Afrobeats star King Promise has been crowned Artiste of the Year at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), held on Saturday night in a grand celebration of musical excellence.

The coveted award, long considered the night’s highlight, came after weeks of intense public debate and speculation. In the end, King Promise emerged triumphant, beating out a competitive field that included Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, King Paluta, Joe Mettle, Team Eternity, and Kweku Smoke.

His win has been widely hailed as well-deserved, especially following a year filled with career-defining moments.

From headlining major concerts worldwide to releasing his critically acclaimed True to Self album—which also won Album/EP of the Year—King Promise has demonstrated consistency, growth, and a deep connection with fans both at home and abroad.

Taking to the stage to accept the award, a visibly emotional King Promise expressed gratitude to his supporters and reflected on his journey. “This is for everyone who believed,” he said, paying homage to his roots and the dream that launched his career.

This year’s TGMAs marked the 25th anniversary of Ghana’s most prestigious music awards, and King Promise’s win felt symbolic—representing both the achievements of the past and the promise of the future.

From his humble beginnings in Accra to the global stage, King Promise has not only earned the title of Artiste of the Year—he has become a defining voice for Ghanaian music worldwide.

Mothers are known to be the backbone of families – raising children, running households, and playing maternal roles not only to their own children but also to relatives. I remember my childhood years spent with my maternal grandmother.

She raised eight children, plus three others from her hometown, while discreetly selling charcoal to support her household. My grandfather preferred her to be a stay-at-home mother, but like many women of her time, she found ways to contribute economically.

Fast forward to today, and the dynamics of motherhood have evolved significantly. Industrialization, urbanization, and shifting societal values have redefined what it means to be a mother. Extended family setups are gradually giving way to nuclear households, and women now have greater autonomy in decision-making – especially in matters of career and family planning.

Motherhood and the modern work-life balance

As more women enter the workforce, they find themselves juggling professional responsibilities and parenting with increasing intensity. The sight of a mother dropping her three kids at school before rushing to work, only to return home at night to help with homework before continuing with office tasks, is not uncommon. The modern Ghanaian mother is constantly in motion, seeking to excel in her career while being present for her family.

Yet, time management is one of the biggest hurdles. Working mothers often feel pulled in multiple directions, trying to meet deadlines at work while providing emotional and physical care to their children. Compounded by societal expectations, many feel guilty for choosing career over traditional caregiving roles.

Systemic challenges and career advancement

Despite strides in gender equality, mothers still face workplace discrimination. Some employers perceive them as less committed, resulting in slower career progression or missed promotion opportunities. This bias directly affects their financial stability – raising children is costly, with expenses ranging from daycare to school fees and healthcare.

Childcare access is another significant concern. Many mothers cannot rely on elderly parents due to age, illness, or existing responsibilities with other grandchildren. Trusting a nanny or daycare center comes with fear – stories of child abuse and neglect are all too common. Moreover, inadequate maternity leave policies and the lack of flexible working hours make it even more difficult for mothers to balance professional and personal responsibilities. This lack of institutional support can lead to burnout and a diminished quality of life.

Motherhood and technology

Thankfully, technology has stepped in to ease some of the pressures of modern motherhood. Robotic-enabled appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and microwaves, as well as online grocery and meal prep services, help reduce household labor. Simpler recipes and smart devices allow mothers to maximize their time without compromising on care. Additionally, many mothers are leveraging remote work and digital skills to build flexible careers. Certifications in Cybersecurity, Web Design, and Data Analytics now allow women to work from home, offering the dual benefit of professional growth and family presence.

Preparing financially for motherhood

Preparing financially for motherhood is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of planning for a new chapter in life. While emotional and physical preparations – such as understanding the stages of pregnancy or adjusting to lifestyle changes – are undeniably important, financial readiness lays the groundwork for a more secure and confident transition into motherhood. Expenses such as prenatal checkups, labour and delivery plans, and setting up a safe and nurturing nursery can quickly add up. Without a clear and sustainable financial strategy, what should be moments of joyful anticipation can instead become sources of stress and uncertainty. Budgeting, saving, and understanding health coverage are just a few of the steps that can help ease this transition.

Let me share the story of Akua, whose journey deeply resonates with me. As a young professional in Accra, she was thrilled at the prospect of becoming a mother but soon realized the financial gaps in her planning. Determined not to let money overshadow the experience, she consulted a financial advisor, created a maternity savings plan, and even explored work benefits that supported parental leave. Her story is not just about overcoming challenges – it’s about proactively shaping her future as both a mother and a provider. Akua’s example highlights the empowering role of financial literacy and preparation in making motherhood not only manageable but truly fulfilling.

The mental health dimensions

A mother’s mental well-being is crucial to her ability to nurture and support her family. Stress, anxiety, and postpartum depression can impair emotional bonding, affect physical health, and even lead to chronic illness if left unaddressed. Prolonged stress impacts sleep, weakens immunity, and increases the risk of heart disease.

Employers who prioritize mental health by offering counselling, flexible schedules, or wellness programs see improved productivity, motivation, and retention among working mothers. Investing in the mental health of mothers is a win-win for families and businesses alike.

Teaching financial literacy to the next generation

One of the most impactful gifts a mother can give her child is the knowledge of financial responsibility. Beyond the basics of love and care, equipping children with financial literacy sets them up for long-term success and security. Teaching children about saving, budgeting, and investing from a young age instills critical life skills that foster independence, discipline, and confidence.

From simple lessons like setting aside a portion of birthday money, to more advanced concepts such as creating a budget or understanding how compound interest works, early financial education lays the groundwork for sound decision-making in adulthood. These lessons can be woven into everyday life – grocery shopping, earning allowances, or even starting a small business or savings challenge together. By demystifying money and making it a regular, open topic of discussion at home, mothers can break cycles of financial uncertainty and empower their children to build healthy relationships with money. Ultimately, nurturing financial literacy is not just about managing dollars – it’s about preparing children to thrive in a world where financial choices shape so much of their future.

A legacy of financial wisdom

Motherhood is one of the most demanding yet rewarding journeys a woman can undertake. Today’s Ghanaian mother is a blend of tradition and innovation, caring, providing, leading, and teaching. Despite the challenges be they structural, emotional, or financial mothers continue to adapt, grow, and thrive.

This Mother’s Day, let us celebrate the strength and resilience of mothers. Let us also remind them that financial literacy is not just a personal tool, it’s a legacy. By teaching and modeling financial responsibility, today’s mothers are laying the foundation for generations to come. As the Good Book says, “Money answereth all things.” So, keep saving, keep investing, and keep believing you are shaping a future of security, stability, and endless possibility.
Happy Mother’s Day!

Robin Mearns (in Smock) shaking hands with the Northern Regional Minister

The World Bank has commended Ghana for the remarkable progress achieved under the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project, describing its performance as exceeding expectations and delivering beyond initial targets.

This remark was made by Robin Mearns, the World Bank’s Global Director for Social Development, who led a high-level World Bank delegation to tour SOCO project sites and engaged with stakeholders to assess midterm progress, strengthen collaboration, and explore opportunities for potential scaling up the initiative.

“The SOCO Project is not only meeting but exceeding its targets. It is bringing tremendous economic prosperity to regions that have not seen much investment in the past. The scale and inclusiveness of the project are impressive, and I strongly encourage additional funding to extend its reach to the remaining vulnerable districts”, Mearns said.

During the field visit, the delegation inspected community-level interventions in Jinlo along the Salaga corridor, including a CHPS compound and guinea fowl rearing project.

He recounted the story of Fatima, a local farmer whose guinea fowl stock grew from 30 to over 100 birds with SOCO support.

“Fatima’s story is just one example of how SOCO is boosting local livelihoods and building resilience,” he said.

The team also engaged with other income-generating groups such as the Shishegu Soap Makers and toured a newly built livestock market.

These initiatives fall under SOCO’s Local Economic Development (LED) component, which is central to the project’s mission of sustainable community empowerment.

The Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, described the project as a game changer in addressing both infrastructure gaps and social vulnerability in the six Northern regions. He noted that SOCO’s integrated approach is helping to shape peaceful and thriving communities across the regions.

SOCO Project Coordinator, Ms. Elizabeth Ohenewah Agyei, revealed that the first cycle of the project had delivered 530 community infrastructure subprojects, with 489 completed and handed over as of February 2025.

These include 33 roads and culverts, 59 educational facilities, 66 health centres, 210 water facilities, and 73 rural markets.

She also noted that over 6,200 jobs — many for women, youth, and persons with disabilities — had been created, and 744 livelihood groups with more than 24,000 members had received support to boost local productivity.

Agyei added that a second cycle is underway, targeting the delivery of 680 additional subprojects across the 48 districts.

“The SOCO Project is not just about bricks and blocks. It’s about building community ownership and participation,” she said. “We aim to strengthen the social fabric through inclusive leadership and shared responsibility, which are the true essence of social cohesion.”

The delegation also participated in the inauguration of the Tamale Metropolitan Youth Parliament, a civic engagement initiative under SOCO that promotes youth involvement in governance and peacebuilding.

Nicolas Perrin, World Bank’s Practice Manager for Social Sustainability and Inclusion in West Africa, described the platform as a model worth replicating. “This Youth Parliament exemplifies civic inclusion and leadership development,” he said.

The SOCO Project is funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

It operates 48 selected districts across Ghana’s six northern regions with a focus on building inclusive, peaceful, and economically empowered communities along the northern border zones.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr. Murtala Ibrahim

The Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr Murtala Ibrahim, has emphasized the critical role of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education in preparing Ghana’s youth for a rapidly evolving world.

In a speech delivered on his behalf at the 20th Science and Makers Fair of Galaxy International School on Saturday, May 10, 2025, Dr. Murtala Ibrahim highlighted that STEAM equips students with technical skills, adaptability, and creative problem-solving abilities essential for lifelong learning.

The fair, themed “Empowering STEAM,” celebrated two decades of fostering innovation and collaboration among young Ghanaians.

Dr. Ibrahim noted that STEAM’s integration of arts with STEM fosters empathy and human-centered design, enabling students to develop sustainable solutions for challenges like climate change, clean energy, and agricultural productivity.

“The world of work is changing rapidly. Many jobs today’s students will hold in the next decade do not yet exist,” he said, stressing the need for inclusive education that empowers girls, rural youth, and marginalized communities.

The Minister also announced the upcoming Biannual Environment, Science, and Technology Fair in June and August 2025, aimed at showcasing Ghanaian innovation.

He invited the school to join the ministry’s “One Tree per Child” initiative, set to launch on World Environment Day, June 5, 2025, to promote environmental stewardship.

The Principal of Galaxy International School SHS, Mehmet Akmermer, praised the fair’s legacy of nurturing curiosity and creativity.

This year’s event featured over 70 exhibits and introduced a competitive element with 30 innovative STEAM projects. After a thorough judging process, Presec Boys Senior High School won first place, followed by Razan Mamdouh Hamoui (2nd) and Mohammed Abdus-Samad Abdulbaqi (3rd), both from Galaxy International School.

The winners received prizes for their outstanding projects.

The fair drew participation from schools including Methodist Girls High School, Sowah Din Basic School, and New Legon ADMA Model JHS. The event was support by Carmen Sita, TUDEC, Lancaster University, and Academic City.

Dr. Ibrahim commended Galaxy International School for its commitment to STEAM education and urged students to remain curious, courageous, and collaborative.

“You are the innovators and leaders we have been waiting for,” he said.

He also encouraged the students to shape Ghana’s transition to a green, inclusive, and prosperous future. Other personalities at the event included the Osu Mantse, Nortse Nii Nortey Owuo IV, an alumnus of Galaxy International School.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

Ghanaian gospel trio, Daughters of Glorious Jesus

Ghanaian gospel trio, Daughters of Glorious Jesus has become the center of discussion after their vibrant performance at the just-ended Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs).

The music group during the awards night kept audiences on their feet while delivering most of their major hit songs such as “Wo Ntaban”, and “Aseda Ben” among others.

One of their striking performances which lit up the entire auditorium was when a member of the music group was seen displaying her talent behind the drums.

She was seen playing an introduction to their “Enn3 Manya Anigye” hit song.

A video shared on X where the music group was seen performing has raised several reactions among netizens on social media.

While some are complementing them for their amazing performance, others are praising them for staying consistent in the music industry ever since they released their debut album in 1990.

> Watch the video below:

#TGMA25: One of the biggest highlights of the performance of Daughters of Glorious Jesus😄❤️#AddMore #AccrasMusicLeader pic.twitter.com/2GmEuKtIyw

— PLUZZ89.9FM (@PLUZZFM) May 10, 2025

JHM/EB

Meanwhile, Ghanaian fashion designer Jude Dontoh shares inspiration behind Lauryn Hill’s Met Gala outfit:

Hello and welcome to another MARCA in English live blog, this time taking you through the biggest game of the 24/25 LaLiga season as Barcelona host Real Madrid.

The stage is set for another thrilling edition of El Clasico as Barcelona hosts Real Madrid at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys. With just four points separating the two La Liga powerhouses, this match could be decisive in the title race.

Barcelona currently sits atop the table with 79 points, while Real Madrid follows closely behind with 75. A win for the Catalan side would stretch their lead to seven points, all but ending Madrid’s title hopes with only a few games remaining in the season.

Barcelona enters the game with confidence, having convincingly defeated Real Madrid 4-0 earlier this season at the Santiago Bernabeu. One of the standout performers for Barcelona this campaign has been Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation who continues to impress in attack. With several senior forwards sidelined, Yamal’s creativity and composure in front of goal will be essential.

On the other side, Real Madrid is banking on the talents of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior to turn the tide. Mbappe, in his first El Clasico, brings explosive pace and lethal finishing, while Vinícius offers flair and unpredictability on the wing.

However, Real Madrid is significantly weakened in defense, missing key players like Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Ferland Mendy. With such a depleted backline, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will be under immense pressure to keep his side in the game.

Tactically, fans can expect a classic clash of styles. Barcelona‘s high pressing and intricate passing will go head-to-head with Madrid’s trademark counter-attacks. Both sides are known for their attacking prowess, and with so much at stake, the match promises drama and intensity from the first whistle to the last.

Barcelona vs Real Madrid – Latest Updates

When is Barcelona vs Real Madrid?

Kick-off for Barcelona vs Real Madrid is 16:15 CEST. That means fans in the UK and Ireland can tune in to watch at 15:15.

Fans in the USA, meanwhile, will find Barcelona vs Real Madrid starting at 10:15 AM Eastern Time (ET)/ 7:15 AM Pacific Time (PT).

Where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid?

For fans in the United Kingdom, Barcelona vs Real Madrid can be seen on Premier Sports 1 with streaming on LaLigaTV.

US-based fans will be able to see Barcelona vs Real Madrid on ESPN+ and streaming on Fubo.

Ghana’s Men’s 4×100 Relay Team has qualified to compete in this year’s World Athletics Championship in Tokyo, Japan in September after finishing second in its Heat at the ongoing World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China.

Team Ghana finished in second place in the first of three heats with a time of 38.32 seconds; Ghana’s qualification comes on the back of failing to qualify on Day One of the competition after finishing third in its heat with a time of 38.49 seconds.

Ibrahim Fuseini ran the anchor leg for Ghana and delivered a blistering run to place Ghana in second place and seal qualification to the World Championship.

Fuseini run a time of 9.04 seconds but narrowly missed out on first place. France won the Heat with a time of 38.31 seconds.

Like Ghana’s race on Day One, Fuseini was the standout performer on Day Two of the Relays as his brilliant run clinched Ghana’s place at the World Championships.

Scroll down to view Ghana Athletics’ reaction to Ghana securing its place in Tokyo.

We came through!
Our 4×100 mts men’s team runs seasons best of 38:32 to qualify for the 2025 World Athletics Championship in Tokyo.
Barnabas Argerh, Joseph Paul Amoah, Mustapha Bopkin, Fuseini Ibrahim🇬🇭

See you in Tokyo! pic.twitter.com/8LcBDQW6BD

— Ghana Athletics (@AthleticsGhana) May 11, 2025

At least 12 houses were burnt down last night by unknown assailants in the Gumyoko community in the Binduri District of the Upper East Region.

This is believed to be a spillover of the long-standing chieftaincy conflict in neighbouring Bawku.

According to JoyNews security sources, similar attacks occurred three days earlier, bringing the total number of houses destroyed to over 20.

Sources reveal that residents had deserted the Gumyoko community nearly a month ago due to repeated attacks. The assailants allegedly exploited the empty settlement to burn down homes and other properties.

No arrests have been made so far.

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.

First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama

First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama has extended her heartfelt appreciation to mothers and women across Ghana in celebration of Mother’s Day.

Describing mothers as the ‘pillars of homes and the heartbeat of the nation,’ she praised their strength, love, and the vital role they play in nurturing families and communities.

“Mothers nurture the future. Our nurturing hands, wise counsel, and unconditional assistance foster strong families and communities, laying the groundwork for a compassionate society,” she indicated.

In a press release dated May 11, 2025, Lordina Mahama underscored her commitment, alongside President John Dramani Mahama, to building an environment where every Ghanaian family can thrive. She emphasized the government’s focus on economic revitalization, job creation, and making Ghana a hub for investment.

Through the Lordina Foundation, she continues to champion women’s empowerment, skills training, and support for vulnerable populations, including children and individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Improving maternal and child healthcare remains a core mission of the Foundation.

“Ensuring that mothers receive the best possible care during pregnancy and childbirth and that our children have access to quality health services is a cause very close to my heart, and I will continue to champion it,” she said.

Lordina Mahama celebrated the dedication of mothers nationwide and wished them a joyful and love-filled Mother’s Day, affirming their impact on families, communities, and the nation.

“May God bless you abundantly for all that you do. May your day be filled with joy, peace, and the profound love you so richly deserve,” she noted.

MRA/EB

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Education has called on the government to ensure adequate budgeting is done before commencing educational infrastructure projects, in order to prevent future delays and abandoned projects.

This recommendation follows the committee’s inspection tour of senior high schools in the Eastern Region, where members observed widespread infrastructural decay and several long-abandoned school projects.

The schools visited—Ghana Senior High School (GHANAS), Koforidua Secondary Technical School, and New Juaben Senior High Commercial School—are grappling with significant infrastructure challenges. Many buildings are in disrepair, while various projects initiated by successive governments remain incomplete, some for over a decade.

Heads of the schools informed the committee that urgent infrastructure upgrades are required to support the transition from the double-track to the single-track system. They highlighted a lack of classroom space, overcrowded dormitories, and furniture shortages as major concerns affecting teaching and learning.

“The current number of classrooms stands at 52, and we have a deficit of 20 if we are to fully transition to a single-track system,” stated Diana Akosua Minah, Headmistress of GHANAS.

Following the visit, the committee commended school administrators for maintaining operations under difficult conditions but emphasized the need for a strategic funding approach.

“We have taken note of projects at various levels of completion—some at 80 to 90 percent. With a little more funding, they can be completed and put to use. Some have been stalled for more than 10 years. That’s a waste of public resources,” said Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, a member of the Education Committee.
“Going forward, we must have a budget in place before we begin any new project to avoid wasting public money.”

Deputy Ranking Member Mustapha Hamid added that the committee would submit its findings and recommendations to the Minister for Education, emphasizing the urgency of reverting fully to the single-track system.

“This is a policy the government has committed to, and as the committee with oversight responsibility, we’ll ensure our recommendations reach the Minister for Education.”

In a related appeal, Professor Samuel Donkor, President of All Nations University, urged the government to implement inclusive policies that would enhance the participation and development of private universities.

“The current landscape often treats us as secondary players. This must change if Ghana is to truly harness education as a driver of national development,” he said.

The President’s nominee for the Municipal Chief Executive for Asokore Mampong has been confirmed by the assembly members on Saturday.

Ben Abdallah Alhassan secured 17 out of the 18 votes, representing 94 percent.

It comes after controversies arose following the nomination of the candidate, which resulted in the suspension of some party members.

Present at the meeting was the Member of Parliament for the Asawase Constituency, Muntaka Mubarak.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Alhassan indicated his willingness to discharge his duties within the dictates of local government regulations.

“It is my pledge and honour that I will act and work the role of the MCE bearing in mind the dictates of the Constitution, Local Government Act as well as the model standing orders,” he said.

He further assured the MP of his willingness to work with him towards ensuring development in the area.

Earlier, the Member of Parliament, Muntaka Mubarak, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders in ensuring the MCE was duly confirmed.

Meanwhile, the Presiding Member for the Asokore Mampong Municipality, Mohammed L.A. Jarah, spoke of the need for all assembly members to extend support to the MCE.

The Assembly has functioned for over a year without a Presiding Member until Mohammed’s election.

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 Chief Executive of the Rural Water Development Programme of the Church of Christ (RWDP-COC) and Founder of the Northern College of Science and Technology, Dr. Nathaniel Adams Jr., has called for the establishment of a smock market in Yendi.

He noted that no such market exists in the five regions of the north and challenged the Yendi Youth Parliament to take up the initiative.

“I want to challenge this Parliament with the support of the traditional leaders as one of your goals, take it up and consider the setting up of the Yendi smoke market and the Yendi Smoke village.”

Speaking as the guest speaker at the inauguration of the Yendi Parliament over the weekend, he emphasised the significance of smocks as official traditional wear for Ghanaian men.

“He said, “Today, the smock is recognised as the official traditional attire for Ghanaian men—our Presidents, Vice Presidents, and any Ghanaian attending an event with a traditional theme typically appear on TV wearing a smock.”

Highlighting the growing recognition of smocks across the country, Dr Adams stressed the need for a one-stop center where people can access different types of smocks.

He said that Chinese businesses are printing Ghanaian fabrics but fortunately, they have not ventured into the smock area, urging the people of Yendi to seize this opportunity.

The establishment of the smock market, he said, would create jobs for the youth, reduce migration to southern Ghana for menial jobs, and provide an additional income stream for the youth, boosting the economy of the area.

Dr Adams tasked the youth to collaborate with traditional authorities, the assembly, and other stakeholders to bring the project to fruition.

To kick-start the initiative, he donated GH₵20,000 to support the commencement of the work.

The Yendi Municipal Coordinator, Abdul Razak Yakah, praised the SOCO project and the National Youth Authority for establishing the Yendi Youth Parliament.

He stated that the initiative would groom the youth for responsible roles, contributing to both community and national development.

Mr. Razak emphasised that President John Mahama’s administration agenda prioritises youth empowerment, enabling them to drive development and promote entrepreneurship.

He underscored that the Youth Parliament is a platform for meaningful action, not just a gathering. A citation was presented to Dr Nathaniel Adams Jr. for his commendation in supporting the youth of the area.

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.

Ghana’s men’s 4x100m relay team has secured qualification for the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo after clocking a season-best time of 38.32s.

The quartet—Barnabas Aggerh, Joseph Paul Amoah, Mustapha Alufar Bokpin, and Ibrahim Fuseini—finished second in their qualifying heat behind France at the Guangzhou Relays Day 2.

The French team, made up of Pablo Mateo, Jeff Erius, Ryan Zeze, and Aymeric Priam, crossed the line first with a time of 38.31s.

Ibrahim Fuseini finished off strongl for Ghana to book the ticket to the global showpiece later this year.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Dr Nana Ama Frimpomaa Agyapong, a Lecturer at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Cape Coast (UCC), has cautioned Ghanaians against patronising food sold near gutters, particularly cooked rice or “waakye” they consider to be cheaper and more delicious.

She warned that such foods were highly prone to contamination, exposing consumers to serious foodborne diseases such as diarrhoea and cholera.

“Food sold near gutters may seem cheaper and tastier, but such environments are highly contaminated with filth, bacteria and harmful pathogens that can easily pollute food, leading to serious foodborne diseases like diarrhoea, cholera, and dysentery.”

Speaking at a symposium on “advocacy for mandatory front-of-pack warning labelling in Ghana,” Dr Agyapong emphasised the health risks associated with consuming food from unhygienic environments.

It was organised by Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (GAND) in collaboration with SEND Ghana to educate students of UCC on healthy and unhealthy diets and also chart the course for a proposed policy framework on Front-of-package warning labelling and Nutrition Profiling Models.

“The gutters often contain sewage, refuse and stagnant water, which attract flies and breed germs,” Dr Agyapong noted, adding that choosing safe, hygienic food was not about taste or price, but about protecting one’s health and that of their families.

She encouraged Ghanaians to adopt healthier eating habits by incorporating more vegetables such as garden eggs, kontomire and turkey berries (Kwahu sosaa), as well as eating at least one fruit a day.

Dr Agyapong further proposed buying fruits in season or in bulk to make them more affordable for balanced diet.

Other speakers at the forum, including Prof Kingsley Asare Preko, Vice Dean at the School of Medical Sciences, UCC, said food hygiene, particularly the front of- pack labelling advocacy aligned with the broader national public health goals to reduce non-communicable diseases linked to poor diet and food safety.

He highlighted the importance of food safety and nutrition education in preventing illnesses that often stemmed from contaminated street foods.

Prof Preko said food safety transcended political affiliation, gender and social status, highlighting its critical importance to the well-being of all citizens and its role in accelerating national development.

He advocated the enactment and support of legislation, mandating front-of-pack nutrition labelling, underscoring its benefits as a tool to promote healthier food choices and enhance transparency in the food industry, thereby protecting consumers.

SEND Ghana, a pro-poor policy advocates that sponsored the programme, called on the government to boost the school feeding grant per pupil, stressing that only with this increase could children consistently enjoy hot, nutritious, well-balanced meals, at least, once a day.

Ms Baaba Sam, representative of SEND Ghana, explained that the symposium was to empower Ghanaians to take charge of their nutritional needs, adding that wholesome diet was essential not just for physical growth but also for sharpening young minds, directly elevating academic success and overall health.

“Every Ghanaian should be able to take charge of his or her nutritional needs by identifying a healthy balanced diet from unhealthy one,” she stressed.

Dr Agyapong urged stakeholders to support the programme with funding to help fulfil its mission to eradicate hunger and malnutrition among school children to sustain their health and learning potentials.

“We urge the government to significantly raise the school feeding grant to ensure every child savours balanced meal, tackling malnutrition issues like stunted growth head-on and unlock brighter educational futures nationwide.”

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing Ghana’s healthcare system through ambitious reforms and increased investment in frontline professionals.

He made these remarks at the 2025 Matriculation and Graduation Ceremony of Family Health University (FHU), held in Accra.

Addressing the gathering as Guest of Honour, the Minister congratulated the 303 graduating students and 444 matriculants, commending the university for its pivotal role in producing competent healthcare professionals.

He emphasised that the ceremony was not merely a celebration for the institution but a landmark for the entire healthcare sector in Ghana.

“This is not just a celebration for Family Health University,” he remarked. “It is a milestone for Ghana’s healthcare sector and a testament to our shared commitment to building a healthier, stronger nation.”

Graduating students included 36 awarded with Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degrees, and 42 receiving BSc degrees in Medical Sciences. From the Nursing and Midwifery School, 81 students graduated with a BSc in Midwifery, 88 with a BSc in Nursing, and 63 earned certificates in Nurse Assistant Clinical (NAC).

The matriculating class comprised 64 new entrants into the Medical School. Additionally, 303 students enrolled in the BSc Nursing and Midwifery programmes, and 76 were admitted into the NAC certificate programme.

Mr Akandoh used the occasion to outline several key health sector initiatives. These include the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), the rollout of free primary healthcare services, and the “Mahama Cares” programme, aimed at tackling non-communicable diseases.

He added that the government is investing significantly in modernising health facilities and enhancing working conditions for healthcare workers.

The Minister praised Family Health University for successfully blending academic rigour with practical clinical training, made possible by its affiliation with the Family Health Hospital. He paid special tribute to Professor Enyonam Yao Kwawukume and Dr. Susu Bridget Kwawukume,Founders of Family Health University for their visionary leadership.

Since its establishment, the institution has trained more than 190 medical doctors and over 1,000 nurses and midwives.

In his address, Prof. Kwawukume reflected on the university’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a fully chartered institution. He described the recent Presidential Charter as both a recognition of academic excellence and a call to greater national responsibility. He announced that the university will intensify its focus on action-based research, particularly in areas of urgent national importance such as maternal health, infectious diseases, and mental healthcare.

“We must bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and community impact,” Prof. Kwawukume stated.

He disclosed plans to expand postgraduate medical education and introduce new academic programmes in health technology and public health policy. He also called for stronger collaboration with international universities and research bodies, noting that Family Health University is committed to preparing future healthcare leaders capable of addressing tomorrow’s challenges.

He urged the graduating and matriculating students to embody the university’s core values of service, excellence, and empathy, stressing that they are not merely entering a profession but taking up a sacred duty to save lives, offer hope, and lead with integrity.

The ceremony also celebrated academic excellence, with outstanding students receiving awards in various categories. Miss Matah Naoussi Leaticia Brenda, Valedictorian of the MBChB Class of 2024, emerged as the top performer, sweeping all available academic awards in her programme and receiving the prize for Overall Best MBChB Graduating Student. In the BSc Medical Sciences category, Miss Yeboah Ewurabena Boatemaa claimed nine out of 12 academic awards. Other awardees included Miss Isabella Matey-Korley and Miss Owusu-Mintah Afaribea Akua, who also excelled in the Medical Sciences programme.

Personalities present at the event included Brigadier General Daniel Kwadjo Frimpong (Rtd.), Council Chairman; Dr. Susu Bridget Kwawukume, Founder, Family Health University, and Chief Medical Director of Family Health Hospital, Professor Philip Odonkor, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Mrs. Rita Kaine, Registrar; Dr. Sylvester Yaw Oppong, Dean of the Medical School; and Dr. Patience Aniteye, Dean of the Nursing and Midwifery School. Also in attendance were members of the University Governing Council, faculty, alumni, representatives of the Teshie Traditional Council, and several key stakeholders from Ghana’s healthcare sector.

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.

This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.

Mind of the Writer Blog of Sunday, 11 May 2025

Source: Etsey Atisu

In a heartwarming display of gratitude and honor, Akoma 87.9fm FM’s much-anticipated mother’s Celebration is currently underway, drawing hundreds of mothers from all walks of life to its premises.

The event is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to community and family values.

This year’s celebration is being held in partnership with our sponsors, a collaboration that brings both joy and health awareness to the forefront.

As part of the festivities, free health screenings are being conducted on-site, providing mothers with vital health checks and education, especially focused on cervical cancer screening where mothers will be given the opportunity to be screened free.

There is also cooking competition among women groups.

The groups include : Christian Mother’s Association of Ghana, Church Women Fellowships, Muslim Women Association of Ghana, Kejetia Dubai Beads Association among others.

There will be more of activities to entertain the women and lot of awards from “our” sponsors to deserving groups and individuals.

The air is filled with joy, music, and laughter as mothers gather not only to be celebrated but also to connect, share stories, and uplift one another.

The General Manager of Akoma FM , Ransford Nana Osei Asare, commended the mothers for their unwavering support and dedication to their children.

He observed that the free health screening initiative is aimed at promoting their well-being and strengthening them for the vital roles they play in society.

Akoma FM’s initiative continues to shine as a beacon of appreciation for motherhood, blending celebration with care in a way that leaves lasting impact.