The President of Ghana, along with many Ghanaians, is mourning the loss of Christian Atsu today.
During the service, the President and other state officials filed past Atsu’s casket.
Without hesitation, the President took a deep bow in front of the casket and later turned to bow to Atsu’s family.
Other officials followed his lead. It was an endearing gesture that showed the deep sadness felt by all. Stay tuned for more updates on this sad story.
Watch it live here:
Former Black Stars player Christian Atsu‘s final funeral rites are ongoing today at the State House in Accra.
His family, friends, fans, and the public are paying their respects before a pre-burial service.
His remains will be interred at his hometown in Ada.
Prominent figures including President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia are expected to attend.
Stay tuned for updates.
Ghanaian music sensation Stonebwoy, fondly called 1Gad, has announced that his fifth studio album will feature some of the biggest names in the music industry. The album, which is set to drop soon, will have about 18 tracks and will include collaborations with heavyweights such as Shaggy from Jamaica and Africa’s Angelique Kidjo.
Stonebwoy, who is currently on a promotional tour in the United States of America (USA), expressed excitement about the album and revealed that he has a few surprises in store. “There are some heavy names on there. I don’t even know if I can release it right now, but I could drop it, and I am going to drop it over here [in America],” he said.
In addition to Shaggy and Kidjo, the album will also feature Dexta Daps, a Jamaican singer known for his romantic ballads. According to Stonebwoy, the collaboration with Dexta Daps is “for the ladies.”
The album will not only showcase commercially successful acts, but also niche market female artists that Stonebwoy believes in. He wants to create something organic and not forced, as he believes that will result in a better product.
The album will feature a fusion of Amapiano and Reggae sounds, with Stonebwoy putting his Dancehall flavour and unique style into the mix. In fact, the album will also feature one of the biggest artists and DJs from South Africa, Maporisa. Stonebwoy assures fans that the album will have something for everyone, including a Reggae song and other beautiful tracks.
Had an exclusive playback session with my partners @defjam and the entire label in New York! Are you ready for the title of ALBUM 5? ⏳ pic.twitter.com/QJpAUQ70kL
— 1GAD (@stonebwoy) March 11, 2023
Stonebwoy has been making waves in the entertainment industry, as he was recently seen in the company of American star Jordin Sparks in a recording studio. He also made headlines for his 65th Grammy appearance, where he went on a networking spree.
On March 11, 2023, Stonebwoy took to Twitter to announce that he and his partners Def Jam Recordings had listened to the album in its entirety. Fans can’t wait to get their hands on this highly-anticipated album.
The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates for this year will take place from Monday, July 31 to September 26, 2023, while the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for both school and private candidates will be written simultaneously from Monday, August 7 to Friday, August 11, 2023.
The schedule for both exit examinations for final-year students of senior high schools (SHSs) and junior high schools (JHS) has been brought forward by a month compared to the schedule for 2022.
The Head of Public Affairs of WAEC, Agnes Teye-Cudjoe, clarified that the schedule, particularly for the WASSCE, would be for candidates in Ghana.
Mrs Teye-Cudjoe announced that the portal for the registration of eligible candidates for the WASSCE for school candidates had been opened and would close on Wednesday, April 19, 2023.
The council had also held briefing sessions nationwide for the authorities of 978 schools who were expected to present candidates for the examination.
She urged candidates to ensure their bio-data are captured correctly and that any amendment of their date of birth, re-arrangement/addition or subtraction of names, will not be entertained after the release of the final results and printing of certificates.
Mrs Teye-Cudjoe also cautioned schools against committing illegalities, such as advertising the examination in any form and registering students who were not in their final year, and she noted that it was an offense to register “remedial” students who had previously written the WASSCE SC and joined some public/accredited private schools in form three for examination purposes only. The approved WAEC registration fee for entry in seven or eight subjects was GH¢381.24, and that the figure was exclusive of the fees for practical or oral tests.
Regarding the BECE for school and private candidates, Mrs Teye-Cudjoe stated that the council would hold briefing sessions for all stakeholders who would be involved in the registration of candidates from the respective schools, adding that the sessions would focus on the guidelines and requirements for the registration process.
Mrs Teye-Cudjoe urged candidates and their parents or guardians to take note of the registration procedures, which included the correct spelling and arrangement of names, confirmation of date of birth, and the proper capturing of candidates’ photographs.
She also emphasized that the registration of non-school or unqualified candidates, as well as the falsification of continuous assessment scores, were illegal and punishable by de-recognition of the affected school, disciplinary action, and withholding of results.
In conclusion, Mrs Teye-Cudjoe urged all stakeholders to comply with the rules and regulations governing the WASSCE and BECE examinations, and to report any illegalities or irregularities to the appropriate authorities.
Are you tired of wearing the same old, boring outfits? Do you want to make a bold statement with your fashion choices? Look no further than kente, the ultimate fashion statement!
Originating from Ghana, kente is a vibrant and colourful fabric that has been worn for centuries for special occasions and celebrations. But don’t think that kente is limited to traditional wear. It can be incorporated into modern fashion in a variety of ways.
With its vibrant colours and intricate designs, kente fabric is a true representation of African culture and heritage.
For men, kente can be incorporated into traditional outfits such as the agbada, buba and sokoto, or it can be used to make modern suits and blazers. Yes, you read that right – a suit made entirely out of kente fabric. Pair it with a solid-colored shirt and shoes for a sophisticated yet eye-catching look. If a full suit is too much for you, try incorporating kente into your accessories. A kente bow tie or pocket square can add just the right amount of flair to your outfit.
If you’re feeling daring, why not try a kente shirt paired with denim jeans for a trendy and bold look?
For women, kente can be used to make beautiful dresses, skirts, blouses, and even head wraps. A kente dress with a slit can be perfect for a summer wedding, while a kente skirt can be paired with a white blouse for a chic and professional look. And let’s not forget the versatility of kente head wraps, which can be styled in various ways to add some elegance to any outfit.
For a more subtle touch, try a kente scarf or purse. Kente is not just limited to clothing, though. It can also be used to make accessories such as bags, shoes, and jewellery. A kente tote bag can be perfect for a day out, while kente earrings can add some extra pop to any outfit.
Whether you choose to wear kente in a traditional or modern way, it is certain to make a statement.
Unleash your inner fashionista and make a bold statement with your style! Don’t hesitate to infuse kente into your wardrobe and turn heads everywhere you go. Trust us, nothing screams fashion-forward quite like kente – it’s the epitome of a fashion statement!
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) and its partners have launched the ‘Stop Hep C Ghana’ project, a move aimed at enrolling Hepatitis C patients for free treatment and care to support the global hepatitis elimination effort.
Under the project, the government of Egypt has donated fifty thousand DAA drugs to treat and care for Hepatitis C patients for free. Designated health centres have received a consignment for screening and treatment as the disease requires specialized care.
Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus, and the most common modes of infection are through exposure to small quantities of blood and sexual practices that lead to blood exposure. Health experts warn that new HCV infections are usually asymptomatic, and significant numbers of those who are chronically infected develop liver cancers.
Antiviral medicines are the only way out that can cure more than 95% of persons with Hepatitis C infection. However, access to diagnosis and treatment is low. For this reason, the ‘Stop Hepatitis C’ Ghana Project has been launched with support from the Government of Egypt to provide free treatment and care to persons suffering from Hepatitis C and help eliminate hepatitis in Ghana.
There is currently no effective vaccine against hepatitis C. But early diagnosis can prevent the health problems that may result from infections and prevent transmission of the virus.
The Ambassador of Egypt to the United States Motaz Zahran Egypt Ambassador to the United States said Ghana is the first African Country to benefit from the first shipment of a half (1/2) tone of medicines to treat hepatitis C under the One hundred million health Presidential initiative to eradicate Hepatits C and viral disease by Egypt under the framework of the Africa Union Agenda.
The Deputy Health Minister Mahama Asei Seini said the project seeks to identify and link 50 thousand Ghanaian HCV patients to care with donated DAA medicines from the Government of Egypt. He called on all to come out and test to know their Hepatitis status. Over 18 health centres will be selected for the free screening and testing exercise under the ‘Stop Hep C-Ghana Project.’
Development partners commended the Government of Egypt for the timely intervention to help prevent hepatitis C in Ghana. The project will have 50% of the eligible population screened, 90% of identified HCV patients linked to care and 95% of patients initiating treatment. The Ghana Health Service was presented with the drugs for the free treatment and care for the Stop Hepatitis C Project.
The Director of the Ghana Health Service Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye expressed the government of Ghana’s appreciation to the Government of Egypt for the support to eliminate hepatitis in Ghana.
A couple from a French African country has gained attention on social media for their low-budget wedding ceremony. The couple got many excited over their unconventional wedding photos.
In a world where the pressure to have a lavish wedding ceremony can be overwhelming, this couple proved that simple is just as beautiful. They ditched the traditional wedding attire and opted for matching T-shirts with their own faces printed on them. How cute is that?!
And the wedding ceremony itself? Well, it was nothing short of intimate. The couple had only a handful of guests to witness the exchange of vows and that special first kiss.
Their low-budget wedding has received a lot of love online, with many applauding the couple for not giving in to societal pressure. Some even joked about how they wish they had done the same to avoid the debt that comes with expensive weddings.
We’re definitely fans of this low-key approach to marriage. Congrats to the happy couple and here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and many more viral moments!
Source: The Independent Ghana
Christian Atsu, a 31-year-old professional soccer player for Hatayspor and former Premier League player for Chelsea and Newcastle, has been rescued after being trapped in the aftermath of a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Turkey, reports say.
Atsu, although alive, has sustained injuries to his right foot and exhibited difficulty breathing and has been transported to a hospital for treatment.
The Turkish city of Hatay, where Atsu’s club is located, was one of the areas hardest hit by the disaster. Along with Atsu, the club’s sporting director, Taner Savut, and an interpreter were also trapped in the earthquake. There is yet to be news on their recovery.
A post on Newcastle’s Twitter account said: “Praying for some positive news, @ChristianAtsu20.” Atsu had just played a successful match, scoring the winning goal against Kasimpasa on Sunday.
Nyame Dua Apartment’s lovely 3-bedroom apartments come with many standard features; a master bedroom with its own toilet, two other rooms that can be used for the family, study room or/and guest room.
This distinguished facility which is worth owning also has ample space for the average family as all apartments come with fitted kitchen ceiling fans, fibre optics, individual electric and water meters. There is also abundance of natural light that comes through the balcony and windows, providing rays of vibrant energy all day.
It is the dream of everyone to own a house that does not just provide comfort, but also one that reflects good vibes and offers house owners their desired peace of mind, and that’s exactly what Nyame Dua Apartments is about; homes built to save you time and money.
Located in a serene environment, this gated community offers 24 hours private security, various infra-structure and amenities: allotted car park, street lights, underground water drainage, water back up, electricity back up, convenience store, swimming pool, tennis court, basketball court, clubhouse, cafeteria, etc…,practical, simple and modern design.
Nyame Dua Apartments is perfect for people who wish to live more efficiently/economically and an ideal opportunity to invest. It is the only luxury apartment in Ghana with affordability. You can reach Nyame Dua on 055 143 5555 or 055 143 8888 and for help in securing your unit.
About Nyame Dua Apartments
With soaring house and land prices, apartments seem to be the future of real estate in Ghana. Nyame Dua Apartments give prospective owners an affordable alternative to traditional housing units.
Being the first master-planned community in Ghana, Nyame Dua Apartments is an integrated community with various infrastructure and amenities, which stands in the heart of all major developments in Tema. It is strategically located a short drive from the Tema Motorway Roundabout towards Community 25.
The plush estate is designed to keep the cost of living low and built to withstand earthquakes. It is coined the ‘Future of Living.’ It is also focusing on and promoting Eco-Friendly Living.
Édouard Mendy has reportedly snubbed a six-year contract offer from Chelsea because he feels he deserves wage parity with Kepa
WHAT HAPPENED? According to the Sun, the Blues have offered the Senegal goalkeeper a new long-term deal in a bid to keep him at the club, two-and-a-half years before his current contract ends, but he has rejected it because he feels the club is not showing him enough ‘respect’ over wages.
The 30-year-old reportedly earns £100,000 a week but he wants a sum close to his rival Kepa Arrizabalaga who is said to be earning almost double.
WHAT DID THEY SAY? “Edouard is back at Chelsea and he is ready to play,” a club insider told the Sun. “But there is a feeling that the contract situation is just going nowhere.”
“Edouard has won some huge trophies for Chelsea, but there is a sense that he is not being shown enough respect by the club over a new deal.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Mendy has been at Chelsea since the summer of 2020 when he joined from Ligue 1 side Rennes, establishing himself as the club’s undisputed No1, as they won the 2020-21 Champions League and Club World Cup.
He was voted Fifa’s Best Goalkeeper of 2021 before winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal in Cameroon in February this year.
Mendy started in goal for Chelsea this season but lost his place to Kepa after suffering an injury in September and only regained it at the end of October after the latter got injured during the Blues’ 4-1 Premier League loss to Brighton and Hove Albion.
Mendy, who featured in all four matches for Senegal in their run to the World Cup round of 16, is reportedly a transfer target of Serie A champions AC Milan as well as French sides Monaco and Nice.
WHAT’S NEXT? With Mendy back to Chelsea training and Kepa fit, it will be interesting to see who coach Graham Potter selects in goal for their Premier League match against Bournemouth on December 27.
Source: goal.com
Goalkeeper Andre Onana has announced his retirement from the Cameroon national team, a couple of weeks after falling out with coach Rigobert Song.
WHAT HAPPENED: Onana fell out with Cameroon coach Rigobert Song during the World Cup in Qatar. The shot-stopper was sent home with Song saying he was forced to take the decision owing to a disciplinary breach by the Inter Milan custodian.
Onana played in the 1-0 loss against Switzerland with Devis Epassy playing in a 3-3 draw against Serbia and in the famous 1-0 win over Brazil.
The former Ajax keeper was unhappy with what transpired in Qatar and went on to allege he was misunderstood. Onana has now said his journey with the Indomitable Lions is over but will continue supporting the national team.
WHAT HE SAID: “Every story, however beautiful it may be, always has its end. And my story with the Cameroon national team has reached this point. Players come and go, but Cameroon always comes before any person or player,” Onana said in a statement.
“Cameroon will always remain the same as my love for the national team shirt and for our people who have always supported us regardless of the difficulties.
“My feelings have not changed. My Cameroonian heart will keep beating and wherever it goes it will fight to always raise the flag of Cameroon as high as possible.
“I will continue to support Cameroon as a fan, just like 27 million Cameroonians do at every game. I can only thank all those who trusted me and believed that I could contribute to the team.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Onana went through the Cameroon youth set-up having started his career at the Samuel Eto’o Academy.
He was in the Cameroon squad that played France in a friendly match in May 2016 but his debut came four months later in a 2-1 international friendly match win over Gabon.
The 26-year-old was part of the 2021 Cameroon squad that finished third in the Africa Cup of Nations after beating Burkina Faso in the bronze medal match.
He was expected to play a vital role for Cameroon at the Word Cup but fell out with head coach Song.
WHAT NEXT: At just 26 years of age, Onana has significant time left in his playing career. He will be focusing on his club duties but might change his mind and come out of retirement if Cameroon change the coach as seen with other players like Morocco’s Hakim Ziyech.
Source: goal.com
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has increased mobile money transaction and wallet limits.
The Bank in a statement issued on December 22, 2022, noted the review is part of measures to facilitate more efficient payments, encourage the seamless transition to a cash-lite society as well as promote the use of non-cash models of payments.
According to the release, “the aggregate monthly transaction limits will however remain unchanged.”
Find below the new review:
Daily transaction
Maximum account balance limit and monthly transaction limits are attached below:
Source: MyJoyOnline.com
The recently re-elected National Youth Organizer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), George Opare Addo, following his victory last Saturday, has met former president John Dramani Mahama in Accra.
According to him, he Mahama to mainly discuss pertinent issues of shared interest.
George Opare Addo, popularly known as Pablo, polled 533 of the total 1,041 valid votes cast to beat his sole challenger, Yaw Brogya Genfi, who polled 508 votes.
This followed elections held at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) on Saturday, December 10.
The election of the 10th Youth & Women’s Conference of the largest opposition party was held up for long hours after disagreement with the album.
I called on @JDMahama today to discuss issues of mutual interest. President Mahama is committed to ensuring the Youth play a pivotal role in the campaign to Victory 2024. The Youth Wing of the NDC is ready to make this happen, we will not fail! #YouthPower#GreenArmy pic.twitter.com/lFMElgS7u9
— Pablo ✌️ (@georgeoaddo) December 14, 2022
Shehu Sani, a former Nigerian senator, has responded to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo‘s recent advice to African leaders to refrain from begging from the West.
Sani compared Ghana’s current economic engagements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to Akufo-Addo’s advice and pointed out what he believes is hypocrisy on President Akufo-Addo’s part.
In a December 14 tweet, he concluded that Akufo-Addo was using one hand to accept IMF assistance while cautioning his peers.
“Ghana’s President is collecting IMF loan with the right hand and using the left hand to warn African Governments against begging the west for money,” the tweet read.
Akufo-Addo called on African countries to cut off begging from the West to earn global respect and move away from old-aged perceptions of the continent.
Delivering remarks at the ongoing US-Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington DC, President Akufo-Addo extolled Africa’s skills and manpower which he believes can bring significant change when well harnessed.
Ghana’s President is collecting IMF loan with the right hand and using the left hand to warn African Governments against begging the west for money.
— Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) December 14, 2022
“If we stop being beggars and spend African money inside the continent, Africa will not need to ask for respect from anyone, we will get the respect we deserve. If we make it prosperous as it should be, respect will follow,” President Akufo-Addo is quoted by BBC.com.
“Africans are more resilient outside the continent than inside. We must bear in mind that to the outside world, [there’s] nothing like Nigeria, Ghana or Kenya, we are simply Africans. Our destiny as people depends on each other,” he added.
President Akufo-Addo’s remarks come after Ghana on December 13, 2022, secured a Staff-Level Agreement with the International Monetary Fund for US$3 billion under an Extended Credit Facility (ECF).
Source: Ghanaweb
The International Day for Tolerance was started by the UN General Assembly, with the goal of getting educational institutions and the general public to see tolerance as a staple of society. In the year 1995, on the 16th of November, UNESCO created the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance as a way to define and provide awareness of tolerance for any and all governing and participating bodies.
The 16th of November of every year has then been set aside to celebrate the International Day of Tolerance after the Year of Tolerance in 1995.
Tolerance can sound so easy, but it is a major underlying factor for the economic stance of a state.
We talk about diversity and inclusion and a green economy, all these are achievable when we begin to look at our world starting from our home, community and its people with tolerance.
The trouble some countries face, as well Ghana now, is with respect to a less or at least, insufficient tolerance when it comes to dealing with government contracts and projects. The new government succeeding an existed one becomes very intolerant or have little tolerance towards the unfinished good projects of the previous instead of building upon it or better still bringing on board more innovative ideas to finish up the unfinished. We cannot come to terms even as citizens to push ahead of our difference to a better tomorrow.
Our actions rather hit up the state with judgement debts and many other unexpected economic atrocities because of the absence of tolerance in our dealings and the ability to understand well the existing contracts before cancelling them.
Our country is troubled with people of different cultures and tribes who cannot live accepting one another yet, we still talk about racism with confidence, proclaiming how good and hospitable we are when relating to external people outside our borders.
We have a lot of little unresolved issues which tend to pile up to break our necks and end up as major issues.
We can only now, come back to the table to figure out how well tolerance can solve our problems.
Tolerance does not mean weak, it neither does not mean rage but it only allows us to respect each other’s opinions and not calling it wrong if it is workable. Let us continue to appreciate our differences of varying party colours, sense of tribe and house codes, yet still, let us accommodate one another and appreciate diversity from one community to the other. Also, with one and a common heartbeat, we must have the passion to attain a better Ghana today and the days to come.
We only discriminately choose wrong strategies over good ones if we believe one group has it all even when some other groups are well paid to support the same goal the “has it all group” supports. We will lose a half of us or even more and bury the right ideas that may have solved our unending issues.
As we celebrate the International Day of Tolerance today, 16th November 2022, it is time for us to begin to tap into the diversified minds and cultures we have as a people to get ahead of our problems. Let us not spend much to solve our problems with aspects the do not give us the right solutions to the problems we face.
Let us begin to adore tolerance in every area of our lives and works. Be tolerant not because you are weak, be tolerant the right way and not by closing the right eye on wrongdoings and be tolerant not only because you have an interest in an unfair transaction or dealings that will cost us so much as an individual or a state and offer us many years to recover.
Author: Dorothy Afi Ayivor Amelor
Two media personalities, Deloris Frimpong Manso (Delay) and Peace FM’s Kwasi Aboagye have engaged in a heated banter in some viral audio sighted online.
Shortly after Delay addressed the youth at a church in Kumasi, snippets of her speech were making rounds on social media and this earned her some admiration from a section of the public.
Some individuals who chanced upon the videos described her submission as profound.
But in a discussion on Peace FM’s Entertainment Review, the host, Mr. Kwasi Aboagye, emphasized his displeasure about why Delay was made the keynote speaker at the event.
Questioning the capacity in which the Delay TV host was made to speak, Kwasi Aboagye angrily expressed his abhorrence live on air.
“Her speech was about letting them know how they have arrived and not about letting them know about life and the process people have to go through, and I was like; why do we do this to ourselves? We pick just anybody to give speeches to young ones. Not everyone is wise, and I was so disappointed that the pastor did not see these things,” he fumed.
However, Deloris took a moment out of her drive time show to address Kwasi Aboagye’s claims.
In a sharp rebuttal, Delay unleashed attacks at the popular Peace FM presenter.
“Just recently after I went to address the youth in Kumasi, some people at a radio station had a whole discussion about me and one of them asked in what capacity was I called to speak. Herh Mr. man, I am not a miserable person. You should be study. I am not a small girl. Nineteen years ago I was listening to you on radio.
“So, if you are still in this profession and I am now your mate, don’t came and talk trash about me. You are not the only one with a microphone. Today if by God’s grace I have been lifted, you are asking why? It is my full-time job. Public speaking is my full-time job. Someone is asking who I am referring to. I am talking about the foolish Kwasi Aboagye who works with Peace FM.
“Whiles we are busily going about our daily jobs, people are busily envying and hating on us. If not for God, like some of us will be banished from this country. People are asking me to ignore you but I will respond to you because you are not my friend so take my name out of your mouth Mr. man. Whoever knows him should tell him to take my name out of his mouth,” she stated on Wontumi Radio.
Delay also recounted instances where Mr. Kwasi Aboagye failed to support her while she was struggling, adding that he has no right whatsoever to criticize her now that she is successful.
“Some of you refused to help us when we first started, so if by God’s grace other people have been able to come through for us and we have got to this point don’t try to stop us. Because no water can quench this fire,” she added.
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
Businessman Daniel McKorley’s name came in the alleged attempt to bribe ‘anti-Ofori-Atta’ NPP MPs to back down on their demand to seek the head of the finance minister and another regarding Ghana’s economic crisis.
Manasseh Azure Awuni, an investigative journalist, has stated categorically that, the man known to many as McDan, who is the founder, chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of the McDan Group of Companies, is not the wealthy businessman who met the MPs.
In a post on his Facebook timeline, he wrote “The corrupt businessman who carried cash to parliament to bribe NPP MPs is not McDan as some of you are speculating.”
The journalist who is very vocal on socio-economic issues of the country is on record to have demanded the identity of a businessman who reportedly moved in to negotiate the intra-party demand for Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, to be removed from office.
Background
It was the first time a group of MPs from the Majority Caucus have organised a press conference to demand the removal of one of their own – the finance minister and minister of state at the finance ministry – because they have become incompetent at the positions they occupied in government.
Since their ‘unprecedented’ press conference, the president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, stepped in to plead on behalf of his ministers but the MPs decided not to back down on their request so, the president asked the MPs to allow Ofori-Atta to conclude the ongoing IMF negotiations and also present the 2023 budget statement to Parliament before they revisit the issue again.
It, however, emerged on Tuesday, November 1, a wealthy businessman after the president’s intervention also decided to meet the ‘anti-Ofori-Atta’ MPs and try to convince them to back down on their demand.
In his attempt, this influential unknown businessman is alleged to have made an attempt to present a brown envelope full of money to the over 90 MPs who organised the press conference to demand the dismissal of Ken Ofori-Atta and Charles Adu Boahen.
“I’m told on authority that some businessman came here and tried to do something. I was told that he came here and tried to mediate in his own way what he thinks the problem is…he was repelled by the people and told he was told not to involve himself. So he went away,” Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu told Joy News in an interview.
Giving the details of their meeting with this influential businessman, Andy Appiah-Kubi, MP, Asante Akim North, told Joy FM in an interview monitored by GhanaWeb that:
“I am part of the group that organised the press conference in respect of the claim that the Finance Minister should be relieved of his position and we have been meeting on this subject matter, there was an occasion that a man approached us and wanted to mediate on behalf of the finance minister.
“We assured him that we did not have anything against the Finance Minister per se except that the public confidence in him has waned, that we have been approached by our constituents and, therefore, we thought that it was time for him to go so we will rebuild public confidence in the ministry and the government.
“The man came and talked to us about it and wanted us to turn around and [re]consider the decision…we listened to him, and he said that while he has come here to talk to us; we have given him the opportunity to address us and therefore he wants to leave something behind for us. Indeed he got somebody to bring it and we said sorry, we cannot take anything. It is not for the reason of money that we are taking this decision, we are motivated by our conscience and therefore, it is not about materialism and that it is where it ended. We returned the money to him and he took it away.”
When asked if it was an attempt to bribe the MPs, Appiah-Kubi responded “we don’t consider it as a bribe because there was nothing that we were doing to his advantage as a person so, that will not constitute a bribe. It was something that he was doing to try and get us to accommodate probably; that cannot qualify as a bribe.”
“Bribe is when you have taken something to do the things that you will otherwise not do. But he has no personal interest in the matter so why will he pay a bribe? Maybe he was trying to offer something by way of his association with us so, I won’t call it a bribe, in any case, it was not given and nobody was a beneficiary of his gift or offer,” he added.
The leader of the ‘anti-Ofori-Atta’ MPs giving clarity on who this said businessman met indicated categorically that the wealthy businessman did not meet the entire Majority caucus but the group that came out on the day to organise the press conference to demand the removal of Ken Ofori-Atta and Charles Adu Boahen.
This businessman further noted to the aggrieved MPs that “it is not in the interest of the business community to see this confusion in governance and therefore for the sake of the business community, and their businesses, let us ensure that there is peace and tranquillity in the political space. That is why he has come to talk to us.
“There was no need to investigate the group he represented neither was a need for us to investigate his personal commitment or interest in this matter; but I saw him as a statesman and somebody who has business interest in Ghana, who is interested in the tranquillity that existed within the leadership of the country.”
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
Edward Akufo-Addo, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo‘s brother has acknowledged using the presidential jet “two or three times” only together with the president.
Edward was testifying in an Accra High Court in a defamation case against Class Media Group, the Executive Director of the Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA), Mensah Thompson, and others.
Under cross-examination by the ASEPA boss‘ lawyer, Victor Adawudu, Edward confirmed, among other things, that he had only used the jet for internal travel with the president.
He explained that the trip was free of charge, that the president had invited him to go with him each time they boarded the plane, and that he saw nothing wrong with using it since his brother was going in the same direction nonetheless.
On October 31, Edward filed his case, alerting the court that he planned to rely on a six-page witness statement.
Background:
The ASEPA Executive Director alleged on the media outlet that Edward Akufo-Addo had used the presidential jet for a private trip to Abuja.
The plaintiff subsequently dragged Thompson and Class Media to court for defamation demanding GH¢10 million as damages.
In his suit, he described the claims as “utterly false and a product of the defendant’s imagination.”
It is not the only time Thompson has made such allegations; he is on record to have claimed that relatives of the president used the jet for a shopping trip to the United Kingdom.
He was arrested for the publication of fake news after the military denied that the jet had been used for the said trip. He later apologized for the claim stating that his source had misled him.
Other reliefs being sought:
Aside from the GHc10 million cedis in damages, Edward is seeking other reliefs from the court, among others:
“An apology and retraction of the words complained of particularly in paragraph 9 of the Statement of Claim with the same prominence as the impugned publication”.
And a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants, whether by themselves, their servants, agents or assigns, from repeating the same or other, similar words of and concerning the plaintiff.
Lastly, he is asking for costs inclusive of legal fees.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: President Joko Widodo has declared that this must be the country’s “last soccer tragedy”, and games have been suspended while the Indonesian football association carries out a full investigation. The current death toll stands at least 174.
AND WHAT’S MORE: Local police chief Nico Afinta said: “It had gotten anarchic. They started attacking officers, they damaged cars. We would like to convey that… not all of them were anarchic. Only about 3,000 who entered the pitch.” Two police officers also died in the disorder.
WHAT NEXT FOR LIGA 1? The remaining Liga 1 fixtures for the week have been postponed and Arema FC have been barred from hosting matches for the time being.
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) claims to have resolved the vending issues that customers were experiencing with the country’s prepaid metering system.
The power distribution company stated in a press statement on October 1 that clients who were having difficulty purchasing credits can now do so at the various vending points across the country.
“The Electricity Company of Ghana wishes to inform all stakeholders, especially our cherished customers on our prepayment metering system that the issue with the 3rd Party Vending Points has been resolved,” part of the statement read.
“Customers can now purchase electricity credits from their nearest vending points, and all ECG District offices, including tomorrow Sunday, 2nd October 2022, from 9.00 am – 4.00 pm,” they added.
Prior to this, customers had experienced disruptions in the purchase of electricity credits in some parts of the country.
The ECG stated on Wednesday 28th September 2022, that the anomaly was a consequence of some technical issues. These technical challenges according to the ECG has since been remedied.
Volta, Takoradi, Tema, Cape Coast, Kasoa, Winneba, Swedru, Koforidua, Nkawkaw, and Tafo customers were been affected.
“Affected customers should please note that our engineers are working assiduously to correct the anomaly and restore the system to normalcy.”
However, as of Saturday morning, some customers were complaining on social media noting that they were still having challenges purchasing electricity credits.
Meanwhile, ECG promised later in the day that the issue had not only been fixed but they are working to also resolve the challenges with the ECG app.
“ECG once again assures our cherished customers that we are working assiduously to restore the Power App for an improved and seamless service provision,” they added.
The French government has acknowledged violent attacks on its embassy in the Burkinabe capital of Ouagadougou on Saturday, October 1, 2022.
Several videos published on social media showed citizens attempting to enter the Embassy, while others started bonfires outside the premises.
A few hundred people are seen protesting outside the buildings, a day after Captain Ibrahim Traore’s group announced the overthrow of Lt. Col. Sandaogo Damiba.
The French Foreign Ministry has been very busy in the last few hours, denying any coordination with the overthrown Damiba to wage a counter-attack on the new junta.
According to an October 1, 2022 statement read on national TV, RTB, a member of the new junta, Sous-Lieutenant Jean-Baptiste Kabre, said the former leader of the MPSR – name of the junta, had refused to leave power quietly.
Kabre alleged that Sandaogo Damiba was planning a “counter-offensive” and claimed further that he’s doing this from a French base.
French embassy in Burkina Faso 🇧🇫 strongly denies allegations that Burkinabe authorities would be protected or safe guarded by the French army.
France 🇫🇷 has NOTHING to do with the events of the past hours in 🇧🇫 https://t.co/cghfSeq7Wm— Anne Sophie (Akosua) Avé (@annesophieave) October 1, 2022
In an October 1, 2022 statement from the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, France denied the allegation and said it was not hosting Damiba in any of its facilities.
“France formally denies any involvement in the events underway since yesterday in Burkina Faso.
“The camp where the French forces are located has never hosted Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, nor has our embassy,” the statement read.
Read the complete statement below:
STATEMENT BY THE SPOKESPERSON OF THE MINISTRY FOR EUROPE AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Burkina Faso
October 1, 2022
France formally denies any involvement in the events underway since yesterday in Burkina Faso.
The camp where the French forces are located has never hosted Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, nor has our embassy.
PRESS SERVICE
Spokesperson Sub-Directorate
New junta leader Captain Traore’s announced the takeover of executive power and deposition of Damiba, barely 10 months after the later seized power from democratically elected Christian Roch Marc Kabore.
The junta dissolved the government and the transitional national assembly as well as imposed a curfew and closed all the country’s borders.
The overthrow was premised on continued deterioration of the insecurity situation even as terrorists continue to launch deadly raids on security forces and the local population.
In the midst of worsening economic circumstances and the government’s plan to secure IMF support, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is hoping for a “Ghana miracle” to revive the economy.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday about the state of the Ghanaian economy, the Minister stated that “the sanctity and the well-functioning of the financial system are sacrosanct” and that the only way for the economy to recover is with the help and confidence of all Ghanaians.
In his speech, Ken Ofori-Atta was positive and compared the country’s economic revival to the great Celtic Miracle in Ireland in the 1980s, when Ireland was one of Europe’s poorest economies and was dubbed the “beggars of Europe.”
However, Ireland’s economic situation improved in the 1990s, and the country’s economy experienced impressive average growth rates.
This is the miracle Ken Ofori-Atta is hoping will materialise in the country’s economy.
“The sanctity and the well-functioning of the financial system are sacrosanct and we need the support and trust of all Ghanaians to deliver this. Let us join hands to get this done.
“The great Celtic Miracle in Ireland in the 1980s was the result of such collaborations, especially with Labour and we shall also be blessed with the Ghana Miracle,” the Minister said.
Meanwhile, the government in a bid to revive the economy has announced a 5-Member Committee consisting of prominent financial services professionals to lead extensive stakeholder engagements across all the key segments of the financial sector – banking, asset, management, pensions, and insurance – as part of moves to protect the financial system.
This is coming following the probability that the nation may undertake a debt restructuring programme.
The announcement of the Committee Members is expected to be made in the coming days.
According to Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, the committee will immediately get to work to engage key stakeholders in the financial services sector, additional to ongoing engagements with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), social partners (labour unions, employers, and FBOs), academia, industry professionals, and the leadership of Parliament.
This, he says, is government ambition to protect the financial sector.
Nigeria’s visit to Algeria will provide a good test for the Super Eagles with Ghana vs Brazil the glamour fixture involving a team from the continent.
Nigeria’s clash with Algeria in Oran headlines a number of high-profile friendly matches involving African countries during this international break.
The Super Eagles will visit Algeria next Tuesday as Jose Peseiro tests a host of players but that will come after Ghana have faced Brazil in France on Friday.
The Black Stars will use the match to prepare for the 2022 World Cup with the Samba Boys set to stretch them to the limit.
Looking at the facts and numbers ahead of Nigeria and South Africa‘s opening match at the 2002 Women Africa Cup of Nations
African champions Senegal have a date with Bolivia on Saturday while South Africa host Sierra Leone in another friendly encounter the same day.
Nigeria coach Peseiro will seek to make it three straight wins when the Super Eagles take on the Desert Foxes in Oran next Tuesday.
Nigeria beat Sierra Leone 2-1 before thrashing Sao Tome and Principe 10-0 in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in June but the 2019 African champions will provide a different kind of test.
Nigeria and Algeria have faced each other six times with the Super Eagles winning thrice while the North Africans have managed one victory, the win coming during the 2019 Afcon semi-final when they won 2-1 en route to the final.
Both teams missed out on a ticket to the World Cup in disappointing fashion during the playoffs, Nigeria falling to Ghana on away goals, while Algeria were edged out courtesy of a last-minute goal by Cameroon, having looked like they had sealed their ticket to Qatar.
For Peseiro, it will also be an opportunity to test a host of new players, especially upfront, where captain Ahmed Musa, Samuel Chukwueze and Emmanuel Dennis were the latest to withdraw from the squad due to injuries, joining long-term injury absentees Victor Osimhen and Umar Sadiq.
That leaves Lorient striker Terem Moffi, Cremonese’s Cyriel Dessers, Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi and Kelechi Iheanacho of Leicester City to battle it out for a starting berth.
The glamour tie involving an African team, the five-time world champions will certainly provide Ghana with the one of their biggest tests in recent years during Friday’s meeting at the Stade Oceane in Le Havre, France.
Brazil lined up with Thiago Silva and Marquinhos at centre-back with Alex Telles (left-back) and Eder Militao (left-back) as Casemiro and Lucas Paqueta were paired in central midfield while Neymar played just behind Richarlison as Vinicius Jr and Raphinha occupied the wings during Tuesday’s training.
That might give Ghana coach Otto Addo a hint on how to line up or where to exploit as he prepares his charges for the high-profile encounter. Ghana have conceded five goals without reply in their three meetings with Brazil, losing 1-0 twice in 2007 and 2011 as well as 3-0 defeat in the 2006 World Cup at the Round of 16.
While history favours the South Americans, Addo has a number of experienced players in his squad who can hold their own against the Selecao such as Thomas Partey, Daniel Amartey and the in-form Mohammed Kudus.
He was also recently boosted by the availability of Inaki Williams, Tariq Lamptey and Mohammed Salisu who switched allegiance to the Black Stars in June.
Ghana have Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea in their World Cup group and after falling to Japan and Chile in their last two matches, Brazil should give them a taste of what to expect in Qatar.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos can get some of his critics off his back with a victory against Sierra Leone in a friendly match at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.
Broos was criticised for his selection and tactics following South Africa’s 2-1 loss to Morocco in the 2023 Afcon qualifiers in June and had to apologise for saying the PSL’s lack of ‘quality’ was the reason for the national team’s struggles.
The Belgian coach has included Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Themba Zwane into the squad that has several newcomers, among them Melusi Buthelezi (TS Galaxy), Sibongiseni Mthethwa (Stellenbosch FC), Luke le Roux (Varbergs), Cyprus-based Mihlali Mayambela and Orlando Pirates marksman Zakhele Lepasa.
Zwane was among the players Broos was criticised for not including and he will hope the 33-year-old can replicate his good club form with national team against the Leone Stars, whose last game was a 2-1 loss to Nigeria three months ago.
France will also host another top African nation this weekend as Senegal take on Bolivia at the Stade de la Source in Orleans, using the match as a tune up for the World Cup.
Aliou Cisse’s men will face the Netherlands, the hosts and Ecuador in Group A in Qatar and the tactician has called up five new players, including Noah Fadiga, the son of Khalilou Fadiga, and Nottingham Forest defender Moussa Niakhate, as he looks to shake things up.
Eight players from the victorious 2021 Afcon squad are missing due to injuries or a lack of game time with right-back Bouna Sarr out of the World Cup with a knee injury and left-back Saliou Ciss without a club. Spartak Moscow forward Keita Balde has also been handed a three-month ban due to a doping violation.
However, with Chelsea pair Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly, Everton’s Idrissa Gueye, Crystal Palace midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, Watford’s Imaila Sarr and Bayern Munich superstar Sadio Mane available, the Teranga Lions have enough to cause Bolivia problems.
Mane became his country’s top scorer with 33 goals when he scored a hat-trick in the 3-1 win over Benin before his penalty earned a 1-0 over Rwanda in the Afcon qualifiers in June and despite his goal drought at Bayern, he is still the man to watch against the South Americans.
The Indomitable Lions are under pressure to improve following their lacklustre 1-0 win over Burundi in June’s 2023 Afcon qualifiers when Fecafoot boss Samuel Eto’o read the riot act to the players for taking their positions in the team for granted.
Rigobert Song’s men can start righting those wrongs against Uzbekistan in South Korea’s northern city of Goyang on Friday with Vincent Aboubakar set to captain the team.
Song has handed Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo his first call-up after he switched allegiance from France to Cameroon in August and he will likely make his debut against Uzbekistan.
Cameroon are in a race against time to be ready for their return to the World Cup after missing the 2018 edition and have Switzerland, Serbia and Brazil to contend with in their group in Qatar.
Another World Cup-bound side taking on a South American team in this window, the Atlas Lions are under new management after former Wydad Casablanca coach Walid Regragui replaced Vahid Halilhodzic this month.
Regragui’s first task was to repair strained relationships between players and the technical bench and that was seen from his selection of Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech, who had retired from international duty after falling out with Halilhodzic, and the inclusion Bayern Munich full-back Noussair Mazraoui.
Morocco will also have a number of youngsters for Friday’s friendly against Chile in Barcelona in what will be the first meeting between the two countries as the North Africans prepare for the global tournament in Qatar where they have Croatia, Belgium and Canada in their group.
Source: goal.com
Following the suspected murder of 22-year-old Georgina Asor Botchwey at Mankessim in the Central Region, new details about her death are coming in.
It has emerged that the pastor, Michael Darko Amponsah popularly known as Osofo Kofi who has been arrested by the police in connection with the murder is the deceased sister’s fiancé.
According to the family, Georgina left Yeji in the Bono East Region to attend an interview at the Ankarful Nursing Training College in Cape Coast.
They indicate that following her disappearance, the family was alerted that she was picked up by the sister’s fiancé after the interview.
Mr. Joseph Dade, an uncle to the late Georgina Asor Botchwey details that armed with this vital information, a soldier brother of the deceased traced the suspect to a village in the Central Region where he had taken refuge and was apprehended.
He disclosed that the suspect upon interrogation confessed to the crime and revealed that the deceased had been sold to a chief in the Central Region.
“Following her disappearance, our “brother-in-law” was arrested in connection with that and he confessed that she had been sold to a chief in the Central Region, Nana Clark, but when they went there she had been killed,” Asor’s uncle said.
Spiritual Twist
The mother of the deceased, Grace Andoh, has revealed that the family sought the help of a Kumasi-based pastor to help locate her.
She disclosed that the pastor mentioned the name of the suspect as the one behind her daughter’s disappearance, but they were sceptical until he confessed to the crime.
“Following the disappearance of my daughter, a pastor in Kumasi disclosed to me that my elder daughter’s fiancé is the one behind her disappearance. Initially, we did not want to believe it until he was arrested and he confessed to it,” the mother added.
Family in Shock
Grace Andoh also disclosed that the family is shocked by the sudden turn of events considering that the suspect is a son-in-law to be.
“The family is in shock, and we could hardly believe that our future son-in-law could do this to us. We least expected him to be behind this act”.
Demand for Money
GhanaWeb can confirm that the suspect demanded an amount of GHC15,000 from the family to perform some rituals to help find her, but the family refused to pay.
Knocking ceremony and missing money
Interestingly, it has emerged that when Michael Darko Amponsah visited the family in Yeji to perform the knocking ceremony two years ago, he complained of his missing GHC30,000 from his bag.
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
When her father died, Princess Elizabeth was on an official visit to Kenya. She arrived in Kenya as a princess but quickly returned home to become Queen.
She reigned for seven decades, from 1953 to 2022, making her the longest-serving British monarch. Her funeral was held on September 19, following her death on September 8.
Attendees came from all corners of the globe to pay their respects at the funeral service that was held at Westminster Abbey, which was followed by her burial later that day.
A 35-second video shared by Royal Correspondent Charlie Proctor showed the moment the crown was placed on the head of the 26-year-old queen in 1953.
The other segment of the video depicts the solemn moment on Monday when the Royal Crown was officially – and symbolically – taken from her.
1953: The first time the Crown was placed on Queen Elizabeth II’s head
2022: The Crown leaves Elizabeth II’s possession for the final time. pic.twitter.com/tPRrBfM5Nx
— Charlie Proctor (@MonarchyUK) September 19, 2022
It was after the funeral service at Westminster Abbey that an official removed the crown from her coffin and handed it over to another officer.
He captioned the video as follows: The Crown was first placed on Queen Elizabeth II’s head in 1953.
“”2022: The Crown leaves Elizabeth II’s possession for the final time.”
AGhanaian-born British soldier, Lieutenant Colonel Nana Kofi Twumasi-Ankrah, was among the military men who escorted Queen Elizabeth II’s cortège on its final journey from Westminster Abbey to St. George’s Chapel.
He was the only Black officer among a group of over a dozen who marched alongside the cortège after the official funeral on September 19, 2022.
Former UK High Commissioner to Ghana, Jon Benjamin, was full of praise for Twumasi-Ankrah, who served as the late monarch’s Personal Assistant – as her equerry.
“Proud to see Her Late Majesty’s equerry, Nana Kofi Twumasi-Ankrah, accompanying her coffin in today’s #sstatefuneral,” the diplomat tweeted on Monday.
Major Twumasi-Ankrah was appointed as Queen Elizabeth II’s equerry in 2017, making him the first black man to hold this position.
An equerry’s primary responsibility is to assist the monarch during official activities such as public visits and receptions at Buckingham Palace.
An equerry’s primary responsibility is to assist the monarch during official activities such as public visits and receptions at Buckingham Palace.
Twumasi-Ankrah supported Queen Elizabeth II at public events after Prince Phillip retired from public service.
Background
According to his military record, he is a member of the Household Cavalry and a veteran of the Afghan war.
He was born in Ghana in 1979 and moved to the United Kingdom with his parents when he was three years old, in 1982.
Twumasi-Ankrah attended Queen Mary University in London after finishing high school and then joined the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
He served in the military his entire life, having been commissioned by the Blues and Royals at the time. He was the first black African officer in the British Army’s Cavalry of the Household.
Major Twumasi-Ankrah said on camera for a documentary about Britain’s open and democratic society;
As a young child, watching her majesty the Queen’s birthday parade on television, I would have never imagined that one day I’d command the regiment which I’d fallen in love with.”
He added;
“From where I sit and from what I’ve seen in the UK, our cultures really do mix and intermingle, and if I’m not a good example of that I really don’t know what is.”
Lawmakers in the second Parliament of the Fourth Republic had the rare privilege of being addressed by Queen Elizabeth II, when she visited Ghana in 1999.
Her visit was only the second in the history of Ghana after the first in 1961 when she was hosted by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. On her second coming, Jerry John Rawlings was in charge as democratic president. JJ had barely a year left on his final four-year mandate when the Queen visited.
During her address to the Justice DF Annan-Parliament, the Queen’s reference to Rawlings having to leave power drew a response that caused her to pause for a while.
MPs cheered at her statement according to an ITN report sighted by GhanaWeb. The cheers started when she said: “Next year, your president who has led you through these momentous changes, will reach the end of his second term.”
After a brief cheer, she continued: “His successor is to be chosen freely and fairly by the people of Ghana.”
The Parliament at the time had 200 seats with the National Democratic Congress holding 133 seats as against the 61 by the New Patriotic Party, NPP. Two other parties held the remaining six seats.
Queen Elizabeth dies
The world’s longest serving leader, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, was pronounced dead on Thursday, September 8, 2022, via a statement from the royal family.
Born on April 21, 1926, the Queen, christened Elizabeth Alexandra Mary, immediately acceded the British throne on February 6, 1952, when her father, King George VI died.
She became queen at the age of 25 and remained on the throne for seven decades before her death.
Elizabeth II was Queen of the United Kingdom and Head of State for 14 other jurisdictions.
Queen Elizabeth’s eldest son Charles, 73, has been named successor and by that becomes king of the United Kingdom and the head of state of 14 other realms including Australia, Canada and New Zealand. His wife Camilla becomes Queen Consort.
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
Daddy Lumba, popularly known as DL, is the finest musician from Ghana and has announced the launch of his own radio station.
The station, known as DL FM, broadcasts on the frequency of 106.9.
Announcing his new project in a Facebook post on Wednesday, September 7, the legendary singer wrote: “Tune in to DLFM 106.9 new test transmission.”
His fanbase, known as the “Diehard Fans of Daddy Lumba”, and the general public have sent out congratulatory messages to him, with others pledging to tune in at all times.
Meanwhile, Daddy Lumba has provided social media users with a sneak view of his studios’ yellow and white decor.
Ghanaians honour the highlife artist, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, for his contributions to the genre as well as the creation of classic songs and albums.
Check out the photos below:
Akwasi Addo Alfred Kwarteng (born May 26, 1975), better known as Kwasi Kwarteng, is a British politician who, from 2021 to 2022, held the position of Secretary of State for business, energy, and industrial strategy.Â
Kwarteng was born in the London Borough of Waltham Forest as the only child of Ghanaian immigrants Alfred K. Kwarteng and Charlotte Boaitey-Kwarteng. His mother is a barrister, and his father works for the Commonwealth Secretariat as an economist. Â
He is a Conservative Party member who has served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Spelthorne in northern Surrey since 2010.
Following the resignation of Suella Braverman, Kwarteng was appointed Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union on November 16, 2018.Â
Kwarteng was then promoted to Minister of State for Business, Energy, and Clean Growth after Boris Johnson was elected Prime Minister in July 2019.
Kwarteng then attended Eton College as a King’s Scholar and was offered the renowned Newcastle Scholarship.
He received a first in both classics and history from Trinity College, Cambridge, and won the Browne Medal twice.
He was a member of the 1995 University Challenge-winning team (in the first series after the programme was revived by the BBC in 1994).
He was a member of the University Pitt Club at Cambridge and has since returned to visit.
He received a PhD in economic history from the University of Cambridge in 2000. He attended Harvard University on a Kennedy Scholarship.
Friends have described Kwarteng as being “intensely private.”
Prior to that, he was dating Amber Rudd, a former Conservative home secretary.
In December 2019, he wed City solicitor Harriet Edwards.
They welcomed a daughter on October 15, 2021.
He previously resided in Bayswater and bought a home in Greenwich in January 2022.
Kwarteng worked as a journalist for The Daily Telegraph and as a financial analyst for JPMorgan Chase and other investment firms before becoming a member of parliament.
In 2011, Bloomsbury published his book, Ghosts of Empire, exploring the legacy of the British Empire.
In 2011, he co-wrote Gridlock Nation with Jonathan Dupont, a book exploring the causes and solutions of traffic congestion in the United Kingdom.
Kwarteng, considered “a rising star on the right of the party,” ran for the Conservatives in the Brent East constituency in the 2005 general election.
He finished third, behind incumbent Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather (who had won the seat in a by-election in 2003) and Labour Party candidate Yasmin Qureshi.
In 200506, Kwarteng was the chairman of the Bow Group. The Times speculated in 2006 that he would become the first black Conservative cabinet minister.
In the 2008 London Assembly election, he was sixth on the list of Conservative candidates for the London Assembly, but he was not elected because the Conservatives won only three London-wide list seats.
Kwarteng was picked as the Conservative candidate for Spelthorne in a January 2010 open primary, after the incumbent Conservative MP, David Wilshire, became embroiled in controversy stemming from the Parliamentary expenses scandal and stated he would not seek re-election.
Kwarteng was elected with 22,261 votes cast (numerically more votes but a lower percentage of the vote than his predecessor). In October 2011, Kwarteng did not vote on the backbench EU Referendum Bill.
In 2013, Kwarteng angered Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne by deeming the Help to Buy housing programme inflationary.
War and Gold: A Five-Hundred-Year History of Empires, Adventures, and Debt was released in 2014. It is a history of capital and the enduring capacity of money and speculation to destroy societies.
This book has been rendered in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. Thatcher’s Trial: Six Months That Defined a Leader was his next book, published in 2015.
At the 2015 general election, Kwarteng was re-elected with a larger majority.
In the 2016 referendum, Kwarteng supported the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union.
Kwarteng was chosen to serve as Philip Hammond’s Parliamentary Private Secretary after the 2017 general election. Suella Braverman was succeeded as a minister in the Department for Exiting the EU by Kwarteng on November 16.
In the 2016 and 2019 contests for the leadership of the Conservative Party, Kwarteng was a prominent supporter of Boris Johnson.
On July 25, 2019, Kwarteng and Jo Johnson, the prime minister’s brother, were named as ministers of state at the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy following Johnson’s victory in the latter election.
On the same day, he received his Privy Council appointment.
After the Court of Session ruled that Boris Johnson’s prorogation of parliament was unlawful in September 2019, Kwarteng was criticised by former leader of the Liberal Democrats, Menzies Campbell, for saying on The Andrew Neil Show: “I’m not saying this, but, many people are saying that the judges are biassed.”
“Many people are concerned about the extent to which attorneys and judges are meddling in politics,” Kwarteng continued.
Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy Secretary (20212022)
He took over for Alok Sharma as Secretary of State for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy on January 8, 2021 as part of a smaller reorganisation.
After Paul Boateng, the first black Conservative and Chief Secretary to the Treasury, he was the second black man to have a position in the Cabinet.
By being promoted to the position of Secretary of State, he also made history by being the first black man to lead a government agency.
He has promised to reduce world emissions in order to halt climate change.
Kwarteng inaugurated a brand-new electric vehicle battery facility in Oxfordshire in May 2021.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has asked persons trading in counterfeit adulterated agrochemical products to withdraw them within two weeks or face the full rigorous of the law.
A swoop conducted by the EPA in collaboration with security agencies in some parts of the country has led to the confiscation of some adulterated products as well as closure of some retail outlets.
Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu, the Executive Director of EPA, at a maiden media briefing on frequently reported environmental concerns, including noise pollution, waste water disposal, indiscriminate burning, fake agro-chemicals, and measures being taken to address them, said traders in counterfeit agro products would not be tolerated .
 The prevalence of phony and illegal agrochemicals on the Ghanaian market is a source of worry to stakeholders in the agricultural sector, with CropLife Ghana warning that between 25 to 35 percent of imports into the country were fake or banned.
The Executive Director said the Agency in recent months had received many complaints on environmental issues, especially on noise and sub-standard agro-products, which a “carefulâ€â€¯investigation had proven to be true.
 “Indeed, there are substandard chemical products being sold on the market to unsuspected clients. We met with the leadership of dealers and importers of these products and we have agreed on specific activities to stop the canker,†he said.
 Mr Kokofu advised farmers to be vigilant, avoid buying low priced products and sourced from only listed licensed dealers to protect the health of consumers.
 Responding to a question on a testing laboratory, the Executive Director said the Agency had no laboratory at the ports to test agro-chemical products being imported into the country.
  To check influx from inland borders, he said, a collaborative initiative had begun with security agencies to train them on how to stop people who would make the attempt to smuggle such products.
 “It is wrong by law for agro-chemical products to come through any land borders into the country,†he said.
 Dr Samira Amellal, the Director-General of CropLife Africa Middle East, recently at a media engagement said illicit agro products posed harm to farmers, crops, and the environment as their contents were “unknown, untested and unregulated.â€
 “The negative impacts of counterfeit pesticides are many. For farmers, counterfeits can lead to loss of revenues due to decreases in crop yields or severe damage to crops. In low-income countries, this can worsen poverty and threaten food security for already vulnerable communities,â€â€¯she added.
 Ms. Esi Nerquaye-Tetteh, the Chief Programme Officer, Pollution Control at EPA, said complaints of noise pollution increased from 244 in 2019 to 271 in 2021.
 She said majority of the cases were recorded in the Greater Accra Region due to wrong siting of facilities, and high number of churches, mosques, restaurants, pub, and event centres.
 Ms Nerquaye-Tetteh said the Agency would work with relevant stakeholders to ensure proper siting of noise generating facilities, enhance compliance, conduct training and capacity building for Assemblies.
She urged the Assemblies to procure decibel meter, an instrument to enable them to assess noise or sound levels.
 She said excessive noise beyond a certain level of intensity and duration could adversely affect human health, including hearing loss, irritation, headache, increase in heart rate and high blood pressure, annoyance, decrease in employee productivity, among others.
Source: GNAÂ
The German government has so far committed a total of 37.8 million euros towards the development of the first utility-scale PV Plant in Ghana.
Mr Daniel Krull, the German Ambassador to Ghana, announced this during the commissioning of the photovoltaic Plant at Kaleo in the Nadowli-Kaleo District on Tuesday.
A Spanish Company, Elecnor S. A. built the Solar Plant at Kaleo for the Volta River Authority with funding from the German Development Bank (KfW) implementing the project.
Ambassador Krull said Germany remained a major bilateral provider of development cooperation funds for Ghana, especially in the energy sector with the current portfolio amounts to over 700 million euros.
He said after the completion of all sections of the PV Plant at Kaleo and Lawra, more than 30,000 people could be supplied with reliable green electricity.
The Ambassador said the photovoltaic Plant at Kaleo was because of the excellent cooperation, long-standing, great and trusting relationship between Ghana and German governments.
He said it is the hope and wish of the German government to see this trusted cooperation be extended into the field of green hydrogen and derivate production in Ghana.
The German Ambassador said the photovoltaic Plant was an important step toward achieving the ambitious goals of the renewable energy master plan of Ghana.
“The commissioning of the plant shows that the expansion of renewable energies in Ghana is technically and financially feasible in times of galloping energy costs.
“These renewables are the most promising source for an independent and climate-friendly and affordable energy supplyâ€, Mr Krull said.
Ambassador Krull said the power sector had made remarkable progress in recent years, as the government had provided access to electricity to a large part of the population thereby creating opportunities for the economic growth of the country.
He said the operations of the PV systems could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 30,000 tons of carbon dioxide each year, which translates to the emissions of 60,000 Ghanaians.
Source: GNA
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has raised the policy rate by 300 basis points (bp) to 22 per cent in a historic move meant to ease growing inflationary pressure and contain the heightened fall in the value of the cedi.
The central bank has also raised the primary reserve requirement of banks from 12 per cent to 15 per cent to help mop up liquidity and douse the price pressures.
The two policy decisions are part of a raft of measures that BoG took after an emergency Monetary Policy Committee meeting on Wednesday (August 17, 2022).
The seven-member committee also announced plans by the Bank to purchase all foreign exchange arising from the voluntary repatriation of export proceeds from mining, and oil and gas companies to help shore up forex liquidity.
BoG is betting on the measures to help arrest the cedi depreciation which has heightened in the face of growing micro fiscal challenges.
Beyond helping to slowdown inflation and the cedi depreciation, the increment in the policy rate and the reserve requirement of banks is expected to feed into interest rates, leading to higher lending costs for households and businesses.
Bank of Ghana Monetary Police Committee Press Release by The Independent Ghana on Scribd
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Source: Graphic.com.gh
Residents of the Yilo and Manya Krobo municipalities of the Eastern region may soon heave a sigh of relief, as the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has begun maintenance works on its substation in the area.
Hundreds of residents have been in the dark for almost 3 weeks due to a stand-off between some youth groups and the ECG.
The latest decision comes after series of meetings with all stakeholders including the ECG on ways to find an amicable solution to the current impasse.
Municipal Chief Executive for Lower Manya Krobo, Simon Tetteh said he is hopeful power will be restored in the shortest possible time.
“Now that the transformers are being repaired, we are highly expectant that power will be restored. We hope no other development forestalls this. It has not been easy these past weeks.â€
“We are just urging our people to remain calm because the matter is being resolved and very soon we will see an end to the blackouts we are experiencing.â€
There have been tensions between the resident and the ECG in recent times over the installation of prepaid metres.
There were reports suggesting that there were gunshots targeted at workers of ECG who were in the community to disconnect power from the main transformer which was serving a number of illegally connected homes in the area.
The development, which is fast becoming a matter of safety and security, has attracted the attention of all stakeholders who have since sought a speedy resolution to the issue.
Source: citinewsroom.comÂ
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A Russian court has sentenced US basketball star Brittney Griner to nine years in prison on drug charges.
Griner, 31, admitted possessing cannabis oil but told the court she made an “honest mistake”.
But the court convicted her of smuggling and possessing narcotics, and gave her close to the maximum sentence recommended by prosecutors.
Griner is a double Olympic gold medallist and is considered one of the best players in the world.
She was detained in February at an airport near Moscow when vape cartridges containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage. She had come to Russia to play club basketball during the US off-season.
Soon after, Russia invaded Ukraine and her case has become subject to high profile diplomacy between the US and Russia.
US President Joe Biden called the sentencing “unacceptable”.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: “Russia, and any country engaging in wrongful detention, represents a threat to the safety of everyone travelling, working, and living abroad.”
As Griner was being led out of the courtroom in handcuffs, Reuters news agency quoted her as saying: “I love my family.”
It is unclear how long she will actually spend behind bars, as the US and Russia have been discussing a potential prisoner swap that could involve the basketball player.
Reports in US media suggest imprisoned Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout – known as the Merchant of Death – could be transferred by Washington to the Russian authorities as part of the deal.
Griner’s defence team said they would appeal against Thursday’s verdict by the court in Khimki, near Moscow.
Reading the verdict, the presiding judge in Khimki said she took into account the fact that the American had already spent a considerable time in detention.
Earlier, Griner told the court after both sides presented closing arguments: “I made an honest mistake, and I hope in your ruling it does not end my life.”
“I did not conspire or plan to commit this crime,” she added.
Griner also said she had received neither an explanation of her rights nor access to a lawyer in the initial hours of her detention, and that she had to use a translation app on her phone to communicate.
Source: BBC
Businessman, Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom has issued an open letter to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Among other things, he touched on government’s ‘Ghana Beyond Aid’ agenda which he believes to be fading away and does not find expression in formal presentations such as the budget and speeches delivered by the president.
“To begin with, I support this vision for Ghana because it will promote self-reliance that would lead to greater prosperity of our citizens. I am a supporter of “Ghana Beyond Aid†without reservations,” Dr Nduom said.
“My concern is that this vision may become a mere slogan,” he opined.
Read the full letter below:
HE. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
Jubilee House
Accra
Dear Mr. President,
Ghana Beyond Aid: My Recommendations To Walk the Talk
“Ghana Beyond Aid†is a vision put forth by your Administration. You have articulated this forcefully and pushed it in presentations to Ghanaian citizens. You have also stood your ground on this with foreign leaders particularly those from the western divide of global governance. Many have hailed it and bought into it as a very necessary agenda.
Recently though, the vision seems to be fading and does not find expression in formal presentations such as the budget and your own speeches at home and abroad. It is time to light some fire under this vision and make it real.
To begin with, I support this vision for Ghana because it will promote self-reliance that would lead to greater prosperity of our citizens.
I am a supporter of “Ghana Beyond Aid†without reservations.
My concern is that this vision may become a mere slogan. Over the years, Ghanaians have heard “the private sector is the engine of growth†with no fuel to make the engine move for the benefit of the people. They have been presented with “Zero Tolerance for Corruption†and “Probity, Accountability, Transparency†and yet corruption is seen by citizens as the main barrier to their well-being. Many leaders, in business and politics have put out their versions of “Ghana First†visions yet there is no common agenda to work with to make it come alive.
When the late General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong championed the Ghanaian ownership of the commanding heights of the economy, it spawned concrete actions that are still delivering benefits to the state and its people. “Operation Feed Yourself†was and remains a popular policy from the Acheampong era.
Given where we are, the following are actions I highly recommend for you to consider implementing to push the “Ghana Beyond Aid†vision.
All infrastructure contracts signed by the state must have a minimum 25% of value go to an indigenous Ghanaian and his/her enterprise.
All Cocoa roads and projects funded by COCOBOD must be given to indigenous Ghanaians and their companies.
Ban completely, the importation of chocolate, soft drinks, fruit juices, fruits, poultry, and meats.
Ban the importation of rice and sugar.
Immediately ban the serving of any imported food or drink at all state functions.
School feeding programmes must only use locally produced food and drinks.
Take firm steps to ensure indigenous Ghanaian control (ownership) of the financial sector – banking, insurance, investment, pension, and others at all levels.
All professional services agreements – architectural, technology, financial etc., must have at least 25% indigenous Ghanaian participation.
All new and renewed concessions for gold, bauxite, oil and gas, diamond, timber must have a minimum of 25% indigenous Ghana ownership.
The digitalization agenda must be placed firmly, 100% in the hands of indigenous Ghanaians and their companies.
Give full rights and recognition to Ghanaians who by necessity have become citizens of other countries – to vote, be employed by the state and compete for elective offices.
Will this hurt? Initially, yes. But eventually, we will be a better country, one whose citizens can aspire to prosperity with confidence.
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the recommendations further.
Presented, Your Excellency, for your consideration.
Papa Kwesi Nduom.
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
President Akufo-Addo has relieved Sarah Adwoa Safo of her duties as the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection.
The Presidency announced Adwoa Safo’s dismissal in a press statement on Thursday, July 28, signed by the Communications Director, Eugene Arhin.
Per the statement “In accordance with Article 81(a) of the constitution, the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has revoked the appointment of Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo, Member of Parliament for Dome- Kwabenya, as Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, with immediate effect.”
The Presidency in its report failed to provide the reason behind Sarah Adwoa Safo’s dismissal.
However, Ghanaians have been calling for the head of the Dome Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo for some time now.
This is because Sarah Adwoa Safo has been unable to carry out her duties as substantive minister since her appointment.
She has been outside the country for close to a year addressing issues concerning her family.
It is therefore believed her absence is the reason for her dismissal.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Madam Cecelia Abena Dapaah, will carry out her duties as Caretaker Minister until such a time President Akufo-Addo appoints a substantive Minister, the statement added.
On the other hand, Sarah Adwoa Safo risks losing her position as the Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya.
She has failed to honour any of the two invitations from the Privileges Committee of Parliament to answer questions on why she broke the 15 sittings rule of the House.
On Thursday, the Majority and Minority groups in Parliament discussed the fate of the legislator.
At the end of the day, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin deferred the decision on the fate of Sarah Adwoa Safo.
The Speaker indicated that he will present a reasoned written ruling to the House at the next sitting.
Source: The Independent Ghana
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sacked the head of the country’s domestic security service and state prosecutor, citing hundreds of cases of alleged treason and collaboration with Russia, as Moscow appeared set to step up military operations.
Zelenskiy said more than 60 officials from the SBU security service and prosecutor’s office were working against Ukraine in Russian-occupied territories, and 651 treason and collaboration cases had been opened against law enforcement officials.
The sackings on Sunday of Ivan Bakanov, head of the security service, and Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova, who led efforts to prosecute Russian war crimes, and the sheer number of treason cases reveals the huge challenge of Russian infiltration as Kyiv battles Moscow in what it says is a fight for survival.
“Such an array of crimes against the foundations of the national security of the state … pose very serious questions to the relevant leaders,” Zelenskiy said. “Each of these questions will receive a proper answer.
In his nightly speech to the nation, Zelenskyy noted the recent arrest on suspicion of treason of the SBU’s former head overseeing the region of Crimea, the peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014 that Kyiv and the West still view as Ukrainian land.
Zelenskiy said he had fired the top security official at the start of the invasion, a decision he said had now been shown to be justified.
“Sufficient evidence has been collected to report this person on suspicion of treason. All his criminal activities are documented,” he said.
After failing to capture the capital Kyiv early in the invasion, Russian forces using a campaign of devastating bombing now control large swaths of Ukraine’s south and east, where pro-Russian separatists already control territory.
Zelenskiy said Russia had used more than 3,000 cruise missiles to date, and it was “impossible to count” the number of artillery and other strikes so far.
Dozens of relatives and local residents on Sunday attended the funeral of 4-year-old Liza Dmytrieva, one of 24 people killed in a Russian missile strike in the city of Vinnytsia last week.
Western deliveries of long-range arms are beginning to help Ukraine on the battlefield, with Kyiv citing a string of successful strikes carried out on 30 Russian logistics and ammunitions hubs, using several multiple launch rocket systems recently supplied by the West.
The strikes are causing havoc with Russian supply lines and have significantly reduced Russia’s offensive capability, according to Ukraine’s defence ministry.
Ukraine’s southern Operational Command reported that in the Kherson region, it had destroyed two Russian Pantsir missile systems, three strategic communication systems, one radar station, two ammunition depots, and 11 armoured and military vehicles on Sunday.
The Russian military are also using radio-electronic warfare to suppress satellite communication channels, the Ukrainian General Staff said in a statement early on Monday.
Russia has ordered military units to intensify operations to prevent Ukrainian strikes on areas held by Russia, according to Ukraine which on the weekend reported shelling along the frontline in what it said was preparation for a fresh assault.
Ukraine’s general staff said its forces had repelled Russian attacks in several towns in the Donetsk region.
“Fighting is currently ongoing near Hryhorivka near the administrative between Luhansk and Donetsk regions,” it said.
Overnight at least 10 explosions were reported in the southern city of Mykolaiv, but there was no information on casualties, while two people were killed and 10 wounded in Avdiivka and Novy Donbas, said Ukraine’s general staff, citing local officials.
Reuters could not immediately verify the reports.
The British defence ministry said on Sunday that Russia was reinforcing defences across areas it occupies in southern Ukraine after pressure from Ukrainian forces and pledges from Ukrainian leaders to drive Russia out. read more
Russian President Vladimir Putin launched his invasion on Feb. 24 calling it a “special military operation” to demilitarise its neighbour and rid it of dangerous nationalists.
Kyiv and the West say it was an imperialist land grab and attempt to reconquer a country that broke free of Moscow’s rule with the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991.
The biggest conflict in Europe since World War Two has killed more than 5,000 people, forced more than 6 million to flee Ukraine and left 8 million internally displaced, says the United Nations.
Ukraine and the West say Russian forces are targeting civilians and been involved in war crimes, charges Moscow rejects.
Source: Reuters
The Minority has shot down the approval of a 1 billion dollar syndicated loan at the committee meeting despite IMF advice that it should be approved to prevent the economy from grinding to a halt.
According to the Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, Ato Forson, their decision was due to the fact that some concerns including defects in the document raised by the minority with regards to the loan have not been addressed.
He insists that until the right things are done, the minority side will not approve the one billion dollar syndicated loan despite the IMF plea.
Speaking in an interview, he said, “…we met as a committee for us to consider and approve two tranches of loans. We have considered them in good fate, but we have lingering concerns. First of all, we believe that the document before us has some fundamental defects because what is in the memorandum to parliament and what is in the loan agreement have some difference in the sense that in one breath, we were called upon to approve a loan of 750 million dollars but what is in the agreement has two trenches, tranche A and tranche b, one is in dollars and one in euros. So that will mean that parliament would have to amend what was brought to us.â€
When asked why they ignored the advice of the IMF, he said they only take advice from foreign partners and not instructions.
“Parliament does not take instructions from our foreign partners, we take advice from them, advice can either be accepted or rejected it depends on the circumstances on the day,†Ato Forson added.
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is currently speaking at the Accra Business School on the progress of digitalisation in Ghana.
Source: The Independent Ghana
President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Isaac Owusu, has disclosed that the intended crunch meeting with the government on Tuesday, July 12, over the payment of the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), ended inconclusively.
According to Mr Isaac Owusu, the meeting ended abruptly after two striking unions, the Ghana National Association of Teachers and the National Association of Graduate Teachers, stormed out of the meeting over a disagreement with the government’s proposed terms for reconciliation.
 Mr Owusu, speaking to the media, noted that “what has happened today is very unfortunate. What we can say now is that our negotiations have come to an inconclusive end, and we are still on strike.”
Giving more insight on the turn of events, the President of the NAGRAT, Angel Carbonu, explained that the Government is demanding they end the strike before negotiation begins.
In his view, the government is not ready to negotiate and find a solution to the demands of striking teachers.
“They are indicating and asking us to call off our strike before negotiations begin,” so what it means is that the government side is not ready to continue negotiations unless the teachers’ unions call off their strike. They have held all organised labour hostage, and this is a betrayal of trust. The understanding we had is organised labour has been convened for us to find a solution to COLA, so since we are undesirable, we think before they even walk us out of the meeting, we are walking out of the meeting, “he explained.
Meanwhile, the government’s meeting with the aggrieved unions has been adjourned until further notice.
Speaking to the media, Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Bright Wereko-Brobbey, said the adjournment was due to the refusal of some labour unions to call off their strike before negotiations commence.
“We have had to adjourn the meeting because both parties; labour and government, think that we cannot do this while a party is on strike, so the agreement is that we are going off to talk to each other. They called off the strike, and we come again to meet,” he notedÂ
This is the second time negotiations between the teacher unions and the government have ended inconclusively.
Source: The Independent Ghana
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed the presence of two Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) cases in the Ashanti Region.
The highly infectious disease was suspected after two people in separate parts of the Ashanti Region met the case definition for an Acute Haemorrhagic Fever.
 Blood samples of the two suspected carriers of the virus were sent to the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, where initial tests pointed to the Marburg virus as the likely cause of the infections.Â
The blood samples have since been sent to the Institute Pasteur in Dakar, Senegal for further verification with the assistance of the World Health Organization (WHO).
According to GHS’ statement, “No new cases have been reported since the two samples were taken two weeks ago.”
In addition, the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service has identified and quarantined 34 people who came into contact with the two confirmed cases.Â
The Directorate, with the assistance of the Ghana Health Service, is conducting additional investigations into the cases through contact tracing.Â
GHS has advised the public to be on the lookout for any of the above symptoms, and anyone experiencing any of them should immediately seek medical attention.
â—ï¸PRESS RELEASEâ—ï¸
Ghana Records Suspected Marburg Virus Disease. pic.twitter.com/50ipeLmN2T
— Ghana Health Service Official (@_GHSofficial) July 7, 2022
About Marburg Virus
Marburg Virus Disease is a rare but severe haemorrhagic fever that affects both humans and non-human primates. It is caused by the Marburg virus. It is transmitted by infected persons or animals from direct contact with body fluids, blood and other discharges from the affected person/animal. The incubation period for the disease is two (2) to twenty-one (21) days. Treatment is symptomatic. There is currently no vaccine available.
High fever, severe headache, and general malaise are the initial symptoms of a sudden onset of illness. Within 7 days, many patients show severe signs of haemorrhage. Prior outbreaks saw fatality rates anywhere from 24% to 88%, depending on the virus type and how the outbreaks were handled.
Supportive care, including rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids and treatment of specific symptoms, improves survival despite the lack of vaccines or antiviral treatments approved for the virus. Blood products, immune therapies, and drug therapies are some of the potential treatments that are currently being researched and tested.
Seven people died in the first ever Marburg outbreak in Germany in 1967.
Extremely uncommon; the last major outbreak was in 2005 in Angola.
According to the World Health Organization, 2005’s outbreak in Angola was the deadliest ever.
Prospective cases may present will:
Preventative measures include:
Source: The Independent Ghana
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Sunday lifted economic and financial sanctions imposed on Mali.
The bloc has also reversed the closure of Mali’s borders and has urged regional envoys to return to that country.
The sanctions were lifted because the west African country’s military authorities had taken steps to establish an electoral code and monitoring mechanism, as well as adopted a new constitution, which would lead to elections in March 2024.
Commission President Jean Claude Kassi Brou told a Press conference in Accra after an ordinary session of ECOWAS leaders that the lifting of those sanctions, placed on Mali in January, takes immediate effect.
However, individual sanctions will remain in place and the country is still suspended from all activities on the block until constitutional order is restored.
On the situation in Burkina Faso, Kassi Brou told the media that the Junta had agreed to a 24-month period to return the country to democratic rule,starting July 1, 2022.
He said that ECOWAS Heads also removed the Economic and financial sanctions placed on the country.
The regional grouping however rejected a 36-month transition arrangement proposed by Guinea’s military authorities.
It asked the junta to submit a new timetable by the end of the month, and a new Mediator, former Beniniose President Yayi Bonyi, has been appointed to work with the country to ensure its delivers the new arrangement by the deadline.
The ECOWAS leaders decided to maintain the individual sanctions against members of the junta, amd the suspension of Guinea from the regional body.
Kassi Brou said failure on the part of the Guinean authorities to propose an acceptable transition arrangemt by the end of July will attract further economic and financial sanctions.
“Beyond that, economic sanctions will be imposed,” he said.
Source: GNA
The Loyal Patriots of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to reshuffle the government.
A statement signed by Mr Maxwell Agyei-Nyanor, Secretary; Mr Bernard Okyere Opoku, Chairman and Mr CDK Opooku, Public Relations Officer of the Group and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra on Monday said: “If the President can do this, it will reinforce the fact that the reserve bench is truly occupied with qualified players ready to step on the field to perform.”
“Every day in the streets, radio and television, there is an outcry about the President’s inability to crack the whip on the conduct of some of his appointees.
“The public utterances are so bad and hurting and some of us find it strange why the President is still defiantly maintaining and keeping some of his appointees in his government. He needs to reshuffle his ministers and other appointees who are sleeping on the job or get some of them out completely,” it said.
The statement said it was a common observation that some of the appointees were becoming complacent and seen to be acting with impunity in some situations.
The Group said the time was right for the introduction of fresh energy and ideas into the various Ministries to help the Party win the 2024 elections.
The statement commended the Government for various social interventions and said internal and external factors were responsible for the economic difficulties the country had been burdened with hence the need to go to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout.
“COVID-19 is a major economic erosion, which affected every country, especially emerging economies like Ghana and just as we were all breathing cool for a respite, then, came in Russia-Ukraine war. As icing on the cake, this needless war is putting a lot of strain on the world economy and unfortunately, nations such as Ghana, which are not strong enough economically are faced with serious difficulties.
The statement recognised that though the Government was working around the clock to find solutions using both home-grown policies and support from other international agencies such as the IMF, there were other internal factors like exchange rate, citizen’s desire for foreign-made goods and most importantly “non-performance†of some government appointees, who must be sacked.
Source: GNA
A 22-year-old man suspected of killing three people at a shopping centre in Denmark’s capital Copenhagen has been charged with murder.
Two Danish citizens, both aged 17, and a 47-year-old Russian citizen were killed in Sunday’s attack.
Police said the suspect had mental health issues and there is no indication of a terror motive.
He had a rifle and a knife and his shooting was random – “not motivated by gender or anything else” – they said.
The suspect appeared in front of a court in a blue T-shirt accompanied by three heavily armed officers, Danish media report.
The suspect’s lawyers refused to enter a plea for the accused while the media were present and the judge ordered the rest of the hearing to be behind closed doors. The judge also imposed a name ban on both the suspect and the victims.
The suspect will be remanded in a closed psychiatric ward for 24 days, authorities said.
Speaking to reporters earlier on Monday, police chief Soeren Thomassen said they believed the suspect – described as “an ethnic Dane” – was acting alone and was not helped by anyone else.
He added that the suspect was known “peripherally” to police.
Police are also investigating videos of a young man with weapons which have been circulating on social media since Sunday, and believe them to be authentic.
Four people were seriously wounded in the attack.
Two are Danish citizens – a 40-year-old woman and a 19-year-old woman. The other two are Swedes – a 50-year-old man and a 16-year-old woman.
One remains in critical condition, the chief physician at one of the hospitals treating some of the victims said, giving no further details.
Three others were hit by stray bullets, taking the total number of people shot to 10, police said.
Of the 10 shot, six were women and four were men, police inspector Dannie Rise told reporters. One of those shot was an Afghan national, she added.
The deadly attack began at Field’s shopping mall at around 17:35 (15:35 GMT) local time on Sunday, according to police reports.
The multi-storey shopping centre – one of the biggest in Denmark – is near a secondary school as well as a large student housing block, and is often full of young people.
Several of those present at the shopping centre spoke of how they fled the scene or hid in toilets, shops and storage rooms.
One of them, named Isabelle, told Danish media: “Suddenly we hear shots – 10 shots I think – and then we run through the mall and end up in a toilet, where we huddle together in this tiny toilet, where we are around 11 people.
“It’s really hot and we wait, and we are really scared. It’s been a terrible experience.”
Another eyewitness, Mikkel Suldrup, who is a chef at a restaurant in the shopping mall, told the BBC’s Jessica Parker: “One moment I was making pizzas, the next moment a woman ran in and told us a man had started shooting… it just went chaotic… People crying, people panicking.
“A lot of people sought refuge in our restaurant. We had some kids who got lost from their parents. It was really terrible,” he said. “I was scared of course. You had this feeling he could have come into our shop.”
Police arrested the suspect near the mall – 13 minutes after being alerted to the attack.
Talking about the attack’s aftermath, Mr Suldrup said: “I saw a dead man being carried out. It’s indescribable, it really is. It’s unbearable.”
“You hear about these things happening in other countries, USA mainly, but you just don’t think it happens here.”
Less than a mile from the shopping mall, British singer Harry Styles was due to perform at a 17,000-capacity venue where crowds had already gathered inside before the show was cancelled.
Fans – many in their teens – were escorted by police to underground stations where parents picked them up, Danish media report.
Praising the police’s response, concert-goer Jan Muller told the BBC: “They acted really quickly, organising transport for everyone.”
Danes shocked to the core
Adrienne Murray, BBC News Copenhagen
Dozens of heavily-armed officers have been standing guard outside the Field’s shopping centre all morning, while investigators have been filing in and out.
The steps to the main entrance remain cordoned off with tape, and police vehicles line the street outside.
This is a smart office district on the outskirts of Copenhagen, but today the surroundings are quiet.
At the weekend this area would have been particularly busy. The mall is a popular spot for families and young people, and at the time of the shooting thousands of music fans were making their way to the Royal Arena concert hall, to see Harry Styles perform.
For this small Nordic country, where gun violence is rare and mass shootings are almost unheard of, Sunday’s events are deeply shocking.
Only a couple of days earlier, the Tour de France had started in Copenhagen, and there had been a celebratory mood as spectators lined streets around the city.
Though it’s thought the suspect acted alone, police are keeping a visible presence across the capital.
Source:bbc.com
Six people have been shot dead at a 4 July Independence Day parade near the US city of Chicago, city officials say.
The event in the city of Highland Park was suddenly halted about 10 minutes after it began, when several shots were heard.
Police officials said they were still searching for a white man, aged 18-20, described as “armed and dangerous”.
City authorities said 24 people had also been hospitalised.
“This is an active incident,” officials said in an update posted to Highland Park’s website, advising those in the area to “shelter in place.”
Residents have been urged to stay at home and contact their loved ones to make sure they are safe.
Law enforcement officers, who are searching for the suspect, have secured a perimeter around Highland Park’s downtown area and recovered “evidence of a firearm,” the statement said.
At around 10:15 local (15:15 GMT) officials say the suspected shooter opened fire at the parade, which was scheduled to include floats, marching bands, and community entertainment as the city near Chicago celebrated Independence Day.
The suspect is believed to have fired at parade-goers from a nearby rooftop, police said.
Speaking at a press conference at 13:00 local time (18:00 GMT), local police spokesman Christopher Covelli said the suspected shooter was “armed and dangerous.”
He described him as a white male aged between 18 and 20 who appeared to have targeted the parade’s attendees at random.
“On a day that we came together to celebrate community and freedom, we’re instead mourning the tragic loss of life,” said city mayor Nancy Rotering.
Witnesses at the scene described the terrifying moment they heard multiple shots fired in quick succession.
Anand, who said he was less than 100m (328ft) from the shooter, told the BBC he initially thought he had heard a car backfiring before he saw others running and realised what was unfolding.
It was “the type of gun where it releases a lot of bullets in a very short amount of time. Incredibly loud. Then there’s complete silence,” he said.
Gun violence is very rare in this suburban area, he added: “I felt so safe here and this is very surreal. We’re hiding in a shelter now keeping safe, there’s people crying. It’s not a good feeling, at all.”
Speaking to local television station WGN, a witness called Michael said: “Immediately to the left of us he started shooting again and a woman went down.”
The mayor of Highland Park said the festival had been cancelled and asked people to avoid the downtown area.
Nearby suburbs have also gone on lockdown, with beaches evacuated, local parades and fireworks shows cancelled.
Gun violence in Chicago tends to rise over holiday weekends – as the hot weather sends people outdoors. In 2021, more than 100 people were shot and 17 killed over the Fourth of July weekend in the city of Chicago.
The shooting comes just a month after the deadly shootings in Uvalde, Texas and Buffalo, New York – and a week after the US Congress passed the first bipartisan legislation on guns in America.
Source:bbc.com
The Ghana National Association of Teachers, National Association of Graduate Teachers, Coalition of Concerned Teachers Ghana and the Teachers and Educational Workers Union have effective today, Monday, July 4, 2021, commenced a nationwide strike action.
The strike according to the leadership of the Teacher Unions, is a result of the failure of government to meet their demand for a 20% Cost of Living Allowance.
“We have been compelled under the current circumstances to publicly communicate to Ghanaians on our intention to go on strike having gone passed the June 30, 2022 deadline we gave government for the payment of Cost-of-Living-Allowance. Consequently, we have decided to embark on a Strike Action, effective today, Monday, July 4, 2022.
“By this, we are informing the general public that, we are withdrawing all our services in all the Pre-tertiary educational space. (Teaching & Non-Teaching Staff),†the group stated in a press release.
As outlined in their release, the teacher unions say their demand for COLA has been influenced by high inflation leading to incessant increment in prices of fuel, goods and services.
The strike action by the teacher unions has been confirmed to GhanaWeb by the General Secretary of GNAT, Thomas Tanko Musah.
The strike comes as a pile-on to the pressure on the government of Ghana which has been battling with a worsening economic crisis.
The government through the Ministry of Information on Friday, June 1, 2022, announced a decision to seek a bailout from the IMF to mitigate current economic challenges facing the country.
Read the full release by the teacher unions below:
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
President Akufo-Addo, his predecessor John Dramani Mahama and other dignitaries on Saturday were at the burial service of the late Mrs Emily Akuffo.
The former First Lady died on Friday, April 8, 2022 at the age of 88. Her death occurred a day after the death of former Second Lady, Ramatu Aliu Mahama.
He was executed at the Military Shooting Range in Teshie along with other senior military officers on June 26 that same year.
Mrs Emily Akuffo was the First Lady of Ghana during that period.
Following the execution of her husband, Mrs Akuffo spent the rest of her years at Akropong in the Eastern Region.
The octogenarian was a teacher by profession.
Below are more photos:
Source: MyJoyOnline.com
A member of the Mines and Energy Committee of Parliament, Edward Bawa, claims the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) is planning to hire a consultancy firm to undertake the decommissioning of the Saltpond Field.
This, he says, will cost the Corporation more than $5 million, although an in-house technical team constituted by the company is undertaking the same task for free.
According to him, the country could be facing yet another judgement debt if GNPC, under the leadership of its acting Managing Director, Opoku Ahweneeh Danquah, goes ahead to engage this new Project Management Consultant.
“GNPC contemplated the hiring of a Project Management Consultant for the decommissioning. Indeed, a tendering process was done and a consultancy firm was procured with approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA).
“However in a memo to the office of the former CEO of the Corporation, Dr K.K. Sarpong, the project team explained that a lot of the work had been carried out by the in-house project team and the remaining jobs can equally be executed in-house. This in-house delivery will save the Corporation more than $5 million.
“Indeed as we speak, about 70% of the work has been done by the in-house technical team made up of Alex Kwarteng (General Manager, Projects) and Albert Langdon-Nyewan (Deputy Manager, Reservoir). The selected company was, thus, prevailed upon to allow the GNPC to use in-house expertise to perform the task,†Edward Bawa said in a statement.
The Bongo legislator expressed shock at why Mr Ahweneeh Danquah who acted as Deputy CEO in charge of Technical Operations could not follow earlier agreements but chose to hire a different company.
He stressed that “this needless expenditure†will be blocked during a work programme hearing slated for Tuesday, July 5.
“The question is, what is the motivation for this line of action? One thing is certain GNPC is intending to spend $5 million on an activity that is being done by an in-house technical team.
“Besides, the original company that was procured for the Project Management Consultancy would definitely sue for procurement fraud and the country could be facing yet another judgement debt.
“At a time that the country is contemplating going to the International Monetary Fund for support, GNPC cannot afford to be wasteful,†Edward Bawa argued.
Source: MyJoyOnline.com Â