TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • Banking industry defies economic downturn as total assets hit 42% of GDP in October

    Despite substantial shocks in the larger economy, the country’s banking sector fared brilliantly in the first 10 months of the year, especially over the third quarter, according to data just issued by the Bank of Ghana (BoG).

    Banks in the nation survived the effects of the pandemic and deteriorating macroeconomic conditions to report robust asset growth and improved profitability in the period under consideration thanks to strengthening across the board during and after the sector shake-up.

    Between October 2021 and October 2022, the value of the banking sector’s assets increased collectively by 43.7 percent to reach GH 249.9 billion, or 42.2 percent of the revised 2022 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) projection of GH 592 billion.

    “Underpinning the growth in assets was sustained growth in deposits and borrowings, as well as the revaluation effect of the foreign currency component of key balance sheet indicators,” BoG Governor Dr. Ernest Addsion said at a press briefing after the 109th meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).

    Providing further details, he stated that total deposits and borrowing grew by 46.5 and 17.2 percent respectively to hit GH¢172.1billion and GH¢30.4billion at the end of October 2022.

    The industry remained profitable, posting a cumulative post-tax profit of GH¢4.4billion; a 17.2 percent rise over the 10 percent growth during the same period last year. Profitability was underpinned by net interest income, which grew by 22.7 percent to GH¢12.8billion.

    Also, net fees and commissions grew to GH¢2.9billion – raising operating income by 27 percent in the process.

    Financial Soundness

    The industry’s Financial Soundness Indicators were a mixed-bag but remained “broadly positive” as the Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio improved from 16.4 percent in October 2021 to 14 percent in October this year – attributed to the higher growth in credit relative to increase in the NPL stock.

    However, the currency depreciation and mark-to-market investment losses by some banks ensured the industry’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) shrank from 19.8 percent to 14.2 percent on a year-on-year basis; it however remained above the prudential minimum threshold of 13 percent.

    The central bank was however quick to note that despite the 10-month performance, key indicators are pointing to a slowdown in the industry; with macroeconomic headwinds expected to take a toll on the performance of banks as well as credit to the private sector.

    “There are strong signs of emerging spillover effects from the recent macroeconomic challenges,” the BoG Governor remarked.

    Credit performance

    The BoG however noted that in its latest survey of credit conditions conducted in October 2022, commercial lenders are expecting to persist with tightening credit to businesses and households over the next six months.

    “This is expected to reflect in a steady increase in average lending rates and a marginal decline in credit demand by enterprises and households,” Dr. Addison added.

    Already, the interbank weighted average rate has increased to 23.98 percent in October 2022 from 12.66 percent a year ago – in tandem with hikes to the monetary policy rate and central bank-mandated hikes in the Cash Reserve Ratio from 12 percent in August 2022 to 14 percent in October.

    As such, average lending rates across the industry rose from 20.34 percent to 31.4 percent YoY.

  • St. Francis College of Education students vow to boycott exams

    The St. Francis College of Education’s teacher candidates have announced that they would boycott their end-of-semester examinations planned for today, December 5, 2022, owing to the lecturers’ ongoing strike.

    The trainees claim that since they haven’t had any contact time because of the upcoming strike, they are emotionally unprepared to take any tests.

    The previous three weeks have seen a walkout by lecturers at various institutes of education around the nation for unpaid allowances.

    The University of Cape Coast’s examination board was urged to reverse its decision to move the tests to next year in a statement to Citi News by the level 200 and 300 trainees on campus.

    “In fact, other universities, Winneba, UDS, have suspended their examination because of what is happening, and it’s only UCC that is forcing us to write exams, and we think this is not fair, we are not waiting for this exam until our lecturers are back in the classroom to complete our syllabus.”

    University labor unions have been on strike for more than three weeks because, in their opinion, the government has failed to uphold the agreed-upon terms of employment.

    The union had raised concerns about the adjusted ex-pump rate of GH¢10.99 being implemented to affect Vehicle Maintenance and Off-Campus Allowances.

     

  • Economic activities slow down amid tighter monetary policy stance

    Real Composite Index of Economic Activity (CIEA) data from the central bank show that economic activity has declined for two consecutive quarters, declining by 1.2 percent in the third quarter of 2022.

    The Bank of Ghana’s Summary of Macroeconomic and Financial Data shows that this contraction is lower than both the 11.1 percent recorded a year earlier and the 1.6 percent recorded at the midpoint of 2022.

    Later this month, Ghana Statistical Services (GSS) will formally disclose its gross domestic product (GDP) data, which will be preceded by data from the BoG, which primarily signals the potential outcomes of growth.

    Largely, the latest high-frequency indicators as measured by the Bank point to some moderation on the back of weakened consumption, trade and construction activities.

    “Domestic economic activity has moderated somewhat. High-frequency indicators monitored by the Bank signalled some moderation in economic activity in the third quarter relative to first two quarters of the year. The main indicators that dragged down the Index were domestic VAT, ports activity and cement sales,” Dr. Ernest Addison, Governor of the BoG, said in a statement at press briefing following the 109th meeting of the monetary policy committee.

    “These trends signal that growth may remain below potential levels on account of rising cost of living amid significant uncertainty in the outlook. Both business and consumer sentiments continue to soften and remain at low levels,” the Governor stated.

    Despite these trends, Dr. Addison mentioned that private sector credit growth, in real terms, remains relatively strong – and this provides scope for the real sector to continue on the path of sustaining a positive outlook for economic activity.

    BoG’s hawkish inflation stance impacts growth

    The BoG’s hawkish stance on inflation continues to pose significant risk to growth, which is now secondary to the central bank’s focus. The MPC concluded its last meetings of the year by raising the benchmark interest rate by another 250 basis points (bps) to 27 percent to continue its fight against surging inflation and re-anchor inflation expectations.

    This brings the full-year rate increases to a historic 1,250bps (12.50 percent) in 2022.

    During the policy rate announcement, the committee said it expects a possible peaking of headline inflation in Q1-2023 to settle at around 25 percent by end of Q3-2023 in their baseline scenario. However, implementation of the 2.5 percent increment in VAT and the pass-through effects of exchange rate losses remain significant risks.

    Global Growth

    Two years since outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia-Ukraine war, the global economy continues to face severe headwinds coupled with heightened uncertainties. Global growth has slowed, with recession concerns dominating markets in the near-term.

    Moreover, central banks’ resolve to dampen the persistent and broad-based inflation pressures globally has led to aggressive policy-tightening in advanced economies.

    The US Federal Reserve has frontloaded its policy-tightening cycle, resulting in tight global financing conditions and a stronger US dollar against major international currencies. These developments have spilled over into currency pressures and imported inflation, complicated access to external capital markets and resulted in acute capital outflows, especially in emerging markets and frontier economies.

    Risks to the global outlook are firmly on the downside, reflecting the possibility of policy mistakes amid deteriorating growth and elevated inflation, tighter financing conditions and a stronger US dollar.

    “These external shocks have had severe consequences on the Ghanaian economy, reflected in high and rising inflation from exchange rate pass-through effects and a complicated policy environment,” the Governor said.

  • World Cup 2022: Spain cannot repeat mistakes from Japan collapse against Morocco – Rodri

    Spain midfielder Rodri has urged his side to learn from the shock 2-1 loss to Japan ahead of their round of 16 clash against Morocco at the 2022 World Cup on Tuesday.

    The tournament favourites lost to Japan in the final group game after the Asian side scored two quick-fire goals, having taken an early lead.

    As a result of the defeat, Spain finished second in their group

    .

    “Now a new competition is beginning. There is always analysis on what we can improve on, even after the games when we’ve played well,” Rodri told reporters ahead of Tuesday’s game against Morocco who surprisingly topped Group F.

    “The other day there weren’t that many things to improve on because it was a 10-minute collapse and this is what we have to do better. We’ve been warned that this cannot happen again.

    “The coach has been clear, the players have assumed responsibility and we’re training happily, wanting to be in the next round and knowing that we can get there.”

  • ADB’s investment in agriculture totals GHS 993 million

    According to the newly appointed Managing Director of ADB, Ahaji Alhassan Yakubu-Tali, overall investment into the agricultural sector by the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) over the past six years has seen steady growth. The total agricultural loan stock increased from GH453.20 million in December 2016 to GH993.50 million by the end of the third quarter this year.

    Alhaji Yakubu-Tali claims that this sum does not include the large amounts of unfunded facilities, such as letters of credit and guarantees provided for the purchase of agricultural inputs, machinery, equipment, and raw materials.

    Alhaji Yakubu-Tali, who was addressing participants 13th National Farmer’s Forum in Koforidua on Thursday, December 1 said: “The over-119 percent increase in agric finance has come on the back of our strategy to refocus the bank onto its original mandate of providing financial intermediation to the sector and to do more in the coming years”.

    Explaining the need for increased funding into the sector amid the current global challenges, Mr. Yakubu-Tali called for more investments into the sector to improve food security and engender a shift from the traditional production of raw materials to value addition for both local consumption and export to earn forex.

    “As the new Managing Director of ADB, I wish to promise our farmers, fishers and all players within the agric value chain that the bank will continue to position itself well enough to provide the needed support for growth of the sector,” he assured.

    Bank’s applaud government for GH¢500m agro-credit scheme

    Following presentation of the 2023 budget, ADB indicated that it welcomes government’s pledge to establish a GH¢500million special credit programme through the Development Bank Ghana (DBG) to focus on poultry, rice and cereals, and some other sectors of the economy.

    This initiative by government, according to Mr. Yakubu-Tali, will tremendously de-risk financing for agriculture with government’s pledge to introduce an agricultural insurance product through the Ghana Agricultural insurance pool with an additional estimated amount of US$400million.

    The global economic challenges, he said, present a perfect opportunity for the agric sector to reposition itself for growth, adding: “There is also a need to improve on value addition to our farm produce in order to earn more as a country.

    “I am glad to reiterate that ADB has been a key driver of the 1D1F policy initiative, as well as other government policies designed to facilitate value addition and overall growth of the sector,” Mr. Yakubu-Tali stated.

    The new ADB boss commended government through the Ministry of Food and Agriculture led by sector minister Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto and the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Madam Mavis Hawa Koomson; Deputy Ministers and other Directors at both ministries for their hard work and contributions to the sector.

  • Ghana has declared domestic debt default – Ato Forson

    Cassiel Ato Forson, the ranking member of the Parliament’s Finance Committee, came to the conclusion that Ghana had declared a “domestic DEBT DEFAULT.”

    His opinions were circulated on social media following the December 4 announcement of a domestic debt exchange by Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta.

    Sadly, Ghana has announced a domestic DEBT DEFAULT.
    Tomorrow, Ghana is likely to receive a D rating from rating agencies.

    A sad day for banks, investors, and Ghanaians, the author’s post from December 4, 2022; read.
    A video of Ofori-four-minute Atta’s announcement accompanied it.

    What Ofori-Atta said:

    The Minister of Finance announced a number of measures under government’s Domestic Debt Exchange (DDE) programme late Sunday.

    He stated in a 4-minute address that the announcement was in line with government’s Debt Sustainability Analysis as contained in the 2023 budget he presented to Parliament on November 24.

    The Minister laid out among others the exchange of existing domestic bonds with four new ones as well as their maturity dates and terms of coupon payments.

    He also addressed the overarching goal of the government relative to its engagements with the International Monetary Fund as well as measures to minimize impact of domestic bond exchange on different stakeholders.

    “The Government of Ghana has been working hard to minimize the impact of the domestic debt exchange on investors holding government bonds, particularly small investors, individuals, and other vulnerable groups,” he said before outlining three main measures:

    • Treasury Bills are completely exempted and all holders will be paid the full value of their investments on maturity.

    • There will be NO haircut on the principal of bonds.

    • Individual holders of bonds will not be affected.

  • Iran to disband morality police amid ongoing protests, says attorney general

    Iran’s morality police, which is tasked with enforcing the country’s Islamic dress code, is being disbanded, the country’s attorney general says.

    Mohammad Jafar Montazeri’s comments, yet to be confirmed by other agencies, were made at an event on Sunday.

    Iran has seen months of protests over the death of a young woman in custody.

    Mahsa Amini had been detained by the morality police for allegedly breaking strict rules on head coverings.

    Mr Montazeri was at a religious conference when he was asked if the morality police was being disbanded.

    “The morality police had nothing to do with the judiciary and have been shut down from where they were set up,” he said.

    Control of the force lies with the interior ministry and not with the judiciary.

    On Saturday, Mr Montazeri also told the Iranian parliament the law that requires women to wear hijabs would be looked at.

    Even if the morality police is shut down this does not mean the decades-old law will be changed.

    Women-led protests, labelled “riots” by the authorities, have swept Iran since 22-year-old Amini died in custody on 16 September, three days after her arrest by the morality police in Tehran.

    Her death was the catalyst for the unrest but it also follows discontent over poverty, unemployment, inequality, injustice and corruption.

    ‘A revolution is what we have’

    If confirmed, the scrapping of the morality police would be a concession but there are no guarantees it would be enough to halt the protests, which have seen demonstrators burn their head coverings.

    “Just because the government has decided to dismantle morality police it doesn’t mean the protests are ending,” one Iranian woman told the BBC World Service’s Newshour programme.

    “Even the government saying the hijab is a personal choice is not enough. People know Iran has no future with this government in power. We will see more people from different factions of Iranian society, moderate and traditional, coming out in support of women to get more of their rights back.”

    Another woman said: “We, the protesters, don’t care about no hijab no more. We’ve been going out without it for the past 70 days.

    “A revolution is what we have. Hijab was the start of it and we don’t want anything, anything less, but death for the dictator and a regime change.”

    Iran has had various forms of “morality police” since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, but the latest version – known formally as the Gasht-e Ershad – is currently the main agency tasked enforcing Iran’s Islamic code of conduct.

    They began their patrols in 2006 to enforce the dress code which also requires women to wear long clothes and forbids shorts, ripped jeans and other clothes deemed immodest.

    Source: BBC

  • Camidoh’s top 5 listenership on Spotify does not include Ghana – Report

    Music streaming platform, Spotify, in its latest report has shown that Camidoh’s listenership does not include Ghana in his top 5 most streamed countries.

    According to #SportifyWrapped, the top five countries out of the 183 where the ‘Sugarcane’ hitmaker’s songs were heard the most are the United Kingdom, United States, Netherlands, France and Nigeria.

    The platform also revealed that Camidoh had 30.6 million streams and 3.5 million listeners across 183 countries.

    It is entirely unclear whether or not the listeners in the countries indicated are of Ghanaian origin.

    The release has further generated conversation on whether Ghanaians support our musical acts or otherwise. Since Nigeria is captured in the top 5 countries, some fans have linked Camidoh’s incessant features with Nigerians as the plausible reason.

    Earlier this year, Camidoh became only the second Ghanaian artist to top Apple Music’s top 100 in Nigeria with his ‘Sugarcane Remix’, which featured Nigeria’s Mayorkun, UK-based singer Darko, and Ghana’s own vocalist, King Promise.

    Camidoah’s latest feature, ‘Fire Down’, is with a Nigerian singer and songwriter, T.I Blaze.

    Find out what some fans had to say below.

  • Forex Bureaus sell $1 at GH¢14.20, BoG at GH¢13.11 as of December 5

    The Interbank forex rates from the Bank of Ghana today, December 5, 2022, have shown that the Ghana Cedi is trading against the dollar at a buying price of 13.0973 and a selling price of 13.1105.

    As compared to Friday’s trading of a buying price of 13.0973 and a selling price of 13.1105. At a forex bureau in Accra, the dollar is being bought at a rate of 13.50 and sold at a rate of 14.20.

    Against the Pound Sterling, the Cedi is trading at a buying price of 16.0259 and a selling price of 16.0446 as compared to Friday’s trading of a buying price of 15.6834 and a selling price of 15.7004.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, the pound sterling is being bought at a rate of 16.40 and sold at a rate of 17.20.

    The Euro is trading at a buying price of 13.7314 and a selling price of 13.7462 as compared to Friday’s trading of a buying price of 13.5751 and a selling price of 13.5875.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, Euro is being bought at a rate of 13.40 and sold at a rate of 14.10.

    The South African Rand is trading at a buying price of 0.7412 and a selling price of 0.7420 as compared to Friday’s trading of a buying price of 0.7728 and a selling price of 0.7734.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, South African Rand is being bought at a rate of 0.65 and sold at a rate of 1.10.

    The Nigerian Naira is trading at a buying price of 33.8411 and a selling price of 33.9670 as compared to yesterday’s trading at a buying price of 33.9146 and a selling price of 33.9459.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, Nigerian Naira is being bought at a rate of 16.00 Naira for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 20.50.

    For the CFA, it is trading at a buying price of 47.7192 and a selling price of 47.7706.

    At a forex bureau in Accra, CFA is being bought at a rate of 18.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 23.50 CFA for every 1 Cedi.

     

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Ghana to produce dialysate to manage high cost of dialysis – Dr Bawumia

    The government is looking into ways it can provide dialysis at a reasonable price due to the high cost of treating kidney disease.

    According to Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, government is hoping to achieve this by facilitating the production of dialysate, a solution of pure water, electrolytes, and salts used in dialysis.

    Speaking at a public symposium held last Thursday in Accra by the Ghana Kidney Association and the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons to commemorate the 50th anniversary of dialysis in Ghana, the Vice President urged the private sector to work with the government to achieve affordable healthcare for kidney disease patients.

    “One of the lessons we learnt from Covid-19 was the need to build our capacity to produce vaccines. Last week, for example, we had a meeting where we were looking at the progress on vaccine manufacturing in Ghana. One of the lessons we learned is that the COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing is actually a lot more complicated than if we were to manufacture some of the consumables for dialysis in Ghana.” 

    “I believe very, very firmly that in collaboration with the private sector, what we have done to bring in vaccine manufacturing in Ghana, we can do the same for Dialysate manufacturing,” he said.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia explained, that due to the current state of the local currency, the cost of importing the materials needed for dialysis has shot up significantly.

    He is optimistic that Ghana will soon independently ensure that citizens in dire need of dialysis will have easy access at subsidised rates compared to the current prices.

    “We can do it. It’s less complicated than what we have for vaccines. And so government would be prepared to support in whatever way to make sure we manufacture here,” he stressed.

    It is reported that 14 percent of the population suffers from a chronic kidney disease. A kidney patient is expected to pay between GH₵400 and GH₵595 for three dialysis sessions per week.

    On average, one is supposed to pay GH₵4,800 per month and over GH₵50,000 for dialysis services per year. 

    In the meantime, the government is considering including dialysis on the list of treatments covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

    “One of the issues that have come up here is the request for the government to take steps to make sure that the NHIS is able to cover dialysis treatment. This is a very good point, and I think that at the very least, the NHIS at least could cover treatment for children on dialysis to start with,” the Vice President mentioned.

    Dr Bawumia, however, noted that the NHIS would not be able to cater for such extra expense, and thus called on citizens to be willing to pay a litte more to ensure the Scheme caters for dialysis. 

    “Whilst we also advocate for the NHIS to come in for dialysis treatment, we should also think about their finances and also advocate for more financing for the NHIS to make whatever challenges they take on sustainable. We don’t want to break the NHIS in the process; then everybody loses out,” he said.

    He recalled when the NHIS sought to cover childhood cancers, but faced difficulties in funding the tests that had to be carried out.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • VIDEO: Watch Philip Yeboah’s strike for Mantova in away win over Renate

    Ghanaian international, Philip Yeboah was on target for Mantova on Sunday and helped the side to defeat Renate in the Italian Serie C.

    The forward started for his team in the round 17 game of the Italian Serie C and lasted the entire duration of the game.

    In a game where Mantova played as the away side, the team put up an impressive performance and had the chance to score after nine minutes when they were awarded a penalty kick.

    Filippo Guccione accepted the responsibility from 12 yards and scored to give the visitors the lead.

     

    Later in the second half, Luca Paudice equalised in the 61st minute to double the lead for Mantova.

    With Ghanaian attacker Philip Yeboah finding the back of the Renate net in the 73rd minute, it sealed the win for his club.

    Despite Renate grabbing a consolation through Daniele Sorientino ten minutes later, it could not change the outcome of the match. Mantova held on to secure all three points on the back of a 3-1 win.

    During the match, another Ghanaian, Davis Mensah came on in the 72nd minute to replace Luca Paudice to play for the winners.

    Watch Philip Yeboah’s goal for Mantova in away win over Renate below:

  • Don’t dare touch our pensions – Health Services workers warn gov’t

    The Health Services Workers Union has issued a stern warning to the government not to touch their pensions as part of a debt-reduction plan.

    Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, In his presentation of the 2023 budget statement, proposed a debt restructure for domestic bondholders in terms of interest payments.

    As a result, about 94% of Tier 2 payments earmarked for government security are anticipated to be impacted.

    However, Franklin Owusu Ansah, General Secretary of the Health Services Workers’ Organization (HSWU), stated during a news conference on Sunday, December 4, that the union will oppose any attempt by the government to interfere with their pensions.

    “Workers were made to believe that there will be no haircuts. The President of Ghana reassured and reaffirmed to workers on this…the attempt to touch the pensions in the quest to restructure debts means the government is tampering with the present and the future of workers. Pensions and Investments are being put at risk by the actions of the government.

    “We shall resist any attempt by the government to give any kind of haircut whatsoever on pension because our future is at risk. Workers of Ghana cannot continue to suffer to the grave, enough is enough.”

  • NPA increases UPPF, BOST margins on fuel

    Oil Marketing Companies (OMC) and other industry players have been directed to increase the Unified Petroleum Price Fund (UPPF) and Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited’s (BOST) margin on fuel.

    The Unified Petroleum Price Fund Margin is a margin incorporated in the build-up of petroleum prices to compensate transporters who move petroleum products far into the hinterland and other parts of the country, while the BOST Margin is a tax imposed on petroleum products used to cover the maintenance and operating costs of petroleum product depots and undertake expansion programmes at depots.

    In a letter dated November 30, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) instructed OMCs to increase the UPPF margin from 36 pesewas to 47 pesewas on every litre of fuel sold at the pumps.

    The reviewed UPPF margin, which was 36 pesewas on petrol and diesel, will now be 47 pesewas each.

    Kerosene, LPG, and premix fuel have also gone up by 11 pesewas.

    The recent UPPF revision, according to NPA, is to ensure that freight rates reflect the current economic crisis in the country.

    The Authority also asked industry players to increase the BOST margin by 2 pesewas, from 9 pesewas to 11 pesewas.

    This is the second time this year that the National Petroleum Authority has increased the UPPF.

    On July 1, 2022, NPA adjusted the prices of UPPF from 20 pesewas to 29 pesewas for petrol and diesel.

    The margin on kerosene and LPG was increased from 21 pesewas and 18 pesewas to 30 pesewas and 27 pesewas, respectively.

     This development might force some oil marketing companies to reverse the recent reduction in prices at the pumps.

    Prices of fuel products, on November 30, 2022, started seeing some reductions. Diesel was selling at ₵19.77, while petrol went for ₵16.26.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • World Cup 2022: Otto Addo reunites with family after group-stage exit

    Coach Otto Addo has reunited with his wife and kids in Germany after Ghana’s early exit from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

    The 47-year-old failed to lead the Black Stars past the group stage after losing their final group game to Uruguay on Friday.

    After the game, coach Addo confirmed he would be leaving his role as Ghana coach at end of his contract.

    Ghana finished bottom of Group H with three points after losing to Portugal and Uruguay, having beaten South Korea in between.

    He replaced Milovan Rajevac in February, initially as interim boss, and was given a deal until the end of December.

    Coach Otto Addo’s departure means Ghana act move quickly to get a new coach in place before they continue their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in March.

    He won four games during his time with the Black Stars, beating Madagascar and South Korea in competitive games with the other victories coming against Nicaragua and Switzerland in friendlies.

    He masterminded Ghana’s qualification to the World Cup by beating Nigeria in March.

  • ‘I misspoke and you misunderstood me’ – Actress Habiba Sinare apologizes for ‘hateful’ comments

    Actress Habiba Sinare has issued an apology for what she said about Northerners in a viral video clip chopped off from an old interview.

    Her views deemed tribalistic and in part denigrating included that some northerners are difficult to deal with whiles recounting how her in-laws had sought to control her life as a young wife and mother, having married at the age of 19.

    She is the ex-wife of former Black Stars player, Abdul Majeed Waris.

    In a post on her Facebook wall published late Sunday, December 4, 2022; she explained that those views were shared in an interview that had been shot long back and that the contents had trended and died down.

    “That interview was granted a long time ago and those that are close to me figured that out. It attracted attention, discussed and abandoned. Why the bloggers chose to rehash an old story at this time, I’m unable to say,” the post read in part.

    She also gave copious reasons why her views did not reflect someone who in anyway hated people from the north, as a northerner, having married from there, having a son who is a Dagomba and working with people from the north in the line of her professional and humanitarian work.

    “In that same video I have spoken highly of my ex- husband and his brother. I guess you know they are Northerners. Why is that portion not trending? Maybe it’s because bad story sells and sells faster,” the post added.

    Habiba weighed in on how she has worked to better integrate into the North including learing a different language before issuing an unreserved apology to persons who found her views offensive.

    “I have learnt and speak my Dagbani language ( broken one though)

    “For those who are genuinely piqued , I NEVER meant to insult, denigrate or stereotype any group of people and I apologize unreservedly and unconditionally.

    “I misspoke and you misunderstood me. But for those who are waiting to roast me for no reason, I forgive you,” the post concluded.

  • King Ayisoba, Article Wan and others rock maiden Jollof and Afrobeat festival

    The maiden edition of the Jollof and Afrobeat festival witnessed musical thrills from some of Ghana‘s finest musicians.

    The festival staged at the Page Center lived up to the billing as the likes of King Ayisoba, Article Wan, Kurl Songx, J Derobie, and DJ Azonto, among others, thrilled music lovers with some amazing performances.

    It was a memorable day for patrons of the festival as they were treated to some good Ghanaian music.

    King Ayisoba, Article Wan and others rock maiden Jollof and Afrobeat festival
    The music festival was preceded by an exhibition of arts and culture as people were allowed to sample the different kinds of jollof rice from various food vendors.

    The Jollof and Afrobeat festival would be nurtured to become a global event that can be held annually in many countries of the world, such as Spain, Portugal, and others.

  • FULL TEXT: Ofori-Atta’s address on Ghana’s Domestic Debt Exchange

    Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta on Sunday, December 4, 2022; announced a number of measures under government’s Domestic Debt Exchange (DDE) programme.

    He stated in a 4-minute address that the announcement was in line with government’s Debt Sustainability Analysis as contained in the 2023 budget he presented to Parliament on November 24.

    The Minister laid out among others the exchange of existing domestic bonds with four new ones as well as their maturity dates and terms of coupon payments.

    He also addressed the overarching goal of the government relative to its engagements with the International Monetary Fund as well as measures to minimize impact of domestic bond exchange on different stakeholders.

     

    Announcement by Ken Ofori-Atta,

    Hon Minister for Finance

    Ghana’s Domestic Debt Exchange

    4th December 2022

    Good Evening Ghanaians,

     

    In the Budget Statement presented to Parliament on November 24th, I announced that government will undertake a debt operation programme.

    The broad contours of the Debt Sustainability Analysis has been concluded and I am here this evening to provide some details on Ghana’s Domestic Debt Exchange which will be launched tomorrow. External debt restructuring parameters will be presented in due course.

    Under the Programme, domestic bondholders will be asked to exchange their instruments for new ones. Existing domestic bonds as of 1st December, 2022 will be exchanged for a set of four new bonds maturing in 2027, 2029, 2032 and 2037.

    The annual coupon on all of these new bonds will be set at 0% in 2023, 5% in 2024 and 10% from 2025 until maturity. Coupon payments will be semi-annual.

    Our commitment to Ghanaians and the investor community, in line with negotiations with the IMF, is to restore macroeconomic stability in the shortest possible time and enable investors to realize the benefits of this Debt Exchange.

    The Government of Ghana has been working hard to minimize the impact of the domestic debt exchange on investors holding government bonds, particularly small investors, individuals, and other vulnerable groups.

    In line with this:

    • Treasury Bills are completely exempted and all holders will be paid the full value of their investments on maturity.

    • There will be NO haircut on the principal of bonds.

    • Individual holders of bonds will not be affected.

    The Government recognizes that our financial institutions hold a substantial proportion of these bonds. As such, the potential impact of this exchange on
    the financial sector has been assessed by their respective regulators.

    Working together, these regulators have put in place appropriate measures and safeguards to minimize the potential impact on the financial sector and
    to ensure that financial stability is preserved.

    Specifically:

    – The Bank of Ghana, the Securities & Exchange Commission, the National Insurance Commission, and the National Pensions Regulatory Authority will ensure that the impact of the debt operation on your financial institution is minimized, using all regulatory tools available to them.

    – A Financial Stability Fund (FSF) is being established by Government with the help of development partners to provide liquidity support to banks, pension funds, insurance companies, fund managers, and collective investment schemes to ensure that they are able to meet their obligations to their clients as they fall due.

    These are difficult times and we count on the support of all Ghanaians and the investor community to make the exercise successful.

    We are confident that these measures will contribute to restoring macroeconomic stability. With your understanding and support and that of the entire investor community, we shall overcome our current difficulties, and with the help of God, put our economy back on the path of renewed and robust growth.

    As 1st Samuel 30:19 says, nothing was missing, small or great. I say to you, nothing will be lost, nothing will be missing, and nothing will be broken. We will, together, recover all.

    Thank you and God bless our homeland Ghana.

  • Ofori-Atta gives Bibical assurance after Domestic Debt Exchange announcement

    Minister of Finance on December 4, 2022; announced measures in government’s Domestic Debt Exchange, DDE, as part of Ghana wider debt sustainability at a time Ghana is seeking support from the International Monetary Fund, IMF.

    He stated in a four-minute address that the announcement was in line with government’s Debt Sustainability Analysis as contained in the 2023 budget he presented to Parliament on November 24.

    The Minister laid out among others the exchange of existing domestic bonds with four new ones as well as their maturity dates and terms of coupon payments.

    He also addressed the overarching goal of the government relative to its engagements with the International Monetary Fund as well as measures to minimize impact of domestic bond exchange on different stakeholders.

    In the concluding part of his announcement, Ofori-Atta reiterated thus: “These are difficult times and we count on the support of all Ghanaians and the investor community to make the exercise successful.

    “We are confident that these measures will contribute to restoring macroeconomic stability. With your understanding and support and that of the entire investor community, we shall overcome our current difficulties, and with the help of God, put our economy back on the path of renewed and robust growth,” he said.

    He concluded the address on a Biblical note, saying: “As 1st Samuel 30:19 says, nothing was missing, small or great. I say to you, nothing will be lost, nothing will be missing, and nothing will be broken. We will, together, recover all.

    “Thank you and God bless our homeland Ghana.”

  • Domestic Debt Exchange: Economist educates Ofori-Atta, Gabby on ‘implicit haircuts’

    Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta announced a Domestic Debt Exchange on December 4, 2022; with the view that details of the said programme will be presented today, December 5.

    One of three key points he put out in his four-minute address was the fact that there “There will be NO haircut on the principal of bonds.”

    In the wake of back and forth about whether there will be haircuts on domestic bonds, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko who was posting snippets of Ofori-Atta’s address on Twitter highlighted the NO haircuts point.

    But reacting to that particular tweet, Economist and Political Risk Analyst, Dr. Theo Acheampong, explained that the view of Gabby and the Minister was misleading.

    Quoting Gabby’s tweet that read: “There will be no haircut on the principal of your domestic bonds,” Mr. Acheampong clarified: “That’s NOT TRUE, boss.

    “The Fin Min said treasury bills are protected (full redemption) but other local debt instruments (e.g. fixed dep., bank debt holdings) are to to be exchanged for 4 instruments with different maturity dates & coupon payments. So there are implicit haircuts!”

    The other two key points in Ofori-Atta’s announcement relative to domestic bonds were: “Treasury Bills are completely exempted and all holders will be paid the full value of their investments on maturity,” and “Individual holders of bonds will not be affected.”

    What Ofori-Atta said:

    The Minister of Finance announced a number of measures under government’s Domestic Debt Exchange (DDE) programme late Sunday.

    He stated in a 4-minute address that the announcement was in line with government’s Debt Sustainability Analysis as contained in the 2023 budget he presented to Parliament on November 24.

    The Minister laid out among others the exchange of existing domestic bonds with four new ones as well as their maturity dates and terms of coupon payments.

    He also addressed the overarching goal of the government relative to its engagements with the International Monetary Fund as well as measures to minimize impact of domestic bond exchange on different stakeholders.

    “The Government of Ghana has been working hard to minimize the impact of the domestic debt exchange on investors holding government bonds, particularly small investors, individuals, and other vulnerable groups,” he said before outlining three main measures:

    • Treasury Bills are completely exempted and all holders will be paid the full value of their investments on maturity.

    • There will be NO haircut on the principal of bonds.

    • Individual holders of bonds will not be affected.

     

  • Shatta Wale’s apology: Mutual respect between artistes and event organizers important – Arnold

    Ghanaian entertainment critic, Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo, has asserted that it is about time artistes and event organizers accord mutual respect to one another to avert disagreements during events.

    His comments come at the back of a viral video which captured Shatta Wale apologizing to the main sponsor of the Hogbetsotso show where he failed to perform over contractual breaches.

    Speaking on the United Showbiz Show on UTV, Arnold explained that the reason for the consistent cases of Shatta Wale failing to perform at billed events is because there is a seeming lack of mutual respect between creatives and organizers in Ghana.

    “We need to appreciate Shatta Wale for apologizing. However, the most important thing we need to consider is respect. I think moving forward, there must be some level of mutual respect between artistes and event organizers”, he said.

    According to Arnold, artistes need to recognize the fact that through performances, they accrue some percentage of their revenues. Thus, it is important to build a good relationship with their partners who are the event organizers. He also encouraged event organizers to return same level of respect.

    “The artists must realize that event organizers are bringing them business. Because sometimes the artist feel take event organizers for granted. One of the revenue generation point for every entertainer is gigs/performances. And the person who brings the gigs are the event organizers, thus there is a need to respect them,” he added.

    “Event organizers must also respect artists because with no artists, there is no show. Therefore during contract signings, there is a need to respect the brand of the artiste,” he ended

  • ‘My 3-year-old would have scored the penalty Dede Ayew missed’ – Bullgod

    Chief Executive Officer of Bullhaus and entertainment pundit, Bullgod, has said his three-year-old child could have played a better penalty kick than what Andre Dede Ayew displayed during Ghana’s game with Uruguay at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    Speaking on United Showbiz show on UTV, the Bullhaus CEO disclosed that he has always said Dede Ayew was a better player than Messi, but it was difficult for many to rely on him [Dede] for a win.

    He also averred that the Black Star players during the FIFA World Cup acted as though they cared less about the matches they played.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Peace 104.3 FM (@peace104.3fm)

    “I need to figure out what is wrong with the players. They act like they don’t care. My daughter Aseda would have scored the goal,” he stated.

    “Dede plays better than Messi. I have said this and it’s not been today. Years back. Dede Ayew is a better player but the guy… trust, trust. Look at the ball they played them. A Plus was sitting here last week and said they are sacrificing. Is that the sacrifice you were talking about?” he said.

    He further noted that anytime Ghana was playing an opponent, it felt like watching a horror movie.

    “When Ghana plays, it’s a horror film and you can’t watch it. Every day I write, ‘Horror Film.’ you see all these ghosts and spirits on the park. Can you see them?” he added.

    His comments follow Andre Ayew’s golden opportunity to put Ghana in the lead after Kudus Mohammed was fouled in the box early in the first half of the Ghana versus Uruguay match.

     

  • Kumawood actor awarded best farmer in his district

    Fred Nana Agyemang, popularly known as Kyinkyina Twan in Kumawood, has been named the best fish farmer in Atwima Kwanwoma in the Ashanti Region.

    During the Farmers’ Day celebration on December 2, 2022, the actor was awarded a certificate and other prizes at a durbar and exhibition held at Deikrom.

    This was as a result of his outstanding contribution to the development of agriculture and fish farming in the area.

    Fred Nana Agyemang is the owner of Nafaako farms, which specializes in the production of fresh, smoked fish, and catfish.

    He joins the list of very few actors delving into farming like Actor, John Dumelo, known widely as Farmer John.

    During Farmers Day, John highlighted the need for Ghana to add value to its farm produce before exporting it to other countries.

    In a Facebook post sighted by GhanaWeb, he wrote: “On the occasion of Farmers Day, let us emphasize on value addition rather than exporting our raw materials and importing them as finished goods. Let’s start adding value and export. Happy farmers day everyone!!!”

    Ghana’s 38th Farmers’ Day celebration was themed: “Accelerating Agricultural Development Through Value Addition”.

     

  • Afia Schwarzenegger missing as her daughter performs at a ballet show

    On December 3, 2022, Pena Geiling E Amankona, Afia Schwarzenegger’s daughter, performed at the national ballet show at the national theatre with her mother nowhere in sight after Chairman Wontumi placed a bounty on her head.

    In front of hundreds of spectators, Pena performed in a skin-fitting leotard suit coloured white with red petals sewn on it.

    In a post shared by blogger Sammy Kay Media on Instagram, he captioned, “@queenafiaschwarzenegger ‘s daughter @penalistic_pena performing at the ongoing National Ballet Show at the National Theater, Accra.”

    On December 3, 2022, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, better known as Chairman Wontumi, offered to reward an amount of GH¢5,000 to anyone who gives information on the hiding place of Afia Schwarzenegger.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Sammy Kumah (@sammykaymedia)

    In a wontumionline.com report, Chairman Wontumi called on the general public to help the security forces locate Afia Schwarzenegger after the Tema High court sentenced her to ten days in prison with a fine of GH¢60,000.

    This comes after Fadda Dickson, Nana Ama McBrown, Afia Schwarzenegger, Kwame A Plus, and Emmanuel Barnes, popularly known as Mr Logic and UTV, were cited for contempt of court.

    The parties were dragged to court by Chairman Wontumi after discussing the merits of a defamation suit which was pending in court.

    The High Court in its ruling on Thursday, December 1, 2022, convicted and fined all of them to pay GH¢60,000 each; in default, they are to spend two months in jail.

     

  • Nana Aba Anamoah calls out GFA for Black Stars’ flop at FIFA World Cup

    Celebrated Journalist, Nana Aba Anamoah, has gone for the head of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over the abysmal performance of the Ghana Black Stars at the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    According to the ace media personality, the GFA lost its focus in preparing and building a team for the FIFA World Cup.

    She explained that, instead of building a strong and robust team capable of matching up any opponent they face, the GFA rather prioritized recruiting players and coaches who were not very committed to Ghana but moments to the World Cup.

    In a post made on the bird app, Nana Aba Anamoah wrote, “Instead of adopting a proper road map for the World Cup, the GFA and their part time coach, spent time doing international call ups for players who didn’t feel Ghanaian until a few months ago.”

    This she believes accounted for Ghana’s tragic failure at the World Cup.

    “The flop at the World Cup is the result. Yes, the campaign was a huge flop,” Nana Aba wrote on Twitter.

    After beating the Super Eagles of Nigeria to qualify for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup and a magnificent win over Switzerland in a friendly match, Ghanaians had high hopes that the Black Stars of Ghana would perform great at the World Cup.

    However, in the group, the Black Stars lost to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in a 3-2 game, and a 3-2 victory over South Korea. Unfortunately, we were sent packing after Uruguay’s Georgian De Arrascaeta scored a brace.

  • Why would Otto Addo change the winning team?- Delay reacts to Ghana’s starting lineup

    Ghanaian media personality, Deloris Frimpong Manso is in her feelings after Andre Ayew had his penalty saved by the Uruguay goalkeeper who went in the right direction to deny Ghana a goal.

    Ghana started the game very slow but managed to get one chance in the game which saw Jordan Ayew shoot the ball and Mohammed Kudus followed with a rebound and won a penalty for Ghana by the 19th minute.

    Referee Daniel Siebert whistled for an offside but after consultat ion with the Video Assistant Referee, he awarded a penalty to Ghana.

    Captain of the side, Andre Ayew volunteered himself to take the kick for the Black Stars.

    Unfortunately, Andre Ayew had his penalty saved by the Uruguay goalkeeper and this has brought back painful memories to the minds of Ghanaians.

    Reacting to the missed penalty and how the Black Stars are performing below expectations, the TV personality questioned Oto Addo’s decision to change his winning team that defeated South Korea 3-2 in their pervious game.

    “Why would Otto Addo change the winning team? Make it make sense” she said in a Facebook post.

    Dede’s penalty miss comes as a big disappointment to Ghanaians as we were on the path to taking revenge from the Uruguay side after Luis Suarez deliberate handball knocked Ghana out of the 2010 World Cup stopped Ghana from making history 12 years ago.

    In what was one of the most controversial moments in World Cup history, Suarez denied Ghana a late winner in the World Cup quarter-final 12 years ago by deliberately handling Dominic Adiyah’s shot on the goal line.

    Uruguay went on to beat Ghana on penalties to deny the Black Stars the chance of becoming the first African side to reach the last four of the World Cup.

  • I’m proud of Ghana – Ama K. Abebrese celebrates Black Stars despite loss

    Both Ghana and Uruguay have crashed out of the 2022 World Cup.

    Andre Ayew missed a penalty in the 21st minute before Giorgian de Arrascaeta hit a first-half double to put Uruguay 2-1 up.

    It looked like it would be enough for Uruguay to qualify for the last 16 until Hwang Hee-chan netted a 91st-minute winner to send South Korea through, leaving Luis Suarez to end the tournament in tears.

    Despite existing from the 2020 FIFA World Cup, Ghanaians are compensated with the failure of the Uruguay side also failing to move forward in the competition.

    Despite the victory, Uruguay will now be eliminated alongside Ghana, as South Korea won its game against Portugal 2-1. Ghana failed to become the third African representative in the knockouts, alongside Senegal and Morocco.

    This game has had a lot of Ghanaians in their feelings as it was Ghana was tipped to win this game to take revenge for the Luis Suarez deliberate handball that knocked Ghana out of the 2010 World Cup and stopped Ghana from making history 12 years ago.

    Among those people is Ghanaian actress Ama K. Abebrese, who despite all the disappointment of not defecting Uruguay and moving forward into the competition, the actress is still proud of the Black Stars for their performance during the ongoing welcome.

    She wrote; “The Ghana Blackstars did well. Regardless of everything, I’m proud of Ghana”.

    We all can attest that the Black Stars have indeed put their best into this year’s World Cup though the today’s outcome was not expected, Ghanaians are proud of the boys.

    This iconic game has sparked a lot of hidden memories in Ghanaians and has had everyone in their feelings.

    However, whatever went wrong, the Black Stars of Ghana will return home to a rousing welcome.

  • If Baba Rahman can still play full 100 mins then I can play for Ghana – Sonnie Badu

    Sonnie Badu has added his voice to the Baba Rahman criticism as Ghana Black Stars team failed to advance to the next stage in the ongoing World Cup tournament.

    Going into the game, Ghana needed a win or draw to boost their chances of moving to the next round but got eliminated from the tournament following their 2-0 defeat against Uruguay in their last gr oup game.

    Heartbroken Ghanaian football lovers have been the Ghanaian coacch, Otto Addo and Ghana Football Association over poor selection of players. Accordingly, Baba Rahman has been trending as many argue that he shouldn’t have been selected for the match.

    Adding his voice to the criticisms,the Ghanaian Gospel minister said “if this guy can still play full 100 mins then I can play for GHANA… Look at the balls he could not even connect?“.

    In another post, he called for the Black Stars team to be dissolved. “The truth of the matter is this; the senior national team will have to be scrapped. I don’t think these boys will come to Africa to play Afcon qualifiers“.

    He concluded that “they should ask Afriyie how some of the hotels and stadiums are .. it’s time to build a new black star and I know @afriyiebdaniel will lead Ghana to win a trophy one day“.

    The fixture against Uruguay which brought back memories from the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament in South Africa was dubbed a revenge for Otto Addo’s side.

    Ghana’s game started on a good note with footprints of what had happened 12 years ago. Mohammed Kudus, one of the most pivotal players for the Black Stars was brought down in the penalty box by Sergio Rochet Alvarez. After a long VAR check, the referee awarded Ghana a penalty.

    Captain of the side Andre Ayew stepped up for the kick but unfortunately sent Ghanaians down the memory lane with a miss, making Ghana the only team in FIFA World Cup history to miss two penalties against the same opposition.

    Ghana’s team went on the back-foot immediately conceding a first goal of the game 5 minutes after the penalty miss. De Arrascaeta opened the scoring for Uruguay before quickly making it a double for Luis Suarez side to give them a cushion for qualification.

    The Black Stars could not find the zeal and enthusiasm to pose threats to Uruguay as the team went into the break losing by two goals to nil.

    Coach Otto Addo made two changes for the start of the second half taking off Jordan and Andre Ayew for Sulemana and Osman Bukari respectively.

    Ghana’s changes improved their game a little but could not pose any threat at goal for Uruguay who wanted to see off the game with the two-goal advantage.

  • “I spent over GH₵390K on my wedding yet divorced after 8 months”: 20-yr-old man

    A 20-year-old Nigerian man, @apito.luxury, who married someone younger than him, has revealed that he spent over N12.3m(GH₵ 390,461.93) on his wedding.

    In a TikTok video, he said he knows many would doubt that he spent that much on his traditional marriage.

    Millions of naira on wedding

    Recall that the same young man came out in a separate video to reveal that after his glamorous wedding, he eventually divorced his wife, ending their eight months old marriage.

    Many tubers of yam and other things he bought for his marriage list could be seen.

    Watch his video below:

    @apito.luxury I know many will doubt it /// // #apitoluxury #zyxcba #viral #fyp ♬ Ibalu Mmonwu – Chief Michael Udegbi

    Netizens doubt man spent over N12m (GH₵ 390,000) on wedding

    TikTokers did not believe that he spent the amount he claimed. As of the time of writing this report, the video has gathered over 900 comments with close to 10,000 likes.

    YEN.com.gh compiled some of the reactions below:

    Christian Nwabuez592 said:

    “Who even tell u say u don reach to marry self.”

    OfficialViana Kim said:

    “N12.3 and the wedding looks like this pls question ur organisers.”

    ugochukwuogbonna80 wondered:

    “N12.3m na all their family you the marry?”

    debrahnwabueze said:

    “Marriage wey them help you do.”

    user3105710931795 said:

    “My husband spent 3m ,,, any little thing he will ask me ,if i knew how much he spend on my head.”

    Pretty nneka said:

    “Nnan they thing no even reach 500000 thousand.”

    IGBANDIEZEOFFICIAL said:

    “Oga go rest na we tell u to marry why u dey complain you dey disturb me.”

    </h2>

  • “It’s so emotional”: Bride in tears; thanks talented designer for job well done

    Having a talented fashion designer in your corner for your big day is a blessing, and perhaps, this explains a bride’s show of gratitude to her designer.

    In a video posted by @asoebibella, the bride, Iruoma Ojika, is seen in an emotional state as she hails her designer for a job well done.

    The video sees the bride in a gorgeously designed green George dress with bedazzled sheer sleeves.

    She is heard speaking to the tailor, identified as Fatima, praising her for not disappointing and wishing good things into the designer’s life for a job well done.

    Watch the video below:

    Internet users react to video of bride and her designer

    adaberrys_signature:

    “This is so emotional. When you deliver more than your customer’s expectations, they’ll almost make their next of kin. The reward of a designer is the satisfaction of their clients. Well done fashion designer. God bless them both❤️”

    jaydee_fabrics:

    “It’s so true….some designers are heaven sent.”

    gifteddemmyevents:

    “Thank you for making her happy on her special day.”

    ab_phylix:

    “Na tailors wey sew our clothes well we go pray for Dey cry..”

    ruqayyah.titi:

    “I went to her page saw the pictures of the clothes she made for her, and believe me this feeling and prayers are sooooooo deserving! “

    theritamordi:

    “Awnnn…. This is so emotional to watch.”

  • Biggest Muslim wedding in November as the pretty bride wears 6 stunning gowns

    Ghanaian businessman, Goddey Wan tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony last week. The real estate developer and his stunning bride are the talk of the town after photos and videos from their luxurious wedding were shared online.

    1. Beautiful bride and her stunning bridesmaids

    The Muslim bride looked regal in a white lace and blue corseted gown. She styled her looks with a matching gele for the first part of the wedding.

    The bridesmaids wore matching corseted gowns and hairstyles for the star-studded event as they danced beautifully in the video below.

    2. Rich groom and his energetic groomsmen

    The wealthy businessman made a bold fashion statement with his wardrobe. He used the same unique fabric for the bride’s gown to sew his sleeveless jacket and trousers styled with a white long-sleeve shirt.

    3. Couple’s second look for the reception party

    The happy couple impressed wedding guests and social media users with their stunning looks. The bride changed into a glittering kente gown styled with matching gele and purse. Mr. Goddey wore a white Kaftan and stylish kente hat for the reception party.

    4. Couple’s fourth look for the night

    The stunning bride dazzled in a yellow form-fitting gown with matching gele. She also changed her purse to match her look. The bride’s makeup looks were flawless for all her looks.

    Goddey looked dapper in a long grey kaftan top styled with black trousers as he held his wife’s hand.

    5. Goddey and Mi impresses with dance moves

    The Muslim couple did not only make headlines with their looks but their impressive swag and dance skills are very adorable. The beautiful bride wore a red elegant gown and the groom rocked an all-white buttoned suit.

    6. Pretty bride stuns in an African print gown

    The gorgeous Muslim bride was pictured in an African print and lace ruffle gown. The style influencer was seen dancing in a beautiful video with her husband.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Goddey Wan (@goddeywan77)

  • Anita Sefa Boakye reveals gender of baby on b’day, drops stunning photos

    Anita Sefa Boakye, the wife of the CEO of Adinkra Meat Pie, Barima Osei Mensah, has dropped stunning photos as she marks her birthday on December 3, 2022.

    Clad in white, Anita looked beautiful in her sleeveless straight dress with a rope tied around her neck to secure the dress.

    To spice her entire look, she had a headpiece with flowers on it worn around her head. Her hair was held in a ponytail, and she looked joyous in the photos.

    Holding blue and white balloons and blue ribbons indicates that Anita and her husband are expecting a baby boy.

    Even without makeup, Anita looks so beautiful in her flawless melanin skin, as she beamed with smiles in the photos.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Anita Sefa Boakye (@anitasefaadinkra)

    Birthday wishes and more congratulatory messages pour in for Anita Sefa Boakye on her special say

    sarahafua710 remarked:

    ❤️happy birthday to you Mummy may the Almighty God richly bless your new age ❤️❤️

    sweetintins_couture_cakes commented:

    Happy Birthday Anita

    blayzpictures_ said:

    Happy birthday Anita

    themobilebar commented:

    Happy birthday Anita

    beyoutiful_hairghana remarked:

    Happy birthday to you. God bless you

    nanakua_k stated:

    Happy birthday fave

    officialroyal_dagaati commented:

    Happy birthday Maa❤️

    lizzy_naturallyy said:

    Happy birthday and God bless you ❤️

  • Proud mom: Tracey Boakye flaunts her kids & husband in family photos; fans gush

    Actress and movie producer, Tracey Boakye, has blessed feeds with adorable family photos of herself, her kids, her husband, and her daughter’s nanny.

    The actress shared the family selfies with her family from New York in the United States of America. She will be celebrating Christmas with her family in the US.

    Tracey Boakye captioned the images as:

    ”All we needed was a change of weather and environment this festive season, and we got it,” she said.

    Fans showered sweet words on the actress and her family. YEN.com.gh highlighted some of the comments below:

    Fans love the family photos of Tracey Boakye

    Mizimran said:

    Nyame ehyira wo.

    Abdulai.ali.3975 commented:

    Yahaya, my Muslim brother, my regards to your parents.

    Lily_akos posted:

    Happy family.

    Patdoe49 shared:

    Beautiful soul. Little girl growing paaa. Kisses to her muaaaaaaaah.

    Okyemgrace said:

    May God’s blessings and favours be upon the family.

    Daniel_wealth commented:

    I am joining you guys, yeah.

    Pablomannietelli99 said:

    This Nhyira girl de asem beba ooo, see how she de swagg. Bless her.

  • Tears flow: Nana Aba sparks emotions as one of the conjoined twins dies

    Media personality, Nana Aba Anamoah, has triggered emotions with the death of one of the conjoined twins at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital at Ridge.

    When and how the boy died

    The baby, whose surgery was performed at the health facility, passed on the night of Thursday, December 1, while the surgeons were conducting the last stage of the procedure to separate him and his brother joined by the heads, Starr FM reported.

    The steps to begin the procedure to separate the conjoined twins began on Monday, December 6, 2021, at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, formerly Ridge Hospital. The boy, born on March 29, 2021, with his brother, is said to have died just when the surgery started.

    The Government of Ghana took up the cost of the surgery to separate the twins following an appeal for funds by EIB Network.

    The General Manager of GHOne TV/Starr FM, Nana Aba Anamoah led the campaign to raise the funds. The procedure at the hospital cost a whopping GH¢3,000,000.

    Nana Aba Anamoah shared the sad news about the boy’s death on her socials, triggering emotions online.

    Netizens have been reduced to tears. YEN.com.gh compiled some of the comments below:

    Netizens react emotionally to Nana Aba Anamoah’s post

    @cfczack2131 said:

    Couldn’t hold back my tears when their dad called me on Thursday morning to tell me the news.

    @MarkOseiGyimah commented:

    Grateful one is still alive. I pray the remaining one is the reason for their happiness.

    @Andromeda_LOL posted:

    Do you pray? Do you pray? I think if prayer worked. Both would have survived.

    @___theSeraph reported:

    Anytime I worked, I’m in their room. I never wanted my shift to end. They were cute. I’m sad.

    @AkuaSelorm reacted:

    Oh so sorry. May her soul rest in peace, and God console them.

    @ZionIronlion reacted:

    Nana wholeheartedly and instinctively. I pray that May God almighty dwell on the good heart you always have for those who obviously yearn for assistance. May God increase your stay on earth and grant you very robust health for you to exhibit more of these things to society.

  • Veteran actor Pete Edochie speaks on his son’s decision to pick a second wife

    Veteran Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie has revealed how he felt when his son, actor Yul Edochie, disclosed he had picked his colleague, Judy Austin, as a second wife.

    Speaking in a new interview with Vanguard, Pete Edochie said he didn’t feel good about his son’s decision but that was his choice to make.

    “I didn’t feel good, but like I said, I’m a Christian and I read the Bible. Solomon, with 700 wives and 300 concubines, was branded a man of wisdom. It’s his choice and for whatever reason he decided to take a second wife, that’s what I can say,” he was quoted as saying.

    Yul made news in April this year when he announced he had picked Judy as his second wife.

    His first wife, May, has since expressed her displeasure at his decision, stating that she will not be cajoled to accept what does not align with her faith.

  • Chairman Wontumi places GH¢5,000 bounty on Afia Schwarzenegger

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, better known as Chairman Wontumi, has offered to reward anyone who gives information about the hiding place of Afia Schwarzenegger an amount of GH¢5,000.

    In a wontumionline.com report, Chairman Wontumi called on the general public to help the security forces locate Afia Schwarzenegger, after the Tema High court sentenced her to ten days in prison with a fine of GH¢60,000.

    This report comes after the socialite and mother of three went silent on social media, and her whereabouts remain unknown to many.

    In an interview with Movement TV, Lawyer for Chairman Wontumi, Maurice Ampaw, declared Afia Schwarzenegger “Ghana’s most wanted”.

    The private legal practitioner indicated that his team has handed over the warrant to all security patrol teams in the country to ensure Afia Schwarzenegger is arrested when spotted along the borders of Ghana.

    He also cautioned anyone who is harbouring Afia Schwarzenegger to put an abrupt end to it or face the law when apprehended.

    Meanwhile, Fadda Dickson, Nana Ama McBrown, Afia Schwarzenegger, Kwame A Plus, and Emmanuel Barnes, popularly known as Mr Logic and UTV, were cited for contempt of court.

    The parties were dragged to court by Chairman Wontumi after discussing the merits of a defamation suit which was pending in court.

    The High Court in its ruling on Thursday, December 1, 2022, convicted and fined all of them to pay GH¢60,000 each; in default, they are to spend two months in jail.

     

  • Afia Schwarzenegger is most wanted in Ghana now -Lawyer Maurice Ampaw

    Nana Tornado has been in a joyous mood since it was announced that Tema High Court had sentenced Afia Schwarzenegger a ten-day jail sentence for contempt.

    In a post shared by the socialite on Instagram, he took a screenshot of a chat someone had sent him with a link to his nemesis’s arrest in the chat.

    In a caption that accompanied the screenshot, Tornado asked netizens, “WHERE IS ASIBOLANGA?”

    Nana Tornado on December 1, 2022, rejoiced after his nemesis, Afia Schwarzenegger, was given a ten-day sentence with a GH¢60,000 fine for contempt over comments she and Mr Logic passed on a lawsuit that Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) filed against her.

    In a video that Tornado shared on Instagram, he praised Chairman Wontumi for taking action and further showered him with accolades.

    “Today is the happiest day of my life. If they say ‘Happiest Day’, I Tornado, if they ask me when is the happiest day of my life, I will say today is,” he said.

    “Ghanaians do you remember in some time past, Afia Schwarzenegger sat on United Showbiz to defame Chairman Wontumi, Ashanti Regional Minister. Chairman Wontumi. Chairman, if you say can, you still will find a way to deliver. Chairman wherever you are, I salute you, Sir,” he stated.

  • Black Sherif, Sarkodie and Nasty C are the only rappers in Africa – Wizkid

    Nigerian afrobeat singer, Wizkid, has asserted that Sarkodie, Nasty C and Black Sherrif are the only rappers in Africa.

    His comment comes at the back of an earlier interview with 10magazine where he dismissed the relevance of rap music in contemporary times.

    According to the “Essence” hitmaker, rap music is dead. However, he noted that Afrobeat is the new gold that is making a more significant impact on the world market.

    In a Snapchat post, the singer, who appeared to be taking a swipe at Nigerian rappers, wrote, “Y’all not even rappers! O Nasty C/Sarkodie/ Black Sherif the only rappers in Africa. Y’all dumb f*cks”, he said

    Wizkid’s post seems to have caused a stir in the Nigerian rap community, with several artists expressing dissent.

    In a tweet sighted by GhanaWeb, Nigerian rapper Ycee said Wizkid’s comments about rap make “no sense”.

    According to Ycee, rappers are doing well with very little support. Thus, it’s illogical for Wizkid to run down the rap genre.

    Another Nigerian act who joined the conversation is Nigerian music producer Neptune. He opined that there are good rappers in Nigeria.

  • Nigerian rappers are broke – Wizkid

    Nigerian rappers have received a bombshell from one of their own. According to multiple award-winning Afrobeat singer, Wizkid, rappers in Nigeria are broke.

    “Broke boys! Can’t believe ya’ll broke boys really thought Biz Wiz will talk about y’all, wow!” Wizkid posted on Snapchat.

    The singer’s contention has caused an uproar in the Nigerian rap community, with some rappers calling out Wizkid for making what they describe as a reckless statement. One of the fiercest responses to Wizkid’s post is a tweet by Nigerian rapper Ycee.

    Ycee, who took to his Twitter page to respond to Wizkid, said the singer’s comments about rap are senseless because rappers are working so hard to stay afloat despite no financial support from anyone.

    “The thing wey Wiz dey do no make sense. Rappers work so hard in an industry that does not even favour them. No funding. No support. No nothing. And you wanna make fun of that? Nah G. That is not it,” Ycee tweeted.

    Wizkid’s barrage of attacks on the rap community sterns from an earlier interview he granted to 10magazine, where he opined that rap music is dead.

    “I don’t listen to rap – that sh*t is boring to me. It’s dead now; it’s tired. These guys do the same sh*t, rap on the same beats’ same flows,” Wizkid stated.

  • Government needs your support to deal with galamsey – Akufo-Addo to farmers

    Farmers are being pushed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to join the fight against galamsey, or illegal mining.

    President Akufo-Addo remarked that farmers and citizens must collaborate to battle the galamsey threat during his speech at the 38th National Best Farmer award.

    According to the President, if farmers and the general people do not cooperate with the government to eradicate the galamsey threat, the unlawful activity would wreak havoc on the ecosystem.

    If we don’t want to sabotage the legacy our forefathers left for us, it is our common responsibility as citizens and farmers to put an end to this environmental canker, he said.

    In the view of the President, if “we are able to completely curb the menace of illegal mining”, the cocoa sector will thrive.

    “Sustainability of the cocoa sector is consented on how effectively we are able to fight the devastating effect of illegal mining”, he said.

  • Elected Volta, Greater Accra NDC executives visit Mahama

    Former President John Mahama received a courtesy call from the National Democratic Congress (NDCfreshly )’s elected Greater Accra and Volta Regional Executives.

    According to the CEOs, they went to meet the previous president to introduce themselves.
    The two regions also vowed to back John Mahama’s bid to represent the NDC in the 2024 elections.

    Additionally, the region brings up a number of topics that they think will facilitate the fight for success in 2024.

    President Mahama congratulated the new teams and encouraged them to work hard, bring on board all key stakeholders in their regions, and ensure that there is unity among the rank and files.

    President Mahama also reiterated the need to build dedicated corps of polling agents that will ensure vigilance on polling day.

    The new regional executives presented gifts to Mr. Mahama on his 64th birthday.

  • Four Ghanaian celebrities who lost weight drastically

    The motivation to lose weight is a personal decision determined individuals take. Over the course of the years, a lot of well-known people have undergone transformations for a variety of reasons.

    Some of the reasons include managing chronic conditions, improving their mental health, or simply staying eye candy in the public eye all the time.

    Numerous celebrities, including Joselyn Dumas and Roselyn Ngissah, have not shied away from discussing their individual weight loss journeys.

    While others increased the intensity of their workouts, others focused on modifying their diet to emphasize whole, nutrient-dense foods.

    Some others might have gone to their primary care physicians for guidance on the the right weight reduction procedures that will direct them in the correct course.

    Their outcomes support one thing that many have always known to be true, regardless of the strategy used: Dedication and consistency does pay off.

    Scroll down to see 4 celebrities before and after weight loss:

    Joselyn dumas

    Belinda Dzattah

    Sammy Forson

    Jessica Opare-Saforo

  • Ghanaian celebrities react to Black Star’s exit from the 2022 FIFA World Cup

    Ghana’s hopes of progressing to the round of 16 of the 2022 FIFA World Cup were dashed yesterday following a dramatic defeat to Uruguay.

    On the brink of that, many Ghanaian celebrities have taken to social media to express their disappointment about the team’s performance, particularly the decisions of the Ghanaian coach.

    Prior to the match, the Black Stars had a clear picture of what they needed to do before progressing; either win or draw against Uruguay.

    However, just as it happened in Ghana’s previous encounter with Uruguay, the Black Stars missed a glorious opportunity to take the lead through a penalty given in the match’s early stages.

    After Captain Dede Ayew missed the penalty, Ghana conceded two goals against the team many saw as our fiercest rival.

    While some were happy about the Portugal – South Korea match’s results, which prevented Uruguay from sailing into the following stages, a faction expressed their disappointment with the team’s mentality towards the game and the poor decision-making of the technical team.

    Celebrities who have commented on the loss include Sarkodie, Black Sherrif, Nana Aba Anamoah, Sandra Ankobiah, Rev Erskine, and Kwame Bee, amongst others.

    Below are some of their reactions after the Ghana vs Uruguay match.


  • Andre Ayew’s daughter recovering after collapsing during Ghana versus Uruguay game

    Close associates of Black Stars captain Andre Ayew have confirmed to GhanaWeb that the player’s seven-year-old daughter is recovering after collapsing during the Ghana versus Uruguay game on Friday.

    Details of how and why Andre’s daughter collapsed remain sketchy but reports in the local media say she collapsed after her dad missed a penalty in the first half of the game.
    The Al Saad player endured a torrid time after seeing Ghana eliminated from the World Cup and the scare of almost losing his daughter.

    Andre’s daughter whose name has been withheld to protect her privacy is said to be in better health this morning.

    Andre Ayew had to rush to a Doha hospital after the game to ensure the safety of his little girl.

    In a post-match reaction after the defeat, Andre told reporters, “I am very disappointed with the results. We had the opportunity to go to the next stage, I got a penalty and I missed so it is difficult to take. The game was played on details and we did not get it right and I did not get it right with my penalty but I am very optimistic for the future. God gives his most difficult battles to those who can fight them and wake up. I am sad but I am willing to make it better next time.”

    Uruguay beat Ghana 2-0 in a game the Black Stars needed just a draw to progress to the next stage of the competition.

    Ghana picked up 3 points in three games, beating South Korea and then losing to Portugal and Uruguay in Group H.

  • Painter jailed 10 years for possession of illicit drugs

    A painter who had drugs in his possession was given a 10-year prison term with hard labour by the Seventh Circuit Court of Accra.

    The court presided over by Mrs. Ellen Ofei-Ayeh also sentenced Ber Kevin, 21, to pay a fine of 1,000 penalty units, or GH $12,000.00, or to serve an additional three years in prison consecutively if he failed to do so.

    Since his accomplice, bar owner George Relatus Zanugah, 28, denied giving Kevin the drug, Kevin was found guilty on his own admission of guilt after entering a simple guilty plea to unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

    Zanugah was granted a GH¢50,000.00 bail with three sureties, one to justify the bail bond.

    Police Chief Inspector Isaac Anquandah told the court that personnel from the Drug Law Enforcement Unit of the Ghana Police Service were the complainants in the case.

    Ber Kevin also known as “Biggi,” is a painter and Zanugah Relatus George, a bar operator, both resided at Spintex Baatsona-Kotobabi, a suburb of Accra.

    He said on February 9, 2022, at about 1040 hours the complainants acted upon intelligence and arrested Kevin, a Nigerian at Spintex Baatsona Kotobabi, and a search conducted at where he was seated, led to the recovery of 150 blue paper wraps of rocky substance, 73 white paper wraps of plant material, 38 brown paper wraps of dark substance popularly called hashish, 10 dark rocky substance tied with black polyethylene and 24 plain rubber wraps containing a quantity of plant material known as amnesia.

    Prosecution said a quartier of compressed slab of plant material and two plain rubber containing a handful size of plant material, all tested positive for narcotic drugs were also retrieved from Kevin.

    Chief Inspector Anquandah said GH¢130.00 believed to be proceeds from the narcotic trade was also seized from Kevin.

    He said upon interrogation, Kevin claimed ownership of all the exhibits and informed the police that he got his supply from a certain man who was dark and short at Ashiaman, but in police custody, he mentioned Zanugah as his source of supply.

    On May 4, 2022, Kevin led police to Baatsona Kotobabi Spintex and pointed out Zanugah to police and he was subsequently arrested, the court heard.

    Chief Inspector Anquandah said Zanugah however, denied the offence in his investigation cautioned statement.

  • Lepusi residents rush to siphon fuel from a crashed fuel tanker

    Lepusi residents in the Nanumba North municipality of the Northern region raced to syphon petrol from a fallen fuel tanker with no concern for their safety.

    According to citinewsroom.com, a petrol tanker travelling in the direction of Bimbilla crashed after colliding with a Ghana Police Service barrier at Lepusi.

    The tanker somersaulted as a result of the collision, the report claims, and its cargo spilled into the road.

    However, the locals chose to scoop the fuel into jerricans and other containers rather than fleeing from a potential explosion.

    The driver of the tanker, who confirmed the incident to Citi News, said that the accident happened after he lost control of the vehicle.

    “I did not see this coming at all. I saw the barrier late. There was also an oncoming car, so I was confused.

    “I did not know whether to avoid the barrier or the oncoming car. So, in an attempt to escape it, I ran into the barrier,” he narrated.

  • Ghana’s food security situation remains strong – Agric minister

    Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, the minister for food and agriculture, claims that the Akufo-Addo administration’s policy reforms have contributed to the nation’s food security.

    Speaking at the National Farmers Day celebration on Friday, December 2, 2022 in Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern Regional Region, the Minister praised farmers for their efforts to improve the nation’s food security situation.

    The assistance of the Akufo-Addo administration for the agricultural sector was guaranteed by Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto.

    “From my field visits so far my assessment is that the ongoing harvest will be good this year and our food security situation as a nation remains strong. Farmers and fishers whom we celebrate today have built this security by responding very favourably provided by government under the flagship Planting for Food and Jobs programme.

    He added: “In the past five years – 2017 to 2021, the government of Nana Akufo-Addo has provided nearly GHC2.5 billion in subsidies on improved seeds and fertilizers alone.”

  • One of conjoined twins separated at Ridge Hospital dies

    According to information obtained by Starr FM and GHOne TV, one of the conjoined twins whose surgery was performed at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital at Ridge has passed away.

    According to information from individuals close to the twins’ family, the infant passed away on the evening of December 1, 2022, when surgeons completed the final step of their procedure to separate the two boys who were linked in the head.

    At the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, the lengthy procedure to separate the conjoined twins got under way on Monday, December 6, 2021.

    The boy is said to have died just when the surgery started.

    The twins were born on 29th March 2021.

    The government took up the full cost for the surgery to separate the twins after the EIB Network began a public campaign to raise funds to support the surgery.

    The campaign, which was led by the General Manager of the English Cluster of the media conglomerate, Nana Aba Anamoah, had already raised over GHC500,000.

    Surgeons at the Ridge Hospital had said it will cost a whopping GHC3,000,000 to separate the twins who are joined in the head to enable them to live independently.

    This was the first time doctors in Ghana conducted such a specialized operation.

  • Farmers Day: Mahama commends farmers for their priceless efforts

    John Dramani Mahama, a former president of Ghana, has praised the country’s farmers for their selfless efforts in providing food for the people and industry.

    On Friday, December 2, 2012, all 16 regions of the nation participated in this year’s National Farmers Day celebrations, which also took place in Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern Regional Region.

    Farmers were recognised at the ceremonies with awards for their steadfast efforts over the years to advance agriculture in the nation.

    The former President urged President Akufo-Addo to prioritise agriculture in his message of praise for the farmers.

    “I celebrate all farmers on this auspicious occasion for their priceless efforts that feed us and keep our industries running.

    “With Ghana’s economy at the brink of collapse, as proven by Rating Agencies through their unending downgrades, and the hardship it has brought to many homes, this is the time for government to begin to take farmers and farming related businesses serious,” Mr. Mahama stated in a Facebook post on December 2, 2022.

    According to him “this is the surest way we can reduce imports, strengthen the struggling cedi and save Ghana’s economy.

    “I urge the government to prioritise agribusiness and support with favourable financing for farmers and all actors in the agricultural value chain.”

    Meanwhile, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto has said there is food security in the country due to the policy interventions by the Akufo-Addo-led government.

    He also commended the efforts of farmers to consolidate the country’s food security situation.

    Addressing farmers in the Eastern region, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto assured of the Akufo-Addo administration’s support for the agriculture sector.

    “From my field visits so far my assessment is that the ongoing harvest will be good this year and our food security situation as a nation remains strong. Farmers and fishers whom we celebrate today have built this security by responding very favourably provided by the government under the flagship Planting for Food and Jobs programme.”

    He added: “In the past five years – 2017 to 2021, the government of Nana Akufo-Addo has provided nearly GHC2.5 billion in subsidies on improved seeds and fertilizers alone.”

  • Ghana Immigration Service intercept 981 sacks of suspected marijuana

    At Liero, a town close to the Burkina Faso border, a joint patrol team of Ghana Police Service and Immigration service seized 981 bags of compressed substance believed to be marijuana.

    The service was able to intercept the alleged drugs after receiving intel. The service allegedly conducted a raid on a man’s (name withheld) Liero house.

    The team found that the majority of the rooms were loaded with bags containing what was thought to be marijuana.

    The team retrieved the suspected substances totalling 981 parcels and sent them to the Hamile border post for further investigation and action.

    “The respective state security agencies would be invited to analyse the exhibits to ascertain the veracity of our deep suspicion about what the substance actually is,” part of the statement read.

    “In the meantime, frantic efforts are being made to apprehend persons connected to the ceased substance to aid in the investigation and appropriate action,” it added.

    It continued that, “Whereas we appreciate the impeccable rapport with the locals, we wish to respectfully inform the few unrepentant ones not to stand in our way. They must either change or we change them, the middle ground is not an option.”

  • ‘We need a proper coach with technical know-how’ – Sam George reacts to Black Stars Word Cup exit

    Sam Nartey George, the representative for Ningo-Prampram, has expressed regret over Ghana’s senior men’s national team, the Black Stars, leaving the 2022 Qatar World Cup early.

    The MP claimed in a tweet that the Black Stars’ loss to Uruguay in their final World Cup group match in Qatar in 2022 proves they require a qualified coach.

    He continued by saying that GFA authorities have to stop meddling in the team’s player selecting process.

    “Four lessons learned from this defeat; We need an experienced coach.
    Parts of the MP’s tweet read, “The GFA Executives need to quit meddling in team selection.

    The MP, however, indicated that Ghanaians can find some solace in the fact that Uruguay has also exited the tournament.

    “Even if we lost, we are going home with Uruguay,” Sam George said.

    The Black Stars were eliminated from the 2022 FIFA World Cup after losing by 2-0 to Uruguay in their final match of the group stages.

    Giorgian de Arrascaeta’s two goals for Uruguay were not enough to get them through to the next round of the tournament as South Korea beat Portugal 2-1.

    The Black Stars had a slow start in the game as Uruguay was on fire from the blast of the whistle.

    However, Ghana’s first chance in the game which fell to Jordan Ayew nearly saw him score but Sergio Rochet pulled a good save which saw Kudus go in for a rebound.