Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

The late President Atta Mills’ spirit is believed to have appeared to his aide, Koku Anyidoho, conveying an essential message for a Paramount Chief in Ghana.

In a dream, the late President allegedly instructed Koku Anyidoho to convey the message to Nana Akwasi Bosompra I, the Paramount Chief of the Goaso Traditional Area in the Ahafo Region.

As part of the Building Ghana Tour and seeking blessings for the 2024 election, John Mahama paid a courtesy call on Nana Akwasi Bosompra I at his Goaso Palace. According to the Paramount Chief, Koku Anyidoho reached out to him with a message from the Ghost of Atta Mills.

“Koku Anyidoho told me Atta Mills came to him in a dream and told him to deliver a message to me… It means the good works I was doing when he came here he didn’t forget. The food advice I gave him without fear he knows me.” He revealed.

During the visit, the Goasomanhene boldly addressed the government of Akufo-Addo, expressing concerns about neglect in terms of basic development needs.

Specifically, he lamented the state of bad roads in the area, emphasizing the critical role they play in transporting cocoa.

He noted that despite the importance of the roads, they have been neglected, leading to significant challenges for the community.

“Our road is critical to transporting cocoa, yet today our trees are being felled by Burkinabes exposing our houses to vagaries of the weather, what is our crime? When we complain too, we are being gagged,” he said as tears almost rolled down his cheeks.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Akuffo Dampare has been spotted purchasing roasted plantain from a roadside vendor.

The official photo, stamped by Reality Images, captured the IGP engaging with a young vendor, potentially unwittingly involved in the IGP’s PR stunt.

The vendor was seen smiling at the camera as the police chief walked away with his plantain, seemingly unaware of the cameraman.

For sometime now, the integrity and credibility of the IGP were brought into question following revelations by former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, during his testimony and in a leaked tape.

IGP Dampare initially denied any involvement in the recording and leak of the tape when his job was on the line.

Subsequently, it was revealed that one of Dampare’s subordinates, ASP Asante Antwi, allegedly recorded the tape under his instruction, and it was later edited and circulated publicly.

If the investigation report confirms that the IGP lied under oath, he may face charges of perjury, an indictable offense.

Additional secret tapes cited by MyNewsGh.com exposed further questionable dealings within Ghana’s police service, implicating the IGP in rewarding Daniel Bugri Naabu with a Police Boots contract.

The impact of the IGP’s current PR offensive on the parliamentary committee’s report and its recommendations remains uncertain.

Earlier, allegations surfaced that a group of Civil Society organizations had been influenced to obstruct the committee’s work following hits to the IGP’s reputation.

The Chairman of the Committee, Samuel Ataa-Akyea has asserted his focus on finalizing the report for the speaker.

In the 2024 budget statement, the government has earmarked GH¢11.6 billion to settle outstanding debts owed to contractors, with the objective of rejuvenating stalled projects across the nation.

This allocation reflects the government’s strategic emphasis on prioritizing the completion of existing projects and upholding fiscal discipline, especially as the country approaches an election year.

This was made known During a breakfast meeting organized by Deloitte Ghana, Deputy Minister of Finance Abena Osei-Asare underscored the government’s decision to refrain from securing new commercial loans in the upcoming year for project funding.

This decision is viewed as a proactive measure to maintain fiscal responsibility, particularly in light of concerns about the country’s existing unsustainable debt levels.

Osei-Asare assured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to avoiding budget overruns and resisting the temptation to make project promises driven by election-year dynamics.

“All we need from you is cooperation.We also do not want to be pressured unduly by people from all walks of life wanting one project or another to be undertaken in their constituency or area at this time”.

While acknowledging potential pressures, she affirmed that any consideration of securing loans for essential projects would involve a rigorous approval process.

The Deputy Minister also disclosed that state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have been directed to abstain from obtaining commercial loans for new projects.

This directive aligns with the overarching strategy to exercise prudence in financial management.

Notably, election years in Ghana have historically witnessed budget overruns as governments initiate new projects to secure electoral favor.

However, Osei-Asare’s assurances are intended to convey a commitment to fiscal discipline, although skepticism persists among some experts, including economist Professor Godfred Bokpin, who remains unconvinced given historical patterns of budgetary deviations in election years since 1992.

The allegations that the government is employing community mining schemes as a guise for illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, have been refuted by the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker.

This response comes in the wake of protests from residents in the Bosome Freho district concerning the government’s initiative to implement a community mining scheme in the area.

The scheme is part of several measures introduced by the government to combat the galamsey menace, specifically through the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme, aimed at providing alternative livelihoods for community members dependent on illegal mining.

George Mireku Duker addressed the allegations, asserting that certain individuals are protesting against the scheme to undermine the government’s anti-galamsey efforts. Speaking at the commissioning of a community mining scheme in the Ashanti Region, the Minister emphasized that the program is meticulously designed by the government and is unrelated to galamsey.

“This is a well thought-through program by the government. It has nothing to do with galamsey. The community mining scheme is not galamsey,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister urged mining communities to adhere to established procedures, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in the collective fight against illegal mining across various communities.

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has rebuked the administration of President Akufo-Addo, accusing it of mismanaging the economy.

While acknowledging challenges during the NDC’s tenure, Mr. Kwetey underscored that the current government inherited a robust foundation and should have capitalized on it.

In an interview with JoyNews on November 23, the NDC General Secretary expressed disappointment, expecting the government to apologize to Ghanaians for the current economic turmoil.

“I was expecting the Finance Minister, the Vice President Bawumia, the president if anything at all, they should be super remorseful, they should be penitent, they should constantly be pleading with the people of Ghana to forgive them for supervising this absolutely abysmal situation the country has been plunged into,” he added.

Mr. Kwetey highlighted that the economic challenges have dashed the hopes of Ghanaians, particularly those reliant on pensions, coupled with the government’s unfulfilled promises.

“But we are talking about people who feel this game is all about politics, and politics is about why all these things are happening because all these problems are just narrated.”

He stressed that the NPP government shouldn’t take pride in or boast about the adverse situation imposed on Ghanaians, attributing it to political gamesmanship.

“In spite of all the difficulties, we still had an economy that foreign investors had a lot of confidence in it. Despite the difficulty ‘dumsor’ brought, we [NDC] were finishing 2016 with an economy – even though our friends [NPP] who came into office created an impression of such a bad economy.

“In truth, it was an economy that anyone would be happy to inherit because the foundations were strong enough for you to be able to accelerate,” he said.

The Ghana National Fire Service has reported a 27.5% reduction in bushfires during the first ten months of 2023, according to Chief Fire Officer Julius A. Akunnor.

The announcement was made during the launch of the National Bush Fire Prevention Exercise in Djnakrom, Eastern Region.

The Ghana National Fire Service emphasized that annually, 75,000 hectares of vegetation and forest cover are destroyed by bushfires, resulting in a 3% loss to the country’s GDP.

Despite a positive reduction of 27.5% this year, CFO Julius A Kuunor stressed that bushfires still pose a threat to natural resources and food security, particularly for the 60% of the population engaged in agriculture.

“Bushfires pose a significant threat to our environment, destroying vast areas of vegetation,wildlife habitats, and farmlands. The consequences of these are far-reaching, affecting not only natural resources but also our food security. Ghana relies heavily on agriculture, as sixty percent of the population is involved in it. Any disruption has severe implications on the economy and well-being of our people”

The National launch, led by Director of Finance of Administration Doreen Payin Annan, called for collaborative efforts to continuously reduce bushfire incidents and enforce the Control and Prevention of Bushfires Act – 1990 (PNDCL 229).

“a nation that relies heavily on our forest and vegetation for food security, good weather conditions, foreign exchange earnings, health and general wellbeing, we have no choice but to jealously guard against anything that will jeopardize this great source of our survival. The devastating impact of bushfires on our environment, our homes, and our lives cannot be underestimated. These fires have tested our resilience in the past years in spite of the enormous efforts put in by the Ghana National Fire Service and Fire Volunteers and Stakeholders across the Regions. Thankfully this year, the prolonged rainy season has aided in recording less numbers”

“I will further urge the Ghana National Fire Service to give life to the Control and Prevention of bushfires Act-1990 (PNDCL 229). Defaulters of this law do not have any more excuses after 33 years of sensitization and education for which they cannot be held responsible for their actions if they go contrary to the law,’ she said.

The Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipal Chief Executive, Isaac Kwadwo Buabeng, suggested declaring the municipality a security zone due to the threat posed by illegal sand-winning activity.

Fire officers, volunteers, and students were awarded for their efforts, and this year’s theme was “60 years in existence: Bushfire prevention – key to sustaining natural resource and food security.” The Ghana Fire Service aims to reinforce educational efforts against bushfires and empower stakeholders to further reduce incidents.

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has refuted media claims suggesting the imminent collapse of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

The Authority responded to a publication titled “NHIS almost collapsing, stay off the NHI levy – Dormaahene says as he threatens legal action.”

The story reported Dormaahene, Oseadeyo Agyeman Badu II, expressing concern about the current state of the NHIS and advocating for the release of proceeds from the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) to bolster the Scheme’s functions.

‘While Management appreciates Osagyefo’s call for the government to give the Scheme the full amount of the NHIL collected, we would like to address the erroneous impression that the reportage created, suggesting that the Scheme is on the verge of collapse, because the NHIA is not receiving the full amount of the NHI levy, therefore depriving healthcare providers of their rightful claims.

While acknowledging Dormaahene’s plea for the government to allocate the full NHIL amount to the NHIA, the Authority strongly disapproves of the media narrative that implies an imminent collapse of the NHIS due to insufficient funds.

The NHIA highlights that, contrary to the narrative, it consistently pays healthcare facilities an average of One Hundred and Fifty Million Ghana Cedis (GHS150 Million) every Thirty (30) days, particularly over the past two years—a frequency unprecedented in the twenty-year history of the Scheme.

The NHIA encourages the media to accurately represent the situation in healthcare facilities and avoid creating a misleading impression. The statement emphasizes the NHIS’s crucial role in providing healthcare access to millions of Ghanaians and calls for responsible reporting.

“We however, strongly disapprove of the media narrative that seeks to create an impression of a collapsing NHIS. The NHIA has consistently paid healthcare facilities an average of One Hundred and Fifty Million Ghana Cedis (GHS150 Million) every Thirty (30) days especially over the past two years. A phenomenon that has not occurred this frequently, since the inception of the Scheme some twenty years ago.

“Evidence of monthly claims payment can be found on the website (www.nhis.gov.gh/payments). We wish to state unequivocally that the impression created by the said story is inaccurate and unfortunate.

“We hereby encourage the media to find out the real situation that exists in our healthcare facilities and not to paint a picture that is at a considerable distance from the truth. Millions of Ghanaians continue to depend on the NHIS to provide access to healthcare,” a statement issued by the Authority said.

In the first half of 2023, Ghana surpassed the number of countries it imported from compared to those it exported to, as outlined in the recent report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

The report offers a comprehensive insight into Ghana’s international trade, presenting crucial patterns and trends for data-informed decision-making and economic development support.

The GSS revealed that Ghana’s imports originated from a total of 191 unique countries, while exports were directed towards 144. Specifically, the report stated, “Ghana imported from 47 countries more than it exported to in the first half of 2023.”

“Ghana imported from 47 countries more than it exported to in the first half of 2023. Imports originated from a total of 191 unique countries, while exports were directed towards 144,” GSS released in its report.

Highlighting major exports, the GSS identified gold, mineral fuels, and oils as the leading commodities, constituting over half of exports in both 2022 (63.1%) and 2023 (64.0%).

Gold exports showed a 9.4 percentage point increase in the first half of 2023 compared to 2022.

“Gold and mineral fuels and oils were the leading exports in the first half of both years, representing more than half of exports in 2022 (63.1%) and 2023 (64.0%). The share of gold exports was 9.4 percentage points high in the first half of 2023 compared to 2022, while that of mineral fuels and oils exports was 8.5 percentage points lower. The share of mineral fuels and oils imports increased by 10.2 percentage points within the period while the share of all other commodities declined.”

A significant portion of Ghana’s exports, approximately one-third, was directed towards Europe.

The report noted a consistent export pattern across various continents, with a 6.4 percentage point increase in the share of imports from Europe.

The GSS reported a decrease in both imports and exports in the first half of 2023 compared to the corresponding period in 2022, with imports being US$1.1 billion lower and exports decreasing by US$1.7 billion.

Gold accounted for more than half of all exports to Europe, with Switzerland, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and India being the primary destinations, making up 99.5% of gold exports.

Furthermore, the United States of America, Canada, and China were highlighted as destinations for over two-thirds (68.3%) of all mineral fuels and oils exports. For cocoa beans and products, the Netherlands served as the main destination, accounting for 24.1% of all cocoa exports.

Ghana experienced a notable transformation in trade dynamics, transitioning from a trade deficit of GH₵2.3 billion in the first half of 2022 to a trade surplus of GH₵2.4 billion in the same period of 2023.

Both the value of exports and imports increased in the first half of 2023, indicating substantial growth compared to the corresponding period in 2022.

The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has issued a formal announcement indicating their commencement of an indefinite nationwide strike, scheduled to commence on Wednesday, November 29, 2023.

In a comprehensive statement released on November 22, the Mortuary workers elaborated on the basis for their decision, stating that despite concerted efforts to address their concerns, all attempts have proven futile, thus necessitating the impending strike.

This action comes as a culmination of persistent complaints by the Association regarding the challenging and unfavorable working conditions experienced by its members.

During a recent general meeting of MOWAG members, a unanimous decision was reached. The members collectively agreed that, given the lack of success in resolving their grievances through existing channels, it was imperative to serve notice of an indefinite nationwide strike. This decision aligns with the provisions outlined in Section 159 of Act 651 (2003).

The official position of MOWAG is articulated in the statement: “Our position is that all Mortuary Workers in Ghana shall lay down their tools starting on Wednesday, 29th November 2023, until all matters already in your domain are resolved.”

This move is a testament to the depth of the concerns expressed by mortuary workers in Ghana, emphasizing their determination to achieve tangible resolutions and improvements in their working conditions through the proposed industrial action.

“At the general meeting of members of MOWAG, it was agreed that since all avenues to resolve our grievances have proven futile, notice of indefinite nationwide strike be served as in Section 159 of Act,651(2003). Our position is that, all Mortuary Workers in Ghana shall lay down their tools starting on Wednesday, 29th November 2023, until all matters already in your domain are resolved.”

The Palestinian Ambassador to Ghana, Abdalfatah Ahmed Khalil Alsatarri, has alleged that Israel is impeding the freedom of the Palestinian people.

Speaking to the media, Mr Alsatarri contended that Israel shows no interest in allowing Palestinians to experience freedom.

He cited the absence of the Hamas organization before 1990, claiming that the emergence of such entities was a response to the desire for Palestinian independence.

“…Before 1990, there is nothing like Hamas. From 1990, nobody heard about Hamas… They don’t want the Palestinians to smell that freedom. They want to be free…” he stated during the interview.

Ambassador Abdalfatah Ahmed Khalil Alsatarri’s remarks shed light on the enduring and deeply rooted conflict in the region, reflecting diverse perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian issue.

Former PNC General Secretary, Atik Mohammed has expressed dissatisfaction with the public apology made by Peace FM presenter Kwami Sefa Kayi to Deputy Minister of Finance, Abena Osei-Asare, for her absence on the Kokrookoo morning show during a budget review session.

Atik Mohammed argued that Deputy Minister Osei-Asare should have personally explained the budget and taken responsibility for her absence.

“Last week, I was here with Kwame, a day after the budget was presented. The deputy minister was scheduled to be here, but she mentioned that due to Theresa Kufour’s funeral, she couldn’t make it to the review.

“Despite her initial presence, she informed us before the discussion could begin that she was involved in the funeral arrangements and had to leave for the venue.

“We discussed it, and later, I heard that Kwami Sefa Kayi apologized to her. However, I didn’t see the basis for such an apology. If the deputy minister herself cannot come forward and explain her own budget, then who do you expect to do the work for her?” he questioned

The controversy arose when Osei-Asare missed the scheduled budget review session on November 16, 2023, due to her attendance at the funeral of the late Theresa Kufuor. Sefa Kayi later apologized, citing miscommunication between the minister and the production team.

Atik Mohammed criticized the apology, emphasizing the importance of government officials actively participating in explaining crucial documents like the budget to the public.

Social has been buzzing after the Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) announced a nationwide strike set to commence on November 29, 2023, citing concerns over the conditions of service for its members.

In a letter addressed to relevant state agencies, MOWAG stated that the decision to embark on the strike stems from the failure to address their issues through various channels.

The announcement has prompted diverse reactions on social media. Some see the strike as reflective of the challenging working conditions faced by mortuary workers in Ghana, while others attribute it to the broader impact of the current economic situation on this group of workers.

Additionally, concerns have been raised about the potential repercussions of the strike on the preservation of bodies and the disruption of scheduled funerals.

Mortuary workers declare intention to strike from Wednesday 29th November 2023. #JoyNews pic.twitter.com/r8Sqk4V7r7

— Joy Prime (@JoyPrimeTV) November 23, 2023

postpone your death if you aren't a muslim

— jabir Umar (@jabirumar94) November 24, 2023

Nah the country truly hard cuz eii
The dead sef no go fi get small peace before going home??😭😭😭

— CJTW⚕️ (@_KECK_) November 23, 2023

squad themma passed folks go keep for fridge inside be that o.

— blaqweirdo.🖤🧢 (@mr_cobbold) November 23, 2023

Chale nowhere cool oo 😂😂

— Makavelli (@Makavelli_0) November 23, 2023

So to die sef no easy for this k3ntry😂😂🤣

— Ghost (@Hi_lySpiritual) November 23, 2023

Eii hmm Ghana dier one two bia strike

— Nyametease🇺🇸 (@Jerkee_Ryhmes) November 23, 2023

The legal counsel to President Akufo-Addo, Kow Essuman, has contested assertions that the previous John Dramani Mahama administration inherited the power crisis (dumsor).

In a series of posts on X, the president’s lawyer argues that the power crisis from 2012 to 2016 is a legacy associated with the John Mahama brand and cannot be blamed on previous administrations.

“This is Prez Mahama’s legacy: Mr. Dumsor, Mr. Yentie Obiaaa. These are the things @receiptsguy won’t provide because he is an NDC stooge and operative on this platform. But he forgets that he is not the sole custodian of receipts. We got them too!” he wrote in caption to a popular cartoon video from the dumsor era.

“This video has been reproduced because the NDC led by the Special Aide to Prez Mahama, @joyce_bawah, says Prez Mahama inherited dumsor,” he added.

Earlier, the President’s lawyer had rebutted a post by Joyce Bawah Mogtari, an aide to former President John Dramani Mahama, suggesting that they inherited a power crisis.

“Prez Mahama inherited dumsor? Ei! Ok, from who? Himself or Prof Mills? I am sure you don’t even remember why it was called dumsor. Prez Mahama, who said dumsor was an act of God and gave some explanation about some ship cutting cable lines, now says, through his Special Aide, that he inherited dumsor?” he questioned.

Prez Mahama inherited dumsor?

Ei!

Ok, from who? Himself or Prof Mills?

I am sure you don’t even remember why it was called dumsor. Prez Mahama, who said dumsor was an act of God and gave some explanation about some ship cutting cable lines, now says, through his Special… https://t.co/DMSYtNZkEU

— Kow Essuman (@kaessuman) November 23, 2023

Following John Dramani Mahama’s announcement about the potential implementation of a 24-hour economy policy by a new NDC government, a public debate has ensued regarding the practicality of such a proposal.

In a recent public address in the Northern Region, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President and NPP flagbearer, contested Mahama’s understanding of the 24-hour economy concept, asserting that it is already in practice within certain sectors of the economy.

Bawumia’s comments faced criticism from various quarters, including opposition party members, NDC, economists, and social commentators. Notable individuals expressing their disapproval of the vice president’s remarks include:

Sam Nartey George (MP for Ningo-Prampram): Sam George criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his critique of former President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-hour economy proposal.

In a post on X on Thursday, November 23, 2023, Sam George characterized Bawumia’s attack on Mahama as indicative of individuals with ‘mediocre minds.’ George highlighted the absence of outlined policies from the vice president aimed at improving Ghana’s economy, pointing out that Bawumia has chosen to criticize someone with a formulated plan for the country.

“When great minds are discussing and proposing transformational ideas for our economy, mediocre minds embark on a campaign attacking the great mind and his ideas. What a King Ahab type of mentality.”

University of Ghana Senior Lecturer, Prof Kobby Mensah, criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his remarks on the proposed ’24-hour economy’ policy. Mensah urged the vice president to focus on outlining the policies he envisions for transforming Ghana, rather than critiquing others’ proposals.

“Can someone tell Bawumia to stop complaining about someone’s 24hr economy and tell us what he’s got…” the academic wrote.

Dr. Clement Abas Apaak the Builsa South Member of Parliament, also Ranking member of the Education Committee, conveyed surprise and dissatisfaction with the vice president’s criticism of the policy.

He highlighted that Dr. Bawumia had benefited from such an economy during his educational and career journey, making him the least likely person to criticize it.

“How can DMB, who undertook his entire university education [1st, 2nd, 3rd degrees], lived and worked in countries with 24-Hour Economies before returning to Ghana say a proposal to make Ghana a 24-hour economy is bad?

“Bad idea? How can a proposal he knows has obvious transformational effects be bad for a nation like ours struggling to deal with unemployment. The overwhelming endorsement of JM’s 24-Hour Economy proposal and DMB’s dishonest reaction has exposed him as petty,” his post read.

Media personality and TV presenter Bridget Otoo joined those criticizing the vice president for his comments. In a post, she asserted that Dr. Bawumia lacks the capability to address economic issues and lacks a vision or policy of his own.

This ongoing public discourse underscores the exchange of viewpoints among political figures regarding economic policies and the vision for Ghana’s future.

“The liar in chief @MBawumia thinks it’s 2015/16 on his book-economist campaign. May I remind him that it’s 2023, he hasn’t been able to show that he’s capable of fixing anything in the economy. Instead of critiquing someone’s policy can he actually tell what his own “vision” is?” her post also read.

The Pharmacy Council in Ghana has closed down over 100 pharmaceutical shops between September and November due to illegal operations and the incorrect dispensing of medications.

The Council’s Deputy Registrar, Dr. Daniel Danquah, emphasized the institution’s commitment to enforcing regulations and assured ongoing measures against non-compliant pharmacies.

“About 10 companies have gone through the disciplinary procedure; others were closed. When they complied, it was opened at the regional level. So those reports don’t come to us directly.”

“But if you are trying to put together facilities that have been closed down within the year, it is a lot. We can have 100 closed down in two or three months,” the Deputy Registrar at the Pharmacy Council said.

Approximately 10 companies underwent disciplinary procedures, resulting in closures. Upon compliance, regional authorities oversaw the reopening process, and these reports did not directly reach the Council.

The intensified crackdown on illegal pharmacies follows the Council’s efforts in recent months.

In July, a pharmacy in the Ashanti Region was closed after a 5-year-old child’s death, attributed to receiving the wrong treatment at Life Dream Pharmacy in Kenyasi-Adwumam, Kwabre East Municipality.

The Council is actively enhancing the quality of pharmacy services in Ghana, introducing a new training program for pharmacists and working to strengthen the regulatory framework.

Dr. Danquah affirmed the Council’s commitment to collaborating with pharmacies for compliance with the law.

Interior Minister Ambrose Dery has unveiled the government’s strategy to enhance border patrol efforts, aiming to counteract potential terrorist infiltration into the country.

Heightened concerns about insecurity, fueled by escalating security threats in the Sahel and West African Sub-Region, have prompted calls for bolstered security measures, particularly along Ghana’s borders.

During a ceremony where new vehicles were handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service to enhance its operational capabilities, Minister Dery emphasized the pressing need for improved border management in response to the growing threats.

He acknowledged that border security has become a significant national security issue in the West Africa sub-region, including Ghana.

The Minister highlighted the rising sophistication of transnational crimes, including terrorism, as a reason to urgently address the management of the country’s borders.

Dery assured that the government is fully aware of the threats posed by undesirable elements, especially along the Northern frontiers, and is committed to supporting the Ghana Immigration Service in its efforts.

He mentioned recent initiatives such as the deployment of armored equipment across the country, emphasizing that the effectiveness of border patrol units should be guided by intelligence, executed by highly trained personnel, and complemented by modern technology to effectively address emerging threats to both border and national security.

“Border security has become a major national security concern within the West Africa sub-region, and Ghana is no exception. The sophistication and increasing levels of transnational crimes, including terrorism, call for urgent attention in the management of our borders. The government, being aware of the threats posed by these undesirable elements at the various borders, especially at our Northern frontiers, is doing everything to support this Service [Ghana Immigration Service].”

He stressed, “I’m sure recently you are aware that some armored equipment has been set up or around the country. But the safety of the border patrol unit should be intelligence-led with highly trained personnel and modern technology to address the emerging threats to border and national security.”

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, has offered clarification on the sale of the official residence of a sitting Clerk of Parliament.

Contrary to the information in Parliament’s press release on November 22, Jinapor revealed that the sale occurred in 2015, not 2019.

During the 2024 Budget debate, Mr. Jinapor disclosed that his investigation indicated the developer took possession of the land in 2019, not in 2015 as initially claimed by Parliament.

He clarified, “Not too long ago, it was said that the accommodation of the clerk of parliament was sold in 2019. Mr. Speaker, I want to submit to this house, the House of Records that my checks at the Lands Commission suggest that the clerk of parliament’s accommodation or residence was sold in 2015 and not 2019. Mr. Speaker, the then Minister of Works and Housing gave an offer to a private developer in 2015.”

“A lease was granted to the developer in 2015. These records are unimpeachable. It happened in 2015 and not 2019. It just so happened that the developer, having bought the land in 2015, hadn’t been given an offer letter in 2015, and took possession in 2019,” Mr. Jinapor clarified.

According to a statement from the Parliamentary Service, the official accommodation of a sitting Clerk of Parliament was purportedly sold in 2019 to a private developer.

However, Mr. Jinapor rejected these allegations, providing fresh details on the matter.

The Speaker of Parliament has also alleged that his official bungalow was sold to a private developer, a claim currently under investigation by the Lands Minister.

Chairman of the Food and Beverages Association, John Awuni, has criticized the government’s decision to ban the importation of certain staple foods, labeling it as insensitive.

Mr Awuni contends that the government should have conducted thorough due diligence to ensure the country can adequately produce the targeted food items before implementing such policies.

In an interview with JoyNews, he expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, “If the country is ready for this, we all will clap hands and be happy about that. As a technical person, I want to see that this country has built blocks towards this, but you don’t wake up one early morning and exercise this level of insensitivity on the people.”

Mr Awuni’s remarks follow the government’s initiative to restrict the importation of strategic products, including rice, fruit juices, tripe, fish, cement, and 17 other items.

He emphasized the importance of having local products stocked for a minimum of three years before enforcing such policies to prevent potential food shortages.

“Before any government can come up with a policy to implement, the government should have had its local stock in a buffer in their warehouses which can cover about three years,” he emphasized.

“If I take rice for instance, before any government can come up with a policy to implement, government should have had its local stock in a buffer in their warehouses which can cover about three years. That is, we have produced rice locally and are in stock which can cover a minimum of three years,” he stressed.

In response to the proposed import restrictions, Associate Professor Lord Mensah from the University of Ghana Business School expressed skepticism about the plan’s successful implementation.

Mr Mensah questioned the timing and prioritization of the proposed restrictions, citing concerns about the country’s ability to meet the demand for items like fruit juice, animal, and vegetable oil.

He emphasized that it might be premature to implement such restrictions without adequate measures in place to ensure self-sufficiency.

The legal proceedings regarding the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), James Gyakye Quayson, have encountered a substantial pause, triggered by the departure of Justice Mary Maame Ekue Yanzuh, the presiding trial judge, who is currently on leave.

Justice Yanzuh, one of the 12 judges who served during the two-month legal vacation between August and September, is adhering to the customary practice of taking leave after such periods.

This development has led to a substantial pause in the proceedings of the case.

During a court session on Wednesday, November 22, where the prosecution was scheduled to present its third witness, the proceedings took place in chambers, excluding Defense Counsel Tsatsu Tsikata.

Subsequently, the court adjourned.

The trial has been marked by controversy, primarily stemming from the absence of the accused MP. His legal team asserts that he is in Canada undergoing medical examinations.

Despite the court’s order to continue the trial in his absence, his lawyers are challenging this decision at the Supreme Court.

The case, involving five charges including Deceit of a Public Officer, forgery of passport or travel certificates, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury, and false declaration for office, has been adjourned to February 7, 2024.

This substantial adjournment spans two months and 14 days.

It’s worth noting that James Gyakye Quayson has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has been granted bail amid the legal proceedings.

The Volta Regional branch of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is actively participating in a nationwide initiative to digitize customer consumption data and ensure timely payment of bills.

This comprehensive exercise, running from November 6 to December 11, 2023, encompasses all eleven districts in the Volta and Oti Regions.

The General Manager of ECG Volta Region, Ms. Christina Jatoe-Kaleo, affirmed that the transition from manual meter readings to a digitized process aims to instill confidence in customers.

During this exercise, ECG officials will visit customer premises to capture consumption data, verify meter readings, inspect meter integrity, and engage customers in arrears to settle their bills.

Ms. Jatoe-Kaleo explained the streamlined process, involving ECG officials equipped with POS devices to capture and verify meter readings, take images of readings and meters, and transmit the data instantly for billing.

Additionally, customers can request an instant bill, printed on-site by ECG officials using the POS device.

As part of this initiative, ECG staff are well-prepared to train customers on reading their meters, fostering transparency between the company and its customers. Ms. Jatoe-Kaleo emphasized that customers should actively participate in this educational aspect of the exercise.

The General Manager highlighted the identification features of ECG officials, such as ID cards and reflector vests, and encouraged customers to verify staff through the ECG Power App or shortcode *226#.

In cases where customers are not present during visits, ECG teams will leave contact information for follow-up.

This digitized system aligns with the company’s transformative projects, aiming to enhance operational efficiency, offer customer convenience, and minimize system losses.

Ms. Jatoe-Kaleo urged customers to refrain from illegal connections and seize the opportunity presented by the ongoing “Operation Fix The Bill and Pay The Bill” initiative.

This exercise encourages customers to rectify anomalies and settle bills through the ECG Power App or shortcode *226#, contributing to sustaining the electricity supply chain.

Outspoken media personality, Afia Pokua, also known as Vim Lady, has criticized the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, regarding his proposal to legalize the Okada business in Ghana.

Vim Lady contends that such a move would inevitably lead to a surge in road accidents, posing a serious threat to lives.

Expressing her concerns on the Egyaso Gyaso political show aired on Okay FM, Vim Lady rebuked John Mahama for succumbing to pressure from Okada drivers to legalize their business.

She emphasized the potential dangers to citizens’ lives and urged Mahama to reconsider and, if necessary, abandon the idea.

Vim Lady questioned the rationale behind legalizing Okada, citing statistics that identify it as the primary cause of accidents in Ghana.

She argued that prioritizing job creation should not come at the expense of public safety, and individuals should not resort to endangering their lives due to a lack of alternative employment opportunities.

Highlighting the resistance from Okada riders to safety regulations, particularly regarding the use of helmets, Vim Lady expressed frustration with their unwillingness to adhere to essential safety measures.

“It is the same way because of our wicked mentality we convinced Mahama to legalize Okada meanwhile it is the number 1 killer in Ghana. When you say it people complain there are no jobs, let us build factories. So because there are no jobs is it good to kill yourself? Does it make sense to you? If you study the MTTD report, previously it was Taxis and trotro that caused accidents but right now Okada is the number one cause of accidents in Ghana,” she said.

She added: “Even when the police enforce rules for Okada riders to wear helmets they will threaten not to vote. When Mahama was President in 2016, 37 Military Hospital drivers threatened not to vote for Mahama because soldiers were arresting them and they did.”

More fire Vim lady. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/DYEqGl1Cjk

— X Patriots (@TheTPatriots) November 22, 2023

She recalled instances when threats to withhold votes were made by Okada riders in response to law enforcement efforts.

Background:

John Mahama had previously declared his intention to legalize the Okada business if elected in the 2020 polls.

Addressing a gathering in the Volta Region, Mahama acknowledged the prevalence of Okada services and pledged to legalize and regulate the sector.

He emphasized the need for training to ensure safe practices and compliance with traffic regulations while recognizing the vital role Okada plays, especially in remote and rural areas.

PricewaterhouseCoopers Ghana (PwC) has warned that Ghana’s economic recovery could be jeopardized if negotiations with external creditors and debt holders are not swiftly concluded.

The auditing and tax firm expressed concerns that prolonged negotiations may unsettle the investor community, cause financial market instability, and potentially lead international rating agencies to further downgrade Ghana’s bond ratings into junk credit territory.

PwC’s observations are outlined in its 2024 Budget Digest, themed “Pursuing Growth and Development within a Stable Macroeconomic Environment.”

While acknowledging positive economic strides such as a significant drop in headline inflation and stability in the currency, PwC underscored the importance of addressing the potential challenges posed by delayed debt negotiations.

The firm recognized improvements in the public debt position, citing successful debt treatment exercises that reduced the public debt-to-GDP ratio from 73.1% at the end of 2022 to 66.4% in September 2023, largely attributed to economic activities, increased current account positions, and IMF funding.

However, PwC cautioned against overly optimistic interpretations, pointing to less favorable microeconomic indicators. The report raised concerns about the banking industry’s reported after-tax profits, questioning the associated costs.

It highlighted a notable slowdown in the annual growth rate of private sector credit, indicating a contraction of 21% in real terms.

The rise in the non-performing loans (NPL) ratio from 14% in August 2022 to 20% in August 2023 was cited as indicative of the poor performance of the real sector and increased risk aversion among banks toward sectors of the economy.

The Oti Regional Minister, Joshua Makubu, has outlined a comprehensive plan to address the aftermath of tribal clashes in Nkwanta, where residents were forced to flee their homes due to renewed conflicts between the Adele, Challa, and Akyode tribes.

The clashes were centered around disagreements related to ritual rites connected to the 2023 annual Yam Festival, resulting in injuries, fatalities, and a significant disruption of community life.

In an interview with Umaru Sanda on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, Minister Makubu provided insights into the measures taken to restore peace.

Notably, the deployment of police personnel and the imposition of a curfew in the municipality played a crucial role in quelling the unrest.

However, acknowledging the broader impact on the displaced residents, the Regional Minister has unveiled plans for a proactive response.

The focus is on identifying and relocating those affected to ensure an improved living environment, despite being victims of the recent clashes.

Minister Makubu expressed commitment to this initiative during an interview, stating, “So we moved to Burkina Faso where we plan to identify those who have been displaced and relocate them to ensure that even though they are victims of this clash, their living conditions will be improved.”

This multi-faceted approach not only aims to provide immediate relief by restoring calm and enforcing security measures but also emphasizes a long-term commitment to addressing the needs of the displaced population.

The relocation plan is designed not only to address the immediate impact of the clashes but also to enhance the overall well-being and living conditions of those affected by the unfortunate events in Nkwanta.

The Overlord of Mamprugu, Naa Abdulai Mahami Shariga, has called upon Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to visit Bawku and play a pivotal role in reconciling the longstanding factions embroiled in conflict.

Bawku has grappled with persistent conflicts over the years, adversely affecting economic activities and daily life.

Following Dr. Bawumia’s recent visit to the Nayiri, who endorsed him as the NPP flagbearer, the Nayiri urged the Vice President to extend his efforts towards Bawku.

Specifically, he encouraged Dr. Bawumia to engage with stakeholders, including local chiefs, to facilitate peace and unity.

The Nayiri emphasized the need for Dr. Bawumia to leverage his unifying leadership qualities to bring together feuding factions in the Bawku conflict.

In recognition of Dr. Bawumia’s inclusive leadership, the Nayiri bestowed upon him the Chieftaincy title ‘Bigangna,’ signifying one who does not discriminate.

The Nayiri expressed optimism that Dr. Bawumia, if elected, would be a President for all, emphasizing the importance of unity in addressing Ghana’s challenges. He urged the Vice President to continue fostering unity and to actively mediate disputes as part of his presidential responsibilities.

In response, Dr. Bawumia thanked the Nayiri and elders for their support, pledging to champion unity as a central theme in his leadership. He affirmed his commitment to being a president for all Ghanaians, irrespective of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.

“If elected, in shaa Allah, I will be a president for all; for Fantes, for Ashantis, for Ewes, for Kusasis, for Frafra’s, for Konkombas and all other tribes in Ghana. We are one people,” Dr. Bawumia said.

Accompanied by key political figures, including NPP National Chairman Stephen Ntim, Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, and other ministers, Dr. Bawumia expressed gratitude for the endorsement and vowed to work towards a unified and inclusive Ghana.

The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has denied allegations of actively seeking the position of running mate for Dr. Mahammudu Bawumia in the upcoming 2024 general elections.

This response follows an admonition from former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu, who urged Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu to concentrate on his critical oversight responsibilities in Parliament rather than campaigning for the NPP flagbearer’s running mate role.

“Mr Speaker, let me state that there is no contest for running mate and I’m not involved in campaigning for the running mate position, it should be loud and clear,” Osei-Kyei-Mensah said on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, November 23.

In response to similar remarks from Minority Chief Whip Governs Agbodza, the Suame MP unequivocally rejects any notions of actively pursuing the position, underscoring that he is not engaged in a campaign to become Dr. Bawumia’s running mate.

Addressing the issue on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, November 23, Osei-Kyei-Mensah emphasizes, “Let me state that there is no contest for running mate, and I’m not involved in campaigning for the running mate position; it should be loud and clear.”

The Majority Leader urged members of the minority caucus to avoid speculation and instead focus on debating the 2024 budget statement.

Economist Nii Moi Thompson contends that Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s understanding of a 24-hour economy is flawed, emphasizing that it extends beyond merely having night chop bars for fufu and fried rice.

In an article addressing the topic, Dr. Thompson criticizes Dr. Bawumia’s claim that Ghana already operates on a 24-hour economy due to the government’s digitalization efforts, suggesting it reflects a lack of understanding.

While former President Mahama has endorsed the 24-hour economy proposal as a game-changer, Dr. Bawumia has countered, citing existing establishments like hospitals, fuel stations, and chop bars as evidence.

Dr. Thompson challenges this perspective, asserting that a genuine 24-hour economy involves a comprehensive strategy for economic transformation, not just extending operating hours for select establishments.

“if Dr Bawumia’s idea of a 24-hour economy is about building more chop bars across Ghana to ensure round-the-clock access to fufu or fried rice, then he is even more rudderless than he has proven in the past seven years”.

He said: “A 24-hour economy is about more than keeping a few establishments open around the clock – or lighted Astro Turfs at night. It’s a multi-dimensional strategy for economic transformation, where businesses that operate during the day are strengthened and conditions are created for others across the country – not just Accra – to rise or thrive in an inter-connected world that never sleeps. It’s about a country living to its fullest potential, not settling for mediocrity over chop bars”

He dismissed the idea of prioritizing chop bars and calls for a broader approach that empowers businesses nationwide in an interconnected world.

Read Dr Nii Moi Thompson’s full article below:

Bawumia, chop bars, and the 24-hour economy

When former president and flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, declared a 24-hour economy as his main strategy for transforming Ghana’s development fortunes, his adversaries across the pond probably dismissed it as just another campaign talk.

That is, until the Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress, Dr. Yaw Baah, an economist, described the strategy as “a game changer”. And then panic set in across the pond, and even inside it.

For some crazy reason, those adversaries reduced the idea of a 24-hour economy to having fun at night Hence, in the 2024 budget, the finance minister tried to upstage Mr. Mahama by promising everything from “a Night and Sport Economy” (p. 92) to “the Night Economy and tourism” (p. 92) to the development of Black Star Square into a “City Light Centre…to drive the night economy in Accra… [and create] a welcoming night-time environment…” (p. 92), and, finally, to the use of Astro Turfs to create “vibrant night economies” in their host communities (p.93). (For the record, the word “night” appears only once in the 2023 budget, in reference to patrols by immigration officers).

Not to be outdone by the finance minister, the vice president and chairman of the economic management team, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who will be contesting Mr. Mahama in the December 2024 presidential election, reportedly said at a political rally that Mr Mahama “doesn’t understand his own policy” and that “it does not make sense”.

He went on to remind his audience that Ghana already has a thriving 24-hour economy, citing hospitals, fuel stations and chop bars – yes, he did! – as proof. He then promised “a new vision” complete with a “new policy” that would “transform this country.”

The news report gave no details about this vision. But if his idea of a 24-hour economy, beyond the nightlife of the finance minister, is about building more chop bars across Ghana to ensure round-the-clock access to fufu or fried rice, then he is even more rudderless than he has proven in the past seven years.

A 24-hour economy is about more than keeping a few establishments open around the clock – or lighted Astro Turfs at night. It’s a multi-dimensional strategy for economic transformation, where businesses that operate during the day are strengthened and conditions are created for others across the country – not just Accra – to rise or thrive in an inter-connected world that never sleeps. It’s about a country living to its fullest potential, not settling for mediocrity over chop bars.

When the idea of a 24-hour was originally proposed in the 40-Year National Development Plan, it was partly to address unemployment from what the Plan called the “technological upheavals” of the future, such as robotics, AI, and 3D printing, that would displace workers in many traditional and high-value sectors. The strategy, as laid out in the Plan, aimed at three shifts of 8 hours each and 4 shifts of 6 hours each, depending on a “productivity revolution,” which was also proposed in the Plan.

The strategy, which was subsequently incorporated into the NDC’s 2020 manifesto, alongside transformative policies like an Employment Act (to complement the Labour Act) and a jobs programme called Edwuma Pa (Good Work), also recognised the availability, dependability AND increased use of electricity (a measure of a growing economy) as a pre-condition and one of 10 key drivers of a productive 24-Hour economy. Specific targets for electricity consumption, measured by kilowatt-hour (kWh) per capita, were therefore set, and Dr. Bawumia’s government inherited more than enough electricity from Mr. Mahama in 2017 to meet those targets. They didn’t.

Instead, they blamed Mr. Mahama for giving Ghana “too much electricity,” when the real problem was too little economic activity due to the bankrupt economic policies that they initiated the moment they took office, destroying the financial sector and subverting industrial activity. Thus, they missed the critical first-years targets.

For example, in 2018, the government attained only 452 kWh per capita, instead of the projected 620 kWh, and in 2021 it managed 548 kWh instead of 850 kWh; it is unlikely that they would meet the 1,433 kWh target for 2025.

The consequences of these “fatal errors” were predictable: Manufacturing growth declined from 14.24% in the first quarter of 2017 to 6.32% in the last quarter of 2019, while electricity use by the economy peaked at 20.82% in the first quarter of 2018 and then plunged to 0.90% in the third quarter of 2019, all before Covid and Ukraine, which are now the whipping boys of their mismanagement.

The latest data from the Ghana Statistical Service show that the economy has still not recovered from the wrong-headed policies of Dr. Bawumia and his team. The manufacturing sector shrank by 2.5% in the first three months of 2023 and by 0.5% in the next three, inevitably worsening unemployment. (His voodoo claim of creating 2.3 million jobs in a collapsing economy will be tackled another time).

Significantly, and despite popular perceptions, Mr. Mahama has perhaps the best record of any president, except Kwame Nkrumah, in providing electricity to Ghanaians, after inheriting dumsor, which had plagued Ghana intermittently since 1983. The following are the average annual growth rates for installed electricity (by Megawatt) under the four most recent presidents, based on data from the Energy Commission:

Even chop bars, taflatse, need electricity, and Dr. Bawumia has woefully failed to provide that. It is doubtful that he would do any better. Now or ever.

“What others have done, we can do.” – Marcus Garvey.

Anti-corruption investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni has urged the presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, to avoid complacency and maintain vigilance in his pursuit of becoming Ghana’s next president.

In an open letter addressed to the presidential candidate, Manasseh highlighted the predictions forecasting Mahama’s victory in the 2024 elections.

However, he emphasized that this anticipation should serve as motivation for Mahama to intensify his efforts and ensure the fulfillment of these predictions.

“Various predictions point to a win for you in the next election. But if the gods predict a bountiful harvest, the farmer does not go to sleep. In your work in this political farming season, you will be tempted to woo voters with promises. For the next president of Ghana, however, the options are limited,” he added.

He further directed the focus of the NDC flagbearer to maintaining relevance among the Ghanaian populace at present.

Manasseh advised him against excessive commitment to making promises to voters, especially considering the uncertainty of the presidency he might assume if successful in the 2024 general elections.

“If you think this nation is in a mess, wait until you win the next election and assume office. If that happens, you will realise that Ghana is worse than we are made to believe.

“Some hardened criminals in this administration are not satisfied with what they’ve looted. They’re signing deals that will keep siphoning monies from the state coffers for decades after they are off the scene. Not only will you inherit empty coffers; you’re going to inherit huge debts, some of which have been hidden.

“So, be measured in your promises. Any reasonable human being in this country knows that the next government won’t be able to do much, and will not judge your next presidency by the standards of infrastructure and other freebies.

“Our nation is headed for a deadly crash unless the disastrous course is changed. If you want to leave a legacy, focus on policies that will put our democracy back on track. Focus on accountability. If the brazenness with which our republic has been raped goes unpunished, we will survive for long.

“Focus on how to rein in your own men and women, those who will use your presidency to loot for their political futures. Don’t make the mistake of giving sensitive positions to those who are marking their time to do worse versions of what the NPP administration has done. By now, you should know that some of your people are accomplices and will work against any attempt to give Ghanaians justice should you win the next election. Keep them at bay if you win and want to assemble your team.
You and your team should brainstorm on how to put this nation back on track if you win the next election,” he wrote.

The anti-corruption journalist emerged as a prominent critic during the John Mahama presidency, spearheading a significant investigation that, for a considerable number, played a role in the president’s loss in the 2016 general elections.

Find Manasseh’s full post below:

Dear John Dramani Mahama,

Various predictions point to a win for you in the next election. But if the gods predict a bountiful harvest, the farmer does not go to sleep. In your work in this political farming season, you will be tempted to woo voters with promises. For the next president of Ghana, however, the options are limited.

If you think this nation is in a mess, wait until you win the next election and assume office. If that happens, you will realise that Ghana is worse than we are made to believe.

Some hardened criminals in this administration are not satisfied with what they’ve looted. They’re signing deals that will keep siphoning monies from the state coffers for decades after they are off the scene.

Not only will you inherit empty coffers; you’re going to inherit huge debts, some of which have been hidden.

So, be measured in your promises. Any reasonable human being in this country knows that the next government won’t be able to do much, and will not judge your next presidency by the standards of infrastructure and other freebies.

Our nation is headed for a deadly crash unless the disastrous course is changed. If you want to leave a legacy, focus on policies that will put our democracy back on track. Focus on accountability. If the brazenness with which our republic has been raped goes unpunished, we will survive for long.

Focus on how to rein in your own men and women, those who will use your presidency to loot for their political futures. Don’t make the mistake of giving sensitive positions to those who are marking their time to do worse versions of what the NPP administration has done. By now, you should know that some of your people are accomplices and will work against any attempt to give Ghanaians justice should you win the next election. Keep them at bay if you win and want to assemble your team.
You and your team should brainstorm on how to put this nation back on track if you win the next election.

Take drastic legal and constitutional reforms to save this country. If you win in 2024, you won’t have any elections to contest. You’re properly placed to make tough decisions.

Our nation needs to be reset, and if a democratic regime cannot do it, the nation will erupt in flames one day.

After an inglorious exit in 2017, you should be concerned about how to make your mark this time around. You will have a legacy to protect. And brick and mortar won’t be the benchmark against which that legacy will be measured.

It will be measured by how TOUGH you will be against those who are ruining our nation now and also against your own people, some of whom are already jostling for cabinet and other positions.

A study conducted by Euromonitor International Limited has found that the illicit cigarette trade in Ghana constituted 39 percent of total cigarette volume sales in 2018, up from 35 percent in 2017.

The research involved approaching 425 retailers, with 384 (90 percent) consenting to collect packs. A total of 4,461 illicit cigarette packs were collected, and single sticks were sold by all retailers.

Dr. Arti Singh, from the School of Public Health at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, presented the Cancer Research UK (CRUK)-funded project’s findings at a stakeholders’ meeting on Tobacco Industry Interference organized by Vision for Alternative Development – Ghana (VALD-Ghana).

The study revealed the percentage distribution of cigarette brands in Ghana, with Kingsize at 40.9 percent, London Brown/White at 20.8 percent, Pall Mall White at 11.1 percent, Business Royal at 6.7 percent, Fine at 5.2 percent, 555 at 4.3 percent, and others at 3.4 percent. The majority of illicit packs were traced back to Togo (47 percent), followed by Nigeria (14 percent).

“The middle and coastal country zones had lower odds of illicit cigarettes sales than the northern zones.

The research highlighted that one in five cigarette packs collected were illicit, and the odds of illicit cigarette sales were 3.5 times higher in provision stores than in drinking bars. Illicit sales were also 67.2 times higher in border towns compared to non-border towns.

Recommendations from the survey included the implementation of an illicit tobacco national work plan or task force, the development of an efficient track-and-trace system aligned with the protocol, and technical capacity building for law enforcement officers.

The overarching goal of the project was to bolster tobacco control by creating a supportive environment for the implementation of the Illicit Tobacco Protocol (ITP) in Ghana.

Objectives included engaging with national tobacco control stakeholders, identifying key challenges and opportunities, creating and strengthening institutional and domestic capacity, establishing a track-and-trace system, and applying findings from the illicit tobacco study to inform ITP implementation.

Ghana ratified the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products on October 22, 2021.

The Minister for Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has called on Ghanaians to give the New Patriotic Party (NPP) a third term to fully utilize all E-block projects initiated during the Mahama administration.

Dr. Adutwum, speaking during the debate on the 2024 budget in Parliament, emphasized the Nana Addo administration’s commitment to revolutionizing the country’s education system.

He highlighted the transformation of community day schools built by Mahama, noting that many now have boarding facilities, creating opportunities for increased student enrollment.

Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, countered accusations from NDC MPs, asserting that Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia represents the future of Ghana, unlike former President Mahama.

This statement sparked disagreement from Minority counterpart Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, who expressed concern about the country’s future if it relies solely on the Vice President. Buah also pointed out challenges in the 2024 budget related to the energy sector.

Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Comfort Doyoe Ghansah Cudjoe, addressing the media after the parliamentary session, argued for the need for independence and suggested that former President Mahama is the leader to provide it.

She issued a warning that the country is not prepared to tolerate any political misconduct, including from the Vice President.

Source: The Independent Ghana