By Laudia Sawer   

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

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

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

The body was later conveyed to the mortuary.  

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

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

GNA  

Edited by Benjamin Mensah 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rune to face Musetti next but injured Fils withdraws

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

play videoDr Mahamudu Bawumia and Bernard Antwi Boasiako

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

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

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

Dr Bawumia also criticised the bail conditions imposed on Wontumi.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JKB/MA

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

By Elsie Appiah-Osei 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GNA 

Edited by Benjamin Mensah 

By Patience Tawiah 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GNA  

Edited by Maxwell Awumah/George-Ramsey Benamba

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driving Systemic Change

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

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

A Global Collaboration

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

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

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

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

A Timely Investment

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

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

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

Read the full statement on the partnership here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. He is unhappy because:

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

— Bright Simons (@BBSimons) May 29, 2025

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

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

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

Lawyer for the embattled Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has confirmed that all bail conditions have now been fully satisfied, but a fresh legal hurdle is preventing his client’s release.

Speaking to JoyNews’ Michael Ashaley exclusively on Friday, May 30, Andy Appiah-Kubi, who represents Chairman Wontumi, revealed that the GH¢50 million bail with two justified sureties has been met.

However, he stated that his client remains in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) due to a new court case filed against him on Friday.

He noted that the legal team is working swiftly to resolve the new court matter and expressed hope that the issue could be cleared by Monday, which would pave the way for Chairman Wontumi’s release.

More soon….

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 GNAFF team with the leadership of the Ghana Immigration Service during their visit

The Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen (GNAFF) has paid a courtesy visit on the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), signalling a renewed commitment to inter-agency collaboration aimed at safeguarding national food security.

Led by GNAFF’s Greater Accra Regional Chairman, Vincent Mensah, the delegation introduced the association’s newly elected regional executives and explored areas for strategic partnership.

Discussions focused on addressing challenges in the agricultural and fisheries sectors, particularly those related to illegal food exports, border enforcement, and immigration issues affecting rural livelihoods.

Key topics included the need for stronger border controls to prevent food smuggling, enforcement of immigration policies that protect the economic interests of farmers, and the development of initiatives to support agricultural sustainability.

Mensah also proposed the establishment of a dedicated GIS hotline for GNAFF members to report illegal activities and access timely, community-relevant information.

In response, GIS Comptroller-General Samuel Basintale Amadu welcomed the engagement and emphasized the importance of enhanced coordination on labour migration.

He highlighted the need for improved data integration to ensure that farmers and fisherfolk are accurately represented in national employment statistics.

Regarding the proposed hotline, Amadu confirmed its readiness and assured the association it would be made available.

He also encouraged GNAFF to collaborate closely with traditional leaders—chiefs and queen mothers—recognizing their influential role in grassroots agricultural development.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to ongoing dialogue and inclusive policymaking.

Both institutions affirmed the importance of collaborative efforts to strengthen food systems and advance Ghana’s sustainable development goals.

This engagement marks a significant step forward in aligning institutional leadership with grassroots stakeholders to address food security and economic challenges within Ghana’s agricultural landscape.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) says it does not know the current location of its Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

This follows the party’s inability to meet with Wontumi at the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) headquarters in Accra on Friday, May 30.

Wontumi was reportedly transferred to the NIB after being detained by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.

Despite being granted entry to the NIB premises at Ridge, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin confirmed after exiting the facility that they were unable to see Wontumi.

Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Friday, May 30, Deputy General Secretary of the NPP, Haruna Mohammed, expressed concern about the development, describing the situation as “very surprising.”

He drew comparisons with a past incident involving former Deputy General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidohu, who was detained by the then Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) on treason charges.

Mohammed pointed out that at the time, then President John Dramani Mahama and NDC leadership were granted access to meet with Anyidohu during his detention.

“No, we have not been able to find Chairman Wontumi. This is something that is very surprising to all of us,” Mohammed said.

“I can remember that when Koku Anyidohu, who was a deputy general secretary of the NDC, was arrested and sent to the BNI cells for treason charges, former President John Dramani Mahama and the party leadership were granted access to go in and meet with him. I don’t know what has changed now.”

He further criticised the current government’s approach to handling such high-profile cases, stating, “This government is interested in persecution, and I don’t know what they want this country to end up.”

Read also

I’m disappointed we were unable to see Wontumi – Bawumia

At the induction ceremony of new engineering professionals in Kumasi, the President of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, Ghana (IET-GH), Engr. Henry Kwadwo Boateng, delivered a powerful and urgent message highlighting a significant gap in national policy—the exclusion of engineering students from trainee allowance programs recently restored for nurses and teachers.

While the restoration of training allowances for nurses, announced by President John Dramani Mahama during his visit to Bono East Region, was a positive development for the healthcare sector, it raised an important question: why are engineering students not included in this vital support?

Engr. Boateng challenged the belief that trainee allowances are only necessary for professions facing personnel shortages.

In today’s Ghana, the greatest shortage is in engineering, technology, and skilled trades, key sectors driving industrialisation, infrastructure development, and innovation.

Despite their crucial role in building roads, power plants, factories, and digital systems, engineering students at Ghana’s technical universities, vocational institutes, and polytechnics receive no allowances, little formal recognition, and no policy-backed motivation.

This neglect has consequences: many skilled artisans and technicians at Ghanaian job sites come from neighbouring countries, not due to a lack of Ghanaian interest or talent, but because of insufficient support for local trainees.

Engr. Boateng’s message is clear: engineering students and trainees deserve equity. For Ghana to achieve industrialisation and self-reliance, trainee allowances must be extended beyond nurses and teachers to include engineering students, technologists, and technicians. This is about national progress and ensuring the future workforce is motivated and supported.

He called on President Mahama and policymakers to broaden trainee allowances to cover the engineering sector, stating that empowering these future engineers is essential to building a “Ghana Beyond Aid” based on local expertise and innovation.

To the newly inducted engineers, Engr. Boateng urged them to see themselves not just as professionals, but as changemakers and innovators. Their role includes leadership and advocacy, championing engineering and influencing policies that will shape the sector’s future.

This moment marks more than a professional milestone; it is a pivotal point in Ghana’s development. Providing trainee allowances to engineering students is key to equity, motivation, and building a stronger, self-sufficient nation.

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.

Liverpool have completed the signing of highly coveted right-back Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, who will serve as a replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The 26-year-old was granted an earlier move to Real Madrid to play at the Club World Cup.

Frimpong was a key part of Xabi Alonso’s Bundesliga-winning side last season, who became the first team to go the full league campaign unbeaten.

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen.
The Premier League champions activated his release clause, which is reportedly in the region of €35 million (£29.6m), and the 24-year-old has agreed a five-year contract.

Frimpong, who is one of Europe’s most highly rated right-backs, will replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, who agreed a deal with Real Madrid ahead of the Club World Cup.

Speaking in his first interview with the club, Frimpong revealed his excitement ahead of his move to Anfield: “For me, it was like, ‘Whatever you guys do, just get this done’, [speaking to] my agents: ‘Just get this done.’

“Liverpool fans, I’m going to give my all, my energy, my work-rate and hopefully we can win together, we celebrate together, get everything together.

“I’m just excited to be here. Thank you guys for accepting me and I won’t let you guys down and I’ll give you the energy that you guys want.”

He joins compatriots Arne Slot, Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch at the club.
The dynamic Leverkusen star was pivotal in the club’s remarkable unbeaten Bundesliga campaign that saw them clinch the 2023/24 title.

The Netherlands international had previously signed a contract extension that would keep him at the BayArena until 2028, but he will depart for Anfield now that the transfer window is open.

Liverpool have already signed up right-back Conor Bradley for another four years after he agreed to a new contract through to 2029.

He scored 14 goals and registered 12 assists in 47 games as Leverkusen won the league and reached the Europa League final in 2024.

This year has seen him continue his strong form, scoring five times an

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine

Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, took center stage at the 34th session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ), held in Vienna, Austria, from May 19–23, 2025.

Other members of Ghana’s delegation included Matilda Alomatu Osei-Agyeman, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to Austria and the United Nations, alongside officials from the Office of the Attorney General, Ministry of Justice, and the Embassy of Ghana in Vienna.

In a pivotal address under the theme, “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind,” Dr Ayine reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the principle of “leaving no one behind.”

He detailed how Ghana is mainstreaming the SDGs into national policy, prioritising energy and education, and focusing on marginalised groups, including youth, persons with disabilities, and those in the northern regions.

Dr Ayine highlighted flagship initiatives such as the “Adwumawura,” a national apprenticeship program, and the “One Million Coders” project, both designed to equip youth with digital skills and foster entrepreneurship. These efforts, he emphasised, not only promote economic inclusion but also serve as preventive strategies against youth involvement in crime.

Regarding women, he projected the creation of the Women’s Development Bank and dedicated funding in the 2025 budget aimed at empowering female entrepreneurs.

Dr Ayine also emphasised Ghana’s increasing focus on environmental protection, calling for stronger international cooperation to combat environmental crimes.

Thematic discussions focused on addressing new, emerging, and evolving forms of crime, including crimes that affect the environment, smuggling of commercial goods, trafficking in cultural property, and other crimes targeting cultural property.

In a statement delivered on behalf of the Vienna-based African Group, Ambassador Matilda Alomatu Osei-Agyeman reaffirmed the continent’s commitment to the full implementation of the Kyoto Declaration and preparations for the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. She stressed the need to address both the effects and root causes of transnational organized crime, linking crime prevention to sustainable development in line with Agenda 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

On the margins of the CCPCJ, Dr Ayine held a meeting with the UNODC Executive Director, Ghada Waly. They focused on enhancing collaboration to combat corruption and strengthen criminal justice systems, discussing strategies such as leveraging technology, improving cross-border cooperation, and building capacity through partnerships, in line with UNODC’s priorities to address corruption, organized crime, and promote accountability and robust legal frameworks, particularly within African contexts.

Other bilateral meetings included those with officials from strategic countries and groups, such as Japan, the UK, the European Union, South Africa, and the USA, to enhance collaboration in the areas of crime prevention and criminal justice.

Ghana co-organised a strategic side event with the UNODC on enhancing good governance and the use of evidence in policymaking, presenting the evaluation of the Ghana National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP). Dr Ayine and Ambassador Osei-Agyeman shed light on Ghana’s experience in the fight against corruption.

Other side events that Ghana’s delegation actively participated in focused on the United Nations Convention Against Cybercrime, torture investigations and oversight, the Bangkok and Nelson Mandela Rules, and operational networks against links.

Ghana’s active participation, led by Attorney General and Minister for Justice Dr Ayine and the collective efforts of the African Group, underscored the importance of inclusive, evidence-based, and technology-driven approaches to crime prevention. As preparations begin for the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, the outcomes of this session set the stage for deeper cooperation and stronger institutions worldwide.

Ghana remains steadfast in its commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of law, working hand-in-hand with the United Nations and the international community to build a safer, more just world for all.

The Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, established by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, serves as the UN’s principal policymaking body on crime prevention and criminal justice. Its annual sessions foster dialogue, policy formulation, and the exchange of best practices among member states.

Good working conditions lead to productivity

The National Project Manager of the ILO’s Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work initiative, David Macos, has emphasised the need to ensure proper remuneration for work as a key driver of productivity.

He noted that better working conditions and increased productivity are interconnected and often reinforce each other.

Speaking on the sidelines of a roundtable discussion on Productivity, Jobs, and Growth, held under the theme Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Project, Macos highlighted the shared understanding among stakeholders, Organised Labour, the Government, and the Ghana Employers’ Association, regarding the link between decent work and productivity.

“I think the solution lies in making our sectors more productive, but at the same time, more decent,” Macos stated.

“The conversation is about how social partners are trying to find a nexus between productivity and decent work. Unions and employers concluded that while productivity leads to better working conditions, improved working conditions are equally necessary to achieve higher productivity.”

Macos also disclosed that the ILO is collaborating with government agencies to develop policies aimed at creating systems that enhance productivity.

“We are working with the Ghana Statistical Service to generate productivity data for different sectors. This will support the government in crafting policies aligned with sectors that show high potential for productivity growth, such as extractives.

“However, sectors like manufacturing and agro-processing also stand out, not only for their productivity potential but also for their capacity to create decent jobs and foster linkages across the economy,” he added.

SSD/MA