Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has stated that Ghanaians should thank God for exposing the former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, as it has shed light on corrupt activities within the government.
He expressed excitement over the case, considering the significant amount of money involved and the lack of plausible explanations so far.
“In actual fact, the first thing we should be celebrating is the fact that God gave us such a case. You see how President Akufo-Addo has been denying that there is no corruption and God has handed us this case, we should be celebrating.”
“…I am excited because we have had a case where we have seen big money that so far is looking like there can’t be any plausible explanation. So, it brings excitement until she can displace the excitement…So let’s start celebrating,” he stated.
However, Prof Ransford Gyampo, a senior lecturer and political scientist at the University of Ghana, criticized President Akufo-Addo for making comments that could potentially interfere with the ongoing investigation into the scandal.
The President’s expression of hope for Madam Dapaah’s exoneration was seen as undermining the independence of the security agencies handling the investigation.
Former Gender Minister, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, also criticized President Akufo-Addo for the content of the letter accepting Ms. Dapaah’s resignation.
She demanded that the President disclose the source of the former Sanitation Minister’s wealth.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Kwaku Agyemang-Manu, has announced that the Cabinet has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the conversion of the Bono Regional Hospital into a teaching hospital.
He shared this development during a stakeholder’s meeting held in Sunyani, attended by various regional officials, academia, health professionals, and traditional leaders.
Dr. Agyemang-Manu, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Dormaa Central Constituency, disclosed that the approval at the 45th Cabinet meeting held in February had paved the way for the establishment of a medical school at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR).
“It is evident that the conversion to a teaching Hospital status will strengthen the Bono Regional Hospital’s position as a Centre of Excellence and attract top-tier medical professionals to the region,” he stated.
This transformation holds significant potential to revolutionize healthcare and medical education not only in the region but also beyond its borders.
The Minister emphasized that becoming a teaching hospital would position the Bono Regional Hospital as a Center of Excellence, attracting top-tier medical professionals to the region.
“We envision a future where the region becomes a hub of medical excellence, where talented minds from all walks of life come together to learn, innovate and transform the landscape of healthcare.
” These initiatives, Dr Agyemang-Manu believed these initiatives would strongly align with the nation’s quest for the attainment of United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 3.8) which seeks to achieve Universal Health Coverage.
“To attain UHC, we need to improve our health service coverage and health outcomes.
The influx of specialists and healthcare experts would not only benefit patients but also contribute to the region’s economic growth, turning it into a powerful hub for healthcare, innovation, and research.
Moreover, the decision to establish a medical school stemmed from the understanding of the importance of investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals. Dr. Agyemang-Manu envisioned a future where the region would become a hub of medical excellence, attracting talented minds from diverse backgrounds to learn, innovate, and transform the healthcare landscape.
These initiatives align with the nation’s pursuit of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 3.8). The Government is committed to ensuring that the health workforce receives adequate professional training in various specialties, which led to the establishment of the postgraduate college.
Dr. Agyemang-Manu urged the Ministry of Education, through UENR, to expedite the processes for the medical school’s establishment. He called upon all relevant stakeholders to collaborate and support the realization of the teaching hospital.
Madam Justina Owusu-Banahene, the Bono Regional Minister, expressed her belief that the establishment of a teaching hospital would elevate the standard of healthcare services in the region significantly.
By providing medical students with hands-on, real-life experiences, they can be equipped with the practical skills and knowledge needed to become exemplary healthcare professionals.
She hoped that offering a medical school and teaching hospital within the region would encourage medical graduates to stay and serve in the area, addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals and improving healthcare accessibility for citizens.
“As they forge strong bonds with our communities during their training, we can expect a greater likelihood of them staying and serving in our region, addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals and positively impacting healthcare accessibility for our citizens,” Madam Owusu-Banahene stated.
A well-known media personality, Andy Dosty, has shared a haunting incident from his high school days on his Daybreak Hitz show.
He described it as his “worst nightmare,” involving an unprovoked and violent act towards a fellow student named Obeng Asare, which caused severe injuries.
Andy Dosty admitted that he had hit Obeng Asare’s forehead with a machete during a situation where they were asked to weed. In a moment of foolishness, Andy attempted to hit the pail off Obeng Asare’s head, but it ended up striking his forehead.
Regretful of his actions, Andy Dosty was terrified when he saw the victim bleeding profusely. The incident resulted in severe punishment for Andy, and the victim had to undergo surgery due to the severity of the injuries. Fortunately, the surgery helped hide the mark left by the incident.
Andy Dosty’s story comes in the wake of another violent incident at Adisadel College, where a student was caught on video assaulting a junior in a dormitory. Reflecting on his past mistakes, Andy expressed concern about the wrongs and mistakes students can make in school.
As a consequence of the recent violent incident, the responsible student was dismissed from the school. The student who recorded the incident and other witnesses who failed to report it will also face sanctions.
Additionally, the house master and his deputy will be held accountable. The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a statement demanding the student’s suspension and involving the police due to the nature of the assault.
The Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. John Kumah, has debunked speculations about the government’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy burdening public purse.
He clarified that the expenditure on Free SHS is not a significant factor compared to the country’s overall budget and highlighted that the real concern is the nation’s debt.
In a recent interview before the 2023 mid-year budget review, Dr. Kumah emphasized that the allocation for Free SHS in the 2023 budget was GH¢2.9 billion, while the entire appropriation for the year amounted to GH¢228 billion.
“It’s not true that Free SHS is a huge elephant in the room. The allocation for Free SHS in the 2023 budget was GH¢2.9 billion, and the entire appropriation for the year was GH¢228 billion. You cannot tell me that if you are spending GH¢2.9 billion out of GH¢228 billion, that is the elephant in the room. And this is covering over 1.3 million Ghanaian children. The elephant in the room is our debt, the interest payments we made.
“The impact and benefits of Free SHS go to the core of the vulnerable and, of course, the future of the human resource of our country. And for me, that is non-negotiable,” he stated.
He argued that spending GH¢2.9 billion out of GH¢228 billion could not be considered the “elephant in the room.” Moreover, he stressed that the Free SHS program was instrumental in benefiting over 1.3 million Ghanaian children and was crucial for the vulnerable sections of society.
Addressing the importance of Free SHS, Dr. Kumah underlined its significance for the future human resource of the country and asserted that it was a non-negotiable priority. He also reassured the public of the government’s dedication to achieving growth despite fiscal constraints, with the aim of easing the burden on ordinary citizens.
The Finance Minister also defended the Free SHS initiative, emphasizing the moral obligation to provide access to education for every Ghanaian child.
However, one of the key challenges faced by some schools is related to feeding, with limited funding and supply constraints affecting their ability to provide adequate meals for students. This has raised concerns that certain schools might have to consider shutting down if these issues persist.
The District Mental Health Coordinator, Mr. Stephen Awiti, has expressed concern over the worsening mental health conditions of patients in the Nkoranza North District, Bono East Region, due to intermittent drug shortages.
He appealed to the government to ensure a constant drug supply to aid in the healing process of those with mental health illnesses in the area.
In an interview with the media in Busunya, the District capital, Mr. Awiti attributed the increasing cases of mental health illness to factors such as alcoholism, substance abuse, and marital problems.
He mentioned that currently, only about 600 out of the more than 2,000 individuals with mental health conditions in the district receive medication due to the drug scarcity, and even their conditions are deteriorating.
The most common mental disorders in the district, affecting people between 16 and 65 years old, include epilepsy, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, with epilepsy being particularly prevalent among individuals aged 15 to 40 years.
In another initiative, the MIHOSO International Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on human rights and health, has provided employable skill training to 150 individuals with mental disorders in four districts and municipalities in the region.
The beneficiaries, with 40 percent of them being women, were selected from communities in Nkoranza South and Kintampo North Municipalities, as well as Nkoranza North and Kintampo South Districts.
The organization equipped the beneficiaries with seed capital, enabling them to engage in soap making, livestock production, farming, and petty trading to improve their livelihoods. Additionally, they received leadership training skills and financial and business management guidance.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MIHOSO in charge of Operations, Mr. Thomas Benarkuu, praised the progress of the beneficiaries in their businesses and urged the District/Municipal Assemblies to provide support and decent job opportunities to patients who have become dependent on their parents and relatives.
He suggested that people with mental disorders should also benefit from the Disability Fund of the Assemblies to enhance their lives.
The organization expressed gratitude to the four Assemblies for their support in accessing drugs and appealed for continued assistance and extension of such aid to other individuals in need.
The Ghana Education Service (GES), has condemned a viral video where a student of Adisadel College is seen assaulting another, causing bleeding below the victim’s right eye after hitting his face against a metal bed.
Through its PR head, Cassandra Twum Ampofo, the GES has labeled the incident a “barbaric act of violence” and emphasized its commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment for all students in Ghana.
PRESS RELEASE
VIRAL VIDEO OF VIOLENCE INVOLVING STUDENTS OF ADISADEL COLLEGE
The attention of the Management of Ghana Education Service has been drawn to a disturbing video of assault involving two students of Adisadel College being circulated on social media.
Management is deeply concerned and condemns this barbaric act of violence in our schools. We applaud the school authorities for taking swift action to suspend the culprit pending further investigation.
Management has directed the Regional Director of Education to liaise with the school authorities and the relevant law enforcement agency to investigate for appropriate action.
Ghana Education Service assures the general public that we are taking this matter very seriously and are committed to ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for all students across the country.
Former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, who was detained by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), has been granted bail with surety.
Her arrest came after the OSP conducted searches at both her official residence in Cantonments and her private residence in Abelemekpe.
These searches were in connection to an alleged million-dollar cash theft by housekeepers, which ultimately led to her resignation on the previous Saturday.
On Monday, July 24, 2023, Mrs. Dapaah was taken to her official residence in Cantonments for a thorough search by OSP officials. Subsequently, her residence in Abelemekpe was also searched by agents of the Special Prosecutor.
The specific details of the arrest and the search operations have not been disclosed yet. However, there are indications that the OSP might share updates with the public about the arrest and the outcome of the searches on Tuesday.
Although the exact findings from the searches have not been fully revealed, credible sources suggest that the OSP may have come across “something significant.”
As part of the ongoing investigation, Mrs. Dapaah’s relatives are expected to be questioned.
Moreover, she has been served with the declaration of income and property forms, indicating the seriousness of the allegations against her.
Given Mrs. Dapaah’s previous role as Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, her arrest and the subsequent searches have garnered significant attention from the nation, prompting questions and concerns among Ghanaians.
They eagerly await the OSP’s official statement regarding the developments.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor, established to combat corruption and related offenses, maintains its commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability.
In the face of rising criticism and calls to rescind the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta has moved forth to defend the program, emphasizing the moral responsibility to ensuring every Ghanaian child has access to education.
The idea has come under fire as a result of concerns with school nutrition and infrastructure.
During a discussion with the business community before of the 2023 Mid-year Budget Review, the Finance Minister acknowledged concerns over the Free SHS policy and agreed that means testing could be a feasible solution.
However, he highlighted that being a Ghanaian citizen rights all children to the fundamental human right of education.
He contended that, while some parents may be unable or unwilling to finance their children’s education, it is the nation’s collective responsibility to find a means for those children to acquire an education.
“There is the issue of Free Senior High School, people talk about us doing the means testing, which I agree, but we should also consider that that child is Ghanaian so the fact that the parent may not want to do it does not mean that as a Ghanaian citizen, I should not find a way for that child to go through Senior high.”
”In terms of the genuineness in placing this country where it should be, I can assure you that President Akufo-Addo and what he thinks about is the strength of the human capital at whatever cost. Get people educated, and it’s limitless what they can do,” the Finance Minister stated.
The Free SHS program, which was implemented to give free secondary education to all Ghanaian students, has recently met obstacles.
One of the significant concerns is that some schools are unable to offer adequate meals for their children owing to financing and supply constraints.
As a result, there have been concerns that some schools may be forced to close if these issues persist.
The situation has aroused controversy among individuals and legislators alike, with some believing that the policy should be reevaluated and possibly repealed in order to effectively address the rising challenges.
Despite these calls for reform, President Akufo-Addo has stated unequivocally that the Free Secondary Education Policy will be maintained.
It was highlighted that, even in the context of seeking IMF assistance, the government is determined to maintaining the policy and its essential purpose of delivering accessible education for all Ghanaian pupils.
The owner of Engineers and Planners, Ibrahim Mahama, has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Daavi Joyce Tamakloe, by naming a remarkable $6 million large excavator after her.
The impressive excavator, known as the Liebherr 9400, bears the distinctive number EX 072 and is specifically designed for heavy-duty mining operations.
The Personal Assistant to Ibrahim Mahama, Rafik Mahama, took to Facebook to share the news of this touching gesture.
He conveyed that the newly acquired machine holds a special place in Ibrahim’s heart as it serves as a dedication to the cherished memory of his beloved mother.
In a video lasting about 1 minute and 30 seconds, the immense capabilities of this massive excavator are showcased in all their glory, reflecting the profound respect and honor accorded to the late Daavi Joyce Tamakloe through this gesture.
Mr. Ibrahim Mahama of Engineers and Planners dedicated his New $6Million Liebherr 9400 excavator numbered EX 072 to his late mother Daaavi Joyce Tamakloe. #EngineersAndPlannerspic.twitter.com/E9NQwUtXpm
A lecturer from Luton University’s Department of African Studies has proposed that Ghana’s ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) consider selecting a prominent figure like Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, as their running mate for the upcoming elections.
Dr. Effah Eghan believes that Wontumi’s popularity extends beyond regional or ethnic boundaries, making him a potential catalyst for the NPP’s victory.
Dr. Eghan emphasized that Ghana‘s political landscape has evolved significantly, with popularity and national acceptance playing a crucial role in determining political success. While acknowledging that his suggestion might be controversial to some, he urged people to objectively reflect on the idea.
“Chairman Wontumi and figures like him are now leading the political pack, wielding influence that can sway votes in favor of their parties,” Dr. Effah argued.
Drawing on his expertise in African political dynamics and election studies, Dr. Effah highlighted Chairman Wontumi’s significant impact across the country’s social fabric since entering politics. He asserted that Wontumi’s widespread popularity in both the northern and southern regions, along with his ability to connect with grassroots communities, make him an ideal candidate for the crucial role of NPP’s running mate.
In a recent statement, the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has declared its unwavering determination to shut down its plants in regions affected by illegal mining activities (galamsey), particularly when the turbidity levels of raw water exceed critical thresholds.The
Managing Director of GWCL, Clifford Braimah, raised serious concerns about the significant adverse effects of illegal mining on the company’s operations. During a Public Accounts Committee hearing, he appealed for united efforts to combat this pressing issue.
The utility company defended its proposed 334% tariff increase, emphasizing that the primary goal is to encourage Ghanaians to take responsibility for deterring illegal mining within their communities.
Mr. Braimah stated, “If I had my way, Ghanaians will go and chase away all the galamsayers out of their areas because once the turbidity goes up, we shut the plant. And if you have no alternative access to water, you will take the situation seriously because we stay with the people who pollute the water. And if we [GWCL] shut down, you will not even know where to go to get the water.”
He further added, “If you pollute the water and the cost of treatment goes up, why don’t you pay for it because you are making money in one breath polluting the water?”
GWCL’s firm stance on combating illegal mining underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity for collaborative actions to protect the country’s water resources.
The Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development has directed the Institute of Local Government Studies (ILGS) to facilitate meetings with relevant stakeholders to foster consensus on the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies Chief Executives (MMDCEs).
Mr. Daniel Botwe acknowledged that the legal reforms required to enable the election of MMDCEs remained an unfinished agenda of the Government. He emphasized that the meetings with stakeholders would help gauge their perspectives on significant constitutional reforms.
During the 6th Congregation Ceremony of the ILGS in Madina, Accra, Mr. Botwe informed journalists that the outcomes of these meetings would be submitted to the President for consideration.
“We have met IDEG and CDD so, we are tasking the academic wing of the Ministry (ILGS) to start these breakfast meetings and talk to all stakeholders whether we can narrow down on where we differ and see whether there is agreement,” he said.
“The position of my Party (New Patriotic Party) is that it should be partisan, but we will still want to reach a broader consensus. If it is the case that it should be partisan then the amendments must take place,” Mr Botwe said.
The Minister elaborated on the contentious issue of whether local-level elections should be partisan. He stated that the consultations would contribute to determining the nature of necessary legal reforms. While his party, the New Patriotic Party, favors partisan elections, Mr. Botwe expressed a willingness to reach a broader consensus.
Article 55(3) of the 1992 Constitution currently prohibits the involvement of political parties in local governance. An attempted referendum in 2019 to amend this clause was halted due to the lack of agreement among key stakeholders.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo announced in 2021 the Government’s intention to revisit the referendum once consensus on the matter is reached.
The ILGS, established in 1999 under the Ministry of Local Government, is tasked with providing capacity-building programs for the Local Government sector, conducting research in local governance, and offering consultancy and advisory services.
At the recent Congregation, 111 students graduated from various postgraduate programs at the ILGS. The Director of ILGS, Professor Nicholas Awortwi, appealed to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to grant the Institute a Presidential Charter, allowing it to award its own degrees independently of its current affiliation with the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
Prof Awortwi highlighted that this autonomy would enhance the Institute’s progress without compromising its core mandate.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has held a solemn and emotional ceremony to pay their respects and honor the late President Prof John Evans Atta Mills, on the eleventh anniversary of his passing.
The wreath-laying event was conducted at Accra’s Asomdwe Park, where the remains of the late president were laid to rest.
Prominent NDC bigwigs gathered on July 24, 2023, to commemorate the legacy of Prof. Mills, who served as Ghana’s leader from 2009 until his untimely death in 2012.
Notable attendees included former President John Dramani Mahama, who succeeded Atta Mills and served as Ghana’s President from 2012 to 2017.
Also present were the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, and NDC Chairman, Johnson Aseidu Nketiah, affectionately known as ‘General Mosquito’.
Numerous other high-ranking NDC members, party executives, minority members, and senior officials participated in the event.
During the ceremony, Koku Anyidoho, a former presidential spokesperson, spoke about the circumstances surrounding Prof. Mills’ death in July 2012. The late president passed away at the 37 Military Hospital after being rushed from the Castle, the seat of the presidency at the time.
Anyidoho, who was perceived as a ‘powerful’ aide to the former president, mentioned that he had faced accusations of personally transporting the ailing president to the hospital.
The 11th wreath-laying ceremony of the late President John Evans Atta Mills currently underway at the Asomdwee Park #UTVGhanapic.twitter.com/KLwAzApve6
Communities in the North Dawhenya Electoral Area of the Greater Accra Region are currently grappling with an invasion of suspected black flies, causing distress among the residents.
According to reports, these flies have a notorious reputation for leaving blood stains at the sites of their bites on human bodies, resulting in many affected individuals scratching their skin, which leads to painful swelling.
Notably, areas like Abbeykope, Miotso, Eagle Nest Estates, and Mackweon Estates have all fallen victim to this unusual infestation.
Moses Nii-P Kutor, the Assembly member for the North Dawhenya Electoral Area, has taken swift action by alerting both the District Health Directorate and the Environmental Health Office about the situation, urgently calling for intervention.
Mr. Kutor has expressed concern that the bites of these flies are believed to be poisonous, causing victims to suffer from sores and various skin diseases.
“The stings of the flies we are told are poisonous and leave sores and other skin diseases on their victims,” he said.
This infestation is particularly affecting the residents, especially children, who are experiencing painful bites, disrupting their daily activities and even their education.
Fortunately, the District Health Directorate of the Ningo Prampram District has acknowledged the presence of these insects in the community.
They are currently collaborating with the Environmental Health Office to conduct a thorough investigation and devise effective strategies to combat the infestation.
Among the measures being considered to address the problem is fumigation in the affected communities.
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison, has raised concerns about individuals holding significant amounts of foreign currencies in their homes.
This comes after reports emerged that the former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Madam Cecilia Dapaah, allegedly kept over One million dollars in her bedroom.
Dr. Addison expressed worry over the practice during the 113th Monetary Policy Committee meeting on Monday, July 24.
In the midst of these concerns, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) confirmed the arrest of Madam Cecilia Dapaah on suspected corruption charges.
Addison said: “It is a worry to all of us but it is a matter in court so there is not much to say about it.”
The Special Prosecutor’s statement mentioned large sums of money and valuable items reportedly stolen from her residence.
Following numerous reports, the investigation was initiated, and she is currently being questioned by authorized officers of the OSP.
Madam Cecilia Dapaah resigned from her ministerial position on Saturday, July 22, 2023, after revelations that her house helps allegedly stole significant amounts of foreign and local currencies from her residence in Accra.
Two house helps, Patience Botwe and Sarah Agyei, are facing charges in connection with the audacious theft, where they are accused of stealing millions of dollars and Ghanaian cedis from her home between July and October 2022.
A major news figure in Ghana, the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah, became the subject of public interest in 2019 due to two significant aspects of her story.
It all began with an audio from the Multimedia Group, where an intern called the minister to request an interview.
In the audio, Dapaah was heard fuming, claiming disrespect for being contacted directly by an intern without proper authorization.
The public reacted strongly to the contents of the interview, leading the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources to respond.
The ministry explained that the minister was in a meeting when the call came and requested the reporter to call later.
They emphasized that the minister does not intend to intimidate or show rudeness to any media personnel, acknowledging the media’s role as a key partner in national affairs.
The intern, Rahinatu Abdul Bach, a student of the Ghana Institute of Journalism at the time, shared her perspective on the matter in an opinion titled “Sanitation Minister nearly shattered my dreams – The story of a young female journalist.” She detailed feeling demeaned during the interview with Cecilia Dapaah.
Currently, there are calls for the former minister to be investigated regarding significant sums of money allegedly stolen from her house. The matter is before an Accra Circuit Court.
The former Minister of Energy, Boakye Agyarko’s recent revelations about the incidents during the re-negotiation of the 250 Megawatts Ameri Power Plant have drawn strong reactions from the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ellembele, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah.
Buah took to Twitter to express his views, stating that Agyarko’s revelations confirm the long-held belief of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government is notoriously corrupt.
He pointed out that the claim by Agyarko that Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, acting on behalf of the government, disregarded the committee set up to negotiate the Ameri deal, reflects the immense power held by certain individuals in the government.
“This jaw-dropping revelation is a further affirmation of the long-held view of the NDC Minority in Parliament that the dubious and needless deal that was championed by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government soon after coming into office was nothing but a fraudulent scheme to shortchange the Ghanaian people.
“In the said interview, Mr. Boakye Agyarko lifted the veil over a tussle between himself and the nephew of President Akufo-Addo, Gabby Otchere Darko over who had the legitimate right and authority to champion the shady AMERI renegotiated deal that was going to witness elements in the Akufo-Addo government cream millions of dollars off the poor Ghanaian taxpayer.
“While the former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko preferred to renegotiate with METKA, Gabby Otchere who essentially was acting for and on behalf of the family and friends cabal in government, chose to negotiate with AMERI,” parts of the tweet read.
The Ellembele legislator added that the renegotiated Ameri deal has short-changed Ghana by about $1 billion, extending the contract from 5 to 10 years at a significantly higher cost to the Ghanaian taxpayer.
Background
Boakye Agyarko, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer hopeful, recounted alleged incidents during the re-negotiation of the 250 Megawatts Ameri Power Plant when he was the Minister for Energy.
According to Agyarko, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko re-negotiated the Ameri deal without the approval of the committee set up by the government for this purpose.
He further stated that when he confronted Gabby about the matter, the latter claimed President Akufo-Addo was already aware of the steps he had taken. Agyarko expressed his surprise at Gabby’s actions, considering specific instructions from the Cabinet regarding the renegotiation process.
When Agyarko discussed the issue with President Akufo-Addo, the president questioned if there was a problem with Gabby’s actions. Agyarko emphasized that the authority to renegotiate the Ameri Power Plant terms did not lie with Gabby and that the proposal from the firm he contracted violated all Cabinet instructions, extending the contract to 20 years.
Despite agreeing with Agyarko’s reasoning, President Akufo-Addo asked him to forward the deal negotiated by Gabby to the committee responsible for renegotiating the deal.
A businessman who had his multi-million dollar company demolished years ago, Raymond Archer, has offered an advice to the Board Chair of the Ghana Trade Fair Company, Daniel McKorley, popularly known as McDan.
Speaking to the media, he suggested that McDan should pray for his party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to remain in power indefinitely.
Archer’s remark came after he was asked about McDan’s comment on Ghanaian youth being lazy.
In response, Archer highlighted his concerns about the dangers that might lie ahead if the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) were to win the 2024 general elections.
The businessman accuses the NPP of targeting businesses belonging to NDC supporters when in power, leading to their collapse.
He alleged that businesses of NPP supporters, including the McDan Group, will receive preferential treatment and thrive under the party’s rule.
“Now, he has the McDan Group…a whole lagoon; natural resource was seized and given to him and all those people who lived on that lagoon and I understand about 4,000, 5,000 livelihoods have been taken and given to one man…he is building his empire whiles trampling on other people is who they are and what they have always done,” he stated.
Mr Archer mentions the demolition of his companies, Universal Labels and Packaging Co. Ltd (UNIPACK) and Colour Planet Limited, during the redevelopment project at the Trade Fair Center. He claims that the demolition took place despite a court injunction, and he acquired the property legally, rendering the actions of the authorities unjustifiable.
In particular, Archer points to the case of McDan, whose group allegedly acquired a lagoon and displaced thousands of livelihoods to build their empire, while disregarding the impact on others.
Given this backdrop, Archer advises McDan to be cautious about the potential consequences if the NDC comes to power, implying that his business success may be influenced by the ruling party in office.
Former minister of Energy, Boakye Agyarko has recounted the events that led to his removal from office in 2020.
Speaking to the media, he attributed his sacking to the re-negotiation of the 250 megawatt Ameri Power deal, which resulted in a more cost-effective agreement than the one under the previous government.
According to Agyarko, certain prominent figures in President Akufo-Addo‘s administration were displeased with the revised deal facilitated by NPP stalwart, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, without the consent of the 18-member committee, headed by lawyer Philip Addison, that was established to work on the deal.
When Agyarko discussed the matter with President Akufo-Addo, the president questioned whether there was an issue with Gabby’s actions.
The former energy minister explained that Gabby lacked the authority to renegotiate the Ameri Power Plant terms and the proposal he presented violated Cabinet instructions by extending the contract to 20 years.
President Akufo-Addo acknowledged Agyarko’s concerns and requested that he forward Gabby’s negotiated deal to the committee responsible for renegotiation.
Despite this, the former Minister for Works and Housing, Samuel Atta Akyea, threatened to mobilize Members of Parliament (MP) against Agyarko if he presented the committee’s deal in the house.
When Agyarko presented the committee’s report to Parliament, then-Speaker Aaron Mike Oquaye informed him that the house opposed the proposal in the report and suggested seeking approval through an executive instrument.
He further mentioned that since the president was out of the country, he sought the signature for the executive instrument from Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
However, to his surprise, when the document returned, it bore the signature of the executive secretary to the president, Nana Bediatuo Asante.
When he appeared before one of the select committees of parliament to discuss the deal, he faced strong opposition from committee members, including Dr. Mark Assibey-Yeboah, the former Chairman of the Finance Committee.
Agyarko expressed his frustration, stating that the committee did not give him a fair chance to explain himself, as they had already been influenced by false information spread by a “gang” of people who claimed that the new Ameri deal was worse than the one under the Mahama government.
He highlighted that at that time, no contract had been signed, and no payments had been made, yet calls for his dismissal were already rampant on social media, including from Manasseh Azure and Gabby.
In the end, Boakye Agyarko concluded by emphasizing the difficult position he found himself in, with people demanding his removal even before any concrete actions had been taken regarding the Ameri deal.
“This was what transpired. Manasseh Azure and Gabby had already written on social media that I should be sacked even before this happened.
“The committee which I was not part of went to work to negotiate a deal, there was no contract signed, nothing had been paid but people were calling for my head, what was I supposed to do,” he concluded in the Twi dialect.
Ghanaian NGO, Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), has received a prestigious award for its Nationwide Sensitization Campaign on Kidnapping, Teenage Pregnancy, and Tramadol/Drug Abuse (‘KTT Project’).
The project was recognized as the ‘Best International Practice Award on Sustainability’ among 1,912 projects and enterprises from 126 countries competing for their implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The award ceremony, held in San Jose, Costa Rica, was backed by Entreps-International Board of Global Actors and Business for Sustainability, with the support of 1,000 Global Jurors and in partnership with the UN75.
The KTT Project addressed pressing issues in Ghana, including kidnapping, teenage pregnancies, and drug abuse while promoting human rights education.
Since its launch in July 2019, the campaign has reached over 60,000 beneficiaries, including schoolchildren, parents, and youth groups in different regions of Ghana. The success of the initiative inspired HRRG to expand the campaign to cover all 16 regions of the country.
The award recognizes HRRG’s significant efforts in advancing societal safety and combating international crimes, reinforcing Ghana’s position in global sustainable practices.
The organization’s dedication to promoting human rights awareness and protection has garnered commendation from various individuals, organizations, and institutions both within and outside Ghana.
HRRG’s founder, Joseph Kobla Wemakor, expressed gratitude for the prestigious honor, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in uprooting societal menaces. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard human rights and contribute to a safer and more progressive society.
“for HRRG to be acknowledged by the 1,000 Global Jurors of Entreps, Joaquin Boston, the Chairman of Entreps and its Secretary-General, Raquel Torres in collaboration with the United Nations as an awardee from Ghana, West Africa to receive the revered global honor is a noteworthy accomplishment confirming Ghana’s position in global sustainable practice and setting precedence for other NGOs and stakeholders in the region to emulate”.
“It feels amazing to see our work recognized globally. But the real victory is witnessing the change and progress these communities make as a result of our constant efforts.”
The Global Entreps Awards, similar to the ‘Oscar Awards’ for sustainability, acknowledge outstanding initiatives and entities worldwide that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
This 5th edition of the Global Entreps Awards, in collaboration with the United Nations and other prominent organizations, demonstrates the international recognition and support for sustainable change initiatives. It encourages stakeholders and governments to invest in preventive strategies while dealing with social issues. Entreps, the International Board of Global Actors and Business for Sustainability, plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability and good governance.
Previous awardees include prominent organizations, initiatives, and individuals that have made substantial contributions to sustainability and positive societal impact.
Yul Edochie’s second wife, Judy Austin, has strongly responded to Nigerians criticizing her husband’s mourning process for his first son.
In a recent video, Judy expressed her frustration and lambasted those who accused Yul of moving on too quickly after the passing of Kamibilichukwu Edochie.
The couple has been facing ongoing criticism since their marriage, and the loss of Yul’s son has only intensified the negative attention.
Judy firmly asserted that Yul should be allowed to mourn his son in his own way, without judgment or interference.
She went on to defend her husband, emphasizing that false information and lies will not bring him down, and he will continue to prosper in all his endeavors.
Judy’s message was clear: she will fiercely protect her family’s reputation and won’t hesitate to confront anyone who seeks to harm them.
In conclusion, Judy Austin reminded the critics to empathize with Yul’s grief and urged them to imagine how they would mourn if they were in his shoes before passing judgment.
She wrote: “Come for me and I’ll come for you 10 times, come for Yul and I’ll come for you one thousand times. Wait till your own child dies, then you can show us how to mourn.”
The greater the number of benefits associated with engaging in sexual activity, the more compelling reasons experts provide for encouraging you to have more of it!
Besides the pleasure that accompanies fulfilling sexual experiences, numerous additional advantages make a compelling case for indulging in intimate encounters. Let’s explore some of these reasons:
It can make you look younger: Could this be one of the most intriguing findings ever? Regular sexual activity might just hold the secret to looking seven years younger! Fascinatingly, researchers have discovered that after an orgasm, the human anti-aging hormone DHEA skyrockets to five times its normal level. So, forget about those night creams and consider getting intimate for a natural beauty boost.
It can improve fertility: While it may seem like common sense, the link between frequent sexual activity and increased chances of conceiving a baby is indeed backed by science. Engaging in regular sex can significantly boost the odds of getting pregnant, as it positively impacts the quality of a man’s sperm. For those aiming for “grade-A swimmers,” adopting a routine that includes morning, noon, and night intimacy might just be the ticket to improve your chances of welcoming a new addition to the family!
It boosts your immune system: The next time you find yourself dealing with a cold or flu, consider this interesting fact: your lack of regular sexual activity might be a contributing factor. Engaging in a healthy amount of sex can actually provide a significant boost to your immune system. In essence, the more you engage in sexual activity, the less susceptible you may be to falling prey to illnesses. So, the next time you’re feeling under the weather, perhaps a little more intimacy could be just what the doctor ordered to keep those illnesses at bay!
4. It helps your heart:Indeed, the benefits of a satisfying bedroom session go beyond just the immediate rush. Engaging in regular sexual activity has been shown to have a positive impact on heart health in the long run. Surprisingly, research indicates that having sex three times a week can actually reduce the risk of a heart attack by half! With such a compelling reason to stay sexually active, taking care of your heart becomes all the more enjoyable and enticing!
5. It keeps you in shape: It’s not uncommon for people to be skeptical about the idea of sex benefiting physical health, but the truth is that it’s not a myth at all. Sex is indeed a physical activity, comparable to going to the gym, and it can certainly help burn calories. So while you’re having a pleasurable time, you’re also expending energy. The best part is that after a satisfying session, you can indulge in that bar of chocolate without feeling guilty since you’ve already burned some calories! So, embracing a healthy and enjoyable sex life can be a win-win situation for both pleasure and fitness.
6. It’s good for period pains: You’re absolutely right! While reaching for paracetamol may be a common approach to dealing with menstrual cramps, sex can offer a natural alternative as a painkiller.
Engaging in a satisfying sexual encounter can help relax your muscles and, even more impressively, trigger the release of endorphins – the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. So, in addition to being a pleasurable experience, a good romp can also provide some relief from menstrual discomfort in a natural and enjoyable way.
7. It works on wrinkles: Amidst the array of marvelous chemicals produced during sex, oestrogen stands out as an incredible wonder. Its most significant advantage lies in its ability to tighten and smoothen facial lines.
In simpler terms, engaging in more sex could potentially lead to fewer wrinkles, as oestrogen plays a part in enhancing skin appearance.
8. It makes you more attractive: While waking up as a supermodel might be a stretch, research suggests that increased sexual activity can indeed have a positive impact on your attractiveness to the opposite sex.
This phenomenon can be attributed to science. When you engage in sexual activity, your body releases more pheromones, often referred to as the “love chemical,” which has the power to attract the attention of the opposite sex. So, while becoming a supermodel might be a lofty expectation, enhancing your allure through the natural effects of pheromones is certainly a fascinating aspect of human biology.
9. It can make you live longer: While it may sound almost too good to believe, some evidence supports the idea that there could be real benefits to be gained. According to certain studies, individuals who engage in regular sexual activity, exceeding twice a week, might potentially extend their life expectancy by up to eight years. However, it’s essential to approach this information with a critical perspective and consider that various factors contribute to overall health and longevity. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking balance in all aspects of life are key to promoting well-being and potentially enjoying a longer life.
10. It can unblock your nose!: It may indeed sound surprising, but it’s true! In addition to the numerous other benefits, sex can act as a natural anti-histamine. So, the next time you find yourself dealing with itching eyes due to a high pollen count, consider easing those symptoms with a good romp!
Now that you’re armed with this interesting information, why not put it to good use? Instead of reading further, why not indulge in some enjoyable time and experience the potential benefits of this natural anti-histamine firsthand!
Ghanaian rapper, Pappy Kojo, has expressed disappointment over Cecilia Dapaah‘s decision to resign as the sanitation minister.
Amid the scandal involving stolen foreign and local currencies by her house helps, Cecilia Dapaah announced stepping aside to facilitate further investigations.
In her resignation letter addressed to President Akufo-Addo, she emphasized not wanting the matter to distract the government during a crucial time.
During a discussion on the United Showbiz, Pappy Kojo shared his thoughts, criticizing the minister’s resignation as unwise.
He believes resigning in such circumstances might imply guilt, whereas he would have fought to prove his innocence if he were in her position.
Pappy Kojo suggested that the resignation might be due to a guilty conscience and speculated that Cecilia Dapaah, as a woman, might not want to be embroiled in the chaos.
The rapper, however, clarified his lack of interest in politics, stating that such matters do not concern him, and he identifies himself as an Italian.
“She was the victim so I don’t know why she had to resign. Resigning at this point feels like she is guilty of something. She resigned out of guilty conscience, because if I am a victim, resigning won’t be the first thing to do. I will fight to prove that I am a victim. Resigning is like giving up. But then again, she is a woman so maybe she doesn’t want to be caught in the chaos,” he stated.
Background
On Friday, July 21, it was reported that two house helps of the minister were facing charges in an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly stealing a substantial amount of money, including $1 million, €300,000, and millions of Ghanaian cedis, from Cecilia Dapaah’s residence in Abelenkpe, Accra, in October 2022.
The accused, 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei, allegedly committed the theft between July and October 2022.
They have been charged with one count of conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of stealing.
During the July 22, 2023 edition of UTV’s United Showbiz, tension escalated as Ghanaian musician, Pappy Kojo, a guest on the show, engaged in intense disagreements with fellow panelist, Mr. Logic.
The two seemed to have an unresolved feud, leading to heated back-and-forth exchanges on various topics.
Feeling disrespected during the discussion, Pappy Kojo threatened to leave the set.
However, the host and producers persuaded him to stay and retain his seat. Despite the efforts, the situation remained tense.
“I won’t come and sit here only to be disrespected. I am an award-winning artiste,” Pappy Kojo stood up reached for some food, and walked off the set.
“You? An award-winning artiste. F**k your award-winning title,” he added.
At one point, Pappy Kojo stood up, reached for some food, and temporarily walked off the set, expressing his frustration. Mr. Logic responded harshly, dismissing Pappy’s claim of being an award-winning artiste.
After a brief break, Pappy returned to his seat but soon after, he sought help from another panelist, Baba Sadiq, to locate the washroom. However, he cunningly left the set, never to return.
Following his sudden exit, Pappy Kojo took to Twitter, alleging that Mr. Logic was planning to have “macho men” attack him. This claim served as his reason for abruptly leaving the show.
The episode on United Showbiz showcased the intensity of the clash between the two artists and left the audience surprised by Pappy Kojo’s unexpected departure.
Renowned as the Grandpapa of Hip-Life, Reggie Rockstone, has opened up about the profound influence of his long-time friend and colleague, Adjetey Sowah.
In an interview with the media, Hip-Life pioneer Adjetey Sowah is recognized for his significant impact on Reggie’s life and career, teaching him essential money-making skills.
Expressing deep admiration for Adjetey Sowah, Reggie described him as the blueprint for his financial success.
The strong bond between the two artists is evident as Reggie highlights the significant role Adjetey played in shaping Accra’s nightlife scene.
According to Reggie, without Adjetey Sowah, the vibrant nightlife culture in Accra would not have been what it is today.
He regarded Adjetey as a mentor and boss, someone he looked up to and learned from throughout his journey in the entertainment industry.
“I am the only living being who has beaten that man in dance, and even with that winning, it’s debatable. But nobody has ever beaten him.”
The mutual respect and admiration between Reggie Rockstone and Adjetey Sowah have forged a lasting friendship and partnership.
Reggie humbly acknowledges that he is the only living being who might have won a dance-off against Adjetey, though even that victory remains debatable, as he praises Adjetey’s unparalleled dance skills.
However, Reggie’s mentorship under Adjetey went beyond dance; he also emphasizes the valuable business lessons learned from him.
Adjetey Sowah played a crucial role in teaching Reggie how to manage finances, count money, and navigate the business aspects of the entertainment industry.
Recalling their early days, Reggie fondly remembers how Adjetey guided him on handling advance payments for shows, ensuring they both received fair compensation.
Their journey together was a beautiful time, reinforcing the profound impact Adjetey Sowah had on Reggie’s life and career.
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has stated that it remains dedicated to enhancing public awareness of its digital payment platforms to offer customers greater convenience.
Despite the directive issued last month that physical cash would no longer be accepted for bill payments, some customers still encounter challenges when using digital channels.
In response to this, the Accra East Manager of ECG, Bismark Otoo, emphasized that the “Operation Zero Revenue Mobilization” initiative serves a dual purpose.
Apart from revenue collection, it aims to educate customers about digital payment options and address system losses.
During the initiative, ECG conducts a comprehensive revenue mobilization exercise across all operational areas, inspecting premises with ECG connections to ensure customers settle their bills and reach a zero balance.
For those not receiving bills, ECG offers enrollment in the flat pay system created on the company’s platform. The objective is to generate sufficient revenue to cover supplier payments.
Additionally, the “Operation Zero” exercise provides an opportunity to educate customers on the usage of digital payment methods.
Bismark Otoo outlines that customers can opt to make payments through the mobile app or by using the shortcode, as ECG has transitioned to a cashless system.
Regarding the backlog of meter requests, the Accra East Manager provides reassuring news, stating that management has reached an agreement with meter suppliers.
Payments made by customers are now processed promptly, and service orders are sent to the meter suppliers, enabling contractors to carry out installations. This measure aims to address the issue and expedite meter installations for customers.
Enraged youth from the Asokore Mampong Municipality, in the Ashanti Region have taken violent action against the Asawase Police station following the death of one of their peers.
According to reports, the young man died as a result of mistreatment by police officers during a swoop at a hideout.
In response to their colleague’s death, the furious youth stormed the Asawase police station, pelting stones, and causing damage to the building and other properties within.
As a consequence of the attack, the police station is currently without electricity due to the damage caused to the meter.
To prevent further escalation of the situation, a significant police deployment has been put in place in the area.
Recounting the incident, the Assembly Member for Asawase West Electoral Area, Gideon Okai, revealed the extent of the damage inflicted upon the police station.
He mentioned that the youth accused the police of causing their friend’s death, while some officers denied the allegation.
This disagreement led the youth to retaliate, resulting in the destruction of several items and equipment, including the meter.
The Bolgatanga Technical University (BTU) Branch of the Technical University Teachers’ Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has raised concerns about the implementation of the new retirement benefit component in their conditions of service.
Due to alleged ambiguity in the interpretation, the TUTAG-BTU branch has threatened to embark on an industrial action starting from July 31, 2023.
The management of BTU seeks clarification on the end-of-service benefit (ESB) clause for Technical Universities to determine whether they should proceed with the payment of retirement benefits for the TUTAG-BTU branch.
However, the TUTAG-BTU branch contends that Article 16 of the conditions of service clearly outlines the criteria for ESB, requiring payment after ten years of continuous service or upon reaching voluntary or compulsory retirement age, or in the event of death while in service.
They also refer to Section 42, Clause 6 of the Technical Universities Act, 2016, Act 922 (As Amended), which unequivocally addresses the ESB for employees of polytechnics transitioning to Technical Universities.
Having served letters to the National Labour Commission (NLC) and the Vice Chancellor of BTU, the TUTAG-BTU branch insists on adhering to the interpretation enshrined in the Technical Universities Act and calls for immediate commencement of ESB payments based on the approved conditions of service, similar to other Technical Universities in the country.
Failure to comply with their demands may result in a strike action beginning on July 31, 2023.
Some female Members of Parliament (MPs) are calling for financial assistance from various civil society organizations and stakeholders to effectively fulfill their constituency duties.
They believe that such support would contribute to retaining the majority of female MPs and promote gender parity in politics.
According to the 2021 Population and Housing Census, Ghana has a higher female population, accounting for 50.7 percent of the total population, while males constitute 49.3 percent.
However, within the 8th Parliament, both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have 20 female members each, totaling 40 out of 275 MPs.
During recent NDC primaries, three female MPs lost their bids to contest in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Expressing their concerns during a breakfast meeting organized by the Parliamentary Network Africa, Members of Parliament Patricia Appiagyei, Betty Krosbi Mensah, and Sheila Bartels called for financial support to retain their seats.
“It is very important that if we are working with the CSOs, wherever you are getting your funding from, it is critical that you appreciate the challenges we have in ensuring that we are servicing our constituencies and support us especially even during our primaries. What do you do to support and ensure that we retain our numbers and be able to even appreciate the numbers that we have in Parliament?”
Patricia Appiagyei stressed the importance of recognizing the challenges MPs face while serving their constituencies, especially during primaries, and urged the civil society organizations (CSOs) to offer necessary support.
Betty Krosbi Mensah, representing Afram Plains North, highlighted the limited resources available to MPs, making it difficult to effectively represent their constituencies.
Sheila Bartels, MP for Ablekuma North, emphasized that empowering women in Parliament would encourage more women to seek these positions.
She expressed concerns about women in politics not getting the same support as their male counterparts and urged for equitable financing opportunities.
The financial support sought by these female MPs aims to ensure they can continue their parliamentary roles effectively and pave the way for greater gender representation in Ghanaian politics.
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) is taking proactive measures in collaboration with Ghana’s security agencies to combat fuel smuggling activities along the borders of the Upper East region.
To address this issue, security personnel have been strategically positioned at smuggling hotspots, leading to improved sales of quality fuel supply in the region.
Fuel smuggling has been a major challenge in Ghana’s petroleum downstream supply chain, causing adverse effects on both bulk distribution companies and consumers in terms of pricing and demand.
The Upper East Region, with its proximity to landlocked countries, has become a target for fuel smugglers who use unauthorized routes to illegally transport petroleum products, mostly under the cover of night.
To curb this illicit activity, Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Chief Executive of NPA, initiated several measures.
Tracking systems have been installed on vehicles carrying petroleum products to Bulk Distribution Companies (BDCs) and points of discharge.
Additionally, incentives have been introduced for foreign petroleum transporters who send fuel to neighboring Burkina Faso, Togo, Mali, and Niger, discouraging middlemen from engaging in smuggling.
Mr. Bashiru Natogma, the Upper East Regional Manager of NPA, emphasized the implementation of a rapid response mechanism to eradicate fuel smuggling.
He warned individuals involved in this illegal trade to cease their activities or face the consequences of the law. The crackdown on fuel smuggling is not limited to border towns but also includes defunct fuel stations.
Specific areas where the efforts are being carried out include Pindaa community in the Kassena Nankana Municipality, Nakolo in the Kassena Nankana West District, Kulungugu in the Pusiga District, Nayagnia in the Kassena Nankana Municipality, Bongo Soe in the Bongo District, and other border communities in the region.
“My team, in partnership with the security agencies, has made fuel smuggling very difficult especially at the border towns because that’s where majority of the smuggling takes place.”
“We are therefore sending a strong warning to all identified and those yet to be identified in the fuel smuggling business to stop or face the law. We are not leaving any stone unturned in the fight against fuel smuggling in the border towns and some defunct fuel stations,” Mr. Bashiru cautioned.
Mr. Natogma encouraged the public to report any illegal and unapproved activities at fuel stations or LPG refilling points to the NPA through its toll-free contact numbers. He also advised consumers to obtain receipts as evidence if they suspect cheating at the pumps.
The Head of Planning at NPA, Dominic Aboagye, assured journalists that the NPA would ensure an uninterrupted supply of quality petroleum products to both Ghanaians and clients in Burkina Faso, Togo, Mali, and Niger.
The Teacher Trainees’ Association of Ghana (TTAG) has announced that today, Monday, July 24, trainees will receive a partial payment of their outstanding allowances.
Out of the five months of unpaid allowances, the government has released GH₵241 million to stakeholders for disbursement, covering three months of the owed payments.
The delay in the payment of allowances has caused significant hardship for the trainees, and TTAG has been vocal about the negative impact on its members.
Jephthah Nana Kwame, the President of the trainees’ association, confirmed that after a series of engagements with stakeholders, the funds have been processed and transferred to the Student Loan Trust Fund through the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
While the trainees welcome the partial payment, they urge the stakeholders to ensure continuous disbursement to cover the remaining outstanding payments. The GH₵241 million allocation covers the entire academic year, and they expect the process to be expedited to receive the rest of the owed allowances for the months they spent on campus from January onwards.
In a groundbreaking move, Government has launched the issuance of National Identification numbers (Ghana-Card numbers) to newborns, achieving a successful integration of vital databases.
Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia made the momentous announcement during the 75th Anniversary of the Ghana National College in Cape Coast.
The first Ghana-Card number was issued to a newborn baby after a successful test-run on July 21, 2023.
This transformative initiative ensures that all babies born in Ghana will receive their Ghana-Card numbers and Birth Certificate Identification numbers simultaneously during their visit to Weigh-In facilities, providing lifelong identification from birth.
“The work of integrating the databases has been completed, the full test was done yesterday, and I am happy to say that the first Ghana-Card number for a baby was issued yesterday.
“So, from next month, all babies born in Ghana, once they take them to Weigh-In, they will be issued the Ghana-Card numbers and also get their Birth Certificate Identification numbers at the same time, because the two databases are talking to each other.”
“This is very transformational,” Dr Bawumia said, explaining that they will have these numbers from the time they are babies till they pass away.
The National Identification Authority (NIA) plans to issue cards with biometrics and other data when the children are older and their features are fully formed.
Vice President Bawumia highlighted that this ID issuance at birth plays a crucial role in the government’s digitalization agenda, positioning Ghana to actively participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Furthermore, during his address, Vice President Bawumia encouraged educational institutions to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a means to improve teaching, problem-solving, and critical thinking. He emphasized the potential of AI to bridge the gap between developed and developing nations, urging the integration of AI into innovative teaching strategies.
The Ghana Card is increasingly becoming the primary source of identity, serving various purposes such as Social Security, Health Insurance, and Tax Identification numbers. With the government’s commitment to staying abreast of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, this initiative marks a significant step towards a digitally empowered and AI-driven future for Ghana’s education and society at large.
Ahafo Regional Minister, George Yaw Boakye, has commissioned the Goaso Integrated Recycling and Composting Plant (IRECOP) in Akrodie, Asunafo South District for usage.
With a daily processing capacity of 400 tonnes of solid waste, the facility provides a modern waste management solution for the region.
IRECOP receives, sorts, processes, and recycles solid waste, producing organic compost for agricultural use.
Additionally, it recovers other materials like plastics and metal scraps, serving as input materials for the steel and plastic manufacturing sectors.
The plant utilizes cutting-edge technology to transform waste into valuable resources, primarily focusing on composting, converting over 60 per cent of daily waste into high-quality compost beneficial for organic farming.
As a centralized waste storage point for the region, it is equipped with specialized waste vehicles, trailers, heavy-duty machines, and tricycles.
During the inauguration, Mr. Boakye highlighted the creation of 800 direct and indirect jobs, in line with the government’s commitment to reduce unemployment.
The collaboration between the government and the private sector aims to provide proper sanitation infrastructure for managing solid and liquid waste.
Mr. Boakye emphasized the need for innovative waste management strategies to tackle the growing waste generation and maintain environmental sustainability.
He urged citizens to responsibly dispose of waste and manufacturing companies to adopt eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging to ensure sustainable waste management.
IRECOPs across the country boast a 90 per cent recovery rate, significantly contributing to environmental cleanliness and promoting tourism.
Group Manager of Treasury and Investment at the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), Lawrence Agbin, assured that no waste in the area would be wasted and encouraged community members to separate plastic waste for easy processing.
The establishment of similar plants across all 16 regions demonstrates the government’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal Six, focusing on environmental sustainability.The Omanhene of Kukuom, Osahene Kwaku Atakyi II, commended President Akufo-Addo and the JGC for their efforts in constructing the facility, which will create job opportunities and improve the health of the community.
Kumbungu’s Nwodua R/C Primary School is facing perilous conditions, endangering pupils and teachers.
Dilapidated structures, space constraints, and broken desks have led to overcrowded classrooms, where some pupils sit on stones and makeshift benches.
The school, established in 1992, has not received any renovations, leaving the buildings weakened with deep cracks and leaky roofs, posing dangers to the school community.
The dire situation has negatively impacted enrollment, with some pupils dropping out or joining nearby schools.
During the rainy season, the challenges worsen, seriously affecting teaching and learning.
Despite efforts to seek assistance from the district assembly, no actions have been taken to address the critical issues.
Both the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) chairman, Paul Alhassan Issahaku, and the area’s Assemblyman, Alhassan Tidoo, have made appeals for support to renovate the school, but their efforts have yet to yield positive responses.
Pupils expressed concern and revealed that rainy days often lead to school boycotts due to the harsh conditions.
Efforts to contact the District Chief Executive for Kumbungu, Abdul-Salam Hamza Fataw, on the matter have been unsuccessful, as calls have gone unanswered. The urgent need for support and intervention is evident, as the safety and educational opportunities of the pupils and teachers hang in the balance.
On Saturday, July 22, President Akufo-Addo paid a courtesy visit to Pope Francis in Rome to strengthen diplomatic ties between Ghana and the Vatican.
This visit was a part of the President’s official four-day visit to Italy, aiming to reaffirm the friendship between the two nations.
During the visit, the Ghanaian delegation was taken on a tour of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences at the Vatican by Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, a respected Catholic priest of Ghanaian origin.
Ghana shares the Holy See’s commitment to addressing critical issues such as the climate crisis, human trafficking, and promoting equality for all.
On the occasion of Pope Francis’ 10th anniversary as Pope, which coincided with the National Day of the Holy See, President Nana Akufo-Addo lauded the Pope’s dedication to the betterment of humanity.
Since 2013, Pope Francis has advocated for fairness, equality among nations, and has spoken against discrimination and exploitation.
The Vatican has been a supportive partner in Ghana’s development efforts, particularly in areas like education, health, and youth development over the years.
The Director-General of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), Professor Amin Alhassan, has stated that there is no freeze on staff promotions at the State Broadcaster.
During the public hearing of PAC in Accra, the Chairman of Public Accounts Committee (PAC), inquired about the alleged staff promotion freeze at the Corporation.
Professor Alhassan explained that the issue was related to the Board’s decision, which Management had taken up.
He emphasized that promotions at GBC are based on existing vacancies, and until such vacancies are confirmed, promotions are withheld.
Currently, the new organogram is under approval, and work on the new Scheme of Service is ongoing.
Due to the pending confirmation of existing vacancies, the Board decided not to proceed with promotions for this year.
However, Professor Alhassan clarified that it is not a permanent freeze, and if the Scheme of Service is completed and approved in the coming months, promotions may resume.
Dr. Avedzi highlighted that there is a temporary one-year freeze, to which Professor Alhassan responded that they are hopeful that promotions can resume once the necessary processes are in place and approved by the Public Services Commission.
Professor Alhassan reiterated that, according to the guidelines of the Public Services Commission, promotions are contingent on the existence of vacancies, and individuals can only be promoted when such vacancies are available.
He emphasized that if there are no vacancies, employees will remain in their current positions.
“So, there is no freeze, it is only one year, and if for example, the Scheme of Service is completed in the next two or three months, we should be able to argue for the promotion process to keep in, but there is no freeze on promotion,” he said.
Dr Avedzi: “At least there is a freeze for one year.”
Prof Alhassan: “We still think that it is possible, Mr. Chairman, that we might have the promotions, if the process of Scheme of Service is done, and we do the necessary establishment, and it is approved by the Public Services Commission, we will go ahead and do that.”
The Director-General reiterated that in line with the guidelines of the Public Services Commission, one could not be promoted unless there was a vacancy, declaring that “and if there is no vacancy, you stay there.”
Accompanying the Director-General at the hearing was Mr. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Minister of Information.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, holds the distinction of being the youngest IGP appointed in the Fourth Republic and the eighth youngest since Ghana’s inception as a republic.
Dr. Dampare began his journey in the police service as a Constable in December 1990, embarking on a remarkable rise through the ranks.
After 24 years of dedicated service, he attained the position of Commissioner of Police (COP) at the age of 44 in the year 2014.
Subsequently, he was appointed Acting IGP and later confirmed as the IGP by President Akufo-Addo on August 1, 2021.
Since assuming his role, the nation and the police service have undergone noteworthy transformations, ranging from a decreased crime rate to an enhanced trust in the integrity and public image of the police force.
Decreased crime rate
The primary responsibilities of the police service are to maintain peace, uphold law and order within Ghana’s borders, and to actively address and prevent criminal activities in the nation.
During his tenure, IGP Dampare has effectively contributed to a notable reduction in the country’s crime rate, as evidenced by reports from the Crime Index Ghana spanning from 2014 to 2023.
The report indicates that in 2019, the level of crime in Ghana reached a peak of nearly 52 points but subsequently experienced a significant decline to 44.5.
The crime index serves as a measurement of crime levels in a given country or city. This decline in the crime index indicates that, during that time, Ghana experienced a considerable decrease in criminal activities, with the crime rate being categorized as moderately low.
Restoration of police integrity and trust
Prior to his appointment, it was a common practice for some police officers to cite “orders from above” as a reason for not prosecuting certain individuals and ensuring justice.
However, since IGP Dampare assumed his role, this practice has significantly decreased. He has been vocal in various media engagements, emphasizing his commitment to empower his officers to treat all individuals equally under the law.
As a result of this approach, five Members of Parliament were arrested for violating the law, with most of the cases involving traffic offenses.
The MPs arrested were: Emmanuel Kofi Buah (Ellembele MP), Mohammed Adams Sukparu (Sissala West MP), Dr. Stephen Amoah (Nhyiaeso MP), Kwabena Ohemeng-Tinyase (Former Kade MP), and George Mireku Duker (Tarkwa Nsuaem MP).
Furthermore, the recent arrest of influential individuals from the New Patriotic Party during the Assin-North bye-elections for electoral malpractice has dispelled allegations that the police service is acting as an arm of the government to oppress the minority.
IGP Dampare’s actions have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the rule of law without favoritism or bias.
Created a more relatable police force
IGP Dampare has exemplified the essence of the phrase, “The police is your friend.” From the onset of his tenure, he has prioritized building connections with ordinary Ghanaians. Whether it’s addressing angry youth in Ada regarding a dispute with the Electricity Company of Ghana or engaging with students at a public school who were initially apprehensive about the police, IGP Dampare has made personal connections to demonstrate that the police are approachable and supportive.
In an effort to reassure the young pupils that the police are indeed their friends, a high-powered delegation of senior officers, led by the IGP, visited the school to educate them about the duties and roles of the Ghana Police Service.
His relatable approach has earned him the endearing title of “the celebrity IGP,” and it has led many to perceive the police service under his leadership as more appealing and approachable. By fostering a friendly and empathetic image, IGP Dampare has been successful in strengthening the bond between the police and the Ghanaian community.
An end to the incessant rise of doom prophecies
On December 31, 2021, the usual ominous prophecies about deaths, diseases, and negative premonitions by certain prominent preachers were notably absent.
The reason behind this change was the proactive warning issued by the IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. He cautioned these individuals to exercise caution in their prophecies during that time of the year to avoid infringing the law. The law enforcement department was prepared to take action against those who engaged in fearmongering without any evidence to support their claims.
The IGP’s warning had a significant impact, as he emphasized that under Ghanaian law, it is considered a crime for anyone to publish or spread statements, rumors, or reports likely to cause fear, alarm, or disturb public peace without concrete evidence to substantiate their claims.
This stance by the police force aimed to curb the dissemination of baseless and alarming predictions, ensuring a sense of security and peace among the public during the New Year celebrations.
The introduction of K-9 units and horse patrol operation
During IGP Dampare’s tenure, the Ghana Police Service introduced innovative measures to enhance law enforcement capabilities. One notable initiative was the establishment of horse patrol units and the deployment of K-9 units to strategic vantage points across the country. In October 2021, the Ghana Police Service revealed that officers, along with highly trained security dogs, were stationed at key locations in Accra.
This novel approach to policing aimed at achieving multiple objectives. Firstly, it increased the visibility of police personnel in public areas, fostering a sense of security and reassurance among the public. Secondly, it facilitated improved intelligence gathering, allowing the police to stay ahead of potential criminal activities and respond swiftly to emerging threats. Additionally, the K-9 units proved instrumental in detecting and tracking contraband goods, further bolstering the fight against illegal activities.
In August of the same year, the Police Administration extended this progressive policing approach by introducing the use of horses for patrol operations in Tema, Accra, and their surrounding communities. The incorporation of mounted officers not only added an extra layer of visibility and accessibility to policing but also proved to be an effective method for patrolling various terrains, especially in densely populated urban areas.
These modern and strategic advancements in the Ghana Police Service demonstrated IGP Dampare’s commitment to embracing innovative methodologies to ensure public safety, combat crime, and foster community trust in law enforcement.
Under the esteemed leadership of the Vice Chairman for the African Region and Ambassador at Large to the African Union, HE Amb. Abu Zein, the African office of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC AFRICA) in Accra is organizing the International Relations, Diplomacy, and Human Rights Summit 2023 (IRDHRS) on July 25, 2023, at 2:00 PM GMT.
The summit, chaired by HE Ambassador Dr. Muhammad SA Khan, World Chair and Ambassador-at-large of the International Human Rights Commission, will be conducted virtually via the Zoom communication platform and streamed on IHRC Africa and Geneva Facebook Pages.
With the theme “Assessment of Unjust Wars and Global Instability on Human Rights,” this summit is an integral part of the preliminary activities leading up to the 7th World Summit for Human Rights 2023 in Geneva, Switzerland, later in the year.
The International Human Rights Commission was founded in London on December 10, 1988, by seven organizations with the aim of establishing an international network for the protection of Human Rights. As an inter-governmental organization, IHRC Africa holds Observer status from the United Nations Environment Program and the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
This momentous summit, hosted by IHRC Africa, aims to shed light on the impact of unjust wars and global instability on human rights in the modern era. It endeavors to explore potential solutions that can advance human rights for a better world, leveraging IHRC Africa’s position as an intergovernmental organization headquartered in Accra, Ghana.
The International Relations, Diplomacy, and Human Rights Summit 2023 offers an opportune platform to initiate discussions on international relations, particularly emphasizing interactions among sovereign states and diplomacy. It highlights the linkage between International Relations and Diplomacy as primary instruments of foreign policy, representing the broader goals and strategies that guide a state’s engagement with the world and form the foundation upon which the fundamental human rights of all individuals are built. International human rights law, as a beneficiary of International Relations and Diplomacy, plays a crucial role in these endeavors.
Throughout history, unjustifiable actions in war have been regarded as war crimes, even if the wars in which they occur are deemed just. Conversely, unjust wars are counted as internationally illegal acts of aggression for which national governments or military commands, rather than individual soldiers, bear responsibility. The consequences of just and unjust wars have contributed to global instability in human rights.
Despite the historical antecedents of wars and conflicts on the African continent, the protection of basic human rights in Africa has been championed by courageous individuals within civil society.
As democracy has taken root across the continent, the significance of human rights for Africa’s long-term security and development has gained widespread recognition, prompting numerous African national and intergovernmental institutions to actively address human rights issues.
The summit will see the presence of high-profile personalities such as H.E. Abu Zein, Vice Chair for the African Region and Ambassador-at-Large to the Africa Union for IHRC Africa, and H.E. Dr. Mohammad Shahid Amin Khan, World Chairman of IHRC.
Distinguished speakers and moderators, including Dr. Ruby Appiah-Campbell, Assistant Professor of Marketing at Loughborough University and founder of Life Beacon International, UK, Hon. Ms. Silver Patino, Deputy Minister of Justice, Paraguay, and Hon. Hosna Jahil, Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Interior, Afghanistan, will enrich the summit with their valuable insights. Additional speakers include Professor Stephen Alder Ph.D., Executive Director of the Centre for Business, Health, and Prosperity at the University of Utah, USA, Dr. Houda Chini, PHD, Senior Researcher and Technical Enthusiast Expert in Digital Transformation, Cyber Security, and Internet Governance, Chief Engineer at Tunisia telecom, Dr. Chief Nathaniel E Nsarko, Director General of the International Human Rights Commission Africa, Angelo Coroneo, International Relations Students and Junior Coordinator Associazione Diplomatic, Belgium, and Giulia Tariello, Italian Youth Delegate to the UN, Italy.
This summit endeavors to foster meaningful discussions on the actions and inactions of just and unjust wars and underscore the importance of protecting human rights in accordance with international human rights law.
It serves as a platform for understanding and upholding the dignity of all human beings and the rights that govern their relationships with society and the State.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana International Trade and Finance Conference (GITFiC), Selasi Koffi Ackom, has visited Namibia upon the invitation of African Economic Leadership Council (AECL).
During his visit, Mr. Ackom also had the opportunity to meet with various dignitaries to discuss matters concerning the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and related issues.
According to a statement shared with the media, Mr. Ackom was present as a special guest of honor at the second Discover Namibia Intra-Africa Township Expo and Business Conference in Swakopmund.
During this time, he took the chance to meet with important figures.
At Namibia’s State House, Mr. Ackom was warmly welcomed by Ambassador Claudia Grace Uushona, the Executive Director to the President, and Daisry Mathias OBAL, the Presidential Advisor on Youth Matters & Enterprise Development.
Discussions during this meeting focused on raising awareness and educating the Namibian community about AfCFTA, as well as exploring how the business community and educational structures in Namibia could benefit from the valuable content in GITFiC’s book on AfCFTA. The matter of Ghana-Namibia Trade Relations also came up during the discussions.
During his visit, the approved book on AfCFTA, authored by GITFiC, was officially presented to President Hage Gottfried Geingob through his Executive Director.
In addition to this, the official communique and action plans from the 7th GITFiC, which took place at the Royal Senchi in the Eastern Region of Ghana, regarding Africa’s prospects for a single currency, were also submitted to the Namibian Presidency. The meeting for this submission was facilitated by the African Economic Leadership Council, led by Councillor Hafeni Heinrich Heinrich Hafeni.
Moreover, Mr. Ackom held a meeting with Conrade Dempsey, the Group Chief Executive of First Rand, the holders of First National Bank Namibia (FNB FNBNamibia). During this meeting, a mini AfCFTA book re-launch was organized at the bank’s Headquarters in Windhoek.
Conrade Dempsey, who had previously obtained a copy of the book at the conference, highly recommended its content during the mini-launch. As a result, the bank ordered a substantial number of copies for their MSMEs and SMEs customers to support GITFiC’s efforts in sensitizing and educating the public about the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The Africa Economic Leadership Council, under the leadership of Councillor Heinrich Hafeni, facilitated this initiative.
Reports from the Financial Post, has indicated that the debt owed by Aiteo Eastern E&P Co., a prominent Nigerian domestic oil producer, to Shell Plc and seven Nigerian banks has surged to approximately $2.6 billion.
This debt originated from a 2015 asset sale when Aiteo purchased a pipeline and an operating interest in one of Nigeria’s highly profitable onshore oil blocks for $2.4 billion.
To facilitate the acquisition, local lenders including Zenith Bank Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, and others extended a loan of $1.5 billion to Aiteo. Additionally, Shell, the seller of the permit, contributed $504 million in funding.
However, a legal dispute ensued between the parties in late 2019 when the creditors informed Aiteo of its default on the debt.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Aiteo’s outstanding debt has increased to around $2.6 billion, incorporating interest, fees, and penalties.
Due to ongoing litigation and arbitration, discussions between the involved parties are confidential, and the individuals sharing this information preferred not to be identified.
In previous court and arbitration filings, the creditors stated that the debt figure was $1.7 billion at the end of 2021 and $910 million a year earlier.
In response to the dispute, Aiteo filed court documents in 2019, stating that it had already repaid a substantial amount of $1.2 billion and denied being in default.
However, the company has chosen not to publicly comment on the matter. As for Shell and the other lenders, they either declined to comment or did not respond to emailed inquiries.
The Member of Parliament for Assin Central and a hopeful for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer position, Kennedy Agyapong has reaffirmed his belief that pragmatic leadership outweighs language proficiency in politics.
While campaigning in the northern parts of the country and addressing delegates on Twitter, he emphasized that effective leadership can create job opportunities and improve people’s financial well-being.
Agyapong stressed that politics should not be solely about English proficiency but rather the ability to develop the country and uplift its citizens.
Agyapong is considered a frontrunner in the NPP presidential primaries, competing with Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia and former trade minister Alan Kyerematen.
Alongside them, seven other aspirants have been approved to contest in the preliminary election, which will eventually narrow down the number of candidates to five before the main election in November this year.
The Evangelical Presbyterian (E.P) Church Ghana has launched a project in all its 15 presbyteries nationwide to address gender-based violence, including Child, Early, and Forced Marriage (CEFM).
The initiative aims to empower women and girls, enabling them to make decisions for their welfare.
Named “Promotion of Gender Equality Through the Prevention of Child, Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) and other Harmful Practices against Girls and Women within the EP Church, Ghana and its Environs,” the 3-year project will strengthen girls’ skills and knowledge to understand and exercise their rights.
The Evangelical Presbyterian Development and Relief Agency (EPDRA) will oversee the project’s implementation, which will be carried out in 3 phases, with 5 presbyteries participating in each phase.
The goal is to prevent and reduce violence experienced by vulnerable groups, especially women and girls within the Church’s jurisdiction, through enhanced knowledge and positive societal attitudes among all stakeholders.
The Moderator of the General Assembly of the EP Church, Rt. Rev. Dr. Col. Bliss Divine Agbeko (RTD), emphasized the importance of boys’ inclusion in such initiatives, as boys who drop out of school could pose a greater risk to society.
The Volta Regional Director of Social Welfare, Stella Mawusi, highlighted the prevalence of child protection cases in the region and called for collaborative efforts to combat gender-based violence.
The Volta Regional Director for the Department of Gender, Thywill Eyra Kpe, expressed hope that the project would support the government’s National Strategic Framework to end child marriage by 2027.
The Ho Municipal Chief Executive, Divine Bosson, officially launched the project and assured the Assembly’s commitment to its successful implementation. Partners in this initiative include the National Council on Women and Development (NCWD), DOVVSU, and CHRAJ, with funding from CEVAA.
The Chief Justice, Getrude Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has adviced to Ghanaians, not to pay for mediation charges during Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) proceedings in the country.
She shared this guidance at a public forum held after the inauguration of her first court complex as Chief Justice in Baatsonaa, Tema West Municipality, Greater Accra Region.
The forum’s theme was “Improving Justice Delivery through Community Engagement” and aimed to educate citizens about how the justice system operates.
Lady Justice Torkornoo clarified that the government pays the Mediators at various ADR outlets, making it unnecessary for disputing parties to pay for their services after mediation.
ADR was established to expedite cases that can be resolved through consensus, avoiding the lengthier court process. Lady Justice Torkornoo emphasized that ADR cases remain confidential and do not go for appeal.
Once a consensus is reached, the parties involved sign an undertaking to fulfill their commitments.
She highlighted ADR as the best and fastest approach to resolve many civil disputes among aggrieved parties without initiating lengthy court proceedings.
Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and offer suggestions directly to the Chief Justice during the forum.
A Public Administration expert, Professor Justice Nyigmah Bawole, has emphasized the need for continuous discussions on ethical standards and integrity in public service.
He expresses concern over the lack of public ethics among high-ranking officials, which he finds troubling for the State.
During the S.N. Woode Memorial Lecture organized by the Institute of Local Government Service (ILGS), Professor Bawole calls for a sustained dialogue on public integrity, encouraging people to openly discuss their own integrity.
He advises public administrators to avoid accepting gifts, as it can compromise their integrity.
Furthermore, Professor Bawole urges public officers to set personal ethical standards as an example for others.
He advocates for the creation of ethical leadership guides and suggests building alliances with like-minded individuals to seek guidance in navigating the complex public administration system.
Additionally, he stresses the importance of mentoring the youth in upholding ethical practices.
Former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, Prof. Stephen Adei, emphasizes that the public sector’s effectiveness directly impacts the private sector’s performance.
Encouraging integrity and honesty in public service is crucial, as the public sector serves as the engine of national growth.
The Chairman of ILGS Council, Emeritus Prof. Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa, praises the late Prof. Woode for his exemplary leadership in public service.
He calls for public office holders to emulate the principles and ideals exemplified by Prof. Woode to contribute to national development.
President Akufo-Addo has accepted the resignation of the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.
Unconventionally, no immediate replacement in an acting capacity has been named.
Instead, the Chief Director will lead the ministry until an official announcement is made.
There are indications in the corridors of power that the President intends to appoint someone who seamlessly fits the vacancy and can bypass parliamentary vetting, meaning a serving minister may be chosen.
The list of potential replacements aligns with that of pro-government outlet Asaase Radio, which was published shortly after Dapaah’s resignation.
The possible replacements for the position are as follows:
The current Minister of Works and Housing, Francis Asenso-Boakye: the President may consider merging the two portfolios or appoint Asenso-Boakye in an acting capacity, but only time will reveal the decision.
Deputy minister in the Ministry of Works and Housing, Freda Prempeh: is highly tipped for the position. She is presently associated with the Ministry of Works and Housing.
The MP for Suame and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu: is also seen as a potential replacement. He has previously served in an acting role at the finance ministry.
However, his move to this new position might require the NPP to reset its leadership due to his role as the Majority Leader in Parliament.
Other names making rounds as potential acting ministers include Dan Botwe, Samuel Jinapor, and Henry Quartey.
Both Dan Botwe and Samuel Jinapor have prior experience as acting ministers. The final decision rests with the President, and the public awaits the official appointment.
The Deputy Minister of Health, Hon. Mahama Asei Seini, has highlighted the significance of the HO medical waste treatment facility in addressing public health concerns in the Volta region.
During the commissioning of the first medical waste treatment facility in the region, the Minister emphasized that conventional methods of medical waste treatment, such as incineration, landfill disposal, and re-use of medical waste, pose health hazards to the public.
He expressed confidence that the new technology deployed at the facility, equipped with state-of-the-art Microwave Treatment Equipment (Ecosteryl), will effectively safeguard public health.
The facility has a daily treatment capacity of 5,000Kg (5 tons) of hazardous waste and is expected to create around 200 direct and indirect jobs for residents in the region.
Mr. Said Haidar, the Executive Director of the Jospong Group of Companies (Environment and Sanitation Cluster), praised President Akufo-Addo for creating a conducive environment for the private sector to thrive.
“This medical waste treatment facility being commissioned is environmentally friendly as it uses unique technology which is a Microwave Treatment Equipment that will treat 5,000Kg of hazardous waste. This facility will minimize the health risks of improper medical waste treatment”, he emphasized.
He highlighted the company’s commitment to providing public health services, citing their work in larvae source management, mosquito population control, and COVID-19 disinfection.
The newly commissioned medical waste treatment facility uses environmentally friendly Microwave Treatment Equipment, specifically designed to treat hazardous waste, thereby minimizing health risks associated with improper medical waste treatment.
The Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, explained that the government, as part of its initiatives, plans to establish 16 Integrated Recycling and Composting Plants (IRECOPs) and 14 Medical Waste Treatment facilities across the region.
The facility will cater to the health facilities in the region and its surroundings, generating employment opportunities while contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing.
The Paramount Queen Mother of Akrofu Traditional Area, Mamaga Akua Sebea Nyabor VII, expressed her gratitude to the Jospong Group of Companies and President Akufo-Addo for establishing the facility in her community. She also urged the government to consider improving the road leading to the facility for ease of access and patronage.
To mark the ‘International Day of the African Child,’ UBA Ghana celebrated with a book donation to Ngleshie Amanfro Senior High School and Odupong Senior High School in Kasoa, both located in the Central Region.
The donated books included ‘The Girl Who Can’ by the late Ama Atta Aidoo, a renowned Ghanaian author known for her captivating literary works, and ‘Segu’ by Maryse Conde from Guadeloupe.
Linda Segbefia, Corporate Communications Officer at UBA Ghana, led a team of staff to present the books on behalf of the UBA Foundation in a brief ceremony. She emphasized the significance of instilling a culture of reading and love for books among students, recognizing the importance of stimulating their minds and creativity through access to quality literature.
The UBA Foundation’s Read Africa initiative aims to revitalize the declining reading culture among African youth. The International Day of the African Child provided an opportune moment for UBA Ghana to share these African literary works with students and enrich their school libraries.
Mr. Clement Appiatu, the School Head of Ngleshie Amanfro SHS, expressed gratitude to UBA Ghana for their thoughtful gesture and praised the Read Africa initiative. Similarly, Bernard Korwonu, Assistant Headmaster in charge of Academics, and Ebenezer Prah, Assistant Headmaster in charge of Administration at Odupong Senior High, also conveyed their appreciation to the bank and assured that the donated books would be put to good use.
The students were visibly thrilled to receive the books and extended their gratitude to the bank for the commendable initiative. They enthusiastically pledged to read the books to enhance their knowledge and reading skills.
During the event, the UBA team interacted with the students, offering advice on the importance of developing a habit of reading.
UBA Ghana’s continuous efforts to promote literacy among students reflect their unwavering commitment to education and empowering young minds with access to enriching literature.
The Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, urged G20 Labour and Employment Ministers to take decisive action on several critical issues.
He emphasized the need to bridge skills gaps, bolster social protection systems, and adopt sustainable financing methods for employment and social protection policies.
In addition, Mr. Houngbo advocated for addressing the widening disparities in the global labor market and reducing inequalities. He made these calls during the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ meeting, which focused on sustainable funding for social protection, extending social security to workers in the gig and platform economies, and tackling the global skills gap.
The meeting, hosted by India in Indore, centered around three key topics: addressing global skills gaps, expanding social protection to platform and gig workers, and establishing sustainable financing for national social protection systems.
Mr. Houngbo expressed concern over the deepening global employment divide, especially in the face of various global challenges and uncertainties. He stressed that more resources need to be mobilized globally to promote social justice. The UN Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions was cited as a vital initiative in generating the required technical and financial support. Mr. Houngbo proposed that such endeavors should be part of broader reforms in the international financial architecture to make more resources available for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Director-General discussed the Antalya Youth target, aiming to reduce the proportion of young people (15%) at risk of permanent labor market exclusion by 2025. He highlighted the significance of promoting more and better employment for the youth, particularly to tackle gender inequality. This could be achieved by investing in economic sectors with high youth employment potential and enhancing the quality of employment to encourage greater participation in the labor market.
Mr. Houngbo emphasized the importance of investing in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and quality apprenticeship programs to support disadvantaged youth. Combining active labor market policies with income support was also recommended to help reach those in need.
During the meeting, the Ministers discussed strategies to address skills gaps, aiming to boost productivity and wages while reducing workforce turnover. They also emphasized the need for a standardized language on skills and qualifications to enable cross-country comparability and mutual recognition of skills.
A member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communications team, Clement Wilkinson, has made an audacious claim regarding the millions of dollars and pounds found in the home of the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah.
He suggested that the funds could be unaccounted donations received at recent funerals, including those of her brother and mother.
According to Wilkinson, the company that dredged the Odaw River might have contributed to the donations, as they received a significant amount for their services.
“The company which received $43 million dollars to dredge the Odaw river could have given Cecilia Dapaah $2 million dollars in funeral donation. You know Until the family meets to look at the entire donation, it would not be touched. It could be the reason the money was at her home”
Former Deputy Information Minister Felix Kwakye Fosu shared parts of the video on Twitter, expressing shock at the NPP communicator’s explanation.
The minister’s domestic staff is accused of stealing substantial amounts of money, jewelry, and clothing from her home.
Under pressure from various groups, including the minority, civil society organizations, and anti-corruption groups, the minister is still in her post, but calls for her resignation or removal by the President persist.
