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Election 2024: Let’s pick ourselves up and stop feeling sorry

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Immediate past president Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to rise from their recent defeat and set their sights on reclaiming power in 2028.
The former president delivered this rallying message during a visit by a team of constituency organisers from Greater Accra, led by Prince Obeng, the party’s regional organiser.
He openly acknowledged the setback the party faced in the last general election, but made it clear that defeat does not mark the end. In his words,

Workers demand total reset of pay regime 

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By Comfort Sena Fetrie-Akagbor 

Tamale, May 02, GNA – Mr Joseph Ansah, Secretary General of Trades Union Congress of Ghana has called for a total reset of the pay regime in the country. 

He said the current framework for wage determination was no longer fit for purpose as it did not sufficiently reflect the prevailing cost of living and basic needs of workers and their families.  

He added that resetting salaries and working conditions went beyond annual adjustments of salaries and allowances. 

Mr Ansah made the call in a speech read on his behalf at this year’s May Day celebrations in Tamale on Thursday. 

He said “It is obvious that Ghanaian workers cannot reset with this low pay levels. We cannot reset amidst this high level of pay disparities. It is energy-sapping and demotivating to say the least.” 

He said, “We must replace the current minimum wage with a living wage that considers the needs of workers and their families.” 

He called on the government to stop illegal mining in the country, saying “We urge your administration to take decisive action to close this chapter and lead a new approach that prioritises environmental protection and responsible land use.” 

Mr Ali Adolf John, Northern Regional Minister gave assurance that government was putting in place measures to ensure that wages reflected efforts, skills and productivity of workers. 

GNA 

EA/KOA 

‘Rise above retaliatory politics’ – Afenyo-Markin to political actors

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The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin

The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has called on politicians to rise above retaliatory politics and focus on building a nation grounded in justice, empathy and unity.

In an interview on Joy FM and monitored by GhanaWeb on Friday, May 2, 2025, he shared a personal experience that has helped shape his views on politics.

“I have said that the time has come for us as a nation to leave behind us the era of retaliatory politics…” he stated.

The Member of Parliament for Effutu also recounted how his stepfather, an ardent supporter of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), was demoted in 1996 when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Candidate, Jerry John Rawlings, won the election.

“My stepfather was an amazing foreman. He worked at Pomadze Pottery in 1996. He was so much involved in the NPP politics.

“Right after the election, my stepfather was demoted and made a watchman. Me sitting here today? Should I carry that pain?” he quizzed.

Afenyo-Markin stressed the need for political actors to separate personal histories from governance issues.

“Every Ghanaian in one way or the other has a story to tell. I’m saying that as individuals in the space, as actors, we would have our own issues.

“But beyond this is governance, and that is where I want the direction to be,” he noted.

JKB/AE

Meanwhile, watch why Kennedy Agyapong has withdrawn from NPP’s ‘Thank You Tour’

Honour the king of palm wine music, Agya Koo Nimo before he dies – Mahama to Creative Arts ministry

Legendary ‘Palmwine Highlife’ musician, Agya Koo Nimo Legendary ‘Palmwine Highlife’ musician, Agya Koo Nimo

President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ablah Dzifa Gomashie, to organise a national ceremony in honour of Ghana’s legendary ‘Palmwine Highlife’ musician, Agya Koo Nimo.

Speaking on May 1, 2025, during the launch of the ‘Black Star Experience’ at the Black Stars Square in Accra, President Mahama made an appeal for the living legend to be celebrated while he is still alive.

“Honour the king of Palm wine Music, Agya Koo Nimo before he dies. He shouldn’t die before we go and cry at his funeral. We need to honour Agya Koo Nimo before he passes away. Dzifa, let’s organize a ceremony to honour him. I know he has been honoured before, but let’s honour him again before God calls him,” Mahama stated.

John Mahama further emphasised that the government plans to establish a trust fund for ageing artistes.

This initiative, according to him, aims at supporting the welfare of older creatives and will be part of the broader Black Star Experience.

The plea from the president drew applause from guests and stakeholders gathered for the launch of the initiative, which aims to promote Ghanaian heritage, music, and tourism on a global scale.

Kwabena Boa-Amponsem popularly known as Agya Koo Nimo is one of Ghana’s most respected musical icons and a pioneer of the palm wine highlife in Ghana.

Agya Koo Nimo has a career spanning several decades and has entertained several generations of Ghanaians.

He has carried Ghanaian culture beyond the shores of the country through his unique storytelling, acoustic guitar mastery, and traditional wisdom.

The legendary highlife artiste is often described as a “living library of Ghanaian oral tradition,” because his music is rooted in Akan proverbs, folk tales, and values.

AK/EB

‘Rise above retaliatory politics’ – Afenyo-Markin to political actors

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The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin

The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has called on politicians to rise above retaliatory politics and focus on building a nation grounded in justice, empathy and unity.

In an interview on Joy FM and monitored by GhanaWeb on Friday, May 2, 2025, he shared a personal experience that has helped shape his views on politics.

“I have said that the time has come for us as a nation to leave behind us the era of retaliatory politics…” he stated.

The Member of Parliament for Effutu also recounted how his stepfather, an ardent supporter of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), was demoted in 1996 when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Candidate, Jerry John Rawlings, won the election.

“My stepfather was an amazing foreman. He worked at Pomadze Pottery in 1996. He was so much involved in the NPP politics.

“Right after the election, my stepfather was demoted and made a watchman. Me sitting here today? Should I carry that pain?” he quizzed.

Afenyo-Markin stressed the need for political actors to separate personal histories from governance issues.

“Every Ghanaian in one way or the other has a story to tell. I’m saying that as individuals in the space, as actors, we would have our own issues.

“But beyond this is governance, and that is where I want the direction to be,” he noted.

JKB/AE

Meanwhile, watch why Kennedy Agyapong has withdrawn from NPP’s ‘Thank You Tour’

Invest your betting money into farming for future gains

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Sam George is the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation Sam George is the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has urged the youth to avoid engaging in sports betting and instead invest in a more lucrative venture like farming.

He explained that when one bets and loses, the individual does not gain any income, which he deems a wasteful venture, even though one may win sometimes.

The Member of Parliament for the Ningo-Prampram constituency advised that it would be prudent for bettors to invest their funds in farming, which will earn them valuable income in the future and also help impact the lives of those involved.

“I’m not hiding my faith as a Christian; I don’t bet. I have my opinions on people engaged in bets and all that, but I think this would be a better use of the money people are betting and losing. If you’re a betting person, you stake a bet that Arsenal will beat PSG because they beat them three months ago, and then you lose – that money is gone forever.

“Meanwhile, you could have invested that money in a farm and affected the life of a man or woman and their family. And you’re assured that a year later, at the very least, you get your money back,” he said in a viral video shared on X.

He added that his outfit will work on getting bettors to understand the essence of investing in farming to ensure food security.

“It’s essential that we figure out a way to tap into that market and get them to appreciate that our food security is national security. So, if we’re able to invest in farms – if I’m not farming, but I’m putting disposable income into someone who’s actually farming and guaranteeing that farm – I get to benefit from it. I think we should look at it as a ministry,” he added.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has scrapped the betting tax as he promised during the 2024 general elections campaign period.

SB/EB

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See Lamine Yamal’s ‘insane’ statistics with Messi and Ronaldo at age 17

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L-R: Leo Messi, Lamine Yamal and Cristiano Ronaldo L-R: Leo Messi, Lamine Yamal and Cristiano Ronaldo

Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal’s impressive statistics have surpassed those of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo at the age of 17 in their footballing careers.

The Spanish football star, after making 100 appearances for both club and country, has scored 22 goals and made 33 assists, totalling 55 goal contributions.

There is a vast contrast between Yamal’s records and those of two players who are regarded as among the best of all time, Messi and Ronaldo.

Argentine Lionel Messi, playing for Barcelona at the age of 17, made nine appearances, scoring once and assisting none, totalling a single goal contribution, far from the Spaniard’s performance.

Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, who was playing for Sporting Lisbon at the same age, made 19 appearances, scoring five and assisting four, making up nine goal contributions.

Yamal, at his young age, played a key role in Spain clinching the 2024 European Championship and helping Barcelona win the 2025 Copa del Rey.

He is on the brink of achieving a historic feat as Barcelona competes for a treble, with potential wins in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

The prodigy has been commended by football pundits and legends, including Jamie Carragger, Thierry Henry, Micah Richards, and Rio Ferdinand, among other coaches.

They believe that if the youngster maintains his excellent performances in the years ahead, he could become one of football’s greats by the time he retires from the sport.

Watch Ghana U-15 boys’ 1-0 defeat to Tanzania in the semi-finals

SB/EB

Anger as Uganda president’s son says he’s holding opposition bodyguard

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Eddie Mutwe has been missing since Sunday when he was reportedly picked up by security forces Eddie Mutwe has been missing since Sunday when he was reportedly picked up by security forces

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of Uganda’s president, has confirmed the detention of an opposition leader’s bodyguard, who has been missing for five days.

Edward Sebuufu, alias Eddie Mutwe, was reportedly picked up on Sunday by unidentified individuals in both civilian clothes and military fatigues in the central town of Kiwango, sparking public outrage.

In a series of posts on X, Gen Kainerugabai, who is also Uganda’s military chief, said Mr Sebuufu was “in my basement”, attaching the bodyguard’s photo with a clean-shaven head.

Gen Kainerugabai’s remarks have sparked public anger with Ugandans using the hashtag #FreeEddieMutwe to demand Mr Sebuufu’s release and condemn his detention.

Gen Kainerugaba frequently makes political comments, which his critics say contravenes the military’s code of discipline.

The 51-year-old army general is seen as a possible successor to his long-serving father, Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, who has denied that he is grooming his son for the presidency.

Gen Kainerugaba has made many controversial statements on social media, touching on subjects considered taboo for a serving soldier.

In 2022, he made headlines for discussing an invasion of neighbouring Kenya, a comment that forced his father to step in and apologise.

He recently sparked anger with a tweet in which he threatened to behead opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.

Late on Thursday, he sparked another social media storm after he published a photo of Mr Sebuufu, Bobi Wine’s bodyguard, appearing half-naked and clean shaved.

Bobi Wine said Mr Sebuufu was on Sunday “violently abducted” from Kiwango by armed men travelling in a police van, popularly known as “drone”, before he was whisked to an unknown place.

In a series of posts, Gen Kainerugaba said his soldiers had captured Mr Sebuufu “liked a grasshopper” and he was learning Runyankore, a language spoken in western Uganda, while in custody.

He said Mr Sebuufu was “looking very smart these days” after his beard was shaved by “my boy”, referring to his junior soldiers.

The general said he would only release the bodyguard if ordered to do so by his father, President Museveni.

Gen Kainerugaba did not explicitly state where Mr Sebuufu was being held, or on what legal charges.

Security forces are yet to comment on the matter but police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke on Monday told local media that he was not aware of Mr Sebuufu being held in any police station.

Opposition officials and social media users in Uganda have demanded the bodyguard be produced in court if he is in lawful custody.

Bobi Wine has called for a “solidarity” rally on Friday in the capital Kampala, accusing Gen Kainerugaba for “illegally holding, torturing, and dehumanizing” his bodyguard.

“This is a non-partisan opportunity to unite. Friends of Eddie and other Ugandans of good conscience, let us come together in solidarity not just with Eddie but all political prisoners!,” Bobi Wine posted on X.

In a statement, the Uganda Law Society has called for the immediate release of the bodyguard, saying his ordeal was not an isolated case but “part of a systematic campaign to silence dissent and crush the aspirations of people yearning for freedom”.

The society feared that the reported involvement of the army in the matter “underscores a dangerous nexus of military power and political oppression”.

Mr Sebuufu, who is in charge of Bobi Wine’s personal security detail, has been arrested several times and charged with various offences, including treason and illegal possession of ammunition. The opposition says his arrests and charges are politically motivated.

He has been a key target in several security crackdowns on opposition activities, especially during elections and mobilisation campaigns, local media reported.

Bobi Wine, a popular singer who has declared his intention to challenge President Museveni for the second time in the 2026 elections, has often been prevented from holding political rallies.

There are growing concerns about the targeting of opposition figures and supporters by security agencies as political mobilisation intensifies ahead of the elections.

The government has blamed the opposition for the regular clashes between civilians and the security forces, saying they hold rallies without permission.

Anytime I get pregnant, my husband sleeps with me and I lose the child- woman cries out

A Ghanaian teacher has disclosed how her husband gets her pregnancy terminated for reasons she still doesn’t understand.

Speaking with MFK on Lawson Afisem, the woman disclosed that she had lost numerous children because of the wickedness of her husband.

According to her, anytime she gets pregnant and her husband sleeps with her, she loses the baby.

Ayawaso North MCE approved, 2 others rejected

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Assembly members of the Ayawaso North Municipal Assembly in the Greater Accra Region have overwhelmingly confirmed Haruna Mohammed Awal as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

All the 18 assembly members voted  ‘Yes’ to approve his nomination as the MCE for Ayawaso North at the election held at the Church of Pentecost Maamobi Central Assembly in Accra last Wednesday.

Mr Awal became the first nominee of the President in the Greater Accra Region to be confirmed as MCE.

Rejection

However, the President’s nominees for Ayawaso West and Ayawaso Central Municipal assemblies were rejected by their respective Assembly members during the confirmation, also held separately last Wednesday.

The two nominees; Dr Michael Mensah for the Ayawaso West and Randolf Collingwood-Williams for Ayawaso Central failed to secure the two-thirds majority required to become the MCEs for their respective assemblies.

For Ayawaso West, Dr Mensah out of 19 eligible voters made up of six government nominees and 13 assembly members, polled nine votes representing 47 per cent of the vote; while 10 representing 53 per cent voted No in the election supervised by Lydia Agyiri, the Ayawaso West Municipal Electoral Officer.

The Assembly sitting was adjourned by the Presiding Member (PM) of the Ayawaso West Municipality, Benjamin Nortey Oklah, although no specific date was communicated to the members to reconvene.

For Ayawaso Central, the President’s nominee, Randolf Collingwood-Williams, secured only six votes representing 35 per cent at the assembly sitting presided over by its PM, Hudu Ismail. In this case 11 voted “No” for his confirmation in the elections supervised by the Municipal Electoral Officer of Ayawaso Central, Lydia Anom; while one of the assembly members was absent.

Their rejection means the President would have to renominate them or nominate a new candidate to be confirmed as the MCE as they could not make at least 50 per cent of the votes to make it eligible for them to automatically seek reconfirmation.  

Ayawaso North

The Electoral Commission (EC) under the supervision of the Municipal Electoral Officer, Apostle Tizor A. Watson, conducted the election for the confirmation of Mr Awal as the MCE for  Ayawaso North  which was witnessed by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, and the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayawaso North, Yussif Jajah Issaka.

Ms Ocloo, in her address, expressed gratitude to the Assembly Members for the unity exhibited in the election process; ensuring that the nominee was duly confirmed without any hurdle.

She commended the MP for his effort and living up to expectation, saying, “he [MP] told me that as for this place, he’s giving us 100 per cent. Indeed, he gave us 100 per cent.

Though, we have NDC and NPP assembly members, they all came together and confirmed the nominee”.

The minister urged other Districts and Municipal Assemblies to emulate the example of Ayawaso North and ensure the smooth sailing for the President’s nominees during the confirmation.

Appreciation

The new MCE for Ayawaso North, Mr Awal, expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the confidence reposed in him as his designated leader in the municipality.

He thanked the assembly members for the overwhelming endorsement and pledged to work with them as a unit to address the challenges of the municipality and bring the needed development to the area.

He assured the people of his commitment to a proactive, responsive and productive leadership to transform the municipality during his tenure; adding that he was ready to work with everyone regardless of their background. 

Background

President John Dramani Mahama last month nominated 29 persons as chief executives of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies(MMDAs) in the Greater Accra Region.

Key among the nominees were the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 parliamentary candidates for Tema Central, Ebi Bright, and Weija-Gbawe, Felix Odartey Lamptey, as Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) for Tema and Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Weija-Gbawe, respectively.

The appointment is the full complement of the positions of MMDCEs in the Greater Accra Region, which has 29 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

Int. Jazz Day Thrill Returns To +233

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Milena Casado

 

Two accomplished Jazz acts: trumpeter Milena Casado and singer Jackie Ribas, both from the United States, will be the special guests at this year’s International Jazz Day celebration on May 3 at the +233 Jazz Bar & Grill in Accra.

The GH Jazz Collective will also be in attendance.

It is the first time since 2012 when +233 started observing the big occasion for Jazz enthusiasts everywhere, that two women are headlining the event there. enthusiasts in the nation’s capital can’t wait to hear them express their musicality.

International Jazz Day was declared in 2011 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to emphasise the role of Jazz as a uniting factor for people all over the world. It is marked annually on April 30, but some countries sometimes vary the dates for their main concerts.

Jazz is a multi-pronged style of music with composers and performers offering many different approaches. Instrumentalist and composer Milena Casado is a crusader in her own right, bringing delightful perspectives to what she does.

Creating one’s own voice is the surest way to get adequate attention in the world of Jazz. The fact that Casado has appeared at several of the world’s top venues and festivals including Carnegie Hall, The Village Vanguard, The Kennedy Centre, North Sea Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival and Monterey Jazz Festival, says a lot about her high standing in international circles.

For some regular patrons of +233, it will be another warm ‘akwaaba’ for Jackie Ribas who performed at the 2024 International Jazz Day Concert at +233.

She won over many new fans at the show with her delectable singing, and it would be nice to hear some more from her, whether doing some well-loved standards or contemporary stuff.

The GH Jazz Collective of Bernard Ayisa (saxophone), Victor Dey Jr. (piano), Frank Kissi (drums) and Gaddiel Amoah (electric bass) are always in a class of their own. They are first-rate players who know how to flow with audiences.

International Jazz Day concerts are always happy moments at +233. Fans have in the past enjoyed acts like singer Pilani Bubu (South Africa), saxophonist Godwin Louis, trumpeter Bruce Harris and guitarist Colter Harper (United States), guitarist Jack Muguna (Kenya), trumpeter Nicholas Genest (France) and bassist Manu Falla (Benin).

May 3 is definitely another date to savour more delightful international Jazz from 8:30pm at +233.

 

Atwima Mponua MP supports rainstorm disaster victims 

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By Samuel Ofori Boateng 

 Nyinahin (Ash), May 02, GNA – Mr Seth Osei Akoto, Member of Parliament (MP) for Atwima Mponua, has extended support to victims of the recent devastating rainstorm in Nyinahin, reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of his constituents during times of crisis. 

The MP at a ceremony presented relief items such as roofing sheets and mattresses to the affected persons and their families. 

The gesture, which was warmly received by community members and local officials, aims to provide immediate support as the victims work to rebuild their lives. 

Mr Akoto, speaking at the ceremony, appealed for greater support from various stakeholders. 

He urged the government, NGOs benevolent organizations and private individuals to help provide the needed support to the victims. 

“While I have made this donation, I acknowledge that the scale of devastation is beyond the capacity of any one person to address fully. 

 It is time for all stakeholders, philanthropists, and organizations to come together to support our people,” Mr Akoto emphasized. 

Mr Otuo Acheampong Rabi, Atwima Mponua District NADMO Director, who received the items on behalf of the victims, expressed profound gratitude to the MP for his thoughtful intervention.  

He noted that the items would significantly ease the hardships being endured by the displaced families. 

“The support from Mr Akoto comes at a critical time. 

 It shows that true leadership is about standing with the people during their most difficult moments,” Mr. Acheampong said. 

Also present at the ceremony was the Assembly Member for Nyinahin Nkwanta Electoral Area, Mr Kwabena Karikari, who commended the MP’s commitment and responsiveness.  

On behalf of the affected residents, he conveyed heartfelt appreciation for the timely support. 

“This donation has brought hope to many families who have been left vulnerable after the storm. 

We are grateful for the MP’s leadership and kindness,” Mr Karikari said. 

Several of the victims, moved by the MP’s gesture, also shared their appreciation, describing the support as a “beacon of hope” in a time of despair. 

The rainstorm that struck Nyinahin caused widespread destruction, leaving many families homeless and in urgent need of assistance. 

GNA 

KOM/CA 

Totobi Quakyi Chairs Ghana Gas Board

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Kofi Totobi Quakyi

 

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed a new Board of Directors to the Ghana National Gas Limited Company (GNGLC), with seasoned public servant Kofi Totobi Quakyi named as the new Board Chairman.

The appointments, announced this week, mark a significant leadership shift aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening stakeholder engagement within Ghana’s gas sector.

The newly constituted Board includesJudith Adjobah Blay, who will serve as Acting CEO, alongside Emmanuel Vincent, Nasira Afrah Gyekye (MP), Charlotte Osei, Samuel Kwame Borlu, Awulae Agyefi Kwame II, Baba Abdul Jamal Adama, and Blay Nyameke Armah (MP).

The appointments reflect the President’s confidence in the collective expertise and leadership capabilities of the new team to steer the company towards growth and improved service delivery.

The GNGLC expressed optimism about the board’s capacity to address operational challenges, ensure quality assurance, and foster peaceful relations with host communities.

A Business Desk Report

Government Moves to Pay Monthly Allowances to Assembly Members

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The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has commenced administrative steps toward fulfilling a key promise made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and President John Dramani Mahama to pay monthly allowances to all elected assembly members across Ghana.

This initiative, rooted in the provisions of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, marks a significant shift in the treatment of local governance actors and aims to enhance the effectiveness of the decentralisation process.

Kuipers Breeders marks two years since first Ghana Hatch

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This month marks a significant milestone for Ghana’s poultry sector as Kuipers Breeders Hatchery celebrates the 2nd anniversary of its inaugural chick hatching in May 2023. Located in Amuyawkope, Sege, within the Ada West District of the Greater Accra Region, the hatchery has become a vital pillar in Ghana’s drive toward poultry self-sufficiency.

The hatchery broke ground in 2022 and began production the following year, completing construction on schedule. Spanning 200 acres, the facility is equipped with cutting-edge incubation technology, automated environmental controls, and world-class biosecurity systems. Together, these elements ensure the consistent delivery of healthy, high-quality chicks to farmers across the country.

A sister company to De Heus (known locally as Koudijs Animal Nutrition), Kuipers Breeders Hatchery was established to strengthen Ghana’s poultry value chain. After first entering the market with feed solutions, De Heus expanded to hatchery operations in line with its long-term strategy of empowering local farmers with the tools and infrastructure needed for success.

Just 18 weeks after operations commenced, the hatchery delivered its first commercial batch of chicks—a milestone that set the pace for what has become an impressive production trajectory.

In its debut year alone (2023), the hatchery recorded an output of 2,114,119 chicks. By the following year, production had more than doubled, reaching 5,198,684 chicks—a clear indication of the facility’s rapid growth and growing influence within Ghana’s poultry industry.

This upward trajectory underscores both the increasing trust in the brand and the rising demand for locally hatched, high-performance chicks. With improved delivery logistics, technical farmer support, and strategic partnerships, production efficiency and market impact are set to continue growing.

In line with a national push to reduce dependence on poultry imports, which currently account for 95 per cent of poultry consumed in Ghana, our hatchery continues to make significant strides toward food sovereignty.

“What this hatchery allows us to do is utilise international European and Dutch standards of chicken rearing and production, right here inside Ghana. This way, every stakeholder achieves the most value, from farmer to consumer,” said Moses Yaw Maidoo, General Manager.

With a strong emphasis on sustainability, Kuipers Breeders is determined to elevate industry standards without relying on the continuous importation of day-old chicks. By embedding world-class technologies into local systems, the hatchery provides a long-term, locally driven solution that supports Ghanaian farmers and strengthens the economy.

“Our advanced facilities are a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing our clients with only the best quality products and services,” added Jurjen Kuipers, CEO. “We are proud to be part of Ghana’s agricultural transformation and excited about the future we’re building together.”

As Kuipers Breeders Ghana reflects on two years of operations, it also looks ahead — they are determined to raise the bar of Ghanaian poultry standards, strengthen rural farming incomes, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s broader agricultural ambitions.

 

MoMo Fraud: Our staff can’t access your PIN – Godwin Tamakloe

HoodTalk Festival To Hold Pre-Event Cocktail

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Efya

 

The organisers of the HoodTalk Festival, DreamChild Foundation, will on Monday, May 5, host pre-event cocktail at Joe’s Bar inside Wanshi Gardens, Asylum Down, for creative industry stakeholders, including celebrities, bloggers and media personnel.

The pre-event cocktail, according to the organisers, will be used to brief participants about the HoodTalk Festival, slated for May 9 at the Independence Square in Accra.

Artistes billed to perform at the main event, which include Efya, Cina Soul, Lali & Lola, Afrokelly, DJ Spices, among others, are expected to attend the pre-event cocktail.

legends such as Stonebwoy, Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Pat Thomas, Edem, Steve Bedi and a host of others have also been invited.

A number of personalities from corporate institutions, traditional leaders, Municipal Chief Executives (MCEs) among others are expected to attend the pre-event cocktail party.

Some of the activities lined-up for the event put together by DreamChild Foundation in partnership with an audio-visual company, Virtual Hub, include live band musical performance among others.

According to the organisers, the pre-cocktail event has a lot of packages for attendees.

Being hosted by the chairman of the DreamChild Foundation, Olorogun Oskar Ibru, there will also be a lot to eat and drink at the party, which starts at exactly 6:00pm.

 

By George Clifford Owusu       

What is NPP’s problem? Is the CJ their card-bearing member? – Nana Yaa Jantuah quizzes 

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Presidential staffer, Nana Yaa Jantuah, has launched a scathing attack against the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over their planned demonstration following the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

Nana Yaa Jantuah described the demonstration as unnecessary, suggesting it is simply the NPP’s way of coping with boredom.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, she questioned the NPP’s interest in the ongoing process and whether the Chief Justice was a party member.

“When there is a need for a probe, we must do so thoroughly, and so we have to investigate the petitions. What is the NPP’s problem? Is the woman a card-bearing member or their Women’s Organiser?” she quizzed.

The NPP and other opposition groups have announced plans to stage a demonstration on May 5 to protest what they describe as political interference in the judiciary.

The Chief Justice’s suspension followed the establishment of a prima facie case after three separate petitions were filed calling for her removal.

However, the political parties involved have strongly condemned the decision, calling it a direct attack on the independence of the judiciary.

But infuriated by the move, the former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) asserted that it could also be out of guilt.

“Everything the woman did that Ghanaians aren’t happy with, the NPP emboldened her, so they feel guilty, because I don’t see why they would bring parties together for a demonstration.

“They have nothing doing, and I see it as boredom. This is not the first time someone in an independent body is being probed. Charlotte Osei and other people went through it, so what is the NPP’s problem?” she fumed.

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IERPP’s Red Alert: Ghana’s Financial System Loses GH¢271,233 Daily To Fraud

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The writer

 

“The alarming rise in fraud cases within Ghana’s banking sector is not just a statistical trend, it is a glaring red flag signaling systemic vulnerabilities that demand immediate and decisive action.”

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) releases an annual fraud report to highlight emerging fraud trends in the banking sector, reinforcing financial system stability. The 2024 report analyzes fraud risks across Banks, Specialized Deposit-Taking Institutions (SDIs), and Payment Service Providers (PSPs), concluding with directives to strengthen security and combat fraud.

The latest data reveals concerning trends in Ghana’s banking sector, with fraud cases increasing by 5% from 15,865 in 2023 to 16,733 in 2024. More alarmingly, the financial risk exposure, measured by Value at Risk (VaR), grew at an even faster rate of 13%, rising from GH¢88 million to GH¢99 million during the same period. This indicates that while fraud incidents are becoming more frequent, each case is also proving more financially damaging to institutions.

Value at Risk (VaR) for banks estimates the maximum potential loss from fraud over a set period (daily/monthly/yearly) at a given confidence level (e.g., 90%, 95%). When examining the daily impact, banks are losing approximately GH¢271,233 to fraudulent activities every day, which accumulates to about GH¢8.25 million monthly and totals the reported GH¢99 million annual loss for 2024.

These figures underscore how fraud represents a persistent and significant drain on the financial system, necessitating constant vigilance and robust preventive measures. The analysis of confidence levels in risk assessment provides further insight into potential exposure. At a 90% confidence level, there remains a 10% chance that actual losses could exceed the GH¢99 million VaR estimate, representing a moderate risk tolerance. In effect, the banking sector faces a dual challenge of rising fraud frequency and escalating financial losses, with institutions hemorrhaging an estimated GH¢271,233 daily.

Equally concerning in the report is the 33% rise in staff involvement in fraudulent activities, with cash theft accounting for 75% of these cases. These figures underscore a pressing need for the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and other stakeholders to address the root causes of this menace before it erodes public trust and destabilizes the financial system.

The BoG has rightly expressed concern over the steady increase in staff-related fraud within regulated financial institutions. While the call for stronger internal controls, enhanced due diligence during recruitment, and continuous staff training is commendable, more must be done to translate these measures into tangible results.

The dismissal of only 43% of staff implicated in fraud, as highlighted in the report, suggests a lax disciplinary culture and a legal system that inadvertently enables impunity. This leniency undermines deterrence and perpetuates a cycle of misconduct.To curb the escalating fraud and reduce the VaR, the government and the BoG must adopt a multi-faceted approach. First, the BoG should enforce stricter penalties for financial institutions that fail to implement robust anti-fraud measures, including hefty fines or sanctions.

Second, the legal process for prosecuting fraud cases must be expedited to ensure swift justice, thereby discouraging potential offenders. Third, the BoG could collaborate with the Judiciary to establish specialized courts for financial crimes, ensuring that cases are handled with the urgency and expertise they require.

Additionally, the government should invest in advanced fraud detection technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to identify suspicious transactions in real-time. Public awareness campaigns on the consequences of fraud, targeting both customers and staff, could also foster a culture of accountability. Finally, whistleblower protections must be strengthened to encourage reporting without fear of retaliation.

“The fight against fraud in Ghana’s banking sector is not just a regulatory obligation, it is a moral imperative. Only through collective vigilance, unwavering enforcement, and a zero-tolerance policy can we safeguard the integrity of our financial system and restore the confidence of the Ghanaian people.”

The time for action is now. Let us act decisively to protect our economy from the scourge of fraud.

By Prof. Isaac Boadi, Dean, Faculty of Accounting and Finance, and Executive Director, Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP)

DonJazzy gifts woman N6m for having N67 ‘unhealthy’ account balance

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Social media was set abuzz on Thursday when Nigerian music stars Michael Ajereh, aka Don Jazzy, and Crown Uzama aka Shallipopi, surprised fans with millions of naira in spontaneous giveaways following viral online interactions.

Don Jazzy gifted a woman, Adeyemi Adejoke Abidemi, a total of ₦6 million after noticing that her account balance was “not healthy.”

It all started with a trending post on X.com that encouraged users to tag one celebrity to gift them ₦1 million.

Adeyemi who tweets as #PopoolaJoke4 tagged #DONJAZZY, writing, “Make I tag #DONJAZZY. I dey always dream about him. Happy new month sir.”

The Mavin Records boss replied, “Akant namba,” prompting her to drop her GTBank details.

Minutes later, she posted a screenshot showing a ₦1 million credit alert. “Jesuuuuuusssssssss, this is huge,” she wrote. “Thank you so much for your incredible generosity. Receiving 1 million naira is beyond anything I expected, and I’m truly grateful. Your support means the world to me. God bless you abundantly sir.”

The surprise didn’t end there as Don Jazzy, moved by her previous balance of just ₦67.29, responded, “Amen ooo. That your akant balance is not healthy. I don add another 5 million. More blessings ma.”

Adeyemi confirmed the receipt of the additional N5m with a screenshot of her account balance with N6m.

Excited about the massive top-up, she wrote, “Oluwa oo. I am deeply grateful for this extraordinary blessing. May the Almighty who used you to lift me reward you beyond measure. May your hands never lack, your heart always be at peace, and your generations forever enjoy divine favour. Thank you #DONJAZZY. May God continue to enlarge your coast.”

In response to a critic who questioned her previously low balance, she said, “None of my accounts get 1 naira, I can screenshot all for you, only GTBank get 67 naira.”

Meanwhile, Shallipopi also gifted a million naira each to two of his fans while promoting his song.

“Summer is coming, ready your shorts and bikinis. Don’t forget to take a lil speaker with you in case you wanna jam da Album,” he posted on X on Thursday.

A fan, Samuel Uchechukwu Ifesinachi who tweets #teslime_dmw replied, “Summer is coming, still broke as hell. Money to buy speaker no dey.”

Shallipopi responded, “Imma send u a million if you promise to get yourself a very big JBL.” Ifesinachi eagerly promised to do so, as he shared his account details afterwards.

The artist confirmed the transfer of N1 million to the fan by sharing a receipt of the transaction on his X page.

Another fan, Anirah Gabriel who tweets as #gabe_the_menace, reminded Shallipopi of a prior conversation they had in March where the singer had asked, “How much you fit chop?” and Gabriel had replied, “Shock me papi.”

Responding to the screenshot of their previous conversation, Shallipopi teased him back, saying, “Lol u nor talk how much u fit chop nah. You dey do yanga for presido, talk jorr.”

Gabriel replied, “Make I see 1 meter from u preside jare,” to which Shallipopi responded, “Now u are talking,” and asked him to send his account details.

The singer afterwards shared the receipt of a transfer of N1m to Gabriel’s account.

Court to hold private session today over Adu-Boahene’s bail status

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The Accra High Court is set to hold a private legal session today to determine whether former National Signals Bureau Director, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, should be remanded.

This closed-door hearing, taking place under the oversight of Justice John Eugene Nyadu Nyante, will focus on claims presented by Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine, who is pushing for Adu-Boahene’s bail to be revoked based on suspicions of witness interference.

CJ suspension: Let’s leave behind the era of retaliatory politics – Afenyo-Markin

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Majority Leader in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has made an impassioned plea for the country to move beyond what he described as an era of “retaliatory politics”, particularly in light of ongoing debates surrounding the removal of the Chief Justice.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, May 2, Afenyo-Markin reflected on his personal history, recalling how his stepfather, a mason foreman who once worked at the Pomadze Poultry in the Central Region, became a victim of political retribution in 1996.

According to the MP, his stepfather, a supporter of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), was demoted and reassigned as a watchman at Ankaful following the elections, an act he attributed to the political climate under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) regime.

“At the time, I was at St Augustine’s. My mum would come and pick me up to visit the old man. The PNDC regime got rid of him. Should I carry the pain?” he asked rhetorically.

Using this anecdote to illustrate the long-standing nature of political victimisation in Ghana, Afenyo-Markin urged his colleagues and the broader political class to rise above personal grievances and focus on the greater good.

“So, if I see Zanetor [Rawlings], should I say it’s your father’s regime, the PNDC revolution, that destroyed my father’s career, and still harbour that pain? No,” he said, referring to the daughter of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.

He continued, “I’ve said ab initio that the time has come for us as a nation to leave behind us that era of retaliatory politics. As individuals in this space, we may have our own issues, but beyond that lies governance, and that is where I want the direction to be.”

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‘No foreign movies will be shown on the presidential jet!’

President John Dramani Mahama President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has proclaimed his unwavering support for the Ghanaian movie industry.

Speaking at the launch of the “Black Star Experience” at the Black Stars Square on May 1, 2025, President Mahama stated that only Ghanaian movies would be shown in the presidential jet.

He explained that while in office in 2012, Ghanaian movies were only shown in the presidential jet therefore he is bringing the initiative back into action.

“I remember as a young student in Legon, we had our little drama studio, and our students as part of their exams had to do choreography for a drama performance. And we had to pay for their performances. They did very well because of their beautiful African performances… I remember I asked they don’t show foreign films on the presidential jet anymore and that we should watch Ghanaian movies.

“This was when I was president before and I am going to give the directive again. The plan has gone for servicing and when it comes I will tell them to change all foreign movies and put Ghanian ones,” he said.

President Mahama also recounted an interesting Kumawood movie he watched concerning LilWin and Van Vicker during his tenure.

“I watch a very interesting one between LilWin and Van Vicker. When some armed robbers attacked Van Vicker… LilWin and his wife found him lying down. His wife quizzed where he came from and LilWin noted that he was a white man who had fallen from a plan. These are interesting, we have the talent,” he added.

Watch the video below:

JHM/EB

Meanwhile, watch as frustrated Ghanaians speak out on poor network challenges

AG, High Court judge, Atta Akyea to meet over in-camera trial meeting

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Kwabena Adu Boahene is the former Director-General of National Signals Bureau Kwabena Adu Boahene is the former Director-General of National Signals Bureau

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine; and Samuel Atta Akyea, legal counsel for Kwabena Adu Boahene, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau, are expected to appear before the Accra High Court on Friday, May 2, 2025, for an in-camera consequential trial meeting.

The meeting, sanctioned by the presiding judge, John Eugene Nyadu Nyante, is expected to make a determination on the matter involving Kwabena Adu Boahene, following a request submitted by Attorney General Dr Dominic Ayine, JoyNews reports.

During a court hearing on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, the Attorney General urged that Kwabena Adu Boahene be remanded into custody and his current bail be revoked.

Dr Dominic Ayine cited evidence suggesting that the accused was attempting to interfere with potential witnesses in the ongoing criminal trial.

If the meeting proceeds successfully, it will determine whether or not Kwabena Adu Boahene should be remanded into prison custody, based on the strength of the evidence Dr Ayine is expected to present during the scheduled in-camera session.

A consequential trial refers to a trial, or part of a trial, which addresses issues arising after a judgment has been rendered.

These issues typically involve the practical steps needed to implement or enforce the original judgment, such as determining costs, permissions to appeal, or other actions related to the main outcome of the case.

Meanwhile, Kwabena Adu Boahene has officially been charged with 11 counts of stealing, including the alleged transfer of GH¢49 million (approximately $7 million) from the bureau’s account to his personal account, among other offenses.

The suit, which was filed at the High Court in Accra, also had three other accused persons, including the wife of Adu-Boahene – Angela Adjei Boateng; his company, Advantage Solutions Limited; and a banker, Mildred Donkor.

The charges filed against the accused persons included: stealing, contrary to Section 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); conspiracy to steal, contrary to Sections 23(1) and 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960; and defrauding by false pretences, contrary to Section 131(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

Some of the other charges against them are: willfully causing financial loss to the state, contrary to Section 179A(3)(a) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); using public office for profit, contrary to Section 179C(a) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); and collaboration to commit a crime, to wit, using public office for profit, contrary to Section 179C(b) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

MAG/AE

Meanwhile, watch why Kennedy Agyapong has withdrawn from NPP’s ‘Thank You Tour’

Dr Kofi Amoah offers ‘soft advice’ to finance minister Cassiel Ato Forson

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Businessman and philanthropist, Dr Kofi Amoah Businessman and philanthropist, Dr Kofi Amoah

Businessman and philanthropist Dr Kofi Amoah has offered what he calls “soft advice” to the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, urging him to remain focused and vigilant as he works to steer Ghana’s economy toward stability.

Dr Amoah’s commendation follows recent comments by the Finance Minister, who shared updates on Ghana’s economic progress during engagements with investors and the business community.

The finance minister announced last week that “I had the opportunity to engage with investors, share updates on Ghana’s economic progress, and reaffirm our commitment to fiscal discipline and macroeconomic stability.”

“I assured them that the cedi has remained relatively stable and has begun appreciating since last week. Our reserve position is strong, currently covering over four months of import needs,” he added.

According Dr Amoah, affectionately called Citizen Kofi, the early indications from Ato Forson and the way he is going about his work suggest that he means well for Ghana.

In a post of X, Citizen Kofi urged the young politician not to be distracted along the way but instead stay the course to help President Mahama reset the economy of Ghana.

Dr Amoah added that, for the finance minister to make major inroads in his work, he must ensure that “spending Ministries and Agencies are transparent with their expenditures and that padding of costs and budgets are caught early on and dealt with pronto!”

He further cautioned the finance minister to be wary of politicians because not every appointee is patriotic.

He also opined that as a country, Ghana has all the trapping of a nation that can and should be prosperous.

“If we move forward together, de-tribalized, non-partisan, fully engaged on full throttle with the true determination (not half-hearted) to involve Ghana’s presently enormous human capital at home and globally, Ghana can soar up, up and upwards with the best in the world… where we belong!, But this will require jettisoning the politicians’ fake and insincere platitudes of “let’s work together” designed for public consumption only,” he added.

SP/MA

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Stop wasting money on betting and invest in farming – Sam George advises the youth

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Sam George has admonished the youth to desist from betting Sam George has admonished the youth to desist from betting

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has urged the youth to avoid engaging in sports betting and instead invest in a more lucrative venture like farming.

He explained that when one bets and loses, the individual does not gain any income, which he deems a wasteful venture, even though one may win sometimes.

The Member of Parliament for the Ningo-Prampram constituency advised that it would be prudent for bettors to invest their funds in farming, which will earn them valuable income in the future and also help impact the lives of those involved.

“I’m not hiding my faith as a Christian; I don’t bet. I have my opinions on people engaged in bets and all that, but I think this would be a better use of the money people are betting and losing. If you’re a betting person, you stake a bet that Arsenal will beat PSG because they beat them three months ago, and then you lose – that money is gone forever.

“Meanwhile, you could have invested that money in a farm and affected the life of a man or woman and their family. And you’re assured that a year later, at the very least, you get your money back,” he said in a viral video shared on X.

He added that his outfit will work on getting bettors to understand the essence of investing in farming to ensure food security.

“It’s essential that we figure out a way to tap into that market and get them to appreciate that our food security is national security. So, if we’re able to invest in farms – if I’m not farming, but I’m putting disposable income into someone who’s actually farming and guaranteeing that farm – I get to benefit from it. I think we should look at it as a ministry,” he added.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has scrapped the betting tax as he promised during the 2024 general elections campaign period.

Watch Sam George’s comments below:

Watch Ghana U-15 boys’ 1-0 defeat to Tanzania in the semi-finals

SB/EB

I Was Pregnant for Two Months Without Knowing, Suffered A Miscarriage – Adjoa Tee

Popular social media influencer and co-host of the Rants, Bants and Confessions podcast, Adjoa Tee, stunningly revealed that she was pregnant for two months without knowing about it.

Speaking during a recent episode of the podcast, during which Kumawood actress Joyce Boakye, made an appearance, Tee got personal as she spoke about getting pregnant and losing the baby.

President Mahama’s action is a reckless disregard for women in governance – Janet Nabla

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Janet Nabla, flagbearer of the People’s National Party (PNP) in 2024 election has strongly criticized President John Mahama’s handling of the Chief Justice’s removal, calling it a reckless disregard for women in governance.

Speaking at a joint press conference titled “Save the Judiciary Demo” at the NPP’s headquarters in the Greater Accra Region, Madam Nabla accused President Mahama of violating due process.

‘City Of God Is More Than A Song’

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Eric Jeshrun

 

Renowned Ghanaian Canada-based gospel musician and man of God, Eric Jeshrun, has unleashed an anointing-filled song dubbed ‘City of God’.

The song, produced by Prince Sennah, comes with a scintillating video directed and shot by Mr. Banks Films.

According to Eric Jeshrun, ‘City of God’ is not just a song; it’s a declaration rooted in scripture.

The song, released on Friday, April 25, 2025, is available on all digital platforms.

“My prayer is that as you listen, your awareness of this river that makes God’s City becomes more than just words. May it become your reality, in Jesus’ name,” he said.

Sharing the story behind the song, Eric Jeshrun said he came to Ghana to minister two years ago, and just before entering the service, he heard a piece of terrible news about a friend.

Down in spirit at the moment of ministration, he heard within that “there is a river whose streams make glad the City of God”. He ministered it, and the band tagged along.

Eric Jeshrun is optimistic that the song will bring joy to people who are in despair or experiencing difficult times in their lives.

 

 

Ex-National Signals Bureau Boss Adu-Boahen remanded for 7 Days

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The former head of the National Signals Bureau, Kwabena Adu-Boahen, has been remanded into the custody of the Economic and Organised Organisation (EOCO) for seven days by a High Court in Accra following a hearing on Friday, May 2, 2025.

The ruling comes after the Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, urged the court to remand the accused, citing intelligence suggesting that Adu-Boahen had attempted to interfere with a key prosecution witness in the ongoing alleged stealing case.

The defence counsel, Samuel Atta Akyea, strongly disputed the claim, questioning both the credibility of the intelligence and his client’s ability to influence the witness.

The presiding judge initially deferred the ruling, stating the need to review the intelligence evidence in-camera before delivering a final decision.

After hearing arguments and reviewing preliminary material, the court ordered that Adu-Boahen be held in custody for a week while further assessments are made.

According to the judge, this is a balance between the freedom of the accused and to allow the state prepare it’s witness statements.

Meanwhile, the two other accused persons Angela Adjei-Boateng, wife of Kwabena Adu-Boahen and Mildred Donkor, a former bank relation’s officer for the couple have been granted bail.

In court, Dr. Ayine also disclosed that separate investigations involving Adu-Boahen are underway at Ghana Water Limited, suggesting that the accused may face additional legal scrutiny in the coming weeks.

Adu-Boahen is expected to reappear in court on Friday, May 9, 2025.

Avail yourself for probe to clear your name – GII urges A-G over A Plus’ corruption allegation

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The Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) has waded into the ongoing controversy between the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, and the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus, over corruption allegations made on social media.

Speaking on the Fundraising Manager of GII, Michael Boadi, called for a thorough and independent investigation into the matter.

He stressed that the Attorney General must avail himself for investigation to clear his name.

“This is a corruption-related allegation, and it must be treated seriously. The Attorney General should subject himself to investigation to protect the integrity of his office,” Mr. Boadi said.

He noted that institutions such as the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service have the mandate to probe such allegations.

“The OSP, CHRAJ, and CID can all investigate this matter. The Special Prosecutor is legally empowered to do so, but the AG must not act as a barrier to that process,” Mr. Boadi explained.

He further stressed the need for both parties—the AG and A Plus—to follow due process.

“It’s not just about defending personal reputation. This concerns the integrity of our governance systems. A Plus should formally report the matter to the appropriate investigative bodies, and the AG should allow the law to take its course,” he added.

Mr. Boadi criticized the idea of engaging in a public feud over such a serious matter.

“It is painful when someone tarnishes your image, but the solution is not to descend into the mud. The AG should clear his name through legal channels, not exchanges in the public,” he said.

The Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has already dismissed the allegations made by A Plus, who accused him of manipulating the drafting and passage of the Sanitation and Pollution Levy in 2021 for personal gain while in opposition.

In response, Dr. Ayine said during a press briefing on April 30:

Mr. Boadi, however, insisted that “this is not just a personal issue. It’s a national concern, and both parties must use the right legal procedures to ensure transparency and accountability.”

Apologise to Paul Afoko, Kwabena Agyepong – Arthur Kennedy to NPP leadership

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Dr Arthur Kobina Kennedy, Former NPP presidential aspirant Dr Arthur Kobina Kennedy, Former NPP presidential aspirant

A medical doctor and former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant, Dr Arthur Kobina Kennedy, has made a strong case for ex-NPP National Chairman, Paul Afoko over his indefinite suspension from the party; as well as for ex-NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyepong; who was initially also suspended.

He demanded that the party must not only reinstate them, but also apologise to them over the unfortunate turn of events in 2015.

He made this appeal during an interview on TV3 on April 1, 2025, while contributing to the ongoing debate on the NPP’s nationwide “Thank You Tour.”

In a subtle jab at the former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, he questioned why he remained silent on some of these key issues during his time in office.

He criticised Bawumia for the seeming shift of blame to his predecessor, former President Akufo-Addo and recommended that the party pulls the brakes on the ongoing tour to focus on reconciling all members who have defected for one reason or another.

“Did Dr Bawumia ever speak in cabinet against the cathedral? Did he ever condemn corruption? I mean, did he ever raise his voice against what happened to Afoko and Kwabena Agyepong, etc?” Dr Kennedy asked.

He subsequently demanded that Paul Afoko be reintegrated into the party, and both of them (Afoko and Kwabena Agyepong) be offered an apology.

“These two people were constitutionally elected leaders of the party who were suspended under bizarre circumstances. They didn’t do anything wrong. So, I think the party should apologise to them and incorporate them back into the party,” he said.

Dr Kennedy’s call for a rethink of the NPP nationwide “Thank You Tour” fall on the back of the withdrawal of key party leaders like the National Chairman, Stephen Ayensu Ntim; and former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong; from the tour.

Read statement on Afoko’s suspension below:

NEC suspends Mr. Paul Afoko as National Chairman

On October 21, 2015, the National Disciplinary Committee of the New Patriotic Party submitted a report to the Executive Committee of the NPP; recommending the indefinite suspension of Paul Afoko as National Chairman.

At its meeting today, Friday, October 23, 2015, the National Executive Committee unanimously endorsed the recommendation of the National Disciplinary Committee.

By the decision of the NEC, Paul Afoko is suspended indefinitely from the position of National Chairman of NPP.

Freddie Blay, the 1st Vice Chair, per the NPP’s Constitution, became Acting National Chairman of the NPP.

VPO/AE

Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, where children were sold in exchange for kitchenware, others, below:

Karim Zito speaks ahead of Super Clash against Hearts of Oak 

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Asante Kotoko head coach Karim Zito has cautioned against underestimating the difficulty of the match, regardless of either team’s form.

Speaking to the club’s media ahead of the showdown, Zito acknowledged the unpredictable nature of Ghana’s biggest football rivalry.

“They are not a bad side, but sometimes a little bit of luck eludes them when they play,” Zito said of Hearts of Oak.

He emphasized that unlike regular league fixtures, games between Hearts and Kotoko are defined more by passion and rivalry than by standings or recent performances.

“I think it’s going to be a difficult game because Hearts and Kotoko are not like other clubs. On Sunday, it won’t be an easy game for either side,” he explained.

Zito, who recently guided Kotoko to a vital win over Aduana Stars, admitted that even as a coach, predicting the outcome of this fixture remains a challenge.

“I know the game will be difficult. With Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, you cannot predict the outcome until the 90th minute,” he concluded.

Kotoko have won the last three matches between the two. 

The Porcupines are in the title race and would need a win to close in on Bibiani Golds Stars. Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak who are winless in their last four games, are aiming for a win to get back to winning ways. 

Shatta Wale Apologises To Bulldog Over Fennec Okyere’s Murder Allegation

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Dancehall star, Shatta Wale, has publicly apologised to his former manager, Lawrence Nana Asiamah Hanson, known in the entertainment industry as Bulldog, for accusing him of being involved in the 2014 murder of artist manager Fennec Okyere.

In a Facebook post, Shatta Wale retracted comments he made on November 2, 2022, which suggested that Bulldog had confessed to the crime. He admitted the statements were misleading and may have been misinterpreted.

“On November 2, 2022, I published a series of posts… which included a statement that I have now come to know was generally misunderstood or misconstrued as Mr Hanson’s confession… I wish to retract each of the statements… and apologise to Mr Hanson and all the persons whom my publications… have caused pain, agony, anguish, shame, ridicule, or hatred,” he wrote.

The apology is the latest development in a years-long feud between the two, which escalated after their professional relationship ended. Shatta Wale had previously accused Bulldog of infidelity, soliciting sex from workers, and being connected to Fennec Okyere’s death—allegations that led Bulldog to file a defamation lawsuit.

Following the accusations, the Ghana Police Service reopened investigations into the 2014 murder. However, no new charges were filed. Bulldog had been arrested in connection with the case in 2014 but was released in 2017 due to insufficient evidence.

Their conflict played out in the public eye for years, with both parties exchanging accusations online well into 2024. Shatta Wale’s apology may signal an effort to bring the long-standing dispute to a close.

Fennec Okyere, a well-known artist manager, was killed at his Accra home in March 2014. His murder remains unsolved.

 

By Francis Addo

Paul Afotey Quaye unanimously confirmed as Krowor MCE

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Paul Afotey Quaye has been unanimously confirmed as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Krowor Municipal Assembly.

An engineer by profession and the Krowor constituency secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Quaye secured a 100% endorsement from all assembly members during the confirmation vote.

The process was conducted under tight security and was supervised by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, and the Member of Parliament for Krowor, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey.

Speaking to Channel One TV News, he said: “I have quite several challenges to deal with; the state of our roads, youth unemployment.

“The vision I bring to bear is in line with that of the president, which is the vision to reset Ghana through the provision of jobs to create prosperity for everyone.”

MoMo Fraud: Our staff can’t access your PIN – Godwin Tamakloe

Bawku mediation put on hold

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The mediation talks to re­solve the Bawku conflict by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has been put on hold.

This was after the two factions, Mamprusis and Kusasis, formal­ly introduced themselves to the Asantehene at separate meetings on Tuesday.

The development is in contrast to the earlier announcement that the mediation efforts would flow consecutively from April 29 to May 1, following the arrival of the key stakeholders on Monday.

Court remands Adu-Boahene into EOCO’s custody for 7 days

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An Accra High Court has ordered that the former head of the National Signals Bureau, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, whose bail conditions were yet to be met, be kept in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for seven working days, to enable the Attorney General to complete the preparation of its witness statements.

The case has thus been adjourned to May 13 for further directions by the court.

At the last court date, this suit was adjourned to today for the court to consider submissions for the grant of bail in camera to determine whether or not the first accused person is to continue on the existing bail terms.

Counsel for the accused persons had submitted to the court to order the existing bail terms to be continued for all the accused persons, to which the Attorney General opposed in respect of the first accused person. His reason was that he had demonstrated interference with potential witnesses for the prosecution.

It is the submission of the AG which necessitated the court to order Counsel for the respective parties to appear before it in camera to make their respective submissions for and against.

Having considered the respective submissions of Counsel for the Republic and Counsel for the accused persons and the need to balance the rights of the accused persons, the Judge ruled that the accused be kept in prison custody for seven days to enable the Attorney General to complete the preparation of his witness statements.

Counsel for the accused, Atta Akyea, pleaded with the judge to include weekends in the seven days, but the judge explained that the AG doesn’t work on weekends. Deputy AG Srem Sai also opposed the request.

The judge later explained that his intention is to allow the 7 days because one of the potential witnesses is not within the jurisdiction and the state needs time, and not necessarily seven working days.

Read Also: Adu Boahene’s GH¢120m bail sum reduced to GH¢80m, court restricts couple’s movements

Background

Attorney-General Dominic Ayine has formally charged the former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director-General Kwabena Adu Boahene and his wife Angela Adjei Boateng over corruption offences to the tune of several millions of cedis.

Together with two others, Mildred Donkor and Advantage Solutions Limited, they are facing charges of 11 counts of offences, including stealing, money laundering, defrauding by false pretences, and wilfully causing financial loss.

Read Also: Breakdown of charges in GH¢49m cybersecurity scandal against Adu-Boahene

According to the writ filed at the High Court on Wednesday, April 30, Mr Adu-Boahene, who was responsible for overseeing critical national security infrastructure, including contracts with foreign companies, signed a deal with an Israeli company, ISC Holdings Limited, to purchase cyber defence software for $7 million.

In total, Adu-Boahene is alleged to have transferred approximately GHS 49 million (around $7 million) from the NSB’s funds into his personal accounts, falsely justifying these transactions as payments for the cyber defence systems, together with his accomplice.

Read Also: Adu-Boahene, wife & 2 others formally charged over alleged $7m corruption scandal

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.

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ECOWAS is far from achieving its objectives – Dr Antwi-Danso

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Dr. Vladimir Antwi-Danso

Dr Vladimir Antwi-Danso, the Dean and Director of Academic Affairs at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, says the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is far from achieving the objectives for which it was established.

He said 50 years after its creation, ECOWAS remained distant from the goal of building an integrated economic community that promoted trade among member states.

“Since 1975, we are nowhere near wanting to create an economic community where we trade amongst ourselves. Unfortunately, we are still almost at a standstill where integration is concerned,” he said.

Dr Antwi-Danso made the remarks in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Accra on the launch of ECOWAS’ 50th Anniversary celebrations and the challenges confronting the regional bloc.

The ECOWAS 50th anniversary was launched on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Accra, with participation from Heads of State and Governments, Ministers, and other dignitaries.

The event featured the unveiling of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee logo and theme, as well as artistic performances celebrating the bloc’s history and achievements.

Dr Antwi-Danso identified poor leadership, trade barriers, inadequate infrastructure, and limited cooperation among member states as major impediments to the region’s integration efforts.

He noted that intra-ECOWAS trade currently stood between 10 and 14 per cent, compared to 86 percent of trade with external partners – a situation he described as unfavourable to the bloc’s development and integration goals.

“If the West African Power Pool and West African Gas Pipeline Projects were functioning as intended, there would be no power outages in any part of West Africa,” he added.

Dr Antwi-Danso criticised the incomplete status of the trans-ECOWAS highway, which is vital for the movement of goods and services across the region.

“The highway is still not completed, and as a result, one cannot drive from Ghana to Sierra Leone or Senegal,” he said.

He expressed concern over the unawareness of many citizens in member states of ECOWAS’ operations and offices, with the only visible presence often being an ECOWAS desk at ministries such as Foreign Affairs or Finance.

“It’s like the enthusiasm towards ECOWAS is now on the back burner, while each country focuses on its specific problems,” he stated.

Dr Antwi- Danso observed that 12 of the 15 West African countries involved in the ECOWAS project were considered underdeveloped, with only Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal standing out.

The economic constraints of the majority of member states, he noted, had led them to prioritise national interests over regional cooperation.

Dr Antwi-Danso, therefore, called on ECOWAS to promote regional integration through policy harmonisation, resource pooling, and collective action to address the region’s pressing challenges.

He stressed the need for strong leadership and greater collaboration among member countries to strengthen the bloc’s security, economic development, and infrastructure agenda.

Source: GNA

Saying no to gospel-secular collaborations honours God more

Gospel singer, Mavis Asante Gospel singer, Mavis Asante

Gospel singer, Mavis Asante, has made it clear she has no interest in collaborating with secular artistes.

According to her, such collaboration does not align with her divine calling as a minister of the gospel.

In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the “Victory” singer, expressed strong disapproval of the growing trend where gospel artistes’ team up with secular musicians, describing the outcome of such projects as “noise” that adds no value to the gospel message.

“As gospel musicians, we have a unique calling that shouldn’t be mixed with secular pursuits. Before any collaboration, one must ask ‘What’s the purpose?’ Is it for fame, hype, or to win souls? Because if it’s not clearly rooted in a godly purpose, then it’s fundamentally wrong,” she said.

Drawing a parallel between professions, Mavis Asante noted that every individual has a specific assignment, and mixing roles only creates confusion.

“A lawyer can’t perform surgery, and a surgeon can’t defend anyone in court. In the same way, gospel and secular artistes have different callings and missions,” she explained.

She believes that instead of crossing over to work with secular names, gospel musicians should focus on prayerfully discerning their collaborations and consider the spiritual implications.

“Sometimes, saying no to certain desires like featuring a secular artiste honours God more than any big-name collaboration ever could,” she added.

AK/EB

OSP lists ongoing corruption trials of politically-exposed persons

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Kissi Agyebeng is the Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng is the Special Prosecutor

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has released a list of ongoing corruption trials currently being prosecuted in Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale, reaffirming its commitment to actively combating corruption and related offenses across the country.

According to the OSP, significant progress has been made in its fight against corruption, noting that several cases have advanced positively through prosecution in court.

In addition to these legal proceedings, the office highlighted other key accomplishments, including the prevention of corruption by freezing and seizing assets of accused individuals, halting contracts deemed dubious or opaque, and recovering embezzled funds from those under investigation.

Among the list of the ongoing trials, some politically-exposed persons and former government appointees have been implicated.

Charles Bissue, a former Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) and the 2024 Parliamentary Candidate for Essikado-Ketan, has been charged by the OSP with 15 counts of corruption and abuse of public office.

According to the OSP, Bissue, along with another individual, allegedly facilitated the bypassing of established procedures to enable unqualified companies to acquire mining licenses during his tenure at the IMCIM.

A plea, however, is expected to be taken on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

Another politically-exposed individual on the OSP’s list is Adjenim Boateng Adjei, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA).

He has been charged with eight counts of corruption and using public office for profit, stemming from allegations that he manipulated procurement processes during his tenure.

According to the OSP, his prosecution is currently ongoing in Accra.

Check out the full list below

MAG/AE

Meanwhile, watch why Kennedy Agyapong has withdrawn from NPP’s ‘Thank You Tour’

How one qualifies to buy gold from GoldBod

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On Friday, March 28, 2025, Parliament passed the Ghana Gold Board Bill 2025 into law.

The Ghana Gold Board is tasked with overseeing, monitoring, and managing the buying, selling, and export of gold and other precious minerals.

This law designates GoldBod as the sole exporter of gold from Ghana’s small-scale mining sector, effectively prohibiting licensed traders and bullion dealers from exporting gold directly.

As part of efforts to revitalise the local economy, President John Dramani Mahama initiated the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), which falls under the Ministry of Finance.

The Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi, has stated that, to apply for any license from the Gold Board, an individual must:

– Be Ghanaian.

– Demonstrate a minimum capital investment of at least 50kg of gold, which is equivalent to US$50 million.

– Provide proof through audited financial statements of their company or bank statements.

– Show evidence of bank statements from any investment partners or off takers outside the country who are willing to send funds for gold purchases.

– Additionally, the off taker or partner must transfer funds through GoldBod.

– GoldBod then converts the money into cedis at the interbank rate and purchases gold for customers through a self-financing aggregator, who must be Ghanaian.

– The aggregator uses the cedis to procure gold for GoldBod, earning a commission as a local trader.

– GoldBod then exports the gold to the offtaker who initially provided the funds via the Ghanaian self-financing aggregator.

Meanwhile, GoldBod has reiterated its directive for all foreigners in the gold trading sector to exit the market by April 30, 2025.

All individuals dealing in gold have also been directed to trade exclusively in Ghanaian cedis at the Bank of Ghana Reference Rate.

A breach of these directives shall constitute a punishable offense under the GoldBod Act, 2025 (ACT 1140). This directive was included in a press release issued by GoldBod on April 23, 2025.

SA/MA

Don Jazzy gifts fan N6M for having ‘unhealthy looking account balance’

Popular Nigerian music executive and producer, Don Jazzy, has once again demonstrated his generosity by surprising a fan with a cash gift of ₦6 million, turning an ordinary social media interaction into an unforgettable life-changing moment. Known for his frequent displays of kindness, Don Jazzy took to social media to make a fan’s day in the most unexpected way.

Guard your voice – NPP MP warns ahead of 2028 flagbearer race

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As internal conversations intensify ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2028 flagbearer race, Member of Parliament for Effiduase-Asokore, Nana Ayew Afriyie, is urging party members to prioritise unity and choose their words carefully to avoid deepening internal divisions.

Speaking in a studio interview on Wontumi TV with host Oheneba Nana Asiedu, Hon.

Black Star Experience To Boost Ghana’s Economy By $5bn

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President Mahama and Rex Omar, presidential staffer for the Black Star Experience

 

Ghana has launched a bold cultural and economic renaissance under the banner of the Black Star Experience (BSE), a multifaceted national brand initiative projected to generate $5 billion for the economy by the end of 2027.

The Black Star Experience, officially unveiled Thursday evening at the Freedom & Justice Monument in Accra, is being championed by President John Dramani Mahama as part of a comprehensive national repositioning to elevate Ghana as the continent’s foremost destination for cultural heritage, creative arts, culinary tourism, and diasporan engagement.

Originally announced in President Mahama’s State of the Nation Address in February, 2025, the Black Star Experience is envisioned as a year-round showcase of Ghana’s creative vitality. The program will deliver a calendar packed with dynamic cultural activations, from street carnivals and theatre shows to culinary expos, concert party competitions, and internationally recognized film and fashion festivals.

Speaking at the launch, President Mahama emphasized that the initiative transcends tourism. “The Black Star Experience is not just a tourism programme—it is an opportunity to tell our story, empower our youth, and invite the world to experience Ghana in all its richness,” he said.

A pivotal component of the plan includes the transformation of the historic Osu Castle and its surrounding area into a modern cultural district. This space is envisioned to host artisan markets, gold and jewellery hubs, interactive museums, and public art installations, creating a pedestrian-friendly, creative zone in the heart of Accra.

In addition to leisure and culture, the BSE targets the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. Ghana will leverage its geographic location at the centre of the world and its democratic stability to become a prime venue for international conferences and global business forums.

Structured around key thematic pillars: Cinema, Audio, Cuisine, Aesthetics, Style, Literature, and Culture, the initiative blends local heritage with global creative expression. These pillars will guide content creation, merchandise development, and branding, creating a cohesive cultural identity for international audiences.

The BSE includes major programmes such as the Creative Connect Conference, a global thought-leadership event for creatives; the Talent Optimisation Project (TIP), which supports Ghanaian artists touring globally; and the Ghana Experience Guides Initiative, aimed at training thousands of tourism professionals. It also features immersive digital tourism via virtual reality installations at airports and heritage sites, enhancing accessibility for global audiences.

Global outreach will be powered by 360-degree advertising campaigns, strategic partnerships with global media, influencer collaborations, and international activations at events such as AfroNation, Coachella, Paris Fashion Week, and the Cannes Film Festival. Premium retail experiences through BSE-branded shops at international airports will further strengthen Ghana’s cultural exports.

The initiative is also geared toward fostering economic inclusion. By empowering artists, designers, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs, BSE is expected to create thousands of jobs and position Ghana as Africa’s Culture Capital.

The launch event brought together high-level government officials, diplomats, artists, industry stakeholders, and media professionals.

3rd ECOWAS Parliament Deputy Speaker calls for global South Parliamentary dialogue, joint action

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By Elsie Appiah-Osei

Accra, May 2, GNA – The 3rd Deputy Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, Mr Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has urged parliamentarians of the Global South to embrace parliamentary diplomacy and interregional dialogue to address global challenges and promote peace, security, and shared development.

Speaking at the Third Edition of the South-South Parliamentary Dialogue Forum in Rabat, Morocco, Mr Afenyo-Markin emphasised the importance of regional collaboration in tackling issues like trade protectionism, inflation, youth unemployment, terrorism, and migration.

A statement issued by Mr Afenyo-Markin, also the Minority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament on Friday and copied to the Ghana News Agency has said.

It said: “Trust is built when we begin to speak the language of our people, address their concerns, and reconcile perceptions with facts. Dialogue is the foundation for peace.”

“Failure to prioritize structured cooperation could lead to deeper economic instability, noting that rising global tariffs and shrinking supply chains will disproportionately harm Global South economies,” it added.

Mr Afenyo-Markin, also the New Patrioric Parry Member of Parliament for Effutu, also called for the institutionalization of South-South parliamentary cooperation, proposing that forums like Association of Sanates, Shuras and Equivalent Councils in Africa and Arab World (ASSECAA) be used to “dispel misunderstandings, foster solidarity, and transform people’s aspirations into legislative action.”

The forum, themed “Interregional and Intercontinental Dialogues in the Global South: A Vital Lever to Address New Challenges of International Cooperation and Achieve Peace, Security, Stability, and Shared Development,” brought together parliamentary leaders from across continents to explore frameworks for joint legislative action and development partnerships.

It noted the ECOWAS Parliament’s presence at the forum underscored its commitment to deepening inter-parliamentary collaboration and shaping global dialogue on peace and development from a West African standpoint.

GNA

CA/

Mahama Rules Out ECG Privatisation

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President John Dramani Mahama

 

President John Dramani Mahama has categorically ruled out the privatisation of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), assuring workers and the general public that his focus is instead on enhancing efficiency in power distribution through public-private collaboration.

His remark is in response to increasing anxiety over the future of the country’s main power distributor, with many worried that ongoing financial woes and mismanagement could lead to its privatization.

Speaking at this year’s May Day celebration at the Independent Square in Accra yesterday, President Mahama explained that while urgent reforms are needed to prevent a total collapse of the power system, privatisation of ECG is not on the table.

“Let me assure you that it is not my intention to privatise ECG as an institution,” the President stated, noting, “Our attention is more on public-private collaboration to inject efficiency into our downstream electricity distribution system.”

The President highlighted what he described as a troubling deterioration of ECG’s financial health, blaming the past eight years of governance for mismanagement that has left the company heavily indebted.

“The ECG has been brought to its knees by a culture of poor governance over the last eight years, resulting in a debt of GH¢68 billion and rising,” he said and added, “If we do not take proactive measures, our power system will collapse.”

President Mahama emphasised that efficiency in power distribution is key to bringing down the cost of electricity for consumers, noting that unless drastic action is taken, the entire power sector could face serious consequences.

“We can only bring down tariffs if we improve the efficiency of the distribution of power. If we do not do something drastic, our whole power sector will collapse,” he said.

To support his call for public-private partnerships, the President cited his own track record during his previous administration. He referred specifically to the case of Enclave Power, a private company that was granted the right to manage metering and billing within the free zones.

“When I was President, in the free zones, a private company, Enclave Power, was given the right of metering and billing,” he explained, continuing, “ECG provided them with a bulk supply of power. They pay ECG, and until today, they still pay ECG monthly on time. Their billing and collection in the free zones enclave is 99% of revenue collected.”

President Mahama argued that examples like Enclave Power demonstrate how private sector involvement, when properly managed, can help restore efficiency in Ghana’s power distribution chain without surrendering public control of critical infrastructure.

“I am sure that we can make our electricity distribution more effective through public-private partnerships, but I can assure you that electricity as an institution will not be privatised,” he stressed again.

His remarks come at a time when electricity tariffs and service reliability remain top concerns for both consumers and businesses, with ECG facing widespread criticism over billing inefficiencies, power outages, and a growing debt burden.

The speech signals a major policy direction ahead of the 2024 elections, as Mahama positions himself as a pragmatic reformist, advocating structural change without compromising state ownership of strategic national assets.

By Ernest Kofi Adu

Nat’l Chairman withdraws from NPP ‘Thank You Tour’

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Stephen Ntim
The party expressed gratitude to its members for their continued support, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment throughout the tour.
Stephen Ntim’s withdrawal from the tour comes just days after Kennedy Agyapong a former member of Parliament and flagbearer aspirant pulled out of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Thank You Tour.
Kennedy Agyapong’s withdrawal followed the stabbing of a student of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
Kennedy Agyapong speaking to the media stated,

BTPOC celebrates its student for scoring CWA of 83.6 per cent

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By Rihana Adam

Accra, May, 2, GNA – The Brother Tarcisius Prosthetics and Orthotics Training College (BTPOTC), Nsawam has celebrated one of its students Mr. Jefferson Adu-Gyamfi for earning the highest academic Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) of 83.6 per cent.

Mr. Adu-Gyamfi, was declared the Overall Best Graduating Student at the 11th Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Graduation Ceremony for Ministry of Health Training Institutions on April 30th 2025 at the KNUST Great Hall, Kumasi.

More than 16,500 graduating students across various disciplines, Mr. Adu-Gyamfi stood out with a Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) of 83.6 percent, earning him the highest academic honour of the ceremony.

In a press release signed by Dr. Henry Larbi Principal of the BTPOTC and copied to the Ghana News Agency said it was a proud and historic moment for the college.

Dr. Larbi acknowledged the collective effort behind the success “noting that the unwavering support of the college’s hardworking, passionate, and committed teaching and non-teaching staff played a pivotal role in shaping Adu-Gyamfi’s academic journey.”

He added that, “the team at BTPOTC continues to build a culture of excellence, empowering students to rise to national and global standards in prosthetics and orthotics.”

He congratulated Mr. Adu-Gyamfi for his outstanding performance and extended his appreciation to the entire staff for their tireless contributions to academic and professional excellence.

He said “Mr. Adu-Gyamfi has demonstrated what excellence, discipline, and dedication can achieve and this recognition affirms that they were on the right path.”

He urged all students of the college to followe Mr. Adu-Gyamfi step to make themselves and the school proud.

BTPOTC is located in Adoagyiri Nsawam in the Eastern Region of Ghana and is one of the Ministry of Health Training Institutions that offers a Diploma in Prosthetics and Orthotics Technology programme.

It is an Allied Health programme accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Council (GTEC) and the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC) of the Ministry of Health, Ghana.

GNA

GRB

My Colleagues Insult Me For Attention- Agya Koo

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Agya Koo

 

Kumawood actor, Agya Koo, has voiced his disappointment over what he describes as a growing trend of disrespect from some of his peers in the film industry.

In a post on X on April 28, 2025, the actor reacted to recent remarks made by fellow actor Michael Afranie, who alleged that Agya Koo refused to attend the just-ended AshantiFest in Kumasi due to a “guilty conscience” linked to his political affiliations with the previous NPP administration.

Agya Koo dismissed the claim outright, stating that his absence had nothing to do with politics and expressing dismay over how some colleagues have used his name to draw public attention.

“Despite years in politics, I’ve maintained a record of respectful dialogue, never speaking ill of colleagues. Sadly, some have chosen to insult me for attention. Let’s focus on substance over sensationalism,” he wrote.

He stressed that, throughout his career and political involvement, he has made a conscious effort to uphold mutual respect in public discourse. He called on industry players to move away from personal attacks and instead contribute to more meaningful conversations that promote unity and progress.

Agya Koo remains one of the most influential figures in Ghana’s movie industry, particularly in the Kumawood scene, where his name continues to resonate despite his reduced screen presence in recent years.

We need to rebrand; assure Ghanaians that we’ll do better next time – Afenyo-Markin on NPP

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The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to undertake a strategic rebranding effort as it seeks to regain the trust of the Ghanaian electorate ahead of the upcoming general elections.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, 2nd May, Mr Afenyo-Markin acknowledged that the party’s eight-year tenure in government had not been without flaws.

However, he was quick to point out that the administration also recorded significant achievements that must not be overlooked.

“We will have to rebrand and assure Ghanaians that we were in government for eight years, and we made some mistakes and also chalked up some great successes, such as the Free SHS,” he said, stressing the importance of striking a balance between humility and pride in past accomplishments.

The Effutu MP emphasised that reconnecting with the citizenry required honesty, accountability, and a renewed commitment to doing things differently.

“We must let Ghanaians know that we have learnt from our shortcomings and are prepared to govern with even greater diligence and responsiveness,” he added.

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.

Ayine, A-Plus Clash Over Mudslinging

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Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine and Kwame Asare Obeng

 

A public feud has erupted between the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, and Member of Parliament (MP) for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A-Plus, over a bribery allegation that has sparked widespread public and media interest.

Speaking at a press conference, Dr. Ayine forcefully denied claims made by A-Plus on social media accusing him of corruption, including allegations that he attempted to bribe the Appointments Committee of Parliament and influenced the distribution of funds from the Sanitation Levy.

“I have never stolen before in my life and have never received a bribe in public office,” the Attorney General stated, adding, “All those who have dealt with me know this for a fact. The President would not have appointed me Attorney General if he had questions about my integrity.”

Dr. Ayine said he was shocked by the accusations, which he described as “palpable falsehoods” and “name-calling with no basis in fact.”

He explained that he had no involvement with the passage of the Sanitation Levy, as he was not a member of the Finance Committee in Parliament, which was responsible for the legislation.

“I have the Hansard and the votes and proceedings of Parliament to prove that I had no role in the matter A-Plus alleged,” he said, displaying documents he claimed support his defence.

“I was never in a position to influence the composition of the committee or channel any money,” he intimated.

Addressing the claim that he accepted campaign contributions, including pickups, from individuals such as a businessman identified as Dr. Sledge, Dr. Ayine said such contributions are a common part of political campaigns and do not amount to corruption.

“If receiving donations or a pickup for your campaign is corruption, then there are 276 thieves in Parliament, including the person making the allegation,” Dr. Ayine said, referring to the independent MP, who is doing business with the Majority Caucus in Parliament.

The Attorney General also condemned what he described as a veiled threat from A-Plus, who allegedly warned him not to take action or risk further exposure.

“That is laughable,” Dr. Ayine responded and continued, “I do not act carelessly. I think through the consequences of my actions, not only for myself but for others. I have nothing to hide.”

He further challenged A-Plus to either present concrete evidence at a press conference or submit it to the Ghana Police Service for formal investigation.

“Let him stop cowardly hiding behind social media. If he has something, let him bring it forward,” Dr. Ayine declared. “In my hometown of Zuarungu, we do not fear mud being thrown at us. We walk into the mud to face the one doing the mudslinging.”

The Attorney General then made a counter-suggestion, urging the media to question A-Plus about what he knows regarding the National Service “ghost name” scandal, hinting at potential misconduct on the part of the MP.

A-Plus Rebuttal

In a swift and fiery rebuttal on social media, A-Plus stood by his accusations and escalated the war of words.

“No! That is not true,” A-Plus wrote. “According to my information, you went to beg for 500,000 cedis that you were going to use to bribe the Appointments Committee of Parliament. You are not the only one.”

He added other unprintable words to his Facebook discourse.

The back-and-forth has sparked a broader conversation about integrity in public office and the increasing use of social media platforms to make serious allegations without formal evidence.

By Ernest Kofi Adu