TIG Post

Author: Chris Kodo

  • Eritrea ‘releases Christian prisoners on bail’

    The Eritrean government has released on bail more than 20 prisoners who had been in detention for years because of their faith, sources have told the BBC.

    The prisoners from Christian evangelical and Pentecostal denominations are among those being held in a prison outside the capital, Asmara.

    In Eritrea only four religious groups are officially recognised – Christian Orthodox, Catholic Church, Lutheran Church and Sunni Islam.

    Since 2002 all other religious groups have lacked the legal basis to practise their faiths publicly, including holding prayer meetings or weddings, according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom.

    US-based Hannibal Daniel, who campaigns for religious freedom, said people imprisoned for about 16 years were among those freed.

    He said their conditional release could be linked to the coronavirus pandemic.

    The Eritrean government has not officially commented on the reported release of the prisoners, but it has previously dismissed accusations of intolerance to religious freedom.

    Campaigners advocating for religious freedom say three Jehovah Witnesses have been in prison in the country for more than 25 years.

    The US State Department estimates that there are 1,200 to 3,000 prisoners of faith in Eritrea

    Source: bbc.com

  • Guinea’s top court clears Alpha Condé third term bid

    Guinea’s constitutional court, the highest in the West African country, has approved 82-year-old President Alpha Condé’s bid for a third term in next month’s election.

    The court also approved 11 other candidates, including the main opposition challenger Cellou Dalein Diallo.

    There have been months of protests against Mr Condé’s re-election bid after he pushed through a constitutional change in a referendum in March which allowed him to stand for a third term.

    At least 30 people are reported to have died from the protests.

    Mr Condé was first elected in 2010 and got re-elected in 2015.

    On Tuesday Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari had called on West African leaders to stick to their constitutional term limits – which he termed as a source of crisis and political tension in the region.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Official! Dreams FC announces the signing of goal machine Agyenim Boateng

    Dreams FC has announced the signing of highly-rated attacker Agyenim Boateng Mensah from Nzema Kotoko FC ahead of the upcoming season.

    The budding talent is joining the ‘Still Believe’ outfit on a four-year deal after his unveiling today.

    Mensah was outstanding in the Division One League last season with excellent performances.

    The youngster was the leading goalscorer in Zone Two before the league was terminated due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

    Karela United FC were also in the chase for the signature for the prolific attacker.

    He is expected to a formidable strike-partnership with Joseph Esso and Abel Manomey in the new Dreams FC attack for the 2020/2021 campaign.

    https://twitter.com/DreamsFootballC/status/1303978952399220736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1303978952399220736%7Ctwgr%5Eshare_3&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ghanaweb.com%2FGhanaHomePage%2FSportsArchive%2FOfficial-Dreams-FC-announces-the-signing-of-goal-machine-Agyenim-Boateng-1056214

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Hes a rough diamond De Bruyne showers praise on Jeremy Doku

    Belgium midfielder, Kevin De Bruyne has heaped praises on teenager Jeremy Doku as he describes the forward as a diamond in the rough.

    On Tuesday night, Jeremy Doku marked his full senior debut for the Red Devils when they played against Iceland in the Uefa Nations League.

    The Anderlecht teenage sensation put up a scintillating performance and finished with a good goal that put the icing on a cake to complete a 5-1 win for Belgium.

    The strike which came on the 80th minute saw Jeremy Doku latching onto a well-weighted through ball from Kevin De Bruyne before beating his marker to send a thumping effort into the back of the net.

    Sharing his thought on the performance of the 18-year old, De Bruyne has spoken highly of his compatriot.

    “He is nimble, fast and he can dribble. Of course he sometimes makes a mistake, but who doesn’t? He is a diamond in the rough”, the Manchester City star man told Het Laatste Nieuws.

    Doku remains linked with a transfer to Liverpool and a host of top clubs in Europe. It is however unclear if he will move with Anderlecht keen on keeping him for this season.

    Source: footballghana.com

  • Coronavirus: Active cases on the rise again

    After a steady drop in the active cases of coronavirus in Ghana, the situation has taken a bend again as more persons are getting infected while the recoveries slow.

    After dropping to 785 as of Monday, September 7, the active cases have risen since then.

    On Tuesday, 143 new cases and about 197 recoveries saw the active cases rise to 831.

    On Wednesday, the Disease Surveillance Department of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) announced 176 new cases.

    This took the total cumulative cases from 45,012 to 45,188.

    There were only 144 recoveries-cum-discharges, seeing another rise in the active cases, which are now 863.

    Out of these cases, 16 are in severe conditions while six are in critical conditions with half of them on ventilators.

    So far, a total of 449,688 tests have been conducted, pegging the positivity rate at 10 per cent.

    The Greater Accra Region continues to lead the regional breakdown with a cumulative total of 22,700. Out of that, 22,183 have recovered or been discharged.

    The Ashanti Region follows with 10,907 cases since the outbreak in March. There are currently 106 patients under care.

    So far, the North East, Savannah, Upper West and Upper East regions have no active cases. All patients have been discharged or recovered.

    Source: 3 News

  • Judge summons Kennedy Agyapong for calling him stupid

    Member of Parliament for Assin Central Constituency Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has been summoned by High Court judge Amos Wuntah Wuni for contempt.

    Ken Agyapong is said to have “scandalised” and “threatened” the judge and, by extension, the court in an ongoing land case.

    On Wednesday, September 2, the lawmaker had threatened to petition the Chief Justice over a judgement given without his knowledge.

    On a programme on Net 2 TV, Ken Agyapong called the judge “stupid” for delivering judgement when he was unaware of the case despite being the de jure owner of the land for 18 years.

    “You are a stupid judge. I will face you,” Ken Agyapong said on the programme, which was simulcast on Oman FM.

    “I am not Anas to take bribe from you,” he added in local language Twi.

    He stressed: “I will deal with you”.

    On Wednesday, the judge issued a warrant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP to appear on Monday, September 14 at 10:00am.

    He is expected to “show cause why he should not be severely punished for contempt, if the matters are proven against him to the satisfaction of the Court”.

    Source: 3 News

  • Fire destroys 12 luxury vehicles at Agric Kokode in Ashanti Region

    A dozen luxury vehicles have been burnt in a fire outbreak at Agric Kokode in Kumasi of the Ashanti Region.

    According to eyewitnesses, the fire started when some rubbish being burnt nearby extended to the fitting shop.

    The affected vehicles are salvaged cars being fixed of minor defects. There was no casualty.

    In an interview with Joy News, a car dealer who wanted to remain anonymous said he has lost vehicles to the tune of ¢270,000 to the fire.

    He noted that the incident is going to cost him dearly since he needs to invest more funds in his business to thrive.

    “Losing ¢270,000 is not easy, because I need to clear some cars at the port and I needed this money I have just lost to clear them, so now what I am going to do?” he said in tears.

    According to JoyNews correspondent Nana Yaw Gyimah, the Ghana Fire Service was eventually able to douse the fire after several hours of attempts.

    “This workshop sits in the middle of an industrial enclave so there was a possibility that it could spread to other areas. So the military, police and Fire Service were all on the ground to put out the raging fire,” he said.

    Preliminary investigations have commenced to find out the cause of the fire.

    Source: myjoyonline

  • Ghanaian man arrested for fatally shooting his wife in Orlando

    A Ghanaian, Sylvester Ofori has been arrested by the Orlando Police for allegedly shooting and killing his wife, Barbara Tommey.

    International portal, fox35orlando.com reported that Barbara, 27, was shot and killed outside of the Navy Federal Credit Union near the Mall at Millenia, Gardens Park Boulevard in Orlando, according to Police.

    Information is scanty but authorities,, according to the website say the victim who was an employee at the credit union was shot and killed near the front door of the bank by her husband, Sylvester Ofori, 35.

    The Navy Federal Credit Union released a statement on the shooting:

    “This morning, a team member was fatally injured during an act of violence outside our Millenia branch, by a man she knew, according to the police. Our thoughts are with our team member’s family. Our number one priority is keeping both our members and team members safe. We will ensure all team members at the branch are provided with the support they need during this time. Any further information can be provided by the Orlando Police Department.”

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Ghana police dismiss 28 personnel over misconduct

    The Ghana Police Service has dismissed 28 personnel for showing unprofessionalism.

    This was as a result of complaints lodged by the public, of which they were found culpable.

    The total of 181 cases of unprofessional conduct that was recorded, was from January to August 2020.

    The Director of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service, Superintendent Sheila Kessie Abayie-Buckman said some of the misconducts as insubordination, drunk whilst on duty and engaging in part-time business outside the Service without permission.

    Others were negligent, which resulted in a prisoner escaping from lawful custody, failure to make entry in official documents, misuse of firearm, and absent from duty without permission.

    Mrs Abayie-Buckman said the affected officers were from the ranks of Constable to Assistant Commissioner of Police that is; “Constable, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Superintendent, Chief Superintendent and Assistant Commissioner of Police”.

    During investigations, 151 of the cases reported were found to be partially true, and aside from the 28 officers who were dismissed, some had their ranks reduced, she said.

    Mrs Abayie-Buckman said in 2019, out of the 291 complaints made against police officers, 191 were proven guilty.

    She said the disciplinary actions were taken to maintain high standards of professionalism in the Service.

    Meanwhile, a number of personnel, including 43 from the Headquarters, were commended for exemplary conduct between January and August, 2020, she said.

    “The Police Administration is making efforts to educate the men and women on the need to exhibit professionalism at all times,” Mrs Abayie-Buckman said.

    “The Service will not shield any personnel who misconducts himself or herself in the course of duty to bring the name of the Service into disrepute.”

    She urged the public not to hesitate to bring to light the misconduct of any police personnel by reporting to the appropriate quarters adding that they must not only condemn the police when they miss the mark but also praise those that conducted their duties in a professional manner.

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • Bawumia hands over house to 82-year-old abandoned cured leper

    In an example of his love for humanity, the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has built, furnished and formally handed over a two-bedroom house to an 82 year old cured leper who had been abandoned by her family at Motori in the Wa West District of the Upper West Region.

    Dr Bawumia’s humanitarian gesture was inspired by a Joy News documentary which depicted the sorry plight of Daari Pogo, who was forced to live in a dilapidated 5 meters by 6 meter mud hut with her grand daughter Adjara after her abandonment.

    Touched by her appalling circumstances, Dr Bawumia immediately mobilised resources and within six weeks, built and furnished a two bedroom house for Madam Pogo [PICTURE OF NEW HOUSE BELOW].

    At a brief ceremony to formally hand over the building on Tuesday, September 8, 2020, Vice President Bawumia said the smiles on the faces of Daari Pogo and her grand daughter Adjara was enough to gladden anyone’s heart.

    “Today is a happy day, not just for me, but more especially my mother here Daari Pogo and our child Adjara. I am so so happy,” Dr Bawumia said.

    Daari Pogo, was forced to live in this dilapidated 5 meters by 6 meter mud hut with her grand daughter Adjara after her abandonment
    PICTURE: Daari Pogo, was forced to live in this dilapidated 5 meters by 6 meter mud hut with her grand daughter Adjara after her abandonment

    “As you know, I am a Patron of the Lepers Aid Society, which helps to rehabilitate cured lepers. When I saw the Joy News report by Seth Kwame Boateng I was deeply touched, and immediately reached out to help.

    “It appears as if she has been abandoned by her family due to her unfortunate affliction. But that is not how we should treat each other; we should be each other’s keeper.

    “Today I am here to formally hand over this house to madam Pogo, and assure her that we will continue to make sure she is well looked after. That is how we should treat each other. No one should be forced to live the way she was living.”

    Vice President Bawumia urged society to welcome and integrate cured lepers into their midst, as they no longer carried the disease.

    “We should not shun cured lepers. Science has clearly shown that they cannot pass the disease on. Let us welcome them, make them part of our every day lives and more importantly, show them love after contracting a disease through no fault of theirs,” he said.

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • NDCs promise to construct airport in Upper East backed by data Kwakye Ofosu

    The National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) manifesto spokesperson on infrastructure, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, says his party’s promise to construct a domestic airport in the Upper East Region is backed by data.

    Defending the viability of such a pledge on the Citi Breakfast Show, Kwakye Ofosu insisted that it was “not a knee-jerk approach.”

    “We know that all of the traffic in our airspace originates from Accra. So when you are going to Bolga and it takes you eight hours to get there by road and you can put an airport there that makes it possible for you to get there in an hour-and-a-half, it makes it [the airport] absolutely viable,” he said.

    The nearest airport is in Tamale in the Northern Region which is about two hours away from Bolgatanga.

    “Many people find that frustrating and others too find it time-wasting so there is every justification [for the promise],” Mr. Ofosu said.

    This promise by the NDC has been compared to the New Patriotic Party’s promise to construct an airport in the Central Region.

    But Mr. Ofosu insists that unlike the NDC, the NPP made this promise without any data.

    “Every decision you take must be based on empirical data so that you assess the viability of keeping an airport in Cape Coast bearing in mind there is one next door in Takoradi and also bearing in mind that there are plans to dualise the Accra Cape Coast road.”

    In other aviation interventions, the NDC plans to extend the runway of the Kumasi International Airport to accommodate bigger aircraft, fully operationalise the Kumasi and Tamale International Airports, upgrade the Takoradi and Sunyani airports, review the institutional and legal framework to ensure airport lands are reserved solely for aviation purposes and partner with the private sector to establish a national airline.

    Source: The Herald

  • NPP organises health walk in Tarkwa-Nsuaem

    On Sunday, August 6, 2020, over ten thousand party faithful of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) thronged to the principal streets of Tarkwa to participate in the “Agenda 80,000 votes-health walk” exercise by the Tarkwa-Nsuaem NPP.

    The walk which is to keep members fit and canvass for 80,000 votes in the 2020 elections also saw the achievements of George Mireku Duker, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area and president Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo once again reiterated through several media.

    The walk recorded the unprecedented massive turn-out in the political history of Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency by a single political leader.

    Most members and fascinated onlookers who spoke to the media amid cheers and jubilations expressed a deep satisfaction of the unprecedented achievements of George Mireku-Duker.

    Dignitaries that graced the walk included; Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, Western Region 2nd Vice Chairman, Ishmael Evonrah Kwame, Western Region Youth Organizer, Benedict Addae, Dr. Dominic Eduah Executive Secretary, GNPC Foundation, Jumah, CEO, Gihoc and Former KMA Mayor, Dr. Nuamah, MP, Kwadaso, George Aboagye MP, Asene Manso, Miss Anna Akasi Horma Miezah, WR NPP Treasurer, Vincent Assifuah, NPP parliamentary candidate for Tafo Pankrono among others.

    All dignitaries spoke in strong affirmation of the good works by the Member of Parliament in just 3 and half years and hence deserves “4more2domore.”

    Addressing the charging crowd, George Mireku-Duker took the opportunity to reiterate the good works of NPP in the constituency under his leadership and his vision for the next term.

    He called on the participants to rally behind him and President Akufo-Addo and vote massively for them come December 7 polls.

    He justified why the eligible voters should retain him by mentioning the following as achievements of his leadership and President Akufo-Addo; the construction of an Astroturf at Dompim, construction of Tarkwa and Aboso sports stadium, construction of Tarkwa town roads, construction of Tarkwa to Wassa Agona road, construction of CHPs compounds, construction of school buildings, awarding educational scholarships to some students to further their studies, giving apprenticeship training to some ladies among others.

    He promised to liaise with the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the area and other NPP appointees to develop the Tarkwa-Nsuaem.

    He commended the NPP Constituency Executives for the area for rallying behind him since January 7, 2017, and charged them to support him and President Akufo-Addo to retain power.

    Mr. Mireku-Duker further, thanked all dignitaries for making time to be part of such a historic event and urged all party faithful to step up the door-to-door campaign towards the delivery of the agenda 80,000 votes.

    George Mireku-Duker became MP for the area in 2017 January after winning the highest votes in the Western Region in the December 7, 2016 polls.

    Source: Daniel Kaku, Contributor

  • Suspected robber killed at Mpaha by running vehicle

    A suspected armed robber has been knocked down and killed by a running vehicle on the Mpaha road in the Central Gonja district of the Savannah Region.

    The incident happened at dawn on Tuesday while the vehicle, a Benz bus with registration number GR 4336 D was en route to Mpaha from Buipe.

    The deceased is believed to be among a gang of robbers that ambush vehicles and travellers who ply the route.

    This time, however, he met his untimely death while attempting an attack.

    The vehicle, with unspecific number of passengers was traveling from the Buipe market to Mpaha when the driver spotted two Fulani extraction hiding in the nearby bush.

    One of the armed robbers with a shotgun suddenly emerged from the bush and shot into the windscreen of the vehicle.

    The driver, who was bent on saving his life and that of his passengers run into one of them in an attempt to escape the shot, killing him instantly while the other armed fled into a nearby bush.

    Some of the passengers on board, however, sustained various degrees of injuries and were rushed to TTH for treatment.

    According to the Central Gonja police, one shotgun, 3 BB live cartridges and one spent cartridge were found in the deceased possession and has been retrieved.The accident vehicle has also been towed to Buipe police station.

    Meanwhile the body of the suspected robber has been conveyed to Tamale Teaching hospital mortuary.

    Source: myjoyonline

  • Neymar set to ditch Nike for Puma

    For the first time in his professional career Neymar will be seen without Nike boots on after he agreed a contract to become a Puma affiliated athlete, with the German corporation breaking the bank to recruit the former Santos prodigy.

    The money Neymar has earned from his affiliation with Nike will last him a lifetime, however the relationship he has held with them since he was 13 is no more.

    A leak has emerged that in recent years Nike had paid the Brazilian international 40 million euros per season, which shows the enormity of the investment Puma must have made to tempt him.

    As one of the most marketable footballers and well-known athletes outside of the immediate footballing sphere, Neymar is a huge coup for any brand, let alone Puma.

    In recent times Puma have moved even further into the sport, signing deals with Manchester City, AC Milan, Luis Suarez, Sergio Aguero, Cesc Fabregas and Marco Reus.

    Source: Marca

  • Police patrol team allegedly shoot civilian in mob attack at Akontombra, victim in critical condition

    The Akontombra Police patrol team has allegedly shot a civilian during a mob attack on them at Sefwi Asantekrom, a farming community in the Sefwi Akontombra district of the Western North Region.

    Confirming the incident to Adom News, the Regional Crime Officer, Nana Kwaku Duah (ASP) said due to the crime rate in the area police normally go on day and night patrols.

    He narrated that in the course of the patrol, two men were seen holding bags and were alerted to stop for a check. However, they refused and decided to run.

    This raised suspicion among the police who following them while running into the bush.

    Later, many other young men emerged from the bush to attack the four policemen.

    According to the crime officer, the police fired warning shots but the suspects were attempting to disarm one officer.

    This eventually led to the shooting of one of the group members in the hand.

    Bullet from the scene

    The victim, Ernest Arthur, 29, was rushed to Wiawso Government Hospital but has transferred to Okomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi for further treatment.

    Source: myjoyonline

  • Makafui Awuku: Water is not an important resource according to NDC and NPP manifestos

    We Have Chosen Minerals Over Clean Drinking Water. I have taken a close look at the Manifestos of the two major parties under natural resources both captured Land, Forestry and Mining.

    Both failed to capture our water resources which both governments have failed to protect even though millions of money has been spent on supposed projects to stop illegal mining.

    Both parties have shown that mining is more important than portable water that we drink.

    Looking at the failure of both governments to tackle the problem of water pollution especially in the Western Region which threatens the ability of the Ghana Water Company to supply clean water to communities, you can be sure that the brown, chemical infested waters will remain so for another 10 to 15 years.

    Should they have touched on the issue and provide a road map to making our waters clean again?

    Yes! They should have. Looking at the fact that the problem has cost the nation millions, cost the nation lives, cost the nation healthcare expenditures, as people are getting sick.

    It is also costing the nation a lot as corruption cases related to illegal mining and water pollution have been left and not dealt with, with the culprits walking free.

    Also missing is a proper developmental plan for mining communities from where mining resources emanate from. These communities have been left at the mercy of the mining companies with evidence showing that governments over the years have not had any proper developmental strategy to turn these mining communities into a proper model communities.

    Anyone from these two parties who disagree with me should take a look at the two manifestos and come and engage me in a conversation about the issues I have raised.

    I have to admit these two manifestos may arguably be the best the two parties have ever presented in the same election year, however, both parties have intentionally left out key issues especially in areas they know they have failed abysmally.

    Makafui Awuku is a social innovator and an environmentalist.

    Disclaimer : “Opinions expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of the author(s) and do not in any way reflect those of backend.theindependentghana.com. Our outfit will hereby not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article.”

  • Uganda food prices collapse in wake of pandemic

    Farmers in Uganda have produced a bumper harvest, but disruption of transport and reduced demand for their crops has led to a collapse in food prices.

    Agriculture continued throughout the coronavirus pandemic, but now farmers are being forced to sell their produce at almost giveaway prices, because shops and traders have cut the amount of food they are buying.

    It is common to see food dumped around marketplaces and farms in Uganda, as prices of fruit and vegetables are half what they were five months ago.

    Dr James Kanyije, the Chief Executive of KK Fresh Foods, which exports food to Europe, has told the BBC that the industry has been hit hard by rising costs and disruptions to transport.

    He is especially concerned about the high costs of sending food to Europe by air cargo.

    “The exports and prices of food have fallen due to high costs of flights into the European Union and the demand yield has been affected by late movement of products due to transport,” he said.

    He also reminded us about the impact of telling people to stay at home, as part of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.

    “In April it was almost 90 percent reduction due to total lockdown of all transport means.”

    Mr Kanyjie is also hopeful of recovery for exports of food when aviation is fully reopened, saying “it will only increase when the airports and all value chains are reinstated across the world.”

    Source: bbc.com

  • Mandela foundation hits back at Trump

    The Nelson Mandela foundation has hit back at remarks attributed to US President Donald Trump about anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela.

    The remarks are from a new book by Mr Trump’s former lawyer, Michael Cohen, which comes out on Tuesday.

    In the book, Mr Cohen claims Mr Trump made racist comments about Nelson Mandela.

    He claimed Mr Trump said the late South African president was “no leader”.

    “Tell me one country run by a black person that isn’t a shithole. They are all complete [expletive] toilets,” Mr Trump once said, according to Mr Cohen.

    The White House says the lawyer is lying.

    The Nelson Mandela Foundation has said it did not believe that “leaders who conduct themselves in the way Mr Trump does are in a position to offer authoritative commentary on the life and work of Madiba”.

    “Reflecting on leadership, Madiba once said: “A good leader can engage in a debate frankly and thoroughly, knowing that at the end he and the other side must be closer, and thus emerge stronger. You don’t have that idea when you are arrogant, superficial, and uninformed.” We would recommend these words to Mr Trump for consideration,” the foundation said in a statement.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Meet the first Nigerien scientist to work for NASA

    Fadji Maina has become the first scientist from Niger to work for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa).

    The 29-year-old hydrologist earned her PhD in 2016, and joined the world-famous space agency in the US at the end of last month.

    She told the BBC’s Focus on Africa programme she will use her new job to give back to her country and the continent:

    “I will say to them to not give up to keep going because everyone would think people from Niger, or a young girl from Niger, would not be able to do this. But just believe in yourself and find an environment that will support you,” she said.

    Ms Maina said she is the only African in Nasa.

    “You get used to it also I think we need to have more people coming from different backgrounds to be able to solve the problems that we are looking at – because different people will have different perspectives.”

    Source: bbc.com

  • Mali junta given a week to appoint civilian leader

    The military junta that ousted Mali’s president has been given until 15 September to appoint a civilian leader to lead the transition.

    Leaders from the West African bloc, Ecowas, said the proposed civilian president and prime minister would lead the country to a fresh election.

    The junta is yet to respond to the announcement made on Monday during a summit attended by eight heads of state in Niamey, the capital of Niger.

    Ecowas wants the transition to be done within a year, but the junta has in the past said it prefers “a reasonable time” and suggested at least two years.

    The military junta has been holding transition talks with political leaders.

    The ousted President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta flew to the United Arab Emirates for treatment over the weekend after a mini-stroke.

    He was detained by the junta and resigned on 18 August after months of mass protests.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Hearts of Oak to hijack Akaminko’s move to Kotoko

    Gordon Akaminko is on the verge of signing for Ghanaian Premier League giants Kumasi Asante Kotoko per sources close to the Kumasi based team.

    According to several sources, Asante Kotoko have made multiple enquiries about the striker and his brother James Akaminko who left Ashanti Gold SC weeks ago after his contract expired.

    Meanwhile, Accra Hearts of Oak are set to hijack the move from their bitter rivals as Hearts sees the striker as a possible replacement for Joseph Esso.

    The rainbow team is said to have also made multiple enquires about the availability of the striker over the past two weeks and willing to sign him from Division One league side Tema Youth.

    The young versatile forward joined Tema Youth in January 2020 after turning down a move to several Ghana Premier League teams from Hearts of Lions where he was the key forward-line for the Kpando based team.

    Akaminko was very influential for the harbour city lads in the 2019/2020 Division One League before the season was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic as he featuring in all games for the former Premier League side.

    Source: Stake Sottie, Contributor

  • Ghana records 92 new Covid-19 cases

    Ghana has recorded 92 new case of the novel coronavirus.

    According to the Ghana Health Service, 43,801 have recovered/discharged.

    This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 44,869.

    The number of active case in Ghana is currently 785 as the death toll stands at 283 as of September 7, 2020.

    Regional Breakdown

    Greater Accra Region  22,483; Ashanti Region  10,891; Western Region  2,960; Eastern Region  2,321; Central Region  1,878; Bono East Region  777; Volta Region  668; Western North Region  638; Northern Region  528; Ahafo Region  524; Bono Region  511; Upper East Region  282; Oti Region  237; Upper West Region  90; Savannah Region  62; North East Region  19

    Source: myjoyonline

  • Reopening schools for KG, primary students not harmful Child Rights International

    A non-governmental organisation, Child Rights International has called for the immediate reopening of schools.

    According to the NGO, the partial reopening of schools for Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School final year students has proven that it will be safer for students to be in school than stay at home.

    The Director of Child Rights International, Bright Appiah argued in an interview with Citi News that scientific data indicates that the presence of children in school will not pose a threat.

    “The analysis we have done so far shows that the school system will be safer for children than they being at home looking at the data of students who are allowed to go to school at the SHS level and Junior High level. If you pick the data for the SHS, over 270,000 plus students were in school and out of that we had less than 600 people getting COVID.

    “It means that with clear management and observation of the protocol, children can go to school and not be affected by the condition of the virus. Then again children are among the classes that show a low transmission of COVID. Their presence will not pose a threat to anyone.”

    All nursery, kindergarten, primary, Junior High School (JHS) 1 and Senior High School (SHS) 1 students have had the rest of their 2019/2020 academic year postponed till January 2021.

    This was announced by President Nana Akufo-Addo on Sunday, August 31, 2020 during his 16th COVID-19 update to Ghanaians.

    He said, per consultations with the Ghana Education Service (GES), the resumption of the next academic year in January 2021 will be made “with appropriate adjustments to the curriculum to ensure that nothing is lost from the previous year.”

    “The Ghana Education Service, after further consultations, has decided to postpone the remainder of the academic year for all nursery, kindergarten, primary, JHS 1 and SHS 1 students.”, Nana Addo disclosed.

    Schools in the country were shut down in March 2020 after Ghana recorded its first two cases of Coronavirus infection.

    Final year students were later allowed to return to schools to enable them to sit for their exit exams; the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for JHS students and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for SHS students.

    After five months of closure, however, many have called on the government to reopen the schools to make up for lost academic contact hours.

    In furtherance, the President also assured the “relevant dispositions will also be made so that the presence, at the same time, in the school of all streams of students, can occur in safety.”

    Source: citinewsroom

  • Election 2020: ‘A vote against Akufo-Addo is a vote against Ghana’s development’ – NPP Communicator

    A member of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team in the Western Region, Paul Attabiah Nyanzu popularly known on radio as Mankind has urged eligible voters to vote and retain the Akufo-Addo-led government come December 7 polls.

    According to the NPP outspoken Communicator, voting again for President Akufo-Addo will help the country’s development to move faster.

    In a press statement issued and signed on Monday, September 7, 2020 and copied to the media, Paul Attabiah Nyanzu commended President Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for chalking success in the sectors of the economy especially the railways sector.

    “The railways sector under the visionary leadership of his Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo is seeing an unprecedented rebirth. This development is accommodating ultra-modern trains that ensure relatively faster and safer movement”, he stated.

    He lauded the Akufo-Addo-led government for constructing a first Railways University at University of Maths and Technology (UMaT).

    “President Akufo-Addo has constructed Ghana’s first Railways University. It is now a second campus to UMAT”, he said.

    “For the first time, the Ahafo region will see railway lines after the completion of the 100 Km line from Kumasi to Bechem”, he added.

    He stated that, “For the first time, the Ahafo region will see railway lines after the completion of the 100 Km line from Kumasi to Bechem’.

    He is, therefore, urging Ghanaian eligible voters to against same incompetent, clueless John Mahama-led administration come December 7.

    “Fellow Ghanaians, we can not afford to trade these unprecedented developments in the railways sector and many other sectors for the incompetence, clueless, visionless, purposeless, directionless and emptiness we saw under the erstwhile administration”, he emphasized.

    “Let us extend the mandate of president Akufo-Addo, for leadership of service, to protect our progress and transform Ghana”, he concluded.

    Below is the full statement:

    A VOTE AGAINST NANA ADDO IS A VOTE AGAINST NZEMA AND GHANA DEVELOPMENTS

    I commend Nana Akufo-Addo on achievements: Railway sector reinvigoration

    The railways sector under the visionary leadership of his Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo is seeing an unprecedented rebirth. This development is accommodating ultra-modern trains that ensure relatively faster and safer movement. The three dimensional railways invigoration include the Western line, Central spine and Eastern line. These are some of the developments;

    President Akufo-Addo has constructed Ghana’s first Railways University. It is now a second campus to UMAT.

    The first Rail Viaduct (flyover) is steadily ongoing in Essiem in Western region.

    Ghana will for the first time, see trains pass over a river. The first 300m Rail bridge over Volta river in Igoli is under construction.

    Tema to Accra railway is now in operation under president Nana Addo.

    500 km line is being worked on from Aflao through Tema, Winneba, Cape Coast, Takoradi and Axim.

    107 km Takoradi to Huni Valley railway line is also being worked on.

    The 97.3km Tema to Mpakadam line is under construction.

    For the first time, the Ahafo region will see railway lines after the completion of the 100 Km line from Kumasi to Bechem.

    There is another contract of 340 km eastern line awarded. The line will be from Accra through koforidua to kumasi.

    Inspite of these massive and unparalleled developments in the railways, value for money is strictly and unfettered ensured. It is important to note that this rejuvenation of the railways sector is bringing significant contributions to the country. Some of these benefits are:

    Direct and indirect jobs are being created for the youth.

    Capacity building in terms of technology and engineering for the Ghanaian youth.

    It is facilitating faster and cheaper means of transport.

    Industrial parks are being developed to boost tourism and recreation.

    Reduction in the rate of rural urban drift in that, the communities along and around the railways is seeing revamps in economic activities. Pressure on social amenities and population density in the urban areas will be reduced.

    Value will be added to lands as a result of urbanisation.

    Trading and its peripheral activities will boost.

    Fellow Ghanaians, we can not afford to trade these unprecedented developments in the railways sector and many other sectors for the incompetence, clueless, visionless, purposeless, directionless and emptiness we saw under the erstwhile administration.

    Let us extend the mandate of president Akufo-Addo, for leadership of service, to protect our progress and transform Ghana.

    #4More4Nana
    #4MoreToDoMore

    Thank you!

    Long live Ghana!

    Long live Western Region!

    …….Signed……

    Paul Attabiah Nyanzu

    NPP Communication Member, Western Region

    Source: Daniel Kaku, Contributor

  • Churches urged to include persons with disability in church activities

    The National Co-ordinator of Ministry to Persons with Disabilities(PWDs) at the Church of Pentecost, Overseer Alexander Nyame has urged churches to include Persons With Disability ( PWDs ) in church activities.

    According to Overseer Alexander Nyame, PWDs, need the support of churches hence the aim of the Church of Pentecost is to help persons with disability to draw closer to God even though they are having physical challenges in their lives.

    Speaking to Peace FM Newsat a get together with persons with disability at the Church of Pentecost, Kwashieman Official Town Assembly(KOTA) in Accra, Overseer Alexander Nyame said, persons living with disability need the support of the church therefore the church should not leave such people when they need help.

    Deaconess Diana Oppong Kyeraa Adjei of Sarpeiman Pentecost Church and a retired teacher who led the Church of Pentecost to support 150 Persons with Disability also added that, the vision of the church is to support needy people and share the true gospel with them to help them live godly lives.

    Source: Peace FM

  • We transform lives of Zongo residents – Mustapha Hamid

    The Minister of Inner-Cities and Zongo Development, Mustapha Hamid has opined there has been a massive transformation in the Zongo landscape after the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) took over.

    The Ministry he said was established to correct the inequalities

    He suggested it will take a visionary leader like President Akufo-Addo to recognise that we need in the next generation to aggressively tackle the development challenges of these people in these communities in order that we shall breed the social inequalities that certain countries down the abyss.

    According to him, when the NPP established this ministry, the poohed-poohed it because they had taken zongo votes for granted.

    He said there are massive defections from the NDC to the NPP following what he termed as massive development in the zongo communities by the NPP because they recognise that what is important is their development and not propaganda.

    Dr. Hamid said the NDC is suffering from poverty of ideas to develop the zongo communities as done by the NPP.

    The residents of zongo he added are longer deceived by the NDC. They see the massive infrastructure development in their communities. They see the massive transformation, the water system, the health facilities being innovated.

    Per the view of the minister, for the first time, forty zongo youth are studying medicine in Cuba to come and be of benefit to their communities, adding the NDC only used residents of zongo communities as instruments of violence during campaigns.

    The introduction of the free senior high school he stated has helped in reducing the burden on mosques nationwide, where formally parents had to seek financial support to send their wards to schools.

    ”You see free SHS was not possible, we have done. Now you say when you come you will maintain it. You cancelled teacher training allowance, we restored it now you say you will maintain it. You cancelled nursing training allowance, we have brought it back now you say you will maintain it. You said zongo development fund was rubbish, we have instituted it, now you say you will maintain. In this election, we are not looking for a maintenance officer, we are looking for a transformative leader for our country.”

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • NPP will wake up to the shock of their lives in Ayawaso West Wuogon – NDC

    Deputy constituency youth organizer for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Theophilus Kojo Bedzra says the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) will be shocked come December 7, 2020.

    The NDC he has adopted a house to house campaign in the constituency and will win the 2020 general elections and have their parliamentary candidate John Dumelo declared as the winner of the polls.

    He said just like the late Mills used a door-door- to campaign to win the presidential seat, the NDC as a party is using this approach to campaign this year to repeat history.

    He indicated that “this year we are not leaving any stone unturned. We are touring the constituency, we are making sure we will enter every house and sell the message of candidate John Mahama and John Dumelo so the resideNts will vote massively for the NDC.”

    The 2020 polls he said is a rescue mission because the ruling NPP has destroyed this nation and sending it to the abyss.

    Ghanaian voters he noted must kick out the NPP if they want the economy to be stable and lives transformed.

    He refuted suggestions that the seat is a safe one for the governing party stressing, the votes for the NDC this year would be massive.

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • People of Osenase appeal for completion of E-Block

    The chiefs and people of Osenase and the surrounding communities had called for the completion of the E-Block started by the previous government to enable the area to have access to a secondary school.

    The people argued that despite the fact that the area is the second most populated area in the West Akyem Municipality with rising population, yet it lacked a secondary school.

    This came to light at a social auditing organized by the West Akyem Municipal Secretariat of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) at Osenase in the Eastern Region. The community also called for expansion of the existing water facility to meet the growing demand of the population, expansion of their lorry station and the reconstruction of their public toilet facility.

    The people questioned why over 80 per cent of the development projects implemented by the Municipal Assembly from 2017 to 2020 were concentrated in the Asamankese area. The West Akyem Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr Seth Oduro-Boadu, assured that the issues raised by the community would be addressed by the Municipal Assembly.

    He, however explained that the current policy of government is to encourage landlords to provide toilets in their houses.

    Ms Modesta Annie Sapaty, West Akyem Municipal Director of the NCCE, encouraged the chiefs and people of Osenase to demand accountability from duty bearers, since that is one of the surest ways of curbing corruption in public life.

    Ms Sapaty explained that social auditing also helped to promote community ownership of developmental projects and increased awareness of the people on operations of the local government in their area.

    She said the social auditing project was part of the Accountability, Rule of law and Anti-corruption Programme (ARAP), which sought to promote good governance in Ghana by reducing and improving accountability in compliance with the rule of law.

    Nana Agyenim Boateng, Kyiridomhene of Osenase who chaired the programme, expressed appreciation for the platform created for citizens to express their concerns in the presence of the duty bearers and urged the office holders to do well to address the concerns raised by the people.

    Source: GNA

  • MP demands presidential enquiry into Dome Faase military brutalities

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Domeabra Obom, Sophia Karen Ackuaku, has called on President Akufo-Addo, to launch a presidential enquiry into the Dome Faase military brutalities for culprits to be prosecuted and affected community dwellers compensated for their loss.

    The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentarian, who was in the thick of affairs that fateful Tuesday, wants the military to answer why it handed armed soldiers to a man with a serious questionable character including serving a jail term, ending in the death of one man and injuring of two soldiers.

    “…His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo should cause an investigation into the circumstances under which the military command deployed armed military men to a man who has turned out to be a criminal and an imposter to harass the people of Dome Faase”, she has said. She believes the enquiry, will allay fear of the traumatized people that, Barfour Sarpong Kumankuma, the man behind the recorded atrocities, will not be made to face the law as amember of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) having secured a job with the Forestry Commission (FC).

    Additional information published by The Herald last week, indicate that, Barfour Sarpong Kumankuma did not act alone as credible information picked up shows he apparently works for Thomas Oppong Peprah; the Army Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces’ (GAF).

    The notorious former National Security operative and ex-military officer, who was jailed in the UK for six years, goes about seizing land for a so called estate agency business and recruits young men in land guarding activities.

    It is emerging that though his criminal activities are known by the military, he has not been called to order, because he has the full backing of Mr Oppong Peprah.Madam Ackuaku said, the people of Dome Faase, anticipate nothing short of thorough prosecution and compensation for the affected community members.

    “Many are worried that Barfour Sarpong may escape punishment because he is an appointee of this government at the Forestry Commission and moved around in a vehicle with New Patriotic Party (NPP) flag hanged in it and the late Sir John’s poster on it.This should not be one of the many cases in which operatives of the NPP have been shielded and made to go unpunished because their Party is in power.

    The chiefs and good people of Domeabra Obom constituency, particularly those whose properties were destroyed, those who were beaten and injured, those who were unjustifiably arrested and tortured, and those who had to endure the inconvenience of fleeing their homes, expect nothing but arrest, prosecution and compensation for their anguish”.

    She blamed the security agencies whose attention was drawn earlier through a petition to the President saying “If the State had responded to the countless petitions about the conduct of Barfour Sarpong, we would not have recorded the unfortunate incident at Dome Faase”.Her plea contained in a statement last Wednesday,was in reaction to a similar statement by the Okyenhene calling on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) James Oppong Boanuh, to arrest and prosecute Bafour Sarpong Kumankuma, after the latter claimed in a television interview that, his actions at Dome Faase, were backed by the Akyem Abuakwa stool, adding he was only collecting and policing the Dome Faase lands for the Okyenhene.

    The ex-Military officer, claimed he and others, act at the whims and caprices of Okyehene. “We are his people, we are only his police who guard his lands, and serve as his labourers”, he revealed.But in a swift response, the Okyehene debunked the various claims made in his name, saying the man in question was not even the Mponuahene of Akyem Apedwa. The statement signed by Secretary of the Akyem Abuakwa State, Dan Ofori Atta, listed a number of criminal activities Bafour Sarpong Kumankuma, has been implicated in. He was also accused of disrespecting the Stool as several summons by it Council to answer certain questions, were never honoured.

    “We wish to state unequivocally, that Bafour Sarpong Kumankuma, is not the Mponuahene of AkyemA buakwa. He is not recognized and accepted as a Chief or a holder of any traditional authority in Akyem Abuakwa.

    “He acted as land guard in furtherance of his illicit and criminal profession related to unlawful sand winning, unauthorized sale of lands and violation of the order and enforcement of the public policy which has been his hall mark.

    He has time without number disrespected summons to appear before the Kyebi Executive Council to answer queries regarding his nefarious activities,” according to the statement from the AkyemAbuakwa State”.

    Welcoming Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin clarification as “soothing”, the MP said it was a step in the right direction for the revered chief to set the record straight and demandthe investigation and prosecution of Bafour Sarpong Kumankuma who until recently pride himself as a chief.”For the purposes of emphasis, the IGP should immediately arrests Barfour Sarpong as instructed by the Okyehene and ensure he face the law squarely”, she added her voice to the call.She was worried about the damage the action of the armed soldiers and the disputed chief saying “Beyond the physical destruction of properties, the psychological effects of the military’s action flowing from Barfour Sarpong’s conduct, is dire”.

    She had words for her accusers who in the heat of the incident, blamed her saying “The political entrepreneurs who, instead of calling their Party’s inspired imposter, Barfour Sarpong, to order, but failed to do so, and rather went on a wild goose’s chase, castigating me for siding with the Chiefs to confront the imposter, must now bury their heads in shame for pushing their Party’s agenda other than helping the chiefs and youth fight for what belongs to the Ga State.

    Aside the assault on NIA officials, teachers and other innocent people, the unfortunate development has created a panicky situation in the Constituency. Constituents have been left traumatized and the children, particularly BECE candidates are struggling to get over the emotional torture they were put through”.

    The MP reiterated her call to the community members who fled the area during the incident to return as calm has been restored.

    “I am urging all those who fled their homes to return as calm has been restored. Their safety is assured and they can go about their normal business without hindrance and/or harassment from any person or group of persons.

    I extend a hand of gratitude to all those who showed interest in this unneeded spectacle and stood with the people of Domeabra Obom to draw down the curtains.

    Source: The Herald

  • Ghanaian defender Abdul Mumin eager to meet Vitória Guimaraes fans

    Ghanaian defender Abdul Mumin Suleiman is keen on meeting fans of new club Vitória de Guimarães. 

    The 22-year-old, who joined the Portuguese side from Danish side FC Nordsjaelland in the summer transfer window, is yet to meet fans of the club following the Coronavirus restrictions.

    “We are playing without fans, but we hope that when the season starts, we will be able to play with fans. I look forward to meeting them. I haven’t had a chance to see them yet, but I’ve seen videos of the fans and the energy is crazy. I can’t wait to experience that,” he told the club’s website.

    Abdul Mumin made his debut for the Vitoria Guimaraes in their preseason friendly victory over Academic de Viseu last Friday.

    The highly rated defender insists that the team is preparing to fight for laurels next season.

    “I think the most important thing is to create a culture of high demands on the players, to take all training very seriously, to give our best and then to focus on one step at a time. The most important thing is to win each game, all the ends in the championship, that’s our goal,” he said.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Work to commence on Gh¢27 million Nkawkaw multi-complex sports stadium

    Isaac Asiamah, Minister for Youth and Sports has cut sod to begin reconstruction of the Nkawkaw Sports Stadium into a multi-complex sports facility.

    The project is estimated at a cost of Ghc27 million cedis and is being sponsored by the Middle Belt Development Authority as part of the one million per constituency project.

    Expected to be completed in two years, the stadium complex would consist of close to 10,000 seater capacity, a standard FIFA pitch with the capacity to host international football matches.

    Other ancillary facilities would include eight-lane tartan tracks, a gym center, restaurant, the multipurpose court for tennis, and a hostel facility to house sportsmen and women of about 20 sporting disciplines.

    The Minister said since the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government took over power, most of the sporting facilities in the country were in a bad state and neglected.

    He noted that the government was determined to promote sports across the country and therefore instituted measures to renovate the Accra Sports Stadium, which is in good shape now to host sporting events.

    Mr. Asiamah mentioned that renovation works were ongoing at the Essipong and the Kumasi sports stadiums, whiles that of Tamale would begin soon.

    Others including Secondi, Gyedu, Saltpond, Bekwai, Konongo, Tarkwa, Mampong, Berekum, Kaladan, Techiman, Oda, Sunyani coronation, and Wa Malik Kabir parks would also be given a facelift

    He disclosed that 10 multipurpose resource centres were being constructed across all regional capitals in the country to boost sporting infrastructure

    Mr. Joe Danquah, Chief Executive Officer of the Middle Belt Development Authority, said his outfit had constructed 10 standard Astroturf pitches in the Eastern Region at a cost of Ghc22.1 million, whiles five others were also under construction.

    Prof. Peter Twumasi, Chief Executive of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Prof. Peter Twumasi said plans were advanced to build or reconstruct in all parts of the country to harness the talents of sports in people in all parts of the country.

    He commended the government for renovating and reconstructing sporting infrastructure in the country to serve to improve sports in the country.

    Source: GNA

  • French giants Olympique Lyon track Arsenal target Myron Boadu

    French giant Olympique Lyon is looking to sign AZ Alkmaar striker Myron Boadu.

    The 19-year-old is being sought after as a potential replacement for Moussa Dembele, according to a report by Foot Mercato. 

    The Ghanaian enjoyed a terrific campaign in the Eredivisie last season where he scored 18 goals and provided eight assists last season.

    With Lyon facing a uncertain future with Dembele, the French powerhouse want to move quickly by tying a deal for the talented youngster.

    Arsenal, believed to be interested in the striker, will now have to fend off competition from Lyon for the signature of the in-demand attacker.

    Boadu has three more years left on his current deal but remains to be seen if AZ can hold onto him amid widespread interest from several stellar clubs.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Owusu Dacosta signs three-year contract extension to stay at Medeama

    Medeama SC goalkeeper, Owusu Dacosta, has signed a three-year contract extension to stay with the Ghana Premier League side until 2023, the club has announced.

    The former Ghana Under-17 glovesman has committed his future to the two-time FA Cup holders.

    Dacosta joined the Mauve and Yellows in 2017 from second-tier Asokwa Deportivo.

    He  has largely been used as a back-up for Eric Ofori Antwi but now gets his chance to stake a claim for regular role.

    He is expected to continue with his development after signing the new deal.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Hearts of Oak has sent a counter-offer to Qatari side Al-Sailiya for Kofi Kordzi’s transfer – Opare Addo

    Accra Hearts of Oak Communication Director, Kwame Opare Addo has debunked reports in the media that the club has turned down an offer of $200,000 from Qatari top-flight side Al-Sailiya for the striker Kofi Kordzi.

    According to sources, the Phobians have already rejected three offers from the Doha-based outfit.

    Kwame Opare Addo in an interview confirmed that Qatari club has confirmed interest in the player but added that negotiations are ongoing between the two parties over his release.

    He explained that Accra Hearts of Oak is willing to release the player if a good deal is struck between both sides.

    Opare Addo also quashed reports in the media that the team has rejected offers made by the club to sign the bulky striker.

    “We have not rejected the offer as been reported in the media. We have only sent a counteroffer to the team and waiting for their response”, he said in an interview on Asempa FM.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Birmingham stabbings: Police declare ‘major incident’ as several injured

    A number of people have been stabbed in Birmingham city centre and police have since declared a “major incident”.

    West Midlands Police said they were called to reports of a stabbing at around 00:30 BST on Sunday.

    A number of other stabbings were reported in the area shortly after and officers said a number of people had been injured.

    A “major incident” describes any situation involving serious harm or a security risk to the public.

    It also means special arrangements are in place for all of the emergency services to work together now.

    Witness Cara, who was working in the area at the time as a club promoter, told the BBC it had been busier during the evening than it had been at any time since the start of lockdown.

    ‘People having fist fights’

    She said she had finished her shift at about 00:30 BST and was drinking with colleagues when she heard a “loud bang and quite a lot of commotion”.

    She added: “I found multiple people having fist fights… people from inside pubs and clubs came out and started to see what was going on.

    “There were females, males, old people, young people, such a mix of people, didn’t seem real at the time.

    “Working on the club scene for over two years, I’ve always seen quite a lot of fights but it was nothing like tonight. The body language and demeanour was quite different.”

    The force said: “We are aware of a number of injured people, but at the moment we are not in a position to say how many or how serious.”

    It said emergency services were working together at the scene, and making sure that those who were injured received medical care.

    Remain ‘calm but vigilant’

    The West Midlands Police statement continued: “Work is still going on to establish what has happened, and could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything.

    “At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident.

    “The emergency services have well-rehearsed plans for dealing with major incidents. Our response is ongoing in Birmingham city centre and will be for some time. Cordons are in place, and there are some road closures.”

    People are being asked to remain calm but vigilant, and to stay away from the area.

    The police cordon is near the area known as the Gay Village in the centre of Birmingham, the BBC’s Simon Jones said.

    Many people had been seated at outdoor tables eating and drinking on Saturday evening.

    The streets in the area had already been closed to traffic due to coronavirus restrictions.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Dozens trapped at California reservoir

    A major rescue operation is taking place in California after a wildfire trapped people at a popular reservoir.

    Helicopters have brought out dozens of people so far from around the Mammoth Pool Reservoir, about 40 miles (60km) north-east of Fresno.

    Rescuers are returning for others and say the number trapped is unknown. So far two people are seriously injured and 10 more have moderate injuries.

    The fast-moving Creek Fire started at about 18:45 on Friday.

    It grew to cover about 5,000 acres of the Sierra National Forest – an area of steep and rugged terrain – by Saturday afternoon, the LA Times reported.

    A tweet from the Fresno County Fire Protection District just before midnight local time (0700 BST) said 63 people had been rescued by military helicopter and taken to Fresno Yosemite International Airport.

    It read: “Aircraft are returning to continue rescue operations, Unknown how many more.”

    The rescue comes as some areas of California are experiencing a record heatwave.

    Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday declared a state of emergency amid warnings that power cuts could be implemented on a rotating basis to meet excessive demand.

    Temperatures of up to 49C (125F) are expected to last through the Labor Day holiday weekend.

    The National Weather Service (NWS) said there could be “rare, dangerous and very possibly fatal” temperatures across parts of southern California.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Lake Travis: Several boats sink at pro-Trump parade in Texas

    Several boats have sunk on a lake in the US state of Texas during a parade to support President Donald Trump in November’s election, officials say.

    Authorities say the choppy water was likely caused by the large number of vessels moving closely together on Lake Travis, near the state capital, Austin.

    Images showed boats with Trump campaign flags manoeuvring at close quarters.

    Media say people had to be rescued from the water, but there were no immediate reports of injuries.

    The event, called Lake Travis Trump Boat Parade, was organised on Facebook, and more than 2,600 people marked themselves as having attended it.

    An investigation has been launched and there is no evidence of any intentional act, Travis County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Kristen Dark said.

    “We responded to multiple calls of boats in distress, several of them sank,” she said. “We had an exceptional number of boats on the lake today… When they all started moving at the same time, it generated significant waves.”

    The incident happened around 12:00 (17:00 GMT) on Saturday, Labor Day weekend in the US. The event page said boats were asked to drive at 10mph (16km/h).

    Paul Yura, from the National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio, told the Associated Press that there were no storms in the area at the time of the parade.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Brexit: Negotiator David Frost says UK not scared of walking away

    The UK’s chief Brexit negotiator has said the government is not “scared” of walking away from talks without a trade deal ready to come into force in 2021.

    David Frost told the Mail on Sunday the UK would leave the transition arrangement – which sees it follow many EU rules – “come what may” in December.

    In contrast, he said Theresa May’s team had “blinked and had its bluff called”.

    EU negotiator Michel Barnier has said he is “worried and disappointed” about a lack of concessions from the UK.

    He was speaking after informal talks between the pair failed to find a breakthrough.

    An eighth round of formal negotiations begins on Tuesday.

    Both sides want a deal agreed next month in order to have it signed off by politicians on both sides of the Channel by the end of the transition period on 31 December.

    Differences remain on issues such as fishing and the level of taxpayer support the UK will be able to provide for businesses, also referred to as state aid rules.

    Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the week ahead was “a wake up call for the EU” adding “the EU’s best moment to strike a deal is now.”

    Speaking to the BBC’s Andrew Marr programme, he said the questions of fishing and state aid were “the only two points holding us back”.

    On fishing, he accused the EU of wanting to keep UK access to its fishing waters “permanently low”. He also said providing state aid is “an absolute critical element of policy making” which UK political representatives should have control over.

    The EU has said it wants full access for its boats to fish in UK waters in return for giving the UK fishing industry full access to EU markets.

    On state aid, the EU has expressed concern that it could give business in the UK an unfair advantage over their European competitors and Mr Barnier has previously said the EU will require “robust” guarantees in this area if it is to agree a deal.

    Lord Frost told the newspaper: “A lot of what we are trying to do this year is to get them to realise that we mean what we say and they should take our position seriously.”

    Source: bbc.com

  • ‘Rainfall of three months’ hits Senegal in a day

    Senegal’s President Macky Sall has launched an emergency aid plan after a seven-hour downpour caused widespread flooding.

    The water minister said there had been more rain in a single day than the total amount that usually falls during the three-month rainy season.

    There has been widespread damage and most parts of the country are flooded.

    One person is missing in the central region of Kaolack.

    Dozens have been killed and thousands displaced during a week of heavy rains across West Africa’s Sahel region.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Libya’s rival administrations meet in Morocco for talks

    Delegates of Libya’s rival administrations have met for talks in Morocco two weeks after the two sides declared a ceasefire.

    Five delegates each met from the UN- recognised government in Tripoli and the rival parliament based in the eastern city of Tobruk.

    Moroccan Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, while opening the meeting in the town of Bouznika, said that Morocco had no specific agenda but wanted to give Libyans a chance to discuss the issues dividing them.

    Morocco hosted talks in 2015 that led to the creation of the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Ugandan minister to appear in court over shooting

    Uganda’s Labour Minister, Mwesigwa Rukutana, is expected to appear in court on Monday after he was arrested over the weekend over a shooting incident.

    The minister allegedly shot at his opponent’s supporters after he lost the primaries of the ruling party National Resistance Movement (NRM).

    One supporter was seriously injured and two others sustained major injuries, according to local media reports.

    Mr Rukutana has denied shooting at his opponent’s supporters.

    Local media quote eyewitnesses as saying that the minister seized the gun from one of his bodyguards and shot at the supporters.

    The minister was arrested alongside three of his bodyguards.

    They will be charged with attempted murder, according to deputy police spokesperson Polly Namaye.

    A video of the moment the minister brandished the gun was posted online:

    https://twitter.com/qataharraymond/status/1302152557075165189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1302152557075165189%7Ctwgr%5Eshare_3&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ghanaweb.com%2FGhanaHomePage%2Fafrica%2FUgandan-minister-to-appear-in-court-over-shooting-1053196

    Source: bbc.com

  • Patrick Twumasi delighted with Hannover 96 debut

    Ghana forward Patrick Twumasi is delighted with his debut game for new side Hannover 96 over the weekend. 

    The former Deportivo Alaves midfielder had a brief spell in the game for Hannover 96 against Werder Bremen.

    The Ghana star featured the game just a day after completing his transfer to the Club from Spanish side Deportivo Alaves.

    Twumasi was introduced very late in the game and enjoyed the final 5minutes.

    “First of many minutes yet to be played, all thanks to God.. First game done the hardwork never stops”, the 26-year old said in a statement on his official handle.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • CAF reacts to missing original Afcon trophy in Egypt

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is shocked after learning of the missing original Africa Cup of Nations trophy in Egypt.

    “CAF has learnt with shock reports of missing AFCON trophies from the Egyptian Football Association secretariat. Our doors are open and the EFA can count on our support in the search for the priceless memorabilia,” CAF wrote on Twitter, Sunday.

    Reports of the missing trophy broke on Friday with the Egyptian FA confirming by launching an investigation.

    The trophy disappeared from the Egyptian football association headquarters in Cairo. The Afcon trophy is among several trophies missing from the headquarters.

    The missing trophy is the one Egypt earned for keeps after winning the competition three times in a row between 2006 and 2010.

    “As the Egyptian FA is currently developing the main headquarters, including changing the entrance to a small museum of Egyptian football, the management was shocked by the disappearance of some old trophies from the storeroom,” said the EFA in a statement.

    “The EFA is now investigating the trophies’ disappearance to determine if those old trophies were saved after the building was burned … or if they were lost when the building was exposed during this incident,” the EFA added.

    Ghana was the first team to win the trophy three times, in 1978, while Cameroon then received the second version of the Nations Cup trophy after becoming the first country to win it on three occasions.

    Under Caf rules, teams that win the Nations Cup receive a replica of the trophy on a permanent basis while they are allowed to keep the trophy for the two years in-between tournaments before handing it back.

    The current trophy, whose style is still the same as the one won by Egypt, is in the hands of Algeria, who won the last Nations Cup title (in Cairo) last year.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Hearts of Oak reject three offers from Al-Sailiya for striker Kofi Kordzi; want US$ 200,000

    Hearts of Oak are demanding US$ 200,000 from Qatari top-flight side Al-Sailiya before releasing for striker Kofi Kordzi.

    The Phobians have already rejected three offers from the Doha-based outfit who are coached by ex-Tunisia defender Sami Trabelsi.

    Kordzi has come on in leaps and bounds since joining the former African champions on a three-year deal in 2019 from Royal FC.

    During the suspended 2019/20 season, the burly striker had scored six goals in 14 league matches.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Chadwick Boseman’s hometown working on statue to honour him

    Chadwick Boseman’s hometown is already hard at work on a statue that’ll pay tribute to the “Black Panther” star … but those who want it to replace a Confederate memorial shouldn’t hold their breath.

    A spokesperson for Mayor Terence Roberts’ Office in Anderson, SC tells TMZ … the city is enthusiastically working on a permanent public tribute to honour the late actor.

    We’re told the City has already contacted an artist and they’re brainstorming ideas on how best to honour the hometown hero who played legendary roles. We’re told the statue will include a mix of sculpture with mural and/or art elements.

    The spokesperson conceded they don’t have plans nailed down but he assured us it’ll be suitable for a king. We’re told the Mayor’s office wants public input, to ensure it does the entire city proud.

    A Change.org petition is gaining steam … after calling for a Chadwick Boseman statue to replace a Confederate memorial currently in front of the city’s courthouse. Thing is … that’s not the Mayor’s call, because removal of a Confederate monument requires a two-thirds vote from the state legislature.

    But, what can move forward … a fitting tribute in the late star’s hometown. As we reported … Chadwick’s sudden death shocked the world following a 4-year, very private battle with colon cancer.

    #WakandaForever

    Source: TMZ

  • Osman Bukari completes transfer to Belgian giants KAA Gent

    Black Meteors winger, Osman Bukari, has completed a move to Belgian Pro League club, KAA Gent, from Slovakian side, AS Trencin.

    He put pen to paper on a three-year deal.

    The 21-year-old sealed the move after passing a mandatory medical test on Friday.

    The Ghana U23 international was among the best players in the Slovak Super Liga last season after winning eight Man-of-the-Match awards in the league.

    He played twenty-five matches and scored ten goals for the club last season in the Slovakian league.

    In sixty-six matches in all competitions for Trencin since 2018, the former Anderlecht reserves player scored sixteen goals.

    Osman Bukari joined the Slovakian club from Ghana Division One side Accra Lions in 2018.

  • My credibility in keeping my promises is without doubt – Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo has stated that he was committed to making Ghana work hence his resolve to contest the elections three times before winning.

    He said he had a vision and that was why in his first state of the nation address, he said he was a man in a hurry.

    Speaking on Oman Fm, the President indicated that he knew four years was not far away from him so he was in a hurry to develop Ghana despite the mess he inherited.

    In his view, Ghana was in a serious economic crisis and that was why former President Mahama lost the 2016 polls because Ghanaians lost trust in his leadership qualities and ability to manage Ghana better.

    According to him, he has been able to contain the crisis and put the economy in a quicker recovery.

    To his critics who doubted his promises especially the free senior high school, he said they told Ghanaians I was deceiving them but Ghanaians have realized that I have the credibility to keep my promises.

    “People taught I was being deceptive when I made the promises but Ghanaians have realized that my promises were not just mere promises but promises that have been fulfilled.”

    He went on to state that after he took over office, poor roads was a major concern everywhere he went and made him question the claims by the NDC that they invested heavily in road infrastructure.

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • House Party destroyed in a fire incident at Penyi

    A four bedroom house, belonging to a medical doctor has been saved from a complete destruction after it was engulfed in flame.

    This unfortunate incident happened in the afternoon of Thursday, September 3, 2020 at Penyi, a town in the Ketu North Municipality of the Volta Region.

    The timely intervention by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in the municipality brought the fire under control after it was battled for at least 25 minutes.

    Speaking to GhanaWeb’s Correspondent on Friday, September 4, 2020, Courage, a son of the property owner indicated that they could not figure out what actually caused the fire.

    Courage further revealed that the damages caused by the fire will amount to a cost of about GHS 15,000.

    “At least GHS 15,000 because some were in there, including the roofing and other things,” he said.

    He also revealed that some documents got burnt. He added that he could not immediately tell which documents were affected as they are yet to sort the documents out.

    Other things that got damaged are roofing sheets, the ceiling, doors, windows as well as personal belongings in the room.

    However, the GNFS in the municipality said they have begun investigations into the incident.

    A personnel who refused to give his name and also speak on camera indicated to the correspondent that they [fire personnel] could not say much about the incident because the outcome of the investigation is not yet in.

    “As at now we can’t tell you anything. As you know the thing happenout.ust yesterday so we can’t tell you right now what caused the fire. But you can come next week to see if we are done with the investigation,” the fire personnel said.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Bono Region records first coronavirus death

    The Bono region has recorded its first fatality since the outbreak of the novel Coronavirus in the region.

    The deceased is a 55-year-old man who first reported at the Wenchi Methodist Hospital with COVID-19 symptoms.

    The man was later transferred to the Techiman Hospital for further treatment but unfortunately, he passed on there.

    The Deputy Director of Public Health for the Ghana Health Service in the Bono region, Dr. John Ekow Otoo, made the disclosure in an update on COVID-19 in the region.

    Dr. Otoo tells GhanWeb that the deceased had underlying conditions hypertension, heart disease, and kidney failure which worsened his condition leading to his death.

    “We have a total of 511 cases as of Thursday, September 3, but unfortunately one person has passed on. The deceased is an elderly man who was suffering from chronic diseases like hypertension, heart disease, and kidney failure.

    “We diagnose him at Wenchi, but due to his condition, we later transferred him to Techiman. We suspected him of having COVID-19 in addition to the chronic diseases he had. He died even before the test results came.”

    Dr. Otoo decried a general decline in the adherence to the COVID-19 protocols in most public places in the region and appealed to residents to continue to adhere to the safety protocols as outlined by the Ghana Health Service.

    He revealed that they have since outlined a series of education geared towards intensifying public awareness on COVID-19 safety protocols.

    “We have noted a general decline in the adherence to the COVID-19 protocols and we are working with all stakeholders to encourage compliance”.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Government pays GHC1m into Human Trafficking Fund to tackle menace

    Government has released GHc1 million to the Human Trafficking Fund to help combat the menace of human trafficking in the country.

    Ghana has rescued, supported and given care to 611 human trafficking victims since 2019, out of which 200 were children and 411 adults.

    Government has also provided shelter for victims of human trafficking and facilitated processes for reunion with their families.

    Human trafficking is the act of recruitment, transportation, trading or receipt of a person within and across national borders for the purposes of exploitation.

    Currently, Ghana is on Tier Two of the Human Trafficking Rankings. Tier Two countries are those whose governments do not fully comply with the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) 2000 minimum standards, but are making significant efforts to bring themselves into compliance with those standards.

    Addressing the media at the Meet-the-Press series in Accra, Cynthia Maamle Morrison, Gender, Children and Social Protection Minister, said the Ministry, over the past three and half years, had organised community sensitisation and dialogues to create awareness on human trafficking and irregular migration.

    The Ministry has held durbars in traditional areas where 75 traditional leaders pledged their support to combat the menace.

    On support to the poor and vulnerable, Mrs Morrison announced that a total of 1,451,656 extremely poor households were registered on the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme and GHc334, 084, over five cycles of cash grants had been paid to them.

    In addition 73 percent of the LEAP beneficiaries have registered onto the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), with 5,522 individuals linked to productive socio-economic activities.

    Source: goldstreetbusiness.com