Ghanaian musician Ayisi, born Emmanuel Kwadwo Oware, has shared the reason why it took a long time for him to be massively recognised in the music industry after a decade.
He said he kept putting in effort to produce songs but realized that not everybody is made for fame — some are made for purpose.
According to him, even though he was not recognized, he continued creating songs with optimism that things would eventually turn around for him.
The musician spoke in a recent interview following his win at the 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards, where he clinched the Record of the Year award.
“I took a break because I wasn’t going for interviews and was handling some personal stuff too. But I was always going back to the studio to record and getting ready for the right moment when everything had settled cus I’m not the type of person that will wait for everything to cool down before I’ll take actions. I was still recording and going to the studio, doing what I should be doing and when the right moment came I’m out here again.” he told Roselyn Felli on Joy Prime’s ‘Changes.’
Regardless of the fact that his work was not widely known, he never stopped creating, so he could showcase his worth whenever he was asked to provide evidence of his efforts.
Responding to a question about whether he felt pressured, given how other artists such as KiDi and Kuami Eugene rose to fame even though he broke out before them, Ayisi said “now I’ve realized that some people are not made for the fame and all of the other stuff; some people are made for purpose.”
Therefore, it is incumbent upon individuals to identify what they are made for, align with their purpose, and continue doing their best.
At one point, he was worried, but it did not discourage him, as he realized he could not compare himself to others—only to himself.
Ayisi, formerly known as A.I., caught the attention of music lovers with his song ‘Grind’ in 2016. Although he continued recording, his subsequent songs did not gain widespread recognition. In 2022, he released a new track titled ‘Can I Live,’ but it didn’t gain traction until 2024, when it eventually earned him a nomination at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards, where he won Record of the Year.
With this recognition, the artiste confidently concludes that this is his time to shine.
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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.
The recent appreciation of the Ghana Cedi has sparked a sharp debate between former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and current President John Dramani Mahama, with both leaders crediting different policies and approaches for the currency’s performance and broader economic recovery.
No NDC Policy Caused Cedi Gains – Bawumia
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, dismissed claims that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government deserves credit for the cedi’s recent gains.
Speaking during his ‘Thank You Tour’ in London, Dr. Bawumia challenged the NDC to point to any policy they have implemented that directly influenced the currency’s recent strength.
“If you are to ask the NDC to point out exactly what policy they have implemented that has resulted in the appreciation of the cedi, they cannot tell you one that has actually been implemented,” he said emphatically, adding, “Not something that has been promised or talked about—something real. There is no such policy.”
Dr. Bawumia explained that the NDC administration only passed its 2025 budget in March and has yet to begin significant spending or launch initiatives that could impact the currency. “They’ve not even issued any contracts or made any payments of note. So you cannot ascribe what is happening to the cedi to any policy they’ve implemented,” he added.
Instead, Dr. Bawumia attributed the cedi’s gains to policies enacted under former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration of which he was part of, with particular focus on the gold purchase programme launched in 2022. He recalled how Ghana’s gold reserves were a mere 8.7 tons before the programme but grew to 30 tons in just two years, equating to $5 billion in reserves accumulated through domestic acquisition.
“Ghana, as Africa’s largest gold producer, had just 8.7 tons of gold reserves. Meanwhile, countries like the US have over 8,000 tons. That reserve strength gives confidence in a currency,” Bawumia said and continued, “You don’t need to export to earn gold. You just dig it up or buy it with cedis. It was a faster and easier way to shore up reserves.”
He argued that this build-up of gold reserves, alongside the gold-for-oil programme, shielded the economy from collapse and created a foundation for the currency’s stability.
Dr. Bawumia also pointed to global factors and the NDC’s limited spending as contributing to the cedi’s current position.
“The US dollar is on a downward trend globally, which is strengthening other currencies. In Zambia, for instance, the Kwacha has gained because of the same global trend,” he noted.
He further claimed that the NDC’s failure to pay Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and contractors is temporarily reducing demand for foreign exchange, artificially easing pressure on the cedi.
“I believe what we put in place will help maintain stability in the cedi. But we’ll see how the NDC manages it going forward,” he concluded.
In response, President John Dramani Mahama has attributed the recent cedi stabilisation and signs of economic recovery to his government’s decisive and robust policy measures since taking office in early 2025. Speaking at the Ghana-European Union Business Forum in Accra, President Mahama painted a picture of an economy that was under severe fiscal distress upon his administration’s arrival.
“We had to take urgent steps with the presentation of a budget to Parliament that made a steep adjustment in the primary balance—from negative 3.9% of GDP to a projected positive 1.5% by the end of this year,” Mahama said.
“These bold and targeted interventions are now beginning to show early signs of economic recovery and renewed momentum,” he intimated.
He pointed out that Ghana’s 2024 GDP growth of 5.7%, largely driven by mining, construction, and services sectors, and pointed to data from the Bank of Ghana showing a sustained pickup in real economic activity early in 2025.
According to him, inflation, which peaked at 23.8% at the end of 2024, has started to ease, dropping to 21.2% by April.
President Mahama explained that the Ghana Cedi, after depreciating by 19.2% in 2024, has appreciated by 3.9% against the US dollar by the end of April 2025. This, he said, is supported by strong foreign exchange inflows, improved trade balances, and growing investor confidence.
“Our gross international reserves have also improved significantly—from $8.98 billion in December 2024 to $10.6 billion by April 2025—equivalent to nearly five months of import cover,” the President disclosed.
This increase reflects enhanced export earnings, particularly from gold and non-traditional exports, along with timely disbursements from multilateral partners, President Mahama said.
He added that fiscal discipline is a key factor, with the fiscal deficit dropping from 7.5% of GDP in 2024 to 6.4% in the first half of 2025, on track to meet an end-year target of 3.1%.
The President also emphasised his government’s efforts at expenditure rationalisation, improved domestic revenue mobilisation, and strong anti-corruption measures as critical to the recovery.
“The figures, though early in the year, indicate a disciplined and inclusive economic recovery,” he said, stressing the global shift from multilateral to more transactional economic relationships.
Touching on Ghana’s trade ties with the European Union, the President noted that total exports reached $20.4 billion in 2024, with a trade surplus of GH₵44.7 billion. Gold, mineral fuels, and cocoa accounted for over 82% of total exports.
He reaffirmed the EU’s role as a key development and trade partner, pointing to the Business Forum as a sign of commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation.
The Winneba Technical Institute is investigating eight of its students following a viral video of the students openly brandishing weapons.
In a viral video shared on X, the students dressed in their uniform were captured brandishing knives, pairs of scissors, and others.
The video has drawn widespread outrage particularly because of the ongoing case of the unfortunate incident involving SDA student, Suzzy Pinamang, who is still recovering from the tragedy of another student bringing a weapon to school.
Ghana wants to optimize the benefits from its largely anarchical artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector.
For this reason, Africa’s largest gold producer—and the sixth largest in the world—is ushering in a “new order” for gold trading.
As of April 30, no foreign company may purchase and export ASM gold. The move follows the annulment of all licenses held by foreign trading firms. The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), a state entity created in March, will now oversee all buying, selling, and export of ASM gold.
“Goldbod will give us better control over our gold exports and help shore up our foreign exchange reserves,” said Ghana Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson.
The West African nation has long wanted to restructure and streamline ASM mining, which accounts for one-third of its gold production, generating $5 billion in 2024. The subsector employs 1 million people and supports 4.5 million indirectly. Cumulatively, Ghana raked in $11.6 billion in gold exports last year.
Despite its importance, chaos reigns. Illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey,” thrives on child labor and is responsible for rapid land degradation, deforestation, and health risks.
By centralizing trading, Ghana hopes to end a mindbogglingly large culture of smuggling. In 2022 alone, 60 tons of gold worth an estimated $1.2 billion was smuggled out of the country.
Suppressing illegal trade is expected to result in increased revenues, with the ripple effect boosting reserves and stabilizing the local currency, the cedi.
The timing appears perfect. Global dynamics, including disruptions owing to last month’s US tariff announcements, are driving demand for gold; prices have soared 29% this year, to $3,500 per ounce in April. Some analysts expect prices to cross the $4,000-per-ounce threshold by the second quarter of 2026.
Ghana’s new gold order is a shock to foreign firms, however, which purchase most ASM gold and export it to international trading or refining companies based in Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, India, and elsewhere.
To continue operating, these firms will have to source gold through GoldBod. This adds another layer of complication, since the new law sets a 14- to 21-day approval period for gold acquisitions, which threatens to disrupt supply chains and reduce earnings.
The Bank of Ghana’s gold coin continues to see a drop in its prices for its investment, following the appreciation of the cedi against the dollar.
The Central Bank introduced the coin as a strategic measure to discourage the hoarding of the US dollar.
As of Wednesday, May 21, 2025, the Bank reported the following updated prices:
– The 0.25 oz coin is now selling at GH¢,10,855.38 down from GH¢10,866.20 on May 21, 2025.
– The 0.50 oz coin is priced at GH¢20,935.80, down from GH¢21,953.15.
– The 1.00 oz coin is selling for GH¢41,145.99, down from GH¢41,176.92.
According to the Central Bank, the initiative is designed to absorb excess liquidity in the market and help strengthen the Ghanaian cedi against major foreign currencies.
The Ghana Gold Coin is available in three denominations: one ounce, half-ounce, and quarter-ounce, and is being sold through commercial banks.
SP/MA
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Evangelist Patricia Asiedu and Gospel musician Empress Gifty
In light of Empress Gifty’s lawsuit against Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, here are the events that led to the development.
Nana Agradaa labelled Empress Gifty a prostitute and made damning claims about her
Nana Agradaa described Empress Gifty as a loose woman, accusing her of being sexually involved with even dogs. According to Agradaa, that is how Empress earns money to support her husband.
“You even respect your promiscuous wife, you respect even that wife of yours who is a prostitute, your wife flirts with dogs, dogs lick your wife’s vagina, that is how she makes money to cater for you,” Nana Agradaa stated.
Agradaa claimed that pastors sleep with Empress Gifty before she sings in church
Nana Agradaa accused Empress Gifty of having sex with pastors who invite her to church for programs.
“Pastors who invite your wife to sing have sexual intercourse with her in their offices before she mounts the pulpit to sing,” the fetish priestess turned evangelist said.
Agradaa lashed out at Empress Gifty’s husband
Nana Agradaa repeated her claim that Empress Gifty is a prostitute and accused her husband, Hopeson Adorye, of blindly supporting her wrongdoings.
At one point, she directed her attacks at Hopeson Adorye, calling him a weak man. She even stated that his wife’s infidelity is due to his erectile dysfunction.
More derogatory statements
Agradaa claimed that Empress Gifty’s private parts are used by multiple pastors, describing the gospel singer as a ‘plaything’ for them.
Gospel musician Empress Gifty has taken legal action against Nana Agradaa following a viral live video on social media in which Agradaa made defamatory and insulting claims about the gospel singer.
According to a court document (the writ), on May 13, 2025, Nana Agradaa not only targeted Empress Gifty during the live session but also directed attacks at her husband, Hopeson Adorye.
The situation escalated over several days, drawing massive attention from netizens.
Also watch as Robert Klah addresses Felicia Osei’s ticket incident at TGMAs
Sources say the deadly attack may be connected to an internal Fulani-related dispute File/photo
Three persons have been confirmed dead following a gruesome shooting incident at Nkawkaw, the Kwahu West Municipality in the Eastern Region on Tuesday evening.
According to eyewitness accounts, the victims, believed to be members of the Fulani community, were ambushed while resting at their usual gathering spot.
Unknown assailants opened fire on them instantly, claiming the lives of the three.
Sources close to the incident believe the deadly attack may be connected to an internal Fulani-related dispute, though the exact motive behind the incident remains unclear.
The Nkawkaw Police Command has since conveyed the bodies to the morgue for preservation and further examination.
An additional victim, who sustained injuries during the attack, is currently receiving treatment at a medical facility.
Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the incident and are appealing to the public for calm and cooperation as they work to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The police are yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
The Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) will on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, begin its 124th meeting to review recent macroeconomic developments and assess the country’s economic outlook.
This meeting is significant as it comes on the back of recent gains by the Ghana Cedi against the US dollar and ongoing efforts to tame inflation.
At its last meeting, the MPC increased the monetary policy rate by 100 basis points to 28 percent.
According to the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, the move was necessary to “re-anchor the inflation-moderating process,” and ensure that inflation continues on a downward path.
Already, some market watchers expect the BoG to maintain the policy rate at 28%, with any potential cuts dependent on continued disinflation.
The MPC’s decision on the policy rate will have implications for lending costs, investor confidence, and overall economic activity.
The meeting will conclude with a press briefing on Friday, May 23, 2025 to provide further clarity on the central bank’s monetary stance and the measures it intends to take in sustaining economic stability.
SP/MA
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Antony Taylor will officiate Chelsea’s crucial game against Nottingham Forest
Some supporters of Chelsea have vented their frustration at Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) for appointing Anthony Taylor to officiate their decisive game against Nottingham Forest on May 25, 2025.
The Blues will take on Forest in the final game of the 2024/2025 Premier League season, with the winner likely to place fifth and secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
The game, which will define Chelsea’s season despite the poor results in the Premier League, has dominated conversations in the football world.
The fans of the Blues have expressed their displeasure at the PGMOL for appointing Taylor, who has been at the center of controversies during Chelsea’s games he has handled.
Some have accused the refereeing body of wanting to thwart Chelsea’s chances of winning with biased officiating that would hurt the club in the end.
Others have questioned why the controversial referee was officiating their first game of the season and also taking charge of their last game, taking into consideration his record with the club.
Taylor has been one of the most controversial referees in world football, having had confrontations with coaches and players on several occasions.
Despite the controversies, he continues to officiate high-profile games, both in the Premier League and elite European competitions.
Read some of the comments below:
The most important match of Chelsea’s season, they give us a fraud
Augustin Matata Ponyo was DRC’s Prime Minister from 2012 to 2016
A former prime minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo has been sentenced to a decade’s forced labour for corruption.
Augustin Matata Ponyo was found guilty of embezzling about $245m (£182m) of public funds by the Congolese Constitutional Court on Tuesday, alongside Deogratias Mutombo, the former governor of the DR Congo’s central bank.
Matata’s lawyer told Reuters news agency that the ruling was unfair and politically motivated.
Part of the funds were taken from a major agricultural development intended to tackle the country’s chronic food shortages.
Matata served as prime minister of the DRC from 2012 to 2016 and now heads the country’s Leadership and Governance for Development party (LGD).
Prior to his premiership, he was finance minister and received praise from the International Monetary Fund at the time for stabilising the country’s economy.
Deogratias Mutombo, the central bank’s former governor, has also been sentenced to five years of forced labour in the same case and has not commented publicly on the ruling.
Forced labour is legal in DR Congo when mandated by a court for a criminal penalty, according to the US State Department.
Both men have been barred from public service for five years from the end of their terms of forced labour, the AFP news agency reports.
Matata, who campaigned against DRC President Felix Tshisekedi in the 2023 vote before dropping out, has consistently denied the charges.
The case has stretched over almost four years since the country’s Inspectorate General of Finance reported the theft from the Bukanga-Lonzo Agro-Industrial Park in 2020.
The park was one of Africa’s largest ever agricultural investments according to the Reuters news agency and the African Development Bank Group had expected to provide 22,000 jobs.
It was intended to provide reprieve to the 28 million people who currently face acute food insecurity in DR Congo, which has been plagued by conflict for more than 30 years, since the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
Ghana’s Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has strongly responded to accusations from the Minority in Parliament, saying they are trying to set him up and wrongly blame him for causing public panic over the country’s energy situation.
This heated exchange started after the minister, during a workshop organised by Parliament’s Energy Committee, revealed that Ghana had only 2.6 days’ worth of liquid fuel left to power its thermal plants.
The erstwhile Board Chairman of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), Prof. Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, who has been charged for his alleged role in the non-existent Accra Skytrain project, is said to have been rushed to an emergency ward on the dawn of the day he was expected to appear in court.
A High Court in Accra had adjourned the case to yesterday to take his plea on three offences, after he missed the first court sitting on health grounds.
Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi has been charged alongside the former Chief Executive Officer of the Fund, Solomon Asamoah, for their alleged involvement in the dissipation of state funds.
The two have each been charged with three offences, including one count of conspiracy to commit crime, causing financial loss to the state, and intentional dissipation of public fund.
Mr. Asamoah pleaded not guilty to the charges when he made his first appearance on May 13, 2025, and was granted a bail of GH¢15 million with two sureties who must be justified with landed property located in the Greater Accra Region.
The court subsequently adjourned the case to yesterday to take the plea of Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi since he was said to have undergone a medical procedure at the University of Ghana Medical Centre.
However, he was absent at yesterday’s sitting. His lawyer, Duke Aaron Sasu told the court that they had been informed at dawn yesterday that the accused had been rushed to the emergency ward of the hospital.
Justice Comfort Tasiame, the presiding judge, who was unimpressed, observed that it appeared Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi always had a medical condition on the mornings of the days he is supposed to appear in court.
His lawyer subtly disagreed, informing the court that “we were informed this dawn that he was rushed to the ward. I’m trying to get the report for the court. We’ve been told that by Friday he should be available for his plea to be taken.”
Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, said that the court was right in observing that the accused appears to be taken ill each time he was expected in court.
“We do not want to impute anything, except to say that Friday is not far. But when Friday comes, we will make a prayer to my Lady on how the prosecution intends to move forward with the second accused person (Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi),” he added.
The trial judge indicated she doesn’t like giving short dates and, therefore, adjourned the case to May 26, 2025.
Trial
Court documents indicate that the two individuals approved the transfer of $2 million from the account of GIIF into the bank account of Africa Investor Holdings Limited, a company incorporated in South Africa, without board approval.
The documents further indicate that the two caused the transfer of the money into the accounts of the company in the name of acquiring shares in Africa Investor Holdings Limited on February 25, 2019, and nothing has since been heard, said or done by the GIIF or its governing board concerning the alleged share acquisition.
The brief facts indicate that the Accra Skytrain project was to be constructed on a Design, Build, Finance, and Operate basis.
“In the memorandum of understanding, GIIF was to be the anchor equity investor and local project development partner to the Africa Investor Holdings (Proprietary) Limited. It was further agreed in the memorandum of understanding that GIIF would conduct due diligence and develop a bankable feasibility study on the project,” it added.
A shareholder agreement was subsequently signed on January 9, 2019 between GIIF and Africa Investor Holdings Ltd. where the latter was to transfer 10% of its alleged 100% shares in a company styled as ‘Ai Skytrain Consortium Holdings,’ a limited liability company registered in Mauritius.
Upon their arrest, Solomon Asamoah is said to have indicated in his cautioned statement that he obtained approval of GIIF board in respect of the payment, while Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi told investigators he signed the funds transfer on the recommendation of Mr. Asamoah.
The fact added that neither of the accused persons have been able to account for the $2 million.
THE MINISTRY of Interior, in collaboration with the Youth Employment Agency under the Ministry of Youth Development and Employment, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ghana Police Service to recruit 12,000 youths to provide support services for two years.
The MoU was signed by the Inspector General of Police, COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency, Malik Basintale, on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the Ministry of Interior.
According to the terms of the MoU, there is a possibility that some of the recruits may be permanently enlisted upon the expiration of their contracts.
The Youth Employment Agency (YEA), earlier this year signed a one-year agreement with the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to recruit 5,000 young people as Fire Assistants across the country.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed as part of efforts to tackle youth unemployment and boost fire safety operations nationwide.
In a press statement, the YEA said the initiative aims to support job creation while partnering with state institutions to enhance public safety.
Under the agreement, the Ghana National Fire Service will handle the training and supervision of the recruits, who are expected to be deployed to various regions upon completion of their training.
The recruitment process, including eligibility requirements and timelines, has not yet been announced.
The Chief Executive Officer of YEA, Malik Basintale, signed the agreement on behalf of the agency.
The Minister for the Interior and the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment were also present at the ceremony to affirm government’s support for the programme.
Ghanaian gospel musician Gifty Oppong Adorye, known in showbiz as Empress Gifty, has sued Evangelist Patricia Asiedu (Nana Agradaa) of Heavens Way Church for making defamatory statements about her.
In a writ of summons sighted by myjoyonline.com, Empress Gifty is demanding 20 million cedis from the traditional priest-turned-pastor in damages.
According to the writ, the Plaintiff (Empress Gifty) says that on 13th May 2025, the Defendant (Nana Agradaa), who seems to have a disagreement with the Plaintiff’s husband (Hopeson Adorye), took to her social media handles (Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube) and in a live broadcast attacked the Plaintiff’s husband.
She further spoke the following words defamatory of the Plaintiff in Twi language, with its respective English translation stated below:
Twi: “wo tuutuuni yere no mpo wo bu no, wo yere odwamanfoo no mpo wo bu no, nkraman ne wo yere da tafri wo yere twe mu di sika bre wo.”
English: “You even respect your promiscuous wife, you respect even that wife of yours who is a prostitute, your wife flirts with dogs, dogs lick your wife’s vagina, that is how she makes money to cater for you.”
Twi: “osofoo biara a, obeto nsa afro wo yere ako alter, ne no da wo Office ha ansa na w’aba abeto dwom wo asenka agua so.”
English: “Pastors who invite your wife to sing have sexual intercourse with her in their offices before she mounts the pulpit to sing.”
Twi: “Woyere no, oyefo sene obiara, adwaman nti Asofoo ne no de da. wo agyae no, rebetaetae me.”
English: “You left your cheap prostitute wife that has sexual intercourse with pastors to attack me.”
Twi: “Wo nkwaseasem no a, wode lea wo yere kwasea no so no, Me nnye toy te se wo yere no, me nnyi me hwene te se wo yere, Wo yere no a, ne twe adane asofoo no bi chop bar bowl.”
English: “I’m not a toy like your wife, I have not repositioned my nose like your wife. Do not extend the foolish things you do to her to me. Your wife’s vagina has become a common eating bowl for some pastors.”
The writ further indicates that “in their natural and ordinary meaning, the words complained of in paragraph 9 were understood to mean that:
a) The Plaintiff is promiscuous and a prostitute.
b) The Plaintiff is a zoophile, who flirts with dogs to earn her money to cater for her husband.
c) The Plaintiff is an adulterous or an unchaste wife who has extramarital affairs with other men, and that most of her paramours are pastors.
d) Pastors who invite the Plaintiff to their programs have sexual intercourse with her in their offices before Plaintiff mounts the pulpit to sing.
e) The Plaintiff is an imbecile.
Empress Gifty (the Plaintiff) also avers that the live broadcast made by the Defendant afforded other social media bloggers the opportunity to take the feed to their followers contemporaneously.”
The ‘Watch Me’ singer says the defamatory words spoken and published by Nana Agradaa about her are on the internet worldwide and are being widely circulated on various news portals and social media platforms, in which the Plaintiff continues to be on the receiving end of severe and disdainful backlash.
She further indicates that the widespread effect of the Defendant’s words on the Plaintiff is that she has become the subject of discussion on media outlets locally and internationally, and this has affected her children, who are taunted and ridiculed by their mates in school.
The lawyers say, as a result of Nana Agradaa’s actions, the credit and reputation of Empress Gifty—both personal and public—have seriously been damaged and have brought same into public ridicule, scandal, odium, and contempt.
They also highlight that the Plaintiff, who is a brand ambassador to numerous companies, has suffered collateral damage.
Consequently, Empress’s lawyers aver that her international programme slated for August 2025 has been affected due to the words uttered by Nana Agradaa about her.
As a result of this, Empress Gifty is claiming against the Defendant the sum of Twenty Million Ghana Cedis (GHS20,000,000.00) for damages for slander and libel of Plaintiff by the Defendant.
She is also requesting an order of perpetual injunction to restrain the Defendant, her servants, agents, privies, assigns, howsoever, from publication of such words or any of them or similar words to that effect.
The gospel singer also wants an order for the Defendant to pull down all the videos, audios in which she spoke the words defamatory of the Plaintiff from all her social media handles.
Former Director-General, Brigadier-General Eric Aggrey-Quashie
The Department of Public Relations (DPR) of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has officially bid farewell to its Director-General, Brigadier-General Eric Aggrey-Quashie, in a symbolic ceremony held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the department’s headquarters.
The event marked a significant transition in leadership, as Brig-Gen Aggrey-Quashie formally handed over command to Captain (GN) Veronica Adzo Arhin.
The occasion signified not only the end of an impactful era but also the beginning of a new chapter for the department.
The farewell ceremony served as a tribute to Brig.-Gen. Aggrey-Quashie’s years of dedicated service to both the Ghana Armed Forces and the DPR.
Under his leadership, the department achieved several milestones in strategic communication and public engagement.
In his parting remarks, the outgoing Director-General expressed heartfelt gratitude to the DPR team for their unwavering commitment, professionalism, and discipline.
He encouraged continued dedication to excellence under the new leadership.
Captain (GN) Arhin, now at the helm of the DPR, brings with her a wealth of experience and a strong background in military communication.
Her appointment has been welcomed as a progressive step in advancing the department’s mandate.
The ceremony also recognised the long and distinguished service of two retiring officers: Ex-SWOII Acquaye Eric Joseph, the first Senior Warrant Officer of the department, and WOI Akpabi Kwesi Brown, the department’s senior-most military reporter.
Both are proceeding on retirement after an exemplary 30 years of service with the colours.
The occasion concluded with commendations for the outgoing leadership and well-wishes for the new command as the department charts a fresh course forward.
Director of Communications for the Bawumia 2024 campaign, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has criticised Ghana’s limited commitment to full decentralisation, arguing that many of the country’s development challenges—including streetism, encroachment, and illegal structures—are rooted in an overdependence on central government.
Speaking on Channel One TV’sBreakfast Daily on Wednesday, May 21, Aboagye emphasized that meaningful national development can only be achieved if Ghana fully embraces decentralisation.
“Until we go full decentralised, we are not going to get to where we are staging to go. Each of the countries that we aspire to be like is fully decentralised. Their development is not anchored on the central government, but it is anchored on municipalities,” he stressed.
He noted that although Ghana’s democratic architecture was designed to support strong local governance, successive governments—regardless of political party—have failed to empower district assemblies with the autonomy and resources they need.
“You do not expect that issues like streetism, building on waterways, and encroachment should be handled or even guided by the central government. It will never work. We are being hypocritical about our decentralisation.
“It has nothing to do with the NDC or the NPP. The central government never wants the district assemblies to be fully functional. It is only when they are there that they want them to function.”
Aboagye’s remarks come amid heightened national discussions on urban management, local governance, and enforcement of bylaws—especially following the recent decongestion exercises in Accra.
His comments underscore a growing concern that the centralisation of power continues to obstruct local development and undermines the responsiveness of district assemblies to issues within their jurisdictions.
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has formally demanded a retraction and apology from New Patriotic Party (NPP) activist P.K. Sarpong, over what he describes as false and defamatory claims.
He is contesting allegations that he received a luxury Lexus vehicle, as a gift from a businessman, in violation of President John Dramani Mahama’s newly introduced Code of Conduct for government appointees.
Takoradi, May 21, GNA – Some traders at the Jubilee Park, in Takoradi, in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of the Western Region, have called on the government to pay attention to their needs ahead of the rainy season.
They made the call when the Ghana News Agency (GNA), visited the market centre to gather their views on the challenges they faced as the rains approached.
Madam Salomey Owusu, pepper and onion seller, said most of their goods got damaged whenever it rained as the whole place mostly overflowed with water after a downpour.
“We do not have tents or proper stalls to keep our commodities, therefore when it rained it becomes difficult for us to secure our items from getting destroyed by the rain,” she lamented.
She therefore appealed to the government to lay pavement bricks at the marketplace to prevent the place from getting muddy and flooded whenever it rained.
Madam Felicia Essilfie, egg and yam seller, also shared the same sentiment about the state of the market whenever it rained and called for immediate attention by the government.
She also pleaded with the government to hasten the completion of the Takoradi Market Circle project, so they could return as their businesses thrived when they used to occupy that market space.
Mr Kwame Antwi-Gyan, a head potter at the market said movement was a major problem for sellers, customers and vehicles whenever it rained.
He also explained that most of the traders run at loss as most of their items got damaged due to lack of storehouses called on authorities to intervene.
Others complained about unsanitary conditions at the market and feared for an outbreak of any form of water borne diseases.
play videoFormer MP for Subin Constituency, Eugene Boakye Antwi
Former Subin lawmaker, Eugene Boakye Antwi, has slammed the Mahama administration over their inability to curb illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, in Ghana.
Referencing the Mahama government, then in opposition, pressing former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to declare a state of emergency and repeal L.I. 2462, which permits mining activities within forest reserves, Eugene Boakye Antwi questioned why it is now difficult for the government to do exactly what they demanded of the previous administration.
He noted on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” panel discussion show that the National Democratic Congress, led by President John Dramani Mahama, is currently in power and has every opportunity to stop the galamsey menace, and thus called on the sector Minister to take action.
“You are in government today. What is preventing the NDC from repealing the so-called obnoxious L.I. 2462? What is preventing them? This is not an entrenched provision requiring a referendum. Today, you have the numbers in Parliament to see to its repeal. Why haven’t they done it yet?”
L.I. 2462, formally known as the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022, is a Ghanaian legal instrument that permits mining activities within forest reserves.
It was enacted in November 2022 under the former Akufo-Addo administration.
The former Member of Parliament and NPP stalwart further stated that one reason galamsey continues to be an albatross around the government’s neck is that some appointees have a vested interest in illegal mining.
“Looking at President Mahama’s appointments, it has made me fear people. In fact, humans are dangerous, but when you look at some people who stood against the NPP government, and today all of them have appointments, it means whatever they did was all about personal interest. They were all lying,” he concluded.
Vice President of IMANI-Africa, Kofi Bentil has strongly criticized what he describes as the unlawful invasion of churches by traditionalists enforcing a ban on noisemaking in Accra, warning that such actions could lead to tragedy if not addressed by authorities.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Kofi Bentil condemned the practice, emphasizing that Ghana operates under the rule of law, not tribal or religious traditions.
“We will soon have a tragedy on our hands if the authorities don’t stop traditionalists from lawlessly invading churches in the name of enforcing a ban of noise making!!!
“We are a nation under law, not tribal religious traditions!” he fumed.
Kofi Bentil recounted a personal experience at his church, where a group of traditionalists attempted to enter the church compound to enforce the ban, despite no noise being made.
According to him, he confronted the group’s leader, who claimed he was there to issue a warning.
Bentil challenged the trespasser’s authority, noting that the individual tried to dismiss his security personnel. After a tense exchange, the group left without incident.
He highlighted that such groups often demand money during these confrontations, exploiting the restraint of church members.
“I have encountered many many of these marauding youth attacking churches, many times; most of the time, all they want is money, but they come with force, expecting that church people will not react.
“I assure you the church people are very capable but they restrain themselves, which is why I made the post that one day we could have a problem if the attacks and invasion don’t stop,” he warned.
Drawing from his past experiences, including his time at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Kofi Bentil who is also a private legal practitioner, argued that lawful enforcement, such as issuing warnings with police presence, is sufficient to ensure compliance without resorting to vigilantism.
“If someone breaks the law, deal with it lawfully, but first know if the law has been broken,” he stated.
He acknowledged the cultural significance of the ban for some traditionalists, citing a measured response from some committed traditionalists who have also condemned the invasions.
He called for reasoned discourse to find solutions, dismissing insults from detractors as unproductive.
“Anger and insults don’t solve any problem!! We have to think and work our way out of this before anything worse occurs,” he wrote.
The annual ban on noisemaking, typically enforced by Ga traditional authorities in Accra ahead of the Homowo festival, has long been a source of tension between traditionalists and religious groups, particularly churches.
Recent attempts by some youth and Ga traditional leaders to enforce the ban in various churches has witnessed scenes of stiff standoff with some church members. Some churches have also had their instruments impounded for allegedly defying the ban.
Goil proposes final dividend of GH¢0.056 per share for 2024
Ghana Oil Company PLC (GOIL) has proposed a final dividend of GH¢0.056 per share for the 2024 financial year, subject to shareholder approval at its upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The dividend declaration underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to shareholder returns amidst a challenging macroeconomic environment.
In a notice issued on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the board of directors confirmed that only shareholders on the register at the close of business day on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, will be eligible for the dividend.
Consequently, GOIL’s register of shareholders will be closed from Wednesday, June 18 to Thursday, June 19, 2025, to facilitate the processing of the final dividend.
The ex-dividend date has been scheduled for Friday, June 13, 2025.
Investors who purchase GOIL shares before this date will qualify for the dividend, while those buying on or after the date will be excluded.
Payment of the GH¢0.056 per share dividend is expected to take effect on Friday, September 12, 2025.
GOIL remains one of the largest indigenous oil marketing companies in Ghana, and continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s downstream petroleum sector.
SP/VPO
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Ghanaian music executive and former manager of Stonebwoy, Blakk Cedi, has shared his personal accomplishment of graduating from the university after 15 years and three attempts.
In a post on his official Facebook page on May 20, 2025, Blakk Cedi revealed that he has completed the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and has finally submitted his final paper.
President John Dramani Mahama has credited the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi to increased foreign exchange inflows and targeted policy interventions aimed at stabilising the economy.
Speaking at the Ghana–EU Business Forum in Accra on Tuesday, May 20, the President revealed that Ghana’s gross international reserves have risen significantly from $8.9 billion in December 2024 to $10.6 billion in April 2025.
As the warm embrace of summer fades away and the crisp air of fall takes its place, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with pieces that blend elegance and comfort. One such versatile and timeless piece is the modest laced dress. With its delicate, intricate designs and flattering silhouette, a laced dress offers a stylish yet modest way to embrace the changing season.
Lace has always been synonymous with femininity and sophistication, and for fall, it adds a unique texture to your outfit that feels both light and cozy. The beauty of a laced dress lies in its versatility. Whether you’re attending a fall wedding, a casual day out, or a cozy dinner, a lace dress can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Pair it with a cardigan or light jacket to keep warm on chilly days, or layer it with tights and ankle boots for a more layered, seasonal look.
Moreover, the modest laced dress can easily transition between different fall activities. The soft, earthy tones typical of fall—think deep burgundies, soft greys, and burnt oranges—complement the intricate lace patterns, creating a harmonious balance between nature’s colors and elegant fashion. Whether you opt for a full lace design or subtle lace detailing, the piece will elevate your fall wardrobe with its charm and grace.
This fall, embrace both style and modesty with a laced dress that speaks to your personal style and celebrates the beauty of the season. Perfect for any occasion, it promises to keep you feeling comfortable and fashionable all season long.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has rebutted recent claims by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia that the current appreciation of the Cedi cannot be attributed to any deliberate policy by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.
Dr. Bawumia, speaking at a recent event, dismissed suggestions that the NDC administration deserved credit for the cedi’s recent gains, arguing that the government had not implemented any clear policy interventions to influence the currency’s performance.
In a sharp response, Sammy Gyamfi has outlined three major policy measures undertaken by the NDC government that he says have significantly contributed to the 16.7% appreciation of the cedi between January and May 2025.
1. Monetary Policy Tightening
Gyamfi cited the strategic monetary policy decision by the Bank of Ghana in March 2025 to increase the Monetary Policy Rate from 27% to 28%, combined with aggressive liquidity sterilisation through Open Market Operations. This, he said, was a deliberate measure to tame inflation and stabilise the currency.
2. Fiscal Consolidation
He also pointed to enhanced fiscal discipline and prudent public finance management by the Ministry of Finance, which, in his view, has helped restore investor confidence in the economy. This confidence, Gyamfi argued, is critical to stabilising the macroeconomic environment and strengthening the local currency.
3. Robust Forex Inflows through Gold and Cocoa
According to Gyamfi, Ghana has recorded unprecedented gold purchases and exports through the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) and GoldBod, leading to improved foreign exchange liquidity. He also highlighted enhanced forex inflows from cocoa exports and remittances as key contributors to the cedi’s strong performance.
“These policy interventions, alongside a favourable global context — particularly the weakening of the US dollar amid international uncertainties — have combined to significantly strengthen the Ghana cedi,” Gyamfi stated.
He further challenged Dr. Bawumia to address what he described as a fundamental question:
“What is more important: accumulating physical gold reserves with a dollar-to-cedi exchange rate of GHS16, or accumulating adequate forex liquidity through gold exports with an exchange rate of GHS12.2?”
Sammy Gyamfi maintained that the cedi’s appreciation is not accidental but the result of coordinated efforts and decisive policy action by the NDC administration, led by President John Mahama.
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 Alliance for Drivers Ghana has distanced itself from the proposed 15 per cent reduction in transport fares, citing exclusion from consultations by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union.
According to Mr Kweku Boateng, National Public Relations Officer for the Association, the directive is deemed illegal due to the lack of involvement in the decision-making process.
Aiyinasi (W/R), May 21, GNA – The Friends of the Nation ( FoN), an environmental NGO, together with the Ellembelle District Assembly, have engaged the Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) Limited on their operations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
The engagement was aimed at bridging the communication gap between the Company and the communities to streamline the CRS roles of Ghana Gas to foster industrial peace and harmony.
Mr William Augustine -Denkyi,a Project Officer with FoN, made this known during a stakeholder engagement meeting at Aiyinasi in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region.
It was attended by officials from the Ghana Gas, the Ellembelle District Assembly, National Disaster Managment Organisation (NADMO), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), community members and the media.
The engagement afforded the Ghana Gas and stakeholders, especially host communities to discuss their operations and how issues affecting the communities could be addressed.
It was also a platform to foster partnership and good human relations between Ghana Gas and community members.
Mr Augustine-Denkyi appealed to Ghana Gas officials to organize town hall meetings and sensitizations to bring activities of the Company to the doorsteps of the communities.
Mr John Quarshie, Officer in Charge of CSR at Ghana Gas, outlined of projects, services and activities embarked upon by Ghana Gas in the area.
He said Ghana Gas was more committed to managing community impact organizing community as well as designing complaints and grievance management procedure.
He said the Company had made payments in the form of compensation to people in the affected communities, embarking on sensitization exercise on their operations as well as media engagements with community members.
Mr Quarshie said in education, scholarship packages had been disbursed to uncountable number of students pursuing tertiary education among other community intervention projects.
Mr Theophilus Tamatey-Agbo, Planning Officer of the District said the Assembly would collaborate with Ghana Gas on their medium-term development plan to enable Ghana Gas to pitch the necessary projects in the respective communities within the enclave.
He lauded Ghana Gas for bringing development to the district with some major social interventions to better the life of the people.
Director of Communications for the Bawumia 2024 campaign, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has praised the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and the Ministry of the Interior for their recent operation leading to the arrest and repatriation of undocumented migrants in Accra.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Wednesday, May 21, Aboagye urged the GIS to continue such efforts, describing them as critical to safeguarding national security and public order.
“The Immigration Service should keep up with this. For the district assemblies, before we can get there, we need to look at the structures first, because the assemblies do not have the capacity.
“So, it is about resources, structures, and ensuring these systems are in place first. Then the local government system can support. But for now, I do not think they can support that,” he said.
He also expressed concern about the rising number of street beggars and their possible involvement in criminal activities.
“A lot of these beggars on the street are involved in the crime that we are facing in the country. Kudos to the Immigration Service and the Interior Ministry,” Aboagye added.
His comments followed a GIS operation in Accra on Friday, May 16, 2025, which led to the arrest and repatriation of 925 undocumented migrants, most of whom were engaged in street begging. The repatriation began the following day, Saturday, May 17.
In a statement released on Monday, May 19, the GIS confirmed that 819 of the repatriated individuals were Nigerians and 106 were Nigeriens.
The operation has sparked calls for greater enforcement at the local level. Political analyst Michael Kosi Dedey also weighed in, emphasizing that while border control is essential, district assemblies must do more to manage public spaces.
“It is impossible to ensure 100% border security. The assemblies must ensure that people do not loiter on our streets and turn them into begging spots,” Dedey stated.
Residents of East Legon are sounding the alarm over what they describe as a looming environmental disaster, following construction works by a Chinese company, Top International, which they claim is obstructing a major waterway in the area.
Their concerns follow the aftermath of last Sunday’s heavy downpour, which flooded several homes and left many residents in distress.
Community members say the flooding was exacerbated by construction activities carried out by the Chinese firm, which they accuse of diverting the natural water flow away from their property and into surrounding residential compounds.
According to the residents, Top International has allegedly blocked a key drainage path to prevent water from flowing through their compound, a move that disrupted the natural course of the water.
They noted that in previous years, rainwater safely flowed through a designated gutter system, but this has now been altered.
“Last Sunday’s rainfall broke the barrier between our building and theirs,” one resident said. “Now, these Chinese nationals want to construct a retaining wall to protect their property. But if that wall goes up, the water will have nowhere to go except into our homes. That will be a disaster waiting to happen.”
Fearing the worst, the residents have issued an urgent appeal to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), and other relevant authorities to intervene before the situation worsens.
“We are not against development, but this must not be done at the expense of our safety,” another resident added. “If this retaining wall is built, it will bring untold hardship to the entire community every time it rains.”
They warned that failure by the authorities to act swiftly could result in irreparable damage to properties and potentially endanger lives.
The residents are urging city engineers and environmental officers to assess the situation and halt any further construction that would block the natural water channels.
“We need the support of NADMO and the AMA, not just to stop this illegal construction, but to help develop a proper drainage solution for our community,” the residents stressed.
This appeal comes amid increasing complaints across Accra over unregulated construction activities and poor drainage infrastructure, which have been blamed for recurrent flooding in several urban neighborhoods.
Renowned healthcare advocate and the founder of the Ghana Foundation for Sickle Cell Action, Victoria Awo Twumasi, has been honoured with the Inspirational Leadership Award of the Year at the maiden edition of the Ghana Executive Awards, 2025.
The remarkable honour underscores her exceptional leadership in championing early intervention for Sickle Cell Disease, while mentoring women and youth in health and socio-economic initiatives. The award also signifies her stunning dedication to patient advocacy for warriors with Sickle Cell Disease, disabled communities and also for being an extremely respected personality advocating for the best healthcare practices in the country.
The event was held at Ghana’s premium Five-Star Hotel, Labadi Beach Hotel, and was organised by Globe Productions. It is a prestigious initiative designed to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of functional and department heads, along with their team, across various industries in Ghana. The award scheme aims to highlight excellence in leadership, innovation, teamwork, and organisational impact, fostering a culture of collaboration, improvement and health competition among businesses in the country. In an interview, Victoria Awo Twumasi expressed her profound gratitude to God Almighty for His guidance and favour. “My mentor, the late Prof Kwaku Ohene-Frempong and his family, fellow patient advocacy groups for our collective efforts, and all our warriors in the Sickle Cell Community, as we continue to work towards effective healthcare remedies for a better quality of Life for individuals with Sickle Cell Disease”.
According to her, the trophy signifies renewed dedication and motivation to work harder for a brighter future. ” I am extremely excited for this win. I am deeply honoured by this great achievement. My team and I started from a humble beginning, looking to build on the foundation of work that was started by my mentor, the late Professor Kwaku Ohene-Frempong, but now, we are so overwhelmed with this stunning achievement over the years.
“I dedicate this award to everyone in the Sickle Cell Disease community that is making a positive impact, my team, and my supportive board members of the Ghana Foundation for Sickle Gene Action, our Advisory Board, warriors and our partners across the globe,” she said.
Renowned US-based Ghanaian lawyer and scholar, Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, popularly known as Kwaku Azar, has bemoaned the huge salaries and benefits paid to top public office holders in Ghana.
In a write-up shared on social media on May 20, 2025, Kwaku Azar questioned why a country with so many problems would be giving huge sums of money in benefits to “elite office holders — especially those at the pinnacle of our judiciary.”
The academic cited the remuneration of a Justice of the Court of Appeal as an example of the “gilded benefits” of elite public office holders that must be re-examined.
He said that Court of Appeal judges currently earn GH¢62,000 per month as salaries, aside from the other monthly benefits they enjoy.
“Take the case of a Justice of the Court of Appeal. Under current arrangements, a justice who retires after 25 years of service on the Superior Court of Judicature receives a retirement package that is nothing short of extraordinary.
“Let’s do the mathematics. The current monthly salary for a Justice of the Court of Appeal is GH¢62,202.53,” he wrote.
Kwaku Azar also said that in addition to the fact that Superior Court justices retire on their salaries, they are given ex gratia of over GH¢6 million.
“Upon retirement, the justice continues to receive this amount every month for life — and that amount is automatically adjusted upwards any time the salary of sitting justices is increased. In effect, the pension is indexed not to inflation, but to salary growth, which is even more generous.
“On top of this, the justice receives a gratuity (aka ex gratia) equivalent to four months’ salary for every year served. If they served for 25 years (a not uncommon scenario), the maths is staggering: 4 x 25 x ₵62,202.53 = ₵6,220,253. Yes, over six million cedis — paid as a lump sum upon retirement. This is in addition to a lifetime pension that starts at over ₵746,000 annually, with built-in upward adjustments,” he added.
He pointed out that these hefty amounts paid as benefit is drains the public purse.
Read his full post below:
In a country grappling with perennial flooding, debt restructuring, unpaid contractors, IMF conditions, and chronic underinvestment in health and education, it is worth asking whether we can continue to afford the gilded benefits of elite officeholders—especially those at the pinnacle of our judiciary.
Take the case of a Justice of the Court of Appeal. Under current arrangements, a justice who retires after 25 years of service on the Superior Court of Judicature receives a retirement package that is nothing short of extraordinary.
Let’s do the math.
The current monthly salary for a Justice of the Court of Appeal is ₵62,202.53.
Upon retirement, the justice continues to receive this amount every month for life—and that amount is automatically adjusted upward any time the salary of sitting justices is increased. In effect, the pension is indexed not to inflation, but to salary growth, which is even more generous.
On top of this, the justice receives a gratuity (aka ex gratia) equivalent to four months’ salary for every year served. If they served for 25 years (a not uncommon scenario), the math is staggering:
4 x 25 x ₵62,202.53 = ₵6,220,253
Yes, over six million cedis—paid as a lump sum upon retirement. This is in addition to a lifetime pension that starts at over ₵746,000 annually, with built-in upward adjustments.
For the individual judge, this is a spectacular reward.
But for the public purse? The cost is deeply concerning.
If even ten justices retire in a given year under these terms, the state will shell out over ₵62 million in gratuities alone, and nearly ₵8 million per year in pension payments, escalating over time.
And this does not include healthcare, security, drivers, housing, or other post-retirement benefits that may attach to the office.
In the abstract, it is easy to justify generous judicial compensation. Judges should be above corruption, financially secure, and motivated to protect the rule of law without fear or favour. Robust retirement benefits are often part of that architecture of independence.
But in practice, there is a point at which such benefits risk becoming unjust, unsustainable, and detached from the economic reality faced by the rest of the population.
The reality is:
• National service personnel earn less than ₵1,000 per month;
• Medical doctors and other health professionals are underpaid and under-resourced.
•Many public workers face arrears and delayed salary adjustments;
•Citizens were forced to accept “haircuts” on government bonds and pensions;
•Hospitals and schools routinely lack essential supplies due to budget shortfalls;
• Accra floods when it rains.
In such a context, can we honestly defend paying millions of cedis to a single individual in retirement while basic public services remain underfunded?
If the test of policy is whether it is fair, effective, and sustainable, then this current judicial retirement scheme fails on all three counts.
It is fair only to the few.
It is effective only in enriching a select class.
And it is sustainable only if the rest of society agrees to permanent austerity.
Reforming judicial pay should not mean undermining judicial independence. But judicial privilege must not become judicial exceptionalism. If we are all in this republic together, then burdens and benefits alike must be shared more equitably.
The “Professor this, Professor that” Emoluments Committee appears more committed to academic abstraction than fiscal responsibility—crafting golden parachutes in an economy begging for lifeboats.
The time has come to ask: Is it justice to give justices a golden parachute while the rest of society is asked to tighten their belts and take haircuts?
Da Yie!
BAI/VPO
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Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, continues to appreciate on the interbank market against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.
In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢12.09 and a selling price of GH¢12.10 to the dollar.
The British pound is being bought at GH¢16.16 and sold at GH¢16.18, while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢13.61 and a selling price of GH¢13.62.
Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 21, 2025, at 9:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢13.50, while the pound is selling at GH¢18.00 at some forex bureaus across the country.
Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢15.40 on the retail market.
To curb the cedi’s depreciation, the Bank of Ghana sold over $200 million in the last quarter of 2024.
SP/MA
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play videoSeer Gyan has predicted that Asante Kotoko will win the 2025 Ghana Premier League
Football soothsayer Isaac Kwaku Gyan has disclosed that Asante Kotoko will emerge as the champions of the 2024/2025 Ghana Premier League.
According to him, it has been revealed to him that the Porcupine Warriors are likely to clinch the league title despite the tough challenge at the summit of the table.
The popular soothsayer noted that the interim head coach of Kotoko, Karim Zito, has a positive fortune compared to his predecessor, Prosper Nartey Ogum.
Seer Gyan cautioned the team officials to ensure that unity prevails in the club and avoid any internal wrangling, that seeks to derail their title ambitions.
“I have said it several times that Kotoko will win this year’s league. The only thing that could make them lose it is infighting, so they should be united.
“They allowed the previous coach to put them where they are. If the current coach had come earlier, Kotoko would have won the league by now because he has good luck,” he said during an interview with Brighto TV, as shared on YouTube.
He further added that, “Although the competition is tough, it’s not too late. They should keep fighting. In the realm, they are favourites. The players are performing better now than they were under Ogum. Bibiano Gold Stars will not beat Kotoko in Bibiani.”
After 31 matches, Kotoko lie in fourth position on the league table with 54 points, trailing leaders Nations FC by three points.
The Kumasi-based team will face second-placed Bibiani Gold Stars in an away fixture and play two more matches.
They will have to win their remaining three games and hope the top three teams drop points for their title ambition to come to pass.
Watch Seer Gyan’s remarks below:
Meanwhile, watch as ADISEC win the 4×200 Boys finals at the 23rd Annual Inter schools and colleges
The former vice president of Ghana, Dr. Bawumia has called Ghanaian Youtuber, Kwadwo Sheldon on the phone.
The shocking call conversation was made known to the public by Kwadwo Sheldon via his official social media platforms.
The call from the former vice president comes after the media personality’s house got flooded following the recent heavy downpour at his place of residence.
As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) begins the long road to reorganisation and recovery after its painful defeat in the 2024 general elections, some prominent party members have stepped forward with bold declarations of intent.
Two former Members of Parliament, Eugene Boakye Antwi and Henry Kwabena Kokofu, have both confirmed their interest in contesting for the General Secretary position, one of the most critical roles in the party’s hierarchy.
….As Ex-Council of State Member breaks silence, demands Police and National Security probe
The Herald’s investigations into claims made by a New Patriotic Party (NPP) activist that three Supreme Court Justices held a meeting at a restaurant in the Villagio apartment complex concerning the ongoing probe into suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo are proving to be entirely unfounded.
The 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for the Adentan Constituency, Akosua Asaa Manu aka Kozie has visited communities in the constituency severely affected by the devastating floods of Saturday, May 18, 2024.
The floods, triggered by hours of torrential rainfall, claimed at least three lives, including a four-year-old girl named Hajara, and caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, and public infrastructure.
On Tuesday, May 21, 2025, Kozie toured the worst-hit areas to express sympathy, assess the damage firsthand, and engage with agencies coordinating relief efforts.
“This is not just a natural disaster; it’s a wake-up call,” Kozie said.
“We need urgent action to correct the engineering and planning failures that contributed to this tragedy. The lives and livelihoods lost cannot be in vain.”
Her visit began in Nanakrom, where she met families whose homes had been submerged. She also visited the grieving family of young Hajara. Emotions ran high as Kozie offered her condolences and pledged her full support.
“This is one of the hardest moments I’ve faced,” she said. “No child should die because of poor planning and drainage. As a mother, I feel this loss deeply. I will fight for the reforms our communities need.”
In Lakeside, Kozie walked through flooded homes and shops, speaking with affected residents and small business owners.
At Emills Bakery, the owner, Madam Linda, shared how the floodwaters had ruined her equipment and stock. She said Kozie’s presence brought a glimmer of hope.
“The floods nearly wiped out everything I’ve worked for. Madam Kozie’s visit shows that someone cares and is listening,” she said.
During her visit, Kozie met with the NADMO district officer, who assured her of the ongoing implementation of a project called “Free Waterways.”
The initiative aims to open up blocked drains and prevent future flooding.
While commending the effort, Kozie pledged to monitor its progress.
“Relief items are important, but what we need most is a complete rethink of our drainage systems and the enforcement of planning regulations. We cannot treat disasters as one-off events. We must build resilience.”
Despite the devastation, Kozie’s presence lifted spirits in the affected communities. She assured residents of her continued advocacy and support.
“This is my home too. I will keep coming back, I will keep listening, and I will keep fighting for lasting change. Together, we can build a safer Adentan—one prepared for the future, not crippled by it.”
Residents like Nana Ama, who lost valuables in the floods, expressed gratitude.
“It’s not just politics. Madam Kozie walked with us through the wreckage and gave us hope. That means everything.”
Last year, Kozie personally funded the construction of some drainage systems in Lakeside. Residents acknowledged that but for her intervention, the flood damage would have been far worse.
Many locals blamed poor engineering and planning decisions for the floods, especially the channelling of multiple drains into a single outlet.
Some accused road contractors of abandoning drainage works mid-way and failing to consider runoff volumes from higher elevations such as Oyarifa and Katamanso.
Kozie called on the Adentan Municipal Assembly, the Ministry of Works and Housing, and relevant stakeholders to collaborate on an urgent and comprehensive drainage improvement plan, particularly in fast-developing areas like Nanakrom and Lakeside.
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.
President John Mahama has assured the business community of the government’s commitment to ensure transparency, policy predictability and a friendly environment for their activities to thrive in the country.
He said the measures had become necessary to “restore confidence in our public procurement system, enforce contract sanctity and protect investor rights under both domestic and international legal regimes”.
The President mentioned five strategic areas where businesses, particularly those from EU countries could invest in.
They are agro-industrial zones – cocoa, cashew, spices, ginger and vegetables; renewable energy and green parks; pharmaceutical industry; digital infrastructure innovation and transport connectivity.
He said those areas were aligned with the government’s policies, particularly the 24-hour economy designed to incentivise production in the agriculture, energy, skills development and other sectors.
The President, therefore, said prioritising investment in those areas would help to build a resilient and dynamic economy that created jobs, added value to the country’s natural resources and empowered small-scale and medium enterprises to scale up.
Ghana-EU forum
President Mahama was speaking at the opening session of the Third Ghana-EU Business Forum in Accra yesterday.
The two-day event is to, among other objectives, enable participants from EU member states and the private sector to have dialogue with the government on its investment agenda to foster confidence and commitment to a stronger and sustainable Ghana-EU partnership.
It was on the theme: “Deepening the Ghana – EU cooperation on trade and investment in non-traditional value chains under the EU Global Gateway Strategy.”
The President described the forum as timely, as it had provided a unique opportunity to unlock the synergy between EU’s capital and Ghana’s rich natural resource potential.
“Let us use this business platform to launch new partnerships that will create decent jobs and transform industries.
This government stands ready to foster partnerships,” he said.
The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, said that the government was poised to make its reset agenda reflect in improved business environment.
Key agreements
There was also the launch of some intervention programmes the EU was implementing to bolster the country’s economy.
One of such projects is the Better Farming initiative, a €19.5 million fund co-funded by France and implemented by the French Development Agency (AFD) in northern Ghana to boost transition towards a sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.
The initiative focuses on shea, soya, vegetables and beekeeping value chains in the Northern, Upper West, Upper East, Savannah and North East regions.
There is also a Green, Digital and Inclusive Private Sector Development meant to foster a greener, digitalised and inclusive private sector – creative industries, healthcare and pharmaceuticals.
The €17.3M project, co-funded by the Netherlands and France, is focussing on northern Ghana (Tamale).
Another project that was unveiled was the Team Europe Initiative – Investing in Young Businesses in Africa (IYBA) that would support early-stage businesses and young entrepreneurs, particularly women, with financial and technical resources.
The project covers nine African countries with €4 billion funding for sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana.
An agreement was also signed for The AgriFI – Ghana Country Window project, meant to strengthen agribusiness value chains, establish six fulfilment centres (aggregation, quality control, logistics), and expand digital platforms with €2.23 million loan through EU and EDFI Management Company for Complete Farmer (agritech firm).
Commitment
The EU Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly, said the forum was a critical initiative as it would strengthen partnerships that would help to unlock opportunities for job creation, economic growth and sustainable development.
“We believe in Ghana, and we have heard the President say Ghana is ready for business again.
We have a shared vision in what we can do together to help the talented youth of Ghana,” he said.
“This forum is a gesture that shows that we believe in this partnership for our mutual benefit and we want to nurture it,” the ambassador added.
For her part, the Deputy Director-General of the EU Commission, Myriam Ferran, said the commission was looking forward to a win-win situation through the promotion of a common economic development with focus on job creation.
Japan’s agriculture minister has resigned after saying he never buys rice because he gets it free, a remark that drew public fury in a country facing soaring food prices.
Taku Etō’s resignation has added to pressure on the prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, whose failure to rein in soaring rice prices and address a wider cost of living crisis has angered voters ahead of upper house elections in July.
“Just now I submitted my resignation to Prime Minister Ishiba,” Etō told reporters at the prime minister’s office.
Etō had faced calls for his resignation after claiming that he never had to buy rice, relying instead on gifts from supporters.
Etō had initially sympathised with the “hardship” felt by consumers after the government released about 300,000 tons of rice from emergency stockpiles earlier this year in the hope of bringing down prices. But speaking at a fundraiser last weekend, Etō said he had “never bought rice myself because my supporters donate so much to me that I can practically sell it”.
Etō was replaced on Wednesday by Shinjirō Koizumi, a former environment minister who ran unsuccessfully against Ishiba for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership last autumn.
Etō’s comment incensed consumers, who are having to pay nearly double for a bag of rice compared with a year ago, according to figures published in April.
“I asked myself whether it is appropriate for me to stay at the helm [of the agriculture ministry] at a critical time for rice prices, and I concluded that it is not,” Etō added, according to the Kyodo news agency.
“Once again, I apologise to people for making extremely inappropriate comments as minister when they are struggling with surging rice prices.”
Japan’s rice shortfall has been blamed on several factors, including poor harvests due to hot weather in 2023 and panic-buying prompted by a “megaquake” warning in 2024. Wholesalers and distributors are also thought to be hoarding rice stocks in anticipation of further shortages.
Ishiba had earlier apologised for Etō’s remarks.
The ongoing rice crisis and rising household food and energy bills have dented the popularity of Ishiba’s government, weeks before it faces voters in upper house elections that could determine his future as prime minister.
In a recent Kyodo survey, 87% of respondents were dissatisfied with the government’s handling of the rice prices, while approval ratings for Ishiba’s cabinet have sunk to their lowest since he took office last October.
The average price of rice sold at supermarkets in the week to 11 May reached a record ¥4,268 yen ($29) for 5kg, up from ¥4,214 the previous week and around double the price of a year ago.
In April, Japan imported rice from South Korea for the first time in a quarter of a century in an attempt to address growing consumer anger.
Junya Ogawa, secretary general of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic party, described Etō’s comments as “extremely inappropriate, out of touch and intolerable”.
Etō conceded that his remarks had angered his wife. “She told me that she does buy rice when the donated rice runs out,” he said. “It’s not like our family is living entirely off of rice given to us as gifts.”
President Mahama has projected that single-digit inflation will be reported by the country at the end of the first half of the year.
In an address at the Ghana-EU Business Forum held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra yesterday, President Mahama stated that his government will achieve this feat by effecting a tighter monetary policy rate, cutting expenditure, and reducing debt accumulation.
Two issues last week illustrate something we probably know or observe daily about the country we all dearly love – governing Ghana amidst partisan rancour and trying to solve its socio-economic challenges is no mean task.
I often describe those who step inside the ring of politics, seek elected office in the name of solving these problems, possess a unique form of fortitude that people like me do not have.
Observing the daily battle of making the right policy choices, working with the administrative state that has its challenges for successful implementation of policies and programmes, all amid regular partisan rancour over who gets credit or blame for the country’s conditions (positive or negative) and legitimate citizens demands for governments to meet the basic democracy dividends must be challenging.
But from the President to members of parliament to political appointees, each one was fully aware of this governing dynamic when they stepped up and agreed to serve their beloved country, Ghana.
They, ,therefore, must be up to the task.
When all is said and done, though, how do we avoid the pitfalls of partisan rancour and address the issues?
The energy sector debt
The words of the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor last week, as he spoke to the parliamentary committee on energy, were not very comforting. It revealed a heavily indebted energy sector.
But this picture is not new, as far as I can remember. In his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo said the following – “We have inherited a heavily indebted energy sector, with the net debt reaching $2.4 billion as of December 2016.”
President John Mahama, delivering the first SONA of his second presidency, said this, “Mr Speaker, the energy sector faces significant financing challenges primarily due to collection and system losses, non-compliance with the Cash Waterfall Mechanism and legacy debts.
The financing shortfall has risen considerably to approximately US$2.2 billion or GHS 34 billion for 2025, and urgent measures will be needed to reduce it to sustainable levels and ultimately eliminate it.”
In the face of these challenges, there is the usual partisan rancour centred on who is responsible for the current state of the energy sector.
Surely, whatever we are experiencing today is the cumulative effect of various policy choices over several years.
I am no energy expert, but I can appreciate the crippling nature of debt. More importantly, it appears that structural issues are driving this cyclical phenomenon.
The energy sector is intricately linked to other sectors of the economy.
Businesses require a regular, constant supply of electricity and so do citizens.
The key question is, along the value chain of power supply, where are the fault lines and what needs to be done about them? Over to you, policy makers.
The cedi-dollar exchange rate
The country’s currency is doing well. Between the governor of the Central Bank, my good friend Dr Theo Acheampong and Prof. Bokpin, their explanations point to both endogenous (intentional policy choices of government and the Central Bank) and exogenous (weakening of the US dollar) factors driving this positive development.
On this issue as well, partisan rancour is present.
For ruling party partisans, the government must be credited for this positive development, as it reflects sound policy choices.
Partisans of the main opposition party (NPP), however, attribute the positive development to exogenous factors, as well as the benefits of an inherited policy from the previous administration.
Whatever the factors driving this positive development, three things are clear.
First, if the currency is experiencing a depreciation, there is a good chance the government will be held responsible.
Therefore, I can understand why, in an era of appreciation, the government gets credit for it.
Second, the medium-to long-term goal is a sustainable exchange rate at a level that offers markets certainty and allows businesses to plan accordingly without too much disruption.
Lastly, I hope exchange rate politics and lessons from yesteryears are still fresh on the minds of partisans, especially ruling party partisans.
What Next?
Partisan politics is inevitable in a multiparty democracy with regular competitive elections.
Our two main political parties, the NPP and the NDC, shape our discourse on matters of politics, policy and governance.
Partisan debates can be healthy when they are focused on finding and building consensus on critical policy issues, even in the face of deep disagreements.
It is the reason I do not wholly eschew partisan politics.
The governing challenge amidst partisan rancour, though, is this – citizens at the end of the day clamour for basic governing dividends such as regular supply of electricity, clean water, good roads, schools, health facilities, education infrastructure, etc.
The truth is that the presence or absence of these governing dividends does not discriminate against everyday citizens.
Ghana is seeking technical support from the United Arab Emirates to establish a new national airline, following a two-day state visit by Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
In a statement following the visit, the Ghanaian foreign ministry said the visit explored “potential collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, education, healthcare, aviation, defence, and labour export.”
In a personal social media post on May 13, Ablakwa said: “We obtained commitments from UAE companies who will be arriving in Ghana over the next few weeks to invest in sectors such as renewable energy, AI, education, health, aviation and defence – consistent with [John] Mahama’s declaration that Ghana is open for business again. We also discussed two priority areas of President Mahama’s government, being labour export for Ghanaian youth to the UAE and technical support for a new national airline.”
The government recently set up a 10-member task team to write the business plan and operational framework for a new national airline.
Ghana has made several failed attempts to revive its national airline after the collapse of Ghana Airways (Accra) in 2004 and Ghana International Airlines (Accra) in 2010.
The Social Security and National Insurance Trust is betting on the widely used mobile money to improve pension accessibility and convenience, as it deepens its digital transformation strategy to reach a broader base of contributors.
With mobile money transaction volumes and values surging to record highs in 2024, SSNIT is integrating mobile money platforms into its service delivery model. The aim is to make pension-related services more accessible to informal sector workers and the broader population who already use mobile wallets daily for payments and remittances.
“Almost everyone in Ghana today uses mobile money,” said Kwesi Afreh Biney, Director-General of SSNIT, during the Trust’s 52nd branch launch on the Spintex road in Accra.
“We use it to make payments, to transfer funds and it cuts across all demographics. It just makes sense for us to ride on that convenience,” he added.
The shift forms part of SSNIT’s broader strategy to digitise services and increase contributor touchpoints. Beyond mobile integration, the agency has rolled out a virtual branch platform offering 24-hour access to services such as benefit claims, compliance engagements and data updates. Contributors can now access nearly every service remotely that they could in a physical SSNIT office.
“We’re scaling up to the next level of digital performance,” Biney said. “From USSD to a functional app and now a virtual branch – we’re available when our members are ready.”
SSNIT’s move comes amid a nationwide surge in digital financial activity. In 2024 mobile money transaction value soared to a record GH¢3.02trillion, up nearly 58 percent from the previous year.
Monthly volumes peaked at 745 million transactions in December 2024. Early 2025 figures suggest momentum remains strong, with GH¢649.2billion worth of transactions recorded in just January and February.
Elimination of the controversial Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy) in early 2025 is expected to further accelerate mobile money adoption and, by extension, digital pensions engagement.
While improving access remains the primary goal, SSNIT is also eyeing investment reforms to sustain pension payouts. Mr. Biney noted recent concerns over non-performing assets of the Trust, saying the Trust is actively rebalancing its portfolio toward higher-yield areas.
“We’ve reviewed our portfolio and are channelling more funds into fixed income securities and listed equities – especially in banking, telecoms and industrial sectors – which are delivering strong returns,” he noted. The Trust is also expanding its footprint in the energy sector, leveraging positive performance from its Tema power plant and planning new operations in Kumasi.
SSNIT’s stance on the national retirement age remains cautious. Although stakeholders, including the National Pensions Regulatory Authority, have floated ideas to raise the retirement threshold, the Director-General says any such move requires broader consultation and economic consideration.
“Increasing life expectancy is a factor, but high unemployment also means we need to create room for younger workers. This is a conversation for all stakeholders,” he said.
Empress Gifty sues Nana Agradaa for GH?20 million over defamatory claims
Ghanaian gospel musician Empress Gifty Adorye has filed a defamation lawsuit at the Tema High Court against controversial self-styled evangelist, Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.
According to legal documents shared by her husband, Hopeson Adorye, the lawsuit was officially filed on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, by the law firm Osei Aidoh Akpokavie and Co, acting on behalf of Empress Gifty.
Samuel Nartey George, the minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation is demanding a retraction and apology from NPP activist P.K. Sarpong over allegations he received a Lexus vehicle.
The NPP activist in a Facebook post claimed the minister was using an unregistered vehicle described as a “top of the range Lexus,” claiming it was a gift from an unnamed individual which flouts President Mahama’s Code of Conduct for government appointees.
The Minister of Transport, Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, says the country must take proactive and decisive steps towards transitioning to cleaner and more environmentally sustainable fuels.
According to him, the current energy landscape of transportation was “unsustainable” and posed significant challenge to the environment, the economy and future generations.
To this end, he has emphasised the need for urgent actions to be taken to address the situation lest its impact would be disastrous.
Mr Nikpe also noted this at the opening of the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO’s) assistance, capacity building and training programme
THE Minister of Transport, Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, says the country must take proactive and decisive steps towards transitioning to cleaner and more environmentally sustainable fuels.
According to him, the current energy landscape of transportation was “unsustainable” and posed significant challenge to the environment, the economy and future generations.
To this end, he has emphasised the need for urgent actions to be taken to address the situation lest its impact would be disastrous.
Mr Nikpe also noted this at the opening of the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO’s) assistance, capacity building and training programme
Former Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Michael Okyere Baafi, has refuted claims by the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) that cement prices have dropped to GHS 82.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Mr. Baafi insisted that cement prices remain unchanged, stating categorically that the government has not held any discussions with manufacturers to influence pricing.
“Ghana operates a free market economy where prices are determined by market forces, not political gimmicks,” he said.
He explained that while the recent appreciation of the cedi provides an opportunity for price reductions, the NDC has instead resorted to spreading misinformation.
Mr. Baafi urged producers to take advantage of the strengthened cedi to benefit consumers and called for leadership that promotes transparency and accountability.
“Ghana deserves truth, stability, and affordable prices,” he emphasized, adding that the focus should be on real solutions rather than propaganda.
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) taskforce continued its decongestion exercise on Wednesday, May 21, at the busy Circle Neoplan Station, as part of its ongoing efforts to ease congestion in the capital.
The operation, marking Day 2 of the decongestion campaign, focused on clearing unauthorized structures, removing street vendors, and enforcing sanitation and traffic regulations in the area.
According to officials, the goal of the exercise is to restore order, improve both pedestrian and vehicular movement, and ensure compliance with city planning regulations.
The campaign began on Tuesday, May 20, with Day 1 targeting areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka—known hotspots for street vending and traffic congestion.
Authorities have urged traders and commuters to cooperate fully with the taskforce to avoid confrontations.
The AMA has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the exercise, aiming to make Accra cleaner, safer, and more accessible for all residents.
In a related development, the Mayor of Accra, Michael Allotey, announced that items seized during the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District would be donated to the Ghana Prisons Service.
He further explained that, while the AMA previously auctioned seized items, that practice would no longer continue.
Decongestion: Seized goods will be donated to prisons service – Accra Mayor
A pregnant drug mule who attempted to smuggle 22.5kg worth of cannabis into Britain has avoided jail after saying she needed the money to pay for a deposit on a house.
Daniella KanKam-Adu, 19, was offered £250 in return for smuggling £225,000 worth of cannabis from Canada to Newcastle Airport on March 3 this year.
The 19-year-old, of Queens Road, London, said she believed her luggage contained vapes, but Border Force quickly found heaps of the Class B drug.
When questioned if she had packed her own luggage by airport officials, KanKam-Adu insisted that she had but there was nothing of concern within it.
Prosecuting, Kevin Wardlaw told Newcastle Crown Court: ‘When asked to open one [item of her luggage] she said she didn’t have the key. She became aware the locks would be forced.
‘Her attitude changed, she became obstructive, making comments to the officer. The officer was not being racist, it was just a random check.’
The suitcase was found to contain 22.5 kilos of cannabis, worth around £67,500 wholesale and with a street value of £225,000.
She pleaded guilty to being concerned in the fraudulent evasion on the prohibition on the importation of cannabis.
Prosecutors accepted her basis of plea, which was that a friend suggested she could make money by helping to bring vapes back to the UK and avoid paying tax.
KanKam-Adu said she was told she would be paid £250 to carry out the act and went to Toronto on tickets given to her and followed instructions.
She said she was given a suitcase to bring back to the UK and realised because of the size and weight that it did not contain vapes and must be cannabis.
KanKam-Adu added that she didn’t know the value of the drugs and decided to come back anyway as she needed the money and had a plane ticket.
Glenn Gatland, defending, said KanKam-Adu had a difficult childhood and spent time in a care home. He added that before the offence, she discovered she was pregnant and didn’t want the child to experience the same childhood she had.
Mr Gatland said the 19-year-old needed money for a deposit on somewhere to live and was ‘naive’ in agreeing to the suggestion of a friend to bring vapes back to the UK.
He added that she has been remanded in custody for three months, during which time she suffered a miscarriage.
Mr Gatland added: ‘She has spent three months in custody and that will certainly serve as a deterrent to her to keep out of trouble in future.’
KanKam-Adu was sentenced to 12 months suspended for 18 months.
