Pyramids FC clinched their maiden TotalEnergies CAF Champions League title with a 2-1 victory over South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in a pulsating second leg final at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo.

Having drawn the first leg 1-1 in Pretoria, the Egyptian side secured a 3-2 aggregate win, becoming the fourth different club from Egypt to win Africa’s most prestigious club competition—joining Al Ahly, Zamalek, and Ismaily in a feat unmatched by any other nation.

Pyramids began with purpose in front of a passionate home crowd, taking the lead in the 23rd minute through their prolific striker Fiston Mayele, who rifled a low shot into the far corner after a clever move on the right side.

The goal marked his ninth in the competition and confirmed his status as one of the key figures in Pyramids’ historic run.

The home side doubled their lead shortly after the restart when defender Ahmed Samy rose highest to head home from a Mohamed Chibi cross in the 56th minute, sending the Cairo crowd into a frenzy.

Despite trailing by two goals, Sundowns showed resilience.

Iqraam Rayners pulled one back for the South African champions in the 75th minute with a composed finish from close range, setting up a tense finale.

Miguel Cardoso’s side pushed forward relentlessly in the final minutes, with Peter Shalulile and Lebo Mothiba both having efforts blocked in a frantic closing stretch that saw 10 minutes of added time.

However, Pyramids held firm, thanks in large part to the heroics of goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy and a composed defensive performance.

The result marks the first time Pyramids have lifted the continental trophy, a decade after the club’s founding.

It also ensures Egypt maintains its hold on African football’s crown for a third consecutive year following Al Ahly’s triumphs in 2023 and 2024.

Meanwhile, it was a night of heartbreak for Sundowns, who were seeking their second CAF title and aiming to become the first side since Al Ahly in 2012 to win after failing to secure a home-leg advantage in the final.

Instead, the Brazilians suffer their second defeat in a Champions League final, 24 years after losing to Al Ahly in 2001.

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Medical tourism, which involves travelling to another country specifically for medical care, when well organised, is a potential revenue source for any nation.

Often driven by lower costs or the availability of treatments not readily accessible in a patient’s home country, the trend has become a global industry, with people from various countries seeking treatments in destinations like India, Turkey, Thailand and Mexico.

While offering potential benefits like cost savings and access to specialised procedures, there are a few potential risks related to language barriers, quality of care and disease transmission to consider.

Out of the passion to effectively promote medical tourism to Africa, particularly here in Ghana with an aim to make the country a hub in West Africa, the African Medical Tourism Council (ATMC) was inaugurated two years ago to lead in the establishment of international networks of healthcare providers, travel agencies and other stakeholders to partner with different countries to share knowledge, exchange best practices and collaborate on research and development to attract medical tourism to the country.

Declaring it as a “national product whose value is buried in the team collaboration of medical facilities, travel support and concierge services, the time has come to establish a centre where the collaborative effort of stakeholders can be coordinated to create a strong, sustainable and successful medical tourism industry,” affirms founding President, Dr. Koby Appiah-Sakyi.

Recently, ATMC partners gathered at the Royal Beulah Hotel in East Legon to strategise on the way forward. PaJohn Dadson takes a look at the outcome of that meeting and what the future holds for the industry in Ghana. 

In Africa, besides South Africa which commands quite a bit of the medical tourist market, the potential for Ghana – in West Africa – is huge, a ready gold mine poised for extraction!

The average spend of Ghana’s 1 million visitor arrivals, besides air transportation in and out, is about US$1200. Juxtapose this with the average spend of a medical tourist which stands at about US$5000.

And this is a very modest estimate. Presently, only about some forty thousand tourists come to Ghana for medical care a year. This can easily be quadrupled to 180k, should Ghana get intentional about promoting that aspect of its tourism.

As was established at the foundation of the African Medical Tourism Council, medical tourism is undoubtedly a potential revenue source for entire countries, and it takes an alliance of government and private sector partners to work together to build this niche industry.

No one company, agency or individual can single-handedly take on the role of promoting the sector sufficiently enough to achieve success for any one country, let alone the entire continent.

In promoting medical tourism, you promote the whole country like we do leisure vacations, and not individual facilities. It, therefore, behoves the government to ensure that a high premium is placed on it as a priority ‘tourism product’. Otherwise, it misses the point.

The point is, aligning the private sector’s credentials and aspirations with government’s policies and plans means government boldly taking on the responsibility of funding a budget for the marketing of Ghana’s tourism products at relevant international fairs and on roadshows will go a long way to help to boost the country’s competitiveness as a medical tourism destination.

In Asia, for instance, of the 15 million tourist arrivals that Thailand – a country that enjoys world-wide reputation for hospitality – receives a year, about 5 million come for health-related tourism.

What started in the 1980s – but really taking off in 1990s – has soared exponentially with, for example, Bumungrad International Hospital alone hosting 1.1 million patients a year.

While the initial focus was on cosmetic surgery, today, they have diversified into all areas of medical care, with the government backing the effort with globally sponsored promotional campaigns like ‘Amazing Thailand’!

BIH works with tour agencies to sell their services across the world – vacation plus medical check up! There is a comprehensive medical concierge service that helps with curating value for the quality and services Thailand provides. In the Asia region, they are the country of choice.

Conversely, here in Ghana, all tourism promotional efforts are of a general leisure recreational appeal. And even that, there seem hardly enough resources available for global campaigns. But, there’s a huge market even within the West Africa sub-region alone that can be targeted.

Currently, Ghanaian patients who can afford it are actually being referred to medical facilities and destinations in Europe and elsewhere. The goal of AMTC is to identify and position medical tourism (MT) development as an important national priority.

“Working together, we do more with less,” states Dr. Koby Appiah-Sakyi, AMTC President, who chaired the Accra stakeholders meeting.

The meeting sought to appraise what has been done so far in the run-up to “making medical tourism a national revenue source in Ghana, the initial focus country of the council”.

Present at the meeting were teams from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) – led by its Corporate Affairs Director, Ghana Investment Promotion Company (GIPC), Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Hotels Association (GHA), Ghana Progressive Hotels Association and a number of key tourism and healthcare agencies.

So far, the AMTC – through its current funding sources of subscriptions and private donations – runs a small office. The meeting highlighted this and opened up for new ideas that would help make better impact through collaboration.

“Besides the need for a video documentary which will tell our story in both English and French, our most pressing need, our primary goal, is to have a place, a ‘centre’ from where we can administer and better coordinate our activities,” notes Dr. Appiah-Sakyi.

Currently recruiting non-medical service partners like allied tourism services, an executive group, to oversee operations has been formed, with a service standard and code of practice for healthcare facilities and non-HC partners even established. So far, a number of key health facility partners have already signed MoUs accepting to adhere to the standards.

The executive committee has already travelled, firstly to Nigeria and then to Turkey, to assess how Ghana compares. There, they found that it is well-designed partnership between government & public/private medical facilities that is bringing significant revenue to Turkey.

That is the path AMTC wants to follow.

In West Africa, Ghana’s healthcare system is generally well-regarded for having made significant strides, especially in a number of state-of-the-art medical facilities offering advanced care and technology.

There’s a lot going for Ghana though. It is a respected nation with quite a reputation as a sturdy democracy with a developed medical care which can attract a ready clientele from within the West African sub-region. All that is needed to be done is a deliberate commitment to present the country as a medical tourism hub to the world.

“We don’t want to work in silos,” emphasises Dr. Appiah-Sakyi. “We need to collaborate, to partner up to achieve our goals. That’s the only way.”

There’s a need to enhance the competitiveness of Ghana as a destination for medical care, as well as augment and expand the capabilities of the nation’s health facilities to provide more complex care that meet the needs of Africans travelling to Europe and Asia for care.

Ultimately, we must work to support the building and development of new world-class medical facilities similar to the ones providing care in Asia & South Africa, and develop sustained and effective marketing strategies to promote them.

Abuja, Jun. 2, (dpa/GNA) – The number of people killed due to severe flooding in the Nigerian city of Mokwa has risen to 150, emergency services said on Sunday following days of rescue efforts.

The floods swept the central market city on Wednesday following hours of heavy rain. More than 50 houses were destroyed and their residents swept away by the water.

Due to the difficulty of the rescue operation, the full extent of the disaster only became clear days later, with further victims located during search efforts on Saturday.

How many people are still missing initially remained unclear.

Deaths from flooding are common in the West African nation. At the end of last year, more than 600 people died in floods across several of Nigeria’s 36 states and 1.3 million were left homeless.

GNA

PDC

Nations Football Club has issued a strongly worded statement explaining its decision to discontinue its matchday 33 Ghana Premier League match against Basake Holy Stars on June 1, 2025.

The club cited “a series of unacceptable incidents that undermined the integrity of the game and the safety of our personnel.”

In the statement, Nations FC detailed several grievances, beginning with the level of officiating, which they described as “extremely poor and well below the expected standards.”

The club said the situation “compromised the fairness and credibility of the match, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the competition.”

The club also reported an attack on senior executives, stating: “Our President, Mr. Divine Kyei Boadu, and Chairman, Dr. Kwame Kyei, were physically assaulted by home supporters. This hostile and violent conduct created an unsafe environment for our players, technical team, and officials.”

Security arrangements were also called into question. Nations FC noted that pre-match agreements had stipulated the deployment of 70 police officers for adequate coverage, “however, fewer than 20 officers were present on the day, leaving our team and supporters vulnerable and exposed.”

Supporters of the club were not spared from the ordeal. “Despite holding valid match tickets, our fans were unjustly denied entry into the stadium,” the statement added. “This act of discrimination and disrespect is unacceptable and contrary to the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship.”

Concerns were also raised over the treatment of club media personnel. “Our accredited club videographer, who had full authorization from the Ghana Football Association, was prevented from recording the match by both supporters and officials of the home team, with the apparent support of the Match Commissioner.”

In concluding, the club called on the Ghana Football Association and all relevant stakeholders “to investigate these incidents and take the appropriate disciplinary and regulatory measures.” It urged that “the safety, dignity, and fairness owed to every club, official, and supporter must be upheld at all times.”

The Communications Department signed off the statement, describing the decision to halt the game as “difficult,” but necessary under the circumstances.

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James Kwabena Bomfeh and Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor

Accusations and counteraccusations erupted as the Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Citizenship, Constitutional and Electoral Systems (CenCES), James Kwabena Bomfeh, clashed over public commentary related to ongoing and past legal matters.

The heated exchange occurred during a discussion on Joy Newsfile on May 31,2025, sparked by Bomfeh’s recent criticism of comments made by political figures, including Dafeamekpor, concerning the recent arrest of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

Bomfeh argued that some of these remarks risked creating misleading impressions that could unduly influence public perception of the case.

In response, Dafeamekpor accused Bomfeh of hypocrisy, citing statements he allegedly made during the controversial Alfred Woyome judgement debt case in 2015.

According to Dafeamekpor, Bomfeh had suggested at the time that only a future Akufo-Addo government could recover the Woyome funds, a claim he said undermined the efforts of the then NDC government.

“Bomfeh said my comments amount to creating bad impressions. But in 2015, when I was part of the Woyome legal team, he told the NDC we were not capable of recovering the money. Even though the case was in court, he said it would take Nana Akufo-Addo’s government to recover it. What impression was he creating then”, Dafeamekpor indicated.

Bomfeh denied making such a statement, clarifying that his criticism at the time was directed at what he described as the government’s unwillingness to act decisively on the matter, not its inability.

“It is not true that I said the NDC was not capable. I said the government then was unwilling and was not ready”, he said

The back-and-forth intensified as Dafeamekpor pressed further, insisting that Bomfeh’s comments in 2015 had the same effect he was now criticising in relation to the Wontumi case.

Bomfeh rejected that claim, calling it a fabrication.

MRA/EB

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

The delegation was received at the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences (SNAS)

The Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Environment, Science and Technology, Yaw Frimpong Addo, has described the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) as the “epicentre of solutions” to many of Ghana’s developmental challenges.

He expressed both optimism and concern after listening to a presentation on GAEC’s work in nuclear science and its wide-ranging applications across health, agriculture, water resource management, oil and gas, energy, telecommunications, and industry.

“GAEC is the epicentre of solutions to many of our national problems. I cringed when I heard the presentations on your mandate, research outcomes, and technologies, because despite the solutions available, the Commission is not receiving the support it deserves,” Addo said.

He cited, for instance, how a nuclear facility in another country is used to preserve bananas for up to six months without spoilage, contrasting it with Ghana’s persistent post-harvest losses despite having similar facilities.

Addo, who is also the Member of Parliament for Manso Adubia, made these remarks last Friday during a working visit by the Committee to the Commission’s headquarters at Kwabenya in Accra.

The visit formed part of the Committee’s oversight responsibilities and aimed to deepen engagement with scientific institutions to support national development.

The delegation was received at the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences (SNAS), where a comprehensive presentation highlighted GAEC’s contributions to solving real-world problems through the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology.

Following the briefing, the Committee toured several of GAEC’s laboratories and research facilities. Members were also shown portions of the Commission’s land currently under threat from encroachment.

At one of the affected sites, the Committee expressed deep concern over the illegal activities of land guards, who had taken over parts of the Commission’s land and begun constructing buildings. The land guards fled upon seeing the Committee members and the military personnel accompanying them.

With military support, the Committee oversaw the dismantling of some unauthorised structures and confiscated construction equipment found at the site. The Committee pledged continued support to the Commission in protecting its lands and addressing the encroachment menace.

During an interaction with staff, GAEC raised concerns about inadequate funding and limited revenue generation due to the standardised Fees and Charges regime set by Parliament. This framework, they noted, prevents the Commission from charging commercial rates for critical services.

In response, Addo assured GAEC of the Committee’s readiness to address the issue.

“If the Commission cannot get the financial support it needs through direct government allocation, then it is necessary to take a second look at the Fees and Charges structure applicable to GAEC,” he stated.

He also urged GAEC to intensify its public education and stakeholder engagement efforts to raise awareness of its innovations and attract broader support.

“Let people know what GAEC is doing. If someone out there needs your services and doesn’t know you exist, that’s a problem,” Addo emphasised.

He encouraged the Commission to maintain close communication with Parliament, particularly when drafting science-related policies, and pledged the Committee’s continued support.

“If you’re developing science-related policies or need legislative backing, just prompt us. The onus lies on us to champion the cause of GAEC and other scientific institutions. Our doors are open. We need more engagement and collaboration to fast-track the country’s development.”

The Ranking Member of the Committee, Professor Hamza Adam, who is also the MP for Kumbungu, commended GAEC for its work and called for renewed attention to the challenges facing the Commission.

He stressed the vital role of science in national development but noted that its appreciation remains low—even among some Members of Parliament.

Professor Adam attributed this gap to the technical nature of scientific research, which can be difficult for non-scientists to understand and grasp. He therefore urged GAEC to simplify its communication and make its work more accessible.

“Science must be communicated in a way that people can connect with. When the public and decision-makers understand its value, they are more likely to support it,” he said.

Established in 1963, GAEC is Ghana’s foremost institution for nuclear science research and its application to sustainable development. Its work spans key areas including radiotherapy and cancer treatment, food security and preservation, water quality assessment, and clean energy research.

Accra Hearts of Oak dispatched relegated Legon Cities with a 2-0 win at the University of Ghana Stadium on Sunday.

With Cities relegated and Hearts of Oak’s title ambitions over, Sunday’s fixture was expected to be a bore but it was anything but.

The game’s first opening came after just six minutes when Kwesi Asmah picked out Kwabena Boateng, but the forward’s finish missed just wide.

Nine minutes later, the Phobians went close again when the industrious Asmah was brought down on the edge of the area. But Hussein Mohammed’s cross from the free kick was wasted.

Before long, however, the Phobians made amends when Kwabena Boateng rose highest to head home Raphael Amponsah’s corner in the 20th minute.

The goal seemed to jolt Legon Cities into action but their lack of intensity proved to be their ondoing.

Unsurprisingly, frustration set in when Takyi Alabah was shown a yellow card for fouling Kwesi Asmah in the 28th minute.

On the half hour mark, Legon Cities Frank Akoto made a desperate interception to stop Hussein Mohammed’s goal-bound cross.

Just before half-time, Cities went forward through Kwesi Gyesi but his effort from distance was well gathered by Hearts keeper, Sharif Shuaib.

After the interval, Cities started with more verve as Gyesi and Albert Yeboah moved the ball with more urgency and precision. However, their influence was limited by the lack of intensity from the rest of the team.

Three minutes into the second half, Cities were punished again when Michael Awuah Mensah pounced on a loose ball to slot home the second.

What followed was an exercise in containment as Hearts protected their lead while Cities did their best to limit the damage.

Hearts of Oak remain in 5th place for the third consecutive week despite the win.

The Phobians will end the season with a home match against Samartex 1996 while Cities host Dreams F.C. on the final day of the season.

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Accra Hearts of Oak continued their impressive late-season revival with a comfortable 2-0 win over relegated Legon Cities on Sunday at the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon. The result marked their third consecutive victory and kept their hopes of finishing in the top four of the Ghana Premier League alive.

The Phobians looked confident and composed throughout the match, dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities. Facing a Legon Cities side already confirmed for relegation, Hearts made their quality count.

Kwabena Boateng opened the scoring midway through the first half, finishing off a slick attacking move to put the visitors ahead. Hearts remained in control after the break and doubled their lead in the second half through Michael Awuah, who calmly slotted home to seal all three points.

Hearts of Oak have shown remarkable improvement in recent weeks after a difficult run of form earlier in the season. With this latest win, they now sit just two points behind fourth place heading into the final round of matches.

Their final game will be a challenging one at the Accra Sports Stadium against league leaders Samartex. However, the Phobians will be hopeful of ending the season on a high note and possibly securing a top-four finish.

As for Legon Cities, the defeat only adds to a disappointing campaign that has seen them relegated to Division One. They will round off their season with a fixture against Dreams FC before officially bidding farewell to the top flight.

By Stanley Senya

Accra, June 1, GNA – The Chairman of Parliament’s Select Committee on Environment, Science, and Technology, Mr. Yaw Frimpong Addo, has hailed the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) as a national asset with untapped potential to address Ghana’s developmental challenges.

Describing GAEC as “the epicentre of solutions,” Mr. Addo said the Commission’s work in nuclear science and its wide-ranging applications, from agriculture and healthcare to energy, water management, oil and gas, and telecommunications positioned it as a key driver of national progress.

“I cringed during the presentation, not because GAEC lacks solutions, but because it lacks the support it truly deserves,” Mr. Addo remarked during a working visit to the Commission at Kwabenya in Accra.

Citing global examples, he pointed out how other countries use nuclear technology to preserve perishables like bananas for up to six months, while Ghana continues to grapple with post-harvest losses despite having similar capabilities.

The Committee’s visit formed part of its oversight responsibilities and aimed to foster deeper engagement with scientific institutions to support policy formulation and national development.

The delegation toured laboratories at the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences (SNAS) and was briefed on GAEC’s innovations and ongoing projects. Members also visited parts of GAEC’s land currently under threat from encroachment.

While on the site, they encountered illegal construction by land guards, who fled upon the arrival of the Committee and accompanying military officers. Some unauthorised structures were dismantled, and construction equipment seized.

The Committee pledged to support GAEC in safeguarding its lands and urged stronger law enforcement to deter future encroachments.

During an interaction with staff, GAEC raised concerns over inadequate funding and the restrictive Fees and Charges regime mandated by Parliament, which limits the Commission’s ability to generate revenue through commercial services.

Mr. Addo acknowledged the issue and assured the Commission of the Committee’s willingness to advocate for policy revisions.

“If direct government support falls short, we must revisit the current fees structure. GAEC should be allowed to charge market rates for specialised services,” he said.

He also encouraged GAEC to step up public education and stakeholder outreach to raise awareness about its work.

“If someone out there needs your services but doesn’t know you exist, that’s a missed opportunity,” Mr. Addo noted.

The Committee Chair urged GAEC to maintain open communication with Parliament, especially when drafting science-related legislation.

He reiterated Parliament’s readiness to support the Commission’s mandate and legislative needs.

“Our doors are open. If you need backing on science policy, reach out. We must work together to fast-track Ghana’s development,” he said.

Professor Hamza Adam, Ranking Member of the Committee and MP for Kumbungu, praised GAEC’s contributions but lamented the low appreciation of science among the public and some lawmakers.

He attributed this gap to the technical nature of research, urging GAEC to simplify its communication.

“Science must be accessible. When people understand its relevance, they are more likely to support it,” he said.

Founded in 1963, GAEC is Ghana’s premier institution for nuclear research and its peaceful application. Its work spans radiotherapy, cancer treatment, food preservation, water quality testing, and clean energy development.

GNA

Edited by Christian Akorlie

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Gifty Owusu-Amoah

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Jun – 01 – 2025 , 16:43

2 minutes read

Accra, June 1, GNA- Mr Samuel George, the Minister of Communication, Digitalisation Technology and Innovation, has urged the three telecommunications companies in the country to improve quality of service or face sanctions as stipulated in the Ministry’s mandate. 

He said the government would ensure that 40 per cent to 50 per cent of the sanction, which was in the form of fines, would be shared with the customers by way of either data or call time on their networks.  

The Minister said this in Accra at a meeting with Chief Executives of the three telecommunications companies in the country. 

Mr Stephen Blewelt, Chief Executive of MTN Ghana; Mr Skarlator Leo, Chief Executive of AirtelTigo; and Mr Mohamad Ghaddar, Chief Operating Officer of Telecel attended the meeting. 

The meeting was at the back of a survey conducted by the National Communications Authority on customer satisfaction from the telcos in the country. 

The survey was conducted in the first quarter of the year, covering 48 localities. 

The report, among others, revealed that most customers were not happy with the quality of services being rendered to them by the telcos. 

He said the government was currently in negotiations with a strategic partner to revamp and take over AirtelTigo. 

“We have started those conversations; we are doing a 60-day window for the completion of those negotiations so that by the end of the third quarter, we could see a full rollout of the improved services on AirtelTigo.” 

Mr George announced that the cabinet was giving approval for spectrum to be offered to Telecel and MTN as well to improve their quality of services to the public. 

“We are hoping by the end of September 2025, we will want to see the start of the utilisation of the spectrum resources that have been given, and by the end of December 2025, we will want to see a remarkable increase in quality of service.” 

On the issue of data pricing, the Minister said the government had set up a committee in February to develop a roadmap that would lead to the reduction in data before the end of December 2025. 

“However, we will do this so that we do not create a shock in the ecosystem that affects the planning and viability of investment in the industry. 

“We are not going to do this as a one-time shock. It’s going to be a staggered approach to achieving what we want to do until we have a first move on value,” he said. 

He said the government would be very happy to see some improvement on the three variables – price, value, and quality – of the three telcos. 

Mr George announced that in the first week of July, he would brief the country on value for money from the perspectives of the telcos.  

“An announcement will be made on increased value across all bundle offerings that the network operators give to ensure that Ghanaians get more value for what they are paying,” he said. 

He said the government was committed to resetting the sector by ensuring that the right things were done. 

“You will remain profitable for those who are profitable. For those who are loss-making, you will become profitable because when people get a better experience, they will spend more,” he said. 

The Chief Executives acknowledged the importance of the meeting in charting the path forward towards improving the sector. 

They pledged to work assiduously to address the challenges in the sector and meet the deadlines set by the Ministry to improve quality of service. 

GNA 

Edited by Christian Akorlie  

Fuel prices are projected to fall between 5% and 9% in the first pricing window of June, offering relief to consumers amid persistent inflationary pressures.

The forecast, released by the Africa Sustainable Energy Centre (ASEC), attributes the expected drop largely to the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar.

According to ASEC’s latest market assessment, petrol is expected to retail between GHS 12.00 and GHS 12.60 per litre, while diesel could sell for between GHS 12.60 and GHS 13.20 per litre during the upcoming pricing window.

Ghana’s fuel pricing mechanism is adjusted biweekly and reflects changes in global oil prices, exchange rates, and import costs.

While global crude oil prices have dipped—from about $85 per barrel in January to roughly $64 currently—the cedi’s strengthening has had a more immediate impact on local pump prices.

“Because petroleum imports are dollar-denominated, a stronger cedi means lower procurement costs for oil marketing companies, which should translate into reduced prices at the pumps,” ASEC said in a statement.

The anticipated reduction is expected to ease transportation costs and overall inflation, offering short-term respite for households and businesses. However, ASEC cautioned that falling oil prices could put pressure on government revenue.

As a net exporter of crude oil, Ghana relies heavily on international oil prices to support foreign exchange inflows and budgetary funding. With Brent crude now down more than 24% since the start of the year, the government risks earning less from petroleum-related exports.

“Unless these declines are purely exchange rate-driven, lower global prices typically result in reduced state revenue. The government may need to ramp up production volumes to offset shortfalls,” ASEC noted.

Looking ahead, the think tank projects that global crude oil prices could remain in the $62–$65 per barrel range, driven by higher output from OPEC+ producers and softening demand from major economies like the U.S. and China.

ASEC said it will continue monitoring market trends and provide evidence-based insights to guide policy. It also urged the government to balance consumer relief with long-term strategies for energy security and fiscal resilience.

Fuel prices remain a critical economic indicator in Ghana, influencing inflation, cost of living, and industrial activity.

While the expected drop in pump prices may be temporary, it signals a positive turn in economic sentiment as the country navigates its recovery path.

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a strong warning to the public following a rise in cyberbullying, harassment, and blackmail linked to unlicensed mobile loan applications operating in Ghana.

The Authority revealed that from January to May 2025, it received 377 complaints relating to such digital lending platforms—a significant jump from 228 cases reported in all of 2024.

The CSA attributes the increase to the aggressive recovery methods used by these unauthorised loan apps, which frequently flout data protection regulations and consumer rights.

Many of these platforms operate outside Ghana’s legal and regulatory frameworks and are not under the supervision of the Bank of Ghana or relevant financial authorities.

According to the CSA, users are often offered unsolicited loans, and when they are unable to repay on time, the apps resort to harassment.

Victims report receiving threats of defamation, blackmail, and intimidation.

In several instances, private information—including photos, contact lists, and messages—has been extracted from users’ devices and shared with third parties, friends, or family members as a form of coercion.

“These apps operate without legal backing and often disregard consumer protection laws. Engaging with them exposes users to serious risks, including data breaches, harassment, and financial loss,” the CSA warned in an official statement.

The Authority has so far identified 48 of these so-called “rogue loan apps”, many of which are still active in the Ghanaian digital space. Some of the blacklisted platforms include Miniloan, Devtage Loan, Mix Loan, Ozzy Money-Cash, Plus Cash Arrow, Cash Arrow, FundsCredit, Lever Credit, GetLoan, Upper Loan, Kcash, BestLoan, Gcash, DaraLoan, Loanbase, TapLoan, Gh Loans, Sune Loans, Urgent Money, SparkLoan, SkyLoan, Loancloudgh, and Pea Money, among others.

The CSA is advising users to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of any loan service before engaging with it. Users are also encouraged to read app permissions carefully before installation, especially when granting access to contacts, media, and other personal data.

As part of its public protection measures, the Authority has activated its 24-hour cyber incident response platform, through which victims or concerned users can report suspicious digital activity.

Ghanaians are urged to remain vigilant and avoid interacting with loan apps not regulated by the Bank of Ghana or listed under approved financial service providers. The CSA says it is working with other relevant institutions to remove these apps and hold developers accountable.

For support or to report abuse, users can contact the CSA’s incident reporting lines or visit their official website.

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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.

A photo of the Tamale International Airport

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) have jointly announced an extension of operational hours for Prempeh I International Airport (PIA) in Kumasi and Tamale International Airport (TIA), effective today, June 1, 2025.

The update was announced in a statement issued by the two aviation bodies.

“Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Ghana Airports Company Limited wish to inform the general public about the extension of operational hours at Prempeh I International Airport (PIA), Kumasi and Tamale International Airport (TIA) with effect from June 1, 2025,” the statement said.

Specifically, Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi will now operate from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, while Tamale International Airport’s new operational hours will be from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

In light of these expanded hours, the GCAA and GACL have urged domestic airlines to increase their flight frequencies to and from both airports.

The public is also advised to take note of these changes and plan their travel accordingly.

Read the full statement below: :

JKB/VPO

Watch as Paul Adom Otchere offers advice to NDC footsoldiers

The Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF), in a bid to promote physical fitness and sports development among security personnel, has met with the leadership of the Ghana National Fire Service in Accra to discuss a partnership in the development and promotion of armwrestling within the service.

The GAF, led by its President, Charles Osei Asibey, made its intentions known during a strategic meeting with the Acting Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong. The engagement focused on strengthening the presence of armwrestling within the security services, with an emphasis on promoting inclusive participation for both civilians and uniformed personnel.

The two organisations agreed to work together to identify and nurture talented firefighters with potential in armwrestling. The Fire Service will form an Armwrestling Club that will provide expert coaching and sports psychology guidance to help athletes develop their skills and become champions. This initiative is expected to not only improve physical fitness among firefighters but also promote teamwork and community engagement.

“We are excited about this partnership and its potential to promote armwrestling development within the Fire Service,” said Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong. “We believe that armwrestling will help our personnel develop the strength, endurance, and agility needed to perform their duties effectively.”

Madam Daniella further directed that the Human Resource Department and Sports Unit of the Fire Service immediately engage with the Ghana Armwrestling Federation to recruit fire officers to participate in the sport. “We want to ensure that our personnel are fit and ready to combat or prevent fires at all times,” she emphasised.

Recalling the Fire Service’s past achievements in sports, Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong added, “We have produced quality national athletes in the past, and we will revisit the past by ensuring our officers participate in armwrestling. We are confident that our personnel will excel in this sport and bring glory to the Ghana National Fire Service and the nation.”

The Chief Fire Officer concluded, “With this partnership, we will produce world champions soon, and this will change the image and narrative of the Ghana National Fire Service. We will show the world that we are not just firefighters, but also champions in sports.”

President Charles Osei Asibey of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation added, “This partnership is a significant step towards promoting armwrestling in Ghana. We are confident that the Fire Armwrestling Club will produce talented athletes who will make us proud on the national and international stage.”

In recognition of her support for sports development and inclusive engagement, Acting Chief Fire Officer Ntow Sarpong was officially named a Patron of the Federation and presented with commemorative medals.

The visit marks a significant step in deepening collaboration between the Ghana Armwrestling Federation and national security institutions, using the sport as a platform for unity, empowerment, and national cohesion.

Present were Vice President Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, Secretary General Jesse Agyepong, Board Members Edwin Amankwah, Husseini Akuetteh Addy, Godfrey Amarteifio, and media consultant Kenneth Odeng Adade.

Source: www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

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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.

Zoomlion Ghana Limited (ZGL), a leading waste management company under the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), continues to make significant strides in expanding its footprint in Africa.

Recently, the company has signed a Waste Management and Processing Concession Agreement with Lagos, Nigeria, and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, solidifying its commitment to sustainable waste management and environmental conservation.

Lagos, Nigeria

In a major breakthrough, Zoomlion Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of ZGL, signed a Waste Management and Processing Concession Agreement with the Lagos State Government on May 26, 2025.

This Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative aims to transform the Lagos State’s waste management landscape, creating around 5,000 jobs

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Executive Chairman of JGC, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, formalised the partnership at the State House in Alausa, Ikeja, Nigeria.

This collaboration will see the development of two pivotal facilities: a material recovery plant and a waste recycling plant. These installations will be crucial in integrating Lagos into a modern and sustainable waste management framework.

Lagos State currently generates approximately 13,000 tonnes of waste daily. Key components of the agreement include the construction of Transfer Loading Stations (TLS) at the Olusosun Dumpsite in Ketu and Solous III Dumpsite in Igando.

The TLS at Olusosun will divert 2,500 tonnes of waste daily to a new Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Ikorodu, while the TLS at Solous III will divert 1,500 tonnes daily to a new MRF in Badagry. Additionally, self-tipping tricycles will be deployed to enhance waste collection in hard-to-reach areas across the metropolis. All projects are slated for completion within 18 months.

Governor Sanwo-Olu hailed the agreement as a “turning point” in the state’s waste management journey, emphasising that it would create over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs and enhance the operations of PSP waste operators.

“Today, we have witnessed the official commencement of a mutually beneficial relationship between a forward-looking private company and a committed public sector,” he said.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, described the project as a major milestone, marking the state’s transition to a circular waste economy.

“We can now begin to generate wealth from what we previously discarded,” Wahab indicated.

Kinshasa, DRC

On the same day, May 26, 2025, Zoomlion also inked another MoU with the City of Kinshasa, DRC to collaborate on a project focused on the collection, transportation, recovery, and conversion of municipal and other forms of waste into valuable products.

This partnership is expected to generate approximately 5,000 jobs in Kinshasa’s waste management value chain.

The Provincial Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development for the Province of Kinshasa, Hon. Léon Mulumba Mwana Nshiya, initialled on behalf of the City of Kinshasa.

“This agreement is a symbol of our strong will and unwavering commitment to build a cleaner, greener Kinshasa,” Hon. Léon Mulumba Mwana Nshiya stated.

The Jospong delegation was led by Mr. Daniel Amuyaw Addo, who expressed great enthusiasm about the partnership.

“This signing ceremony reaffirms Jospong’s dedication to providing innovative and integrated waste management solutions to Kinshasa. We are grateful to all stakeholders who contributed to defining the scope of this strategic partnership,” he noted.

He presented a token of appreciation to H.E. Daniel Bumba Lubaki, the Governor of Kinshasa, as a gesture of goodwill.

In his closing remarks, the Governor emphasised the continental importance of the project, stating, “I strongly believe this project will not only improve the environmental well-being of Kinshasa but will stand as a model to project the name of Africa on the global map.”

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Furthermore, the waste management giant signed an MoU with the Addis Ababa City Council on May 29, 2025, to establish an Integrated Waste Management Infrastructure in the Ethiopian capital.

The agreement will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of existing waste management facilities, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable environment for Addis Ababa.

Under the MoU, Zoomlion will invest in the development, construction, and operation of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) for the purpose of recovering, sorting, and recycling materials extracted from various waste streams, set up Compact/Mobile Transfer Loading Stations for efficient transfer and management of waste within designated areas and be granted the exclusive right to manage, operate, and maintain the established projects for a defined period.

Upon completion, the integrated waste management facility will not only create around 5,000 new jobs and improve sanitation standards but also contribute significantly to Ethiopia’s broader environmental conservation goals

Speaking at the signing ceremony, representatives from both parties underscored the importance of the partnership in addressing urban waste challenges.

The Deputy Mayor and General Manager of Addis Ababa City, Hon. Eng. Wendimu Seta, explained that this partnership represented a major milestone toward a cleaner and more sustainable Addis Ababa.

According to him, with Jospong Group’s expertise and dedication, the city can look forward to a more efficient and environmentally friendly waste management system.

The parties indicated that further details on the implementation timeline and specific projects under the MoU will be announced soon.

By James Amoh Junior, GNA

Accra, June 1, GNA – The Network of Professional Women in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WiWASH) has commemorated Menstrual Hygiene Day with a sensitization and donation exercise at the Alogboshie Cluster of Schools, urging stakeholders to work towards a more period-friendly Ghana.

WiWASH called for the creation of a Period-Friendly Ghana where girls could manage their periods with dignity, safety, and confidence.

The event was held in collaboration with Ghana Water Ltd. (GWL) and focused on education, advocacy, and the donation of menstrual hygiene materials to support over 200 schoolgirls.

Each year, WiWASH identifies underprivileged schools and empowers young girls through menstrual hygiene education, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to manage their health with dignity.

The initiative also provides essential support by donating sanitary products, books, stationery, soaps, and food items to help create a more conducive learning environment and improve the overall well-being of the students.

Since 2018, the network has reached thousands of girls in underserved areas including Wa, Ashaiman, Kpeve, Bortianor, Weija, and Ngleshie Amanfrom with donations and menstrual health education.

Mrs Faustina Boachie, President of WiWASH, whose speech was read on her behalf by Mrs. Perpetua Asomani, WiWASH Organiser and Chief Manager of Lands and Estates at GWL, highlighted the importance of addressing the shame and silence surrounding menstruation.

She stated that every girl had a right to manage her period safely and confidently, stressing that menstruation was a healthy and natural part of life and not a subject for ridicule or embarrassment.

Mrs Boachie, also the Chief Manager of the Low Income Consumer Support Department of GWL, called on society — particularly boys and men — to be part of the broader conversation on menstrual health.

She added that schools must become safe spaces where girls felt comfortable discussing menstrual hygiene without fear of being teased or sidelined.

The WiWASH President urged teachers and caregivers to serve as the first line of support, offering empathy, education, and encouragement to girls.

According to her, building a Period Friendly Ghana meant ensuring that no girl was left behind because of her period.

She explained that this could only be achieved when schools were equipped with appropriate WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) facilities, provided with the right information, and when myths and misconceptions about menstruation were actively challenged.

“Let’s break the silence and end the shame. Together, we can build a Ghana where every girl feels proud of her body, every boy shows respect, and every child can learn, grow, and dream without barriers,” Mrs Boachie advised.

Mrs. Cynthia Aboni, Okaikwei North Municipal Director of Education, expressed concern about the widespread misinformation and shame that still surrounded menstruation in schools and communities.

She said many girls in Ghana were still denied their right to education because of lack of access to menstrual products or sanitary facilities.

Mrs Aboni applauded WiWASH for its commitment to supporting schools and called on other stakeholders — NGOs, government institutions, and the private sector — to join in the effort to make menstrual hygiene a national priority.

She emphasized that empowering girls to manage their periods properly was not just a health issue, but a matter of educational equity and national development.

According to Mrs. Aboni, the lack of basic infrastructure in schools, such as access to water, changing rooms, and sanitary pad banks, posed major obstacles for menstruating students.

She noted that the situation at Alogboshie Basic School was a perfect example of how underserved schools were being left behind despite being located in the capital city.

She urged WiWASH and partners to sustain and expand their support to more schools across the municipality, adding, “Let us work together to build a Ghana where girls feel proud, not ashamed, during their periods; where no girl has to miss school because of menstruation.”

Mrs. Eunice D. Yidana, Headteacher of Alogboshie One Basic School, noted that although the school had a washroom facility, there was no running water, no changing room, and no library to support health education, making it difficult for girls to manage their periods in school.

She explained that as a result of these challenges, many girls either stayed home during their periods or left school mid-day and never return, creating gaps in their academic performance and confidence.

Mrs. Yidana said while the school tried to do its part through its guidance and counselling units, much more support was needed, calling on government agencies, NGOs and other benevolent organisations to the deprived school.

Mrs. Solace Akomeah, Executive Secretary of WiWASH, who led a panel discussion on demystifying menstruation and ending “Period Poverty”, said the issue of menstrual hygiene was directly linked to the broader goal of empowering young women.

She said period poverty was still prevalent in many parts of the country, and its consequences— such as infections and school absenteeism — could not be ignored.

Mrs Akomeah, also the Accra West Communication Manager of GWL, explained that some girls, and even adult women, use improvised materials during menstruation because they could not afford sanitary pads, exposing them to reproductive health risks.

She emphasized that the annual Menstrual Hygiene Day celebration was not a one-off event, but part of WiWASH’s long-term mission to empower girls.

Mrs Akomeah condemned certain cultural practices that prevented menstruating girls from going to school or crossing rivers.

“These harmful practices must stop. We want to see a Ghana where girls are bold, healthy, and empowered — where menstruation does not define their ability to succeed,” she stated.

GNA

Edited by Christian Akorlie

File photo of a handcuff

Sun, 1 Jun 2025
Source: GNA

Source: GNA

Prince Henry Ankrah is the Deputy CEO in charge of Operations at Ghana Shippers’ Authority

The Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations at the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA), Prince Henry Ankrah, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to facilitating the formulation of policies tailored to the needs of all stakeholders in the shipping and logistics sector.

He emphasized that the Ghana Shippers’ Authority seeks to effectively regulate the commercial shipping industry for the mutual benefit of both shippers and shipping service providers in the country.

This mandate is supported by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).

Prince Henry Ankrah made this announcement when the GSA was honored at the maiden edition of the Maritime and Logistics Awards, held in Accra.

He noted that the recognition reinforces the Authority’s dedication to serving Ghana more effectively.

“This recognition highlights the GSA’s commitment to facilitating the formulation of enabling policies tailored to the needs of all players in the shipping and logistics sector, while ensuring their implementation,” he stated.

“As evidenced by its pivotal role in the promulgation of Act 1122 in 2024, the GSA aims to effectively regulate the commercial shipping industry for the mutual good of shippers and shipping service providers, ultimately benefiting Ghana,” he added.

On behalf of the CEO of GSA, Professor Ransford Gyampo, as well as the management and staff, Prince Henry Ankrah expressed gratitude to the organizers for the recognition.

The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA), a key institution in Ghana’s maritime industry, was established in 1974 under NRCD 254.

Its primary mission is to protect and promote the interests of shippers and shipping service providers in Ghana by facilitating mutual consultation among shippers, shipowners, carriers, and other providers of shipping services.

Additionally, it ensures collaboration between carriers’ agents and shipping service providers on matters relevant to shippers and the industry.

Through these efforts, the Authority aims to foster a competitive and viable commercial shipping environment, supporting Ghana’s economy while shielding industry players from unfair commercial practices.

SA

By Michael Foli Jackidy 

Ho (V/R), June 1, GNA – The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Vaccine Institute (NVI), Dr. Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, has affirmed the Institute’s readiness to collaborate with the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in vaccine manufacturing and research. 

Speaking as guest speaker at the Second Session of the Ninth Congregation of UHAS on Saturday, May 31, Dr. Sodzi-Tettey noted that while Ghana’s current focus is on producing existing vaccines, greater investment is needed in the development of new vaccines to combat emerging pathogens and future pandemics. 

“This is where institutions like UHAS are essential. We must prioritise vaccine research and development to stay ahead of future public health threats,” he said. 

He recounted a recent visit he led alongside a delegation from the European Union and GIZ-NVI partners to meet with the UHAS Vice Chancellor and her Vaccine Research and Development team. 

“To put it mildly, we were all deeply impressed,” he said. “The visit spurred the mobilisation of initial support to strengthen R&D capacity under the EU-funded PharmaVax project.” 

Dr. Sodzi-Tettey said the NVI, under the Team Europe framework, continues to work with EU partners and other stakeholders to enhance Ghana’s vaccine research infrastructure, adding that UHAS’s human capital would be vital to national vaccine goals. 

He encouraged graduates to stay grounded in their values: 
“You will always face choices. Choose the path that aligns with your values, even if it is harder—it is the path of excellence.” 

Vice Chancellor Prof. Lydia Aziato announced the introduction of several new academic programmes for the 2024/2025 academic year. 

These include: Doctor of Medical Laboratory Sciences (6-year undergraduate), Bachelor of Health Service Administration (4-year undergraduate), Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Psychology with options in Clinical Psychology, Neuropsychology, and Counselling Psychology (6-year track), MPhil Midwifery, MPhil and Ph.D. in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and Pharmacognosy 

She also noted the launch of a Professional Practice Certificate Course (PPCC) in the School of Sports and Exercise Medicine for health club managers, fitness instructors, sports teachers, and coaches, which began in September 2024. 

Additionally, the University’s Governing Council approved key policies, including: UHAS Credit Union Policy, Institutional Repository (UHASSPACE) Policy, Guidelines for the UHAS Simulation Centre, Establishment of the Directorate of Procurement and Supply  

Prof. Aziato reported progress on the UHAS Main Bypass Road, awarded to First Sky Limited. The first layer of bitumen has been completed, but work stalled in January 2025, with kerb and walkway construction unfinished. She added that the Department of Urban Roads has repackaged outstanding internal roadworks and submitted the proposal to the Head Office. 

Mrs. Bernice Evenunye Akosua Atsu from the School of Nursing and Midwifery, the Valedictorian, praised the Vice Chancellor and lauded the ceremony’s theme: “A Paragon Within Normalized Systemic Decay.” She decried rising moral decay, pointing to corruption and environmental harm, especially illegal mining (galamsey). 

She urged fellow graduates to uphold integrity and values: adding that “Let us be resilient in adversity and strive to make a positive impact.” 

A total of 957 students, mainly from sandwich and postgraduate programmes, graduated during this session, bringing the total number of UHAS graduates for the 2023/2024 academic year to 2,476. The first session in November 2024 saw 1,519 graduates. 

Council Chairman Prof. Kodzo Gavua noted this was the highest number of graduates in the university’s history. Since its first graduation in July 2016, UHAS has trained over 11,000 health professionals, many of whom are serving across Ghana. 

“We are committed to becoming the preferred destination for training health professionals in Ghana and Africa,” he said. 

Prof. Gavua also appealed to management to enhance the experience of sandwich programme students, especially nursing mothers, and pregnant students. 

GNA

Edited by: Maxwell Awumah/Audrey Dekalu 

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Zeqblog Blog of Sunday, 1 June 2025

Source: Okine Isaac