Yesterday, President John Dramani Mahama an­nounced plans to reintroduce road tolls through a digital system; and it was portrayed as a new, forward-thinking initiative aligned with Ghana’s digital transformation. While we acknowledge his recognition of the importance of digitising the economy, a process cham­pioned by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, it is essential to set the record straight.

The fact remains that the groundwork for a digital road tolling system was laid by the NPP government well before President Mahama assumed office in January this year.

In 2021, the NPP administra­tion made the bold decision to suspend manual toll collection. This move was driven by four key considerations:

1. Low revenue yield – Tra­ditional toll booths generated only about GH¢70 million an­nually, a relatively insignificant amount in the broader fiscal framework.

2. Severe congestion – Toll booths contributed to traffic bottlenecks and increased CO₂ emissions, negatively impacting the environment.

3. High vehicle operating costs – Delays at booths led to higher fuel consumption and faster wear on vehicles.

4. Revenue leakages – The manual system was fraught with inefficiencies and prone to human interference.

In response, the NPP gov­ernment, building on the solid digital infrastructure (Ghana Card and Digital Address System) it had put in place, pursued a modern, technol­ogy-driven solution. In 2024, Cabinet granted approval for the reintroduction of road tolls through a digital collection sys­tem, following a formal request by the then Minister for Roads and Highways. This policy shift was publicly confirmed in the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review by the Minister for Finance.

To ensure efficient execution and minimise bureaucratic inef­ficiencies, the Ministry adopted a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under the Pub­lic-Private Partnership Act, 2020 (Act 1039). The approach was through an unsolicited proposal, which underwent a process including:

• Initial Business Case devel­opment

• Comprehensive Feasibility Assessment

• Sector-wide evaluation and competitive procurement procedures

This rigorous process led to the selection of an indigenous Ghanaian company as the con­cessionaire. A detailed Conces­sions Agreement was prepared and submitted to the 8th Parlia­ment for approval. Regrettably, due to time constraints at the close of that parliamentary term, the agreement could not be finalised.

Rather than continuing this well-advanced process, the new administration chose to trun­cate it. The current Minister has since announced plans to reopen the process to other entities. While we respect every administration’s right to choose its procurement approach, and recognising the fact that every procurement method has its merits and limitations, we strongly object to any attempt to claim credit for an initiative that was already in motion.

Let the record reflect this clearly: the digitisation of road toll collection was conceived, structured, and set in motion by the NPP government. What is needed now is continuity—not revisionist claims or political repackaging.

Ghanaians deserve leadership that builds on progress, not one that repurposes the work of others as their own.

The writer is Member of Parliament for Bantama and former Minister of Roads and Highways

BY FRANCIS ASENSO-BOAKYE

Ahead of sentencing, Joshlin’s grandmother, Amanda Smith-Daniels, once again pleaded with her daughter to “bring my [grand]child back or tell me where she is”.

THE government has assured its international partners that it is making good progress in discussions with all remaining creditors in the debt restructur­ing perimeter.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Finance in Accra yesterday said the government remained committed to achiev­ing a fair and mutually beneficial resolution with all creditors.

The Ministry expressed ap­preciation to its partners for their forbearance, cooperation and support.

It added that in line with Gha­na’s commitments to the official creditors, under the G20 Com­mon Framework, no creditor had been treated preferentially.

“This is consistent with the principle of Comparability of Treatment”, it explained.

“We have strictly applied the provisions in the Memorandum of Understanding with our official creditors, and in particu­lar, have continued to remain in arrears with all external creditors included in the debt restructur­ing perimeter”, it said.

Africa Policy Lens (APL), a Policy Research and Analyst Organisa­tion, has commended Ghana’s recent macroeconomic progress but warned that the appreciation of the cedi could be short-lived if not supported by deeper structural reforms.

According to APL, while the cedi had appreciated significantly in the first half of 2025, this has largely been driven by temporary measures.

It mentioned heavy forex market interventions by the Bank of Ghana (nearly $1 billion between January and May 2025) and tough fiscal decisions such as freezing government spending and suspending payment of ar­rears as factors that have signifi­cantly contributed to these gains.

“These gains, while encourag­ing, are built on temporary pillars that require deeper reforms to become sustainable,” APL noted.

APL points out that Ghana has seen similar periods of sta­bility before, particularly between

Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has inaugurated a new board of the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA).

The Minister, who chairs the Board in accordance with the Free Zone Act, 1995 (Act 504), administered the oath of office and secrecy during a swearing-in ceremony held on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Madam Ofosu-Adjare noted that the Free Zones Authority Act clearly stipulates the Minister must chair the Board, stating, “in this case, myself.”

She highlighted the strategic role of the Board in advancing the Free Zones’ development and supporting the Authority’s core objective of attracting investment and stimulating national growth.

“We have pledged to make Free Zones stronger and even greater. At the end of the day, we want to have a specialised economic zone in Ghana as part of our mandate,” she said.

The Minister further emphasised the Board’s commitment to securing litigation-free land banks and fostering a business-friendly environment.

“We’ll try and get a lot of investment. We’ll try and get land banks that are litigation-free, so that our investors can invest in comfort. We’ll continue to create the enabling environment for businesses to thrive in Ghana,” she said.

Alongside the Minister, board members include Mr Albert Tetteh Nyakotey, Mr Kongwura Adamu Seidu Jinkurige, Mr Andani Dasana Yakubu, and Mr Takalikpe Wura Alhaji Adams Mahama. Other members are Dr Stella N.A. Dartey, Madam Bawa Mavis Meliga, Mr Abu Juan Jagiara, and Mr Franklin Adu Tutu Sarfo.

Established on 31 August 1995 under the Free Zone Act, 1995 (Act 504), the Ghana Free Zones Authority was created to promote economic development through the establishment of free zones.

The Ghana Free Zones Programme aims to encourage the processing and manufacturing of goods within Export Processing Zones (EPZs) and support commercial and service activities at seaports and airports.

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Deputy Commissioner of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Mr. Alexander Twum Barimah

A Deputy Commissioner of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Mr. Alexander Twum Barimah, has sharply criticized the immediate past administration led by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for what he described as years of neglect toward the commission.

Speaking on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ghana Yensom morning show, hosted by Odehyeeba Kofi Essuman and Afia Brempomaa Hinneh, Mr. Twum Barimah revealed that for nearly a decade, the commission received no logistical support from the previous government—not even a single bicycle.

“For eight years, we were abandoned. Not a single logistics item was added to our existing resources. It was as though the fight against narcotics was not a priority,” he lamented, suggesting that the past administration was complicit in undermining efforts to combat drug trafficking in the country.

In stark contrast, he lauded the current administration under President John Dramani Mahama, noting that in just three months, the commission has received three new vehicles to aid operations.

“This President has shown genuine commitment. In just a short time, our morale has been restored, and we’re now equipped to deliver on our mandate. Our staff now walk with pride,” he said.

Mr. Twum Barimah further disclosed that under the new leadership of Brigadier Mante, NACOC has already recorded 16 high-profile drug-related arrests—a sharp improvement compared to previous years.

The Deputy Commissioner announced that the commission is actively working to expand its presence by establishing district offices nationwide.

Letters have already been dispatched to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) requesting office space for newly deployed personnel.

Touching on the commission’s core responsibilities, he reminded the public that NACOC has the authority to arrest and prosecute individuals involved in the illicit drug trade. “Our focus is on the supply chain, not the end user,” he added.

He also educated listeners on the types of narcotics commonly pushed in Ghana, including cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and a growing threat known as “red,” a mixture that often includes Tramadol.

“While 50 to 100 mg of Tramadol is permitted, anything from 225 mg to 2,250 mg is illegal and extremely dangerous,” he clarified.

He issued a stern warning to drug sellers, pubs, and pharmacies flouting the law, stating that NACOC will soon embark on a nationwide clampdown.

With renewed support and clear leadership, NACOC is aiming to reassert itself in the national fight against narcotics and restore public confidence in Ghana’s law enforcement institutions, he concluded.

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May – 30 – 2025 , 06:20

2 minutes read

The government has assured mining companies in the country of stable power supply to boost productivity and contribute to sustainable economic development.

The provision of reliable and affordable power is expected to enhance the operations of mining firms and avoid interruptions to their operations due to high dependency of their machinery on power.

Mr John Abu Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transitions, gave the assurance at the opening of the 18th Edition of the West African Mining and Power Exposition Conference (WAMPEX) in Accra on Wednesday.

More than 5,000 registered delegates and 220 exhibitors from 30 countries are participating in the three-day event on the theme: “Driving sustainable investment opportunities in West Africa.”

Mr Jinapor said the mining and energy sectors were the backbone of global development and that power fluctuations in those sectors could affect production, safety and profitability.

The Minister said recent reports indicated that power generation had been stable, adding that measures were underway to ensure transmission efficiency.

In that regard, Mr Jinapor announced that he had granted approval to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to inject 200 new transformers in major capital cities in the country to enhance transmission efficiency.

“I’ve granted approval to ECG as a matter of urgency to inject about 200 new transformers in our major capital cities in order to ensure that we do not just generate power, but we are able to transmit that power and distribute that power to consumers in an effective and efficient manner”, he said

Mr Jinapor said drilling activities along Ghana’s offshore basin had begun as part of policy actions that would revitalise and ensure regulatory certainty and predictability for investors in the power and petroleum sector

“The government has embarked on a couple of policy actions grounded around to ensure that there’s regulatory certainty, predictability for investors in both the power and petroleum sector,” he added.

Mr Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, said the global energy transition and climate action had informed the need to rethink traditional mining extraction models.

He said the $1.2 billion foreign direct investment recorded in Ghana’s mining sector last year was an indication that the policies the Government had put in place had boosted investor confidence.

“With decades of commercial mining experience that has made Ghana Africa’s largest gold producer and a top 10 global supplier, we have learned that true wealth lies not just in what we take from the earth but in how we develop it,” Mr Buah said.

Mr Michael Edem Akafia, President, Ghana Chamber of Mines, said sustainability must be at the centre of mining operations and emphasised the need for long-term survival and viability of the mining sector without compromising the environment.

He urged players in the sector to develop the supply value chain by strengthening capacity to ensure effective local participation.

Mr Akafia said the Chamber fully supported the Government’s newly-created Gold Board and pledged to support its successful operationalisation.

Source: GNA

Ghana’s trade volume with Germany reached €180,923,000 in the first quarter of 2025, Mr Daniel Krull, German Ambassador to Ghana, has said. 

Total exports to Germany stood at €85,660,000, while imports amounted to €95,263,000, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 49 per cent from the same period in 2024.

In the first quarter of 2024, trade totalled €127,673,000, with exports at €63,682,000 and imports at €63,991,000, representing a 44 per cent growth from 2023.

Mr. Krull made this known during a press briefing at his residence to introduce a project titled “New Northern Dimensions – Delights from Northern Ghana and Northern Germany.”

The project is a cultural and diplomatic initiative that blends culinary creativity, cultural exchange, and outreach. It forms part of activities marking the 836th anniversary of Hamburg, a city in northern Germany.

The initiative aims to highlight the rich cultures of northern Ghana and northern Germany while strengthening ties between the two regions. 

Mr. Krull said the trade figures were encouraging, noting that over recent years, trade volumes had ranged between $500 million and $700 million. 

He explained that Ghana’s exports largely comprised cocoa, gold, tropical foods, and other raw materials, while Germany’s exports included vehicles, machinery, and spare parts. 

The Ambassador stressed the importance of sustained bilateral trade, particularly given Ghana’s preferential access to the German and broader European market—an advantage not extended to all countries. 

“We have a strong and stable market to enable Ghanaian manufacturers and agribusiness people to focus their businesses on. They must have a reliable framework of investment and planning,” he said. 

Mr. Krull added: “Germany is not only the home of car manufacturers but trade fairs, so we organised some of the specialised trade fairs for machinery, construction and mining. If you take food logistics for instance, it is the basic route for the Ghanaian investor to enter the European market.”

The 836th Hamburg anniversary celebration will be held on Thursday, May 29, at the Ambassador’s residence, with members of the Diplomatic Corps, business community, government officials, and private sector representatives expected to attend. 

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The National Road Safety Authority (NSRA) will, in the coming days, sue Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in the Greater Accra Region for the unlawful placement of billboards along roads.

This comes after the MMDAs failed to comply with the NRSA’s 21-day ultimatum directive for them to remove all unauthorised billboards and posters, particularly within road medians.

Abraham Amaliba, Acting Director-General of the NRSA, said they wanted to meet MMDAs to give them a grace period to remove all the illegal billboards in their jurisdiction after the 21-day ultimatum, but they failed to show up at a scheduled meeting on Thursday, May 29, to discuss the non-compliance with the directive

He said, due to their absence, they were going to sue them to enforce the law on unlawful billboards sited along roads in Ghana.

“Their failure to come means that they are not interested, so what we can do is to appear in court with them.”

“For now, we are proceeding on the basis that they have attended this programme, and we are going to proceed on the basis that we have met them, and so we are going to enforce the law,” he added.

Mr Amaliba said these billboards were making it difficult for motorists to see from afar.

Meanwhile, the NRSA in April gave MMDAs in the Greater Accra region a 21-day ultimatum to remove unauthorised billboards that pose a risk to motorists and pedestrians.

The Authority cited the increasing number of unregulated billboards, particularly those erected on road medians and near intersections, as an imposing safety concern.

According to the NRSA, many of these billboards obstruct drivers’ views and serve as distractions.

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Ibrahim Mahama (L) has accused Bright Simons (R) of defaming him in an article

Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has pledged to vigorously contest a GH₵10 million defamation lawsuit filed against him by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Engineers & Planners (E&P) and brother of President John Mahama, Ibrahim Mahama.

Bright Simons described the lawsuit as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), aimed at stifling scrutiny of powerful individuals and their businesses.

The lawsuit, filed at the Accra High Court on May 28, 2025, stems from an April 19 article by Simons titled “Ghana Provides a Lesson in How Not to Nationalise a Gold Mine,” published on his website and shared on his X account.

Ibrahim Mahama in his lawsuit, claims that Bright Simons’ assertions about E&P’s financial struggles, including reduced operations at Gold Fields’ Damang mine and creditors being “up in arms” over delayed payments, were false and damaging to his reputation and business.

Mahama is seeking GH₵10 in damages, a public apology, and an injunction to prevent further statements.

However, in a statement issued on May 29, 2025, Bright Simons rejected the allegations, insisting that his article was based on factual industry data, including Gold Fields’ reports on production declines at Damang.

“There is nothing in the comments complained of that can remotely be described as defamatory,” he said, dismissing the claims as baseless.

He argued that the phrase “up in arms” was a common expression for dissatisfaction, not defamatory, and vowed to subpoena creditors to testify about their demands if necessary.

He also labeled the lawsuit an attempt to intimidate analysts and activists from examining companies like E&P, particularly those linked to public resources or political figures.

“It is designed to scare away analysts and activists from even the most basic scrutiny of Mr. Ibrahim Mahama and his company,” he stated, emphasizing the need for accountability in such cases.

He added, “The fear of lawsuits has created an atmosphere of censorship in Ghana whenever the interests of powerful and wealthy companies are placed in the spotlight. I for one do not intend to honour this tradition.”

Simons affirmed his commitment to defending the case, stating, “Accountability, as I like to say, is a marathon,” and promised to prove in court that his statements were justified and in the public interest.

Read the full statement by Bright Simons below:

1. This afternoon, I saw in the media that the brother of Ghana’s President has filed a suit against me for defamation. I also got a copy of the writ online.

2. He is unhappy because:

A. I said his company has been “hit” financially as a result of a mining company’s decision to… pic.twitter.com/DxvOH7jEhB

— Bright Simons (@BBSimons) May 29, 2025

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has expressed readiness to cooperate with the government to address significant issues within the business community, following plans to establish a National Business Consultative Platform.

President John Dramani Mahama announced the initiative, which aims to foster engagement between the government and private sector players, provide feedback on policies, and identify solutions to support business development.

In an interview with Citi News, Dean of Regional Chairs of the Association of Ghana Industries, Tsonam Akpeloo said concerns about heavy taxes and difficulty securing capital should be addressed during the dialogue.

“We are talking about a lot of taxes, and we are asking the government to take away some of these taxes that are affecting the growth of the sector. We are also talking about access to capital, and the cost associated with accessing this capital.

“These are issues that the government needs to deal with because we believe that it is only when the president is on this issue that bothers, that he will be able to take the right decisions and actions.

“So for us, this needs to have a more structured approach to ensuring that we meet the government. We are happy to cooperate to set it up and ensure that it will not just be a launch but rather a meaningful, and productive engagement with the government,” he stated.

Akpeloo further urged the government to improve the capacity of local industries, to gain a competitive advantage in the production of essential products on the market, and to help lessen the rate of importation of these products into the country.

“The government needs a certain drastic measure to promote local production because there are products in Ghana that we do have competitive advantages over. There are things that we can produce not only for the Ghanaian market but also to export.

“What we require is for the government to discourage importation of these products that we have and can produce locally. That way, the government will provide the needed capacity for local industry to be able to produce 24 hours.

“Most of our production lines only produce 50% capacity. We need to make sure that we increase the production to employ people and the only way we do that is when the government discourages the importation of these products that we have local capacity to produce,” he said.

Mahama applauds GPRTU for reducing fares as economy stabilises

There were five-set thrillers, significant upsets and an emotional goodbye on day five at the French Open – but it was business as usual for Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic.

World number one Sinner was ruthlessly efficient as he brought the curtain down on Frenchman Richard Gasquet’s career and advanced to the third round.

Sixth seed Djokovic was troubled by a blister but continued his bid for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title with a straight-set victory over Corentin Moutet.

But while Sinner and Djokovic advanced, two of the top-20 players in the men’s draw were knocked out in marathon matches.

‘You hope the day never comes’ – Sinner ends Gasquet’s career

Italy’s three-time major winner Sinner extended his winning streak against players ranked outside the top 20 to 63 matches.

In doing so, he brought an end to Gasquet’s playing career, 23 years after the 38-year-old made his Roland Garros debut.

Sinner claimed a commanding 6-3 6-0 6-4 win over Gasquet, but the day was still Gasquet’s, with the Frenchman addressing the adoring crowd and accepting a commemorative trophy.

“I’ve thought a lot about this day, you hope it never comes, but today is it,” Gasquet said.

“I can’t dream of anything better than standing on this incredible court, the most beautiful court in the world.”

Djokovic overcomes blister complication

Later in the day, 38-year-old Djokovic continued his recent good form with a 6-3 6-2 7-6 (7-1) victory against France’s Moutet.

Djokovic came to Roland Garros, where he is a three-time champion, on the back of winning his 100th ATP singles title in Geneva last week and maintained his good form against Moutet, winning in just over three hours.

The only potential blip for Djokovic was needing a medical timeout for a blister on his left foot in a tight third set.

The Serb was able to carry on and, after saving a set point to force the tie-break, clinched victory.

“Things got a little bit complicated with the blister,” said Djokovic. “That was bothering me for a bit.

“But I don’t think it’s going to be an issue for me to recover.”

He will face Filip Misolic after the Austrian overcame Canadian 27th seed Denis Shapovalov in a marathon five-set match.

Meanwhile, German third seed Alexander Zverev bounced back from losing the first set to secure a 3-6 6-1 6-2 6-3 victory over Dutchman Jesper de Jong.

‘I was checking tickets home’ – five-set thrillers

Australian world number nine Alex De Minaur and Czech 19th seed Jakub Mensik both exited Roland Garros on Thursday – and both after winning the first two sets.

De Minaur lost 2-6 2-6 6-4 6-3 6-2 to 62nd-ranked Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, a talented but often temperamental payer.

Bublik said afterwards he had already accepted defeat before mounting a comeback.

“I was checking the tickets [home] already in my head. I didn’t really care, in a way. I was like I will accept the loss,” the 27-year-old said.

“It was a bit early for me. I was a bit sleepy in the first two sets. So it was key to wake up and then to play one of the best Slam matches that I ever played in my life.”

Bublik will now face Portugal’s world number 200 Henrique Rocha, who surprisingly beat Mensik.

Rocha, who came through qualifying and had never won a main-draw match at a major before this year’s French Open, triumphed 2-6 1-6 6-4 6-3 6-3 against talented 19-year-old Mensik.

Fils battles through injury to win rollercoaster

Home hope Arthur Fils came through a gruelling four-and-a-half-hour match against Spain’s Jaime Munar, despite being unable to move at one point because of a back injury.

The 20-year-old required treatment during the third set and looked down and out after the fourth set.

But after taking painkillers and roared on enthusiastically by the French supporters, the 14th seed fought back from a breakdown in the decider to complete victory.

Fils ripped off his shirt as he celebrated the 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-4) 2-6 0-6 6-4 victory and lapped up the applause from the crowd on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

“This is my best match of all time”, Fils said.

“I have had some difficult matches, but this one is the best five-set match that I have ever played. I could have lost this match.

“I was lucky. But it’s going to be one of my best five-set matches ever of my life.”

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Some NPP MP siting on the floor infront of the EOCO headoffice

Executive Director of the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), Dr Rasheed Draman has described the Minority’s walkout from Parliament over the detention of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, as lacking strategic merit in the current parliamentary landscape.

In an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Dr Draman argued that the Minority’s decision to stage a walkout and threaten to boycott parliamentary proceedings is ineffective, given the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s strong majority in the ninth Parliament.

“What’s the value of a walkout when the NDC has enough members to form a quorum and conduct government business?” he questioned.

The Minority, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, walked out of Parliament on Thursday to protest Wontumi’s detention by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

Wontumi is under investigation for allegedly causing financial loss to the state and was granted bail set at GH₵ 50 million, which he has been unable to meet, leading to a night in custody.

Following the walkout, Minority MPs, alongside NPP executives, marched to EOCO’s headquarters in Accra to demand a review of the bail conditions.

Dr Draman, however, urged the Minority to adopt a more constructive approach by staying in Parliament to hold institutions accountable.

“This is not the Eighth Parliament, where a few members could disrupt proceedings. The numbers in the Ninth Parliament don’t support such tactics,” he said.

He further cautioned that walkouts could be perceived as political posturing rather than a genuine push for justice, advising MPs to “stay in the House and demand answers” to address their concerns effectively.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem Sai has revealed that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is investigating Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), for serious criminal allegations, including fraud, causing financial loss to the State, and money laundering.

In a social media post on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Justice Srem Sai announced that Wontumi, detained by EOCO since Tuesday, May 27, 2025, is also a suspect in a separate investigation tied to a wider international organised crime network.

Ghana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a technology and innovations hub to boost Ghana’s digital transformation and position it as a leading centre for artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies. 

The initiative, dubbed the “Ghana-UAE Innovations and Technology Hub,” led by UAE’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) will serve as a strategic base for global tech giants seeking to expand their presence in the country and across the continent.

This means it will attract over 11,000 global companies under the PCFC umbrella—including tech giants such as Microsoft, Oracle, Meta, IBM, and Alphabet and will serving as a regional base for AI engineering, business process outsourcing (BPO), knowledge process outsourcing (KPO), and data generation for Africa-focused machine learning.

The initial phase of the one billion dollar project, fully funded by the PCFC, in partnership with leading AI firms behind Dubai’s AI transformation, will involve the  development of a 25 square kilometre (Km2) site in Ningo-Prampram  with the government providing the land for the initiative.

The MoU was signed in Accra on Thursday (May 29, 2025) by the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George on behalf of Ghana and the Chairman of the Dubai PCFC, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, on behalf of the Middle Eastern nation. 

It brought together heads of the various agencies under the ministry and representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and their agencies.  

Also present to witness the signing were officials of the UAE’s mission in the country. 

Mr George described the agreement as a bold ambition grounded in mutual respect and built on a shared understanding that digital transformation is no longer optional but essential. 

He said the initiative was designed to anchor the nation’s place as a continental leader in digital transformation and technological advancement, reflective of  President John Dramani Mahama’s vision to not only diversify the economy but to ensure that innovation becomes a primary engine of inclusive and sustainable development.

“This hub will create a space where investment meets ingenuity, where the creativity of Ghana’s youth is matched with opportunities to try, and where advanced technologies are developed, deployed and exported. It is about building a nation where our brightest minds no longer look outwards for opportunity, but see it in their own backyards,” he stated. 

Mr George, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram, said the initiative further underscored the importance of the government’s  One Million Coders Programme – an initiative to train a million youth in digital in-demand skills in AI, cybersecurity, data protection and data governance.  

“To Ghana’s vibrant community of tech entrepreneurs, innovators, and digital talents, this is your platform. It is your ideas, your startups, your research, and your courage that will give it life and meaning. We are creating the conditions for a digital renaissance, led by Ghanaians for Ghanaians. Our goal is not to catch up with the digital age, but to help shape it,” he added. 

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, who also serves as the Chairman and CEO of DP World stated that in today’s world, national wealth was defined not by gold or oil but by the ability to generate, implement, and scale ideas—just as Apple turned a simple concept into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise stressing the power of ideas, engineering, and innovation. 
Highlighting the global shift toward automation and AI, he explained that the role of people has evolved from manual labor to high-value design, problem-solving, and supply chain management. 

Using examples from DP World’s fully automated port in Rotterdam and its integrated logistics operations in over 70 countries, he emphasized that jobs were not being lost but transformed, with workers now managing smarter processes and customer relationships. 

With global supply chains strained and companies looking to produce goods closer to their markets, he said Ghana was poised to become a major production and distribution hub in West Africa. 

Chelsea look set to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap after triggering the £30m release clause in his contract.

Manchester United, Everton, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest were among the clubs to have shown a serious interest in Delap, who was made available for £30m when Ipswich were relegated, while Manchester City also hold a buy-back option.

The 22-year-old joined Ipswich from Manchester City in a deal worth up to £20m last summer and was this month given permission to speak to interested clubs.

“Liam’s looking at his options for next year, which I think he is entitled to do and we support him with that,” said Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna, ahead of his side’s final Premier League game.

It is understood Stamford Bridge is Delap’s first-choice destination but negotiations over personal terms continue.

Chelsea, who lifted the UEFA Conference League trophy on Wednesday night, last week qualified for the Champions League, providing Delap with the chance to add to his solitary appearance in the competition with Manchester City in 2022.

Delap made 32 starts in the Premier League for Ipswich last season, scoring 12 goals.

Ipswich, who were relegated at the end of the season after finishing 19th in the table, are interested in taking Chelsea striker Marc Guiu on loan as a replacement for Delap.

The Spanish striker scored six goals in 14 appearances for Chelsea this season but has missed most of 2025 with a muscular injury. He returned as a late substitute during the Conference League final in Wroclaw.

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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.

NPA CEO, Godwin Edudzi Tameklo

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA), led by its Chief Executive, Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, took part in the 2025 Africa Energy Technology Conference held in Accra, which focused on the continent’s natural gas potential and its role in the global energy transition.

This year’s conference, themed “Africa’s Gas Potential: Monetization and Its Role as a Transition Fuel,” brought together major players across the energy sector to explore strategies for leveraging Africa’s vast gas resources to drive sustainable development.

Mr. Tameklo joined a high-level panel of industry leaders, including Mr. David Pappoe Jr., President of the African Energy Chamber (Ghana); Mr. Appiah Keyi, Director of Commercial and New Ventures at Kosmos Energy; and Mr. Peter Stuttaford, CEO of Thompson Energy B.V.

During the panel discussion, the NPA boss underscored the importance of African-led solutions to the continent’s energy challenges, urging stakeholders to take full ownership of the gas value chain.

“Africa must take charge of its energy destiny,” Mr. Tameklo said. “Our natural gas reserves should be harnessed not only as a transition fuel but also as a driver for industrialization, job creation, and expanded energy access across the continent.”

The conference served as a platform for energy experts, policymakers, and investors to engage on critical issues surrounding energy security, investment opportunities, and the role of technology in unlocking Africa’s energy future.

National Coordinator of the CSOs Platform on SDGs, Levlyn Konadu Asiedu

In commemoration of World Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, 2025, Levlyn Konadu Asiedu, National Coordinator of the CSOs Platform on SDGs, has called on parents to take an active role in educating their children, especially girls, about menstrual hygiene and self-care.

“Teach them how to keep themselves clean and educate them about menstrual hygiene,” she emphasised, highlighting the importance of parental guidance over peer-led misinformation.

“What makes a lady a lady is when she begins menstruating, but most often, we hide this from our children. And when we hide such things from our children, their friends will teach them,” she added.

Her call came during a one-day Training Workshop and Field Visit on Menstrual Health and Hygiene organised by the CSOs Platform on SDGs in Accra on May 29, 2025.

The workshop aimed to enhance the capacity of journalists to advocate more effectively for menstrual hygiene and access to affordable sanitary products.

Archibald Adams, Communications Lead at Oxfam in Ghana, a member organisation of the CSOs Platform on SDGs, noted that the workshop was part of broader efforts to make menstrual health a mainstream conversation in Ghana.

“The purpose of the training was to equip journalists to improve their advocacy for menstrual hygiene. It is in connection with World Menstrual Hygiene Day, which is celebrated on May 28, 2025,” Adams said.

“And this year’s theme is ‘A Period-Friendly World’.”

He further commended the government for launching a Free Sanitary Pad initiative, pledging Oxfam’s full support in working alongside authorities to ensure menstrual equity.

“It is important that when it comes to menstruation, we don’t treat it as a girl’s or woman’s issue. It is supposed to be an issue that concerns everyone. We need the boys and we need the men; it is the boys that make the girls pregnant, and it is the men that make the women pregnant,” Adams stated.

President of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Dr James Condua Orleans-Lindsay

The President of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Dr James Condua Orleans-Lindsay, has called on Ghanaian businesses and citizens to demonstrate patriotism by reducing the prices of goods and services in response to the steady appreciation of the cedi.

Speaking at the inauguration of GREDA’s Executive Council Standing Committees and a stakeholders’ forum held on May 29, 2025, Dr Orleans-Lindsay underscored the need for a collective national effort to ensure economic stability.

“We will take the pain of the cedi’s appreciation as long as it is for the collective good of the country; as long as we can get stability for over five, six, or even eight years, once the cedi has appreciated, we all owe it to the country to bring prices down. You need to be a patriot; it is very important, and it is for the collective good,” he said.

He emphasised that price adjustments in the wake of a stronger cedi are not just an economic obligation but a moral one that contributes to the nation’s development and the well-being of its citizens.

The call for price reduction comes at a time when the cedi is making significant gains on the interbank market.

According to the Bank of Ghana’s latest update, the cedi is trading at GH¢10.27 (buying) and GH¢10.29 (selling) against the US dollar. The pound is at GH¢13.82 (buying) and GH¢13.83 (selling), while the euro stands at GH¢11.59 (buying) and GH¢11.60 (selling).

The newly inaugurated committees include:

• Technical and Projects Committee

• Research and Development Committee

• Finance and Audit Committee

• Membership and Welfare Committee

• Complaints, Disciplinary and Ethics Committee

• Marketing, Publicity and Events Committee

“These subcommittees are crucial in helping GREDA achieve its objectives of solidifying the association and extending our influence in Ghana’s housing and construction sector,” Dr. Orleans-Lindsay stated.