Black Stars head coach Otto Addo is likely to hand a debut call-up to England-born Ghanaian striker Eddie Nketiah, as Ghana prepares for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament in the United Kingdom later this month.

The 25-year-old, who recently helped Crystal Palace secure their first-ever domestic cup title with a historic win over Manchester City in the FA Cup, has reportedly declared his readiness to switch international allegiance and represent Ghana, following years of being overlooked by England.

A product of England’s youth system, Nketiah who was born to Ghanaian parents, has featured for the Three Lions at U-18, U-19, and U-21 levels. 

However, his patience appears to have run out after failing to receive a senior team call-up, prompting him to make himself available for the Black Stars.

Recently, he declared his intention to play for the Black Stars in an interview after he had previously snubbed suggestions to switch to Ghana.

“When I was younger, representing England was a natural choice after progressing through the youth system. However, if Ghana invites me, I will gladly accept,” Nketiah said in a recent interview with The Beautiful Game podcast.

Born in London to Ghanaian parents, Nketiah’s decision has been warmly welcomed by many Ghanaian fans eager to see fresh attacking options in the national team setup.

Speaking to Akoma FM, Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, hinted at the inclusion of new faces in the squad for the Unity Cup. 

While he did not confirm any specific names, he noted that the technical team was considering how best to approach the tournament.

“There will be some fresh additions while keeping the core of the team,” Asante Twum said. “Coach Addo sees this as an opportunity to test new players ahead of more competitive fixtures.”

The Unity Cup will bring together four national teams—Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago—at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford. 

Ghana will face West African rivals Nigeria in the semifinal on May 28, with the winner advancing to the final on May 31 to face the victor of the match between Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago.

Coach Addo is expected to announce his squad within the week, as the Black Stars look to blend emerging talent with experience for what promises to be a high-profile mini-tournament celebrating African and Caribbean football.

The Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan-Mensah, has said the government will expand renewable energy to augment the energy mix.

He said that was part of broader transformational plan to address challenges in the energy sector.

Mr Gyan-Mensah indicated that the country’s renewable energy was just about three per cent of the total energy requirement, hence the government’s plan to expand it to at least 10 per cent by 2030.

He, therefore, called on investors to take advantage of the opportunities in Ghana’s energy sector. 

Business forum

He was speaking at the Ghanaian-German Economic Association (GGEA) business forum attended by Ghanaian and German businesses as well as local and German investors in Accra last Wednesday (May 14).

The event, dubbed; “CEO’s Time with the Ambassador and the Minister” was also graced by the German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull. It was on the theme: “Exploring Bilateral Trade and Energy Opportunities in Ghana’s 24-hour Economy Agenda”.

Mr Gyan-Mensah said the ministry was ready to welcome investors in Ghana’s energy sector.

He disclosed that the investment prospects in the energy sector were enormous, citing the growing electricity demand of 300 megawatts (MW) annually and monthly petroleum product consumptions of more than 400,000 metric tonnes.

“Ghana is a leading destination for energy investments in West Africa and beyond.

As a government, our transformational agenda in the energy sector is anchored on four cardinal principles; energy security, affordability, universal access and regulatory predictability. 

“In the petroleum sector, the construction of a second Gas Processing Plant with the capacity of 150-300 mmscfd is under consideration,” he stated.

Mr Gyan-Mensah called on interested investors to partner with the government to launch the country into a future of a more sustainable energy production; saying “We are not seeking financial investors, but long-term partners to create sustainable solutions”.

Energy Transmission Framework

Mr Gyan-Mensah said the government was looking to achieve a “net zero emission by 2070”, based on the energy transmission framework launched last year by the previous government.

That, he said, was grounded in energy efficiency, decarbonisation and inclusive development such as the promotion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, biofuels, an AI-enabled exploration tool for upstream operations and the recognition of natural gas as a bridging fuel. 

Continuity

Speaking at the event, the President of GGEA, Dr MacDonald Vasnani, commended the government’s continuity in implementing projects initiated by the previous administration, citing it as a positive sign for investment in the country.

On Ghana’s renewable energy potential, he expressed the belief that the country could leverage both solar and wind energy, with solar being particularly promising for homes to go off the national grid.

He also mentioned the potential for nuclear energy and hydrogen power, although they might require significant investment and private sector partnerships.

The President of GGEA called for a review of current import duties on electric vehicles (EVs) as the law treated EVs as luxury vehicles.

He explained that with the country looking at achieving clean energy and promoting a healthy climate, it must review the policy in order not to drive out investors in the EV space.

Negotiation of BOT rates

Dr Vasnani also emphasised the need for the government to negotiate better rates for build-operate-transfer (BOT) projects from private partners, which could unlock more opportunities for development in the energy sector.

He also called on the government to invest in the technical schools to focus on training personnel to maintain and service renewable energy systems to address the poor maintenance culture for government infrastructure.

Ghana Stock Exchange Composite Index goes up by 4.51% to 6,707.64 points

Ghana’s equities market extended its bullish run last week backed by a strong rally in MTN Ghana shares.

The surge pushed the Ghana Stock Exchange Composite Index (GSE-CI) up by 4.51% to 6,707.64 points marking its strongest weekly performance so far this year.

The GSE Financial Stock Index (GSE-FSI) also edged higher gaining 0.94% to close at 3,168.48 points.

Market capitalisation rose to a record GH¢143.71 billion up from GH¢140.25 billion the previous week reflecting heightened investor confidence.

Trading activity also rose with weekly turnover soaring 347.04% in volume and 128.18% in value as GH¢102.57 million worth of shares were traded across the bourse.

MTN Ghana (MTNGH) emerged as the week’s top performer, advancing 7.27% to close at GH¢3.54. This lifted its year-to-date (YTD) return to 41.60%, making it the standout stock of the year so far.

The telecom giant also led in trading activity, contributing over 20.99 million shares valued at GH¢70.04 million.

Other notable gainers included Unilever Ghana (UNIL): Up GH¢0.96 to GH¢25.50 (+5.13% YTD), Ecobank Ghana (EGH): Gained GH¢0.30 to close at GH¢7.50 (+15.38% YTD), Fan Milk (FML): Rose by GH¢0.10, pushing its YTD return to 10.81%, GCB Bank (GCB): Up 20.25% YTD, Guinness Ghana Breweries (GGBL): Advanced 9.09% YTD.

The upbeat performance underscores growing investor appetite for equities amid improving market sentiment.

SP/MA

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By Simon Asare

Accra, May 18, GNA – Ghana’s long-standing national record in the 400m for both men and women has been shattered by two rising stars.

Joseph Taylor, a first-year student at Duke University, ran 44.98s, breaking Ibrahim Hassan’s 29-year Ghanaian 400m record (45.13s) set in 1996.

Taylor had an outstanding performance in the finals of the 400m ACC Outdoor Championships in Winston-Salem, NC, winning the silver medal.

Taylor’s 44.98s was his personal best, and he looks a top prospect for Ghanaian athletics in the near future.

In the women’s category, Rafiatu Nuhu also demolished the nine-year record after clocking an impressive 51.46s at the 2025 NJCAA D1 Outdoor Championships.

The previous national record of 51.82s was set by Akua Obeng-Akrofi in 2018.

Nuhu’s outstanding performance in the NJCAA Outdoor Championships at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson, Kansas, USA, guaranteed that she finished first in Heat four and advanced to the next round.

She would be hoping to secure a place in the finals and win a medal later in the competition.

GNA

KOA

The Minority Caucus on Parliament’s Finance Committee has raised concerns over what it describes as a conflict of interest involving the Committee’s Chairman, Isaac Adongo, who also serves as a board member of the Bank of Ghana (BoG).

In a press statement dated May 16 and signed by the Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, Dr. Stephen Amoah, the group questioned both the legality and ethical implications of the Bolgatanga MP occupying the two roles concurrently.

Citing Standing Order 228(2) of Parliament, the caucus noted that the Finance Committee is mandated to monitor the central bank’s foreign exchange receipts and payments and report to Parliament every six months.

“The law provides that the Bank of Ghana must report to the Finance Committee. How can a board member of the same BoG chair that committee?” the statement questioned, referencing a potential breach of the principle of natural justice — nemo judex in causa sua — which means no one should be a judge in their own cause.

The statement also referenced Article 184(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which assigns oversight of foreign exchange transactions to the Finance Committee.

According to the Minority, Isaac Adongo’s dual role compromises the committee’s independence and constitutes a structural conflict of interest.

While the Minority acknowledged the financial rationale behind some of Hon. Adongo’s recent public remarks — particularly those regarding the withdrawal of foreign exchange — they stressed that his current role as a non-executive board member limits his scope of authority.

“Even if the statement is financially prudent, his prescribed responsibility as a non-executive board member is being overstepped,” the statement said.

I’m solving energy crisis, not grumbling – John Jinapor

The Digital Access to Rural Empowerment (DARE) programme has commenced at Somanya and Bekwai, bringing transformative digital training opportunities to underserved communities in Ghana.

The first phase of the initiative, which began on Monday, May 12, 2025, is currently training 80 young mothers and women aged between 15 and 35.

The training focuses on equipping participants with practical digital skills designed to enhance employability, support entrepreneurship and ultimately drive economic independence in rural settings.

Speaking to the media, the Director of Innovation at GI-KACE Consult and the Project Coordinator for the DARE programme, Mr Fredrick Yeboah, shared insights into the programme’s vision and implementation.

“The DARE programme is not just about digital skills, it’s about creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods for young women and mothers in rural Ghana.

In this first phase, we expect to train around 240 participants across the communities, preparing them to access meaningful employment opportunities or start income-generating ventures,” Mr Yeboah stated.

Through a carefully curated curriculum, participants will be introduced to essential ICT tools, online platforms for business and digital entrepreneurship concepts.

The initiative also incorporates soft skills development and mentorship to support long-term success.

The DARE programme is a timely intervention for communities such as Somanya (Yilo-Krobo Municipality) and Bekwai, where digital exclusion has hindered economic growth for women and youth.

By promoting inclusion and resilience, DARE is positioning itself as a catalyst for broader socioeconomic transformation in Ghana’s rural landscape.

In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and implemented by GI-KACE Consult, with UNESCO and the University of Ghana Business School as partners, the programme is already impacting lives across its pilot locations.

The programme is expected to expand its reach in subsequent phases, scaling up to include additional communities, while strengthening partnerships with local leaders, government bodies and community-based organisations.

As the training continues, early feedback from participants reflects optimism, motivation and a renewed sense of purpose, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward digital inclusion and empowerment in Ghana.

The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has refuted suggestions of a power crisis amid intermittent blackouts and low currents experienced in some parts of the country.

His response follows criticism from a section of Ghanaians and some energy experts about continued lamentations since taking office.

Critics also faulted the minister for persistently presenting a gloomy outlook on the power sector.

The minister disclosed to Parliament’s Energy Committee about a week ago that the country had just 2.6 days’ worth of liquid fuel left to power thermal plants, with the ministry racing against time to raise funds for fuel procurement.

But this did not go down well with some individuals who asked the minister to focus on fixing the problems rather than dwelling on challenges.

Addressing the matter, Mr Jinapor stated, “I didn’t say we will have a challenge; I didn’t say we have a crisis. We are not in crisis; we are doing fairly well. Yes, we have challenges, but that is why we were voted into power to solve those challenges. If I am putting a solution across, that solution should be dealing with a challenge”.

READ ALSO: Fix the power crisis and stop the excuses – Agyekumhene tells Energy Minister

In an interview on Citi FM on Monday, May 19, he explained, “Parliament also wanted the statistics of all our fuel stocks, and I gave them to them. I also went further to say that we have ordered fuel, and we are getting that today, to replace what we have in stock.

“The facts are that Karpowership threatened to shut down, and we resolved the matter; that is not grumbling, that is solving the problem. It is sitting around the table to find the solution,” he replied.

According to him, the country’s “load shedding was around 70-80 megawatts, which was a shortfall, but the government has made arrangements for plants since taking over office to address the issue.

“Before the committee, I gave them all the statistics, then I moved on to tell them the challenges and also the moves to solve the challenges. For instance, I told them that we have inaugurated the gas processing committee to come up with how to build the gas processing plants so that we don’t depend on liquid fuel. That is not grumbling; we are solving the problem,” he added.

“I understand grumbling very well, and I don’t think that when you appear before a committee and you present facts, they term that as grumbling. Unless, as a minister, I needed to hide that fact,” he stated.

“ECG said they want private sector participation; we have inaugurated a committee, and they have done stakeholder consultation, and now we have to move on to implementation. That is not grumbling. It is dealing with the challenges,” he explained.

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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Akyereba Grace, a Ghanaian gospel singer, has made a significant impact with the release of her new song, “Wa Sore Ama Me”.

Akyereba Grace’s path has not been without challenges. Like many gospel artistes, her music is deeply rooted in personal experiences of hardship and restoration. Her story echoes the biblical principle that struggles are not just obstacles but opportunities for God to reveal His strength and grace.

When faced with setbacks, Grace found solace and encouragement in her faith, allowing her trials to shape both her character and her ministry.

Grace’s testimony mirrors the experience of many believers who have witnessed God’s intervention during their darkest hours.

Drawing from scriptural truths, she embodies the message that God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in weakness.

Just as others have shared how God empowered them to endure and overcome when all seemed lost, Grace’s journey is marked by moments where she felt uplifted and carried by divine support.

“Wa Sore Ama Me” is more than a song; it’s a declaration of hope and a reminder that no matter how deep the valley, God is able to lift His children up. Through her music, Grace extends the comfort she received from God to others, fulfilling the biblical call to use our experiences to encourage and strengthen those around us.

The release of “Wa Sore Ama Me” is poised to touch many lives across Ghana and beyond. The song offers:

– Encouragement to those feeling downcast or forgotten, reminding them that God sees and cares.

– A testimony of resilience, showing that setbacks can become setups for greater purpose.

– Spiritual upliftment, as the music creates an atmosphere of hope and faith for listeners.

– A call to rise above challenges, inspired by Grace’s own journey and the assurance that God stands with the brokenhearted.

As Akyereba Grace continues her ministry, “Wa Sore Ama Me” stands as a beacon of hope, inviting all who hear it to trust in God’s ability to restore, uplift, and transform lives.

Watch the video below:

A 16-year-old Form Two student of Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School (OKESS) has been arrested for possessing a locally manufactured firearm without lawful authority.

The arrest was made by the Tafo Pankrono Divisional Police Command following a routine dormitory inspection by school authorities on the morning of Wednesday, May 14, 2025. The search, conducted around 9:30 a.m., uncovered the weapon hidden among the student’s belongings.

School officials immediately handed the student over to the police for further investigation.

During interrogation, the student alleged that the firearm belonged to his stepfather, Mr. Daniel Owusu Baafi. Acting on the tip, police arrested Mr. Baafi on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Both the student and his stepfather have since been granted police enquiry bail. They are scheduled to report to the authorities on Monday, May 19, 2025, to assist with ongoing investigations.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday, May 18, by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Godwin Ahianyo, Head of Public Affairs for the Ashanti Regional Police Command.

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May – 19 – 2025 , 08:42

1 minute read

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has dismissed claims that he is lamenting about the country’s power and fuel supply challenges, emphasizing that his primary focus is on addressing the issues head-on.

His remarks follow criticism from energy experts and members of the public, including Walewale MP, Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, who accused him of using “fear tactics” rather than demonstrating effective leadership during an appearance on The Big Issue on May 17.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, May 19, 2025, Mr. Jinapor clarified that his recent appearance before Parliament’s Energy Committee was not an expression of frustration but an opportunity to present facts and propose actionable solutions.

“I understand grumbling very well, and I don’t think that when you appear before a committee and you present facts, they term that as grumbling. Unless, as a minister, I needed to hide that fact,” he stated.

Mr. Jinapor outlined several interventions undertaken by the ministry, including resolving a potential shutdown by Karpowership, expanding generation capacity, and initiating structural reforms to stabilize the sector.

“The facts are that Karpowership threatened to shut down, and we resolved the matter; that is not grumbling, that is solving the problem. It is sitting around the table to find the solution.

“When we took over, load shedding was around 70-80 megawatts, which was a shortfall. We have brought in a lot of plants.

“Before the committee, I gave them all the statistics, then I moved on to tell them the challenges and also the moves to solve the challenges. For instance, I told them that we have inaugurated the gas processing committee, to come out with how to build the gas processing plants so that we don’t depend on liquid fuel, that is not grumbling, we are solving the problem,” he added.

He further discussed the ministry’s medium- and long-term strategies, including reducing reliance on liquid fuel by enhancing domestic gas processing capabilities.

“ECG said they want private sector participation, we have inaugurated a committee, and they have done stakeholder consultation, and now we have to move on to implementation, that is not grumbling. It is dealing with the challenges,” he explained.

Responding to concerns about the country’s fuel stock levels, Mr. Jinapor noted that he had provided Parliament with updated data and confirmed that new fuel orders were underway.

“Parliament also wanted the statistics of all our fuel stocks, and I gave them to them. I also went further to say that we have ordered fuel, and we are getting those today, to replace what we have in stock.

“I didn’t say, we will have a challenge, I didn’t say we have a crisis. We are not in crisis, we are doing fairly well. Yes, we have challenges, but that is why we were voted into power to solve those challenges. If I am putting a solution across, that solution should be dealing with a challenge,” he concluded.

Stop scaremongering and offer solutions – Kabiru slams Jinapor