Hopes have been dashed an experimental vaccine could protect people against HIV, the virus that causes Aids.
The National Institutes of Health has stopped its HVTN 702 trial, of more than 5,000 people in South Africa, as it found the jab did not prevent HIV.
Experts expressed “deep disappointment” but added the search for a preventive HIV vaccine must continue.
Such vaccines do not contain HIV and therefore do not pose any danger of giving HIV to an individual.
Source:Â bbc.com
Black Stars coach Charles Kwabla Akonnor has held talks with Crystal Palace player Jeffrey Schlupp as part of his European tour.
Akonnor met with Schlupp on Monday, a day after meeting Ayew brothers.
The 45-year-old is on a European tour to hold discussions with current players and potential new additions to the Black Stars, having assumed duty as new head coach last month.
Following this meeting, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Schlupp makes a return to the senior national team.
The 27-year-old has been absent from national duty since March 2019 when he featured in an international friendly against Mauritania in Accra.
Schlupp has 14 caps for the Blak Stars since his debut in 2014.
Akonnor replaced James Kwasi Appiah, whose contract expired at the end of 2019.
His first match as Black Stars coach will be in March
Source:Â GHANAsoccernet.com
As the Coronavirus spread to 28 countries with case fatality rate placed at 2.2 per cent and transmissibility rate at 1.5 to 2.4 per cent, the Chinese government has clarified that no Nigerian in the Wuhan Province, the epicentre of the Coronavirus outbreak, is affected by the deadly virus that has ravaged the country.
The Ambassador of China to Nigeria, Mr. Zhou Pingjian, while addressing a press conference yesterday in Abuja, also revealed that a total number of confirmed cases of novel coronavirus infection has climbed to 17, 205, with 21, 558 people suspected to be infected.
This is coming as the Chinese Armed Forces have been deployed in to lead interventions in Wuhan city, the epicentre of the outbreak.
The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), has however, disclosed that isolation facilities for Coronavirus would be sited in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and seven states across the country.
The ambassador stressed that there were 60 Nigerians in Wuhan north and none of them is infected with the virus.
He lamented that some countries have overreacted by denying Chinese visas to their country, saying it is not the best way to tackle the epidemic.
He said: “As of 7.00 a.m, Abuja time today (yesterday) the total number of confirmed cases of novel coronavirus infection climbed to 17,205 and 21,558 people were suspected of being infected with the virus in the Chinese mainland, according to China’s National Health Commission.
“A total of 361 people had died of the disease; 475 people had been discharged from hospital after recovery. These are not numbers. These are lives, families, communities. This is going to be an unforgettable Spring Festival for the Chinese, as families are separated but united to stand together in the of face the disease.”
Pingjian stressed that fighting the spread of the epidemic is a common concern of the international community, adding that China was willing to work with other countries in the world, including Nigeria, to respond to the epidemics actively.
He stressed that China has taken the most comprehensive and rigorous containment and mitigation measures, stressing that there are 60 Nigerians in Wuhan north and none of them is infected with the virus.
The ambassador also assured that the Chinese government was committed to safeguarding the safety and health of the Chinese people, adding that it would also in a responsible manner, safeguard the safety of every foreign national in China, including the Nigerian expatriates and address their legitimate concerns in a timely manner.
Pingjian noted that the Chinese government has kept very smooth communication with foreign embassies in China to keep them abreast on how to contain the virus, while the embassy in Abuja is not sleeping about the virus.
Despite the spread of the virus, he said that the embassy has not stopped issuing visas to those who plan to visit China.
The Chinese government said it was not the first time it is facing such epidemic, adding that Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARA) broke out in the country in 2003 and it was contained, while insisting that it has the capability to contain the spread of the virus.
Military Takes over Wuhan
Meanwhile, the Chinese Armed Forces have been deployed in Wuhan city, the epicenter of the outbreak, to help contain the epidemic.
Reports show that there is a combined presence of heavily armed army, navy and air force personnel across major hospitals, highways, borders and other public places across Wuhan city.
Although, the Chinese Military, in its official website, claimed that the military deployment was for the armed forces to deliver emergency medical supplies to the city, it is believed their job is also to ensure total compliance to the lockdown put in place by the government, which ensures no resident or visitor leaves or comes into the highly volatile area.
The Chinese Defence Ministry said: “Upon direct order of Chinese President Xi Jinping, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force on Sunday began airlifting 1,400 medical staff as well as 58 tons of medical supplies to Wuhan, located in China’s Hubei province. Many of the military doctors and nurses chosen for the job have experience treating either the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003 or Ebola in West Africa in 2014.
“They are to join the 450 military personnel already in the city. The Chinese military also took control of the newly constructed Huoshenshan Hospital on Sunday after it was constructed in less than 10 days. It is expected to open Monday and includes 1,000 beds, intensive care units and sections for diagnosis and infection control,” it added.
The Chinese government has also commenced the construction of a second makeshift hospital in the city, the Leishenshan Hospital, which is expected to be in operation by Wednesday.
Countries so far affected are; Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, Macau, Australia, Hong Kong, United States, France, Vietnam, Canada, UAE, Italy, Russia, Cambodia, Finland, India, Nepal, Cambodia, Finland, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Phillipine which has had one fatality, and of course China.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government, through the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, and the Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, has on several occasions, stated that the Ports Health Service at airports have been beefed up to detect signs of the virus. It has also asked travellers from China to self-quarantine themselves for 14 days.
In a statement on the NCDC’s website, it said, “NCDC is currently preparing treatment and isolation facilities in the Federal Capital Territory and seven other priority states in Nigeria. They are Lagos, Akwa-Ibom, Rivers, Enugu, Delta, Cross River, and Kano State.
On the risk of the virus coming to Nigeria, NCDC said, “The risk assessment conducted by WHO places the country at High Risk, meaning that there is a high chance of an infected person (traveller) coming into Nigeria. Till date, there is no confirmed case of the novel coronavirus in Nigeria.
“The Nigerian government is closely monitoring the ongoing novel coronavirus 2019 outbreak which originated in Wuhan, China. A multi-sectoral Coronavirus Preparedness Group has been established at the NCDC. The Coronavirus Preparedness Group meets daily to carry out regular epidemic intelligence gathering.
“The Port Health Services Division of the Department of Public Health has heightened screening at the ports of entry, especially for travellers with a travel history to China. The NCDC has established a standard case definition for novel coronavirus and circulated it to State Ministries of Health, health facilities and all relevant stakeholders to guide detection and response.”
However, in some countries, even more developed than Nigeria, including Russia, United States, and France, their governments have ensured travellers from China are first quarantined by the government for 14 days before they are asked to integrate in the country they are in. The quarantine, monitored by these governments, is to ensure the travellers adhere to the directive, as this will work more effectively than asking travellers to self-quarantine.
WHO Wants Countries to Heighten Health Security Surveillance
In a related development, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged countries to heighten their health security surveillance to be able to quickly detect cases.
To minimise the risk of contracting the disease, WHO has said people should protect themselves and families thus: “Avoid close contact with anyone coughing, sneezing or showing symptoms of respiratory illness.
“Others symptoms of coronavirus includes fever and shortness of breath, severe cases can lead to pneumonia, kidney failure and in worse scenarios death.”
“Cook food thoroughly before consumption. Scientists are claiming that animals are the primary host of the coronavirus. Due to this health official recommended cooking meat and animal products like eggs, milk, thoroughly before consumption.
“When visiting markets in areas currently experiencing cases of novel coronavirus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals.”
“Anyone with underlying medical conditions should avoid live animal markets and raw meats together, since those people are “considered at higher risk of severe disease.”
“Do not eat sick animals or those that died from diseases or unknown causes.”
“Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.”
“If you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your healthcare provider.”
“Cover mouth and nose if you are the one feeling sick, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and disinfect the objects and surfaces you touch.”
“When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands”.
Source:Â allafrica.com
For the second time, the newly inaugurated Asokwa Municipal Assembly failed to elect a Presiding Member after the two contestants failed to poll the required number to assume the post.
After the two rounds of voting, the two who contested for the position the last time, Oscar Richies and Bismark Osei Tutu, failed to obtain two thirds of the votes cast to enable them to be sworn in as PM.
In the first round of the voting, they polled nine votes each, thus necessitating a second round.
In the second round, Mr Osei Tutu beat his rival by a single vote, thus obtaining 10 votes.
The voting pattern was the reverse of what happened on January 23, 2020 when Mr Richies rather got 10 votes in the second round of the voting.
New nominees
The two thus become ineligible to contest for the position when nominations open at a later date for the position, so there will be new nominations at the next meeting.
Welfare
The Amakomhene, Nana Adu Asare Mensah, who chaired the occasion, advised the assembly members to bury their differences and be guided by the development of the assembly and the welfare of the residents than their selfish interest.
Source:Â Graphic.com.gh
Ghanaians woke up on the sudden death of High-life musician Kofi Boakye Yiadom popularly known as Kofi B on the 2nd of February 2020 shortly after he was rushed to the hospital.
As earlier reported, the legendary highlife musician died in the early hours of Sunday after a performance in the Central Region of Ghana.
As explained by Kof Nti, a colleague musician of the late Kofi B, he started complaining of chest pains and unusual heartbeat moments after his performance so he was rushed to the hospital but he died hours later.
After his demise tributes and farewell, messages have flooded the space on social media as a way to show their last respect to the high-life icon.
The late Kofi B as known was a free-spirited human being who loved to play with all and have fun when necessary.
Ghpage.com has sighted a video of the late Kofi B displaying his boxing skills breaking the heart of fans as they recount memories of him.
Check out the Video:
Source:Â ghpage.com
Cristiano Ronaldo scored two penalties to take his tally to 10 goals in his last six games as Juventus beat Fiorentina 3-0.
The hosts were first awarded a spot kick for handball in the first half and Ronaldo swept home the penalty.
Rodrigo Bentancur was fouled inside the box towards the end of the second half and Ronaldo again converted.
Matthijs de Ligt then headed in a third in injury time.
Ronaldo has now scored in nine successive Serie A games for Juventus, becoming the first player to do so since David Trezeguet in December 2005.
He has also scored 50 goals in just 70 appearances since joining the Italian giants in 2018.
The win strengthens Juventus’ place at the top of the table, with 54 points from 22 games – six clear of Inter Milan.
Source:Â bbc.com
Actress and filmmaker Yvonne Nelson has released a stunning photo of herself on Twitter as she marks 10 years on the social networking site.
Yvonne has been on Twitter since February 4, 2020, and has over 1 million followers.
She posted the photo with her usual caption; “I know you like….â€
I know you like…..😉 pic.twitter.com/1vRC1mLPEJ
— ð“¨ð“¥ð“žð“ð“ð“” | ð“ð“”ð“›ð“¢ð“žð“ (@yvonnenelsongh) February 4, 2020
The 34-year-old mother has been in the movie industry for over 10 years.
Source: www.ghgossip.com
The Oteng family have been in the news for some days now after news broke that the business mogul Dr. Kweku Oteng has married an additional wife to his other four wives.
After some amazing photos of Linda Achiaa, went viral yesterday, she has been spotted in some new photos flaunting the huge mansion she lives in and the cars she cruises in.
In the photos sighted, it can be said that Linda is an owner of a Benz, Range Rover, and another car. It is not yet known if they are her own properties she earned from her hard earn sweat or properties she gained from her husband.
Watch photos below….
Atletico Madrid and Roma are interested in making a summer move for Jesse Lingard, according to reports.
Lingard has struggled for form this season and has come in for criticism from fans and pundits after finding the back of the net just twice in 32 games.
The midfielder hasn’t scored a Premier League goal since December 2018 and has only made six league starts since August.
Source:Â Dailymail.co.uk
Odion Ighalo’s Deadline Day move to Manchester United is proof the club can no longer attract the world’s best strikers, according to Eidur Gudjohnsen.
A largely uneventful January transfer window ended with United in a frantic last-gasp search for a striker to bolster their attacking options in the absence of injured England international Marcus Rashford.
Former Watford striker Ighalo eventually emerged as United’s answer on loan until the end of the season, having earlier been unsuccessful in signing Erling Braut Haaland, who opted for Borusssia Dortmund, and Bournemouth’s Joshua King.
Former Chelsea forward Gudjohnsen told the Transfer Talk podcast United were always going to struggle to recruit a top calibre striker during the January window.
Asked how far back United have fallen, Gudjohnsen said: “It comes back to the time of the season of this [Ighalo] transfer as well. I don’t think any of the best strikers are available.”
He added: “I don’t think any of the best strikers are eager to join United anymore.”
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink says Ighalo, who has played in China since January 2017, is unlikely to have even been a third choice target for United.
“He must be the luckiest man! Going to China, being away from Europe nobody seeing him for two and a half years since he was at Watford and then getting a loan move at United,” he said.
“Wow. That doesn’t happen!
“It says how far behind United are from Liverpool, Manchester City and even Chelsea. They have got a big job ahead.
“They needed somebody in. I think he was not their number one and I would be surprised if he was their number two or three as well.
“He is getting an opportunity and he will definitely get minutes and we will see if he can do it.”
Hasselbaink also says United’s struggles in the transfer market are even harder to understand after they sold Romelu Lukaku last summer and loaned Alexis Sanchez both to Inter Milan.
He added: “They knew that they needed a new striker for a long time. I don’t know how much money that they have but it is Manchester United.
Source:Â skysports.com
Turkish side Trabzonspor have condemned racial abuse aimed at former Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi following their win over Fenerbahce on Saturday.
The Nigeria international, 32, was targeted on social media after a 2-1 victory that moved Trabzonspor above their opponents into third place.
The club say they have filed “criminal complaints” against those responsible.
“Racism is a shelter for [the] helpless and ignorant,” Trabzonspor said in a statement on Twitter.
Mikel’s Trabzonspor team-mate Joao Pereira said it was “sad and unacceptable”.
Source:Â bbc.com
In the wake of celebrities demanding what is due them by people who contract them to play roles in their movies, popular comedian, DKB has joined the fray.
According to him, he was contracted by Kobi Rana in 2017 to play a role in his movie ‘The Christmas After Party’ as a police officer…three years down the line, Kobi has not paid the GHC500.00 due him.
DKB said after that movie, Kobi again reached out to him to play another role in a new movie. After telling Kobi that he was charging him GHC2,000.00, Kobi Rana told him that the money is huge and he couldn’t pay.
DKB said the most annoying thing is that Kobi will sometimes call him with a promise to send him his money the next time yet he will not receive anything.
“…out of nowhere they can call you; ‘Hello DKB your money is ready so I’ll send it to you tomorrow. The following day you will call him and ask ‘Kobi where’s the money’ and he’ll respond ‘I’ve forgotten so let’s make it next week,’” the Comedian said.
A private company has constructed and handed over a four-bedroom apartment to the Ghana Police Service.
The facility, funded by Franco Estates and Cold Store Enterprise (FECSE) at the cost of GH¢350,000, will serve as residential accommodation for police officers attached to the Franco Estate Police Station at ACP, North Ofankor near Accra.
The same company in 2017 built a police station for the police in the ACP community.
Challenges
At a handover ceremony, the Accra Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Mr Frederick Adu Anim, commended the real estate company for assisting the police with office and residential accommodation and gave an assurance that the facilities would be well maintained.
He said with the growth in population and other factors, “criminal activities are also on the rise, calling for more police stations and the upgrading of the existing onesâ€.
That notwithstanding, the Accra Regional police commander said the police service, like many public institutions, had challenges in providing adequate office and residential accommodation for personnel.
“Over the years, various interventions by the government and the police administration seem not to have tackled the problem holistically,†he said.
As part of interventions, Mr Adu Anim said the police administration endorsed public, private partnership (PPP) initiatives to close its infrastructure gap.
The Ghana Police Service, he said, in its quest to carry out its constitutional mandate of maintaining law and order, continued to look for innovative ways of combating crime and “one of the surest ways is bringing policing to the doorstep of the public and making police presence felt in every nook and cranny of the metropolisâ€.
After handing over the apartment to the police, the CEO?of the company, Mr Francis Kwesi Nyankson, said the gesture formed part of efforts by the real estate developer to contribute towards combating crime in the area.
He said his company would continue to provide facilities to enable the police to carry out their mandate of fighting crime and ensuring law and order.
Mr Nyankson said the police deserved to work under good conditions so that they would feel comfortable and motivated to give of their best.
Police in community
The Kwabenya District Police Commander, Superintendent Kombat Damontin, said accommodating the police in the community in which they worked had enormous benefits, such as making it easy for the police to respond promptly to distress situations.
“The current increase in infrastructure has boosted the morale and confidence of the personnel in the district,†he said and gave an assurance that “we will step up supervision to ensure that officers posted act professionally, efficiently, effectively, show empathy, humility and honesty in all their dealings with the publicâ€.
Source:Â Graphic.com.gh
The National Service Secretariat (NSS) has reposted all the six national service persons who were assigned to a school in Dansoman that has only one student.
Three of them were reposted to the Association of African Universities at East Legon, while the other three were reposted to the Pentecost Vocational Training Institute at Mallam-Gbawe, the Odorgonno Senior High School (SHS) at Awoshie and the Mataheko 1 Basic School at Kaneshie, all in Accra.
The reposting followed a publication in the Daily Graphic which reported the grievances of the six service persons who had been posted to the Dansoman SHS, only to discover that there was only one student in the school.
Headmistress
The headmistress of the private Dansoman SHS had refused to release the six for reposting to another school when they made the request, claiming that although there was only one student in her school, she still needed the services of the NSS persons
The six, who started working in their new stations on January 27, this year, expressed appreciation to the Daily Graphic and the NSS for their intervention.
“We thank the Daily Graphic so much for its intervention. We are grateful for the effort,†they said, adding: “We thank the NSS too for promptly coming to our aid following the publication.â€
The Deputy Executive Director of the NSS, Dr Gifty Oware, charged the six to diligently render their services at their various posts, saying it was required of them to put in the effort to achieve the best results.
“Just go and do your best for Mother Ghana,†she told them.
Background
The Tuesday, January 21, 2020 issue of the Daily Graphic carried a story about the six national service persons who were in a tango with the Headmistress of the Dansoman SHS over their reposting to another school after they had found out that the SHS they had been posted to, had only one student.
The Dansoman SHS, owned by Mrs Elizabeth Daniels, the Headmistress, offers courses in General Arts and Business.
The only student of the school is a girl in SHS Three, preparing to write the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in April this year.
Service persons
Although the six service persons received their monthly allowances paid them by the NSS, they claimed they were unproductive at the Dansoman SHS and feared that could hurt their future job-hunting prospects.
They, therefore, asked to be released, so that they could be reposted by the NSS, but the headmistress was reluctant to endorse their release letters.
In an interview with the Daily Graphic, Mrs Daniels said she had refused to endorse the release letters because she felt she needed the services of the service persons.
Source:Â Graphic.com.gh
The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako-Atta, has assured the people of Salaga, and, by extension, the people of the Savannah Region that the 138-kilometre Tamale-Salaga-Makango Road will be completed by the end of the year.
Speaking at Kpalbe, in the Salaga North constituency of the Savannah Region, Kwasi Amoako-Atta, on Monday, 3rd February, 2020, at a durbar in honour of the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Roads Minister noted that the completion of the 138 kilometre stretch of road will enhance economic activities of the region.
He noted that the first 51 kilometres of the road was upgraded to a bituminous surface nearly 2 decades ago, and is currently in satisfactory service condition.
The remaining stretch of the road of about 87 kilometres, however, is “gravel surfaced and in poor conditionâ€.
In order to upgrade the remaining section of the Tamale-Salaga-Makango road to bituminous surface standard, to facilitate smooth flow of traffic and, thereby, stimulate socio-economic development within the influence area of the road, the Ministry of Roads and Highways awarded the remaining stretch of the road on contract to 2 contractors.
The contractors are Messrs A&N Ghanem Ltd, which was awarded the contract for upgrading of the 51km to 80km stretch at a cost of GH¢28,207,442.73.
Hon. Kwasi Amoako-Atta noted that the project is currently about 50% complete, and the works are progressing at a satisfactory rate, and the said stretch will be completed before the end of the year.
The second contractor, Messrs Engineers and Planners Ltd, was awarded the contract for upgrading of 81km to 138km stretch at a cost of GH¢140,894,170.55.
As part of his tour, President Akufo-Addo also visited the Binjai-Fufulso road, which spans 120 kilometres.
The road is being developed to link the Tamale to Salaga road, and the Tamale to Buipe road, and, thereby, reduce the journey time between Salaga and Damango.
The works, programmed to be implemented on the road, include the upgrading of the first 40-kilometre stretch of road, which is already gravel surfaced, and the construction of 80 kilometres road through a virgin area.
The works for the contract have been awarded to Messrs Mawums Limited, at a cost of GH¢282,157,855.20.
“The project when completed will enhance economic activities within the influence area of the road and enhance the standard of living of the people in the Communities which are sited along the road,†Hon. Kwasi Amoako-Atta added.
Source:Â classfmonline.com
Some folks from Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana has organised a funeral ceremony for late NBA star, Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna Maria-Onore Bryant.
In a viral video, the few people who attended the funeral were seen crying.
A man stood in front of a poster that had the image of Kobe and his daughter on it and he started pouring out his heart on how much he has been affected by the death of the NBA icon.
Ghanaian rapper, CJ Biggerman has shown off his maize storeroom harvested from his farm indicating that he is really a great businessman.
According to him, he is a farmer by day and a rapper by night.
In some photos he shared on his Instagram page, CJ Biggerman could be visibly seen filling some sacks with his harvested maize awaiting its scarcity before releasing it into the market for some cool cash.
He wrote as a caption;
“Farmer by day, RAPPER BY NIGHT. #Hustle. #ThebiggerPicture.â€
Farming is one of the most lucrative businesses that are worth investing in.
Although it is a seasonal work, it really pays off fast.
See Post Below:
Riding on motorcycles have become the over used means of transportation in Nigeria. About 80% of transportation are normally done with an Okada.
The government of Nigeria recently announced the ban of Okada in the country.
The Lagos state government banned the use of the Okada due to excessive deaths and disorderliness caused by motorbike and motorized tricycle taxis, known as “Keke napepsâ€.
Citizens of Nigeria have however resorted to horses as means of transportation for everyone who wants to reach their destinations in a haste.
This ban took effect on 1 February and will be enforced on all major highways and bridges. It will be extended to other areas after an impact assessment is done.
Smartly, horse owners hit the road to replace the Okada riders.
The National Road Safety Authority (NRSC) has indicated that the time has come for drivers who cause road accidents in the country to be sanctioned.
According to the Authority, this will go a long way to deter others and ensure that drivers observe all safety rules and regulations when on the road.
This comes in the wake of recent accidents in the country. The National Road Safety Authority said it is stepping up its education of drivers to be cautious and observe safety measures on the road and if they fail to, they will face the necessary sanctions.
Speaking on Uniqq FM, today February 3 2020, Director of Planning and Programmes at the NRSA, Mr David Osafo Adonteng hinted on the Authority’s decision of sanctioning drivers who cause road crashes
”We expect our colleagues from the Police, Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD) to also enforce the law vigorously, this time around if anyone caught misbehaving on the road in a manner that will bring death or injury, that particular driver must be punished severely so that we will see punitive actions in terms of enforcement, and am sure that will put a lot of fear in them. If education alone cannot do the trick, then am sure we would have to bring in the harsh punishment and punitive measures so that they can change our behaviour”
”It is up to all of us to change our behaviour and mindset because the road environment is not a place where we joke if you make a mistake it will punish you that its why it’s important we all behave,” he added.
He advised motorists to demonstrate discipline when using the road. Adding, he said pedestrians have some responsibility one way or the other of protecting their lives and the lives of others.
Again, Mr Osafo stated that revoking licences of operation or halting operations of these drivers will be the forms of punishment meted out to drivers who go contrary to the rules and regulations regarding road usage.
He said this action when taken will put some fear in drivers and owners of transport services in the country. Adding, transport owners will see the need to discipline their men to bring sanity on our roads.
Mr Osafo Adonteng further stated that road crashes occur due to indiscipline and non-observance of road safety tips by drivers.
On January 13 this year, a fatal accident occurred at Dompoase near Elmina in the Central Region. This left 34 people dead while several others injured.
The incident occurred after an intercity bus with registration number GR 5704-18 collided head-on with another bus with registration number GN 3780-10.
Again, on February 1 2020, five persons died while 14 others were injured in an accident at Gomoa Antseadze on the Accra Takoradi road.
The accident was between an articulator truck with the registration number AS 8726-10 which collided with a Toyota minibus with registration number GX 3045-18.
Source: primenewsghana.com
The day Prema Selvam sold her hair for 150 rupees ($2; £1.50) in order to feed her young children was the worst of her life.
The mother-of-three had already lost her husband after he had killed himself in a fit of desperation amid mounting debts and a failed dream.
Even then, she still had hope.
But after selling her hair, she was faced with the prospect of having nothing more of value, no way to pay the creditors demanding their money, and no food in the cupboard.
What happened next has inspired people across India.
Drowning in debt
Before his death, Prema and her husband had worked in a brick kiln in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, making just enough to scrape a living together for their young family. But they had hoped for more. Her husband took out a loan to start his own brick kiln, but the plans failed to take off. In a moment of desperation last year, he killed himself.
The pressure fell solely on Prema to not only earn enough to feed, clothe and house herself and her three children, but also to pay back the money they owed for the failed business venture. And for a while she managed, taking her two youngest to work with her.
“When I go to work I get 200 rupees ($2.80) per day, which is enough to run our family,” Prema explains to the BBC.
But she became ill, which meant she couldn’t earn as much.
“I couldn’t carry a heavy load of bricks. I stayed home for most of the time due to a fever.”
She was sick for three months – by the end of which the bills had mounted, and the cupboards had run bare.
“My seven-year-old son Kaliyappan came back from school and asked for food,” she recalls. “Then he started crying due to hunger.”
Prema had no property, jewellery, valuables or kitchen utensils that could be exchanged for cash.
“I didn’t even have a 10 rupee note [$0.14; £0.11] with me. I just had a few plastic buckets.”
Then she realised she did have something she could sell after all.
“I remembered a shop which used to buy hair,” Prema says, thinking immediately of her own hair. India is one of the world’s top exporters of human hair, which is sold around the globe to make extensions. Some Hindu devotees offer up their hair in temples when their prayers are answered.
“I went there and sold my entire head of hair for 150 rupees ($2; £1.50).”
It might not sound like a lot – the money she got might only have been able to buy a lunch at a restaurant in a large city – but in her village, Prema was able to buy much more.
“I got three packs of cooked rice, each costing 20 rupees, for my three children,” she says.
But the respite was only temporary: Prema knew she was out of options, and her thoughts began to turn towards more drastic measures.
Desperation
She went to a shop where she hoped to find something to end her life. But, seeing her state of distress and realising her plan, the shopkeeper refused to sell her anything. Prema went home and decided to find another way of taking her own life. She was saved by her sister, who lives in the neighbourhood and happened to come by in time to stop her.
And then, just a few days later, the help she so desperately needed appeared out of the blue.
Bala Murugan heard about Prema’s situation from a friend who owned a local brick kiln. It immediately struck a nerve: her struggle reminded him of his family’s darkest hour. Bala knows well how poverty can drive people to despair – at the age of 10, his family ran out of food. His mother sold their old books and newspapers by weight to buy rice.
And then, in a state of utter despair, Bala’s mother decided to kill herself and her children. She changed her mind at the last moment: the family rushed their mother to a doctor, and she was saved.
Bala now lives a life a world away from the situation he grew up in. After years of struggle, he has worked his way out of poverty and now owns a computer graphics centre.
And now, he had a chance to pay his own good fortune forward: Bala told Prema about his journey and encouraged her to find hope. Along with his friend, Prabhu, he gave her some money to buy food. Then Bala wrote about the family on social media.
“Within a day I got 120,000 rupees ($1,670). When I told Prema about it she was very happy and said that was enough to pay back most of her loan,” he tells the BBC.
But at Prema’s request, the fundraising was stopped.
“She said she would get back to her work and pay the rest,” Bala explains.
She now has to pay back about 700 rupees a month – about $10 – to different creditors, while district officials have stepped in and promised to help her to set up a dealership selling milk.
Prema is slowly getting back on her feet, but, sadly, her financial situation is far from unique. In spite of India’s economic growth, millions like her struggle to put food on the table.
According to the World Bank, India is home to the second largest number of people living in extreme poverty – classified as those earning less than $1.90 per day.
Prema has another obstacle in her way: she cannot read or write, like tens of millions of other Indians.
As a result, she is unaware of government schemes which provide help to people like her. Meanwhile, the country’s formal banking system has complex rules that make it difficult for poor communities to access credit at low interest rates. Instead, Prema and her husband had borrowed from local money lenders and neighbours at higher rates – sending her spiralling further into debt.
But thanks to her community’s generosity, she is able to see a way out of the cycle of poverty which has kept her trapped. Bala Murugan, meanwhile, has assured the family of his continued support.
“Now I realise suicide was the wrong decision,” she says. “I am confident about paying back the rest of the loan.”
Source:Â bbc.com
Atletico Madrid starlet Joao Felix is a talented player but he’s playing for the “wrong club”, according to Rafael van der Vaart.
Felix became the most expensive Portuguese player in history when he completed a £113 million ($148m) switch from Benfica to Wanda Metropolitano back in July.
The 20-year-old emerged as one of the brightest prospects in European football at Estadio da Luz last season, scoring 19 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions.
His performances attracted attention from some of the world’s biggest clubs, including Real Madrid, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint Germain, but Atletico ended up winning the race for his signature.
Felix started the 2019-20 brightly enough, and picked up the coveted Golden Boy award in November for the best U21 player in Europe, beating the likes of Jadon Sancho and Kai Havertz in the final voting.
The ex-Benfica star has been unable to kick on since then, however, with Atletico slipping down to sixth in the La Liga standings after 22 fixtures.
Simeone’s men were beaten 1-0 by local rivals Real in the Madrid derby at Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, with Felix missing the clash through injury.
Van der Vaart has criticised Simeone for failing to adjust Atletico’s playing style to accommodate Felix, while suggesting the midfielder shouldn’t have chosen to continue his development at Wanda Metropolitano.
“Joao Felix is a fine player, but he’s at the wrong club,” the ex-Real star told Ziggo Sport.
“When they signed the Portuguese striker, I felt that [Diego] Simeone would try and embark on a different brand of playing, but that’s far from the case.
“I understand that winning is important but when you have a talented forward like him, you need to cater to the style of play somewhat to suit his needs.
“Atletico Madrid play in a very compact manner with a heavy focus on defending well and attacking on the counter.
“Felix, I feel, is at the wrong club and working under the wrong coach.”
It is not yet known when Felix will return to action after sustaining a muscle injury during a 0-0 draw against Leganes on January 26, with Atletico now in real danger of finishing outside of the top four in La Liga.
Next up for Simeone’s struggling team is a home fixture against Leganes on Saturday, which comes seven days before they take in a trip to the Mestalla to face Valencia.
Source: goal.com
Suspected riders of motorcycles and tricycles, on Monday, protested their ban by the Lagos State Government. During the protest in Ijora area of the state on Monday, the riders reportedly clashed with police officers.
It was learnt that the clash occurred when the police officers attempted to stop the protest embarked upon by the riders. During the protest, which started around 08.21 am, the protesters blocked the road, burning tyres.
Before the Monday protest, thousands of motorcycle riders working for Gokada and Max had on Friday protested at the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The riders, who carried placards with different inscriptions, demanded the suspension of the planned ban on motorcycle and tricycle riders in 15 local council areas of the state.
The riders lamented that the ban would not only take their means of livelihood but also render them jobless.
Meanwhile, commuters have lamented that they were stranded at Bus Stops, had to trek long distances and pay higher transportation fares to their destinations since the ban commenced.
The Lagos State Government had on January 26 announced that it would commence enforcement of the extant Transport Sector Reform Law 2018 from February 1.
The law banned the operation of motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, and Tricycles in some Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas.
They include Apapa LGA, Apapa Iganmu LCDA, Lagos Mainland LG, Yaba LCDA, Surulere LGA, Itire-Ikate and Coker-Aguda LCDAs and Ikeja LGA, Others are Onigbongbo and Ojodu LCDAs, Eti-Osa LGA, Ikoyi-Obalende and Iru/Victoria Island LCDAs, Lagos Island LGA and Lagos Island East LCDA.
The state government also listed highways, bridges and roads where the law also banned motorcycles and tricycles from operating in the state. Barely 24 hours after the implementation of the law, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, said the compliance level on the ban of the commercial motorcycle and tricycle was over 90 per cent.
The Lagos State Police Command also said it had impounded 188 motorcycles and 78 tricycles as well as arrested 40 persons for refusing to comply with the ban on motorcycles and tricycles in certain areas by the state government.
Gunshots fired, stoning and shooting reportedly ongoing at Ijora Olopa area.
Police, Okada and Keke napep riders are presently at war… pic.twitter.com/ZJCr8Untkr— Happenings Media Ng (@happeningsng) February 3, 2020
Source:Â vanguardngr.com
Coach of Asante Kotoko, Maxwell Konadu has praised Liberty Professionals for their brilliant display against his side.
The Porcupine Warriors were hoping to continue their fine form against the Scientific Soccer lads at their home grounds on Sunday.
However, a late equaliser from William Opoku Mensah as they drew 1-1 with Liberty Professionals.
“We are not happy we lost points at home,†Maxwell Konadu told the press after the game.
“We came strong in the second half but Liberty are a strong team but were hoping to get the three maximum point.
“In general, it was a good match and I think Liberty played better than us but we will work hard and bounce back in our next game.
The stalemate leave the Porcupine Warriors at the 6th position with 13 points.
Kotoko will travel to Sogakope to play WAFA in the matchday eight fixtures.
Source:Â Footballghana.com
CEO of Engineers and Planners who is also the brother of former President John Mahama, Ibrahim Mahama, has extended his humanitarian hand to the doorstep of a little boy who needed to undergo eye surgery.
This little boy, identified as Ransford Yohannes Agbenu had his surgery bills catered for by Ibrahim Mahama.
He required about $8,310, an amount which the family had problems raising.
Per a report made by GhanaWeb, the little boy needed the money for the surgery to avoid him from going blind totally.
His story was published on the front page of the new publisher newspaper and it caught the attention of Mr Mahama who offered to help the little boy.
An aide to Ibrahim Mahama in the person of Rafik Mahama made the donation on behalf of John Mahama and also gave the promise that they will cater for the remaining or any outstanding cost when the main surgery commences in India.
Source: www.ghgossip.com
Oil prices fell on Monday to their lowest in more than a year, dragged down by worries about lower demand in top crude importer China after a new coronavirus outbreak spread from there to about 20 other countries.
Brent crude was at $56.26 a barrel by 9.26 am GMT, down 36 US cents. Prices dropped by more than a $1 earlier in the session to $55.42, the lowest since January 2019.
US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 5c to $51.51 a barrel, after earlier hitting a session low of $50.42, the lowest since January 2019.
On the first day of trade in China after the New Year holiday, investors erased $393bn from China’s benchmark stock index on Monday, sold the yuan and dumped commodities as fears about the virus dominated the markets.
Iranian oil minister Bijan Zanganeh said the spread of the coronavirus had hit oil demand and called for an effort to stabilise oil prices.
“The oil market is under pressure and prices have dropped to under $60 a barrel and efforts must be made to balance it,†Zanganeh said.
He said Iran would agree to hold an earlier Opec meeting if the rest of the group’s members agreed to oil production cuts. Opec and its allies, a group known as Opec+, are considering meeting in February instead of March.
Joint Technical Committee (JTC), made up of members of Opec and other producers, is scheduled to meet in early February to assess the virus effect, Opec+ sources said. “The market needs assurances that the supply/demand equation remains in balance for prices to hit a floor. This suggests a commitment from Opec not just to extend oil supply cuts, but even implement deeper ones beyond March,†said FXTM analyst Hussein Sayed.
As the coronavirus outbreak hit fuel demand in China, Sinopec Corp, Asia’s largest refiner, told its facilities to cut throughput this month by about 600,000 barrels per day.
Independent refineries in Shandong province, which collectively import about a fifth of China’s crude, also slashed output by 30% to 50% in just over a week, executives and analysts said.
“Clearly travel restrictions and the extended shutdown of large parts of the Chinese industrial sector have weighed on oil demand and this is reflected in the weakness that we are seeing in the ICE Brent time spreads,†ING analyst Warren Patterson said.
The premium of the first-month Brent contract to the second-month contract narrowed to 9c a barrel on Monday from 70c a month ago, indicating that traders are not concerned about supply tightness because of the demand effect of the coronavirus.
Source:Â businesslive.co.za
Asante Kotoko coach Maxwell Konadu says Songne Yacouba’s season at the club has ended if he doesn’t renew his contract after rejecting the club’s offers.
The 28-year-old has been omitted from the squad in Kotoko’s last two games – against arch rivals Hearts of Oak and Liberty Professionals in the on-going 2019/20 Ghana Premier League.
Yacouba says he will only sign a new deal if the Porcupine Warriors will pay him an astonishing $150,000 for a three-year deal.
Speaking in an interview following their 1-1 stalemate against Liberty Professionals, coach Maxwell Konadu said the forward will not make the match-day squad in the rest of their games if he fails to renew his contract.
“Like I said last weekend, he [Songne Yacouba] is now not part of my team for the season,” coach Konadu told reporters.
“Yacouba will return to the match-day squad in any of our subsequent games if he agrees terms with the club over a new deal.
“His season at Kotoko has ended if he doesn’t renew his contract.”
Source:Â Footballghana.com
The Competition Commission in South Africa has released the Data Services Market Inquiry final report with findings and recommendations.
The report, among many other things, recommended that mobile network operators MTN and Vodacom, a sister company to Vodafone reach agreement within two months with the Commission to reduce data prices, particularly for monthly bundles, and to address the structure of data pricing, reducing the cost per MB for smaller sub-1GB bundles relative to the 1GB price.
The report also recommended that these operators reach an agreement with the Commission on other pro-poor measures within three months, and these included free data and zero rating of public benefit organisations.
Following the announcement, the Commission says it has separately had productive engagements with Vodacom and MTN, as well as other affected MNOs with regards to the findings and recommendations.
“Given that the engagements with the operators are at an advanced stage, the Commission has decided to extend the two-month deadline by one month to allow sufficient time to conclude these engagements,” it said in a statement.
Source:Â classfmonline.com
The Coalition of aggrieved customers of Gold Coast Fund Management (GCFM) has threatened to vote against the New Patriotic Party if their locked up investments are not paid.
The coalition has given the government a three-week ultimatum to either engage them or face another demonstration.
The Public Relations Officer for the aggrieved customers Charles Nyame addressing the press Monday morning alleged that the Finance Minister Ken Ofori Atta and the Chief Executive of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Rev Ogbamey Tetteh have withdrawn their investments from the Gold Coast Fund Management.
According to him, the failure for the government to pay them their investments amounts to stealing from innocent, hardworking Ghanaians.
“No one prefers free SHS to his personal financial freedom…there is life after free SHS, our wards must continue to the tertiary after free SHS, therefore, we need our money. If Ken Ofori Atta and Rev Ogbamey Tetteh have been able to withdraw all their funds with Gold Coast Fund Management, then what we want to tell them is that we also deserve ours. What is good for the goose is also good for the gander.
“You cannot steal from innocent citizens…ladies and gentlemen, we consider the action of Ken Ofori Atta and Rev Ogbamey Tetteh as stealing from the poor Ghanaians.â€
Background
The SEC on November 8, 2019, revoked the operating licences of 53 investment companies including Blackshield Capital Management (formerly Gold Coast Fund Management).
The company is owned by politician and businessman, Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom.
The revocation of the licences, according to the regulator, was to protect the integrity of the securities market and investors.
The Minority in Parliament described the move as politically motivated.
Source:Â starrfm.com.gh
Ghana captain Andre Ayew has expressed gratitude to coach C.K Akonnor for paying him and his brother a visit in England.
Akonnor met the brothers, who are a key part of the senior national team, to discuss the way forward for the Black Stars ahead of the next international assignment.
“It is an honour for the coach to visit. He has been there before as a captain and understands the situation of wanting to do well for not only us but for all Ghanaians,” Ayew said after Akonnor’s visit.
“We have had a great meeting. We have a double header and it is good that we win and secure qualification in our quest to bring back the Africa Cup,” the Swansea star added.
The Ayew brothers have been influential to the senior national team with Andre the captain of the Black Stars.
Both players are enjoying a good season in England and Wales with the brothers leading the scoring charts for their respective clubs.
The Black Stars will next face Sudan in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on March 22, 2020.
Source:Â GHANAsoccernet.com
Veteran actor Seth Kwabena Kyere Karikari popularly known as Koo Fori has disclosed that eventhough he acts in movies as a drunkard, he has never taken Alcohol in his life.
When asked in an interview on Hitz FM whether he drinks Alcohol, Koo Fori said,
“I have never drunk alcohol before, Never in my life. Immediately I get into the act of a drunkard, I begin to sweat and I do not know where it comes from. Psychologically, it has taken effect on meâ€.
Koo Fori continued,
†My mother cried bitterly the first day she saw me on TV, playing the role of a drunkard. I explained to her but it took her a very long time for her to understand. “
Source:Â Ghgossip.com
The Confederation of African Football’s (Caf) Executive Committee has voted not to renew the mandate of Fifa’s secretary general Fatma Samoura who had been working as General Delegate for Africa for the past six months.
Samoura was given the role from 1 August 2019 by football’s world body following a reported request by Caf.
Fifa confirmed that Samoura’s mandate had come to an end on 1 February 2020 and that the global body’s six-month mission in Africa had been “completed successfully.”
At its Executive Committee meeting in Rabat, Morocco on Sunday, Caf’s members also agreed to analyse Fifa’s set of findings, recommendations and proposals.
On Saturday, Fifa’s president Gianni Infantino spoke to Caf members at a seminar in Morocco on the development of African football where he proposed that the Africa Cup of Nations be held every four years rather than two.
He also said he wants to create a pan-African Super League with 20 permanent member clubs and build new stadiums in every member African country with $1 billion US dollars earmarked to finance the program.
Fifa also confirmed on Sunday that, as agreed at the beginning of its mission in Africa, a “forensic audit report produced by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC)” had been presented to Caf.
Caf thanked Gianni Infantino and Fatma Samoura for their “commitment and involvement in the Caf-Fifa cooperation.
In a press release signed by Caf’s secretary general Mouad Hajji, African football’s ruling body confirmed it had decided to “continue with the implementation of reforms.”
Source:Â BBC Africa
Edward Nii Odoom, the stop gab coach of Hearts of Oak has lauded his player for sticking to their game plan in their matchday seven fixtures against Dreams FC.
The Phobians returned to winning ways after their 2:1 lose to Asante Kotoko.
Harts of Oak pipped Dreams FC 1-0 at the Theatre of Dreams in Dawu on Sunday.
In his post-match presser, Odoom said, “It was a good game for us and after losing to Kotoko, our aim is to bounce back to winning ways.
“The players did very well. Our tactics worked as planned.
Kofi Kordzi got the goal in the second half after he received the ball just inside the penalty area and shot on the turn to win the match for the visitor.
“We planned to play them on the counter when they lose the ball and I think my players did a great job,†he added.
The win on Sunday has sent Hearts of Oak to the 9th position with 10 points.
Hearts of Oak will host Ashgold in the matchday eight fixtures at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Source:Â Footballghana.com
Ghana boss CK Akonnor has held talks with captain Andre Ayew and striker Jordan Ayew in the United Kingdom concerning the coach’s plans for the national team.
The 45-year-old is on a European tour to hold discussions with current players and potential new additions to the Black Stars, having assumed duty as new head coach last month.
He replaced James Kwasi Appiah, whose contract expired at the end of 2019.
“Black Stars Coach, C.K. Akonnor has started his European tour of visiting Ghanaian players by calling on Black Stars captain, Andre Ayew in Wales,” a publication on the Ghana Football Association’s official website reads.
“The Black Stars Coach, whose itinerary for the United Kingdom includes visiting other players in England, was fortunate to have Jordan Ayew visiting his brother in Wales so he ceased the opportunity to have discussions with both players.
“The discussion centred on the coach’s vision, programme and new direction for the national team.
“Charles Akonnor will pay similar visits to other Ghanaian players in England, Spain and Germany in the coming days.
“He will also take the opportunity of his European tour to have a closer look at some players of Ghanaian origin.”
Newcastle United winger Christian Atsu, injured Leicester City man Daniel Amartey, Crystal Palace midfielder Jeffrey Schlupp and Reading defender Andy Yiadom are other Black Stars players in England who could be benefiting from Akonnor’s visit.
“It is an honour for the coach to visit,” Ayew said after the meeting.
“He has been there before as a captain and understands the situation of wanting to do well for not only us but for all Ghanaians.
“We have had a great meeting.
“We have a double header coming up and it is good that we win and secure qualification in our quest to bring back the Africa Cup.”
English-born right-back Tariq Lamptey, who completed a move from Chelsea to Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday, could also be in line for a talk with the coach about his international future.
In Spain, Akonnor could be meeting Atletico Bilbao striker Inaki Williams who has been a long-term target of Ghana.
Source:Â Goal.com
Campaign group Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the Tanzanian government of denying basic health services to LGBT people.
HRW’s report says arbitrary arrests and forced anal examinations are meted out to LGBT people, among other violations of their rights.
“The Tanzanian authorities have orchestrated a systematic attack on the rights of LGBT people, including their right to health. Manufactured threats around the so-called ‘promotion of homosexuality’ have displaced best practices and evidence-based approaches in guiding HIV policy in Tanzania,” said Neela Ghoshal, senior LGBT rights researcher at HRW.
Four years ago, Tanzania’s health ministry banned non-governmental organisations from distributing free lubricants to gay people as part of efforts to control the spread of HIV/Aids.
Health experts criticised the move and warned that it could put the lives of vulnerable populations at risk of HIV infection.
But Tanzania’s health ministry insists that public health centres provide services to people of all backgrounds without discrimination, and says there is no need for specialised services run by civil society organisations targeting LGBT people.
The government is yet to respond to the accusations in this new report but homosexual acts are illegal in Tanzania, and punishable by 30 years to life in prison for “carnal knowledge against the order of nature”.
This has led to many gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people to hide their sexuality.
Source:Â bbc.com
Coach of Asante Kotoko, Maxwell Konadu has praised Liberty Professionals for their brilliant display against his side.
The Porcupine Warriors were hoping to continue their fine form against the Scientific Soccer lads at their home grounds on Sunday.
However, a late equaliser from William Opoku Mensah as they drew 1-1 with Liberty Professionals.
“We are not happy we lost points at home,†Maxwell Konadu told the press after the game.
“We came strong in the second half but Liberty are a strong team but were hoping to get the three maximum point.
“In general, it was a good match and I think Liberty played better than us but we will work hard and bounce back in our next game.
The stalemate leave the Porcupine Warriors at the 6th position with 13 points.
Kotoko will travel to Sogakope to play WAFA in the matchday eight fixtures.
Source:Â Footballghana.com
The Ministry of Sanitation has said it has no direct relationship with the operations of the Ghana First Company Limited as alleged by the First Contractors Association.
The group accused the Ministry of endorsing the activities of Ghana First Company Limited who awarded them contracts to construct toilet facilities across the country without payment.
Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, Nelson Akatey told Citi News the Ministry has no connection with the Ghana First Company Limited.
“The Ministry has no direct relationship with them and they are supposed to source their own funds and liaise with the assembly for the thing to take off.
The only thing I did was, the number of graduates came to brief the Ministry about the project they intended doing.â€
Background
The Ghana First Company Limited, under a Public-Private Partnership with the government, is constructing 10,000 units of modern automated toilet facilities across all Metropolitan, Municipal and Districts around the country in a Clean Ghana project. The company subsequently engaged other contractors to work on the project in order to meet project timelines.
The contractors, who claim to have paid two percent of the contract sum before getting the deals in 2017, say they are yet to be paid by the company.
The First Contractors Association is asking the government to come clear on its arrangement with Ghana First Company Limited to award a contract for the construction of toilet facilities across the country under the Clean Ghana project.
Source: citinewsroomÂ
Herewith results of match day seven of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) played on Sunday.
Kumasi: Kotoko 1-1 Liberty
Dawu: Dreams 0-1 Hearts
Dormaa: Aduana 1-0 Medeama
Bechem: B. Utd 2-1 B. Chelsea
Accra: Olympics 0-1 WAFA SC
Obuasi: AshGold 1-0 Ebusua Dwarfs
Accra: Inter Allies 4-2 King Faisal
Source:Â ghananewsagency.org
A Mauritius fan of Teni was on cloud nine when the Nigerian singer invited him on stage to complement her stagecraft.
Teni is currently on a tour in the beautiful African country and during one of her shows, she performed a song with a young man.
The guy hugged Teni romantically and squeezed her butts momentarily whiles she was performing.
SOURCE: www.Ghgossip.com
All-conquering Novak Djokovic Sunday said a turbulent childhood where he had to queue for milk and bread in war-torn Serbia made him hungry for success, after he fought back from the brink to win his eighth Australian Open.
The 32-year-old needed to dig deep to rally from two sets to one down for the first time in a Grand Slam final and battle past fifth-seeded Austrian Dominic Thiem 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.
His eighth victory in eight finals at Melbourne Park handed him a 17th Major to move within three of Roger Federer’s all-time 20.
Asked how he managed to keep winning in pressure situations, Djokovic said it stemmed from his early life.
“My upbringing was in Serbia during several wars during the ’90s, difficult time, embargo in our country where we had to wait in line for bread, milk, water, some basic things in life,” he said.
“These kind of things make you stronger and hungrier for success I think in whatever you choose to do.
“That probably has been my foundation, the very fact that I came from literally nothing and difficult life circumstances together with my family and with my people.
“Going back to that, reminding myself where I came from always inspires me, motivates me to push even harder.
“That’s probably one of the reasons why I managed to find that extra gear or necessary mental strength to overcome challenges when they present themselves.”
The match against Thiem was one of those occasions.
‘I was a bit shocked’
He looked in trouble after losing the second and third sets, with his energy levels down and a trainer telling him he was dehydrated.
“I definitely did not feel good. I didn’t know what the next moment brings. I was trying to keep myself alive mentally as well, and emotionally,” he said.
“I was a bit shocked that I did feel that way because everything was fine before the match. For the first two sets, everything was okay. But it’s something that you have to accept that you’re going through.
“Those kind of circumstances really kind of force me to let things go and to really try to be in the moment and fight my way back.”
Victory ensured Djokovic will once again be world number one when the new rankings are released on Monday, displacing Nadal. Federer remains third with Thiem moving up a place to a career-high fourth.
It also moved him alongside Nadal (12 at the French Open) and Federer (eight at Wimbledon) as only the third man ever to win eight or more titles at the same Slam.
Djokovic said winning Major titles was the reason he kept playing tennis.
“Obviously at this stage of my career, Grand Slams are the ones I value the most. They are the ones I prioritise,” he said.
“Before the season starts I try to set my form, shape for these events where I can be at my prime tennis, mental and physical abilities.
“Grand Slams are one of the main reasons why I am still competing and still playing full season.”
Source:Â AFP
Novak Djokovic battled through a five-set thriller with Dominic Thiem to maintain his dominance at the Australian Open Sunday, claiming a record eighth title and returning to world number one in the process.
The indomitable Serb stretched his unbeaten streak this season to 13 but he had to rally from two sets to one down to beat the courageous fifth-seeded Austrian 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a nearly four-hour marathon.
It was his 17th Grand Slam title, moving him within two of Rafael Nadal and three of Roger Federer on the all-time list.
“Definitely my favourite court, my favourite stadium in the world and I’m blessed to hold this trophy once again,” said Djokovic.
Victory put him alongside his fellow legends as only the third man in history to win eight or more titles at the same Slam after Nadal (12 at the French Open) and Federer (eight at Wimbledon).
It also ensured he will once again be world number one when the new rankings are released on Monday, usurping Nadal. Federer remains third with Thiem moving up a place to a career-high fourth.
But it wasn’t easy with the Serb looking lethargic and out for the count in sets two and three before regaining his mojo after a medical timeout to grind down the talented Thiem.
Djokovic had never before won a Slam final in seven previous attempts when finding himself two sets to one down.
“You and two other guys (Nadal and Federer) brought men’s tennis to another level. I am happy I can compete in these times,” said Thiem.
“I fell short today but I hope soon I can compete with you again.”
– Nerveless start –
The Serb, 32, was the overwhelming favourite, but the supremely fit and fast Thiem, 26, always had the weapons to trouble him, which he deployed successfully for much of the match, taming his serve and unleashing some explosive groundstrokes.
It was a nerveless start from Djokovic, who comfortably held then put big pressure on the Austrian’s serve, with a forehand into the net giving him an immediate break and a psychological edge after some monster rallies.
Thiem, though, is as strong mentally as he is physically and he finally got on the scoreboard after another tough service game.
And against the run of play, with Djokovic seemingly in control, he broke back, unleashing pinpoint groundstrokes to make the most of some loose Djokovic shots.
But the world number two was unrelenting, breaking again as Thiem served to stay in the set, with the Austrian sending down his first double fault of the match at the crucial moment.
Remarkably, a rare Djokovic double fault handed Thiem a break to go 2-1 up in set two with the courageous Austrian refusing to go away.
The Serb was getting frustrated, looking at his coaching box and pointing at his head.
He refocused and once again began attacking the Thiem serve, breaking back for 4-4, pumping his fists when the fifth seed sent a backhand wide.
But two time warnings on his serve in the next game rattled Djokovic and he was broken again, with the Serb losing his cool by patting the umpire’s foot at the changeover and telling the official: “Great job… you made yourself famous.”
– ‘Tough luck’ –
With Djokovic still looking distracted, Thiem served out the set — the first the Serb had dropped in an Australian Open final since 2015.
Djokovic appeared dejected and was immediately broken twice in set three as Thiem raced to a 4-0 lead, having won six games in a row with Djokovic imploding.
The Serb was heard telling a trainer he was tired and after losing the set, he went for a medical timeout.
He came back and the fourth set went with serve until a Thiem double fault handed the Serb two break points and he converted to regain control, serving out the set with an ace.
Djokovic drew on all his experience to force another break in the deciding fifth set to take a 2-1 lead and kept his foot on the gas to claim an eighth crown from the last 13 Australian Opens.
“It wasn’t meant to be tonight,” Djokovic told Thiem. “Tough luck. It was a tough match. But you were very close to winning it.
“You know, you definitely have a lot more time in your career and I’m sure that you will get one of the Grand Slam trophies. And more. More than one.”
Source:Â France24
Former president Jacob Zuma’s corruption case will be heard for the first time in 2020 on Tuesday, but proceedings will likely be quick as he has said he is still sick, according to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
“[It’s] likely a postponement. Mr Zuma indicated he’s not well, but his request to be excused on account of illness is still under consideration by the court,” NPA spokesperson Bulelwa Makeke told News24.
At his previous appearance, Zuma heard that his appeal for a bid for permanent stay of prosecution had been dismissed with costs.
Three judges – Jerome Mnguni, Esther Steyn and Thoba Poyo-Dlwati – found that there was no compelling reason why he should be granted leave to appeal the dismissal.
Their ruling said it was in the “interest of justice and bringing the matter to finality” that no appeal be granted.
Zuma’s application for a permanent stay of prosecution was based on his long-time allegation that due to an unreasonable delay in the commencement of proceedings, it wouldn’t be possible to receive a fair trial.
The judges differed saying another court would not find otherwise.
In his submission, Zuma said the judges overemphasised the seriousness of his alleged crimes. He asserted that the Supreme Court of Appeal would come to a different conclusion.
Outside court, Zuma, who normally commands a large audience after proceedings in Pietermaritzburg, stood before a paltry group of supporters and passersby.
Zuma is charged along with French arms company Thales of one count of racketeering, 12 of fraud, four of corruption and one of money laundering.
Thales’ stay of prosecution application was also denied.
Source:Â allafrica.com
Cristiano Ronaldo stretched his scoring streak to nine consecutive league games with a penalty double on Sunday as Juventus bounced back from last weekend’s defeat to Napoli with a 3-0 win over Fiorentina.
The Portuguese striker slotted in both his goals from the spot in either half in Turin with Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt heading in a third in injury time.
Maurizio Sarri’s side open up a six-point lead on top of the Serie A table on second-placed Inter Milan, who travel to lowly Udinese later on Sunday.
Juventus had fallen to just their second defeat of the season last weekend at Sarri’s former club Napoli, despite Ronaldo scoring.
Fiorentina, in 14th position, have had a resurgence in form since Giuseppe Iachini took over on December 24, and had been unbeaten in the league this year.
They tested Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny early with the Pole getting his hand to deny Federicio Chiesa’s back-heel kick and a Pol Lirola effort.
Fellow Pole Bart?omiej Dragowski denied Rodrigo Bentancur at the other end before a VAR viewing confirmed Fiorentina’s German Pezzella had handled the ball in the area.
Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo made no mistake, slotting in five minutes before the break.
His second came ten minutes from time after Federico Ceccherini brought down Rodrigo Bentancur.
Ronaldo made it 14 goals in nine games to bring his tally to 19 this season, including seven penalties.
The former Real Madrid player has now scored 50 goals in 70 games since moving to Juventus in 2018.
The 34-year-old also becomes the first Juventus player to achieve a run of goals in nine consecutive league games since David Trezeguet in December 2005.
De Ligt nodded in a Paulo Dybala cross after 91 minutes to hand Iachini his first league defeat with the Tuscany side.
Third-placed Lazio will try to close the gap on Juventus against struggling SPAL later on Sunday.
Roma’s fourth position however is now at risk after losing 4-2 to Sassuolo on Saturday.
Atalanta are just a point behind in fifth before they play relegation-candidates Genoa looking to move into the final Champions League berth.
Source:Â France24
Luke Shaw has revealed Manchester United’s stars were hugely frustrated by their failure to close the gap to the Premier League’s top four.
Fourth placed Chelsea’s 2-2 draw at Leicester on Saturday gave United a chance to chip away at the six-point difference.
But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men slipped to sixth after a 0-0 draw against Wolves at Old Trafford later in the day.
Even the presence of new signing Bruno Fernandes, who made his debut in midfield, couldn’t galvanise United.
Asked how the mood in the dressing room was after the match, United defender Shaw said: “To be honest, really, really disappointed, especially with the way the games have been going recently.
“We haven’t been picking up too many points and today was massive for us, especially with Chelsea dropping points.
“It seems to keep happening. Teams around us drop points and we don’t end up closing the gap and we are suffering from that and we needed to win today.
“Now we haven’t got a game so soon and that is quite annoying, but we’ll have a little break and of course we are looking forward to the big game when we get back.”
United have had a frantic winter fixture schedule and now do not have a match until travelling for a crucial clash at fourth-placed rivals Chelsea on February 17, with a warm-weather camp in Spain lined up in the meantime.
“Maybe it’s nice to have a break but on the other hand with how the game went today, I’d rather have a game around the corner so we can put things right because we need to,” Shaw said.
“But that’s not the case, there’s the break. We’ll regroup, have a little break but obviously focus because it’s not the end of the season yet.
“Look, Chelsea is a massive game and one we seem to love playing in.
“We have played them probably quite a lot as well in the cups and stuff.
“We will have a few days off and then train very hard to get ready for that game because we know it’s going to be tough.
“We want to close the gap and we need to beat them.”
Source:Â France24
Turkey has deployed additional armed vehicles and soldiers to its border with Syria as an intensifying military push by Syrian government forces in the country’s last major rebel-held stronghold has prompted fears of a new refugee crisis.
Backed by Russian jets, the Syrian troops have recently made large advances in Idlib province during the deadly offensive that has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee towards safer areas near the Turkish border, according to the United Nations.
The Syrian government’s campaign has shattered a fragile ceasefire that was brokered last month by Turkey and Russia, raising tensions between the two countries which back opposing sides in the conflict but have also coopoerated in attempts to find a solution to the almost nine-year-old war.
Turkish state media reported on Sunday that the deployment of tanks and other armoured vehicles to Reyhanli district of Hatay province was completed earlier in the day.
“Turkey would do what is necessary diplomatically or militarily in order to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe in Idlib and keep the region stable,” Ahmet Berat Conkar, a member of the Turkish parliament’s foreign affairs committee, told Al Jazeera.
“Ankara would not hesitate to intervene if the Syrian government offensive turns into a catastrophe,” Conkar said.
“We need to protect our border against any kind of threat, particularly terrorism, and control it in case of a refugee flow against the backdrop of the attacks going on in Idlib.”
The UN said on Wednesday that almost 390,000 people – the vast majority of them women and children – had fled their homes in northwestern Syria since December 1.
Turkey hosts more than 3.5 million Syrian refugees and is wary of a fresh influx.
‘Civilians should be protected’
Idlib is home to approximately three million people, half of whom were transferred there en masse from other parts of Syria that were taken by government forces.
Damascus and Moscow maintain the military operation in Idlib is aimed at driving out “terrorists” from the region, in accordance with a 2018 de-escalation agreement reached between Russia, Iran and Turkey.
The Hay’et Tahrir al-Sham armed group, a former al-Qaeda affiliate that is considered by Russia and Turkey a “terrorist” organisation, controls a large portion of Idlib.
Conkar, who is also a senior legislator in the governing AK Party, said Ankara was not opposed to operations against “terrorists” but stressed that civilians should not be harmed.
“Turkey’s understanding of fighting against terrorism requires protecting civilians. However, this is not what is going on in the Syrian regime’s offensive backed by Russia in Idlib. This is the main point of conflict,” he said.
“I believe Turkey and Russia should act in collaboration against terror elements in Idlib and work closer to distinguish civilians from terrorists in the region,” Conkar added.
“The cooperation and trust between the two countries do not seem to be at that level yet, but hopefully it will be in the future.”
6,500 children fleeing daily
Meanwhile, UNICEF, the UN’s children agency, said on Saturday that violence over the past week had forced 6,500 children to flee daily, bringing the total number of displaced minors in the area to more than 300,000 since early December.
The agency said an estimated 1.2 million children “are in desperate need” amid short supplies of food, water and medicine.
“Children and families are taking refuge in public facilities, schools, mosques, unfinished buildings and shops. Many are simply living in the open air including in parks, amidst heavy rains and in the freezing cold. Access to the most basic services like health, water or sanitation is either very limited or non-existent,” UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore said in a statement.
“In Idlib, where more than three-quarters of the population in need are women and children, many families have suffered multiple displacements and are increasingly desperate – with no way to safely escape the violence.”
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recently warned that Ankara may launch a cross-border military operation in Idlib unless fighting there was quickly halted.
Ankara has 12 military observation posts around Idlib, set up in line with the 2018 deal for de-escalation zones in the region, but several of them have since been surrounded or have come under fire by advancing Syrian government forces.
Moscow and Ankara also cooperated late last year in establishing the borders of a so-called safe-zone in a separate region in northeatern Syria following an operation against Kurdish fighters dubbed “terrorists” by Turkey.
Source:Â aljazeera.com
The 37 Military Hospital says it will on from Friday, February 7 to 6 March, 2020, close down some sections of the road units to conduct a routine fumigation exercise.
According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director for Press Relations at the Ghana Armed Forces and sighted by GhanaWeb, the routine exercise will be held at the Medical and Emergency Units (MEU) and the Trauma, Surgical and Emergency Units.
The Hospital said the closure had become necessary to enable the authorities undertake a fumigation as a remedy to any infestation at these units.
“However, measures have been put in place to ensure that patients that are already on admissions are not negatively affected. These patients will be transferred to wards during the fumigation exercise,†the statement read.
The hospital says it deeply regrets any inconvenience that the closure would cause.
Find a copy of the statement below:
Source:Â www.ghanaweb.com
Thirty six people aboard an evacuation flight from China that landed in France on Sunday showed symptoms of the coronavirus, which has killed more than 360 people, Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said.
In all, 254 people arrived in France from the Chinese city of Wuhan, where the deadly virus was first detected, on the second such flight.
“About 20 people who presented symptoms have stayed on the tarmac” at Istres airport in the south of France to undergo further testing, Buzyn told journalists. They included French and non-European nationals.
Tests were carried out to establish whether they had the coronavirus and the results will be known on Monday, the health ministry told AFP.
A further 16 foreign nationals displaying symptoms were flown back to their respective countries.
The second evacuation flight was carrying people of 30 different nationalities, most of them European. Sixty five of the returnees were French.
A total of 124 non-French evacuees swiftly travelled on to their home countries, according to military sources in Istres.
Nine Belgians and three of their partners as well as 15 Dutch citizens and their two Chinese partners were isolated after travelling on from Istres to a military airport near Brussels, according to Belga news agency.
However, 60 others from Mexico, Rwanda, Brazil and Georgia remained on French soil, Buzyn told reporters.
Some of the returnees will be quarantined for 14 days while others would be allowed to head back to their home countries if they showed no symptoms of the virus, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told French broadcaster RTL.
The first planeload of evacuees from China arrived on Friday and are in quarantine at a resort on the Mediterranean coast.
Two passengers from that flight were identified as possible cases of coronavirus, but tests on them came back negative.
Le Drian hailed the “remarkable” cooperation by the Chinese authorities which has allowed all the French nationals who wanted to return home to do so.
The health minister assured that the arrival of more people from Wuhan presented no extra risk of contagion of the virus.
France and its fellow G7 countries will discuss a joint response to the coronavirus epidemic, Germany’s health minister said on Sunday.
So far in France, only six cases of coronavirus have been detected.
Source:Â France24
China’s death toll from a new coronavirus jumped above 360 on Monday to surpass the number of fatalities of its SARS crisis two decades ago, with dozens of people dying in the epicentre’s quarantined ground-zero.
The 57 confirmed new deaths was the single-biggest increase since the virus was detected late last year in the central city of Wuhan, where it is believed to have jumped from animals at a market into humans.
The virus has since spread to more than 24 countries, despite many governments imposing unprecedented travel bans on people coming from China.
The World Health Organization has declared the crisis a global health emergency, and the first foreign death from the virus was reported in the Philippines on Sunday.
In China, all but one of the 57 new deaths were reported Monday in Wuhan and the rest of Hubei province, most of which has been under lockdown for almost two weeks to stop people leaving and transmitting the virus.
The national death toll reached 361, exceeding the 349 mainland fatalities from the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak of 2002-03.
SARS, caused by a pathogen similar to the new coronavirus and also originated in China, killed 774 people — with most of the other deaths in Hong Kong.
Economic woes
The virus is also having an increasingly heavy economic impact, shutting down businesses across China, curbing international travel and impacting production lines of major international brands.
Stock markets in Shanghai and Shenzhen plunged by nearly nine percent on Monday morning as investors returned from a Lunar New Year holiday that had been extended to stop people travelling around China.
In Wuhan, which has been transformed from a bustling industrial hub into a near-ghost town, residents have been living in deep fear of catching the virus.
Its medical facilities have been overwhelmed, and the government has been racing to build two new hospitals in extraordinarily quick timeframes.
The first of those, a 1,000-bed facility, was due to open on Monday, just 10 days after construction began.
About 1,400 military medics will treat patients at the hospital, dubbed “Fire God Mountain”, according to state media.
However with the death toll surging in Wuhan and elsewhere in Hubei province, it was not immediately clear what overall impact the hospitals would have on the virus spreading elsewhere.
In a worrying signal about it already spreading in significant numbers to other parts of China, the eastern industrial city of Wenzhou was on Sunday placed under a similar lockdown to Wuhan.
Roads in Wenzhou, 800 kilometres (500 miles) to the east, were closed and its nine million people were ordered to stay indoors.
Only one resident per household in Wenzhou is allowed to go out every two days to buy necessities, authorities announced.
Travel curbs
The emergence of the virus coincided with the Lunar New Year, when hundreds of millions travel across the country in planes, trains and buses for family reunions.
The holiday — originally scheduled to end last Friday — was extended by three days to give authorities more time to deal with the crisis.
But some major cities — including Shanghai — extended the holiday again, and many schools and universities delayed the start of new terms.
Road traffic on Sunday, when hundreds of millions of people would have been expected to return to their cities of work, was down 80 percent, the transport ministry said.
The number of infections in China also jumped signficantly on Monday, passing 17,200.
Stopping the spread
The first person to die overseas from the virus was a 44-year-old man from Wuhan who travelled to the Philippines, the World Health Organization said.
The G7 countries — Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States — have all confirmed cases of the virus.
They will discuss a joint response, Germany’s health minister Jens Spahn said on Sunday.
The US, Australia, New Zealand and Israel have banned foreign nationals from visiting if they have been in China recently, and they have also warned their own citizens against travelling there.
Mongolia, Russia and Nepal have closed their land borders.
Source:Â France24
