongoing smuggling activities.
Ghana ranks as the third-largest palm oil producer in West Africa, following Nigeria and Ivory Coast. The domestic consumption of refined palm oil is around 300,000 metric tonnes per annum, valued at GH¢1.3 billion. Current local production stands at approximately 120,000 metric tonnes, with imports at 150,000 metric tonnes per annum valued at US$271 million.
With local demand expected to rise, industry players are urging the government to support the sector to realize its full potential in contributing to the economy. The local oil palm industry directly employs about 50,000 people at the plantation level.
Apart from the smuggling challenge, the sector faces issues such as over 70 percent of production being in the hands of small-scale producers, and oil extraction and processing being largely carried out by small artisanal millers. The use of limited technology results in lower oil extraction rates and higher fiber content in waste.
OPDAG advocates for intensified efforts to increase production levels by at least 50 percent, emphasizing the need for the adoption of best practices at the farm and mill levels.
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Israel Gaza war: Deal to deliver aid to Gaza, including hostages
Israel and Hamas have agreed to let more help go into the damaged Gaza. Qatar helped in the making of the agreement.
They say that Hamas will give medicine to hostages with the help of Qatar and France.
In return, Israel will let more necessary things go into Gaza. The situation in the area is very bad because of three months of Israeli bombing.
The US is hopeful that more discussions could help release more hostages.
The person from the US who deals with the Middle East went to Qatar to talk about making a deal. This was mentioned by John Kirby, who works for the White House and deals with national security.
He said the conversations were “very serious and focused”. “We hope it will be successful and happen soon. ”
Hamas took people from Israel as hostages.
Before, a person from Qatar’s government named Majed Al Ansari said that an agreement about help was made.
According to the agreement, the aid items will be sent from the city of Doha in Qatar to Egypt on Wednesday. The help will be sent to Gaza to help the people who live there, and medicines will be given to Israeli prisoners.
Over 132 people are believed to still be held captive in Gaza.
Hamas caught about 240 people in a series of attacks in southern Israel on 7 October. Around 1,300 people, most of them regular people, died.
The Hostages Families HQ group wrote a letter to Israel’s war cabinet. They said that many people who had been kidnapped needed to see a doctor regularly and some were in danger right now. This was after a ceasefire ended last year.
Last week, the leader of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, said that the head of Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad, David Barnea, asked Qatar to make a deal to provide the medicines Israel needs.
On Tuesday, Mr. Netanyahu said thank you to everyone who helped.
The fighting between Hamas and Israel in October led to a lot of bombings in Gaza. More than 24,000 people have died, most of them are women and children, according to the health ministry in Gaza.
Officials from Palestine say that 85% of the people in Gaza have been forced to leave their homes. More help is reaching Gaza now, but the UN’s humanitarian boss says the situation there is very bad.
Many countries want Israel to stop fighting in Gaza because many innocent people are getting hurt.
Even the US, which is a strong supporter of Israel, has told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that too many innocent civilians are being killed.
US State Secretary Anthony Blinken said that 90% of the people are still struggling to get enough food. This is especially harmful for children and can affect them for their whole life.
“Gaza needs more food, water, medicine, and other important things. “ -
Ghana empowers women-led businesses with 10% subsidized interest rates under AfCFTA
In a significant move to support women entrepreneurs participating in the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),
The Ashanti Regional Director of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mamuda Osman, has announced a groundbreaking initiative in a significant move to support women entrepreneurs participating in the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Women-led businesses venturing into exports under AfCFTA will now have access to bank loans at a subsidized interest rate of 10 percent.
Mr Mamuda highlighted the government’s commitment to bolstering women in business, recognizing their crucial role in the nation-building process. Addressing participants at the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce/GIZ Trade Hub conference for GNCCI Women in Kumasi, he emphasized the significance of supporting women in their export endeavors.
He revealed that a special protocol for Women and Youth-led businesses, addressing their specific challenges and facilitating trade, has been negotiated under the AfCFTA agreement. This protocol is set to be adopted in the next African Union (AU) meeting for operationalization.
As part of the government’s ongoing support, Mr Mamuda assured participants that 200 companies, inclusive of women-led enterprises nationwide, have been selected to receive hands-on support under the AfCFTA agreement.
In his address, Mr Mamuda stressed the importance of women entrepreneurs in the current era of intense competition, globalization, and liberalization. He encouraged businesses to strive for excellence, develop core competencies, and gain confidence to effectively compete in both continental and global markets.
Highlighting the positive impact of successful women-led businesses on the country’s socio-economic development, Mr. Mamuda underscored the need to deliberately include women in making AfCFTA a success. He emphasized that the success of women-led businesses can contribute to reducing female dropouts in schools and diminish women’s over-reliance on men for daily survival.
Meanwhile, Victoria Hajar, the first Vice President of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industries (GNCCI), stressed the importance of inclusivity and sustainable socio-economic development for the full benefits of increased intra-African trade under AfCFTA. She acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by women in business and highlighted the immense potential of AfCFTA to harness the strength of women.
The GNCCI and GIZ Trade Hub have been proactive in supporting women-led businesses through initiatives such as sensitization programs, workshops, and seminars. The dedication of the year 2023 to a gender-focused approach aligns with the AfCFTA Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade, emphasizing gender-inclusive trade policies and gender mainstreaming in the national and regional implementation strategies of AfCFTA.
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President of Rwanda says UK could receive its money back
Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame said he might give back the money to the UK if they don’t send any asylum seekers to his country as part of their agreement.
The UK has given Rwanda £240m and will give another £50m later. No asylum seekers have been sent to the country yet.
When Kagame was asked why he was taking the money, he said, “I will only use it if those people come. ” If they don’t show up, we can give the money back.
But the government of Rwanda said there is no requirement to do it later on.
In response to what Mr. Kagame said on Wednesday, a spokeswoman said that if the UK asks for their money back, they will think about it.
The president spoke before an important vote in the government. The vote passed a law to bring back the deportation plan, which was declared illegal by the Supreme Court last year.
The new law will now be looked at closely by the House of Lords. It is expected to face a lot of disagreement there.
The Rwandan government said the money they received was for helping their country grow economically and to get ready to welcome and take care of migrants when they come.
“Rwanda doesn’t have to give back any of the money they received, according to the agreement,” said spokesperson Yolande Makolo.
If no migrants come to Rwanda as part of the plan, and the UK government wants their money back that was supposed to support the migrants, we will think about giving them a refund.
“At this time, it’s too early to discuss numbers because we’re still waiting for the UK government to finish making decisions. We are still determined to make the partnership successful. ”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak thinks that sending some asylum seekers to Rwanda will stop other people from trying to cross the Channel in small boats.
Labour says the plan is too expensive and won’t work. They would get rid of the policy if they win the election.
The problem in the UK.
On Wednesday evening, members of parliament voted to bring back the scheme, after a group of Conservative MPs who opposed it did not succeed in stopping it.
Many Conservative members of Parliament tried to change the bill, but they did not succeed. They believe that the law won’t do a good enough job of preventing individual appeals from stopping deportation flights.
Before the vote, the BBC’s Economics Editor Faisal Islam got a short interview with Paul Kagame at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
The president didn’t say how much money he could give back to the UK, or when.
Mr Kagame was asked about the current problems with the deal in his country. He said it’s not Rwanda’s problem. “He said that the UK should be asked because it is their problem, not Rwanda’s problem. “Labour’s shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves was happy that Mr. Kagame offered to give back the money. She promised to use the money to help with asylum cases and to stop criminal gangs.
She said in Davos that using the money for controlling small boat crossings would be a better idea and have a better chance of success.
‘Lost’ people looking for a safe place to stay.
Labour says the Rwanda plan will end up costing British taxpayers £400 million in the long run.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the government lost track of more than 4,000 people they were supposed to send to Rwanda.
The Daily Telegraph reported that out of 5,000 people who were supposed to be deported, only 700 are keeping in touch with officials.
Sir Keir said that spending £400 million on a plan that doesn’t help anyone in Rwanda and resulted in the loss of 4,000 people is not a real plan, it’s just a joke.
“This government spent a lot of money on a policy to remove people, but it didn’t actually remove anyone. ”
Mr Sunak supported the government’s work on immigration, then said: “It’s not fair to hear him acting like he cares about stopping the boats when he has said clearly that he would get rid of the plan even if it’s working to reduce the numbers. ”
“He doesn’t have strong beliefs or a clear plan, so we’re starting over again. ”
The Home Office told BBC that its documents were leaked to The Telegraph and are not available to the public.
It said the numbers are based on old data from last year. It didn’t say if there are new numbers or when they might be available.
The Home Office has a special team that works with the police and others to find and bring back people who have left without permission using all kinds of technology. -
Cecilia Dapaah controversy has helped Ghana’s governance system – Martin Kpebu
Renowned private legal practitioner, Martin Luther Kpebu, has underscored the significant impact of the discourse surrounding the Office of the Special Prosecutor‘s (OSP) involvement in the Cecilia Dapaah matter on Ghana’s democracy.
Mr. Kpebu emphasized that even if the state fails to secure convictions in the case, the extensive discussions it has generated will contribute to strengthening Ghana’s democracy, particularly in shaping the conduct of public officers.
The comments from Mr. Kpebu follow the recent discontinuance of the Cecilia Dapaah case by the OSP, citing that it falls outside the office’s mandate.
During an interview on Ghana Tonight on TV3 with Alfred Ocansey on January 17, 2024, Mr. Kpebu expressed the belief that the fallout from the case has served as a valuable admonishment for Ghanaian society.
He stated: “I know some people who said they knew it, I wont call them naysayers, it’s always good that we have people who have their doubts. They also serve a very critical function in our society. But we can’t say that yet. Let’s not forget the number of interviews we’ve conducted on this case both on Ghana Tonight, KeyPoints etc.”
Addressing skepticism about the outcome of the OSP’s probe, Mr. Kpebu acknowledged the doubters but stressed the critical function they play in society. He highlighted the educational aspect of the case, stating that it provided an opportunity to admonish and conscientize the public on the proper conduct expected of public officials.
“We’ve used it to admonish ourselves –abnosom. This is how not to be in public office, this is how not to conduct yourself in public office. There is huge value in it. It serves our democracy that we were talking, we were conscientizing ourselves and etc. Even if at the end of the day we don’t end up with a conviction, still, it would have served a very useful purpose. This is a case to which we’ve seen hard evidence which we can point to that people can relate. So we can use it to strengthen our governance system even without getting a conviction in court,” he explained.
The Cecilia Dapaah case, despite its discontinuance, has become a focal point for discussions on governance, accountability, and the role of institutions in upholding democratic values. As the nation reflects on the implications of this case, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to foster transparency and integrity in public service.
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CSA urged to partner with accredited professionals in combating job scams
A cybersecurity expert and President of the Cyber Security Expert Association Ghana (CSEAG), Abubakar Isaaka, has called upon the Cybersecurity Authority (CSA) to join forces with accredited professionals in the sector to apprehend individuals behind the growing threat of job scams.
Isaaka emphasized the need for a collective effort in conducting “comprehensive reconnaissance” to identify and apprehend those exploiting the current unemployment situation. He described this collaborative approach as crucial to effectively curbing the menace of job scams.
“I call upon the Cybersecurity Authority (CSA) to collaborate with accredited professionals in uniting to conduct a comprehensive reconnaissance and apprehend those behind the emerging job scams in the country,” Isaaka stated.
His plea for collaboration follows a public alert issued by the CSA concerning the escalating incidents of job scams, resulting in victims losing over GH¢124,000.
“At least 15 reports have been received through the cybercrime or cybersecurity incidents reporting points of contacts, with victims losing over GH¢124,000,” the public alert revealed.
Isaaka, who received four related complaints and similar reports from colleagues, urged citizens to report cyber and related scams, advocating for a collective approach to implement proactive measures.
He endorsed the CSA’s statement and highlighted the importance of collaborating with accredited professionals to address the pressing issue at hand.
The CSA’s public alert outlined seven common tactics employed by scammers, cautioning citizens to be vigilant about unsolicited messages offering job opportunities. It advised individuals to exercise skepticism towards high-paying jobs that require minimal work and recommended verifying job advertisements directly with the company’s official website or contact information.
Additionally, the statement urged citizens to be wary of unprofessional communication in job advertisements and emphasized refraining from sharing personal or financial information unless the legitimacy of a prospective employer is confirmed. As the CSA and industry professionals unite against job scams, the focus is on raising awareness and fostering a collective defense against cyber threats in the employment sector.
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Kenyan police officer killed by donkey-cart bomb
An explosion happened at the border between Kenya and Somalia. A bomb was attached to a donkey cart and it killed a police officer, according to local news.
Two more people got hurt, according to a post on X from the Nation newspaper.
The two donkeys that were pulling the cart are said to have lived through it.
The police were checking the things on the cart when a bomb exploded after it entered Kenya at Mandera, in the far north-east of the country.
A video shows lots of black smoke coming from where the explosion happened. Photos after the event show a donkey with marks standing.
Mandera has been attacked before by the al-Shabab group from Somalia. -
You should have kept your honesty to yourself – Dr Richard Amoako Baah lashes out at Akufo-Addo over Ekumfi comment
President Akufo-Addo‘s recent comments regarding the Ekumfi constituency have come under scrutiny, with Dr Richard Amoako Baah, a political scientist at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), expressing disapproval.
In a statement, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged diverting attention from the development challenges of Ekumfi due to the constituency’s voting out of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidate. The President highlighted that he had previously elevated the area’s Member of Parliament, Francis Kingsley Ato Cudjoe, to a ministerial position to facilitate development projects.
However, Dr Amoako Baah criticized the President’s remarks, asserting that certain utterances are unsuitable for public disclosure. He emphasized that elevating an individual to a ministerial role alone does not address the broader needs of the constituency.
Dr Amoako Baah expressed concerns, stating, “Like many things he’s said in the past, it’s not in good taste. You don’t say that when you become President of the country. You’re the President of the whole country.”
He urged the President to consider the impact of his statements on public perception, particularly in matters concerning national leadership.
President Akufo-Addo’s admission followed a plea from the Kyedomhemaa of Ekumfi traditional area, Nana Enyimfua III, for developmental projects. The queen mother highlighted unfulfilled promises made to the community since the demise of late President Mills, urging the President to honor at least one commitment.
Responding to the plea, President Akufo-Addo assured the family that he would fulfill his promise, but candidly admitted redirecting attention away from Ekumfi after the constituency voted against the NPP.
The President’s remarks have sparked a debate on the intersection of political decisions and developmental priorities, raising questions about the diplomatic articulation of such matters by public figures. As the discourse unfolds, it brings to light the delicate balance required in addressing the concerns of constituents while maintaining a national perspective in governance.
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Dozens raise fund to support Afghans living in military camps in Dorset
Many people have shown great generosity in aiding the Afghan refugees at the military camp, as stated by the council.
The Chickerell Camp near Weymouth in Dorset is now being used to provide a place to stay for people who helped the UK government and military in Afghanistan.
Chickerell Town Council is gathering clothes, shoes, and toys for people and families who need them.
Five large vans have brought donations to the camp.
Dorset Council said they will use a building in December to house people who have the right to stay in the UK. They can stay there for up to six weeks until they find a more permanent place to live.
They are helping Afghan citizens and their families who worked for or with the UK government and armed forces in important roles through the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP).
The place is being used to give them a place to stay for now until they can find a more permanent place to live.
Many people came with only a few things because they had to leave their home country when the Taliban took over in 2021. This made the Chickerell Town Council start collecting donations for them.
‘Really liked’
Town clerk Nicola Briar said: “We have received a variety of items – many warm clothes, four scooters and a nice pram. ”
She said they also got many toys that have been used in the family room.
She said they need baby clothes, baby bottles, and strollers the most right now.
“The support from people in Weymouth, Chickerell, and even Poole has been amazing and generous. ”
“The military base informed us. ” “Thank you very much. “ -
Lands Ministry contemplates levy on secondhand clothing imports to boost waste management efforts
As Ghana grapples with an escalating environmental crisis triggered by the hazardous consequences of secondhand clothing waste, a proposed levy aims to address the situation.
The once-vibrant landscapes and communities across the country now face the siege of pollution from discarded garments, a fallout of the global demand for ever-changing fashion trends.
Fast fashion has inundated Ghana with an overwhelming influx of secondhand clothing, amounting to over 150,000,000 kilograms annually, according to The Or Foundation. This influx is estimated to be equivalent to around 15 million items every week.
Alarming statistics from the organization’s position paper reveal that 40% of the average bale of clothing opened in Accra’s Kantamanto second-hand clothing market, possibly the world’s largest, ends up as waste.
Local environmentalists and concerned citizens have sounded the alarm on the detrimental effects of secondhand clothing waste, pointing to its impact on the nation’s air, water, and soil. The environmental disaster has disproportionately burdened communities that did not contribute to the problem.
In response to the crisis, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is considering imposing a levy on secondhand clothing imports. The goal is to manage waste effectively and invest in sustainable practices within the sector.
Ganyo Kwabla Malik, Plant Manager at the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant (ACARP), advocates for a stricter regime to monitor imports and suggests the introduction of a levy. Malik emphasizes that such a levy could be utilized to fund the retrieval and processing of used materials into reusable resources, providing a sustainable solution.
The urgency for intervention is underscored by the role clothing waste played in the 2019 Kpone Landfill fire. Fashion waste, constituting approximately 20% of the landfill’s intended capacity, overwhelmed the landfill’s systems and contributed to its closure. The fire further underscored the need for sustainable waste management practices.
However, those involved in the secondhand clothing ecosystem express concern over a staggering 153% surge in import duty, warning of potential job losses. The Ghana Used Clothing Association (GAUCA) reports a significant increase in import duty costs, driven by factors such as currency depreciation, high inflation, and a challenging economic environment.
The proposed levy stands at the intersection of environmental conservation and economic considerations, sparking a national conversation on the need for sustainable practices in the secondhand clothing industry. As the government contemplates the way forward, it faces the delicate task of balancing environmental responsibility with the livelihoods of those dependent on the industry.
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Besigye and Bobi Wine blocked ahead of Ugandan protests
Ugandan police have stopped opposition leaders from leaving their homes before a protest in Kampala.
Both experienced opposition leader Kizza Besigye and Bobi Wine, a former pop star also known as Robert Kyagulanyi, say that security forces are surrounding their houses and not allowing them to go out.
“The scared soldiers and police have surrounded our house and won’t let us leave, but we are still protesting,” Mr Kyagulanyi posted on X.
Mr Besigye also posted some pictures of security officers blocking his home’s entrance.
“Trapped at home by the cowards. We won’t give up; we deserve better,” he wrote with the pictures.
The two people who are not happy with the government want Ugandans to join them in a protest on Thursday. They want the government to fix the old and broken roads.
The police said they will stop the protests because they are organized by politicians and are not peaceful. They are worried it will cause trouble for an important meeting in the capital.
About 4,000 representatives are going to the 19th Non-Aligned Movement meeting in Kampala. -
New charges brought against Nigeria’s former central bank governor
The Nigerian government has accused Godwin Emefiele, the former head of the central bank, of 14 new crimes. He was arrested last June, shortly after President Bola Tinubu became the president.
The couple had a difficult relationship before last year’s election. He was first told to leave and then fired four months ago.
In November, Mr Emefiele was accused of committing fraud by the EFCC. He is facing six charges for stealing 1. 2 billion naira ($1. 3 million, £11 million)
When the court started again in Abuja, the EFCC lawyer said the charges were changed to include forgery, betraying trust, getting money by lying, and giving bribes.
The new fees come after a group of people chosen by the president looked into possible bad actions at the central bank and made a report.
Mr Emefiele’s lawyer, Matthew Burkaa, said he needs time to look at the new charges before his client can say if he is guilty or not.
In December, the 62-year-old banker was allowed to leave jail as long as he stayed in the capital city.
During the hearing on Thursday, the rules were changed so that he can travel anywhere in the country now.
The trial was rescheduled for Friday. -
Chamber of Mines expects gold output to exceed 4.5m ounces in 2024
The Ghana Chamber of Mines is anticipating a robust outlook for the mining sector, forecasting gold production to surpass 4.5 million ounces in the year 2024.
Despite economic challenges facing the nation, the mining sector experienced growth in 2023, as reported by the Chamber.
President of the Chamber, Joshua Mortoti, has disclosed that small-scale mining companies are projected to contribute between 1.1 million and 1.3 million ounces of gold in 2024. In parallel, large-scale gold mining firms are expected to account for a production of 3.4 million ounces.
“The latter mines [Obuasi, Tarkwa] are approaching their end of life span. With a projected output range of 1.1 million ounces to 1.3 million ounces in 2024 from the small-scale sector, the national gold output is expected to exceed 4.5 million ounces in 2024. Including manganese production, the planned output for 2024 is 5 million tonnes,” he said.
Highlighting collaborative achievements, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, acknowledged substantial successes in the past year between the government and the Chamber. He emphasized that 2024 presents an opportunity to enhance and optimize cooperative endeavors aimed at creating conducive conditions for the efficient and profitable operations of large-scale mining firms.
“What I can assure you is that the government is fully committed to providing adequate security for your concessions. Because it is when your concessions are safe that you can work in peace to support the government. So, whatever we need to do to ensure that your concessions are safe, we will do it”, he stated.
“And in this regard, I will continue to count on the leadership of the Chamber. If there are specific or special cases, we need to deal with let us know and we will take the necessary steps to deal with them”, he added.
According to the third-quarter 2023 data, production attributable to the Ghana Chamber of Mines member businesses was 2.14 million ounces, which is marginally less than the 2.18 million ounces recorded in 2022 for the same period.
In the meantime, production from small-scale miners increased from 0.66 million ounces in 2022 to 1.12 million ounces in 2023, a 70.6% rise.
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Teens punished over K-dramas depicted in rare North Korea video
Exclusive video from the media shows North Korea punishing two young boys by making them work hard for 12 years because they were caught watching K-dramas.
The video, which seems to be from 2022, shows two 16-year-old boys with handcuffs in front of lots of students at a stadium outside.
It also shows police officers scolding the boys for not thinking about their mistakes.
North Korea does not allow South Korean entertainment, including TV shows, to be shown in the country.
Even though it’s risky, some people are still willing to break the rules to watch K-dramas, which are really popular worldwide.
There aren’t many videos like this because North Korea doesn’t allow photos or videos of life there to be shared with the outside world.
The media got this video from a research institute called South and North Development (Sand) that helps people who have left North Korea.
It means that the authorities are taking stricter action against these incidents. The video has been spread in North Korea to teach people about the government’s beliefs and to tell them not to watch inappropriate videos.
The video has someone talking and saying the government’s messages over and over again. “The bad government’s culture has even reached young people,” says the speaker, talking about South Korea. “They are only 16 years old, but they have messed up their future,” it says.
The police named the boys and told everyone where they live.
In the past, kids who broke the law like this would go to special camps instead of jail, and the punishment was usually less than five years.
In 2020, Pyongyang made a law that says people can be killed for watching or sharing South Korean movies or TV shows.
A person who left their country’s side said to the BBC that they were made to watch a 22-year-old man get killed. He said the man did something wrong by listening to music from South Korea and sharing movies from there with his friend.
Sand CEO Choi Kyong-hui said that North Korea sees K-dramas and K-pop as a threat to its beliefs.
“Looking up to South Korean society too much can make the system weaker soon. ” She said this is not good because it goes against the belief in North Korea that the Kim family is very important.
North Koreans began to experience South Korean movies and music in the 2000s, when the South gave aid to the North without asking for anything in return.
Seoul stopped giving aid to North Korea in 2010 because they found out that the help was not reaching the regular people it was meant for, and it was not making North Korea behave better.
However, entertainment from South Korea kept getting to North Korea through China.
“If you’re caught watching an American drama, you might be able to bribe your way out of trouble. But if you watch a Korean drama, you could get killed,” said a North Korean defector in an interview with BBC Korean.
North Korean people love Korean dramas because they help them forget about their tough lives, a person who escaped from North Korea said.
“In North Korea, we are told that South Korea has a worse life than us, but when we watch South Korean TV shows, it seems like a totally different world. ” Another person who escaped from North Korea in her twenties said that it seems like the North Korean authorities are cautious about that. -
Trade Minister convenes meeting with cement manufacturers to address escalating prices
In a collaborative effort to address key facets of the cement industry, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) and the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) have reached an agreement to conduct regular consultative meetings with various industry stakeholders.
These sessions aim to foster discussions on advancements in cement manufacturing, bagging, and distribution within the Ghanaian market.
In a proactive move to tackle significant industry concerns, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) and the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) have formalized an agreement to convene periodic consultative meetings.
This strategic initiative is aimed at addressing crucial matters within the sector, particularly in anticipation of ex-factory price adjustments by individual companies.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI), Minister K.T Hammond convened the meeting to articulate apprehensions regarding the escalating retail prices of cement and its consequential adverse economic effects.
Expressing bewilderment, he questioned the rationale behind the sale of a bag of cement at GHS95.00, particularly in certain regions, including the Accra/Tema Municipalities.
“The Minister entreated the industry to take cognisance of the widespread effects of price escalation and the need to closely monitor and exercise control over the recommended ex-factory price margins of distributors and retailers of their respective grades of products across the country”.
According to the statement, the stakeholders agreed on some specific measures agreed on for urgent implementation include the following to stabilize prices.
It pointed out that Individual companies are to publish the recommended distribution and retail prices of the various grades of products sold in each of their respective distribution zones.
Companies are also required to vigorously enforce quality standards and weights of cement products on the market to clamp down on the production and distribution of substandard cement products.
In addition, stakeholders are expected to collaborate on exploring the possibility of introducing a uniform cement pricing formula that ensures uniformity and consistency in retail pricing across the country, taking into account key cost variables.
“The Ministry would like to assure the consuming public that these and any other measures necessary will be implemented in collaboration with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana, to ensure price adjustments are justifiable and within reasonable limits”, the statement ended.