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Kweku Zurek

May – 20 – 2025 , 18:07

2 minutes read

Tullow Ghana to restart drilling in Ghana

Tullow Ghana and its partners have announced the restart of drilling operations in the Jubilee Field, following the completion of their previous campaign in December last year.

According to the company, this marks the beginning of a renewed phase of investment and confidence in Ghana’s energy future.

The new two-year program, set to begin in May 2025, is expected to boost oil production and enhance operational efficiency at one of West Africa’s strategic oil fields.

This follows Tullow’s earlier four-year drilling program, which concluded in December 2024. That campaign successfully delivered 18 new wells, six months ahead of schedule and under budget.

Managing Director of Tullow Ghana, Jean-Médard Madama, stated, “This is an exciting moment for us. The restart of drilling reflects another milestone in our journey in Ghana and demonstrates our confidence in the country’s resource base. Even as the field matures, we remain confident in its ability to deliver value for our shareholders, partners, and the people of Ghana.”

The upcoming campaign will be rolled out in phases, beginning in May 2025, with further activity scheduled for November and continuing into 2026.

Tullow’s previous drilling campaign was recognized for its efficiency, strong safety record, and disciplined cost management. The company has expressed its commitment to achieving even higher standards in drilling management throughout the new project.

Ahead of the restart, Tullow recently completed a 16-day maintenance exercise at the Jubilee Field to upgrade operations and reduce risks.

“Despite entering a mature phase, the Jubilee Field remains a critical source of production and a revenue base for key stakeholders in the sector. This new campaign will seek to unlock further value,” according to a report by myjoyonline.com.

SSD/MA

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A GNA feature by Laudia Sawer 

Tema, May 20, GNA- The airwaves of televisions and radio stations in the first quarter of 2025 witnessed news of road crashes claiming lives, injuring many and destroying property. 

The sight is becoming a norm instead of abnormalities, with the screeching of tyres, metals twisted in wreckage, windscreens shattered, and the pain injured persons go through, while the bodies of the dead who would never return to their loved ones are being carried away to mortuaries, continue to be witnessed on Ghana’s highways. 

Ghana’s roads, especially the highways, are gradually turning into a death traps, swallowing innocent passengers whose crime are mere embarking on journeys for several reasons, including economic, cultural, schooling, recreational and many others. 

The carnage does not only affect those in vehicles or driving but also pedestrians who may be standing by or crossing a road in their neighbourhood on their way from school, an errand or even work. 

Road Crash Data 

A provisional road crash report from the National Road Safety Authority (NSRA) covering January to March 2025 revealed that a total of 3,674 road crash cases were reported in the first quarter of 2025, showing an increase of 269 over the 3,405 seen in 2024. 

Out of the total, 4,287 people were injured, showing a 12.14 per cent increase over the 3,823 recorded in 2024, while the reported crashes also led to a 23.48 per cent increase in deaths from 609 in the first quarter to 752 in the same period in 2025. 

The data also showed an increase of 77 in the number of pedestrian knockdowns, as 650 knockdowns occurred in the first three months of this year, compared to the 573 seen during the same period in 2024.  

A total of 178 pedestrians were killed, showing a 39.06 per cent increase over what occurred in 2024. 

The summary for the road traffic crash and casualty situation in Ghana also revealed that in April 2025, a total of 1,105 crashes were recorded, involving 1,903 vehicles, killing 259 people, injuring 1,304 people, with 181 pedestrian knockdowns. 

Out of the April statistics, 180 were fatal, 414 serious, and 511 minor, while that of the first quarter showed 792 fatal, 1,711 serious, and 2,276 minor. 

Age-wise, in the first quarter of 2025, 116 children aged below 18 years lost their lives in road crashes, while it also claimed the lives of 895 people aged 18 years and above, which forms 89 per cent of all fatalities.  

About 78 per cent (792) of the victims of road crashes in 2025 were males, while females formed 22 per cent (219). 

Causes of Road Crashes 

Road crash causes can be multifaceted, with human errors being identified by experts as a major cause in Ghana. 

Mr Tonny Dickson Afriford, the Executive Director of Global Road Safety Media Foundation and a road crash analyst, outlined human errors or behaviours on the road which cause accidents as poor driver judgement, speeding beyond the regulated limit, and the state of the vehicle, as well as road construction defects, lack of enforcement, and lack of understanding of the safety rules. 

Reckless driving and speeding remain the leading causes, with many drivers ignoring speed limits and overtaking dangerously. Drunk driving and fatigue, especially among commercial drivers, continue to also play a deadly role. 

Poor vehicle maintenance, including brake and tyre failures, often turns avoidable faults into fatal consequences, while disregard for traffic regulations, such as running red lights and failing to yield to pedestrians, further escalates the risk of crashes. 

Pedestrian negligence and jaywalking, particularly in urban areas where they cross at unauthorised places instead of using pedestrian crossings and overhead bridges, also contribute to fatalities. 

Inadequate road infrastructure, poor signage, and lack of proper street lighting make certain stretches of road inherently dangerous. The takeover of walkways by traders and vehicles also increases the risk of pedestrian knockdowns, as they are forced to walk on the roads. 

Effects of road crashes 

Road crashes lead to death, while some victims also end up with permanent injuries, turning them into disabled people due to amputations, spinal injuries, and head trauma, among other things. 

 Some survivors are also left with post-traumatic stress disorders and other emotional traumas, including depression and anxiety, as witnessing or surviving a crash can leave long-lasting psychological scars. 

Having such physical or psychological disorders as a result of a road crash could leave a survivor with a loss of livelihood, as injuries can render victims unable to work, plunging them into poverty, especially in a country where social support systems are limited.  

Survivors’ medical costs and rehabilitation costs can push families into financial crisis. 

In addition to the above effects, losing a loved one suddenly in a crash brings unbearable grief, especially when the person is a child, parent, or spouse, or the breadwinner. 

Many road crash victims are in their productive years; as shown by the statistics, losing young workers and professionals in crashes weakens the national workforce and increases the healthcare burden and insurance claims, among other things. 

Way Forward 

To reduce the carnage on the roads, there is the need to strengthen law enforcement by increasing the presence of Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD) officers on the road to ensure drivers obey the road traffic laws and the penalties for speeding, drunk driving, reckless overtaking, and driving vehicles that are not roadworthy documents be compelled to face the full rigours of the law.   

Periodic training and sensitisation of drivers is also key to put the drivers up to date with the road traffic regulations. There is also the need for improvement in the country’s road infrastructure, with dangerous road segments regularly repaired and upgraded. 

Road markings, including pedestrian crossings, need to be well marked, in addition to the provision of street lights and proper road signage being well marked, while more footbridges and pedestrian walkways are provided to prevent jaywalking in high-risk areas. 

There is also the need for intensified public awareness campaigns on radio safety in the media, schools, churches, markets, lorry parks, and among identifiable groupings. 

To protect pedestrians, metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies (MMDA) must clear illegal street traders from walkways and enforce urban by-laws while ensuring that urban roads are constructed with separate pedestrian and vehicle lanes where possible. 

Road crash survivors and their families must also be given some psychological and medical support. 

Conclusion: 

The statistics from the first quarter of 2025 paint a grim reality: Ghana’s roads, once seen as gateways to opportunity, have become corridors of tragedy. 

 From children walking home from school to breadwinners travelling for work, no one is truly safe on our highways.  

This crisis are not just a transport issue; it is a national emergency that affects public health, economic productivity, family stability, and the very fabric of our society. 

To reverse this deadly trend, a coordinated and urgent response is needed. It requires not just stricter laws but a change in attitudes, improved infrastructure, and a commitment to valuing every Ghanaian life. 

 If Ghana is to break away from this cycle of loss, the time for action is now; all must contribute their quota to make our roads safe. 

GNA 

Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba  

President John Dramani Mahama, has opened the 3rd Ghana-EU Business Forum urging donors, investors, and industry leaders to harness the untapped potential of key value chains to drive sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

Organized by the European Union and the Government of Ghana under the theme “Fostering Investment in high growth potential Value Chains under the EU Global Gateway Strategy,” the Forum reaffirmed the shared commitment to diversifying trade and investment beyond traditional sectors. The event aligns with the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, which prioritizes green, digital, and inclusive development partnerships worldwide.

In his keynote address, President Mahama emphasized Ghana’s readiness to pivot toward innovative sectors:

“Ghana is ripe for innovation. When we prioritize investments in non-traditional sectors, we harness the talent of our youth, create jobs, and build resilience against global economic shocks. The EU’s Global Gateway Strategy aligns perfectly with our national vision under the ‘BIG PUSH,’ ensuring growth that benefits all Ghanaians.”

EU Deputy Director-General for International Partnerships, Ms. Myriam Ferran, underscored the urgency of collaboration in critical sectors:

“This year’s theme resonates profoundly in our global context. We will focus on agribusiness, pharmaceutical/health, and energy—three sectors central to societal well-being. By strengthening these value chains, we enhance strategic autonomy while fostering connections between Ghana and Europe.”

During the event, the European Union unveiled transformative initiatives to bolster Ghana’s economy:

1. BETTER FARMING in Northern Ghana to boost the transition towards a sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture. With €19.5 million (co-funded by France and implemented by AFD), the initiative focuses on shea, soya, vegetables, and beekeeping value chains in the Northern, Upper West, Upper East, Savannah, and North East regions.

2. Green, Digital, and Inclusive Private Sector Development to foster a greener, digitalized, and inclusive private sector (including creative industries, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals). With €17.3M (co-funded by the Netherlands and France) and co-implemented by RVO, Expertise France, UNCDF, the project has a focus on Northern Ghana (Tamale).

3. Team Europe Initiative – Investing in Young Businesses in Africa (IYBA) to support early-stage businesses and young entrepreneurs, particularly women, with financial and

technical resources. The project covers 9 African countries with €4 billion for Sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana.

4. AgriFI – Ghana Country Window to strengthen agribusiness value chains, establish six fulfilment centres (aggregation, quality control, logistics) and expand digital platforms with €2.23 million loan via EU and EDFI Management Company for Complete Farmer (agritech firm).

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.

Founder and Leader of Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen

The Founder and Leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, has expressed concern over the recurrent floods in the country, urging politicians to move beyond empty promises and inaction, and deliver real solutions to combat the menace.

In a statement issued on his X page on May 20, 2025, Kyerematen described the recent floods in Accra as a painful reminder of the neglect many communities endure year after year.

“Ghana is tired of ‘No Action, Talk Only’ (NATO). In these difficult moments, I extend my deepest condolences to families who have lost loved ones and my heartfelt support to all affected by the devastating floods across our nation,” he said.

Kyerematen called on the government to confront the recurring floods with urgency, strategic planning, and compassion.

“Let us rise not with sympathy, but with solutions. Together, we can transform Ghana into a nation where no child is drowned by negligence, no family is left homeless by inaction, and no Ghanaian is forgotten,” he added.

At least three people lost their lives following torrential rains that triggered severe flooding across parts of Accra on Sunday, May 18, 2025, displacing many households.

Read the full statement below

JKB/MA

After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:

Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, Managing Director of GACL

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has launched its Internal Audit Awareness Week in line with the global observance of International Internal Audit Awareness Month, held every May.

Themed “Resilient Organisations: The Role of Internal Auditors,” the initiative aims to spotlight the critical role of internal auditors in strengthening corporate governance, performance, and risk management.

At the launch event, Managing Director of GACL, Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, commended the Internal Audit Department for taking the initiative to raise awareness of the profession’s value.

“The Internal Audit team continues to make a significant impact within GACL by enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness,” she said.

“This observance presents a timely opportunity to collaborate more proactively with stakeholders to identify and manage emerging risks.”

Chairman of the Audit Committee, Nana Gyamfi, also addressed the gathering, stressing the need to change public perception of the audit function.

“It’s important to demystify the role of Internal Audit. It’s not about witch-hunting, it’s a vital function that drives organisational growth and enhances performance,” he emphasised.

He praised the department for consistently producing credible reports that guide informed decision-making, and urged GACL management to continue investing in capacity-building.

“Management must provide continuous training and the technological tools necessary to ensure the department maintains its effectiveness,” he added.

Kwaku Owusu Odame, Director of Internal Audit, Compliance, and Risk Management, opened the ceremony with a call for innovation and adaptation.

Quoting management expert Peter Drucker, he said, “Innovate or die.”

He continued, “Internal Audit must evolve with the times to support management in achieving corporate objectives and delivering measurable value.”

Odame acknowledged the persistent gap between stakeholder expectations and the actual mandate of Internal Audit, describing it as a challenge the month-long programme aims to address.

“This awareness campaign offers a valuable opportunity to correct misconceptions and deepen the business community’s understanding of the role Internal Audit plays in ensuring organizational resilience,” he noted.

GACL was recently named the Best State-Owned Enterprise for Enterprise Risk Management Compliance for 2023, an achievement attributed in part to the strength and credibility of its Internal Audit function.

The Internal Audit Awareness Week will feature a series of activities designed to educate staff, stakeholders, and the public on the department’s role in enhancing transparency, accountability, and organisational success.

The recent appreciation of the Ghana Cedi has reignited public debate about pricing practices among businesses operating in Ghana. Consumers, observing the strengthening of the local currency and reductions in fuel prices, are increasingly calling for corresponding price cuts across goods and services. This expectation, while fair from the consumer’s perspective, introduces a complicated dilemma for businesses, many of which are still recovering from the economic shocks of the Cedi’s previous depreciation, inflationary pressures, and supply chain disruptions.

This article argues that marketing offers strategic tools that businesses in Ghana can deploy to manage the complexities of pricing in this new economic climate. Rather than relying solely on financial or operational rationales for price decisions, firms can turn to marketing for insights into value perception, customer engagement, and brand positioning to guide more sustainable and strategic responses.

The Strategic Role of Price in Marketing

Price is not merely a reflection of cost but a core element of a firm’s value proposition and brand strategy. In marketing theory, price serves as a signal of quality, positioning, and brand equity. Products positioned as premium offerings may not benefit from price reductions, as this could dilute brand value or alter consumer perceptions. Conversely, mass-market products may be more sensitive to pricing changes and require different strategies.

Businesses must, therefore, engage their marketing departments when setting or revising prices. Marketing professionals possess the expertise to assess consumer expectations, analyze competitive positioning, and design pricing strategies that align with brand objectives. In the current economic context, this collaboration becomes even more critical.

Value-Based Alternatives to Price Reductions

While consumers are justified in expecting relief from high prices during currency appreciation, immediate price reductions may not be feasible for all businesses. Many firms still face elevated costs from earlier inflation, imported raw material expenses, and accumulated debts incurred during periods of currency instability. Reducing prices too quickly could compromise profitability or disrupt long-term sustainability.

Marketing offers alternative strategies rooted in value delivery. Rather than cutting prices, firms can offer:

Product bundling Combining multiple products at a discounted collective price can create perceived value without altering unit prices.

Bonus quantities

“Buy one, get one free” or “extra 20%” promotions can help customers feel they are receiving more for their money.

Loyalty rewards Implementing or enhancing loyalty programs can deepen customer relationships and increase perceived brand value.

Promotional offers Time-limited discounts or promotional campaigns tied to currency strength can create goodwill and stimulate demand without permanent price changes.

These strategies align with the marketing principle that perceived value—not just price—drives consumer behavior.

The Importance of Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

Effective communication is essential in managing customer expectations during economic transitions. Many customers are aware of macroeconomic indicators such as exchange rates or fuel prices, but may not appreciate the full scope of a business’s cost structure. Operational costs—including rent, wages, taxes, import duties, and financing—may not decline in tandem with currency appreciation.

In this context, transparent communication becomes a strategic asset. Businesses can use various channels—social media, public statements, customer newsletters, and in-store messaging—to explain their pricing rationale.

Marketing plays a key role here by crafting narratives that resonate with customers, educate them about economic realities, and maintain trust.

Stakeholder engagement should also include suppliers, distributors, and regulators. Coordinating with these actors can help businesses better manage cost pressures and explore collaborative solutions to enhance efficiency and affordability.

Long-Term Considerations

Building Brand Equity Through Fairness and Consistency

Pricing decisions made during currency appreciation periods can have long-term implications for brand equity. Customers remember how businesses respond in times of economic relief just as they do during crises. Brands that are perceived as fair, responsive, and transparent are more likely to retain customer loyalty and build reputational capital.

Moreover, consistency in strategic pricing—not reactive changes driven solely by short-term pressures—supports sustainable growth. Businesses that focus on long-term brand positioning, customer relationships, and value creation are better equipped to weather economic fluctuations.

Conclusion

The appreciation of the Ghana Cedi has brought renewed attention to the relationship between macroeconomic conditions and business pricing strategies. While consumer demands for price reductions are understandable, businesses must respond thoughtfully, balancing operational realities with customer expectations.

Marketing provides a strategic framework for addressing this challenge. By leveraging value-based pricing alternatives, engaging in transparent communication, and aligning pricing with brand positioning, firms can navigate these pressures without compromising long-term viability. In doing so, they not only protect their bottom line but also reinforce their commitment to customer satisfaction and market integrity.

Dr. Ibn Kailan Abdul-Hamid

Head of Marketing Department

University of Professional Studies, Accra

[email protected]

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 Dramani Mahama has directed the newly inaugurated National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), along with Parliament, to consolidate all development plans into one clear and inclusive national plan.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 37-member commission chaired by Nii Moi Thompson on Tuesday, May 19, the president said a majority of Ghanaians desire a long-term development agenda that will impact their lives and generations.

“Ghanaians increasingly demand a stable and predictable path for national development that transcends our electoral cycles and partisan politics. Ghana Beyond Aid Charter, Ghana@100 long-term development framework, and the Vision 2057 perspective framework, I urge the Commission to consolidate all these various efforts into a coherent, inclusive and forward-looking national development plan.

“This must be done in close collaboration and consultation with Parliament and the people’s representatives to ensure that the final plan reflects a broad national consensus. And it’s subject to regular review and responds to evolving domestic and global challenges,” he urged.

UTAG-UG demands Auditor-General’s resignation over “unethical” audit report

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File photo representing Ghana’s gold for oil programme

President John Dramani Mahama has acknowledged the impact of the nation’s boosted reserves on the recent stability of the cedi against the US Dollar.

The cedi traded at GH¢14.4 to a dollar at the beginning of the year but it has made a dramatic rebound in the month of May, trading at GH¢12.4 to a dollar this week.

Speaking at the opening of the Ghana–EU Business Forum in Accra, President John Mahama attributed the rebound to the gross international reserves which the previous Akufo-Addo government significantly bequeathed to the present administration.

At the end of 2024 before the President assumed office in January this year, Ghana’s reserves stood at $8.98 billion and the President attributed the gains to the overall improved reserves which now stands at $10.6 billion.

“Our gross international reserves have improved further from $8.98 billion in December 2024 to $10.6 billion by April 2025,” President Mahama said, adding that the continuous improvement of Ghana’s reserves is a good sign of growing investor confidence and external buffers.

Experts have also attributed Ghana’s improved reserves to the country’s timely gold purchasing programme introduced by former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

The policy allowed the Bank of Ghana to buy gold with cedis to improve Ghana’s gold reserves and use it to import oil products instead of depleting the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

This policy helped the bank to boost its reserves within a short time.

AME

In our everyday lives, effective communication is essential to ensure comprehension and build connections. It’s not just about talking but being heard and understood. But sometimes, these things may not come naturally, especially for children. This is where the work of speech and language professionals becomes incredibly important. They play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome communication challenges, which in turn enhances educational opportunities and promotes inclusivity.

One such dedicated professional is Keren Tetteh, a licensed speech and language therapist.

Keren specialises in diagnosing and treating communication disorders, and her work involves a variety of responsibilities.

What sets Keren apart is her holistic approach to therapy. She understands that communication is not just a clinical issue but also has emotional and social dimensions.

Keren is passionate about empowering individuals through effective communication, firmly believing that everyone deserves the chance to express themselves and connect with others.

She is currently working towards her doctorate in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Teachers College, Columbia University.

For her, this journey is not just about earning a degree; it’s an opportunity for her to dive into the fascinating world of communication and discover new therapy techniques that can truly make a difference.

In addition to her studies, Keren teaches part-time at the University of Ghana in the Department of Audiology, Speech and Language Therapy. Here, she shares her passion and expertise with future speech and language therapists, encouraging them to empower others and create positive change in their communities. Keren’s commitment to both her education and her students reflects her dedication to the field and her desire to inspire the next generation of professionals.

Keren’s philosophy centres on the idea that effective communication is a fundamental human right. “When individuals can express themselves, they gain confidence and a sense of agency,” she explains.

Though this empowerment benefits the individual, it also enriches the community as a whole. Keren emphasises that communication goes beyond just words; it includes non-verbal cues, social interactions, and emotional expression.

She believes society can drive greater understanding and collaboration among its members by breaking down communication barriers.

Keren also highlights the broader social and national benefits of communication empowerment. “In a diverse society like ours, effective communication is essential for social cohesion. Articulation is required for needs and ideas to be understood, leading to better relationships and a more inclusive environment.”  

Furthermore, she points out that strong communication skills can drive economic growth, as individuals who can express their thoughts are more likely to succeed in education and the workforce.

Keren’s dedication to her field is evident from her previous role in pediatric Speech and Language clinics, focusing on the health needs of children.

There, she played a vital role in ensuring that children received the support they needed to thrive. Keren, together with these facilities, promote their mission for optimal healthcare and development for all children. Her expertise was instrumental in achieving these goals. She collaborated with families, educators, and healthcare professionals to create comprehensive care plans tailored to each child’s unique needs.

As a licensed speech and language therapist, Keren is also an active member of professional organisations like the Speech Therapists and Audiologists Association of Ghana (STAAG), currently working on some research papers.

Her involvement in these groups reflects her commitment to professional development and advocacy for the field. Keren holds a Master of Science in Speech and Language Therapy from the University of Ghana, Korle-Bu, which has equipped her with the skills necessary to excel in her profession.

The work of speech and language therapists like Keren Tetteh is vital in transforming lives through communication empowerment. They enhance personal well-being and contribute to the social fabric of their communities.

The impact of effective communication extends beyond individual lives, promoting inclusivity, understanding, and driving national progress. For Keren, helping individuals overcome barriers to expression makes her feel fulfilled and drives her passion to achieve a more equitable and connected world.

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 management of the University of Ghana (UG) has rejected the Auditor-General’s Report that says the university overtated its employee compensation by Gh¢59.2 million between 2022 and 2024.

According to the management of thee University the report by the Auditor-General was misleading and attributed the claim to a misinterpretation of its payroll structure.

Explaining the University of Ghana said its payroll operates under two distinct components: the Government of Ghana (GoG) payroll and the Internally Generated Funds (IGF) payroll.

Payments under the IGF, including legally sanctioned contracts for post-retirement academic staff, were lawful and transparent, and not irregular expenditures as suggested in the Auditor-General’s report.

In a statement dated May 16, 2025 and issued by the Registrar, Emelia Agyei-Mensah, the university explained that IGF payments are made from its own revenue streams, not government funds, and are fully compliant with public financial reporting standards and that such payments, therefore, do not fall under the category of disallowances.

UG argued that the Auditor-General’s failure to differentiate between the GoG and IGF payrolls and the decision to aggregate the two created a distorted impression of payroll inflation. The institution maintained that the reported figure does not reflect a loss or misapplication of public funds.

The University further disclosed that between 2021 and 2024, it lost 887 staff members through retirement, resignation, and other separations, yet was only granted clearance to recruit 102 new employees in 2024. With student numbers surging to over 76,000 during the same period, UG resorted to internally funding strategic staff recruitment to uphold academic standards.

The management described the GH¢59.24 million as essential compensation for personnel required to sustain teaching, research, and administration in the face of limited government recruitment support. These interventions, UG said, were consistent with institutional and national financial policies and reflect its innovative response to workforce constraints.

UG also criticised the audit process for not giving the institution the opportunity to respond to preliminary findings, as is standard practice.

Attached below is a copy of the full statement

UG Management Responds to Joy News Report on Auditor-General’s Special Audit Findings

Passengers have lamented the poor condition of buses deployed for daily operations

Management of the Quality Bus Services (QBS), operators of the Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system under the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE), is facing mounting criticism over deteriorating service quality and poorly maintained buses.

Passengers and drivers alike have voiced frustration, accusing the company of mismanaging the once-promising World Bank-funded project, which was launched to improve urban mobility in Accra.

Commuters who spoke to Classfmonline.com at the Central Business District (CBD), CMB terminal behind the Greater Accra Regional Police headquarters, lamented the poor condition of buses deployed for daily operations.

According to them, the Aayalolo buses are no longer serving their intended purpose and have become a shadow of the modern transport system they were meant to represent.

Many complained about unclean buses, foul odours, and non-functional air conditioning systems, particularly during the early morning and evening rush hours when demand is highest.

“Some of the buses come with a terrible smell, and the air conditioning doesn’t work. It’s uncomfortable, especially when the buses are full,” a frustrated commuter told Classfmonline.com.

Drivers who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that the air conditioners in many of the buses have been intentionally disengaged to cut fuel costs, as the high price of diesel continues to strain operations.

“Management says keeping the air conditioners on uses more fuel, so we’ve been instructed to turn them off most of the time,” one driver disclosed.

In addition to the poor state of the buses, concerns were raised about disorderliness at the CMB terminal, particularly during peak hours.

Passengers accused some conductors of favouritism, allowing acquaintances to skip the queue — a situation that causes delays and tension among commuters.

“These days, you have to know someone to get on a bus quickly.

People queue for long hours, only to be bypassed by others with connections,” another passenger complained.

What was once envisioned as a world-class public transport solution is now under scrutiny, with calls mounting for GAPTE and the Ministry of Transport to take urgent steps to restore the integrity and reliability of the Aayalolo BRT system.

Featured

Graphic Online

May – 20 – 2025 , 16:03

2 minutes read