Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

Inhabitants of Godenu and Wegbee, located in the Hohoe Municipality of the Volta Region, have leveled accusations against the police, citing them as responsible for the destruction of numerous properties within their locality.

According to the locals, the police officers pursued an individual suspected of transporting illicit substances, and this pursuit resulted in a collision involving the said suspect.

Allegedly, the young residents, under the impression that the apprehended individual had been intentionally harmed, purportedly initiated the act of setting fire to the police vehicle. This action subsequently triggered a forceful response from the police towards the community.

Furthermore, the inhabitants have made additional claims asserting that the police were involved in the incineration of motorcycles and the vandalization of car windshields.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a warning to the government, urging it to refrain from engaging in activities that might lead the nation towards a coup.

The recent takeover in Gabon marks another instance in a series of coup events that have occurred in recent years. This incident follows closely after soldiers assumed control in Niger just a month ago.

The NDC’s General Secretary, Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, stressed the underlying factors that often contribute to coups, advising the government to be attentive to the concerns of the populace.

Addressing journalists in Accra, Kwetey of the NDC stated, “It is crucial to allow the people to determine leadership instead of persisting in a regressive fixation on undermining institutions and monopolizing power as soon as it’s attained.”

“This practice involves undermining opposing businesses, cultivating an environment that obstructs potential competitors, and concurrently showing readiness to intervene militarily in other nations facing coups, all while inadvertently fostering conditions conducive to a similar upheaval within your own country.”

Certain coup orchestrators attribute their actions to deficiencies in governance, unmet citizen entitlements, and widespread frustration, among other factors.

In Gabon, multitudes of citizens and residents have taken to the streets, celebrating the recent military coup in their nation.

Reports from Sahara Reporters earlier detailed how numerous Gabonese soldiers appeared on television, announcing their intervention to “terminate the existing regime” and nullify an election that, as per official outcomes, saw President Ali Bongo Ondimba emerge victorious.

Footage of Gabonese people marching joyfully through the streets showcased exultant residents brandishing their national flag and expressing gratitude towards the military for their role in liberation.

However, on August 30th, Gabon’s president released a message, urging “friends worldwide” to raise awareness about the coup in Gabon, as a video of him circulated on social media. In the video, Ali Bongo voiced uncertainty about the situation, mentioning the whereabouts of his family members.

On Wednesday, August 30 2023, President Akufo-Addo officially inaugurated the Electrochem Salt Mine located in Sege, within the Ada West district of the Greater Accra Region.

Managed by the McDan Group, the mine presently has the capability to generate approximately 650,000 metric tons of salt annually.

The mine’s production capacity is anticipated to rise to one million metric tons by 2024 and further escalate to two million metric tons by 2027. This development positions it as the largest salt-producing establishment across Africa.

In his address during the event, President Akufo-Addo highlighted that over the course of 54 years, successive administrations have endeavored to fully exploit the potential of the Songhor Lagoon without success.

He expressed his satisfaction that, under his leadership, the Songhor Lagoon is at last being put to full use to benefit the residents of Ada and the entire nation.

“I am glad that under the government of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Songhor Lagoon is being brought into full production for the benefit of residents of Ada and citizens of the entire nation,” he said.

President Akufo-Addo attributed the accomplishment to Mr. Daniel McKorley, also known as McDan, commending him as an exceptional entrepreneur who has made history as an indigenous Ghanaian businessperson owning one of Africa’s major extractive industries.

The President recollected a news story from the lead-up to the 2008 elections, where he was surprised to learn that Nigeria was planning to import a substantial amount of salt from Brazil. He underlined the potential economic impact of Ghana supplying $2 billion worth of salt to Nigeria, a commodity that many West African nations usually import from other continents.

President Akufo-Addo expressed his support for value-added initiatives and noted that Electrochem is constructing a salt refinery and a nearby port to export refined salt products to the broader African market.

Given Accra’s role as the hub of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, he displayed confidence that the projected revenues of around $1 billion for the company would be exceeded.

The President acknowledged the contributions of the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area, Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III, and the people of Ada in facilitating the project’s success.

President Akufo-Addo also acknowledged a request made by McDan for the construction of significant road projects leading to the mine. He assured that he would forward these requests to the Minister for Roads and Highways and personally oversee their realization.

Emphasizing Ghana’s potential for business in West Africa, he stressed that it offers an ideal blend of mineral resources, stable regulations, favorable fiscal conditions, and socially responsible mining practices in Africa.

Concluding his remarks, President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his belief that Ghana is an exciting destination for business and economic growth under his government’s guidance, fostering a thriving private sector within a well-developed market economy.

A non-governmental organization, ActionAid Ghana (AAG), has successfully rescued two children who were trafficked into Ghana for exploitative work.

The first child, a 14-year-old girl from Togo, was rescued about two months ago from a farming community in the Jaman South Municipality. The second child, a boy from Burkina Faso, was rescued in the Banda District in the Bono Region during the same period.

Nana Afram Denkyira, the Bono East/Ahafo Regional Programmes Manager for ActionAid Ghana, explained that with the assistance of the Department of Social Welfare and other relevant institutions, these minors have been repatriated to their respective countries.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Nana Denkyira expressed concern about the prevalence of child trafficking in the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo regions, as well as other parts of the country. To address this issue, the NGO organized a media engagement event in Abesim near Sunyani. The event aimed to sensitize the media and gather their insights for a project titled “Combating Modern Slavery,” which is being implemented by ActionAid Ghana in the Bono Region.

The project spans three years and operates in the Tain and Jaman North districts, as well as the Jaman South Municipality of the Bono Region. It seeks to identify, prevent, and strengthen policies related to anti-slavery measures, child trafficking, labor exploitation, and other related issues.

Nana Denkyira highlighted the unfortunate reality that slavery still exists in some parts of the country, taking on modern forms, particularly in communities involved in cocoa and cashew cultivation. He called for collective and decisive efforts to combat this growing trend of modern slavery.

The regional programs manager expressed his appreciation for the media’s crucial role in the project’s implementation and urged them to continue advocating against these unacceptable practices. He emphasized that innocent children who are lured or trafficked for labor often suffer severe human rights abuses, underscoring the urgency to curb such practices in the country.

Nana Denkyira acknowledged the significant role of the media and hoped they would continue their advocacy efforts, contributing to the successful completion of the project by December 2023.

Having devoted 32 years to the Church of Pentecost (CoP), Apostle Emmanuel Gyesi-Addo, the former International Missions Director and Area Head of the Haatso Area, has officially retired from active ministry.

A retirement service was organized in honor of Apostle Gyesi-Addo and his wife, Elizabeth, at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Atomic, commemorating their exceptional commitment to their vocation.

The event was attended by CoP leadership, including Chairman Apostle Eric Nyamekye, who presided over the service, and former Chairman Apostle Prof. Kwadwo Nimfour Opoku Onyinah. Ministers from around the world, both retired and active, were also present, along with the family of the retired minister.

During the sermon titled “A mission-accomplished soldier deserves well done,” Apostle Vincent Anane Denteh, Director of the Men’s Ministry of CoP, highlighted the analogy between Christians’ mission and that of Jesus, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one’s mission. Apostle Gyesi-Addo was commended for his dedication, commitment, and diligence in contributing significantly to the church’s global gospel propagation efforts. His wife, Mrs. Gyesi-Addo, was also acknowledged for her support.

Apostle Prof. Opoku-Onyinah praised Apostle Gyesi-Addo’s meticulous execution of his responsibilities and described him as “slow but sure.”

Both the Haatso Area and the General Council of the church paid tribute to Apostle and Mrs. Gyesi-Addo, extending well wishes for their retirement.

Apostle Gyesi-Addo’s journey began in April 1991 when he accepted the call into full-time ministry at the Church of Pentecost. He served in various capacities, including Administrative Secretary and Personal Assistant to the first International Missions Director, Apostle Prof. Opoku-Onyinah. Over the years, he held positions at different locations, contributing significantly to the church’s mission efforts both nationally and internationally. He rose to the rank of Apostle in 2007 and assumed the role of Area Head in 2021.

His international assignments took him to places like Senegal, Togo, Niger, and Switzerland, where he served as a Missionary and National Head, further extending the impact of his ministry.

In recognition of his dedication, Apostle Gyesi-Addo’s retirement service celebrated his tireless service and the lasting impact he has made within the Church of Pentecost.

The launch of a National Integrated Maritime Strategy has taken place, aimed at devising effective approaches to tackle the challenges within the maritime sector.

This strategy holds the objective of not only ensuring the safety and security of Ghana’s maritime domain on a global scale but also cultivating a robust blue economy that enhances both national revenue and the overall quality of life for the population.

President Akufo-Addo unveiled this strategy during the inauguration of the third International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference 2023, held at Burma Camp in Accra.

The comprehensive six-point strategy entails strengthening the governance structure for maritime affairs, bolstering the safety and security measures of Ghana’s maritime territory, fostering the growth of a thriving blue economy, safeguarding the marine and coastal environment, promoting capacity-building, research, awareness, and knowledge exchange in the maritime domain, and establishing dynamic and diverse regional as well as international collaborations.

The conference and exhibition garnered participation from global maritime industry stakeholders and Navy Chiefs from around the world. The event centered on the theme of “Consolidating the gains made in Gulf of Guinea: the role of stakeholders and technology in sustaining a safe and secure maritime domain.”

President Akufo-Addo expressed concern about entities that continue to portray a bleak image of the situation in the Gulf of Guinea, despite Ghana having not experienced any instances of piracy at sea since 2022. He highlighted that these entities base their erroneous reports on minor unverified theft incidents near anchorages, which don’t align with the definition of piracy according to international maritime law.

President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of technology in curbing maritime crimes, such as illegal fishing, piracy, human trafficking, and smuggling.

He urged law enforcement agencies to employ advanced technology to disrupt the connections between these crimes. He underscored that technology had become an essential tool to sustain and secure the maritime domain, necessitating innovative approaches to counter the sophisticated methods employed by criminals.

Furthermore, the President noted the significance of the ocean’s economic potential, particularly in developing countries. He urged nations to explore innovative solutions to tap into the estimated $24 trillion ocean wealth and alleviate socio-economic and environmental vulnerabilities.

He praised the exhibition and conference as pivotal platforms for maritime stakeholders, especially naval chiefs, to strategize effectively for leveraging the blue economy and fostering sustainable economic development using appropriate technologies.

President Akufo-Addo highlighted the pivotal role of the Gulf of Guinea, which serves as a crucial route for exports and imports, contributing significantly to the region’s economy.

Additionally, he underscored the strategic importance of underwater internet communication fiber cables in the sea, urging stakeholders to innovate to fortify the gains made in creating an advantageous business environment.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu, highlighted the expected outcomes of the conference, centered on devising a regional and international framework to combat piracy and other transnational maritime crimes.

He expressed hope that industry players would propose feasible and affordable solutions for regional adoption.

A police officer in Tamale is in custody on suspicion of stealing three motorbikes that were confiscated during an incident where enraged youths attacked the court premises.

Following the disturbance, the court granted bail to the individuals who had been detained in connection with the attack. Concurrently, the police instructed the owners of the seized motorbikes to present their bike documents.

One of the motorbike owners visited the police station to reclaim their vehicle but discovered it missing. Fortunately, the owner had equipped the bike with a tracking device.

Utilizing the tracker, the owner was able to trace the whereabouts of the missing motorbike, which led to the discovery of the vehicle inside the room of the implicated police officer.

Upon being alerted, the police initiated an investigation and located the stolen motorbike in the officer’s room, alongside two others. The police officer has subsequently been arrested and is being held in custody pending further inquiry.

The incident unfolded when a group of enraged youth forcefully entered the court premises, resorting to stone-throwing, causing damage to property, and inflicting injuries upon a police officer.

The agitated youth were protesting against an alleged drug dealer who they believed was receiving protection from the police.

In summary, a police officer in Tamale has been detained for allegedly stealing three motorbikes confiscated after a court attack by angered youths.

The officer’s arrest occurred after one of the motorbike owners traced their stolen vehicle using a tracking device, which ultimately led to the discovery of the stolen bikes in the officer’s room.

This incident unfolded amid a protest by irate youth who accused the police of shielding an alleged drug dealer.

The National Council of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially announced that only individuals who are part of the National Executive Council will have the privilege to cast their votes during the run-off scheduled for September 2.

This run-off will determine the outcome between Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh, the two contenders within the party. The decision was made following a meeting of the National Council on August 30.

The situation arose due to a tie in the August 26 polls where both candidates secured 9 votes each, leading to a need for a run-off. Initially, there was deliberation on whether the 961 members of the super delegates should be involved in the run-off.

However, this matter has now been resolved by the National Council.

Although there were hopes that one of the candidates would withdraw their candidacy in favor of the other, this scenario did not materialize.

Consequently, the National Council convened on Wednesday and determined that while a run-off would indeed take place on September 2, not all 961 delegates would participate in the voting process.

During the super delegates conference, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia secured a substantial victory with 629 votes, accounting for 68.15% of the total vote.

Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong secured the second position with 132 votes, equivalent to 14.30%, while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen came in third with 95 votes, representing 10.29%.

In the upcoming run-off scheduled for September 2, the fate of the two presidential candidates, Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh, who both garnered nine (9) votes in the initial NPP presidential race on August 26, will be decided.

The Chair of the Disciplinary Committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwasi Amoako-Attah, has remarked that the recently concluded super delegates conference was largely peaceful despite a few reported incidents.

He stated that the event held on Saturday, August 26, was approximately 99 percent peaceful, with only a small number of infractions observed.

Amoako-Attah mentioned that while there were some reported violations, the General Secretary of the party has officially brought these to the attention of the Disciplinary Committee. He noted that the committee is yet to conduct its own investigations and make decisions regarding the reported incidents.

Speaking about the overall tone of the conference, the Atiwa West Lawmaker emphasized that even though a couple of issues arose, these should not overshadow the fact that the event was predominantly peaceful. He acknowledged that while everyone hoped for a 100 percent peaceful situation, recording one or two infractions shouldn’t lead to despair.

The report also recapped an incident involving Alan Kyerematen, who came in third during the conference. Following an attack on one of his agents, Kyerematen issued a stern warning to stakeholders, expressing his unwillingness to tolerate any further attacks on his supporters in the future.

Kyerematen’s agent, Ali Zakaria, sustained an eye injury and was promptly taken to the Baptist Medical Center (BMC) for immediate treatment.

The incident was downplayed by the party’s regional branch as exaggerated. Kyerematen condemned the attack in the North East Region as an act of “total indiscipline.”

During a visit to his agent at Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Kyerematen highlighted that the attack at the Nalerigu Senior High School had tarnished the NPP’s image. He stated that the recent events contradicted the party’s core values and expressed his concern over the lack of discipline.

Kyerematen firmly asserted that he would not tolerate such behavior in the future, expressing disbelief that the party couldn’t maintain a peaceful and organized selection process for a leader.

He also revealed his disturbance over the incident, emphasizing that the party should not downplay what had occurred.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a warning to farmers residing along the White Volta river due to the presence of dangerous reptiles that are also grappling with the challenges posed by the floods triggered by the release of water from the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso.

As of Wednesday, August 30, NADMO provided further caution, highlighting that the water level of the White Volta river at Pwalugu in the Upper East Region has risen due to the reopening of the Dam’s valves by Burkinabe authorities on Tuesday.

“We urge farmers/people along the White Volta river to avoid the flood waters,” NADMO stated in its update to residents.

“The river has overflown its banks and some farms along the river are flooded.”

NADMO’s advisory to residents stressed the importance of avoiding floodwaters, particularly for those residing or farming along the White Volta river. The river has breached its banks, resulting in the flooding of some farms situated along its course.

Additionally, NADMO pointed out that the floods are disturbing the natural habitats of reptiles, thereby increasing the risk of encounters with these creatures. The organization emphasized the potential danger of snake bites during this period, urging people to exercise caution while being near the river.

The statement also highlighted the challenges faced by reptiles as they attempt to navigate the flooded areas. With their habitats disrupted, these animals are moving to higher ground, including debris and treetops along the river.

In summary, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has alerted farmers and residents along the White Volta river about the increased risk posed by dangerous reptiles due to the flooding caused by the release of water from the Bagre Dam.

The organization has emphasized the importance of avoiding floodwaters and staying cautious due to the elevated risk of encountering these reptiles, especially snakes.

“The reptiles are also struggling for survival as they move upland, on debris and on top of trees along the river.”

The spokesperson for Alan Kyerematen, an aspiring flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Richard Nyamah, has delivered an update regarding the status of Ali Zakaria.

Ali Zakaria, who serves as Mr. Kyerematen’s polling agent, was allegedly subjected to an assault during the recently concluded super delegates conference held on Saturday, August 26th.

Nyamah revealed that Ali Zakaria had undergone a medical examination to assess the extent of damage inflicted on his eye.

According to Nyamah, the medical professionals informed them that the pupil of Ali Zakaria’s eye had shifted from its normal position due to the assault. Zakaria had sustained an injury to his eye after being struck, and he had received immediate treatment at the Baptist Medical Center (BMC).

Despite efforts to downplay the incident by the party’s regional branch, Zakaria had to be transferred to the Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital in Accra for further medical attention.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, August 29, that the diagnosis indicated significant blood accumulation in the eye, although fortunately, no veins had ruptured. He mentioned that medication had been administered with the hope that the eye would recover over time.

Alan Kyerematen, the aspirant, also voiced his concerns and condemned the attack on his polling agent during the Super Delegates’ Conference in the North East Region.

Kyerematen, who secured the third position in the election, expressed his disappointment and stated that such incidents of violence were a departure from the values of the NPP. He visited Ali Zakaria at Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital and emphasized that such behavior would not be tolerated in the future.

Kyerematen stressed the importance of conducting the party’s processes peacefully and organizedly, indicating that the recent incident had cast a negative light on the NPP’s image.

He cautioned against further such behavior and highlighted the significance of maintaining unity and discipline within the party.

In summary, Mr. Richard Nyamah provided an update on Ali Zakaria’s condition following the alleged assault during the NPP’s super delegates conference, while Alan Kyerematen condemned the attack and emphasized the need for unity and discipline within the party.

A member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communication team, Awal Mohammed, has criticized former President John Dramani Mahama for his comments regarding the episodes of violence that disrupted the party’s Super Delegates Conference.

Mr Mohammed stated that John Mahama’s acceptance and endorsement of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) propensity for violence effectively disqualifies him from critiquing the NPP.

Speaking to the media, Awal Mohammed stated that as a leader of a political party, Mahama’s acknowledgment of the NDC’s propensity for violence suggests that he should refrain from condemning the NPP’s actions.

“When you have someone who says NDC has revolutionary roots and when it comes to unleashing violence, no party can beat NDC in unleashing violence is telling us that this incident is something that he is condemning and so on.

“Someone who after mentioning this went to Akina Radio in Techiman where he is supposed to even commiserate with the people there went there and said in 2024, it will be do or die does not have the moral right to condemn what has happened,” he said.

He admitted that the violence witnessed in the NPP North East Regional incident was concerning but suggested that it shouldn’t be used as grounds for condemnation by Mahama.

“While we condemn the incident that happened in Nalerigu Senior High School, you don’t use it as a yardstick to condemn a political party that has no revolutionary roots, that is not really a violent political party. When we talk about a violent political party, you, the leader of the political party has said that the NDC is a violent political party,” Mohammed added.

During the NPP Super Delegates Conference on August 26, 2023, there were reports of violence in the North East Region, where polling agents of NPP flagbearer hopeful Alan Kyerematen were allegedly attacked. Additionally, on August 29, 2023, reports emerged of a physical altercation between the Oti Regional Minister, Joshua Makubu, and a former District Chief Executive in the region, Solomon Donkor.

In response to these incidents, the leadership of the NPP announced their intention to investigate the alleged assaults that occurred during the August 26 Super Delegates Conference in the North East Region.

A hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer position, Kennedy Agyapong, has offered an explanation for his remarks captured in a viral video during the party’s Special Delegates Conference.

Through a tweet, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Mr Agyapong, explained that his strong response was a reaction to an injustice that posed a threat to the safety of his polling station agent in the North East region.

“I reacted against injustice and that saved the life of GANIU one of my polling station agents in North East. #ShowDown,” he added.

Agyapong’s clarification emerged after a prolonged discussion with the NPP’s elections committee, where he raised various concerns pertaining to the special delegates conference.

Alhassan Abdul Ganiyu, who served as Kennedy Agyapong’s agent, spoke to the press and conveyed that Agyapong’s strong reaction during the conference protected him and two other agents. Ganiyu explained that Agyapong’s intervention prevented potential harm.

He recounted, “The regional chairman said they will give us some amount of money, GH¢2000 and we said no we are not there for money. He insisted that he would increase the money by GH¢1000 and we said no, we are not going to go by any amount.”

Ganiyu continued, “Whatever amount you are going to give to us, we are not ready for it. Then after we told him we were leaving, myself, Alan’s agent and Kwadwo Poku’s agent, we said we were leaving, he ran and locked the door…telling us to better go and sign.”

Ganiyu revealed that threats were made against them, with the implication that they would be attacked if they left. Kennedy Agyapong’s swift response to the situation helped ease the pressure they were under.

It’s worth noting that the explanation provided by Ganiyu contradicts the interpretation offered by Agyapong’s campaign team.

The team had stated that Agyapong’s “showdown” comment should be understood as a declaration of his intention to win the November 4 polls, not as a threat to the president and vice president.

In the meantime, the Spokesperson of the NPP’s Elections Committee, Alexander Afenyo Markin, disclosed that they had engaged in positive discussions with Kennedy Agyapong regarding the viral showdown comment.

Markin indicated that further discussions were planned, with a conclusion to be shared with the public afterward. He expressed appreciation for the cooperation shown by Agyapong thus far.

A 30-year-old herdsman, Amadu Osman, has been awarded a 10-year prison sentence with hard labour by a Circuit Court in Yendi, Northern Region.

The verdict was delivered after the suspect pleaded guilty to charges of kidnapping and conspiracy to kidnap.

Both the perpetrator and victim, residents of the Nanumba South District, were involved in the incident.

On August 10, 2023, the suspect requested assistance from Mohammed Umaru, a fellow herdsman, to cross the Oti River due to the unavailability of canoe operators.

The suspect urged Umaru to contact Bombo Nigmando, a canoe operator, for help.

Upon reaching the other side of the river with the canoe operator, the suspect, along with four armed accomplices, apprehended Umaru.

The assailants shot at Nigmando, prompting him to escape by swimming across the river and fleeing to safety.

Blindfolding the victim, the kidnappers took him to an undisclosed location and demanded a ransom from his relatives using his phone.

After the ransom was paid, the victim was released.

The incident was reported to the police, leading to the arrest of the suspect.

Presiding judge His Honour Anthony Aduku-Aidoo issued the 10-year prison sentence with hard labour on Wednesday, August 30, 2023.

In Abrokofe, a community situated in the Juaboso District of the Western North Region, security personnel employed by certain Chinese illegal miners opened fire, resulting in the death of an 18-year-old young man and the injury of two others.

The victims, all members of the community, had ventured to the mining site on that day to engage in their work. Regrettably, Kofi King Arthur, one of the workers, was fatally shot in the chest and lost his life immediately.

The two survivors, Joseph Tawiah and Albert Oppong, were wounded – Joseph in the thigh and Albert in the lower back.

The injured individuals are presently receiving medical attention at St John of God Hospital in Sefwi Asafo.

According to the community residents, access to the mining site is typically restricted, except on designated “Breaking Days” when the Chinese miners are not active. On these occasions, locals are allowed to enter the mine to search for gold.

Tragically, on that fateful Wednesday, the security personnel at the site unexpectedly opened fire on the community members, leading to the fatality and injuries.

Per reports aside from the Aowin Municipality and the Suaman District – both recognized as hubs for illegal mining – the Juaboso District in the Western North Region also experiences a significant presence of illegal mining activities, known as “Galamsey.”

Numerous areas such as Bonsu Nkwanta, Mintakrom, Yawgyem, Sefwi Juaboso, Boinzan, Abrokofe, Agyemangdiem, Mafia, and Sefwi Elluibo have seen illegal mining encroach even into people’s living spaces, causing widespread destruction to valuable cocoa farms and fertile lands within the Juaboso District.

In an interview with the media, the father of one of the victims and the unit committee chairman of Abrokofe, Mr. Barnabas Nketiah, shared that the injured victims were initially taken to Kofikrom-Proso Clinic before being transferred to Asafo for necessary medical treatment.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has stated that the Upper East Region holds the highest count of elephantiasis (lymphatic filariasis) cases in Ghana.

Around 2,373 confirmed elephantiasis cases, constituting roughly a third of the country’s total instances, have been identified in the region.

Speaking to the media, the Desk Officer for GHS’s Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) program, Bright Alomatu, stated that despite the endemic nature of elephantiasis across all 15 municipalities and districts in the Upper East Region, efforts are underway to curb its progression.

He linked the region’s widespread elephantiasis to the influence of dams and irrigation projects.

“In all, we have registered close to 6,000 cases across the whole country, the Upper East Region has 2,373, those are those we found. There could even be more out there. Again, it’s not only the Upper East Region that has the condition. Maybe the high numbers may be due to the pressures of many dams, and irrigation projects because the disease is spread by the very anopheles mosquito that transmits malaria.”

“We have done more work in the Upper East Region than all the regions. It’s also possible that if we do a thorough search in other regions, their number could increase,” the Desk Officer for the Ghana Health Service’s NTDs programme said.

The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has announced its intention to formally request the Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, to enhance security measures at various court premises.

JUSAG has expressed strong disapproval of recent assaults on judicial staff.

In response to the attack on the Tamale Circuit Court by angered residents, JUSAG President Samuel Afotey Otu stated that the police must safeguard court facilities.

“In situations like these, we have established legal procedures to address them. Therefore, we urge the police to address the issue. We also call for increased assistance from both the government and the police service, under the leadership of the IGP, to ensure the provision of security and additional security personnel during such court proceedings. We ask them to heighten security measures,” appealed the President of the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana.

Background

The Tamale District Court was subjected to an attack on August 28, 2023, as a group of residents stormed the court premises, hurling stones and causing damage to the property. A police officer was injured during the incident, leading to an exchange of gunfire between the police and the agitated youth.

The group claimed they were acting to ensure the proper prosecution of a drug dealer whom they believed was causing harm to the youth through his activities.

JUSAG condemned the unauthorized intrusion onto the Tamale District Court premises, asserting that the act was unlawful.

Nevertheless, Gulkpegu Naa, the chief of Tamale, has called for the immediate and unconditional release of suspects detained in connection with the attack. These individuals were apprehended after the youth mob disrupted the court proceedings, damaging property and injuring a police officer.

The youth’s actions were motivated by their frustration with the release of a drug dealer whom they accused the police of shielding.

Following the attack, 13 suspects were apprehended. Speaking on behalf of the chief, Saha Naa Abdul Latif appealed for the release of the suspects and the return of their confiscated motorbikes.

He further alleged that the police entered the Gukpe Naa’s Palace and fired shots, resulting in injuries to five individuals.

A prominent contender in the NPP flagbearer race, Francis Addai-Nimoh, has firmly stated that he will not withdraw from the scheduled run-off on Saturday, September 2, 2023.

He clarified that the New Patriotic Party’s regulations dictate a run-off in the event of a tie during the August 26 Super Delegates Conference.

Addai-Nimoh emphasized the importance of adhering to these rules and stated his determination to remain in the race.

“Absolutely not. The rules are clear. We are abiding by the rules, alright? We’ve adopted the guidelines endorsed by the party’s national council. According to these guidelines, if there’s a tie for the fifth position, a run-off will be conducted to determine the occupant of that spot,” he affirmed.

Francis Addai-Nimoh conveyed this stance during an interview with the media.

To qualify for the NPP congress and compete for the main flagbearer position on November 4, 2023, a minimum of five candidates is required.

However, following the conclusion of the super delegates conference on August 26, 2023, Francis Addai-Nimoh secured nine votes, accounting for 1.03% of the vote share.

Similarly, Boakye Agyarko also received nine votes, representing 1.03%, resulting in a tie for the fifth position.

The First Lady, Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has unveiled Ghana’s version of the “Unifying Campaign,” aimed at bridging the gender gap in Africa.

The initiative strives for gender equality, empowering women and girls to contribute to Africa’s, especially Ghana’s, progress.

Under the banner of “We Are Equal (#WeAreEqual),” the campaign brings together African first ladies, partners, and allies to advance gender equity and diminish gender disparities continent-wide.

The Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) spearheads this year-long effort, uniting first ladies to dismantle barriers obstructing women and girls in health, education, women’s economic empowerment, and gender-based violence.

The campaign emphasizes the notion that “We are equal – and always have been. Our access to healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and freedom from violence should be equal too.”

In June, during its 20th Anniversary, OAFLAD initiated a one-year campaign with the theme “We are Equal. Working Together, Our Society Can Be Too,” aimed at hastening gender parity in Africa through member state advocacy, as stated by Mrs. Akufo-Addo.

She urged action to grant women and girls equal access to health, education, skills, and protection from gender-based violence. She hoped that by dismantling the barriers that hinder women’s progress, “we can forge a future where all Africans can thrive.”

Mrs. Akufo-Addo encouraged policymakers to expedite the execution of existing policies, making gender a pervasive theme throughout strategies and programs.

“The battle for gender equality is a long-standing one. Unfortunately, it remains unfulfilled. While the global gender gap has been narrowing, we require more urgency and action for significant impact.”

The First Lady implored all stakeholders, particularly social media influencers, to use their platforms to advance gender equality in health, economic empowerment, education, decision-making, and overall development.

“To all influencers, your voices resonate far. Employ your platforms to promote gender equality… We anticipate that this campaign will elevate awareness, stimulate stakeholder involvement, reinforce policy commitments, and amplify media focus on closing the gender gap.”

Madam Lariba Zuweira Abudu, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, applauded the First Lady’s substantial efforts in empowering women and children.

She revealed that her ministry had leveraged the Free Education Policy to address concerns raised by the Unifying Campaign, given that many girls could now access education through this program.

The Deputy Minister of Health, Ms. Tina Gifty Mensah, pledged the Ministry’s full support for the campaign’s success. She asserted that strong advocacy was required to enforce gender equity by involving more women in decision-making and championing the advancement of capable women to leadership roles.

Mr. Yaw Adutwum, the Minister of Education, extended gratitude to the First Lady for her contributions and promised the Ministry’s support to drive the campaign.

He highlighted how the successes achieved with the Free SHS program and the promotion of STEM education had enabled many girls to pursue these courses, aligning with the President’s commitment to affording women and girls equal opportunities.

Dr. Emmily Naphambo, Deputy Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), acknowledged Ghana’s role in ensuring gender equality and women’s well-being.

However, she emphasized the need for more action in areas like maternal mortality, unmet family planning needs, and female genital mutilation. UNFPA pledged continuous support to meet the country’s socio-economic requirements.

Dignitaries in attendance included Professor Amin Alhassan, Director General of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation; Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, Director General of the Ghana Aids Commission; and Dr. Beatrice Addai Wiafe, CEO of Peace and Love Hospitals.

A member of the communication team for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Alhaji Naziru Mohammed, has accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of posing a threat to Ghana’s democracy.

He expressed concerns about recent actions taken by certain individuals within the NPP that he believes are endangering the democratic fabric of the country.

This statement comes in response to the confirmation given by Bugri Naabu, the former Northern Regional Chairman of the NPP, during his appearance before a 7-member committee.

Bugri Naabu, the first witness in the case involving an alleged audio recording aimed at removing the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, admitted to recording the audio himself and presenting it to the president.

Alhaji Naziru Mohammed expressed apprehension about the president’s willingness to engage in listening to such recordings, characterizing it as engaging in gossip.

“NPP continuously is a threat to our democracy. I say so without any reservations because if you have a political party where the president gets time to listen to gossip tapes such as these then you can know where we are heading.

“The president has time among all the things he has to do, to listen to these things. If that was not the case, Burgri Naabu will come and tell us that he recorded such things to go and give them to the president,” he said.

Alhaji Naziru Mohammed went on to suggest that even President Nana Akufo-Addo was not immune to allegations of corruption. He referred to the contents of the tape where Bugri Naabu mentioned President Akufo-Addo in connection with financial matters.

“We must not forget that even in this tape, President Nana Akufo-Addo didn’t escape the issues of corruption. In the tape, Bugri Naabu said COP needs to bring something because they can’t just go and see the president without giving him anything.

“On top of that, Bugri Naabu confirmed to us that the tape was real. He even confirmed that he has taken everything to the president already and, he also must give Bugri Naabu something as he cannot also go empty-handed to the president,” he noted.

Also, the NDC communication team member touched on the recurring theme of financial transactions associated with the president.

“Every time something about Nana Addo comes up in a tape, you will hear them say, they will have to send money to the president before meeting him.

Additionally, Alhaji Naziru Mohammed touched on a recurring theme regarding financial transactions associated with the president. He claimed that the confirmation provided by Bugri Naabu’s tape supported allegations that the NDC had previously made about the president’s involvement in financial dealings.

“At least the confirmation tape by Bugri Naabu tells us that all the allegations we’ve heard about the president that they keep denying, it is true,” he added.

“In every tape where something about Nana Addo comes up, you will hear them say they have to send money to the president before meeting him. At least the confirmation tape by Bugri Naabu tells us that all the allegations we’ve heard about the president that they keep denying, it is true,” he concluded.

A delegation comprising four members from the University of Ghana (UG) and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Schools of Veterinary Medicine have visited the UK’s National Bee Unit.

The purpose of the visit is to establish robust partnerships aimed at enhancing bee health education within veterinary undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Ghana.

This two-week trip, taking place from August 18th to August 31st, 2023, is sponsored by the Animal Health System Strengthening Project (AHSS), a UK overseas development assistance initiative managed by the UK’s Department for Food and Rural Affairs.

The delegation includes Professor Benjamin Obukowho Emikpe, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine at KNUST; Dr. Richard Hope Otsyina, Acting Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine at UG; Dr. Ayodeji Ayotunde Oni, a senior lecturer at the School of Veterinary Medicine at UG; and Dr. Emmanuel Dongbataazie Piiru of the School of Veterinary Medicine at KNUST.

Bees play a vital role in maintaining a healthy environment, contributing to biodiversity and acting as essential pollinators for various crops. Bee populations worldwide have been dwindling due to factors such as habitat loss, climate changes, diseases, and the excessive use of pesticides that harm their health.

The UK’s National Bee Unit (NBU) is renowned for its expertise in bee health advice and research.

It has been actively involved in bee pest and disease management, along with beekeeper training and information dissemination for over six decades.

The unit comprises around 80 professionals, including laboratory diagnosticians, researchers, and bee inspectors.

During their visit, the delegation is undergoing both theoretical and practical training on beekeeping techniques, as well as bee pests and diseases. They will also interact with scientists at Fera Science Ltd, responsible for testing bees and honey in laboratories.

The delegation will shadow bee health inspectors and apply the knowledge gained to develop a bee health teaching module for both veterinary schools in Ghana.

The collaboration’s second phase will involve British bee experts and Ghanaian partners visiting beekeeping communities in Ghana to assess prevalent diseases and pests.

They will adapt recommended disease control practices to suit the local context, benefiting Ghana’s honey producers and processors.