The Ministry of Education has issued a call to all prospective first-year Senior High School (SHS) students, as well as parents or guardians, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the selection of science courses as the 2023 school selection and placement process gets underway.
This call aligns with the Ministry’s strategic plan for 2018-2030, which aims to achieve a balanced enrollment ratio of 60% for science and 40% for humanities at the tertiary level.
Currently, the ratio of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields stands at 40% while humanities make up 60% of enrollments.
A statement from the Ministry highlighted that they have made significant investments in infrastructure, including the construction and refurbishment of over 300 state-of-the-art laboratories in secondary institutions across the country.
These improvements in infrastructure are seen as crucial enhancements to the quality of science education.
The statement also assured prospective students, guardians, and the public that additional vacancies have been created specifically for science courses to accommodate students interested in pursuing a science-based education.
The Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to collaborating with other entities to ensure strict compliance with tobacco trade regulations.
She emphasized that the illicit tobacco trade presents a significant challenge, as it can facilitate various criminal economic activities.
COP Addo-Danquah made these remarks during a meeting on September 18, 2023, when a delegation comprising officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Secretariat (FCTC) in Geneva, Switzerland, and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) engaged with EOCO officials.
The discussion primarily focused on adopting law enforcement strategies in Ghana’s efforts to combat illicit tobacco trade and addressing other related challenges.
Mrs. Olivia Agyekumwaa Boateng, Head of the Tobacco and Substance Abuse Department at the FDA, who was part of the delegation, revealed that the FDA is currently conducting a needs assessment to gauge the extent of the illicit trade and develop effective strategies within its regulatory framework to combat it.
Throughout the meeting, various speakers underscored the dangers associated with illicit tobacco trade and emphasized the necessity of addressing this menace through collaborative efforts among all stakeholders.
Andrew Black, the Coordinator and Development Assistant of FCTC, highlighted the substantial global problem posed by the illicit tobacco trade, despite its profitability, and stressed its significant risks. Dr. William Maina, the Technical Coordinator for Tobacco Control at WHO, reiterated the dangers of tobacco use, emphasizing its addictive nature and its role in causing various non-communicable diseases like cancer.
Dr. Joana Ansong, WHO country representative for Non-Communicable Diseases, and other officials from the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Secretariat, the UNDP, and several Unit Heads of EOCO were present at the meeting.
George Alex Mensah (rtd), the former Commissioner of Police, has responded to the Ghana Police Service’s decision to revoke his interdiction.
During an interview on Angel FM on September 17, 2023, COP Mensah defended his reputation and minimized the significance of the interdiction on his career.
When asked about the impact of his interdiction, COP Mensah remarked, “Have you ever witnessed an interdiction being lifted in less than 12 hours before?”
The interviewer persisted in questioning the retired police officer about the withdrawal and its potential consequences for him, but he retorted, “They don’t understand what they’re doing.”
Here is an excerpt from their conversation:
COP Mensah: God has truly blessed me; there are no obstacles in my retirement.
Host: Despite the interdiction and its subsequent withdrawal?
COP: Have you ever witnessed an interdiction being lifted within 12 hours?
Host: That’s why they say, “all die-be-die.”
COP: God has blessed me.
Host: But didn’t this have any negative impact on your retirement plans? Didn’t it affect you in any way?
COP: If there was an impact, then you simply need to address it. Once it’s addressed, there’s no more impact.
Host: But in this case, they didn’t address it; they just suspended it with the possibility of reinstating it.
A tragic incident has unfolded in Wurumrumso, a farming community in the Asutifi South district of the Ahafo region, where a 29-year-old man named Kwame Boateng is alleged to have brutally murdered his mother, Leticia Dufie.
The eighth child of the deceased, Mary Melebora, revealed in an interview with Adom News’ Sammy Asare that her brother used a machete to fatally attack their mother. The motive behind this horrific act remains a mystery.
Reports suggest that the suspect made an attempt on his own life after committing the gruesome crime. However, he was apprehended by the police and promptly taken to the Goaso Government Hospital for medical treatment.
As of now, Kwame Boateng is still receiving medical care while under the supervision of law enforcement.
Two persons have been arrested in relation to the killing of Odehye Kwame Sarkodie in Adoagyiri, Eastern Region.
The primary suspect, Daniel Osei Yaw Boateng, aged 55, was apprehended at his concealed location in Sefwi Akontombra, Western North Region, based on intelligence collected by the Kyebi Regional Police Command.
The second suspect, Kwame Anim, aged 57, was later detained after the primary suspect implicated him as an accomplice in the crime.
A third suspect, identified as Kofi Kurankye and alleged to be the personal driver of the rival chief of Adoagyiri, Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh, is currently evading arrest.
Reliable intelligence suggests that the two detainees have been transferred to police headquarters per the directive of the police administration.
According to reports, the primary suspect, Daniel Osei Yaw Boateng, confessed to the police that he was responsible for shooting and killing Odehye Kwame Sarkodie.
He further claimed that Kofi Kurankye provided him with the firearm from Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh’s Palace and instructed him to carry out the shooting. Kwame Anim allegedly assisted Yaw Boateng in leaving the crime scene after the incident.
Odehye Kwame Sarkodie was allegedly murdered by assailants believed to be linked to the rival claimant of the Adoagyiri stool, Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh, on July 15, 2023, following numerous threats on his life that had been reported to the Nsawam Police station.
This murder case marked the first recorded incident related to the Adoagyiri chieftaincy dispute in July 2023, following a violent clash that resulted in the death of two individuals and injuries to many.
Residents are urging the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and bring the culprits to justice to restore order and peace in the area.
A 27-year-old electrician named James was discovered lifeless, with his eyes missing, at Kasoa new market in the Awutu Senya East Municipality of the Central region.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers carried out this horrific act approximately 1000 meters away from where the victim’s lifeless body was later located.
Following the brutal assault, the assailants allegedly placed the victim’s body in a wheelbarrow and left it at the market.
Additionally, NADMO Zonal Coordinator for Kasoa Kpomotey Electoral area, Christopher Appiah, and the Chief of Awutu, Nai Okogyeaman Oshimpo, followed a trail of blood to the original crime scene.
Simon Hagan Jnr., a Unit Committee member for Kasoa new market, expressed profound concern about the gruesome crime in the area, noting that criminals are gradually taking control of the region.
Meanwhile, district police officers arrived at the scene and transported the body to the morgue.
A private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has stated that the scandal involving former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, demonstrates that President Akufo-Addo has forfeited his moral stance on corruption.
Kpebu made this declaration during an interview with the media on Tuesday, in response to revelations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
The OSP disclosed that the former Sanitation Minister used aliases to hide transactions related to her undisclosed real estate business and that her deceased brother’s bank account was still active, sending funds to her.
“President Akufo-Addo has lost the moral stand, he is no longer on a moral high horse. He couldn’t fire the minister. The minister left by herself and that showed Akufo-Addo is weak, he couldn’t fire her. Meanwhile, in opposition, he said, ‘I will not support corruption, I will not do family and friends.’ He was using family and friends in this instance, he couldn’t sack her. It took public opinion, public pressure and then madam Dapaah went.”
“The other side that comes in is that he didn’t select well. So once he didn’t select a good minister and the minister is embroiled in all of this embarrassing thing, it also touches on the president. Don’t forget they say show me your friend and I will show you my character. So sometimes there is that collective punishment,” he stated.
According to court documents filed by the OSP, Cecilia Dapaah used aliases to conceal transactions related to her undisclosed real estate business.
The documents also revealed the existence of unexplained large sums of cash at her residence, significantly surpassing her income as a Minister of State, with allegations of theft by her house-helps.
Additionally, the OSP disclosed that a bank account belonging to Cecilia Dapaah’s deceased brother remained active and continued to transfer funds to the former Sanitation Minister.
“Analysis of the statements in the first respondent’s Prudential Bank account number 0090924640014 highly suspicious transactions involving the name of the first respondent’s deceased brother – Nana Akwasi Essan. The said Nana Akwasi Essan died in January 2022 and there is no record domiciled at the financial institutions of probate or letters of administration granted to personal representatives). Strangely, there are active transfers from the deceased person’s bank account to that of the first respondent’s Prudential Bank account number 0090924640014.
“As recently as 19 September 2022 and 23 May 2023, amounts of Ten Thousand Four Hundred and Fifty cedis (GH¢10,450.00) and Eleven Thousand Two Hundred and Eighty Thousand cedis (GH¢11,280.00) respectively were transferred, supposedly by the deceased brother to the first respondent,” the OSP noted.
Police have successfully quelled the disturbance in Ofankor that unfolded on Wednesday morning, September 20, involving road blockades and tire burning.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the turmoil stemmed from a land dispute involving landguards and wood vendors.
Law enforcement in the region has bolstered security measures, and the affected road has been reopened for regular traffic.
In a concise statement, the police affirmed their active pursuit of the incident’s culprits and their intention to bring them to justice.
As per available reports, the clash unfolded between wood vendors and landguards at Ofankor Moose along the Accra-Nsawam road.
Tragically, one fatality has been reported, with several individuals sustaining injuries.
According to reports the primary source of conflict was the landowner’s decision to evict wood vendors, despite having received rent payments from them over the past three years.
The situation escalated when alleged landguards, believed to have been dispatched by the landowner, descended on the area, discharging firearms and looting shops. This resulted in one wood vendor sustaining gunshot wounds, prompting the wood vendors to retaliate.
Fortunately, the timely intervention of the police prevented further escalation and helped restore peace to the locality.
A former presidential aspirant from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has expressed uncertainty regarding his choice of party for the 2024 presidential elections.
In an interview with the media on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 he indicated that he is hesitant to vote for the NPP in the upcoming polls due to the current government’s poor performance.
Frimpong-Boateng, who formerly served as the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation under President Akufo-Addo, also noted that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has not demonstrated any signs of offering a better alternative.
“I have not decided (on who to vote for) yet. Because it is fluid now. What I don’t like is an attempt to buy votes, force people in a certain direction. If you do that it is a testimony to the weakness of the candidate that you are supporting.
“It will be difficult for the NPP to win the 2024 elections. It is a fact that they [the NPP] have over-promised and under-delivered but everything is possible but the NDC is also not giving me any hope,” he said.
He went on to suggest that it would be challenging for the NPP to secure victory in the 2024 elections, citing their tendency to make lofty promises without delivering on them.
However, he acknowledged that while the NPP faces difficulties, the NDC has not provided him with much hope either.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng also shared his previous vision of the NPP remaining in power for more than 40 years, but he lamented the current state of affairs, which he believes places the NPP at risk of losing the 2024 elections.
“When I was in government, I said the way the NDC had mismanaged the country, we were going to help the president and work so that the NPP would still be there even after forty years and there would be no romantic ideas about the NDC again and now look at where we are. I thought we were going to work and there would be no romantic ideas about Mahama and the NDC ever coming back,” he said.
The National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ntim, has voiced his endorsement of Adwoa Safo’s recent apology, underscoring its significance in her political journey.
Ntim emphasized that Adwoa Safo, as a party member, is taking the appropriate step by issuing an apology.
“Adwoa Safo’s apology is in order; I really support her objective because she knows the NPP is the only party she belongs to. So, she is doing what is expected of her, I mean the apology and all that,” Chairman Ntim stated.
However, he made it clear that the final decision regarding Adwoa Safo’s candidacy for the parliamentary seat and her potential return as a Member of Parliament rests in the hands of the party’s delegates and the constituents of Dome-Kwabenya.
“If the constituents accept her to be an MP once again despite all that has gone on, I as Chairman and the rest of the party leadership will back her with our spirits to become an MP. So, her fate rests in the hands of Dome-Kwabenya delegates, from polling station to the constituency level,” Chairman Ntim affirmed.
Adwoa Safo, the incumbent Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, publicly apologized on Thursday, September 14, to the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and other party officials.
She explained that her extended absence from Parliament was due to personal and family issues she was grappling with during that period.
Adwoa Safo had been absent from her parliamentary duties for over a year after her trip to the United States. Consequently, her seat became vacant, prompting some MPs to call for its declaration as such.
In 2022, she was summoned to appear before the Privileges Committee of Parliament multiple times but failed to do so.
The Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ntim, has clarified that his role does not involve endorsing any potential flagbearer within the party until an official candidate is chosen through the party’s democratic procedures.
During an interview with the media on September 19, 2023, Chairman Stephen Ntim emphasized the significance of allowing the party’s delegates to determine the flagbearer.
He stated, “Before the chairman decides to make a president from the party, he has to leave the selection of the candidate to polling agents, constituencies, and the regional offices for them to vote and elect a candidate they believe in to be the president.”
Chairman Ntim further elucidated that only after this electoral process would he, as the party chairman, step in to provide support and advocate for the selected presidential candidate.
This support would encompass activities such as fundraising, logistical assistance, and other essential preparations essential for a presidential campaign.
He underscored his unwavering commitment to maintaining impartiality throughout the selection process, reaffirming that “prior to the election, the chairman has no involvement. He remains impartial until the flagbearer is chosen.”
Residents and motorists in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region have issued a stern ultimatum to the government.
They’ve issued a warning that if the abysmal road conditions in their locality remain unattended, they will continue their protests and disrupt political parties’ campaign efforts in the area.
On Tuesday, a coalition of driver unions, in conjunction with local residents and road users, took to the streets to protest the deteriorating road infrastructure in several Amansie localities, including Manso Nkwanta in the Amansie West District, Jacobu in the Amansie Central District, and Manso Adubia in the Amansie South Municipality.
Despite government assurances regarding road repairs, interviewed road users stated that progress in addressing these concerns has been painfully slow. Additionally, some individuals expressed concerns about criminals exploiting the poor road network to carry out attacks.
During the protest, participants burned lorry tires and brandished placards to voice their grievances.
They subsequently submitted a petition to the Amansie West District Assembly, even though the District Chief Executive was unavailable to receive it in person. However, a representative accepted the petition on his behalf.
“The roads are in a bad state,” one driver said, adding “as members of the driver unions, we are appealing to the government to fix the roads. If we don’t see any construction on the road, we will not entertain any political activities in the area, and we are very determined to carry that plan out. This caution goes for both the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party.”
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Ghana, Godfred Dame, has highlighted the imperative of intensifying the battle against corruption throughout Africa to uphold corporate accountability on the continent.
Speaking at the 2023 Concordia Annual Summit, centered on the theme “Navigating Corporate Accountability and Human Rights in Africa,” Mr. Dame affirmed Ghana’s commitment to implementing essential measures, including the implementation of legal frameworks, aimed at ensuring transparency in its public sector operations to promote corporate accountability.
Mr. Dame stressed the primary impediment to corporate accountability in Africa is corruption and advocated for the establishment of deterrent structures to prevent corrupt practices.
Ghana, he stated, is actively working towards enacting vital legislation, such as the Conduct of Public Officers Bill, which encompasses a comprehensive set of regulations governing the conduct of public officials.
Furthermore, Mr. Dame emphasized that to effectively guarantee corporate accountability in African nations, it is imperative to fortify the justice systems, giving priority to the protection of human rights.
He stated, “We must also establish a robust justice system capable of addressing human rights violations. Our justice system should unequivocally safeguard all facets of the rule of law and ensure that violations are consistently met with appropriate consequences.”
The 13th Annual Summit is currently taking place at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, aiming to facilitate transformative dialogues and deliver tangible solutions to address the world’s most pressing challenges through market-driven approaches.
Barcelona commenced their Champions League campaign with a resounding victory over Royal Antwerp, showcasing their dominance in the match. Under the guidance of manager Xavi, the Catalan side swiftly established a commanding lead, with three goals in the opening 23 minutes.
These goals were crafted by the talents of Joao Felix, Robert Lewandowski, and an unfortunate own goal credited to Jelle Bataille.
Adding to their tally, young prospect Gavi contributed the fourth goal before Joao Felix secured his second goal after halftime, providing Barcelona with a flawless beginning to their Champions League journey.
It’s worth noting that Barcelona, despite being the reigning La Liga champions, had faced early exits in the group stage during their previous two Champions League campaigns.
On the other hand, Antwerp, who had clinched the Belgian title in the previous season, marking their debut in the Champions League, struggled to match the home team’s precision in passing and finishing.
While Barcelona’s quest for a Champions League title has eluded them since 2015, their performance in this match evoked memories of their illustrious past, particularly the era when Xavi orchestrated their midfield alongside the likes of Mark van Bommel, who now found himself in the opposing dugout as the manager of Antwerp, while Xavi assumed the helm at Barcelona.
In this contemporary iteration of Barcelona, the creative duties in midfield fall to Ilkay Gundogan. His pivotal role was evident when, on the 11th minute, he orchestrated an elegant exchange with Lewandowski, ultimately setting up Joao Felix, who confidently dispatched the ball into the net at the near post.
The lead was further solidified just eight minutes later, courtesy of a splendid long pass from Frenkie de Jong to Joao Felix, stationed in the left area of the box. The Portuguese forward, currently on loan from Atletico Madrid, provided a precise cross for Lewandowski, who volleyed the ball home from close range.
Antwerp’s Champions League debut took a nightmarish turn as they conceded their third goal through an unfortunate deflection. Alejandro Balde’s cross inadvertently struck right-back Jelle Bataille, causing the ball to agonizingly loop over goalkeeper Jean Butez and find its way into the net via the far post.
Barcelona’s midfield dominance allowed them to control the match, with Gavi scoring his first-ever Champions League goal by rifling the ball into the roof of the net in the 54th minute.
The scoring spree was fittingly concluded by the electrifying Joao Felix, whose second goal was a testament to Raphinha’s pinpoint left-footed cross. The former Leeds United player skillfully cut back on the right flank before delivering an unstoppable ball that Joao Felix nodded home at the far post.
Renowned Ghanaian gospel artist Nii Okai orchestrated a triumphant musical concert titled “Moko Be @ 20 on Sunday, September 17, 2023.
The event took place at the ICGC Zoe Temple in Tema, marking the 20th anniversary of Nii Okai’s debut album, ‘Moko Be.’ This concert proved to be a resounding success, drawing a capacity crowd that filled the entire auditorium.
Throughout the evening, Nii Okai delivered a stunning performance, presenting over 30 selections from his extensive repertoire spanning eight albums.
He was joined on stage by several artists, many of whom had been part of his team over the years, including Eugene Zuta, MOGmusic, Kofi Karikari, Naa Mercy, David Osabutey, and Nana Yaa Amihere. Together, they rendered a multilingual rendition of the classic song “Moko Be,” featuring the participation of Pastor Helen Yawson, Akesse Brempong, Philip Adzale, and Patrick Masoperh.
The concert served as a joyous celebration of Nii Okai’s enduring legacy and profound influence on the landscape of Ghanaian gospel music. Numerous esteemed artists joined him in the festivities, including Joe Mettle, Koda, Ps Isaiah, Calvis Hammond, and Lordina the Soprano.
Beyond the musical performances, the event featured special appearances by notable dignitaries, including Hon. Ntim Fordjour, Deputy Minister of Education; Rev. Ogbarmey Tetteh, Director-General of SEC; Dr. Lawrence Tetteh; Oheneyere Gifty Anti; and Ps. Andy Yawson.
In sum, the Moko Be @ 20 Concert was an unequivocal triumph. Nii Okai, along with his illustrious guests, crafted an unforgettable evening filled with music and celebration. Patrons left the event thoroughly entertained and inspired by the experience.
The police have taken into custody three Form 3 students from T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School, located in Gomoa Potsin in the Central Region. These students stand accused of causing machete injuries to approximately 15 of their junior counterparts who are in Form 2.
According to Jacob Kubi of UTV, it has been observed that the remaining students involved in this misconduct have chosen to conceal themselves from authorities, recognizing that their actions have triggered a police investigation into the matter.
It has been reported that the injured students had to be admitted to the hospital due to the varying degrees of injuries they sustained as a result of the violent actions of their unruly senior classmates.
The sequence of events leading to this unfortunate incident began with allegations that the Form 3 students had invaded the dormitories of their junior counterparts, stealing their personal belongings, including food supplies.
On the day of the incident, these same Form 3 students allegedly once again infiltrated the dormitory area, forcefully breaking open the personal storage boxes belonging to the junior students. This horrifying ordeal escalated further as they individually approached their victims, inquiring about their names before brutally assaulting them by striking their heads with a hammer and subsequently attacking them with machetes.
The culprits involved in these acts of aggression were allegedly known for their recurrent practice of forcibly confiscating food and other possessions from their junior counterparts. Any victims who dared to voice their complaints or confront these individuals were subjected to intimidation.
Among the students who have been apprehended are two individuals with reputations for such misconduct, namely “Cyberman” and another individual believed to be the ringleader, known as “Skinnyman.” Following the commission of these offenses, all of them reportedly went into hiding, with the assistance of some outraged parents of the victims, who facilitated the arrest of the three individuals. Meanwhile, law enforcement authorities continue their efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining offenders who are evading capture.
Five Form 3 students of Potsin T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School arrested for allegedly attacking their juniors#UTVNewspic.twitter.com/y81afK8mo4
The founder of the now-defunct Menzgold company, Nana Appiah Mensah,who is currently facing trial over accusations of defrauding more than 16,000 individuals of GH¢1.6 billion, has firmly refuted the allegations that he evaded Ghana’s legal framework to operate an illicit gold deposit-taking enterprise.
His legal counsel, Kwame Akuffo, passionately argued before the High Court on Tuesday, September 19, that Nana Appiah Mensah, commonly known as NAM 1, did not contravene the provisions of the Banking and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), as asserted by the prosecution.
Instead, Akuffo contended that it was officials from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) who provided counsel to Mensah, advising him to change the name of his company from Menzbank to Menzbanc. Furthermore, the BoG recommended the establishment of a separate entity called Brew Marketing Consult. The purpose of these recommendations was to ensure that the gold marketing business remained distinct from the operations of Menzgold.
“Indeed, in meetings with the BoG, it was the BoG that recommended that a third accused company ( Brew Marketing Consult) be set up in order to ensure that the gold marketing business was kept distinct from the business of Menzgold,” counsel said, reports Graphic Online’s Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson from the court.
Mr. Akuffo stated that he would refrain from disclosing the identities of the Bank of Ghana officials who provided advice to his client at this juncture. However, he indicated that during the course of the trial, when it is deemed appropriate, he intends to issue subpoenas to compel these officials to appear as witnesses. Their testimony would be crucial in supporting the defense of his client.
“I will skip the names because the court may take evidence from them in camera,” counsel said.
In the ongoing legal proceedings, Nana Appiah Mensah, has pleaded not guilty to a total of 39 charges. These charges encompass various offenses, including violations of Act 930, defrauding by false pretense, fraudulent breach of trust, and money laundering.
The court, which was presided over by Dr. Ernest Owusu-Dapaa, a Justice of the Court of Appeal serving as an additional High Court judge, granted NAM 1 bail amounting to GH¢500 million. This bail arrangement necessitates the provision of four sureties.
Additionally, as part of the bail conditions set by Justice Owusu-Dapaa, NAM 1 has been ordered to surrender his passport to the Court Registrar and to regularly report to the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) every Thursday.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has articulated his primary objective during his nationwide tour ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearership race.
He emphasizes his commitment to sharing his ideas and highlighting the accomplishments of the NPP government with party stakeholders.
Dr. Bawumia made these remarks while addressing NPP delegates in Asutifi, located in the Ahafo Region. He emphasized his belief in conducting a positive and issue-based campaign, stating that he does not subscribe to the practice of attacking his opponents within the party during internal contests.
Instead, he stressed the common goal of all NPP members, which is to secure victory over the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming 2024 elections.
“I don’t believe in attacking my opponents and I won’t do that because it will be toxic and won’t be good for our party,” Dr. Bawumia said.
“This is an internal contest to elect our flagbearer, so why should I attack my opponents or say something against our party? I am running a very decent campaign. I am selling my ideas to delegates and I do that with decorum, with humility, with respect and without mentioning anybody’s name.”
The Vice President has further conveyed that he has issued a directive to his campaign team members and spokesperson, urging them not to engage in any form of attack against any individual, even in the event that he is targeted by any fellow aspirant. This decision has been made in the best interest of the party.
“This should be a contest of ideas, not insults. So I have told all my staff not to insult or attack anyone. They should stick to sharing my vision and message to delegates. I have told them that even if I am attacked or insulted, they, should not respond because I am a unifier.”
It has come to light that former sanitation minister, Cecilia Dapaah, in a recent court filing by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), has revised the amount of money allegedly stolen by her house helps in the previous year.
Initially, the report and court filing against the house helps alleged the theft of one million dollars, along with significant amounts in euros and Ghana cedis, from her residence in Abelemkpe.
However, the latest submission by the OSP to the court reveals that Minister Dapaah has reduced the figure to US$590,000. This particular sum was discovered at the same premises during a search conducted by the OSP in her presence in July.
“She said the US$590,000 which was found by the OSP was a part of the one million dollars which was stolen by the eight people who are now standing trial for theft,” a TV3 journalist confirmed.
During the search conducted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), a sum of US$590,000 in dollars and GH¢2.8 million in cash was uncovered.
Following this discovery, the OSP took legal action by applying to a High Court to seize the funds and freeze the accounts of Ms. Dapaah. This action was taken on suspicion that the origin of these funds was connected to corrupt activities, as the minister was unable to provide a legitimate source for the money.
Regarding the primary matter of the stolen funds, the OSP stated that there was insufficient evidence to ascertain the source of these stolen funds.
“There are no financial records and traces of the origin(s) of the money reportedly stolen from the residence of the respondents and the money discovered by the OSP at said residence.
“Further, there is no evidence of the amounts of money having been derived from any legitimate businesses, profession or vocation, and no evidence of said amounts having been lawfully declared and subjected to any statutory payments,” the filing read in part.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) initially unfroze the former minister’s accounts and returned her properties, in accordance with the court’s directive issued on August 21. Subsequently, the OSP refroze the accounts and took the current legal action by submitting a new application.
A hearing for this matter has been scheduled for October 18, 2023.
Kwadwo Tawiah Likpalmor, a former Member of Parliament (MP) representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has passed away. He succumbed to a prolonged battle with stroke at the Tamale Teaching Hospital on Tuesday, September 19.
Mr. Likpalmor, aged 63, had a long-standing and influential presence within the NDC. His passing was confirmed by the Kpandai NDC communication officer and several party executives.
During his illustrious political career, Mr. Likpalmor served as the MP for the Kpandai constituency in the Northern region from 1992 to 2012. Remarkably, he was a member of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth Parliaments of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.
In addition to his political contributions, the late MP also had a background as an educator and held the prestigious position of Principal Superintendent of the Ghana Education Service at one juncture in his career.
Mr. Tawiah leaves behind his wife and five children, leaving a legacy of dedicated public service.
At the age of 47, Akraba Nana, defying both adversity and societal norms, has embarked on an extraordinary journey to pursue his education, years after dropping out following the tragic loss of his parents.
Sharing his life story and motivation, Akraba Nana, also known as “Schoolboy,” recounted how his dreams were shattered when he lost both his parents while he was in class three.
“I was in class three when I lost both parents [then] my future ambition crashed,” he recounted.
After grappling with adversity and seeking employment in various places, Akraba eventually settled in Cape Coast, Central Region, where he became a well-known head porter at the Kotokoraba Market.
Simultaneously, he discovered a passion for music but faced a significant obstacle – he couldn’t write his own songs.
“All those who wrote my songs for me did not write it exactly the way I wanted to bring out the lyrics.
“The motivation to write my songs forced me to go back to school. After consultation with my wife, I decided to go back to school to be able to read and write,” he noted.
The desire to write his songs compelled him to make the life-changing decision to return to school and learn how to read and write.
Every day, Akraba embarks on a journey of almost a kilometer to attend St. Paul Catholic School.
Here, he not only studies but also shares his school life with his seven children, four of whom are ahead of him in the same school, while two are his classmates.
“The headmistress was admitting nursery students as at the time I was also seeking admission. Per the school rules, the window was opened for nursery students, [but] the headmistress allowed me to start in class three,” he recalled.
This decision to return to school was the result of discussions with his supportive wife, who encouraged him to pursue education. Akraba’s determination and persistence have led to him paying not only his own school fees but also those of his seven children. Currently in class six, he has remained in this grade for four years because he has not yet met the prerequisite grades to advance to Junior High School.
Despite his age, Akraba eagerly participates in all school activities. He plays football, is a member of the school choir, engages in volleyball, and willingly accepts any disciplinary measures.
“I remember how I was caned by a teacher I am older than. Interestingly, my kids and I had to go through that ordeal together,” he said.go through that experience together,” he remarked, illustrating his unwavering commitment to his education and personal growth.
The Obuasi Municipal Assembly (OMA) has demonstrated its commitment to maximize revenue to facilitate more developmental projects for the people of Obuasi.
The Chief Executive of the Assembly, Elijah Adansi-Bonah on Monday, September 18, 2023 led the management of the Assembly to unveil a 15-seater brand new Toyota Hiace to improve revenue collection.
Speaking at a short ceremony to outdoor the bus, MCE Adansi-Bonah, who was in the company of management of the Assembly, said the Assembly takes cognisance of the importance of maximising revenue to boost the Assembly’s developmental drive hence the need to purchase the bus to facilitate the process.
“The Assembly for decades now has not bought any brand new vehicle but we know the essence of having a mini-bus which will help in mobilizing revenue and aid short travels by staff from the Assembly.”
Purchased at a cost of GH¢760,000 sourced from the Assembly’s Internally Generated Fund, the bus is part of the robust measures put in place to boost development.
The MCE said just as the Assembly has measures to safeguard its fleet of vehicles, it will employ the same measures to maintain the bus. Call for the public to pay their levies
The Obuasi MCE further appealed to the general public to pay their levies promptly.
He said the Assembly has demonstrated judicious use of its Internally Generated Fund within the period.
“We have always made it a point to be accountable to the people through our various town hall meetings. What we have seen today is an indication that we have been using public funds judiciously. The people of Obuasi can help us do more by paying their levies promptly.”
He commended president Akufo-Addo for putting in place measures to boost the District Assemblies’ revenue drive, stressing that Obuasi has benefited from such policies putting the Assembly in a pole position to collect more revenues.
The Obuasi Municipal Assembly’s office has seen significant improvement in recent times.
This, the Mr Adansi-Bonah alluded to, is part of his resolve to leave a legacy as an MCE.
He said since he assumed office, he has made it a point to give a facelift to the office by commencing the renovation of the Assembly block.
He said the Assembly’s car park which had become a death trap due to its deplorable nature has been fixed whiles the forecourt will witness major upgrading soon.
He called for the support of residents for the Assembly to deliver quality services to them.
A wildlife veterinarian, Dr. Meyir Y. Ziekah, has achieved the top honor in the Photo Contest held as part of the 71st International Annual Wildlife Disease Association congress.
This prestigious event took place in Athens, Georgia, USA, from July 29th to August 5th, 2023.
The congress, which drew over 620 wildlife veterinary professionals, researchers, and students from around the world, featured a cutting-edge scientific program themed “People, Passion, & Purpose: The Pathway to Wildlife Health.”
Representing Ghana at the conference were Dr. Ziekah and Dr. Samuel Asumah, who were the sole African participants in this event hosted in the USA.
Dr. Ziekah, the Manager of the renowned Kumasi Zoological Gardens within the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission Ghana, known as Kumasi Zoo in the Ashanti Region, secured the winning entry in the photo contest.
During the congress, these two officials from Ghana’s Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission addressed an international audience of wildlife experts.
Dr. Ziekah discussed “Zoonotic Diseases in Harvested Wild Animals for Meat: A Case in the Bushmeat Market in Kumasi City Centre, Ghana,” while Dr. Asumah presented on “Mortality Investigation and Disease Surveillance in Four Species of Sea Turtles in Ghana: Enhancing Conservation and Public Health Strategies.”
Both emphasized the need for effective collaboration among local and international stakeholders in the animal health sector, including veterinary services, wildlife conservation, academia, research institutions, and funding agencies.
Their goal was to promote efficient wildlife disease diagnoses, manage zoonotic diseases, conduct research, and advance the concept of one health ecosystem, particularly in light of the growing threat of emerging infectious diseases of animal origin worldwide.
Dr. Ziekah was awarded a pair of Olympus Binoculars during the conference banquet, which he intends to use for wildlife population counting and monitoring in Ghana.
Following the conference, Drs. Ziekah and Asumah spent an additional week in the USA, visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, St. Louis Zoo (the second-largest zoo in the USA), and Louisville Zoo. During this time, they acquired modern techniques for animal disease investigation and treatment. These skills will be pivotal in their collaboration with the Kumasi Veterinary Laboratory for the assessment of poached and poisoned wild animals in Ghana.
Moreover, the two experts established a strategic partnership to ensure that Ghanaian wildlife experts can shadow the work of their counterparts at the Louisville Zoo in the USA on an annual basis.
Dr. Ziekah and Dr. Asumah extend their heartfelt gratitude to the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), which sponsored their attendance at the conference and provided additional training in the United States of America through the Animal Health Systems Strengthening (AHSS) project at the Office of the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) at the British Embassy in Ghana.
Drs. Asumah and Ziekah at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center
The Office of the Special Prosecutor has revealed the location where its officers discovered hidden funds during a search of former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah’s residences.
According to the latest court documents filed by the Office, a search was conducted at her Ablemkpe residence on July 24, 2023, in response to reports of significant sums of money having been stolen from her premises.
This search led to the discovery of cash amounts totaling $590,000 and ¢2,862,007.
Subsequent searches were carried out in two other residential properties of the dismissed Minister located in Cantonments and Tesano, both in Accra.
The Office stated that the monies were cleverly concealed in various forms, including wraps, polythene bags, clothes, 32 envelopes, and were buried and hidden in inconspicuous places within the residence, some even labeled and described.
This development is part of the Office’s ongoing efforts to confirm the seizure of properties suspected to be linked to Madam Dapaah.
Previously, the Office had seized a significant amount of cash from the former Minister and ordered the freezing of certain bank accounts with transactions totaling over ¢40 million.
However, an Accra High Court refused to confirm these seizures and the freezing order, instructing the OSP to return the amounts to Cecilia Dapaah.
The Special Prosecutor has since returned to court in a bid to obtain confirmation of the seizures.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor also revealed allegations that the former Minister allegedly possesses millions of cedis for which she could not provide a legitimate source.
Additionally, the filing alleges that an account belonging to the late brother of the former Minister was still transferring funds to Cecilia Dapaah’s accounts.
Background:
Two housemaids employed by Cecilia Abena Dapaah and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, are currently facing charges at an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly stealing money and valuables worth millions of cedis from the couple’s residence in Abelemkpe, Accra. The accused individuals, Patience Botwe (18 years old) and Sarah Agyei (30 years old), have been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of theft.
The alleged thefts took place between July and October 2022, during which the housemaids purportedly stole personal belongings belonging to Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, including various clothes valued at GH¢95,000, handbags, perfumes, and jewelry worth $95,000.
In addition, Ms. Botwe is accused of stealing six pieces of Kente cloth valued at GH¢90,000 and six sets of men’s suits valued at US$3,000, which belong to the minister’s husband.
The Ayawaso West Municipal Assembly has refunded a sum of GH₵283,000 originally designated for administrative expenses from the Assembly’s Common Fund.
During a hearing by the Public Accounts Committee in Ho, Sandra Owusu Ahinkorah, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ayawaso West Municipality, justified the expenditure of GH₵751,000 from the Assembly’s Common Fund.
It was revealed that the intended expenditure was GH₵197,000 for a rental property instead of the actual amount spent, GH₵751,000.
“We are still in the process of renting the Assembly block, and the excess amount has been reimbursed to the District Assembly Common Fund account as advised,” she explained.
Additionally, the Ayawaso West Municipal Assembly clarified that it indeed utilized its COVID-19 fund to educate 15 schools within the municipality.
This clarification was made in response to the committee’s assertion of the Assembly’s non-utilization of the COVID-19 fund.
“It has been utilised, in fact, payments have been made to the Ghana Health Service, it was used for sensitization in all the basic schools. We did 12 to 15 basic schools sensitising them on COVID-19,” Sandra Owusu Ahinkorah stated.
Former presidential aspirant of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has expressed deep concern about the state of leadership in the country and its role in hindering development, despite decades of stability since independence.
The distinguished heart surgeon and founder of the National Cardiothoracic Center lamented the absence of transformational leaders in Ghana since the first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
In an interview with the media, the former Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, who had a falling-out with the Akufo-Addo administration due to controversies surrounding his role as Chairman of the government’s anti-illegal mining task-force, emphasized that Ghana has had no excuse for its current challenges, considering the long period of stability it has enjoyed.
“If after twenty or forty years, we are not making any headway though we haven’t had any civil war, drought, or any natural catastrophe and we are in this state, there must be something wrong and it can only be a lack of transformational leadership.”
“We haven’t had any transformational leadership since Kwame Nkrumah,” Prof. Frimpong-Boateng stated.
He argued that the consequences of corruption, incompetence, and mismanagement could not be concealed indefinitely by political leaders. He asserted that these consequences would eventually come to light and have an impact on the nation.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s concerns were reinforced by data from the Bank of Ghana in July 2023, which revealed that Ghana’s public debt had risen significantly by ¢96.1 billion in the first four months of 2023, reaching ¢569.3 billion in April 2023, equivalent to approximately 71.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or $52 billion.
“We cannot hide the consequences of corruption, incompetence, and mismanagement, you can hide them but they will appear” he noted.
This increase was primarily attributed to the depreciation of the cedi during the period and a modest increase in domestic debt of ¢15.6 billion in the first four months of the year.
The renowned heart surgeon urged the country to seek internal solutions to reduce its reliance on external borrowing, stating that external assistance should not become a permanent feature of the Ghanaian system.
He also stressed the importance of preserving the legacy of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, particularly his establishment of scientific institutions, which were disrupted during subsequent regimes.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng highlighted the need to build on the foundations laid by Nkrumah to promote scientific and technological advancement in Ghana.
“We should be able to organise ourselves in such a way that we are able to take care of ourselves. We sometimes need external help but it should not be a permanent feature of our lives.”
“We can overthrow him [Dr. Kwame Nkrumah] but don’t destroy some of the things that he did. Nkrumah set up the Academy of Sciences which became the CSIR and other scientific institutions. These institutions Nkrumah set up were going to do things and the NLC came and destroyed everything and cancelled everything.”
The Director of the Institute of Statistical Social and Economic Research (ISSER), Professor Peter Quartey, has emphasized the urgent need for Parliament to reinstate the Fiscal Responsibility Act as a measure to control discretionary spending.
Prof. Quartey warned that failing to do so could exacerbate Ghana’s debt situation, especially as the country approaches the 2024 election year, despite the ongoing implementation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) US$3 billion loan-support program.
Prof. Quartey conveyed this message during a media interview following a forum held on Monday, September 18, in Accra, which centered on “Ghana’s public debt management: facts, impact, and the way forward.
“The Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2018 (Act 982), mandates the Government to ensure that the overall fiscal balance on a cash basis for a given year does not exceed a deficit of five percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for that year.
However, the Act was suspended in 2020 due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the Government anticipated that it would not be able to meet the five percent deficit threshold until at least 2024.
While the primary objective of the Act is to maintain macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability by limiting fiscal deficits within the five percent cap, Ghana had a fiscal deficit of 11.4 percent of GDP at the time of its suspension.
Prof. Quartey highlighted how this situation contributed to Ghana’s substantial debt burden, ultimately leading to the country’s 17th loan-support program with the IMF.
He urged Parliament to reinstate the suspended Act.Prof. Quartey, who is also an Economist, noted that Parliament has the authority to oversee both the Central Bank and the Finance Ministry but fell short in exercising this oversight.
He stressed the importance of establishing rules to govern discretionary spending, as uncontrolled discretionary behavior can lead to financial crises. He also recommended that in times of financial hardship, Parliament should temporarily suspend the Fiscal Responsibility Act but with a predefined timeline for review and renewal.
To ensure accountability, Prof. Quartey proposed punitive measures for individuals who violate the Act.During the forum, Dr. Sam Mensah, a Financial Economist and Investment Banking Consultant, echoed the importance of fiscal prudence in guaranteeing debt sustainability.
He called for a constitutional review to limit the government’s discretionary spending and borrowing powers, alongside policies aimed at fortifying the financial sector.
Dr. Mensah emphasized that such measures were essential because during economic crises, the financial sector tends to suffer more due to its significant exposure to government lending.
George Afriyie, the former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), is poised to pursue his case as a final recourse by seeking resolution through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and the National Independent Tribunal.
This decision follows the recent ruling by the Appeals Committee, which affirmed the GFA Elections Committee’s decision to disqualify George Afriyie from participating in the GFA Presidential elections.
In an exclusive interview with the media, George Afriyie’s legal representative, Esq. Richmond Saaka, disclosed that his client is fully committed to exploring all available avenues to address this matter.
“I have instructions from the client [George Afriyie], the instructions are based on the advice he has been given and the advice is informed by the very same GFA statutes and regulations.
“The statutes and regulations say that you can file an appeal if you are not happy with a certain decision and then you can head to the Court of Arbitration for Sports or the National Independent Arbitration Tribunal to deal with (an) appeal that arises.
“So we believe that, per the rules of the GFA, these are available options, we will head to the Court of Arbitration for Sports or engage the National Independent Arbitration Tribunal to help us appeal the decision of the Appeals Committee of the Ghana Football Association because that is what the statutes of the FA provide.”
The original election date, initially scheduled for September 27, faces increased uncertainty due to a court injunction filed by King Faisal. Consequently, the hearing has been adjourned for the third time, with the new date set for September 28, 2023.
Legal documents from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) have revealed that the former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, utilized aliases to conceal transactions related to undisclosed real estate business.
“The OSP’s criminal intelligence further suggested that the first respondent, as a Minister of State, was engaged in an undisclosed and undeclared real estate business in which she obscured and concealed the transactions by employing the use of aliases to avoid detection of the actual ownership of the business and properties, while cleverly receiving the proceeds of the transactions in her bank accounts and investments.”
Per reports the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) also uncovered information suggesting that Cecilia Dapaah, the former Sanitation Minister, had substantial amounts of unexplained cash concealed within her residence.
These amounts far exceeded what would be expected from her income as a Minister of State. Additionally, it was alleged that her domestic staff had reportedly pilfered a portion of these funds through theft.
This revelation marks the most recent initiative by the Office of the Special Prosecutor aimed at validating the confiscation of suspected ill-gotten properties linked to Cecilia Dapaah.
“There are no financial records and traces of the origin(s) of the money reportedly stolen from the residence of the respondents and the money discovered by the OSP at said residence. Further, there is no evidence of the amounts of money having been derived from any legitimate businesses, profession or vocation, and no evidence of said amounts having been lawfully declared and subjected to any statutory payments.
“During the search conducted in her presence, the first respondent disavowed and claimed no knowledge of the presence of the said cash sums in the residence. The conduct of the first respondent, being a public officer, heightened the suspicion of the authorised officers of the OSP that the cash sums were tainted property.”
These events unfolded in the aftermath of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) taking action on Monday, September 11, by filing a motion in the High Court to seek confirmation of the seizure and freezing orders concerning the financial assets of the former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah.
A hearing for this matter is scheduled for October 18, 2023.
Initially, the OSP had frozen both the Cedi and Dollar bank accounts owned by the former minister on August 9. However, the decision was subsequently overturned by the High Court in Accra on August 31. The court ruled that the funds seized from Cecilia Dapaah should be returned to her within seven days, and it directed the OSP to unfreeze her accounts.
In response, the OSP exercised its legal authority to regain custody of the funds, a move made shortly after the High Court’s directive to return the seized money.
An expert in International Relations and Security, Professor Vladimir Antwi-Danso, has raised concerns about Africa’s susceptibility to recruitment efforts by the Wagner private military group.
He believes that the continent’s large population of unemployed youth creates an environment that is conducive to the Wagner group’s recruitment activities, which in turn could facilitate their operations in Africa.
While acknowledging that Wagner, as a private security group, has the right to recruit globally, Professor Antwi-Danso suggests that their recruitment efforts in Africa may be influenced by the region’s high unemployment rates.
These concerns have arisen in the wake of the arrest of three young individuals who organized a public gathering in Diabene, within the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, where they were observed wearing and displaying the flags of Wagner and Russia.
The suspects have been identified as Evans, 25, Michael Asiedu, 23, and Ernest Asiedu, 26.
In an interview with Citi News on Tuesday, September 19, Professor Antwi-Danso called on security agencies to investigate whether the Wagner group is actively recruiting individuals from Ghana or financing specific activities within the country.
He emphasized the importance of vigilance among Ghanaian security agencies to identify and monitor potential security threats, particularly those with affiliations to external organizations.
Furthermore, he stressed the necessity of thorough investigations into any covert activities within Ghana that might have security implications. He cautioned that if it is determined that the Wagner group is recruiting from Ghana, there could be security concerns when these recruits return after completing their assignments.
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has reiterated that the government has an outstanding debt of approximately $80 million owed to the Authority for the production of Ghana Cards.
According to Professor Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah, the Executive Secretary of the Authority, the government has not fully settled these outstanding payments.
Earlier this year, some partners of NIA, including Identity Management Systems, held back over 3.5 million cards due to the government’s failure to clear its debts.
While a payment of 100 million cedis by the Finance Minister led to the release of these cards, the accumulation of debt, including interest over the past six months, is now posing a threat to the registration process.
Prof. Attafuah emphasized, “the government of Ghana owes us approximately $80 million, and this is still in USD, so it’s a significant sum of money that the government needs to pay.”
He also noted that the debt had initially been around $90 million and had increased due to additional arrears, which were part of a government support agreement.
“Government of Ghana was so convinced about the viability of this project and it is still extremely viable that it undertook to basically underwrite any revenues that should have gone to the private partner for any given month if the project doesn’t generate revenue,” he said.
He further explained that the government was confident in the project’s viability and had undertaken to underwrite any revenues that should have gone to the private partner in case the project didn’t generate revenue.
In light of the upcoming 2024 general election, the Electoral Commission (EC) is planning a mass voter registration exercise for next year. A proposed Constitutional Instrument (C.I) is seeking to rely solely on the Ghana Card as the primary means of identification.
Prof. Attafuah stated that the NIA possesses reliable data that can aid the EC in conducting a credible registration exercise. He highlighted that the NIA can readily provide the required data to the EC, ensuring a seamless collaboration.
Furthermore, the Executive Secretary of NIA revealed that the Authority, in partnership with the Births and Deaths Registry, would begin issuing Ghana Cards to newborn babies following a successful pilot program.
Babies will be assigned a unique serial number at birth by the Births and Deaths Registry, linking their birth certificate to the Ghana Card. This initiative aims to eliminate controversies surrounding citizenship, age, and identity management issues in Ghana, providing a reliable and comprehensive system for managing citizen data.
“This is an internal contest to elect our flagbearer, so why should I attack my opponents or say something against our party?
“I am running a very decent campaign. I am selling my ideas to delegates and I do that with decorum, with humility, with respect and without mentioning anybody’s name,” he added. He also revealed that he has instructed his campaign team and spokesperson not to engage in attacks or insults, even if he is subjected to such treatment by other aspirants. He emphasized the importance of conducting the contest based on ideas and not resorting to personal attacks, emphasizing his commitment to unity within the party.
Vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has stated that he has no intention of engaging in attacks against his contenders for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership position.
He emphasized that such attacks would be detrimental to the party.
Dr. Bawumia stressed that instead of attacking his opponents, his focus is on sharing his ideas and highlighting the achievements of the government.
Speaking at an event with NPP stakeholders in Goaso in the Ahafo Region, he underscored the importance of maintaining a positive and respectful tone within the party.
He expressed his belief that attacking fellow party members in an internal contest would be counterproductive when the primary goal of all NPP members is to secure victory for the party in the 2024 elections against the opposition National Democratic Congress.
“I don’t believe in attacking my opponents and I won’t do that because it will be toxic and won’t be good for our party,” Dr. Bawumia said.
“This is an internal contest to elect our flagbearer, so why should I attack my opponents or say something against our party?
“I am running a very decent campaign. I am selling my ideas to delegates and I do that with decorum, with humility, with respect and without mentioning anybody’s name,” he added.
He also revealed that he has instructed his campaign team and spokesperson not to engage in attacks or insults, even if he is subjected to such treatment by other aspirants.
He emphasized the importance of conducting the contest based on ideas and not resorting to personal attacks, emphasizing his commitment to unity within the party.
The Ghana National Gas Company held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the initiation of construction on a 200-bed hospital at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR).
The hospital project aims to cater to the healthcare needs of students, staff, and the broader Sunyani community.
The construction will be carried out in two phases, with the first phase focusing on 80 beds to relocate the UENR Clinic within the school campus. The entire project is slated for completion within a 24-month timeframe.
Upon completion, the hospital will feature specialized facilities including a dental block, eye clinic, outpatient department (OPD), separate medical blocks for male and female patients, a pediatric ward, pharmacy and laboratory units, a main theater, surgical blocks, consulting rooms, and specialized units for internal medicine, child health, maternal health, and emergencies.
Additionally, an administration block will house the health service directorate.Prof. Nsiah Gyabaah, the Chair of the University Council, expressed gratitude for the gas company’s initiative, emphasizing the significance of healthcare facilities for the community.
He welcomed attendees and expressed hope that the hospital would enhance healthcare provision for students and the broader community.
Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, the Vice Chancellor of the University, stressed the importance of the hospital project in addressing the inadequacies of the current clinic and contributing to the development of the university and its community.
He envisioned the hospital becoming a center for medical research and training, providing essential healthcare services to both the campus and the local community.
The Vice Chancellor commended the Ghana National Gas Company and its CEO, Dr. Ben Asante, for their support and commitment to the university and the community.
Anyimah Edomgbole, the Manager at Ghana Gas in charge of Corporate Social Responsibility, assured attendees of the company’s dedication to providing quality healthcare and supporting education, water and sanitation, and sports in the country.
The sod-cutting ceremony was attended by representatives from the Ghana Health Service, UENR, the community, faculty deans, lecturers, and students.
A survivor of the tragic Appiatse explosion, William Asiedu Bentil, has opened up about the devastating impact the incident has had on his life.
Although he looks well physically, he has revealed that he can no longer perform sexually.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Bentil also shared the challenges he and other survivors are facing. He mentioned that he can barely see at night due to the trauma from the explosion.
The explosion not only left physical scars but also deeply affected the lives of those who survived.
During an interview with the media, Mr. Bentil expressed the dire situation that many survivors find themselves in, as they struggle to make ends meet.
He, as a father of four, highlighted the heartbreaking consequences the explosion had on his family.
Two of his children have become deformed, one dropped out of school, and another has become a truant. He went on to explain that his church had provided financial assistance of GH¢4000 to cover school fees, but the overall financial burden remains overwhelming. “One of my children has become a truant, the other has dropped out of the university and one suffered serious hand injuries. It is my church that supported me with GH¢4000 to pay fees. Most of us who sustained serious injuries are suffering,” he added.
Mr. Bentil and others who sustained serious injuries continue to face immense challenges even after the government covered their hospital bills. Their livelihoods according to hm, have been severely impacted, leaving them in a state of uncertainty and financial struggle.
In a plea for help, Mr. Bentil emphasized the need for capital to improve their economic circumstances, as merely having shelter without a source of income is not enough to provide for their families and regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.
“If you build me a house and there is no source of income for me and my family to feed, how do I sleep peacefully with all these problems? After government foot the hospital bills, we were discharged even though some had not fully recovered. Things are very difficult so we need capital,” he added.
Recalling the tragic incident on January 20, 2022, when a vehicle transporting mining explosives crashed, resulting in an explosive-induced fire that claimed the lives of approximately 13 individuals at Appiatse.
In a positive development, Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee, the Chairperson of the Appiatse Support Fund, disclosed that substantial support has been mobilized for the community’s recovery endeavor.
According to him, the fund has successfully garnered GHC62 million in donations, all dedicated to expediting the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Appiatse township, which suffered devastating losses due to the fire in the early part of last year.
The Chairperson for the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has announced plans for another voter’s registration exercise in 2024.
She clarified that this registration process would be continuous, spanning an extended duration and conducted at the EC’s district offices.
Addressing concerns during a press conference in Accra on Monday, September 18, 2023, Jean Mensa also disclosed that, alongside the continuous voter’s registration, there would be a limited voter’s registration exercise in specific electoral areas in preparation for the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
“In the lead up to the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections, we will roll out a continuous registration of voters for several months at District Offices. Additionally, we will undertake a limited mop-up registration exercise in selected electoral areas,” she said.
Jean Mensa addressed criticisms regarding her previous stance against holding registration at district offices during her tenure as Executive Director of the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) in 2016.
She clarified that the circumstances were distinct, as the 2016 registration occurred during an election year, unlike the upcoming 2024 registration.
Furthermore, she emphasized that the 2024 voter registration process would differ from the ongoing limited voter’s registration and the one conducted in 2016.
Kennedy Agyapong, a presidential hopeful representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed his concern about the party’s performance in its stronghold, the Ashanti Region.
During an interview with the media on September 18, 2023, Mr Agyapong asserted that the Ashanti people had valid reasons to be dissatisfied with the government’s efforts because the development initiatives introduced by NPP administrations in the region were significantly inadequate.
He emphasized that individuals in the Ashanti Region who played a pivotal role in bringing the Akufo-Addo government to power felt neglected.
“They (Ashantis) can complain. I am going to speak the truth because there is time to salvage the situation. The policy of the NPP has been ‘help your neighbour and hate yourself’.
“Let me give you an example, there are some businessmen in the Ashanti Region who helped the NPP, since we came to power, we have ignored them completely… The Ashanti Region is the stronghold of the NPP but look at the kind of development here, I’m afraid,” he said in Twi.
Illustrating his point further, he cited instances of Ashanti Region-based businessmen who had supported the NPP but had not received due attention since the party assumed power.
Mr Agyapong lamented the current state of development in the Ashanti Region, given its pivotal role as the NPP’s stronghold.
Mr Agyapong, who serves as the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, criticized ministers from the Ashanti Region in the Akufo-Addo government for their failure to spearhead significant developmental projects in the region.
He expressed disappointment in their performance and vowed to remain steadfast in speaking the truth without fear of reprisal.
Ghanaian blogger Sika Kwaku Dennis, popularly known as Sika Official has rapidly gained fame for his significant influence on Twitter.
Within less than 2 years, this GH Media alumnus and part-time videographer has made a notable mark.
He has gained a reputation for openly expressing his views on events and progress within the continent.
During interviews, Sika Official he shared that his remarkable achievements did not come easily or on a silver platter, emphasizing the pivotal role his mother played in his journey to success.
His mother’s relentless hard work and sacrifices ensured that he had the opportunity to receive an education and wear a clean school uniform.
Sika recounted how he witnessed his mother’s dedication, waking up early to prepare them for school while managing her own business. Despite her immense efforts, he emphasized the need for additional support for his hardworking mother.
There were times when the family faced difficulties due to business downturns, leaving them wondering how to sustain themselves. However, they persevered and found a way to survive during these tough times.
Sika’s upbringing, particularly assisting his mother in selling roasted plantains, provided him valuable life lessons and helped shape his character.
Reflecting on his journey, Sika revealed that just four years ago, he was a laborer, hustling tirelessly to make ends meet.
Fast forward to 2021, he received accolades as the winner of the Pulse Blogger Influencer Of The Year. Not long after, he clinched yet another prestigious award at an event held at Labadi Beach Hotel – the Outstanding Blogger of the Year award.
In this award category, Sika Official emerged victorious, surpassing competition from other popular Ghanaian bloggers like ZIONFELIX and GH Kwaku.
This award marked his 5th consecutive win out of 11 nominations, all achieved within a span of less than 2 years.
A video has surfaced online featuring Sarah Adwoa Safo, the Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, serving individuals at a public gathering believed to be within her constituency.
The video was shared on Twitter (now known as X), capturing the MP personally distributing snacks to people gathered beneath a canopy. Carrying a tray and assisted by some women in her vicinity, Sarah Adwoa Safo handed out frozen ice-creams to those seated nearby.
While the specific occasion is not clearly identified, it’s important to note that the Electoral Commission of Ghana has commenced a Limited Voter Registration exercise aimed at enrolling individuals who reached the age of 18 after the previous registration event.
On her Facebook page, the Dome-Kwabenya MP promoted this initiative with a flyer, encouraging all eligible residents in her constituency to participate.
The registration drive, which commenced on September 12, is scheduled to conclude on October 2, 2023.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Okaikwei North, Boye Laryea, has revealed plans to conduct an emergency Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) meeting today in response to the reported attack by masked individuals at the Electoral Commission (EC) district office.
This development follows reports of an assault by masked individuals on Ghanaians waiting to register for their Voter ID Cards at the Okaikwei North District office of the EC in Achimota on Sunday morning.
Mr. Laryea, in an interview with the media, stated that precautionary measures are being implemented to ensure a smooth and incident-free voter registration process.
“If you go there now, you will realise that we have provided some barricades. And what necessitated these arrangements was the fact that according to the NPP initially, the NDC guys came and erected a canopy and provided seats so they don’t allow any other person if they don’t know you.
“So they were bringing in their people and were not allowing the NPP people to occupy the seats. So that is what brought the confusion. And so what I did was to report to the EC madam to provide canopies and seats for the people so they can move the NDC canopies and chairs…these barricades are also helping to make sure that people don’t cross when it is not their turn.”
“We should also know that the place is a security area because we have the court, we have both magistrate court and district court. And so we are putting all these measures in place to ensure that it doesn’t disrupt the courts’ activities.
“This afternoon we are having a meeting to analyse the whole situation to see what we can put in place to make sure that what happened will never reoccur,” he stated.
The residents and business proprietors affected by the CMB fire incident have declined the proposal from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to relocate to an alternative site for assistance.
NADMO reports that about 800 people have been impacted by the incident. However, persuading them to move from the area has been unsuccessful as they are anxious about being forcibly evacuated.
In an interview with the media Daniel Odei-Appiah, the Korley Klottey Municipal Coordinator of NADMO, said, “Individuals involved are about 805 now on our records. We need to do auditing on that and also the structure that has been destroyed by the fire.”
“We need to know the number of structures completely destroyed and items that were in the structures. A disaster like this, we don’t need you here, we need to move you to a safe place and provide you with those things, but you say you are not going. I should provide you with the things here which is against the protocols,”
Frederick Quansah, the Assembly Member for the area, mentioned that they have lost faith in NADMO’s attempts to offer support due to past failures in similar circumstances. He stated, “Whenever NADMO officials come, they just take names, and they don’t provide us with anything. We haven’t received anything from them in the four consecutive fire incidents we have experienced, which is why I don’t want to engage with them.”
The fire, starting around 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, engulfed hundreds of homes and shops, leaving numerous residents stranded. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) dispatched firefighters to the scene, but the fire had already spread extensively.
ADO1 Alex Nartey, a Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, reported the discovery of several flammable objects at the fire scene. Many shops were completely destroyed by the time the fire was extinguished, frustrating and disappointing the affected traders who had lost everything.
The Electoral Commission (EC) office in the Tamale Metropolis has expressed deep concern regarding what it describes as attempts by political parties to include ineligible voters in the registration process.
The Tamale Metro Director of the Commission, Bismark Nteh, expressed dismay that despite numerous discussions with political parties to discourage this unlawful practice, their efforts have proven ineffective.
Mr. Nteh is apprehensive that this misconduct may have future repercussions for the individuals involved when their falsified ages come back to haunt them. Consequently, he urged parents to dissuade their children from engaging in such activities.
“I would like to implore parents not to allow political parties to deceive them into thinking that by inflating the number of registrants, they will achieve their desired goals. These children will face consequences in the future. There will come a time when they will need their actual ages for something, and it will negatively impact them,” stated the Tamale Metro Director of the Electoral Commission in the Northern Region.
In a related development, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has squarely blamed the Electoral Commission for disruptions during the ongoing limited voter registration process.
This accusation follows an alleged attack on citizens who had gathered to register for their Voter ID Cards at the Okaikwei North District office of the Electoral Commission in Achimota on Sunday morning.
NDC Constituency Chairman for Okaikwei North, Gregory Quarshie, emphasized the critical importance of well-prepared and efficient electoral processes to maintain a secure and smooth environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
“This is an issue artificially created by the EC because people arrive early, but they are not registered on time. The entire EC must take responsibility,” remarked the NDC Constituency Chairman for Okaikwei North.
However, the Greater Accra Regional Branch of the NDC has decided to provide transportation for individuals who may find it challenging to access registration centers.
According to Regional Chairman Emmanuel Nii Ashie-Moore, this step is necessary to ensure that many party members who have reached the age of 18 and above are registered.
This decision comes in response to calls from some political parties for the EC to increase the number of registration centers for the exercise scheduled from September 12 to October 2, 2023.
These parties argued that the 268 EC district offices designated for the exercise were insufficient to meet the demand.
Former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has disclosed that he personally financed the inception of the National Cardiothoracic Centre at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in April 1992.
In an interview with the media, the former head of the Centre shared the remarkable journey behind its establishment, revealing that upon his return from Germany, he arrived without any personal belongings as he had sold everything to kickstart the Centre’s operations.
“When I came down from Germany, I didn’t even come down with any household items, I used all my money to buy medical equipment to start that [National Cardiothoracic Centre] Centre.
“The government was not prepared to build a place for the [National Cardiothoracic Centre] centre and the Germans gave us some money for the equipment and the government was not ready and I had to use my own money with others who helped and then we built the [National Cardiothoracic Centre] centre.”
Professor Frimpong-Boateng also disclosed that the Centre had recently encountered challenges that were actively being addressed to ensure that Ghanaians receive the necessary cardiac medical care when required.
“I knew that they had problems and I know they are being addressed gradually. There were quite a number of issues that need to be addressed and they are being addressed.”
In relation to the alleged rape and murder of an 18-year-old apprentice in Anwiankwanta within the Bekwai Municipality of the Ashanti Region, two individuals have been apprehended.
Bekwai’s Municipal Chief Executive, Kwaku Kyei Baffour, made this revelation following a municipal security meeting addressing the distressing incident.
These suspects were reported to have interacted with the victim shortly before her tragic demise.
Expressing confidence in the ongoing investigation by the Ghana Police Service, the Municipal Chief Executive emphasized their determination to ensure the culprits face justice, asserting that despite attempts to evade authorities, they would ultimately be held accountable.
The lifeless body of the victim, Georgina Agyemang, was discovered in an unfinished building near her residence. Eyewitnesses noted that her body was found partially unclothed, bearing visible injuries, raising concerns of potential rape and murder.
Acknowledging the escalating fear and tension within the community, Frank Awuah, the assembly member for the area, stressed the urgent need for implementing enhanced security measures to protect the residents.
He pointed out a prior incident three months ago involving the killing of a three-month-old baby, a mother, and another individual, emphasizing the critical need to find lasting solutions to such recurring tragic events.
Highlighting the importance of supporting security services, he urged citizens to actively contribute by volunteering and advocating for improved security measures in the country to meet international standards.
The Western Regional Police Command has initiated legal proceedings against three youths from Diabene in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis suspected to be affiliated with Russia’s Wagner mercenary group.
The arrests ensued from a public gathering organized by the youths, where they openly displayed and wore flags representing Wagner and Russia.
The individuals apprehended have been identified as Evans, 25 years old, Michael Asiedu, 23 years old, and Ernest Asiedu, 26 years old.
Allegedly supported by a sponsor from Australia, these three individuals mobilized approximately 20 youths to establish a military group in the Diabene community park. Acting on a tip-off, the police arrested them to forestall their plans.
Ramatu Ibrahim, the Assemblywoman of Fijai overseeing Diabene, verified the incident and expressed astonishment, urging for their prosecution.
She revealed that the boys claimed they were conducting a demonstration for freedom, practicing how to engage in conflict against the government. They were seen hoisting various flags representing different countries and playing national anthems.
According to her, the influential leader of the group is based abroad, and the leader in Ghana is 25 years old. Upon police interrogation, the youths apparently realized the gravity of their actions. It was reported that they were promised financial incentives if their planned action achieved success.
Mensah Promise, also known as “The Spinner,” was arrested alongside the suspects for providing music during the gathering. He mentioned they have already appeared in court twice at the Takoradi Circuit Court and are presently out on bail.
The Western Regional Police Command confirmed the incident and assured that further details would be provided soon.
Ghanaian Reggae and Dancehall icon, Samini, exudes confidence in his ability to single-handedly fill London’s renowned O2 Arena, provided he receives the necessary support.
He explained that his global appeal and captivating stage presence as factors that could attract fans from across the globe, as he emphasized during an interview on the Day Show with Berla Mundi that, with the appropriate investment and promotional efforts, he could maximize the arena’s capacity, playfully referring to himself as “Batman” and underlining his international recognition in the realm of music.
“By myself I will fill it , with the right investment, I will fill it you are talking to Batman before I became Samini. Batman, the Mobo Award winner. Kenya King knows Batman. You are talking to people who know that brand.
“If the right things are put in place, and you promote Samini in London, for four months, six months, three months. I will fill that space,” he declared.
Nevertheless, Samini made it clear that he would not undertake such an ambitious venture independently, expressing his lack of faith in Ghanaian investors to provide full backing for such a project. He pointed out that in his past attempts to engage with Ghanaian investors, their commitments often remained unfulfilled, which has contributed to his skepticism regarding their reliability in this regard.
“I’m not gonna take that money and go and do this because a Ghanaian wants to see the place full. Hell no, no Ghanaian investor is going to do that.
“I don’t have to trust them; it is not in our culture to dish out funds like that. That’s how they are, you can never change them. The typical Ghanaian investor will chill with you but will never give you, say, $5,000 and say, ‘Let’s have a business plan about your career,” he stated
The relationship between Nigerian actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington and singer Banky W has been a source of admiration and inspiration for many fans. Despite their public display of affection, Adesua emphasizes that their strong bond didn’t magically happen but was a result of hard work.
In a revelation during a church service at Waterbrooks Church in Lagos on a Sunday, Adesua shared that they had built a deep friendship over the course of their relationship, which has played a significant role in the growth of their marriage.
She also disclosed that she had initially placed Banky W in the friend zone for over a year.
“I friend-zoned him for two reasons. One, I wasn’t sure that I had heard from God about whether this person was my person. Three reasons. Second, marrying Banky W. I was like, ‘my life on my own is chaotic enough, I would now marry Banky? No, no, no’.”
“And then thirdly, just trying to at least have a friendship. And I honestly believe that the friendship we laid over a year and a half ago has played a very big role in how our relationship is today,” she said.
Adesua explained that should they put romance aside, Banky W still remains her person and best friend regardless.
“I would like to say that friendship plays a very big role in laying the foundation of your relationship…Banky W is my guy. I mean if you take away romance and s3x and everything that makes a marriage, he would still be my guy. Banky is my best friend,” she noted.
The pair tied the knot at a decorated wedding ceremony in 2017. In February 2021, the couple revealed that they had welcomed a baby in January that year.
After making their pregnancy announcement, Adesua Etomi-Wellington and Banky W candidly shared their challenging journey to parenthood. In April 2021, Adesua disclosed that she had experienced the heartbreak of a miscarriage despite initially being pregnant with twins.
During the same month, Banky W opened up about their struggles, revealing that he and his wife had encountered significant difficulties conceiving and had undergone three unsuccessful attempts at in vitro fertilization (IVF). In an interview where he openly discussed their experiences, the singer explained that they had seriously considered surrogacy as a viable option to fulfill their desire for a child.
Throughout this challenging process, they had to endure hurtful comments and mockery from some individuals on social media who were insensitive to their plight, despite the fact that they had been married for a few years without having children.
The annual Ghana Theatre Festival, organized by the National Theatre of Ghana, is set to commence on Tuesday, September 26th, and will conclude on Sunday, October 1st. This year’s festival is themed “Celebrating Ghanaian culture and heritage through partnerships and linkages.”
The upcoming Ghana Theatre Festival aims to provide a platform for various artists and performing art groups in Ghana to showcase their works and talents, as well as enhance their capabilities in Theatre Production. Furthermore, the festival strives to offer potential theatre audiences a wide range of high-quality productions at an affordable cost, with the hope of fostering a dedicated following for theatrical events at the National Theatre.
The festival’s lineup includes a Theatre program for schools featuring “Son of Umbelle,” a fashion show, a film exhibition, stand-up comedy, dramatic performances, and an art exhibition highlighting authentic artifacts and locally made products from Ghana.
Additionally, there’s an event called “GHROBICS,” which combines aerobic exercises with traditional dances, drumming, and music to provide a holistic physical workout while also imparting traditional dance and movement skills.
The festival will kick off with the performance of “Efu PƆnkƆ,” featuring all three resident groups of the National Theatre, including the National Dance Company, National Symphony Orchestra, and National Drama Company, on Friday, September 29th at 7 pm.
Numerous other groups will participate in the festival, including Agape Arts Production, 2 Idiots Production, the Department of Fashion Design and Textiles from Accra Technical University, Ghana Academy of Films and Television Arts, EN Academy, Addis Dance, 2 Cute Entertainment, Robdy’s Production, and the Visual Arts Students Empowerment Project.
Joyce Bekoe, the Public Relations Officer of the National Theatre, emphasized that the festival’s productions aim to promote positive national values.
“The annual Ghana Theatre Festival forms part of the National Theatre’s efforts to fulfil its mandate to develop and promote the performing arts in Ghana,” she stated.
Stanley Omah Didia, the well-known Nigerian artist recognized as Omah Lay, openly disclosed that the abrupt surge in his fame had a detrimental effect on his mental well-being, sharing this revelation during the recent installment of the Afrobeats Podcast.
In his candid discussion, particularly focusing on his experience as the ‘Soso Crooner,’ he admitted to an initial struggle in grappling with the pressures of newfound celebrity status but eventually managed to find a sense of equilibrium and stability in managing the demands of his growing prominence.
“It was a jump; at first I struggled, and it put me in a bad mental state because I was still trying to learn my ways. However, with time, I got more comfortable and learned that I’m running my race and that I should move at my own pace.
“There was pressure. You don’t expect to move from one crappy laptop or spending all your life in the studio to being a global superstar. It’s just like they brought you from just starting music production to this right here (points at equipment in the studio): ‘You go lost.’
“As soon as I learned and realised that, I became much stronger and started to enjoy my life more.”
Omah Lay also stated he had no issues coming out to the public to talk about his vulnerabilities.
“If I can put my vulnerabilities in my song, then I can talk about them. My music is all about my real-life experiences, and I know everybody in the world is listening to it.”
Omah Lay, renowned for his hit tracks including “Soweto,” “Forever,” “Understand,” “Godly,” and “Bad Influence,” has previously shared his personal struggle with thoughts of suicide and depression, shedding light on the emotional challenges he has faced.
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“Mohbad just died, it broke me down so much, you go on instagram & everyone is vibing in the club, everybody has moved on”
The renowned dancehall artist, Shatta Wale, stirred up tremendous excitement and fervor among his admirers in the capital of the Ashanti Region, Kumasi, as he was observed engaging in a spontaneous act of benevolence by generously distributing money to his enthusiastic supporters.
Shatta Wale’s arrival at Kumasi International Airport was met with a heartfelt and enthusiastic reception, as a dedicated throng of fans eagerly congregated to greet him and accompany him to his awaiting vehicle.
The occasion for Shatta Wale’s visit was the launch of a new lottery game in Ghana, and the artist arrived at the airport exuding confidence, dressed in a stylish ensemble consisting of a blue sweatpants and a hoodie. To ensure his personal security, he was flanked by two imposing bodyguards dressed in black, who remained by his side throughout his journey.
As Shatta Wale made his way into the midst of the jubilant crowd, a group of ecstatic fans eagerly surrounded him, further enhancing the electric atmosphere of the moment.
In a captured video footage, the diligent bodyguards diligently upheld their responsibilities by safeguarding Shatta Wale, ensuring that his security was preserved amidst the exuberant and fervent crowd.
Seated in the comfort of his vehicle, Shatta Wale remained unwavering in displaying his deep affection for his dedicated supporters.
To the delight of his fans, he proceeded to make their day by enthusiastically tossing money into the enthusiastic crowd, thereby igniting even greater levels of excitement and jubilation among those fortunate enough to receive the unexpected financial gifts.
A 14-year-old class six pupil named Akwasi Opoku lost his life as he drowned in River Numia at Ataase Nkwanta.
The unfortunate incident occurred when the young boy ventured to the riverside with some of his friends and made the decision to go swimming, a decision that resulted in his untimely demise.
A spokesperson representing the grieving family, while confirming the heartbreaking news, expressed the profound sorrow and devastation that had befallen them. Asante Boateng Abusuapanin further revealed the additional hardship faced by Akwasi Opoku, who had recently lost his grandparents, the ones who had been raising him.
The Abusuapanin expressed hope that the boy’s body would be recovered so that he could receive a dignified burial.
In the midst of this tragic situation, local traditionalists in the community have demanded offerings, including eggs, schnapps, and minerals, to perform rituals intended to aid in locating the boy’s body.
The loss of Akwasi Opoku has left the residents in a state of shock and sorrow, with many recognizing the significant impact his passing will have on their close-knit community.
