The estate for Issac Hayes has threatened Donald Trump with legal action after he launched his 2024 presidential campaign with one of the late musician’s songs.
In a pair of tweets, the estate of the iconic singer-songwriter and actor condemned the Trump campaign’s usage of the 1966 Sam & Dave song “Hold On I’m Coming,” which Hayes co-wrote with David Porter.
“Once again, the estate and family of Isaac Hayes DID NOT approve the use of ‘Hold On I’m Coming’ by Sam and Dave by Donald Trump at his 2024 Presidential announcement tonight,” the official account for Hayes tweeted. “We are exploring multiple legal options to stop this unauthorized use.”
In a follow-up, the estate expressed frustration with how difficult it can be to stop a politician from using a musician’s music.
“Stopping a politician from using your music is not always an easy task, but we are dedicated to making sure that Donald Trump does not continue to use ‘Hold on I’m Coming’ written by Isaac Hayes and David Porter in further rallies and public appearances,” the second tweet read.
The list of musicians who have publicly criticized Trump’s campaigns for using their music is extensive, and many have threatened legal action. Some of the most notable examples include Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Pharrell, Adele, Rihanna, the Village People, and Creedence Clearwater Revival.
Trump officially announced his 2024 run on Tuesday, during which he once again vowed to “make America great and glorious again,” whatever that means. The 76-year-old twice-impeached president has filed official forms with the FEC, and Joe Biden has already expressed his intention to run again.
Black Stars defender, Abdul Baba Rahman has opened up on his difficult moment in football when he suffered another career-threatening injury during his time with English Premier League giants, Chelsea.
Baba Rahman who made a big money move from German Bundesliga side, Augsburg in the summer of 2015 didn’t enjoy his time at Stamford Bridge as he was mostly injured and spent most of his time on loan.
Opening up about the setbacks he had in his career, Baba revealed that he at a point even doubted that he could play football again when he needed a third major knee operation.
However, certain people whom he described as angels within the Chelsea medical team helped nurse him back to full health, so he can continue with his game and he owes his career to those people.
“I went home after a scan that I thought was a minor injury, they called to say the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in the other knee has gone. I just went to sleep after five minutes of this call. The third one was something I couldn’t take. It was tough, it was tough, it was tough.
You have to understand that having two ACLs and a meniscus operation shows how tough and mentally strong I am to get back to playing again. It came after the surgeon told my agent that I should be happy if I could even get back to playing again after the first one, because of the complications in the knee.
I would like to thank Paco [Biosca], Thierry [Laurent], John [Fearn], and Stewart [Vaughan] at Chelsea. They were like angels to me. They gave me strength and always helped me to stay positive. At one point, I decided I had to quit football because of all the complications I had but they just gave me the confidence to keep going,” Baba Rahman said.
The 28-year-old left-back is currently in the camp of the Black Stars preparing for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Ghana international, Baba Rahman has disclosed that he at a point contemplated quitting football.
According to the Black Stars defender, multiple knee injuries left him frustrated.
Speaking in an interview, the Reading FC full-back said he almost quit football if not for the support he received.
“I went home after a scan that I thought was a minor injury, they called to say the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in the other knee has gone.
“I just went to sleep after five minutes of this call. The third one was something I couldn’t take. It was tough, it was tough, it was tough,” Baba Rahman told Standard Sport in an interview.
The defender added, “I would like to thank Paco [Biosca], Thierry [Laurent], John [Fearn], and Stewart [Vaughan] at Chelsea. They were like angels to me. They gave me strength and always helped me to stay positive.
“At one point, I decided I had to quit football because of all the complications I had but they just gave me the confidence to keep going.”
Baba Rahman is currently one of 26 Ghana players in Abu Dhabi preparing for the start of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The Minority in Parliament is asking the Ghana Standards Authority to suspend the implementation of Act 891 passed by Parliament to ensure road safety.
According to the Customs (Amendment) Act 2020, Section 61 of Act 891 amended, all used vehicles imported into the country must be accompanied by a certificate of conformance.
According to the Ghana Standards Authority, no used vehicle will be allowed into the country without the certificate.
But addressing the media in Parliament, Minority spokesperson on Roads and Transport, Governs Kwame Agbodza warned any hasty implementation of the Act will result in revenue losses to government.
The Adaklu MP is therefore asking the Ghana Standards Authority to freeze the implementation and consult more in order for the Act not to suffer same fate as the luxury vehicles tax which was later aborted.
“If they have done their work, I wouldn’t be talking because I have met the used vehicle dealers, I have met members of the public who are complaining about this. As a Member of Parliament on the Roads and Transport Committee, I’m not aware of any public education on this. All we saw was a news item, we are not saying the law is on our books, we have passed many laws that on hindsight we realized that, that is not the right thing. I use the example of the Luxury Vehicle Tax, everybody thought it was going to bring some sanity on our roads but we had to come back and withdraw it. Withdrawal of the road toll, another mess, the implementation of E-Levy. So any time we caution, it is simply because we needed to take time to do these things.
Nobody is saying that vehicles that are totally damaged should be brought into the country. The implementation of this should be in such a way that the average Ghanaian or those who need this can participate in the engagements.”
Afriyie Barnieh was handed his first starting role in Ghana’s friendly match against Switzerland on Thursday, November 17, 2022.
The Hearts of Oak player put up a great performance as he was able to dazzle his way into tight areas to create a few chances at goal.
The player who was deployed on the right wings was able to win a few free kicks for Ghana in the game including a penalty call which was overlooked by the referee.
Goals from Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Semenyo gave Ghana the deserving win over their European opponents as they head to the 2022 World Cup in high spirits.
Reacting to Afriyie Barnieh’s performance in the game, some called for more game time for the home-based player in Ghana’s matches at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The experienced full-back is one of the 26 players selected by Black Stars head coach Otto Addo as his final squad for this year’s mundial.
With days to the start of the World Cup, Baba Rahmah has indicated that he has full confidence in his qualities.
According to him, he is ready to fight for the Black Stars at the tournament.
“I believe in myself and my qualities. I feel 100 per cent. The World Cup is meant for some of the best players. They show you can compete against the best,” Baba Rahman told Standard Sport in an interview.
The full-back is expected to be a starter for Ghana at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
At the tournament, Ghana has been drawn into Group H and will face off with Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea.
The Black Stars will play their Portuguese counterpart on Thursday, November 24, in the first Group H match.
Gladson Awako’s powerful opener and second-half goals from Ibrahim Salifu and Benjamin Yorke ensured the Phobians, who were down by ten men for the most part of the game, collected all three points.
Second-half substitute Seidu Bassist pulled one back for Accra Lions in the second half.
In a fiercely contested game, Accra Lions started well and should have taken the after Redeemer Boateng’s freekick fell to Jacob Mensah whose cutback header was met by Mohammed Shawkan but the midfielder missed the opportunity.
Heats had tried from long range through Gladson Awako and moments later Lions will surge forward again with talismanic winger Hagan Frimpong outwitting Dennis Korsah to send in a cross which evaded Shawkan before Daniel Awuni forced a great save from Richmond Ayi.
Midway through the half, Awako received a pass from Salifu before thunderously powering home the opener.
After the break, a mistake from Accra Lions captain Dominic Nsobila gifted Kwadwo Obeng the ball and in his bid to beat Andrew Owusu, the goalkeeper brought him down and a penalty was awarded. Ibrahim Salifu elected himself and made no mistake from the spot.
With ten minutes remaining, second-half substitute Seidu Bassist pulled one back after heading home from a Redeemer Boateng corner.
As Lions pushed for an equalizer, Hearts of Oak restored their two-goal lead after Benjamin Yorke fired in a shot which Owusu failed to grab.
The Public Interest Accountability Committee (PIAC) has maintained that an amount of $100 million of Ghana’s petroleum revenue not paid into the Petroleum Holding Fund (PHF) flouted the laws of Ghana.
Appearing before the parliamentary committee probing allegations against the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, Vice Chair of PIAC, Abdul Nasir Alfa Mohammed said: “We explored all the laws, in our opinion, that border around this issue, and we still came to an independent opinion, which we stand by on any day, that those revenues ought to have formed part of the petroleum revenues of Ghana and ought to have been deposited in the petroleum holding fund and not in any other account.
“So, for us, it was contrary to the law for that money to have been deposited in any accounts, if at all.”
The Minority in September this year revealed that the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led government had failed to to account for over $100 million of oil funds that accrued to the state for petroleum lifting in the first quarter of 2022.
A statement by NDC MP for Yapei-Kusawgu, John Jinapor, said: “The decision by the current NPP government to transfer revenues accruing from about 944,164 bbls of crude lifting in the Jubilee and TEN fields to a company established in a safe haven (outside Ghana) without parliamentary approval, amounts to a gross violation of the Petroleum Revenue Management Act, 2011 (Act 815) and Public Financial Management Act (Act 921)”.
“We have become aware that following the acquisition of a 7-per cent interest in the Occidental (Oxy) transaction in respect of the Jubilee and TEN fields by the government, ostensibly for GNPC in 2021, the Minister of Finance has clandestinely ceded the shares to an offshore company known as JOHL (a company set-up in the Cayman Islands) in a very surreptitious and opaque manner”, the statement added.
The Petroleum Holding Fund (PHF) was established under Section 2 of the PRMA, as the designated public fund at the Bank of Ghana to receive and disburse petroleum revenue due the Republic of Ghana.
The PHF is held offshore at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, as the Bank of Ghana Petroleum Holding Fund Account.
Former Empire actor Bryshere Gray has been arrested after he allegedly physically abused a woman, per TMZ.
According to legal documents, Maricopa, Arizona police were called last week after a woman said she the actor’s “behavior was escalating and she was concerned for her safety.” She claimed that Gray pulled her hair, and threw a box of food at her among other instances of aggressive behavior.
Officers added that Gray has had multiple incidents with police in recent months, including one domestic disturbance call in October. Since he failed to tell his probation officer about these incidents, he’s been arrested for a probation violation.
The actor, who portrayed Hakeem Lyon on Fox’s Empire, entered a guilty plea in a domestic violence case last year. As part of the agreement, he spent ten days in a county jail and was placed on a three-year probation program. He was additionally ordered to pay restitution and enroll in a domestic violence offender treatment program. Other charges related to July, 2020 incident were dropped.
Goodyear, Arizona authorities said that they responded to calls at a Circle K convenience store after someone notified police that Gray had assaulted a woman. The victim was later identified as his wife. It’s unclear if the woman who called police this month is the same person.
In 2020, she flagged down a citizen for help and said that she had been assaulted at her home for “hours” by Gray, who has not had a major acting role since Empire ended in 2020.
Attacking midfielder Daniel-Kofi Kyereh of congratulated team captain Andre Ayew on reaching the milestone of having the most appearances for the Black Stars.
Daniel-Kofi Kyereh took to his official social media page to post: “Legend. Congrats bro Andre Ayew.”
Black Stars captain Andre Ayew was presented with a commemorative jersey after making a record 110th appearance for Ghana today.
The 2009 U-20 World Cup winner was in action when the Black Stars inflicted a 2-0 win over the European country in a pre-World Cup friendly in Abu Dhabi.
The Al Sadd star lasted the entire duration and did not disappoint. The 32-year-old, on the other hand, showed no signs of fatigue, covering a lot of ground as he supported the defence whenever Switzerland attacked.
Ayew completed 89% of his passes (25/28), attempted two long balls that were both perfect, and won three ground duels as well as two aerial duels.
He also made two clearances and one crucial tackle, preventing Xherdan Shaqiri from firing from the edge of the box
The match was Ayew’s 110th appearance for the Black Stars making him the outright most-capped player for the four-time African champions.
He has surpassed the legendary Asamoah Gyan who made 109 appearances for Ghana between 2003 and 2019.
Ayew debuted for Black Stars in 2007, then went on to captain the U20 team to win African Youth Championship and the World Cup in 2009.
He has scored 23 goals making him the seventh all-time top scorer for the Black Stars and the highest by any active Black Stars player.
Goals from Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Semenyo gave Ghana the deserving win over their European opponents as they head to the 2022 World Cup in high spirits.
The Black Stars started the match on a high note creating a few chances in the game which saw Hearts of Oak forward Daniel Afriyie Barnieh coming close to scoring a goal in the game.
Spanish-based Ghanaian forward, Inaki Williams also had a close shave at goal on a couple of occasions but was unlucky.
After a barren first half, coach Otto Addo made few substitution which saw the likes of Kamaldeen Sulemana, Kamal Sowah, Antoine Semenyo, Daniel Kofi Kyereh introduced in the game.
Southampton defender, Mohammed Salisu scored the first goal of the match with a header from a corner kick effected by Daniel Kofi Kyereh.
The goal which was the first goal of the defender inspired Ghana to another goal when striker Antoine Semenyo launched on a glorious pass from Kamaldeen Sulemana to slot home a volley.
Goalkeeper, Lawrence Ati-Zigi was resolute in post for the Black Stars as he kept a clean sheet. He was able to make a few saves in the game as the Swiss had some attempts at goal.
In-form Black Stars players Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus did not play the match as they were left out of the squad.
Ghana head into the 2022 World Cup with high hopes after defeating Switzerland who were able to beat Portugal twice in four matches this year.
Former workers of the various toll booths across the country are demanding the reintroduction of toll collections.
They want government to make such an announcement in the 2023 Budget Statement, scheduled to be read in Parliament on November 30, 2022.
The Transport Ministry on November 18, 2021, announced an immediate cessation of the collection of tolls.
The action was taken after government claimed there was chaos at various tollbooths following an announcement the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta made in the 2022 budget on the cessation of such revenue collection.
Speaking to Citi News a year after they were laid off, Secretary to the Ghana Toll Workers Union Edward Duncan said toll workers have been forced back on the streets while others face eviction from their landlords.
“Most of my colleagues are knocking on the doors of companies, but the jobs are not there, so we hope that the Government will understand or know that they made a mistake with that policy [cancellation] and then they have to reverse it and come back.”
“We are hoping and looking at the announcement they will make concerning toll collection. We are keen on that because it has been a year since the tolls were cancelled and there is no livelihood and there is nothing for us,” he lamented.
Many Ghanaians condemned the cancellation and demanded its immediate reversal.
The Minority Caucus in Parliament demanded its reinstatement but the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu praised the cancellation saying it was timely implemented to save lives and properties.
There are wild celebrations on various social media platforms after a statement win from the Black Stars ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar which starts on Sunday, November 20.
After a goalless first half with Accra Hearts of Oak’s Daniel Afriyie Barnieh “stealing” the show, the Stars stepped up to win the game in the second half.
Two goals from Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Semenyo gave the Black Stars the deserving win over Switzerland who struggled to cope with the pace and tenacity of Otto Addo’s men.
A woman was arrested at John F. Kennedy International Airport this month after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers discovered what they later said was $450,000 of cocaine inside the wheels of a wheelchair.
Per a report from the Associated Press, Emelinda Paulino De Riva was arrested following a flight from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic on Nov. 10. Initially, CBP officers claim to have identified an “anomaly” in the woman’s wheelchair, the wheels of which were allegedly not turning as they normally would.
Further investigation, including an x-ray, resulted in the discovery of a powder officers claim tested positive for cocaine. De Rivas was ultimately arrested and charged with importation of a controlled substance in connection with the alleged 28-pound cocaine haul. A press release from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection regarding the incident, cringe-inducingly, begins with a reference to a popular children’s song.
As cocaine news enthusiasts will recall, this isn’t the first such instance of this variety to spur headlines. In July, for example, a man was arrested and charged with felony trafficking at Charlotte Douglas International Airport after allegedly being found with 23 pounds of cocaine hidden in the seat cushions of a wheelchair.
Of course, as drug law revision advocates have long argued, all the time and money funneled toward self-reverential busts of this kind could be put to better use with a stand-down on the so-called “war on drugs.” Back in 2020, notably, CBP was revealed to have settled a federal lawsuit focused on the agency’s “pattern of abusive seizures and investigations.”
The Black Stars defeated Switzerland by 2-0 in their final friendly match which was played on Thursday, November 17, 2022.
Salisu, who scored one of the game’s goals with a fine header, said he was inspired by the performance of his teammates against the Swizz.
“It’s a great feeling, the boys are ready and we showed today that we are a team and organized, we have to concentrate and I think we can go through.
“Our performance today is a great one from the boys, we did well and I hope we are going to do more at the World Cup,” the Southampton defender told the media.
“I think I should I have scored the goal in the first half and I missed and, in my mind, I was thinking I should have scored in the second half that was what was inn my mind,” he said.
He added, “I think we are from different clubs and I think we have quality in the team. Young players, they all play in the top level. When we focus on our journey, we can do more.”
The Accra Hearts of Oak forward was a “dangerous” man for Ghana at the right-wing position as he run into tight spaces, create chances, and was good at helping Tariq Lamptey to defend Ghana’s right side.
Barnieh’s most controversial moment in the game came when he was kicked in the box after successfully pushing the ball through the legs of Eray Comert in a manner known in Ghana as ‘suluyia’.
Ghanaians believed that the incident was a clear penalty for Ghana as the Switzerland defender Eray Comert tripped him in the penalty box after he (Comert) was nutmegged. There referee, much to the chagrin of the Ghanaian supporters waved play on.
Ghana, despite not winning the penalty appeal went on to win the game in the second half as goals from Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Semenyo were enough for the Black Stars to carry the day.
A Takoradi circuit court presided over His Worship Michael Kwaddwo has fined Josephine Panyin Mensah, the woman at the centre of the fake kidnapping and pregnancy case GH¢7,200 on grounds of publication of false news.
The court also acquitted her of the charge of deceiving a public officer.
In September 2021, Josephine Panyin Mensah was all over the media for her alleged kidnapping story, which worried her family and the country.
When she was found in Axim, several miles away from Takoradi, she was mute, unkempt, and without any sign of the said pregnancy.
Claims that she delivered on the same day she was allegedly kidnapped with the baby taken by her supposed kidnappers were scrutinized after the Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah said the pregnancy was fake.
Further, police investigations affirmed the Minister’s report on the matter that there was no pregnancy and that the kidnapping incident was staged.
Former Ghana U20 goalkeeper, Daniel Agyei has expressed confidence in the quality of Asante Kotoko goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim.
Speaking on Original FM during the Super Sports Show, the experienced goalie urged the Black Stars goalkeeper to prepare and be ready for his chance in the Ghana national team.
“Danlad has what it takes to be at the Black stars. He has been superb currently going through the ranks of starlets to Galaxies it’s not surprising that he has been given the opportunity to be named in the Black stars squad List
“Danlad has to be focused and ready for any opportunity given to him at the world cup and he will surely deliver,” Daniel Agyei said.
Danlad Ibrahim, 19, is currently with the Black Stars in Abu Dhabi where Ghana is holding a short pre-tournament camp.
The teenage goalkeeper is one of three goalkeepers Ghana is taking to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
He must work to earn playing time at the upcoming tournament in Qatar.
The midfielder started his first game for his national team this morning in the final friendly match of the Black Stars ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Paired against Elisha Owusu for the first time, Abdul Salis Samed put up a top performance to the delight of his manager and Ghanaians who watched the match.
In a game played at the Zayed Sports City Stadium, there were lots of action in the first half as Ghana dominated play.
Unfortunately, the team failed to convert the chances that were created and had to settle for a draw at the break.
However, thanks to a strong display from the Black Stars, the team held on for as long as they needed to.
Following a number of changes at the hour mark, Ghana regained control of the game and continued to dominate.
In the 69th minute, Mohammed Salisu scored his first Ghana goal to give the Black Stars a deserved lead.
Five minutes later, Bristol City attacker Antoine Semenyo pounced on a loose ball in the six-yard box of the Swiss, and fired a shot from close range that found the back of the net.
Eventually, the Black Stars cruised to a 2-0 win to wrap up their training camp in Abu Dhabi in style.
Abdul Salis Samed in the game today did enough and is a strong candidate for a starting role in Ghana’s first match against Portugal on November 24.
Barnieh, who is one of two local players in Ghana’s 26-man squad for the 2022 World Cup delivered an unforgettable performance in his first start for Ghana.
His gliding runs down the right side for Ghana in the first half created headaches for the Swiss defence who struggled to deal with the former Under-20 forward.
Barnieh created a number of chances and could have earned Ghana a penalty had the centre referee spotted the tripping of him by Eray Comert.
Mohammed Kudus cut into a post-match interview to commend Afriyie Barnieh for his excellent performance in the game.
“Chaley, today you did well. I really enjoyed your performance” he said while patting the back of Afriyie Barnieh who was speaking to Joy FM in a post-match interview.
The Phobians today locked horns with their capital rivals at the Accra Sports Stadium to battle for points on matchday seven of the 2022/23 Ghanaian top-flight league campaign.
Today, although Hearts of Oak did not have a good start, the team managed to grow into the game as the contest progressed.
In the 22nd minute, highly-rated Gladson Awako pulled a rabbit out of a hat when he fired an unstoppable shot from distance.
His effort went straight into the back of the net of Accra Lions as the goalkeeper watched on helplessly.
While that goal would send the visitors into the break with a deserved lead, the team unfortunately had been reduced to ten men after a red card was shown to the goal scorer.
Regardless, Hearts of Oak needed just three minutes in the second half to increase their lead.
Salifu Ibrahim stepped up to take a penalty kick and converted from 12 yards to give his team a 2-goal lead.
Although Seidu Bassit would score in the 79th minute to half the deficit for Accra Lions, Hearts of Oak secured an eventual 3-1 win thanks to a late strike from Benjamin Yorke.
The 2009 U-20 World Cup winner featured when the Black Stars inflicted a 2-0 win over the European country in a pre-World Cup friendly in Abu Dhabi.
The Al Sadd star lasted the entire duration and did not disappoint. The 32-year-old, on the other hand, showed no signs of fatigue, covering a lot of ground as he supported the defense whenever Switzerland attacked.
Ayew completed 89% of his passes (25/28), attempted two long balls that were both perfect, and won three ground duels as well as two aerial duels.
In a new interview with Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes, Kevin Durant opened up about a variety of topics, including his trade request over the summer, as well as his relationship with teammate Kyrie Irving.
When asked about how his leadership compares to other superstars around the league, KDtouched on how he was criticized for not pushing Kyrie to get vaccinated.
“I’m not a leader? What the fuck does that mean?” Durant said. “A lot of people say I’m not a leader because I didn’t tell Kyrie to get vaccinated. Come on. Or I didn’t condemn Kyrie for leaving the team, going out and living his life. I’m not about to tell a grown-ass man what he can and can’t do with his own life and dissect his views or how he thinks about shit.”
“We can have a conversation and exchange perspectives on how I feel about the topic and you feel about the topic, but everybody else don’t need to know or hear about our conversations because we’re grown-ass men. I don’t operate like that,” he added.
Elsewhere in the interview, Durant discussed why he requested a trade over the summer, revealing that it had more to do with the Nets not holding him accountable, than it had to do with Brooklyn not surrounding him with enough talent.
“It wasn’t difficult at all to request a trade because it was about ball,” Durant told Haynes. “I went to them and was like, ‘Yo, I don’t like how we are preparing. I don’t like shootarounds. I like practices. I need more. I want to work on more shit. Hold me accountable. Get on my ass in film if that’s going to help you get on everybody else’s head. I want to do more closeouts. I want to work on more shell drills at practice.’”
Durant continued, “This was the type of shit I was coming at them with. It wasn’t like, ‘Yo, y’all need to make sure everybody around me can make my life easier.’ Hell nah, I want to make everybody else’s life easier. Ask Steve Nash, you can go call him right now. I would say, ‘Yo, I need more closeout drills. We need to practice more.’ That’s what I was on.”
As for the Nets’ chances of contending for a title, Durant maintained that the team shouldn’t be expected to win simply because KD is on the floor.
“Look at our starting lineup. Edmond Sumner, Royce O’Neale, Joe Harris, [Nic] Claxton and me. It’s not disrespect, but what are you expecting from that group?” Durant asked. “You expect us to win because I’m out there. So if you’re watching from that lens, you’re expecting us to play well because No. 7 is out there.”
Acting Director of Television, Ghana Broadcasting Cooperation (GBC), Mr. George Lomotey, has called on the radio stations which will want to run commentary on the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in Qatar, to consult GBC for the rights.
According to him, it is illegal to run commentary on the 2022 FIFA World Cup matches from TV sets by any radio station in Ghana without obtaining broadcasting rights from GBC.
Speaking on the GTV’s Breakfast Show on Thursday, November 17, 2022, Mr. Lomotey explained that GBC is the only media entity that has the sole right to run radio commentary from all 64 matches.
“Again, GBC also has the sole rights to free-to-air broadcasting as well as a public viewing of the 2022 FIFA World Cup,” he added.
“The process is not a difficult one, just contact GBC, go through the documentation, pay something little, and be part of the fun. The World Cup is a festival and we in GBC want as many radio stations to come on board so that we can all share the fun.” Mr. Lomotey reiterated
He explained further that radio stations in Accra and Kumasi can contact GBC directly, while those in the remaining regions can do so through the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) for the necessary arrangements.
Aside from the GTV and GTV Sports which is the lead consultant, Obonu TV and Garden City TV will also telecast the matches in Ga and Twi languages respectively while all the 18 radio stations of GBC across the country will run commentary on every match day. Mr. Lomotey disclosed.
On his part, the Head of Corporate Affairs, Multichoice Ghana, Nii Amah Dagadu, on the Breakfast Show affirmed the assertion made by the Acting Director of Television, GBC that no radio station in Ghana can run commentary from a television set or Multichoice decoder without the express permission and right from the nation’s broadcaster.
Mr. Dagadu explained that although DSTV has a commercial page that allows pubs, hotels, and night clubs to show the matches in their (normal setting) places, those outfits cannot mount for instance 20 x16 foot giant screen at a car park or an open space for public viewing.
GBC is partnering with DSTV to broadcast this year’s FIFA World Cup tournament and also to ensure media houses in Ghana comply with all the laydown rules and guidelines governing the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Members of the National House of Chiefshave been taken through the new Lands Law, Act 1036 of 2020, which is a blend of existing laws and new ones providing a comprehensive regulatory framework on ownership, acquisition, security, and revenue from land as well as punishment against breaches of the law.
A Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in charge of Forestry, Mr. Benito Owusu Bioh, urged traditional leaders, who, together with families, own about 80 percent of the total lands in Ghana, to accept and own the Act and also make input into the promulgation of a Legislative Instrument for the operationalisation of the law in the interest of peace, order and posterity.
The 3rd General Meeting of the National House of Chiefs was also used by the President of the House, Ogyeahohuo Yaw Gyebi, who is also the paramount chief of Sefwi Ahwiaso in the Western North region, to swear into the House three of the five representatives of the Western region.
Ogueahohuo Yaw Gyebi-Prez, NHC.
They are Angama Tu-Gyan, chief of Dwira; Tetrete Okuamoah, Wassa; and Obrempong Hema Dekyi of Upper Discove. They swore the Oath of Office while the Supervising High Court Judge of Kumasi, Justice Kofi Akrowiah, took them through the Official Oath and Oath of Secrecy to allow them to assume their duties and privileges.
Swearing-in of the Reps of the Western Regional House of Chiefs.
There was also a delegation of the Local Government Studies led by its Director, Professor Nicholas Awortwe, to solicit the views of the chiefs on the Democratic Decentralisation Reforms in Ghana, particularly the proposed amendment to Articles 55(3), 242(d), and 243 of the 1992 Constitution towards the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives as well as making the local level elections partisan.
Similarly, a Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Benito Owusu Bioh, led members of the Lands Commission to educate members of the House on key provisions of the new Lands law, Act 1036 of 2020, and the Land Administration Act.
The Act provides for the ownership, acquisition, security, and tenure of lands in the country.
A group photograph of the Ministry’s delegation and Prez of the NHC, Ogueahohuo Yaw Gyebi.
Additionally, the Act proscribes the use of thugs, otherwise known as ‘Land Guards,” and encroachment on compulsorily acquired lands with the stipulated punishment.
The Administrator of Stool Lands, Mrs. Ama Edumadze-Aquah, said it is now mandatory for every Traditional Council to set up a Secretariat purposely for the administration of Customary Lands within its jurisdiction. She entreated the chiefs to closely monitor the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in the utilisation of revenue from the stool lands.
“Regulation 21 of the L.I. calls on District Assemblies to use their 55 % share of the Stool Land revenue for the development of projects in their catchment areas and also associated general expenditure. Also, it is expected that the Assemblies shall indicate that the project has been funded with Stool Land revenue by labeling it as such when it is completed,” the Stool Lands Administrator disclosed.
A Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, in charge of Forestry, Mr. Benito Owusu Bioh, urged traditional leaders, who together with families own about 80 per cent of the total lands in the country, to appreciate and own the new Lands law, Act 1036 of 2020 while making an input into the formulation and enactment of the required Legislative Instrument for the law’s operationalization.
Mr. Owusu Bioh entreated “the members of the House of Chiefs to embrace the provisions of this Act to help bring sanity to our land sector. Also, the House should deliberate on the Act and propose inputs to the Ministry for consideration in drafting the L.I. for the Act.”
Black Stars forward Daniel Afriyie Barnieh believes that his incredible performance against Switzerland was due to his application of the teachings of coach Otto Addo and his technical team.
Barnieh, in a Joy FM interview, discounted perceived pressure on him to excel, stating that he enjoyed the match against Switzerland on November 17, 2022.
“I feel good with my debut. It was a good game and there was no pressure. I stuck to what the coaches said and everything went well for me”, he said.
Barnieh’s performance caught the eye of Mohammed Kudus who showered praises on him for delivering an excellent performance.
“Chaley, today you did well. I really enjoyed your performance” he said while patting the back of Afriyie Barnieh who was granting an interview to Joy FM.
The Black Stars wrapped up preparations for the World Cup with a 2-0 win over Switzerland on November 17, 2022.
Centre back Mohammed Salisu and forward Antoine scored in the second half to give Otto Addo’s side a big victory over the Swiss.
Barnieh and his Black Stars teammates will hope to have a great tournament when the World Cup kicks off on November 20, 2022.
The Black Stars begin their journey against Portugal before facing South Korea and Uruguay in Group H.
Goals from Mohammed Salisu and Antoine Semenyo gave Ghana the deserving win over their European opponents as they head to the 2022 World Cup in high spirits.
Southampton defender, Mohammed Salisu scored the first goal of the match with a header from a corner kick effected by Daniel Kofi Kyereh.
The goal which was the first goal of the defender inspired Ghana to another goal when striker Antoine Semenyo launched on a glorious pass from Kamaldeen Sulemana to slot home a volley.
Kid Cudi has chosen to remain positive, despite his recent Grammys snub.
A day after the 2023 nods were announced, Cudi took to Twitter to address his noticeable absence from the nominee list. Some fans suspected he would secure at least one nomination for his eighth studio album, Entergalactic, which complimented his animated Netflix series by the same name. The concept project delivered a total of 15 tracks, and included guest appearances by Ty Dolla Sign, 2 Chainz, Don Toliver, Steve Aoki, and Dot da Genius. Entergalactic debuted at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 back in October, marking Cudi’s seventh project to hit the chart’s top 20.
Though it garnered generally favorable reviews and respectable streaming numbers, the album failed to secure a single nomination for the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. Many fans were, of course, frustrated by the snub. But Cudi? He didn’t appear to be too upset; in fact, he seemed pretty optimistic that the album would one day get the proper recognition.
“Music award shows have been virtually ignoring me for over 10 years,” he tweeted. “I see people upset that I didn’t get a nom but its ok y’all. The acting world will be kinder to me. Im already winning awards for Entergalactic and when Emmy season comes around, we’ll see what time it is.”
He continued: “The music was a hugeeee part of Entergalactic, and people wouldn’t be raving about the event if the music wasn’t on the level. So don’t even trip y’all. I know this album was beautiful, I know I gave it my all, and I know what I did with Netflix is something that changes the game.”
Music award shows have been virtually ignoring me for over 10 years. I see people upset that I didnt get a nom but its ok yall. The acting world will be kinder to me. Im already winning awards for Entergalactic and when Emmy season comes around, we’ll see what time it is. 😌
The music was a hugeeee part of Entergalactic, and people wouldnt be raving about the event if the music wasnt on the level. So dont even trip yall. I know this album was beautiful, I know I gave it my all, and I know what I did with Netflix is something that changes the game
Cudi is currently on the road for his To the Moon World Tour with support by Strick, Denzel Curry, and 070 Shake. During the trek, Cudi sparked retirement rumors after he told fans he would drop one more album to complete his deal with Republic Records.
“Im doin 1 more album and then im done w my deal and not sure what ima do after that but yea, 1 more,” he tweeted earlier this month. “Wont be next year. Keep u posted.”
He then shared a few details about what his next project would deliver.
This is for all my fans that have been ridin w me for so long. This will be all new music. The songs ive teased ill prolly put out as singles here and there to hold u over
The Saglemi Affordable Housing Project, according to Deputy Information Minister, Fatimatu Abubakar, will not be affordable after completion.
She revealed during a panel discussion on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning show on Monday, November 14, 2022 that one unit can “cost in excess of $205,000”.
“The truth is that it will be deceptive on my part to say this project will be affordable because already government has invested $160m and we need an additional $114m . . . one apartment of a two-bedroom house will cost in excess of $205,000 per unit,” she added.
The project was initiated in 2012 under the erstwhile Mahama government for the delivery of 5,000 housing units at a total cost of US$200 million under an Engineering-Procurement-Contracting (EPC) Agreement with Messrs Construtora OAS Ghana Limited.
Explaining to Ghanaians why the project stalled and why government is calling on the private sector to take charge, Francis Asenso-Boakye, on ‘Kokrokoo’ on Tuesday, November 15, disclosed that the Mahama administration received 200 million dollars to build 5,000 houses but failed to complete the project.
“Even with the 1,500 that I am talking about, they were not even complete. They said it is at various stages of completion. Some were 90% complete and some 20%, so the 1,500 were not all completed. Also, it was inhabitable because there is no electricity connection to the place. There is no water connection to the place and other important amenities that, without them, will make living there very difficult,” he expounded.
Mr Asenso-Boakye said because the current administration is committed to completing the project, his ministry has tasked the Ghana Institution of Surveyors to evaluate the housing unit and the findings pointed out that the Mahama government had spent $196 million representing 98% of the project funds without providing the basic amenities that will make it possible for people to live in the houses nor had they completed the 1,500 houses to make it available for people.
This contribution forms approximately 7.7% of the government’s total tax revenue in 2021.
According to the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, GH¢722 million was in withholding taxes, GH¢657.4 million was accrued from Value Added Tax (VAT), and 571 million was in levies such as National Health Insurance Levy.
Again, the Chamber says Mobile Money is the key driver and enabler of Ghana’s cashlite and financial inclusion agenda.
In this regard, the Center for Economics Finance and Inequality Studies said any attempt at levying users would not drive usage and the anticipated revenue would be difficult to achieve.
“As the e-levy depends on value, the maximum of GH100 exemption per day, although protecting the poor, opens up the avenue for users of mobile money to schedule their transactions and use other strategies to avoid the payment of e-levy.” “For many, with the current e-levy of 1.50%, only low value “Mobile Money” transactions are affected,” it said.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor (MP) has sought to whip up the interest of the investor community in the country’s mining industry by urging them to direct their resources into helping the government achieve its ambition of positioning Ghana as a hub for the refinery of lithium, iron, bauxite, and other minerals on the continent.
In a brief address delivered when the Turkish Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency, Mrs Ozlem Ergun led a delegation of investors from Turkey to pay a courtesy call on him on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, the Minister remarked that the two countries have historically shared strong relations.
He stated that the government of Ghana wants to chart a new trajectory in its diplomatic relations which will be anchored on economic development.
Hon. Jinapor mentioned that aluminum and bauxite hold strategic value to Turkey and that he is confident that the country’s rich resources coupled with the investment-friendly regulations in the space will convince the Turkish investors to channel their resources into those sectors.
The Minister’s remarks were triggered by a statement from the Turkish Ambassador, HE. Ozlem Ergun that investors from her country were exploring investment opportunities in Ghana’s mining industry.
Disclosing the purpose of her visit, HE Ozlem Ergun stated that her country views Ghana as a destination for economic relations and would like to cooperate with relevant stakeholders to take advantage of Ghana’s rich mineral resources to create employment for Ghanaians.
On his part, the Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mining, Hon. George Mireku Duker said the country is willing to collaborate at all levels with the investors as long as the partnership will be mutually beneficial to the two parties.
He assured that the country is blessed with rich lithium and iron resources and that any investor who channels his funds into those sectors will enjoy tremendous profits.
This follows the conclusion of negotiations on the determination of the 2023 National Daily Minimum Wage (NDMW) at its meeting held on Wednesday, 16th November, 2022 in Accra.
The determination was based on Section 113 (1) (a) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
At the end of the meeting, it was concluded that for the year 2023, the minimum wage would be pegged at GH¢14.88, an increase in the NDMW by 10% over the 2022 NDMW.
A press statement announcing the new rates said the current economic crisis strongly influenced the percentage increment in the national daily minimum wage rate among others.
“In determining the 2023 NDMW, the NTC took into account the current economic challenges, cost of living, sustainability of businesses and desirability of attaining higher level of employment, as well as the need for rapid restoration of macroeconomic stability.”
The effective date for implementing the 2023 NDMW is 1st January 2023.
Speaking to EIB subsidiary station in Nkawkaw, Agoo FM, one of the Assembly members who led the protest, Boamah Alexander said the nomadic herdsmen are destroying their farms with impunity and unleashing terror on farmers.
He alleged that many farmers have been attacked by lawless herdsmen.
The farmers petitioned the Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency Bryan Acheampong, Kwahu Tafo Chief, and the Kwahu East Assembly.
“We the farmers of Kwahu Tafo write with great concern this petition to bring to your notice the difficulties and challenges we are going through as a result of the presence of Fulani herdsmen in our community. Some of us cultivate cash crops especially cocoa and the majority of us are subsistence farmers who grow crops like maize, cassava, yam and cocoyam, tomatoes, pepper, carrots, cabbage, green pepper, and cucumber” excerpts of the petition stated.
“Our concern is that, the herdsmen allow their cattle to come to our farms and destroy our crops. The destruction of our crops usually occurs in night. The following morning we go to our farms to find out our crops have been completely destroyed. In some cases, they deliberately burn the bush in which the new growth serves as grazing ground for their animals”.
The farmers alleged that “most of the herdsmen armed themselves with rifles when they walk around in the bush which in itself is very intimidating. We are experiencing untold hardship as a result of their nefarious activities which are adversely affecting our farming activities and livelihood and thereby posting a threat to our very existence. We are therefore presenting this petition to you to bring to the fore the plight of farmers of Kwahu Tafo as a result of the presence of Fulani herdsmen on our farmlands”
The aggrieved farmers are demanding an immediate clamp down on the herdsmen.
“We are by this petition demanding the removal of these herdsmen from our farmlands to enable us farm peacefully. We count so much on your kind cooperation in this regard and look forward to a swift response to our plea”.
Kwahu Afram Plains area is notorious for fatal clashes between farmers and nomadic herdsmen particularly during the dry season.
General Secretary of the Tabital Pulaaki International, Ghana Chapter, Yakubu Musah Barry has called on government and the National Security Ministry to check the illegal entry of hundreds of Fulani herdsmen from Saharan countries to Ghana during dry seasons.
He said the situation is not only a threat to national security but also to food security.
He said some of these nomadic herdsmen may be kidnappers, hardened criminals, or terrorists who enter the country unchecked and commit atrocities and crimes in farming communities.
Government established a cattle ranch at Wawase to address their situation however many of the herdsmen have abandoned the facility.
The Tamale Central MP demands a thorough investigation be launched into the situation, arguing that it is insufficient to revoke Charles Adu Boahen’s appointment as the Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance.
He says investigations should be conducted on everyone named in the undercover program, including the Vice President.
“The hasty attempt to clear himself won’t work. He said on GHOne TV, “The Vice President is not above being examined.
This comes after the Secretary to the President, upon the directions of the President, referred to the Office of the Special Prosecutor for further investigations, allegations contained in the investigative exposé published by Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ Tiger Eye P.I. titled “Galamsey Economy”.
Charles Adu Boahen, Minister of State in charge of Finance at the Office of the President, captured in an undercover documentary, revealed to Tiger Eye that the Vice President, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, needs just USD200,000 token as an appearance fee and some positions by an investor for the Vice President’s siblings to get his backing and influence in establishing a business in Ghana.
This revelation was made in a meeting with Tiger Eye investigators, who in an undercover investigation, posed as businessmen, in a hotel room in the United Arab Emirates. This was an investigation into top-level corruption that undermines investor confidence in Ghana.
According to Charles Adu Boahen, the Vice President needs an appearance fee of only USD 200,000 for him to avail himself and offer his support to an investor.
This was when he was asked by the supposed businessmen on how an investor can get the attention of the Vice President and what must be given to him when finally in his presence.
“You mean, like appearance fees and stuff? I mean he, himself (the Vice President), if you give him some (USD) 200,000 or something as a token, as thank you, appreciation, that’s fine. He’s not really, he’s not really (like) that. All he needs is to worry about his campaign money in 2020,” Charles Adu Boahen revealed.
Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia said in a statement the video showed Adu Boahen “apparently using my name, inter alia, to peddle influence and collect money from supposed investors”.
“I would like to state that if what the minister (Adu Boahen) is alleged to have said is accurately captured in the video, then his position as a minister of state is untenable. He should be dismissed summarily and investigated,” Bawumia said.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has sacked Charles Adu Boahen, the minister of state at the Finance Ministry following allegations of impropriety circulated by investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
Johnny Depp’s daughter has yet to comment on her father’s messy legal battle—and it appears she never will.
In an Elle magazine cover story, Lily-Rose Depp explained why she’s remained silent about her dad’s defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard. The 23-year-old model/actress, whose mother is Vanessa Paradis, said her parents always made it a point to protect her and her younger brother from the dark side of fame, and that growing up in the public eye gave her a deep respect for privacy.
“My parents protected my brother [Jack] and me from it as much as possible,” she said. “I know my childhood didn’t look like everybody’s childhood, and it’s a very particular thing to deal with, but it’s also the only thing that I know.” She went on to add, “It’s different experiencing [fame] firsthand rather than by proxy. I guess it’s something that I’ve had to make my own way with.”
Depp feels her father’s legal drama was simply too personal for her to publicly address.
“When it’s something that’s so private and so personal that all of a sudden becomes not so personal…I feel really entitled to my secret garden of thoughts,” she said. “I also think that I’m not here to answer for anybody, and I feel like for a lot of my career, people have really wanted to define me by the men in my life, whether that’s my family members or my boyfriends, whatever. And I’m really ready to be defined for the things that I put out there.”
After a weeks-long trial earlier this year, Johnny Depp and Heard were each found liable for defamation. The Pirates of the Caribbean star pointed to a 2018 Washington Post op-ed in which Heard implied Depp had abused her during their relationship. Heard filed her own defamation suit alleging her ex-husband’s attorney, Adam Waldman, had defamed her by dismissing her abuse claims as a hoax. Johnny Depp was ultimately awarded $15 million damages, and Heard $2 million in damages.
Earlier this month, Depp filed to appeal the $2 million verdict awarded to Heard, arguing he was not responsible for Waldman’s comments. He also claimed he wasn’t aware of his lawyer’s remarks until after Heard filed the countersuit.
Shortly after Heard’s abuse allegations came to light, a then-17-year-old Lily-Rose defended her father on Instagram. The 2016 post included a photo of Johnny Depp holding up Lily-Rose when she was a toddler.
“My dad is the sweetest most loving person I know,” she wrote. “He’s been nothing but a wonderful father to my little brother and I, and everyone who knows him would say the same.”
The censure motion brought by the Parliamentary Minority against the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, according to James Kwabena Bomfeh, managing editor of the National Forum newspaper, is a ruse to bring down President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his administration.
Cassiel Ato Forson, a former deputy finance minister and current representative for the Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam constituency, and Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu were offered as witnesses by the minority to present the case for Mr. Ken Ofori-dismissal. Atta’s
They raised issues bordering on corruption and conflict of interest to support their arguments.
Speaking at the committee sitting, Gabby Otchere-Darko, a private legal practitioner and a leading member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) said such a probe is the mandate of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).
“Our issue is that, if you go to Article 284 of the Constitution, it says that, a public officer shall not put himself in a position where his personal interest conflicts or is likely to conflict with the function of his office.”
“If you combine that with Article 287 which says an allegation which contravenes or not complied with this chapter shall be made to CHRAJ. The relevant part is that, when a public officer is to face a charge or allegation or any ground of conflict of interest, it is CHRAJ that the constitution says must deal with it,” he added.
But Haruna Iddrisu, in defence, stated that, “this Committee is not only to hear [the allegations], it also has the power to do a further inquiry into all government borrowing; who got what, when and how? All the domestic bonds we have done, for instance, the Euro Bond, who got what? We must be interested in whether our inquiry, engendered a conflict of interest or not”.
To James Kwabena Bomfeh, also called ‘Kabila’, the Minority’s aim for the censure motion is not to evict the Finance Minister but rather to embarass the President and have cause to impeach him.
Making his submissions on Peace FM’s ‘Kokrokoo’ programme, he said; “When I saw the evidence that the Minority had gathered for the censure, I realized the Minister is not their target. The President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is their target . . . Any problem you have with any budget is an attack on the President and his cabinet. When you read what they sent, they said he has presented a budget that’s failed to solve the economic problems and challenges. That is the point; so at the hub of this censure is the Minority targeting to bring President Akufo-Addo and his entire Cabinet down.”
He rebuked the Minority saying, “our consistent conduct of duplicity in politics in Ghana will collapse this country. It will kill and destroy this nation and crumble on all of us. If it’s the President you want to impeach, go ahead and do so”.
Kabila warned against the conduct of the Minority, explaining that any accusations that have to do with conflict of interest, embezzlement, corruption and the likes against a Minister is to be referred to CHRAJ or the court, hence they using the ad-hoc Committee to deal with such issues is somehow a constitutional breach.
“It is to cause an embarrassment to the government and the President and his Ministers,” he further scolded about the Minority’s censure motion.
Former Ashanti Regional Minister, John Alexander Ackon has chastised the governing New Patriotic Party over how poorly it has managed Ghana’s economy.
He is concerned about how the cost of fuel and the depreciation of the cedi has worsened the lives of Ghanaians.
Mr. Ackon said economically, Ghanaians are suffering due to the astronomic prices of Liquefied Petroleum Gas and transport fares.
He added that economic indicators under this NPP government is the worst ever witnessed.
Speaking at the just ended regional Executives elections of the NDC, the former Ashanti Regional Minister described the NPP as only good at “breaking the economy but cannot break the 8.”
Mr. John Alexander Ackon observed that the hikes in transport fares for instance has slowed the pace at which people from Obuasi do business in Kumasi.
“No doubt prices of goods and services have gone up, transport fares are killing Ghanaians. Currently, traders from Obuasi to Kumasi have to pay 60 cedis on transport fares, continuous hikes in price of fuel is crippling businesses”, he observed.
According to him, the NPP government has crippled many Small and Medium-scale Enterprises.
Mr. Ackon said Agric Minister’s short term measure in dealing with hikes in food prices is “childish.”
For him, it is a clear indication government is short of ideas to address the current economic woes.
“Transporting food to the Ministry to sell is wrong, is it feeding Ghana or is Accra or Ministries, is it feeding Adabraka or is feeding Kaneshie, their ideas is gone, is finished, ” he said.
The former Ashanti Regional Minister in comparing the previous government to the current administration, said the NDC is the best.
The Minority contends that in light of the present economic uncertainty, it is unacceptable for claims to be owed that are much greater than the statutory maximums.
According to a Minority statement signed by Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, “Government must, as a matter of urgency, restore to the regular and predictable schedules as envisioned in the NHIA Act and report to parliament as necessary.”
The Minority, however, is pleading with manufacturers, importers and wholesalers of pharmaceuticals and private health service providers to delay the imposition of top-up costs to reduce mortality and morbidity even as they try to engage government to release all collections of NHIL to the NHIF.
Read the Minority’s full statement below:
STATEMENT BY THE MINORITY IN PARLIAMENT ON THE RECENT THREAT BY THE PRIVATE HEALTH FACILITIES ASSOCIATION OF GHANA TO INTRODUCE TOP-UP PAYMENTS FOR NHIA CLIENTS
The Minority in Parliament has taken note of a statement issued by the Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana in which it threatened to pass on top-up payments to NHIS clients within their facilities. This they claim is due to extensive delays in the payment of claims by the NHIA, the Ghana Cedi Depreciation and the rising inflation on drugs and non-medical consumables. Unconfirmed reports suggest that some facilities have already started passing on these top-up costs to their patients.
As alarmed as we are by these reports, we are not surprised considering the current economic conditions and the fact that government has not responded to the series of statements, appeals and threats made by various players within the pharmaceutical value chain.
On the 19″ of October this year, a joint press statement was issued by the GHANA NATIONAL CHAMBER OF PHARMACY (GNCOP), the PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURERS and the PHARMACEUTICAL IMPORTERS & ASSOCIATION OF GHANA (PMAG), WHOLESALERS ASSOCIATION OF GHANA (PIWA) warning all concerned that they were no longer going to give credit to health facilities. They cited the unprecedented levels of inflation and the non-payment of claims by the NHIA as reasons for which they are withdrawing all credit lines to health facilities. We expected that government would have intervened with appropriate measures such as transferring to the NHIF all outstanding collections of NHIL and SSNIT contributions as mandated by the National Health Insurance Act 2012 (Act 852) Section 52(1). This intervention never happened.
Unfortunately, there rather seems to be an unwavering effort to collapse the National Health Insurance Scheme by depriving it of funds. As we speak, the highest release of NHIL levies collected was in 2016 when 86% of collections were released to the NHIA. The lowest on record is that of last year where government out of the GHS2.056bn it collected paid only GHS 127m or 6.2% to the NHIA fund. We have issued several statements calling on the Minister for Finance to release National Health Insurance Levies and the component of SSNIT contributions meant for the scheme to the National Health Insurance Fund all to no avail. After several weeks, the Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana have also threatened to pass on top-up payments to NHIS clients who use their facilities. This foreboding news wreaks fear in the hearts of many who frequent healthcare facilities across the country.
It is trite knowledge that inflation has been spiralling out of control for some months now due in part to central bank financing of the budget leading to a situation in which inflation has exceeded the Bank of Ghana’s upper limit of 10% and currently stands at two decades-high 40.4%. This has impacted the pricing of all goods and services from food, fuel, and other consumables, and has eliminated disposable incomes and savings previously used to finance healthcare costs.
Under the current economic conditions more Ghanaians, than ever before, will require the National Health Insurance Scheme to finance their medical needs. It is therefore unconscionable for government to hold on to monies collected in the name of the NHIA rendering it incapable of meeting its obligations to service providers.
This is going to increase morbidity and mortality across Ghana.
As we speak, patients in some hospitals across the country are being asked to make upfront payments for medical consumables and services. This is likely to increase morbidity in persons with hypertension, diabetes, sickle-cell anaemia, HIV, and other conditions who require regular intake of medical consumables and services resulting in undue stress on already overburdened medical facilities.
If nothing is done, we foresee high mortality rates among patients who lack the resources to pay for the services of healthcare providers or delay presentation at health facilities.
The demand for the National Health Insurance Authority to clear at least 6 months of submitted claims and provide one month’s reimbursement every month is apropos.
However, as Members of Parliament, we will want to caution the finance minister to as a matter of urgency release all collections of NHIL to the National Health Insurance Fund without delay.
The current situation of owing claims far above the statutory limits cannot be acceptable under these precarious economic situations. Government must, as a matter of urgency, revert to the regular and reliable schedules as envisioned in the NHIA Act and report to parliament as required.
We also plead with manufacturers, importers and wholesalers of pharmaceuticals and private health service providers to delay the imposition of top-up costs to reduce mortality and morbidity even as they try to engage government on this matter.
The health of our citizens is in the balance and our National Health Insurance Scheme must not be allowed to collapse.
Thank you.
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh
(Ranking Member Parliamentary Select Committee on Health)
Popular Ghanaian gospel singer, Samuel Opoku, popularly known as ‘Brother Sammy’, has urged single suitors to exercise patience and not to rush into marriage.
According to him, marriage is a complex enterprise, and therefore the need for prospective entrants to take their time and make good judgments.
Speaking in an interview with Roselyn Felli on Prime Morning, the singer described marriage as a ‘cage’, which has posed a lot of problems for many people.
Admonishing the public, he added that he would even prefer child birth to getting married.
“Marriage is cool, but the advice I’ll give to everybody is, don’t rush into marriage. Marriage is a cage. Don’t rush into marriage., because some people have married and they’re dying.
“Marriage has killed many people. As for me I love children more than marriage. Giving birth is better than getting married. Because if you fall ill today, your child will be by your side. But your spouse can neglect you in times of illness and go for another partner”, he said on Wednesday.
Buttressing his point, he narrated an incident where a man whose wife was in labour, reportedly ignored calls to attend to the woman, with the excuse of polishing his gold neck chains.
This he noted, is part of some of the bizarre occurrences in marriage; reason for which people should be discerning in choosing a life partner.
The advice from the gospel artsite comes at a time when social media has been awash with disturbing accounts of broken unions and failed marital episodes.
Not long ago, Brother Sammy himself was in the thick of such narratives, when rumors circulated about his his alleged infidelity, leading to his divorce with his wife, Mrs Perpetual Opoku.
The singer however, debunked the allegations, and dismissed it as deliberate attempts to stir confusion in his home.
After emerging on the scene about a decade ago, Brother Sammy, as he is affectionately called is now known for his soul-stirring Twi tunes; which always endears him to his audience.
The Kumasi-based singer was mentored by the late Prophet Seth Frimpong, who assisted him on his path to stardom in Ghana.
In the budding stages of his career, he also worked with other notable names in the local gospel industry like Ernest Opoku and Oware Junior.
Anyaa-Sowutuom MP Dr Dickson Adomako Kissi says government’s minimum wage will always be at a lower rate than expected.
According to the politician, the minimum wage is to serve as a guide for employers to give remuneration due to their employees.
Therefore, he explained on JoyNews’ AM Show that it would not match the current economic situation.
“The key thing is that government minimum wage will always lag behind, that is a fact. It would never catch up with current situations because these negotiations have been ongoing for a long time. And the decision to increase this is not necessarily tagged to current times.
“This all started several months before today. And that is why government minimum wage will always, in fact, worldwide lag behind the times and that cannot be changed,” he said on Thursday.
Government has reviewed the minimum wage from ¢13.53 to ¢14.88, indicating a 10 per cent increment.
However, this upward adjustment is set to be effective on Sunday, January 1, 2023.
This comes on the heels of a continuous rise in inflation and depreciation of the currency which has caused periodic economic turmoil.
The situation which has generated overpricing of goods and services has compelled the Food and Agric Ministry to centralise the purchase of foodstuff where pricing can be controlled.
Meanwhile, social media users are unhappy about the increment.
According to them, a 10 per cent increment in the minimum wage is quite insignificant and does not match the current economic situation.
A delegation from the Lands Commission has held a meeting with the National House of Chiefs as part of stakeholder engagements on the new Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036).
The Act revises and consolidates previous enactments on lands into a single law, with the view to ensuring sustainable land administration and management, and effective and efficient land tenure.
The delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Benito Owusu Bio briefed the House on the rationale behind the new Act and how it would improve land administration in the country.
Heads of the various agencies under the Ministry took turns to explain their roles under the Act with a call on the Chiefs to be abreast with the Act.
They highlighted key provisions in the Act with emphasis on the Stool Occupants Accountability Regime under the new Land Act which allows indigenes to request accountability from occupants of stool lands.
Mr Benito Owusu Bio said enactment of the new Land Act was to resolve challenges confronting land administration in the country, including the proliferation of land guards, multiple sale of lands and insecurity.
“The Land Act aims at revising, harmonising and consolidating the laws of lands to ensure sustainable land administration and management,” the Deputy Minister emphasised.
He said the goal was to address some of the most pressing issues confronting land administration in the country, stressing that the Act could not work in isolation and required concerted efforts of all stakeholders for effective implementation of the provisions of the Act.
One way of ensuring this, he said, was to sensitise key stakeholders about the Act and the need to embrace it for the collective good of land administration in Ghana.
He said the Lands Commission under the supervision of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources held many stakeholder consultations, adding that, Chiefs being custodians of 80 per cent of lands in the country could not be left out.
The Deputy Minister acknowledged the fact that traditional authorities were one of the important stakeholders in the efficient implementation of the Act.
“I wish to humbly entreat members of the House of Chiefs to embrace the provisions of this Act to help bring sanity to our land administration. Also, I request the House to deliberate on the Act and propose inputs to the Ministry for consideration in drafting Legislative Instrument (LI) for the Act,” he implored the Chiefs.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the House, welcomed the initiative to engage the House on such an important matter and called for the cooperation of members for a successful meeting. Source: Myjoyonline.com
Even with new management and a new Board in place, the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) has not been able to resume processing crude oil, which has alarmed an energy think-tank called the Institute for Energy Policies and Research (INSTEPR).
On March 2, 2022, the board of directors and the current managing director, Jerry K. Hinson, were chosen. Eight months later, the refinery has not yet started up again.
“The majority of Ghanaians are wondering why Tema Oil Refinery isn’t operating.
The cost of petroleum goods has increased by more than 150% in recent months.
Because to the rise in the cost of products and transportation, the average Ghanaian has been put through tremendous hardship, according to a press release from the Energy think-tank.
The Institute for Energy Policies and Research (INSTEPR) says the situation is becoming worrying to industry experts as the “majority shareholder of the refinery[government] has been quiet on any plans to get the refinery working to cushion the suffering of Ghanaians.”
The last time the TOR refined crude oil was in April 2021, just before the appointment of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) on June 15, 2021, which was later replaced by a permanent MD and board.
But even before the new current MD and board took office, the Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, at the inauguration of the IMC, tasked it to, among other things, receive and assess viable partnerships towards reviving TOR.
Although the three-member IMC was at TOR for nine months, INSTEPR said no progress was recorded during the period, as there was neither procurement nor refining of crude.
The Executive Vice President for Health Affairs and Dean of Morehouse School of Medicine, Prof. Joseph Adrian Tyndall wants a renewed focus on maternal health equity in the global south.
He is worried about persistent high maternal mortality rates in these countries.
“For all who are focused on global health equity, we have to focus on outcomes. There is one outcome I think should be in focus.
“This issue of maternal mortality is extraordinarily important. When you look at the data it is very sobering.
“While maternal mortality rate in Europe is 1 in 11,000, areas in West and Central Africa record greater than 1,000 per 100,000 (births),” he explains.
He said this at the 6th African Conference on Emergency Medicine (AfCEM) in Accra.
The biennial African Conference on Emergency Medicine (AfCEM) is the only scientific conference that brings together stakeholders in African emergency care from across Africa and the world.
Previous conferences have been held in Kenya, Rwanda, Egypt and Ethiopia. The maiden conference was held in Ghana in 2012.
The 3-day conference rides on the theme: “The Role of Emergency Medicine in Achieving Universal Health Care: Research. Education. Clinical Care”
Dr. Joseph Bonney the president of African Federation for Emergency Medicine highlighted the progress of Emergency Medicine in Africa and the importance of maintaining great partnerships.
“Emergency medicine has seen growth amidst multiple challenges and many milestones have been reached.
“The African Federation for Emergency Medicine (AFEM), represents a broad coalition of national societies, organisations, and individuals from over 40 countries dedicated to securing high-quality emergency care across Africa,” he added.
They claim that being fired has increased their burdens in light of the current economic situation.
The workers also claimed that despite what had been reported in the media, the government had not treated them fairly.
The disgruntled employees claimed in a 3news story that the government’s reluctance to pay their salaries “had brought untold hardship to our members, especially in these difficult economic times…
“We also wish to emphatically state that, we have not been paid off contrary to rumours flying around in government circles,” the report added.
It would be recalled that the Ministry of Roads and Highways on November 17 2022, called for the immediate discontinuation of the collection of tolls on all public roads and bridges across the country.
This order, according to a statement signed by the sector Minister, Kwasi Amoako-Attah, took effect on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at 12:00 am.
It followed the announcement by the Finance Ministry about the scrapping of tolls on all public roads in the 2022 budget presented by the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.
He explained that the move is to ease vehicular traffic at the toll booths.
The move by government saw over 800 toll workers rendered jobless. These workers were however promised to be reassigned and given their due.
Sudan, Ethiopia, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Egypt, Tunisia, Mali, Mozambique, Morocco, Mauritania, Niger, Eritrea, Algeria, Sudan, Benin, Rwanda, Chad, Kenya, and Libya are just a few of the many African nations that have been identified as among the thirty (30) nations in the world that are most at risk from the effects of climate change.
According to reports, these nations are experiencing the negative effects of climate change, including food crises, ocean acidification from rising CO2 levels, droughts, flood risks, storms, melting glaciers, rising sea levels that affect low-lying areas and coastal cities, declining crop yields, especially in tropical regions, and water shortages.
These negative effects are leading to the destruction of tropical forests, forest fires, Malnutrition and heat stress, spread of vector-borne disease e.g., malaria, dengue fever etc., Physical displacement of populations and risks of mass migrations, Damage to ecosystems and species extinction, Sudden shifts in weather patterns and many more problems that are confronting humanity and the environment.
Thus, international economist and a member of tralac Advisory Board who is also a former Chief Economist at the Word Trade Center, Patrick Low has challenged African countries to seize the opportunity of the ongoing COP 27 in Egypt to concentrate on Green Growth to improve competitiveness and enhance access in big markets.
Addressing the 2022 tralac Annual Conference in Nairobi, Kenya, Patrick Low who currently serves as a fellow of the Asia Global Institute emphasized that there is the need for a clear and united African position to addressing the climate issues affecting the continent considering the fact that Africa’s population will double by 2050.
Patrick Low distinguished between two main approaches to tackling climate change issues; namely abatement and adaptation where abatement which is also referred to also mitigation seeks to reduce emissions while adaptation refers to preparing the environment to sustain a given level of global warming. He however advised Africa to focus on the sustained growth trajectory relying on particularly the current integrated continental trading under AfCFTA.
“Africa’s challenge is not abatement, but rather mapping out a sustainable growth trajectory. Green growth will improve competitiveness and enhance access in big markets,” he advised.
The Geneva-based consultant on trade and trade-related matters also charged the continent to Support the development of a negotiated carbon price among major emitters and a market for carbon credits particularly when all the major emitters are not necessarily part of the top-tier list of countries that face the worse threats from climate change.
“It is in all countries’ interest to act maximally, especially the major emitters on abatement and the richer countries also with finance for adaptation around the world,” he recommended.
Patrick Low encouraged Africans to continue pushing for countries particularly big emitters of CO2 to fulfill their commitment to climate change financing in order to have funds tackle the adaptation approach of handling climate change.
“Keep up the pressure on financing, remind RoW that Africa is an important carbon sink,” the international economist advocated.
He added that adaptation is about reducing the impact of global warming and big emitters can pursue meaningful abatement policies, but this is less true of small emitters who are the most vulnerable to climate change with disparate income and development levels, vulnerabilities afflicting dozens of countries powerless to address them, even though everyone can play the appropriate part and therefore a Unified Africa can team with other parts of the world to corporate on the levels of addressing all climate change issues.
Efforts to curb importation of foreign products and promote the consumption of locally produced commodities are underway as the Bank of Ghana has withdrawn foreign exchange support for importation of what it describes as “non-essential” goods.
These goods include rice, vegetable oils,poultry, toothpicks, pasta, fruit juice, bottled water and ceramic tiles, etc.
The measure is in line with a directive issued by the President at his recent address to the nation on the Ghanaian economy, on Sunday 30th October, 2022, an electronic message from the Bank of Ghana to the banks said.
During the address the President mentioned that the Bank of Ghana will no longer provide FX support for the imports of rice, poultry, vegetable oils, toothpicks, pasta, fruit juice, bottled water, ceramic tiles and other non-critical goods”.
Although this was recently announced by the Bank of Ghana, reports indicate that the withdrawal took effect about three weeks ago.
“Please be advised and act accordingly”, the message added.
According to research by the Ghana National Association of Poultry Farmers (GNAPF), more than 600,000 tonnes of frozen chicken were imported into the country in 2021.
The data, sourced from the European Union (EU), indicated that 569 million pieces of frozen chicken were imported into the country last year, translating into $600 million.
This represented 98% of chicken consumed in the country.
Also, in 2018, President of Association Ghana Industry, Dr. Yaw Adu Gyamfi, disclosed that GHC 18 million worth of toothpicks were imported from China into the country in 2017 for its hospitality industry. This figure he said was recorded from January 2017 to December 2017.
Considering the high numbers of imports of these products, this policy has been touted as one that will help reduce the country’s exposure to imports.
It will also subsequently reduce the high demand for US dollars and other major foreign currencies, and consequently slow down the rapid depreciation of the cedi.
According to him, marriage is a complex enterprise, and therefore the need for prospective entrants to take their time and make good judgments.
Speaking in an interview with Roselyn Felli on Prime Morning, the singer described marriage as a ‘cage’, which has posed a lot of problems for many people.
Admonishing the public, he added that he would even prefer child birth to getting married.
“Marriage is cool, but the advice I’ll give to everybody is, don’t rush into marriage. Marriage is a cage. Don’t rush into marriage., because some people have married and they’re dying.
“Marriage has killed many people. As for me I love children more than marriage. Giving birth is better than getting married. Because if you fall ill today, your child will be by your side. But your spouse can neglect you in times of illness and go for another partner”, he said on Wednesday.
Buttressing his point, he narrated an incident where a man whose wife was in labour, reportedly ignored calls to attend to the woman, with the excuse of polishing his gold neck chains.
This he noted, is part of some of the bizarre occurrences in marriage; reason for which people should be discerning in choosing a life partner.
The advice from the gospel artsite comes at a time when social media has been awash with disturbing accounts of broken unions and failed marital episodes.
Not long ago, Brother Sammy himself was in the thick of such narratives, when rumors circulated about his his alleged infidelity, leading to his divorce with his wife, Mrs Perpetual Opoku.
The singer however, debunked the allegations, and dismissed it as deliberate attempts to stir confusion in his home.
After emerging on the scene about a decade ago, Brother Sammy, as he is affectionately called is now known for his soul-stirring Twi tunes; which always endears him to his audience.
The Kumasi-based singer was mentored by the late Prophet Seth Frimpong, who assisted him on his path to stardom in Ghana.
In the budding stages of his career, he also worked with other notable names in the local gospel industry like Ernest Opoku and Oware Junior.
Female nipples come in all shapes, colors, and sizes; people of every gender have them. Emily A. Klein(2019) a great science writer notes that for pregnant and lactating mothers, nipples can provide access to nourishment for a breastfeeding baby.
Additionally, the nipples are highly sensitive and responsive to stimulation, making nipple-sucking a great way to give and receive pleasure for folks of all genders.
Nipple anatomy
One article by O. Team(2019) explained that with regards to the nipple it has two structures: The nipple itself, which is a raised area with tiny holes that connect it to deeper tissues in the breast, and the areola, the relatively flat area of skin surrounding the nipple.
The nipple and areola are usually darker in color than the surrounding skin and have an irregular surface. Most people have two nipples, but it’s fairly common to have one or more extra nipples.
Why does nipple-sucking feel so good?
Nipples are made to be sucked on: During breastfeeding, tiny holes in the nipples allow milk to flow through ducts from milk-producing glands in the breast tissue. In response to a baby’s sucking, the pituitary gland of a breastfeeding parent releases the powerful hormone oxytocin, encouraging milk to flow and promoting bonding and caregiving behavior.
The O. Team(2019) article further explained that even in those who are not breastfeeding, sucking such nipples can stimulate the release of oxytocin, which also occurs during sexual arousal and orgasm.
They also held that oxytocin, which is also known as “the love hormone” has been found to reduce stress and increase sensations of trust and well-being. Because nipple sucking and oxytocin release are linked, nipple sucking may help to build feelings of closeness and intimacy with your partner. This is interesting for men to draw closer to their women by sucking their breasts.
As well as encouraging oxytocin to flow, the nipples are highly sensitive to touch and temperature and often become erect in response to sexual arousal. The nipples don’t have erectile tissue that fills with blood like the clitoris or penis; instead, they get hard due to the contraction (pulling together) of specialized muscles below the skin, similar to what happens when you get goosebumps(O. Team, 2019).
Nipple Stimulation and Labor
One study by Demirel et al. (2015) found that Nipple stimulation to induce labor is a safe and natural method of massaging nipples to release oxytocin, thereby increasing levels of the hormone that leads to labor. The study found that methodical nipple stimulation may be effective for starting contractions at full-term pregnancy, although there is limited research to prove its benefits. Another previous study(Chaudhry et al. 2011) found that 50% of the postpartum participants indicated they tried this or other non-medical ways to induce labor.
In pregnancy terms, when we say nipple stimulation, it means manually massaging the nipples, using a breast pump, or having another person (a nursing child or a partner) suck on the nipples to stimulate them. This works by increasing levels of the hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin is produced in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus and is secreted by the pituitary gland. Oxytocin stimulates the uterus to contract and begin labor. Oxytocin also increases the production of hormones called prostaglandins, which further increases contractions.
The synthetic version of oxytocin, Pitocin, is frequently administered to pregnant people to induce or help progress the labor process. The increase in oxytocin from nipple stimulation can cause contractions that may kick-start labor if the pregnant person’s body is prepared to give birth.
Efficacy of Nipple stimulation
Demirel et al.(2015) study found that nipple stimulation appeared to shorten the length of labor and decrease the instances of cesarean sections. The study involved 390 pregnant participants and divided participants into three groups:
Nipple stimulation
Uterine stimulation
No stimulation
Despite inconclusive evidence, many healthcare providers recommend it as an option for their clients who are full-term. A recent study (Hodgson and Latka, 2020) used 350 registered midwives in British Columbia and Ontario, Canada, and found that 96% of those surveyed had advised clients to use nipple stimulation as a way of releasing the hormone oxytocin, and 80% believed nipple stimulation to be effective. Ninety-two percent of the respondents named labor augmentation as their reason for suggesting nipple stimulation.
Likelihood of Success
One article by Heather Jones, (2022) provided this highlights the reasons medical workers recommend nipple stimulation especially when the woman gets to her time:
The cervix is favorable: Meaning that it is beginning to soften, thin, and open
The Bishop score is eight or higher: A tool used to predict how soon a person is likely to go into labor based on measures found during a pelvic examination
Braxton Hicks contractions: Practice contractions, not labor contractions
The baby “drops”: Moves down lower into the pelvic cavity
Show/bloody show: An increase in vaginal discharge, losing the mucus plug, sometimes brownish or pinkish
Natural nipple stimulation such as erotic nipple play (licking, sucking, fondling, etc.) can also stimulate the release of oxytocin. It’s also a nice way to connect with your partner and is generally safe for pregnant women. However, artificial methods such as using a breast pump and others are discouraged in pregnancy though some safety studies attached if performed at 40weeks of pregnancy.
Nipple sucking produces a sensational orgasm
A recent study (Tahir and Mastalgia, 2022) explained that a nipple orgasm may feel even more intense during mensuration. This is because the hormonal changes during menstruation can increase breast sensitivity and tenderness, which may heighten arousal. Additionally, when your nipples are stimulated, they shoot off sparks in the genital sensory cortex. This is the same area of the brain that’s aroused by vaginal or clitoral stimulation (Annamarya Scaccia, 2022). Due to the nature of the nipples, Emily A. Klein’s (2019) article suggests that the pleasure some people feel when having their nipples sucked is the same as that of direct genital stimulation — some people have even reported that they can have an orgasm just from having their nipples played with.
6 nipple-sucking tips
Just in case you are interested in incorporating nipple-sucking into your repertoire — or if you’d like to expand on your technique — there are many ways to get creative and promote greater pleasure for your partner and yourself according to the O. Team.
1.Be anatomically aware.
Nipples come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They can be big, small, dark, pale, puffy, flat, or protruding (sticking out). Some people have inverted nipples—instead of protruding, their nipples are tucked inside the breast, appearing “inside-out.”
It can be helpful to pay attention to your partner’s unique anatomy: Some people have highly sensitive nipples and like a very gentle touch, while others prefer more intense sensations.
Those who have had breast or chest surgery, such as breast reduction or mastectomy (removal of the breast), sometimes experience a change in nipple sensitivity/ Particularly those who have experienced a medical procedure involving their nipples, chest, or breasts, make sure to check in about what nipple sucking means to them and how it feels.
Some people who are lactating (breastfeeding) experience changes in the way they perceive their breasts and nipples, as well as the way that they feel about nipple-sucking in a sexual context. If your partner is lactating, take some time to explore both of your feelings around nipple play.
2. Communicate.
When building a mutually enjoyable relationship, communication is key. Before you experiment with nipple play, ask about your partner’s preferences and boundaries.
3. Set the mood.
Setting the mood, or creating a sexy and relaxing ambiance, can help to maximize pleasure. There are a variety of sensual elements that can heighten the mood, including dimmed lights or lit candles. You might also consider adding in some background music or wearing something that makes you feel confident. It can be a lot of fun to explore and experiment with the setting — though it often takes trial and error to optimize what feels best for you and your partner.
4. Experiment with intensity.
Switching up the intensity of nipple sucking can be a great way to discover what your partner likes, as well as keep things interesting. Start by sucking softly, then increase the level of suction or alternate between a firm and gentle. Keep in mind that what feels gentle to one person can be unbearably intense for someone else: Always check in with your partner to see whether what you’re doing feels good and whether they’d prefer you to back off or increase the intensity.
5. Use your tongue.
The tongue is perfectly built for bringing pleasure to your partner during nipple-sucking. You can make gentle circles around the areola with the tip of your tongue, use it to stimulate the nipple itself, or even lick the entire breast or pectoral area to increase anticipation. You can also play with the erect tip of the nipple with your tongue, circling or flicking it while you suck.
6.Change the temperature.
Just as variations in pressure can increase pleasurable sensations during nipple-sucking, changing the temperature can feel great. Try taking a sip of warm tea before taking your partner’s nipple into your mouth. Or, try popping an ice cube into your mouth to instantly harden your partner’s nipple and create a delightful shiver.
7. Tease with your teeth.
For some people, nipple-sucking feels even better when the teeth get (gently!) involved. Try softly raking your teeth from the base of the nipple to the tip. For those who prefer a little pain with their pleasure, nibbling and biting the nipples can feel amazing. Whenever you use your teeth, take great care to avoid biting too hard—and always ask for your partner’s feedback to make sure what you’re doing is more “Wow!” than “Ow!”
Nipple-sucking can be a great way to enhance sex, or a satisfying, intimate activity in its own right. Experiment with a variety of techniques to discover what feels best for you and your partner. If you’re new to nipple sucking (or even if you’re not) go slowly, check in often, and enjoy the experience.
The bottom line
From studies, I found that despite popular belief, stimulating your clitoris, vagina, or penis is not the only way to have an orgasm. Nipples are rich with a network of nerve endings, the tenderness of which varies from person to person and from day to day. Nipple play can also bring you to that big O. And there are so many ways you can stimulate your nipples to make that orgasm explosive. Experiment with techniques, find out what makes you feel good, and just have fun!
NB:
Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups. My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.
The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, Medical and science writer, President, of Nyarkotey College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT)/African Naturopathic Foundation. He is also an Honorary Professor, Vinnystia State Pedagogical University, Ukraine. E-mail: collegeofholisticmedicine@gmail.com. For more information, contact: Stephanie(PRO)on 0244433553
References
Tahir MT, Shamsudeen S. Mastalgia. [Updated 2022 Sep 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562195/
Demirel G, Guler H. The effect of uterine and nipple stimulation on induction with oxytocin and the labor process: uterine and nipple stimulation. Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing. 2015;12(5):273-280. doi:10.1111/wvn.12116
Chaudhry Z, Fischer J, Schaffir J. Women’s use of nonprescribed methods to induce labor: a brief report. Birth. 2011;38(2):168-171. doi:10.1111/j.1523-536X.2010.00465.x
Demirel G, Guler H. The effect of uterine and nipple stimulation on induction with oxytocin and the labor process: uterine and nipple stimulation. Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing. 2015;12(5):273-280. doi:10.1111/wvn.12116
Chaudhry Z, Fischer J, Schaffir J. Women’s use of nonprescribed methods to induce labor: a brief report. Birth. 2011;38(2):168-171. doi:10.1111/j.1523-536X.2010.00465.x
Heather Jones(2022) Can Nipple Stimulation Be Used to Induce Labor? https://www.verywellhealth.com/nipple-stimulation-5117006#citation-2
Source: myjoyonline.com| Prof. Raphael Nyarkotey Obu
In an interview with Ghana Montie on NEAT FM, Mr. Kwame Andy Appiah-Kubi stated that “absolutely nothing” will change their minds.
He said to host Akwasi Aboagye, “When he arrives to the parliament we will just walk out because we have decided that we cannot work with him [Ken Ofori-Atta].”
