File photo of parliament in session

The Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs and the Committee on Trade, Industry, and Tourism of Parliament have recommended that Ghana ratify the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.

This move, according to the Committee, aims to promote sustainable marine resource management and curb harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity, overfishing, and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Moving the report of the Committee on the Floor of Parliament for the adoption of the House on Friday, Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw, Chairman of the Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs, said the Committee considered the Agreement a significant step in global efforts to curb harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity, overfishing, and IUU fishing, promoting sustainable marine resource management.

“Mr. Speaker, the ratification would also highlight Ghana’s commitment to global cooperation, aligning with its roles as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and as a founding member of the African Union (AU),” he said.

Dr. Jasaw noted that the implications of the ratification include enhancing measures against IUU fishing and other unsustainable fishing practices, improving data collection and reporting on fisheries indicators, increasing transparency among WTO members, and supporting global efforts to sustainably manage fisheries resources.

Other benefits he noted include fair trade practices in both domestic and international markets, contributing to job creation, poverty alleviation, national food security, and strong foreign exchange earnings.

Among the challenges and concerns enumerated in the Committee’s report were the potential impact on local fishing communities, particularly small-scale and artisanal fishers who rely on government support, such as subsidies for premix fuel, outboard motors, and fishing gear.

“There is a need for careful consideration of domestic implications and mitigating measures to protect vulnerable fishing communities,” the report said.

The Committee recommended that the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture finalise a new Fisheries Bill, which will incorporate the provisions of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.

“The Committee will closely monitor the drafting and passage of the new legislation to ensure it reflects Ghana’s international commitments and the socio-economic realities of fishing communities,” the report said.

Some Members of Parliament (MPs) who contributed to the debate on the adoption of the Committee’s report called for sustainable practices, emphasizing environmentally friendly practices, reduction of plastic waste, and promotion of local materials for fishing gear.

Mr. Habib Iddrisu, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Tolon, seconding the motion, raised concerns about potential effects on fishermen’s livelihoods, with plans to mitigate adverse effects.

Mr. Murtala Mohammed, a National Democratic Congress MP for Tamale Central and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, called for investment in infrastructure and equipment to support fishing communities, as well as improvements in working conditions and resources available to officials in these areas.

Madam Emelia Arthur, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, said the WTO agreement prohibits subsidies to vessels engaged in IUU fishing, which is relevant to Ghana’s current “yellow card” status from the European Union.

She told Parliament that the expected outcomes of the ratification would include improved sustainability, efficiency, transparency, and cooperation among WTO members, potentially boosting Ghana’s fishing industry.

“Mr. Speaker, potential outcomes will include improved industry sustainability that will enhance measures against IUU fishing and unsustainable practices, economic benefits where fair trade practices and sustainable fishing may lead to economic gains, and increased transparency for better data collection and reporting among WTO members,” she said.

An aerial view of the Cape Coast Castle

The government has made available GH₵22 million for the rehabilitation of six forts and castles across the country.

The rehabilitation works will focus on repairing cracks and tears, reroofing, and transforming portions of the existing facilities into museums and tourism sites to tell the African story.

Mr. Kwesi Essel Blankson, the Executive Director of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, who led a delegation to Fort Orange in Sekondi and subsequently paid an introductory visit to the Mayor of STMA, Mr. Fredrick Faustinus Faidoo, said, “We hope to complete rehabilitation works on Fort Orange within a year.”

The project will preserve history, serve as a heritage site, and drive domestic tourism.

“This project focuses on protecting these historically significant structures, which played a role in the gold trade and later the slave trade,” he added.

Fort Orange in Sekondi is one of the six selected out of the 28 across various regions of Ghana, including the Volta, Greater Accra, Central, and Western Regions.

The contractor and consultant are already on site to commence the project, he added, and appealed to residents to keep the beachfront clean to attract tourists.

“After all is said and done, if the city is not clean, it will be very difficult to attract tourists because no tourist would want to spend time in a dirty environment.”

Mr. Fredrick Faustinus Faidoo, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Chief Executive, assured the group of the assembly’s readiness to assist in executing the project.

Over 20 journalists were trained on illicit financial flows

The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has organised a two-day training on Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) and Progressive Taxation for about 20 journalists in the Ashanti Region.

The training, with financial support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Denmark, is part of a strategic partnership initiative for Ghana and West Africa Project.

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECO) defines IFFs as the illegal movement of money from one country to the other, mostly through corruption, tax evasion and money laundering.

Mr. Edward Cudjoe, the Ashanti Regional Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), highlighted how IFFs crippled the socio-economic development of a country, causing an increase in poverty, stunt economic growth and underfunded public services.

He mentioned the key drivers of IFFs as corruption in the public service, tax evasion and trade mispricing, environmental crime such as galamsey, money laundering and use of shell companies.

Although there are legal and institutional frameworks that regulate some economic and crime related activities, Mr Cudjoe said there were gaps in them which needed to be amended.

He noted that there were other activities which had no regulatory body such as Artisanal Mining and Virtual Assets Service Providers – allowing people to take advantage to engage in IFFs.

“The mining sector, particularly the artisanal and small-scale mining, is largely unsupervised and attractive to criminals. It contributes 31 per cent of total gold production and attracts 60 per cent of the country’s mining labour force,” he explained.

Mr. Cudjoe noted that to fight IFFs, countries must understand that people who engage in the illegal activity adopt a range of strategies, some of which are complex to bypass regulatory and legal frameworks of governments.

It is against this background that the European Union and Germany donated €70 million to the African Union as support to strengthen its capability to fight against IFFs at the international level.

Mr. Cudjoe, therefore, encouraged journalists to support the fight against IFFs by investigating and writing fact-checked stories to unearth the hidden truths about IFFs in Ghana and beyond.

Mr. Benaiah Addo, the Executive Director of the Green Tax Youth Africa, Accra, said taxation was a means to gather revenue for the development of a country.

However, when the structures are weak with no proper equipment to foster the collection and proper record keeping, people devise various means of evading tax or paying less.

Mr. Addo said every government must invest in the process of taxation to harness enough revenue and seal most if not all gaps in the tax system for the good of the country.

For generations, the people of Matse-Nkuase rose each morning with the same daily burden — walking long distances in search of water from a murky, unreliable source. Children fell ill. Mothers worried. Hope dwindled.

But that story changed when a small act of compassion from across the ocean turned into a lifeline for an entire community.

The dusty path to waterlessness was finally broken last week when Volunteers for International Medical Aid (VIMA) commissioned a fully mechanised submersible borehole water system in the village — a project made possible through the generous support of partners in California, USA.

Amid drumming, dancing, and tears of gratitude, villagers gathered to witness what many called a “miracle in their lifetime.”

“This is more than just water. This is health. This is dignity. This is hope,” said Francis Agbemafle, Founder and Executive Director of VIMA. “For years we’ve worked in villages like this because we believe that no child should go to bed thirsty and no mother should fear that the water her child drinks might be the reason he doesn’t wake up tomorrow.”

Mr. Agbemafle dedicated the project to the hard-working women of Matse-Nkuase, drawing from the memory of his own late mother, a woman who raised him through hardship and taught him the value of resilience.

He urged women in the community to continue building strong families even amid daily struggles.

A Community Transformed

Before the arrival of the borehole, Matse-Nkuase had no access to safe drinking water. Residents relied on a muddy, open water source, contaminated and dangerous. Illnesses were common, especially among children.

“Three years ago, when we visited this community, we saw a level of deprivation that broke our hearts,” recounted Mr. Christopher Webu, VIMA’s Country Projects Manager. “There was no clean water. No toilet. Children went barefoot to school. We had to do something.”

The story reached Dr. Steve and Susie Portz in Las Vegas, USA, longtime VIMA supporters. Touched by the dire situation, they worked with their son CJ Portz, a previous donor, to redirect part of his $10,000 contribution towards building a water system.

Alongside family members Andrea and Noelle Portz, the funds brought the project to life.

Today, the water system stands tall, equipped with a submersible pump, an overhead poly tank, and complete electrical wiring, mounted on a 5-foot concrete platform, serving hundreds of villagers with clean water daily.

The Spirit of Giving Spreads

The ripple effect of goodwill didn’t stop there. Present at the ceremony was a visiting volunteer group from the United States, including Brian Asher and Zarah Rezapour, who were deeply moved by the living conditions in the village.

In an impromptu but powerful pledge, they promised to fund the construction of an 8-unit toilet facility for the community, a long overdue need.

As part of their visit, the group also funded a $6,000 propane tank project for the VIMA home kitchen, boosting efficiency and hygiene for the charity’s base of operations.

Voices of Gratitude

The village chief, Togbey Setorwu Kofi Amponsah, emotionally thanked VIMA and its partners for their continued investment in the community.

“This is not just help, it is salvation. Our people now live with less fear, more health, and more dignity.”

Mr. Jude Agboyo, headmaster of the local primary school, added his voice of appreciation, noting that VIMA’s previous donations of clothing and school supplies had already made a visible impact, and now, access to clean water would further transform the academic environment.

Hope That Flows

As the first gush of clean water streamed from the tap, children clapped and elders wept. For a community that had long lived on the fringes — seen, perhaps, as too small to matter — the borehole stands not only as a source of clean water but as a symbol of visibility, value, and a future reclaimed.

In a world where millions still lack access to safe drinking water, VIMA’s work at Matse-Nkuase is a reminder that compassion knows no boundaries, and transformation often begins with one bold, intentional act of giving.

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.

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.

Gifty Okyere (right) died in the room of her boyfriend Edmond Ayomah

An autopsy has confirmed that Gifty Okyere, a 28-year-old final-year nursing student at Sunyani Nursing and Midwifery Training College, died of an acute asthma attack in her boyfriend’s room, ruling out foul play.

According to a report by kessbenonline.com, preliminary accounts indicate that Okyere began experiencing breathing difficulties while in the room of her boyfriend, Edmond Ayomah, on May 27, 2025.

Despite efforts to assist her, she lost consciousness before emergency help could arrive.

Ayomah subsequently turned himself in to the local police, cooperating fully with authorities during the investigation.

The Ghana Police Service in Jinjini confirmed that a full autopsy conducted by the regional pathologist explicitly stated that Okyere died due to an acute asthma attack, with no signs of physical trauma or poisoning.

Edmond Ayomah, who had been under investigation, remains uncharged and has reportedly returned to his family as the official investigations draw to a close.

The confirmation of a natural cause of death has alleviated concerns of foul play, though the tragedy continues to resonate with many in Jinjini and beyond.

Gifty Okyere, described as a promising young woman, is set to be laid to rest, with the community mourning the loss of a life cut short.

This case has been closely followed since initial reports emerged, with speculations indicating foul play due to the circumstances of Gifty’s death.

Earlier reports had suggested that Gifty died from complications while attempting to commit abortion in the room of her boyfriend.

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has put telecom operators on notice: deliver better service or pay the price.

Speaking at a high-level meeting with the CEOs and technical teams of MTN, Telecel, and AT on Friday, May 30, Mr. George warned that operators who fail to improve network performance by the end of the year will face regulatory sanctions.

“We are not dealing in sentiments; we are dealing in engineering,” he said. “If you have infrastructure in place but your service is poor, we must begin to take regulatory action.”

The warning follows a National Communications Authority (NCA) report on 48 localities across Ghana, which highlighted widespread inconsistencies in service quality.

Even in economically significant areas like East Legon and Amasaman, users experience call drops, poor data speeds, and network blackouts.

By June 30, telcos must accept the newly allocated spectrum—resources the minister insists should result in visible improvements before December.

Fines, if imposed, will not stay with regulators; 40 percent will go back to customers as compensation, either through bonus data or call time.

“We know you can’t complete upgrades in three months, but we must see that the process has begun,” Mr. George stressed. “The Ghanaian people must feel the impact of the spectrum rollout by the end of this year.”

In response, MTN Ghana revealed plans to invest $230 million this year, with an internal GH¢25 million budget set aside to recruit frontline staff and expand service centers.

Telecel, for its part, is ramping up shop expansion and continuing network optimization. AT’s CEO promised visible improvements by the first quarter of next year, urging the public to judge the changes for themselves.

Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is set to inaugurate a state-of-the-art office in Bole, located in the Savannah Region.

The Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Mr. Julius Neequaye, made the announcement, describing the move as part of the Authority’s commitment to decentralising its services and bringing them closer to the people.

The official opening of the new facility will be supervised by President John Dramani Mahama, with support from the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe.

Bole, the hometown of President Mahama, is expected to benefit greatly from the establishment of the new DVLA office, which will ease access to licensing and vehicle registration services for residents in the area and surrounding communities.

Mr. Neequaye noted that the new office forms part of broader efforts to enhance service delivery and improve road safety through efficient and accessible operations nationwide.

Legon Cities football team

Legon Cities will welcome Hearts of Oak to the University of Ghana Stadium on Sunday in a Matchweek 33 fixture of the Ghana Premier League. The hosts are already relegated but will play for pride, while Hearts of Oak are looking to finish the season on a strong note with a top-four spot still within reach.

This encounter marks the penultimate game of the campaign for both sides. Despite their current form, Legon Cities hold a slightly better recent head-to-head record against Hearts of Oak, winning two and drawing three of their last six meetings. The Phobians’ only win in that span came in January this year, a 1-0 triumph in Accra.

Legon Cities have endured a tough season, recording just seven wins, four draws, and 21 losses in 32 matches. They have scored 22 goals and conceded 47, averaging 0.69 goals scored and 1.47 conceded per match. Their recent form has been poor, with five consecutive defeats heading into this weekend.

Hearts of Oak, on the other hand, have found form in the final stretch, winning their last two matches against Accra Lions and Berekum Chelsea. The Phobians have won 14, drawn 10, and lost eight games this season, with a solid defensive record of just 18 goals conceded.

Currently fifth on the table with 52 points, Hearts of Oak will be pushing for maximum points to seal a strong finish, while Legon Cities, 17th with 25 points, will aim to bow out of the top flight with some dignity.

Die-hard fans of Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak will confidently tell you no club in their respec­tive regions, namely Ashanti and Greater Accra, can outshine the two veteran traditional clubs that boast of the largest support base in the country.

Mind you, they have a history to back their claim. The fact is no matter the frequent oscillating, fortunes of Kotoko and Hearts, the two clubs can quickly manage to bounce back and put to shame the pretenders who attempt to den­igrate their superiority.

In the Greater Accra Region for instance, Hearts of Oak have so dominated the scene you would think teams like Standfast and Argonauts never existed.

Great Olympics have been the long time credible challengers of Hearts but despite all their show­boating that earned them the title of Wonder club, they continue to play second best to Hearts.

No wonder the wonder club have tasted relegation from the top division several times. When factory clubs sprang up in the 70s, Dumas Boys of Ghana Textile Printing (GTP) made bold attempts to outshine the Phobians but failed.

Subsequently, mushroom teams like Boye Sowah’s Lions turned Zebi, State Traders, Afienya Unit­ed, Prampram Mighty Royals, Ko­tobabi Powerlines, Ghapoha, Stay Cool and Tema Youth emerged, but only to add to the numbers.

The most outstanding discovery was Liberty Professionals in 2008. They attracted tremendous media attention and earned the accolade “Scientific soccer lads.” Coach Jones Attuquayefio was directing affairs on the pitch.

Formed in 1996 by former top division footballer, Sly Tetteh, Liberty Professionals produced top class footballers like Asamoah Gyan, Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari and Kwadwo Asamoah.

Unfortunately, the club could not maintain their ability to pro­duce many more leading stars and faced relegation in the 2020-21 sea­son. The reputed scientific soccer lads lost their Premier division sta­tus alongside Cape Coast Dwarfs and Inter Allies of Accra.

The death of Sly Tetteh, the founder, might has affected the running of the club and not much is heard of them at the moment. It is still Accra Hearts of Oak that is the dominant club in Greater Accra.

Turning to the Ashanti Region, however, you find Asante Kotoko facing a stiff challenge from newly formed, Nations FC, owned by former Kotoko chairman, Dr Kwame Kyei.

Nations FC are on the verge of winning this year’s Premier League.

With only two matches to go, Nations FC are five points ahead of Kotoko, who is in fourth po­sition. It’s almost a done deal for Nations but ardent Kotoko fans who rely on history are convinced Nations FC can never eclipse the fabulous club of Africa.

Let’s wait and see whether Dr Kyei’s Nations FC can eclipse the Porcupine Warriors famously de­scribed by Ohene Djan, the sports administrator guru as the “Porcu­pine Warriors whose popularity the sun never sets.”

Let’s delve into history a bit. In 1954, that is 71 years ago, a big split in Asante Kotoko was engineered by the legendary C.K Gyamfi who was then captain of the club.

He had been found guilty of arranging an unauthorised Easter celebration friendly match against Hearts of Oak at Abetifi Kwahu in the name of the club and subse­quently suspended.

He, however, called the bluff of management and boldly formed a rival club, Great Ashanti, compris­ing a number of Kotoko players and other clubs.

The new club became Kotoko’s great rivals in the national league. Not for long anyway. The snag is the club’s founder C.K Gyamfi himself left Kumasi to join Accra Hearts of Oak.

The club he left behind led by playmaker, Nana Kofi, played good football but they could not surpass the popularity of Asante Kotoko and ultimately folded up.

It’s a long story but the short of it is that Kotoko fans believe the spirit of the Porcupine Warriors is so strong to an extent that no team in the region can upstage them, es­pecially when the challenge is from a Kotoko insider. In other words a Kotoko executive.

Hear them, “Charles Gyimah (formerly of the Yaw Bawuah administration) formed Kumapem FC based at Asante Mampong; see what happened. Where are they now?”

Georgido (former chairman) went to All Blacks and fiercely challenged Kotoko both home and away. What’s the fate of All Blacks now? Even Goldfields, with all the Obuasi gold at their disposal were booted out of the Premier League by the GFA under very mysterious circumstances.

Well, I am not all that super­stitious even though I won’t walk under a ladder, I guess Kotoko’s unassailable supremacy could have some spiritual backing.

The die-hard supporters greet by shouting, “Fabulous” and the response is “still the best.”

The football world creates a fascinating world indeed.

Just look at how Liverpool cel­ebrated their 20th Premier League triumph. Lovely.

Don’t mind that reckless driver who decided to spoil the fun by colliding with the teeming fans on parade. He definitely has no sense of humour.

Cheers everybody and keep loving sports.

 BY KEN BEDIAKO

Abdul-Rasheed Saminu has set a new Ghana national record in the men’s 100m, clocking an impressive 9.86 seconds to win at the NCAA East Preliminary Round on Friday.

The blistering performance not only secures his spot at the World Athletics Championships in September but also ties for the second fastest time in NCAA history and only 0.04s off the NCAA record held by Christian Coleman (9.82s).

A student at the University of South Florida (USF), Saminu shaved 0.04 seconds off the previous national record of 9.90 seconds, set by Benjamin Azamati in 2022. His time is also a new personal best and currently stands as the fastest recorded 100m time in the world this year.

This latest achievement continues a remarkable rise for the 27-year-old sprinter, who ran a wind-assisted 9.87 seconds just last month.

Saminu was named USF’s Male Athlete of the Year for 2024, recognized for his outstanding individual performances, including a 100m semifinal appearance at the Paris Olympic Games.

Since joining the USF track team, he has broken multiple indoor and outdoor records and was recently honored as a First Team All-American in the 60m dash during this year’s indoor season.

After missing out on the World Relays earlier this month in China, Saminu is expected to play a key role for Ghana as they aim for their first-ever track medal at the World Championships in Tokyo later this year.

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.

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.

High output has been driven by strong production from artisanal mining and the introduction of new large-scale operations, counteracting a decline at the country’s aging mines.

The 2025 forecast published in the chamber’s annual report follows Ghana’s stronger-than-expected performance in 2024, when total gold output surged 19.3%, cementing its position as Africa’s top gold producer, ahead of South Africa and Mali.

President Donald Trump’s administration can temporarily revoke the legal status of over 500,000 migrants living in the US, the US Supreme Court ruled on Friday.

The ruling put on hold a previous federal judge’s order stopping the administration from ending the “parole” immigration programme, established by former President Joe Biden. The programme protected immigrants fleeing economic and political turmoil in their home countries.

The new order puts roughly 530,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela at risk of being deported.

Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson and Sonia Sotomayor, two of the court’s three liberal justices, dissented.

The parole programme allows immigrants temporary status to work and live in the US for two years because of “urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit”, according to the US government.

The Trump administration had filed an emergency appeal to the Supreme Court after a federal judge in Massachusetts blocked the administration from ending the programme, also known as CHNV humanitarian parole.

The White House “celebrated” the opportunity to deport 500,000 “invaders”, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller told CNN. “The Supreme Court justly stepped in”.

In her dissent, Justice Jackson wrote that the court’s order would “have the lives of half a million migrants unravel all around us before the courts decide their legal claims”.

On the day he took office, Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security to get rid of parole programmes. Then, in March, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the end of CHNV humanitarian parole.

Several immigrants rights groups and migrants from the programme sued the Trump administration over the decision, arguing they could “face serious risks of danger, persecution and even death” if deported back to their home countries.

The ruling comes after the Supreme Court earlier this month allowed Trump officials to revoke Temporary Protected Status (TPS) – a separate programme – for some 350,000 Venezuelan immigrants living and working in the US.

Humanitarian parole programmes have been used for decades to allow immigrants fleeing war and other tumultuous conditions in their home countries to come to the US, including Cubans in the 1960s following the revolution.

The Biden administration also established a parole programme in 2022 for Ukrainians fleeing after Russia’s invasion.

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.

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.

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is currently being denied access to his family while in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), his lawyer has confirmed.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse today, Wontumi’s lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi stated, “That is true,” when asked about accusations from the NPP Ashanti Regional Chapter that EOCO was preventing his family from seeing him.

Mr Appiah-Kubi explained that, even as his legal representative, he must “apply for the application to be approved” and “be led by an official” to gain access to his client.

He added that Wontumi’s phones have been confiscated, making it impossible for him to communicate with anyone independently.

The lawyer views this restriction as a “violation” of his client’s rights.

His legal team indicated that they would consider seeking further redress for the denial of family access at an “appropriate time”, with their immediate focus on securing his release.

Chairman Wontumi is receiving medical attention at a clinic while in EOCO’s custody, and his lawyer confirmed he “has been unwell and is still unwell.”

However, the lawyer denied knowledge of any hunger strike, stating he had dinner with Wontumi just two days prior.

READ ALSO: Wontumi files motion to review his bail conditions

The legal team has met the GHS 50 million bail conditions imposed by EOCO, which require two justified sureties, but they have to wait until Monday to ascertain the fate of the outspoken regional chairman, as EOCO has filed another suit in court.

Wontumi’s legal representatives have already filed an application in court seeking a variation of the bail conditions, which they describe as “most difficult and worse and most unfair”.

The lawyer highlighted that while EOCO has the mandate to arrest, the “mode” of Wontumi’s apprehension, being “accosted in the middle of the road and arrested” without prior direct invitation, is a primary concern.

Chairman Wontumi was initially invited by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for allegedly mining without a license and polluting a river in the Western Region.

He has denied all these allegations. His current detention by EOCO focuses on separate allegations of “causing financial loss to the state”.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Wontumi is reportedly “not too happy with the situation” but has expressed his willingness to cooperate with any legitimate invitations from security agencies.

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.

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By Edward Dankwah

Accra, May 30, GNA – Ghana has demonstrated strong leadership and strategic progress in localising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as shared during a high-level side event on Multi-Level Governance for SDG Localisation.

The event, which was held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Nairobi, formed part of the resumed second session of the United Nations Habitat Assembly, convened by UN-Habitat.

Madam Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, representing Ghana, outlined Ghana’s practical approach and policy infrastructure for localising the SDGs through coordinated national and sub-national governance systems.

She said the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) was Ghana’s apex planning institution responsible for developing national policy frameworks, issuing guidelines to sectors and local authorities, and producing annual progress reports that incorporated SDG indicators.

Madam Sowah said the Ministry, working in close partnership with the Ministry of Finance, facilitated the development of planning and budget guidelines that aligned local development efforts with global goals.

“Ghana’s SDGs Advisory Unit, located at the Office of the President, also plays a pivotal role in coordinating SDG implementation across government agencies and with development partners,” she added.

She noted that Ghana’s national policies, including the National Urban Policy and the National Slum Upgrading and Prevention Strategy were deliberately designed to align, adapt, and adopt the SDGs into the country’s development priorities.

The Deputy Minister referenced the Ghana Smart SDG Cities Programme, a flagship initiative supported by UN-Habitat, which sought to integrate the SDGs into city development using data-driven planning, spatial development frameworks, and community-led approaches.

Ten selected Metropolitan and Municipal Assemblies are currently at varying stages of implementation, especially in spatial planning and investment identification.

“Assemblies such as the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, Ga West Municipal Assembly, and Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly have already embarked on Voluntary Local Reviews, making Ghana one of the few countries in Africa advancing local-level SDG reporting,” she added.

The deputy minister acknowledged the critical oversight role of the Regional Coordinating Councils in monitoring and evaluating the performance of local authorities under Ghana’s decentralised governance framework.

She said key institutions including the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation, the Institute of Local Government Studies, and the Office of the Head of the Local Government Service, were all tasked with policy coherence, technical capacity-building, and administrative oversight.

She emphasised that Ghana was scaling up efforts to deepen its partnerships with UN-Habitat and other development actors to implement the New Urban Agenda.

Madam Sowah expressed the country’s full support for the adoption of the upcoming UN-Habitat Strategic Plan (2026–2029) and the International Guidelines on People-Centred Smart Cities.

She cited the Participatory Slum Upgrading Programme (PSUP), implemented in areas like Ga Mashie, as an example of how targeted urban interventions could produce tangible benefits for the urban poor.

“Ghana remains committed to translating global commitments into meaningful local action. Through bold policies, inclusive planning, and strong partnerships, we are shaping cities that work for everyone, especially the most vulnerable,” she stressed.

GNA

Linda Asante Agyei

By Laudia Sawer   

Tema, May 30, GNA — A man believed to be in his mid-50s was on Friday beheaded by a man suspected to be mentally challenged at the Tema Main Harbour Railways vicinity. 

Ali, the suspected murderer, whom the Ghana News Agency gathered is in his 30s, severed the head of the victim, a caretaker of a yard in the area, and went around carrying the head in a carrier bag.   

He was subsequently apprehended and led police personnel from the Tema Regional Police Command to where the body was lying.  

The body was later conveyed to the mortuary.  

Circumstances leading to the incident are not readily known; however, squatters in the area have expressed shock at the incident.   

Mr Isaac Adjei, a resident, said Ali used to be among the guys who carried cargo for trucks around the harbour, adding that for the past two and a half years, he started acting insane.   

GNA  

Edited by Benjamin Mensah 

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz was forced to fight for his place in the French Open fourth round with a testing victory over a dogged Damir Dzumhur.

The second seed had looked to be making light work of his opponent with a two-set lead, before a revival from the Bosnian pushed their encounter into a fourth set under the lights on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Spaniard Alcaraz, seeking to becoming the first man since compatriot Rafael Nadal in 2020 to retain the Roland Garros title, eventually ground out a 6-1 6-3 4-6 6-4 success.

“I didn’t enjoy it too much,” said the 22-year-old. “I suffered quite a lot but I’m happy to have played a good match with Damir.

“That’s why it’s difficult to win Grand Slams because you have to maintain your focus over three or four hours.

“The first two sets were under control and then he decided to play deeper and more aggressive. My energy went down and it was hard to push, but I had to give everything I had inside. I’m proud to get the win in the end.”

Alcaraz will face 13th seed Ben Shelton next after the American beat Italy’s Matteo Gigante 6-3 6-3 6-4 earlier on Friday.

Alcaraz’s form during his second-round win over Fabian Marozsan had been patchy and Friday’s first meeting at ATP Tour level against Dzumhur looked set to be a much smoother affair.

Having shrugged off two early break points, he reeled off five successive games to wrap up the opening set inside 30 minutes, with his opponent looking exasperated at times as he struggled to contain the man seen as the one to beat on the Paris clay this year.

The second set followed in much the same fashion, and while Dzumhur, 33, did have his chances with break points in the second and sixth games, he lacked the weapons to cause Alcaraz any concern.

A double fault sealed the two-set lead for the Spaniard, but then the errors started to creep into his own game in the third as Dzumhur found another gear on the other side of the net.

After a brief pause to receive treatment on a knee injury, the Bosnian – seeking to reach the fourth round of a Slam for the first time – finally got the break he had been fighting for.

Alcaraz wasted three immediate chances to break back at 4-3 down, and a further two as his opponent served out the set.

Dzumhur’s resurgence continued into the fourth as he broke the frustrated Spaniard at the first time of asking, and Alcaraz was forced to watch more break points of his own come and go unconverted.

But Dzumhur was only ever going to hold him off temporarily.

Alcaraz, starting to show glimpses of the clinical form on show in the opening two sets, won four successive games, and while he was broken back when serving for the match, he again broke Dzumhur to close the tie as the clock neared midnight in the French capital.

Rune to face Musetti next but injured Fils withdraws

Danish 10th seed Holger Rune also reached the fourth round by beating France’s Quentin Halys in five sets.

Rune, who stunned Alcaraz in the final to win the Barcelona Open last month, had to come from two-sets-to-one down in a 4-6 6-2 5-7 7-5 6-2 victory.

Rune will next face Italian eighth seed Lorenzo Musetti, who beat Argentine Mariano Navone in four sets.

Elsewhere, 12th seed Tommy Paul won his second five-set match in a row to set up a fourth-round tie with Australian 25th seed Alexei Popyrin.

The American, 28, ousted Russian 24th seed Karen Khachanov 3-6 6-3 7-6 (9-7) 3-6 6-3, while Popyrin recorded a 6-4 7-6 (13-11) 7-6 (7-5) win over Portugal’s Nuno Borges.

American 15th seed Frances Tiafoe beat compatriot and 23rd seed Sebastian Korda 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 6-4 and will face unseeded German Daniel Altmaier next.

Altmaier reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time by defeating Serbia’s Hamad Medjedovic 4-6 6-3 6-3 6-2.

French 14th seed Arthur Fils, who overcame injury to beat Jaume Munar on Thursday, has pulled out of Saturday’s third-round tie with Russian 17th seed Andrey Rublev.

Rublev will face Italian top seed Jannik Sinner or Czech Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round, with the pair due to meet on Saturday.

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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.

play videoDr Mahamudu Bawumia and Bernard Antwi Boasiako

The 2024 Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has expressed disappointment after efforts to meet the bail conditions of GH¢50 million for the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, proved unsuccessful. Wontumi is currently in custody at the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) in connection with an ongoing criminal investigation.

Addressing the press on Friday, May 30, 2025, Dr Bawumia revealed that arrangements to visit Chairman Wontumi had failed.

“We had made arrangements to come and see our Chairman Wontumi, who was arrested and has been held in custody by EOCO. We wanted to check on him and see how he was doing. All necessary preparations were made,” he stated.

Dr Bawumia also criticised the bail conditions imposed on Wontumi.

“I must put on record that the bail conditions set for Chairman Wontumi, GH¢50 million, are very onerous. I don’t know how many people in Ghana own property worth that amount. It appears designed to delay his release,” he remarked.

He further expressed dissatisfaction over being denied access to Wontumi despite prior notice.

“We are very disappointed in our inability to see him, especially after making the necessary arrangements. We’ve communicated our disappointment and will continue efforts to ensure we get to see him,” he added.

The former Vice President also appealed for calm among party supporters.

“I want to plead with all of you to remain calm as we work behind the scenes to ensure his release. I believe we will succeed, but we must remain peaceful and not take the law into our own hands. It’s important that we follow due process and ensure Chairman Wontumi is released safe and sound,” he urged.

Chairman Wontumi was taken into custody by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) after undergoing interrogation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

He is currently under investigation for alleged involvement in multiple criminal offences, including fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering.

Deputy Attorney General, Justice Srem-Sai, has disclosed that a second phase of the investigation reportedly links Wontumi to a broader international organised crime syndicate.

Although EOCO granted him bail of GH¢50 million, his legal team has yet to meet the conditions required for his release.

JKB/MA

Meanwhile, here’s why Bright Simons has vowed to fight Ibrahim Mahama’s GH¢10 million defamation lawsuit

By Elsie Appiah-Osei 

Accra, May 30, GNA- The Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs and the Committee on Trade, Industry, and Tourism of Parliament has recommended that Ghana ratifies the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.  

This move, according to the Committee, aims to promote sustainable marine resource management and curb harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity, overfishing, and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. 

Moving the report of the Committee on the Floor of Parliament for the adoption  of the House on Friday, Dr Godfred Seidu Jasaw, Chairman of the Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs, said the Committee considered the Agreement a significant step in global efforts to curb harmful fisheries subsidies that contributed to overcapacity, overfishing, and IUU fishing, promoting sustainable marine resource management. 

“Mr Speaker, the ratification would also highlight Ghana’s commitment to global cooperation, aligning with its roles as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and as a founding member of the African Union (AU),” he said. 

Dr Jasaw, noted that the implications of the ratification included enhancing measures against IUU fishing and other unsustainable fishing practices; improving data collection and reporting on fisheries indicators; increase transparency among WTO members and supporting global efforts to sustainably manage fisheries resources. 

The others he noted were the benefit from fair trade practices in both domestic and international markets; contributing to job creation, poverty alleviation, national food security, and good foreign exchange earnings 

Among the challenges and concerns the Committee’s report enumerated were potential impact on local fishing communities, particularly small-scale and artisanal fishers who relied on government support such as subsidies on premix fuel, outboard motors, and fishing gear. 

“There is the need for careful consideration of domestic implications and mitigating measures to protect vulnerable fishing communities,” the report said.  

The Committee recommended that the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture finalised a new Fisheries Bill, which will incorporate the provisions of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. 

“The Committee will closely monitor the drafting and passage of the new legislation to ensure it reflects Ghana’s international commitments and socio-economic realities of fishing communities,” the report said. 

Some Members of Parliament (MPs) who contributed to the debate on the adoption of the Committee’s report called for sustainable practices with an emphasis on environmentally friendly practices, reduction of plastic waste, and promotion of local materials for fishing gear. 

Mr Habib Iddrisu, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Tolon, seconding the Motion raised concerns about potential effects on fishermen’s livelihoods, with plans to mitigate adverse effects. 

Mr Murtala Mohammed, a National Democratic Congress MP for Tamale Central, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, called for investing in infrastructure and equipment to support fishing communities as well as the improvement of working conditions and resources available to officials in these areas. 

Madam Emelia Arthur, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, said the WTO agreement prohibited subsidies to vessels engaged in IUU fishing, relevant to Ghana’s current “yellow card” status from the European Union. 

She told Parliament that the expected outcomes of the ratification would include improved sustainability, efficiency, transparency, and cooperation among WTO members, potentially boosting Ghana’s fishing industry. 

“Mr Speaker, potential outcomes will improved Industry Sustainability that will enhance measures against IUU fishing and unsustainable practices economic benefits where fair trade practices and sustainable fishing may lead to economic gains and increased Transparency for better data collection and reporting among WTO members,” she said. 

GNA 

Edited by Benjamin Mensah 

By Patience Tawiah 

Nkwanta, Politics (O/R), May 30, GNA- Mr Joseph Awal Antwi, the Municipal Chief Executive of Nkwanta South in the Oti Region has initiated a partnership with BH Fertagro Ghana Ltd, a leading agricultural inputs and machinery company, to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in the Municipality.

The collaboration aimed to improve the livelihoods of the local farmers through comprehensive support and innovative farming practices.  

Mr Awal highlighted that the partnership will provide farmers with access to high-quality seeds, innovative farming tools, and expert guidance tailored to their unique challenges and needs.  

The leaders also discussed techniques such as crop rotation, integrated pest management, and sustainable irrigation methods to improve yield and soil health. 

They also identified high-potential crops suitable for cultivation in the area’s diverse climatic conditions.  

BH- Fertagro Ghana Ltd committed to donating fertilizers to cereal and tuber farmers, ensuring optimal growth and food security.  

“This partnership is expected to empower farmers, especially the youth, to increase production, feed more, and earn more. By providing education and resource availability, the initiative aimed to foster economic development within the municipality and enhance food security, ” said the MCE. 

GNA  

Edited by Maxwell Awumah/George-Ramsey Benamba

By Benjamin Akoto
 
Sunyani, (Bono), May 30, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama on Friday said rebuilding the nation requires national unity, determination and discipline. 
 
He said the task ahead remained herculean but added however that with discipline and commitment, the nation’s progressive and sustainable development could be achieved. 
 
Addressing a durbar of chiefs and people of the Bono Region at the Sunyani Jubilee Park, as part of his “Thank You Tour” to the region, President Mahama said the 2025 budget outlined practicable measures and interventions to restore macroeconomic stability, support small businesses, and drive job creation. 
 
He said: “The work ahead is immense, but with unity, determination, and discipline, we will rebuild our beloved country. 

President gave assurance that the Bono Region would be well positioned and would play a central role in his “Resetting” agenda. 
 
“Through job creation, infrastructure investment, agricultural transformation, and rural development, we shall reset our nation,” the President stated. 
 
He called on Ghanaians to rise above partisanship and divisive tendencies, urging a collective effort toward building a better country for all. 
 
President Mahama described his “Thank You Tour” as “more than a gesture of appreciation” saying it represented a renewed commitment and confidence between himself and the people. 
 
“It is a reaffirmation of the trust you have placed in me, and of our shared determination to build a nation worthy of our children and future generations,” the President stated. 
 
President Mahama said the “reset” of Ghana was rooted in restoring national dignity, expanding opportunities, and reviving a shared sense of purpose, saying, “I am happy to say that the programme of resetting Ghana has begun to take shape.” 
GNA  
Edited by Dennis Peprah/Benjamin Mensah 

Ghana’s education sector is set for a major transformation following the signing of a groundbreaking partnership agreement by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, that brings in US$80 million in new funding to improve foundational learning and school quality across the country.

The agreement, formalised at a high-level ceremony at the Embassy of Switzerland in Accra on 28 May, brings together the System Change Architecture for Learning Excellence (SCALE) consortium—comprising three major philanthropic organisations, 10 cocoa and chocolate industry leaders, and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE).

With US$40 million raised by SCALE and an equal match from GPE’s Multiplier Fund, the total financing package now stands at US$80 million, aimed at driving improvements in literacy, numeracy, teacher training, and emotional and social wellbeing in schools nationwide. Combined with an additional US$38.8 million in supplementary grants, the new investment raises the total extra funding for the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP) to US$118.8 million.

“This is an opportunity for us—a shared vision and innovative financing for education that comes at a crucial time,” Minister Iddrisu stated during the event. “SCALE is an extension of the successes we’ve already achieved through GALOP, and Ghana has every reason to celebrate.”

Driving Systemic Change

SCALE is designed to overhaul how education is delivered and measured in Ghana, prioritising child-centered learning and evidence-based interventions. The new funding will support an expansion of GALOP’s reach from 10,000 to 16,000 schools, with over 14,700 kindergartens also set to benefit. The initiative will also launch the Ghana Education Evidence and Data Lab (GEEDLab) within the Ministry of Education, to improve decision-making and policy design.

Importantly, the funding targets cocoa-growing regions, where child labor remains a concern. Research from the International Cocoa Initiative (ICI) shows that quality education can significantly reduce child labor rates. SCALE’s Communities of Excellence programme will empower local districts to take an active role in shaping educational outcomes.

A Global Collaboration

The SCALE consortium includes philanthropic leaders such as the Jacobs Foundation, Fondation Botnar, and the UBS Optimus Foundation, alongside major industry partners including Nestlé, Mars, Ferrero, and Mondelez. The initiative builds on successful models like Côte d’Ivoire’s Child Learning and Education Facility (CLEF).

“SCALE offers not just funding, but access to a wide pool of expertise to transform how we apply evidence in education,” said Simon Sommer, Co-CEO of the Jacobs Foundation. “We expect more than 2 million children in over 100 cocoa districts to benefit.”

UBS Optimus Foundation CEO Tom Hall added, “This is a model of how collaborative giving can deliver impact at scale, by aligning the strengths of all partners.”

Andrea Studer, CEO of Fondation Botnar, emphasized the importance of holistic development: “Education must go beyond academics. It must foster empathy, resilience, and critical thinking—values that SCALE is championing.”

A Timely Investment

At a time when international aid to education is shrinking, Ghana’s innovative financing model stands out. With a global education funding gap estimated at US$100 billion, the SCALE initiative demonstrates how public-private partnerships can fill critical gaps and deliver long-term impact.

About SCALE:
SCALE (System Change Architecture for Learning Excellence) is a multistakeholder initiative co-designed with Ghana’s Ministry of Education, aimed at transforming educational systems for better learning outcomes, with support from leading foundations, global education partners, and cocoa and chocolate companies.

About GALOP:
GALOP is the Ministry of Education’s flagship programme to improve learning outcomes in underperforming basic schools across Ghana. Since 2020, it has directed over US$218 million toward improving education equity and accountability.

Read the full statement on the partnership here

Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons has been sued by Ibrahim Mahama

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).

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 labelled 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, emphasising 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.

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 Citi FM Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of Citi FM and Channel One TV, has been honoured at the MTN Heroes of Change Season 7 Grand Finale in the Media Heroes category.

The Foundation received a GHS 30,000 cash prize, a plaque, and a citation of honour in recognition of its impactful contributions to society—going beyond journalism to directly address social challenges through community-driven initiatives.

This recognition underscores the role of responsible media in shaping development outcomes and highlights Citi FM Foundation’s growing influence in corporate social responsibility and civic engagement.