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Adu-Boahene’s car dealership company sold stolen cars from North America – EOCO

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Some of the collection of luxurious car at Kwabena Adu Boahene's Dream Enterprise Collections Some of the collection of luxurious car at Kwabena Adu Boahene’s Dream Enterprise Collections

The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has given details of the companies operated by former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene, in what they have described as a sophisticated criminal scheme linked to the GH¢49 million of the bureau’s funds the former director is accused of misappropriating.

In a witness statement sighted by GhanaWeb, EOCO’s investigator, Frank Marshall Cromwell, said that they found that all the companies Advantage Solutions Limited, the company of Adu-Boahene and his wife and the 4th accused in the case (A4) had shares in, were either non-existent or engaged in criminal activities.

He said that one of the companies, Advantage Solutions Limited had shares in, Enterprise Dreams Limited, a car dealership, rented and sold vehicles that were stolen from North American countries.

He also indicated that the remaining companies, including Vertex Solutions Limited, Vertex Properties Limited, only exist in name.

“Investigations established from the documents that A4 was the sole shareholder of BNC Communications Limited. Company records also disclosed that the sole shareholder of A4 is A2, and that A2 and A3 are A4’s directors. I have the company profile of A4. I wish to tender it in evidence (INDEX 7).

“Probing further into the circumstances of A4, we found that A4 is the shareholder of a number of companies, all of which are directed, operated or controlled by A1, A2 and A3. The companies we discovered include Vertex Solutions Limited, Vertex Properties Limited, Enterprise Dream Collections Limited, and Securigence Limited. We obtained information on the ownership of these companies from the ORC. I wish to tender in evidence the profiles we received from the ORC regarding these companies (INDEX 8 SERIES),” part of the witness statement reads.

It added, “Investigations have established that except for Enterprise Dreams Limited – which is involved in the purchase, sale and rental of luxury vehicles, most of which have now been established to be stolen from North America, there are no records of services provided by any of these companies. Our investigations did not find any clients for these companies, any employees, or any monies which has been paid to them for services actually rendered, or the source of their capital or income generation. I wish to tender the bank account statements of the companies in evidence (INDEX 9 SERIES).”



Adu Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei-Boateng

EOCO froze several assets of Adu-Boahene and his wife, including real estate and several high-end vehicles belonging to the couple.

Many of these cars were reportedly operated under a luxury car rental business known as Dream Enterprise Collections Limited, with its principal address listed as the Kempinski Hotel.

Details of the operations of Dream Enterprise Collections Limited, published on its website, showed the company’s stock of vehicles.

The company boasts of having a stock of over 10 luxury vehicles. The luxury vehicles displayed on the website included a Bentley, BMW, Dodge, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota.

The fleet of cars the company displayed on its social media handle also included a number of Cadillac Escalade ESVs, a Dodge Challenger, a Mercedes-Benz, and an Aston Martin DB11.

Read the full witness statement below:

BAI/AE

Burundi’s ruling party seeks to tighten grip on power

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The governing CNDD-FDD party has been in power for 20 years The governing CNDD-FDD party has been in power for 20 years

Voters in Burundi are heading to the polls amid a backdrop of surging inflation, fuel shortages and complaints of political repression.

Seats in the National Assembly and local councils are up for grabs but Évariste Ndayishimiye is safe in his role as president as he is serving a seven-year term that ends in 2027.

The elections will test the popularity of the governing CNDD-FDD party, a former rebel group which has been in power for the past 20 years.

The East African nation was already one of the world’s poorest countries, but residents there have been put under further pressure by a recent spike in the price of goods such as food.

Opposition parties have complained that their supporters have been harassed and intimidated by members of the CNDD-FDD’s youth league, the Imbonerakure.

Gabriel Banzawitonde, leader of the APDR party, said: ”People are so intimidated that they tell you they cannot wear any party colours other than the ruling ones’.

But he said they were not giving in and “once in the voting booth, they promise to vote for you”.

Several political analysts approached by the BBC declined to discuss the elections, fearing repercussions. One expert, who did not want to be named, said: “To avoid unnecessary trouble, you keep quiet.”

”We pointed out from the start that everything was being tailor-made [to fit the ruling party],” they said, suggesting that a CNDD-FDD win was a done deal.

Recently, some party officials have even been suggesting that a one-party system may be beneficial for Burundi.

Chronic shortages of foreign currency, which is needed for imports such as medicine and fuel, have led to a decline in Burundi’s economic activity.

Analysts say that Burundi now has less than one month’s worth of foreign currency reserves for imports, while the regional standard is to have at least four months.

Queues of cars stretching from service stations for around 100m (330ft) have become a common sight. They often last for days or weeks as motorists wait for fuel, which is being rationed by the authorities.

According to the World Bank, the annual domestic income of an average Burundian in 2023 was $193 (£142), the lowest within the East African Community trade bloc.

Faustin Ndikumana, an economist and anti-corruption activist, believes Burundi’s situation will not improve any time soon.

”Good governance has to be established. We’re not there yet,” he told the BBC.

But the governing party and its leader hold an opposing view.

President Ndayishimiye has said residents of Bujumbura, Burundi’s largest city, “looked bad in 2005” but now “had money to buy shoes, new clothes and to build a house”.

And the CNDD-FDD often responds to criticism by reminding Burundians that the party fought for the Hutu ethnic group – who make up the majority of the population – to access power, after four decades of what they considered as oppression by the minority Tutsis.

I won’t protect anyone from corruption investigations – President Mahama

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President John Dramani Mahama has boldly reiterated that he is not going to influence any anti-corruption agencies to drop investigations against his appointees.

According to John Mahama, he is not going to interfere in the Attorney General and Minister of Justice investigation.

John Mahama revealed that 33 corruption cases are being prepared against Akufo-Addo appointees.

Berla Mundi Takes Fashion To Another Level

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Berla Mundi Takes Fashion To Another Level

News Hub Creator58min

Berla Mundi, one of Ghana’s most celebrated media personalities, continues to enchant fans with her stunning beauty and graceful presence. Known for her elegance on screen and at public events, Berla’s charm lies not just in her appearance but in her calm demeanor and refined sense of style.

Her beauty is refreshingly natural glowing skin, expressive eyes, and a warm smile that instantly lights up any room. Whether she’s hosting a major event or sharing casual moments on social media, Berla always looks effortlessly radiant. Her makeup is usually soft and classic, enhancing her features without overpowering them, making her relatable and admirable to many.

Berla’s fashion sense is chic and polished. She often blends modern trends with timeless pieces, choosing outfits that flatter her figure while maintaining modesty and class. From fitted gowns to smart pant suits and stylish African prints, her wardrobe is a masterclass in contemporary elegance.

What sets Berla apart is her poise and the way she carries herself with confidence, humility, and authenticity. Her beauty isn’t just skin deep; it’s amplified by her intelligence, professionalism, and inspiring work ethic.

Gyakie’s ‘Sankofa’ Listed On Billboard US, Others

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Gyakie

 

Ghanaian singer Gyakie’s latest single ‘Sankofa’ has debuted on the Billboard US Afrobeats Top 50 chart, marking her first appearance on the prestigious international list.

The song also ranks in the Top 5 trending videos on YouTube in Ghana, solidifying its local and global appeal.

Lifted from her upcoming debut album ‘After Midnight’Sankofa’ has rapidly gained momentum just weeks after its release, amassing millions of streams across digital platforms.

This chart breakthrough adds to Gyakie’s growing international profile, further establishing her as one of Africa’s most dynamic female voices. Known for her genre-blending sound and lyrical depth, she continues to bridge cultures through music.

The song’s vibrant visuals and empowering message have contributed to its viral success on YouTube, where it continues to resonate with fans.

With ‘After Midnight’ expected later this year, Sankofa’s early success signals a strong start to what could be one of the most talked-about African music projects in 2025.

‘Sankofa’ is currently available on all major streaming platforms.

 

 

BoG Governor Targets Single-Digit Lending Rate

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Dr. Johnson Asiama

 

Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Johnson Asiama, has expressed his commitment to ensure that the lending rate is less than 10 percent at the end of his tenure.

Dr. Johnson Asiama who made the call during theAssociation of Ghana Industries (AGI), Forum in Accra said this will help improve private sector investment and accelerate economic growth given the current average lending rate which hovers around 27.4 percent.

“My vision is to see lending rates in this country fall to less than 10 percent before the end of my four-year term. It is doable; why we think it is not?” the Governor asserted.

Dr. Asiama said BoG is engaging directly with commercial banks to align on reform measures that will bring down rates sustainably while calling for more industry-led self-regulation and cooperation to advance these efforts.

“I want to see more self-regulation. As heads of banks, you know what’s best for the industry. Why wait for me to come after you? I expect you to collaborate and bring proposals forward. I will simply play the role of referee,” he said

“I believe that when businesses succeed, society succeeds. What you provide is more than a public good. In every way we can, we will work together,” he said.

President of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke, asked the Bank of Ghana to ensure industry has a form of tangible benefits following recent macroeconomic gains in recent times.

“We are meeting at a time when our economy is showing signs of resilience and recovery. Declining inflation, a stabilised exchange rate, and renewed economic confidence give us cautious optimism. But these gains must be consolidated into tangible benefits for businesses,” he added.

 

By Ebenezer K. Amponsah

Video – Circle boys clash with soldiers over missing phone tracked to a closed shop

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A viral video has surfaced of a confrontation that broke out between civilians and some soldiers at Circle, Accra, yesterday June 2, 2025.

According to reports, the soldiers allegedly broke into a closed phone shop in search of a missing device.

The information gathered suggests the soldiers had tracked a missing phone to the shop, which was closed at the time of their arrival.

“They just want to lose belly fat” – Vanderpuye mocks Minority MPs’ march

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The National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, has criticised the Minority Members of Parliament (MPs) for marching to the Police Headquarters over the delay in the Ablekuma North election results, describing the protest as unnecessary and misdirected.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, June 5, he argued that the demonstration appeared more like a publicity stunt aimed at gaining media attention than a genuine democratic exercise to resolve a constitutional issue.

Vanderpuye emphasised that the Minority MPs were fully aware that the Electoral Commission (EC), not the police, is the legally mandated body to declare election results.

By opting to protest at the Police Headquarters rather than engaging the Electoral Commission directly or pursuing legal channels, he suggested the MPs were more focused on creating a public spectacle to gain sympathy than seeking a meaningful resolution.

“I think it is a simple fact that some of them have developed bellies, and they want to exercise so that they reduce the fat around their bellies. Because, seriously speaking, I do not think this is necessary,” he stated.
He questioned the rationale behind petitioning the Inspector General of Police (IGP) rather than addressing their concerns directly to the Electoral Commission (EC), which is constitutionally mandated to declare election results.

“Your petition should go to the EC, not the IGP. The IGP does not conduct elections, and they should know that. It is the EC that conducts elections, so why do you march to the police quarters? Their action is a misplaced priority. My advice is that if they think the EC has reneged on its responsibility, they can go to court and, through the court, ask the EC to fulfil its mandate or petition the EC itself,” he added.

Read also……

Pay higher electricity tariffs or support fuel levy — Vanderpuye

Re-run disputed polling stations – Omane Boamah

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Dr Edward Omane Boamah is the Minister of Defence Dr Edward Omane Boamah is the Minister of Defence

The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has called for a re-run of the parliamentary elections at certain polling stations in the Ablekuma North constituency, where results have been disputed.

Weighing in on the delayed declaration of the constituency’s results and the resulting lack of parliamentary representation for its constituents, Dr Omane Boamah said the electoral body does not possess the pink sheets required for the disputed polling stations to properly collate results, or the outcome of the parliamentary elections, thereby preventing the declaration of a winner.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Dr Omane Boamah, who also serves as the Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), emphasised the need for Ghanaians to approach the parliamentary elections with transparency and to uphold the laws enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, in order not to subvert the will of the constituents.

“Let’s approach the Ablekuma North Constituency Parliamentary elections with transparency and accountability, and adherence to Electoral Laws. I urge the Jean Mensa-led Electoral Commission to uphold the principles of fairness. Electoral Commission Ghana re-run the disputed Polling Stations because you just do not have the Pinksheets,” he stated.

The Minister raised concerns about the possibility of Ablekuma North becoming the next SALL case, where constituents were disenfranchised and left without parliamentary representation for four years.

According to him, if these issues are not addressed with the appropriate measures, the situation could lead to dire consequences.

“Let’s draw lessons from the SALL elections debacle, where four significant traditional areas were denied parliamentary representation for years because of the actions and inactions of the NPP and the Electoral Commission,” he said.

Dr Omane Boamah has therefore urged the citizenry to remain vigilant and to demand accountability and transparency from the Electoral Commission, as well as to insist that the electoral processes are free, fair, and devoid of any rigging.

Read his post below:

MAG/EB

I’m Scared Of Revealing My Baby Daddy – Akuapem Poloo

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Akuapem Poloo

 

Socialite, Rosemond Brown, also known as Akuapem Poloo, has disclosed that she fears to reveal her current boyfriend who doubles as the baby daddy of her second child on social media.

Speaking in an interview on the Savage Room podcast, the 2024 Ghana Movie Awards Discovery Actress award winner, mentioned that her past experiences in the entertainment sector have taught her lessons which includes keeping certain sensitive information to herself as excessive exposure can destroy her relationship with her baby daddy.

“The man that l have given birth with is more than a star, if l show Ghanaians who I’m dating it is going to be the talk of the world. And that’s why I’m not letting anyone know him,” she said.

She continued,” In Ghana here, we don’t like good things as compared to the foreigners, immediately l reveal who I’m dating they will destroy it right now without thinking twice.”

Akuapem Poloo added that people who over the years have disclosed their relationship on the internet have ended up breaking up, implying that she has no plans of revealing the current identity of the baby daddy and soon-to-be husband.

It will be recalled that in March 2025, Akuapem Poloo joyfully announced the birth of her second child, a baby girl.

Taking to Instagram, the actress shared a series of heartwarming photos to mark the special occasion. Dressed in an elegant all-white outfit, Akuapem Poloo proudly declared her status as a “new mum.”

She expressed deep gratitude to God for this new chapter in her life.

“In His own time, He makes everything beautiful. God, I’m grateful,” she wrote.

One of the touching images featured Akuapem Poloo alongside her first child, who held up a placard reading, “Promoted to Big Brother”—a moment that captured his excitement about welcoming his baby sister.

 

Prince Fiifi Yorke

Ghana’s economy, trade must be diversified  – Swiss Ambassador

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Switzerland’s Ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger, has called for greater economic diversification in Ghana, urging the country to expand its trade and production capacity beyond traditional exports.

Ghana and Switzerland have a long-standing bilateral relationship, especially in areas of trade, cocoa partnerships, and environmental collaboration.

However, Madam Giger believes this is the time for Ghana to add value to its local products and expand the presence of Ghanaian goods on international markets.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Ambassador Giger expressed her optimism about Ghana’s economic potential and encouraged the development of new sectors that could penetrate global markets.

“In boosting the economy, I feel that Ghana’s economy and trade should be more diversified,” she said. “I would be super happy if one day I could go to a Swiss market and buy clothes made in Ghana, handcrafts made in Ghana, or even chocolate made in Ghana.”

She also reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to environmental and climate cooperation with Ghana.

“We will continue our cooperation in environmental and climate protection, and I really hope other countries will see what we have done,” she noted.

“We learn from our experiences, and I hope Ghana will get praise for the work it has done with the EPA in leading some climate initiatives.”

Imagine someone saying your music isn’t even worth ten bucks – Vic Mensa on streaming struggles

Vic Mensa has spoken on the emotional toll the music industry takes on artistes in the streaming era Vic Mensa has spoken on the emotional toll the music industry takes on artistes in the streaming era

Ghanaian American rapper Vic Mensa has spoken on the emotional toll the music industry takes on artistes in the streaming era.

In a post on his social media page on June 3, 2025, the “U Mad”, rapper revealed the emotional toll the streaming era is having on musicians.

According to Vic Mensa, he broke down in tears while in the shower, overwhelmed by thoughts of how the value of an artiste’s work has been reduced in the current digital age.

He expressed how difficult it is for musicians to cope with the way their efforts are often overlooked or underappreciated.

“Just broke down in the shower, thinking about the weight of being an artiste in a time when work is so devalued and depreciated, the impact on the mental health of artistes this streaming era has created,” he shared.

The rapper also touched on a moment when someone questioned why they should pay $10 to support one artiste directly when that same amount could get them access to millions of songs on a streaming platform.

According to Vic Mensa at first, he thought that was a flawed way of thinking but later admitted that it made him realise how this mindset affects artistes emotionally.

He pointed out new platforms like James Blake’s Vault, which allows artistes to sell unreleased music directly to fans, as one possible way to address the issue.

However, he noted that it’s still difficult to convince people that music is worth more than just pennies.

“At the time, I was like, you know, that’s so fried of a mentality, but today, it kind of hit me how it impacts the mental health of artistes. People feel like, ‘That shit not worth $10?’ It’s heartbreaking, but it’s hilarious at the same time, like not worth 10 bucks.

“Artistes are already people that are predisposed to suicide … and to add to that a dimension of economic inequity so profound that not even the record labels know what to do about this. They don’t even know how to get the money right now,” he added.

Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:

AK/EB

Asamoah, Ameyaw Akumfi made no efforts to recover funds after payment – Witness

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Former CEO of GIIF Solomon Asamoah (L) and Prof Christopher Ameyaw Akumfi (R) Former CEO of GIIF Solomon Asamoah (L) and Prof Christopher Ameyaw Akumfi (R)

An officer of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng, has provided his witness statement in the ongoing criminal trial concerning the failed $2 million Accra Skytrain project.

According to his statement, he disclosed that the two accused persons: the former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), Solomon Asamoah; and the former Board Chairman, Prof Christopher Ameyaw Akumfi, did not follow the proper procedures.

He said they went ahead to authorise the payment of $2 million to Africa Investor Holdings Limited (AIHL) in an attempt to develop a Skytrain project in Accra, without the required approval from the GIIF Board, 3news.com reports.

The report further stated that the transaction was flagged as irregular and did not follow the required processes as intended.

Koranteng further indicated that after the transaction was made to Africa Investor Holdings Limited, neither the former CEO nor the board chairman made any attempt to recover the funds from AIHL.

“The payment of USD2 million was executed without board approval, and no effort was made to recover the funds, despite a breach in the condition precedent,” portions of the witness statement as quoted by 3news read.

Koranteng further noted that GIIF’s internal team prepared a due diligence report which highlighted serious concerns about the company, AIHL.

Notable among the report’s findings was that AIHL had ‘no assets, no track record, and only one director,’ raising doubts about its capacity to deliver a project of such scale.

Despite these concerns, the duo of Solomon Asamoah and Prof Ameyaw Akumfi proceeded with the payment, using only their authorisations.

The agreement required AIHL to secure a Rail Concession Agreement (RCA) with the Ghanaian government as a condition precedent.

However, the company failed to meet this requirement, and the project never progressed to implementation.

Koranteng also disclosed in his witness statement that following the change in leadership, GIIF attempted to retrieve the funds through formal demand letters, but these efforts were unsuccessful, the report added.

MAG/AE

Tanzania announces shutdown of X because of pornography

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X is popular among politicians and activists to communicate with the public X is popular among politicians and activists to communicate with the public

Tanzania has decided to block access to social media platform X because it allows pornographic content to be shared, the information minister has said.

The content was contrary to the East African state’s “laws, culture, customs, and traditions,” Jerry Silaa told a local TV station.

Tanzanians have reported that access to X has been restricted in the last two weeks after political tensions rose and the police account was hacked, but there has not yet been a total shutdown of the platform.

A Tanzanian rights group posted on X that Silaa’s comments reflected a “troubling pattern of digital repression” ahead of October’s presidential and parliamentary elections.

Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government has been accused of becoming increasingly repressive as it campaigns to remain in office.

In its post, the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) said that X, then known as Twitter, faced a similar shutdown in the run-up to the 2020 election, and the “recurrence” of restrictions raised “serious concerns about the openness of digital space” in Tanzania.

The popular social audio app Clubhouse and messaging service Telegram are also inaccessible without the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPN), the rights group added.

It said it was troubling that while the minister confirmed the government’s role in blocking X, government officials and public institutions continued to use the platform.

“This inconsistency confuses the public and undermines the credibility of the government’s position,” LHRC added.

In his interview, Silaa linked the ban to X’s announcement last year that it would no longer block “consensually produced and distributed” adult content.

The minister was quoted as saying that X has “permitted explicit sexual material, including same-sex pornographic content” in breach of Tanzania’s online “ethics guidelines.

“Even on YouTube, you might notice that some content is inaccessible. That’s part of our broader effort to protect consumers and ensure that all online platforms operating in our country comply with our laws,” Silaa said.

On 20 May, internet watchdog Netblocks reported that Tanzania had blocked X following reports that the official police account had been hacked, showing pornographic material and falsely claiming that the president had died.

Pornographic content also appeared on the hacked YouTube account of the tax authority, AFP news agency reported.

It is unclear who carried out the hacking, but it coincided with a government crackdown on Kenyan and Ugandan human rights campaigners who had gone to Tanzania to show solidarity with main opposition leader Tundu Lissu.

He has been detained on a charge of treason after he said he would spearhead a campaign to boycott the elections if the laws were not changed to allow for a free and fair poll.

Kenya’s former Justice Minister Martha Karua was among those deported after arriving at the international airport in Tanzania’s main city Dar es Salaam, ahead of a court appearance by Lissu.

He denies the treason charge, saying the case is political.

Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Uganda’s Agather Atuhaire were allowed to enter, but were then detained for several days.

After returning home, Atuhaire told the BBC that she had been blindfolded, “violently” stripped and sexually assaulted.

On Monday, Mwangi said he too had been sexually abused in detention and was told by his torturers to say “asante” (thank you in the Swahili language) to their president.

Dar es Salaam’s police chief denied the allegations, saying they were “opinions” and “hearsay”.

Regional rights groups have called for an investigation, and Amnesty International said Tanzanian authorities should hold to account those responsible for the “inhuman” treatment.

President Samia has said that her government will not tolerate activists from other East African states “meddling” in Tanzania’s affairs and causing “chaos”.

She inherited the presidency following the death in 2021 of then-President John Magufuli, and was widely praised for allowing greater political freedom.

But her critics say she is showing the same authoritarian tendencies as Magufuli as she prepares to contest her first election as the ruling party’s presidential candidate.

The government says Tanzania is a stable democracy, and the poll will be free and fair.

GH¢1 fuel levy eight times worse than scrapped E-Levy – Bawumia

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Former Vice President and 2024 NPP presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has sharply criticised the NDC government for introducing what he calls a “Dumsor Levy” on fuel, describing it as a betrayal of campaign promises and far more punitive than the now-scrapped E-Levy.

Addressing party supporters in Cape Coast during the final leg of his nationwide “Thank You Tour” of the Central Region, Dr Bawumia accused the governing NDC of hypocrisy and deception.

How to pick the right one for your needs, plus top-rated brands to try

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Biotin supplements can support your skin, hair and nail health. Here is how to choose the right supplement for your needs.

Biotin isn’t just another vitamin. It is a beauty booster that your hair, skin, and nails have been craving. Known as vitamin B7, biotin fuels your body’s ability to produce healthy cells, keeping your locks luscious and your skin glowing.

Miss Earth Ghana To Launch ‘Waste To Purpose’ Campaign

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Winifred Esi Sam

 

The Eco Earth Foundation, led by Executive Director Gisela Gagakuma, will launch an innovative environmental campaign titled “Waste to Purpose”.

The initiative aims to address plastic pollution in the country through advocacy, education, and technology-driven recycling solutions.

In a significant collaboration, Miss Earth Ghana 2024, Winifred Esi Sam, is joining forces with a diverse group of Miss Earth International beauty queens from countries including Colombia, India, Bulgaria, Cabo Verde, Nigeria, the Philippines, Liberia, and Namibia for the campaign launch.

Together, they will spearhead a public awareness across Accra’s streets, schools, markets, and media platforms. The campaign has garnered support from key organizations such as the Office of the Mayor of Accra, the Forestry Commission, and the Ghana Tourism Authority, all of which are committed to engaging in sustainable development and community initiatives, including tree planting activities.

Miss Earth Ghana and the participating beauty queens, in a bid to empower local communities and promote sustainability, will collaborate with environmentally conscious companies like Trashy Bags Africa, known for its upcycled plastic fashion, and Wear Tie Dye, which focuses on sustainable fabric production and creativity.

Miss Esi Sam said the “Waste to Purpose” campaign aims to educate and inspire citizens, particularly the youth, about the importance of transforming waste into economic and creative opportunities. With a strong commitment to sustainability and youth-led innovation, this initiative seeks to mobilise communities across Ghana in the fight against plastic pollution.

“As the campaign unfolds, the Eco Earth Foundation and Miss Earth Ghana 2024 are poised to make a significant impact on environmental awareness and action in the country.”

 

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

MTN Ghana Launches 2025 Y’ello Care

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Stephen Blewett

 

MTN Ghana has launched the 2025 edition of it 21 Days of Y’ello Care initiative, a volunteerism campaign that seek to drive meaningful change across communities across the country.

Since its inception, the campaign has mobilised thousands of MTN employees to support impactful initiatives focused on education, health, youth development, and economic empowerment.

Each year, the campaign evolves to reflect the most pressing needs of society, while remaining grounded in its commitment to enable the benefits of a modern connected life for everyone.

This year’s theme, “Connecting at the Roots – Connecting communities through the use of digital tools,” responds to the ongoing challenge of digital exclusion, particularly in rural, remote, and underserved areas.

Speaking at the launch, CEO of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett stated that the most rewarding aspect of this 21-day initiative is the difference the initiative makes in people’s lives.

“My job has many facets, but my favorite part is visiting these projects and seeing firsthand how we are touching and changing lives. When I visited Aburi Presbyterian high school last year, I witnessed the impact we had, and it is heartwarming to see the difference we have made. That is what makes this initiative truly worthwhile,” he said.

Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Adwoa A, Wiafe, said the month-long initiative focuses on connecting communities through digital tools.

“We will be connecting on two levels, person-to-person and human-to-human. By doing so, we will not only provide digital skills training but also show our human side and concern for the issues that matter to our local communities. Let’s go out there and demonstrate the MTN way – with kindness, empathy, and a commitment to making a difference,” he said.

Adwoa Wiafe further stated that over the next 21 days, the initiative will roll up programmes which will engage people in all 16 regions, not just as employees, but as mentors and teachers and friends together.

“We will teach technical digital skills to young men and women, how small businesses go online, introduce farmers to mobile solutions and support ICT hubs are tools that open the door to the world. These are not one off gestures, they are part of our long term commitment to ensure every Ghanaian has a digital voice and a place in our national story,” she said.

 

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

‘Mohbad’s Issue Led To This Whole Madness’ – Peter Okoye Reacts To Allegation Of False Statement To EFCC

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Nigerian singer, Peter Okoye, has slammed his brothers, Paul and Jude Okoye, over the allegation of false statements to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Naija News reports that Jude’s lawyer told the Federal High Court in Lagos that Peter’s statement to the EFCC was full of lies, especially regarding his claims about not accessing Northside Music Ltd’s bank accounts and his academic credentials.

There is no ongoing recruitment

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The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has joined the many state institutions dispelling claims of ongoing recruitment.

The GAF in a statement said, “the general public is hereby informed that the Ghana Armed Forces is not undertaking any recruitments/enlistments yet.”

The security institution thus noted that any such advertisement or information of any form “is fake and should be ignored.”

Lead investigator provides evidence of how Adu Boahene channeled NSB’s funds to his private bank account

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Kwabena Adu Boahene slapped with 11 charges over alleged illegal transfer NSB’s GH¢49 million Kwabena Adu Boahene slapped with 11 charges over alleged illegal transfer NSB’s GH¢49 million

Frank Marshall Cromwell, the investigator in charge of the case of former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu Boahene, has presented evidence of how the accused allegedly transferred GH¢49 million (approximately $7 million) from the bureau’s account to a private account.

In his witness statement, sighted by GhanaWeb, Marshall Cromwell gave details of the said private bank account, which supposedly belongs to Adu Boahene, the first accused (A1) in the case, and his wife, the second accused (A2).

According to him, the GH¢49 million was transferred from NSB’s account numbered 1070030677849 at Fidelity Bank into an account of the Adu Boahenes at UBM Bank, under the account name, ‘BNC Communications Bureau Operations’ and with the account number, 0241424233018.

He added that monies were transferred from the NSB account via three cheques paid into the account of the Adu Boahenes, which was created three days after the cheques were written.

“This is how A1 diverted the GH¢49,100,000.00. As Director of BNC, A1 signed three different cheques which were drawn on BNC’s bank account number 1070030677849 with Fidelity Bank. The first cheque, which is numbered 020086, had the face value of GH¢27,100,000.00. The second and the third cheques are numbered 020089 and 020094 and had the face values of GH¢1,000,000.00 and GH¢21,000,000.00, respectively. The payee on each of the three cheques was simply described as ‘BNC Operations.

“All three cheques were then paid into the bank account number 0241424233018 at UBM Bank. This account bears the name ‘BNC Communications Bureau Operations’. Investigations have established that the account — ‘BNC Communications Bureau Operations’ — is owned by BNC Communications Bureau Limited, the private limited liability company which is owned and controlled by A1 and his wife, A2.

“Our investigations also established that BNC Communications Bureau Limited had two bank accounts with UBM Bank. One of the accounts, BNC Communications Bureau Limited (number 0151424233011), was opened on October 26, 2018. The three cheques in question were not deposited into this account. The other account, into which the cheques in question were deposited, was opened on February 5, 2020, just a day before the first of the three cheques was drawn and deposited. It is, therefore, clear to us that the bank account dubbed ‘BNC Communications Bureau Operations’ was opened solely and purposely for the diversion of the GH¢49,100,000.00,” parts of the statement read.



Adu Boahene and his wife

Marshall Cromwell, who is a Staff Officer at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), said that more than GH¢9.5 million of the money was later transferred to ISC Holdings.

ISC, an Israeli company, is the supposed counterparty to the NSB in the $7 million international contract, which was for the purchase of cyber defence system for Ghana.

The investigator also disclosed that the Adu Boahenes and their associate, Mildred Boateng, the third accused in the case (A3), withdrew the monies in their private account for their personal use.

“The bank records show that from the time the GH¢49,100,000.00 was lodged into ‘BNC Communications Bureau Operations’ bank account, A1, on February 6, 2020, made a bank transfer of the sum of GH¢9,537,500.00 — equivalent to US$1,750,000.00 — to ISC Holdings. No further payments were made to ISC Holdings from this account. A1 then went on a spending spree, making substantial cash withdrawals from the account for personal purposes, and sometimes instructing the bank to allow A3 to make cash withdrawals. This continued until the amount was significantly depleted,” he said.

He said that on March 2, 2024, Adu Boahene and his wife directed the bank to close the private accounts into which they had transferred the GH¢49 million, and transfer the remaining cash to an account numbered 015126227017, which is owned by their company, Advantage Solutions Limited, the 4th accused in the case (A4).

“Our investigation established that ISC Holdings Limited did not deliver the cyber defence system to the NSB, and that NSB does not have the cyber defence system in its inventory,” he added.

Read the full statement below:

BAI/VPO

Avoid Budget Blowouts – How Ghanaian Businesses Can Keep Cloud Costs Under Control

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The writer

 

Across Ghana’s growing digital economy, more businesses and government institutions are embracing cloud technology as a foundation for modern operations. From Accra to Kumasi, organisations are turning to the cloud for everything from data storage and application hosting to remote collaboration and security. But while the promise of cloud computing includes greater flexibility, easier scalability, and potential cost savings, many businesses are discovering that—without careful management—cloud expenses can escalate quickly and unexpectedly. For many companies, especially SMEs and public sector organisations working with tight budgets, this can be a serious concern.

Subscription models – A blessing or a budget burden?

Most cloud services—from Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS) to Google Cloud and even local data centre providers—use subscription-based pricing. You pay based on the number of users or how much you use the service. In Ghana, where budgeting tends to be done annually and with limited room for variation, this model can be tricky. Underestimating the number of users or keeping inactive accounts running can lead to bills that are difficult to justify. IT leads must regularly audit user access and service subscriptions. Deleting old user accounts and consolidating tools across departments can result in significant savings.

Save money by cleaning up digital clutter

Whether it’s a government agency storing outdated memos or a fintech company keeping logs of old transactions, data builds up quickly. And cloud storage, even when affordable, is not free. Businesses should encourage regular file reviews. Every quarter, staff can be asked to delete unnecessary files or archive infrequently used data to cheaper storage tiers. Tools like Microsoft OneDrive or SharePoint offer localised storage options and archiving features that can help. It’s a small step, but when multiplied across departments, the savings can be substantial.

Avoid leaving cloud systems running after hours

One of the easiest ways to lose money in the cloud is by leaving services running when they’re not in use. This is especially common in software development environments, where virtual machines and databases are often left active overnight or over the weekend. A Ghanaian health startup recently cut its monthly bill by 65percent simply by automating the shutdown of cloud services after working hours. That’s money that could go back into product development or customer engagement. With scheduled shutdown scripts or cloud automation tools, businesses can avoid paying for idle resources.

Embrace automation to do more with less

Labour costs in Ghana are relatively affordable compared to Western countries, but skilled IT professionals are still a valuable (and sometimes scarce) resource. Cloud automation—such as automatic server provisioning, daily backups, or monitoring—can reduce manual work and eliminate costly human errors. Whether you’re a telco managing thousands of customer records or a university offering remote learning services, automation ensures consistency and frees up your IT team for innovation instead of maintenance.

You’re not stuck with one cloud vendor

Just because your business started with one provider doesn’t mean you’re tied to them forever. Many Ghanaian organisations hesitate to switch vendors, often due to perceived complexity or lack of local support. However, cloud pricing changes often—and there may be better, more cost-effective plans available. Some cloud providers offer pricing benefits depending on where your data is hosted. Hosting in Africa (such as Microsoft’s data centres in South Africa) might provide better rates or data sovereignty compliance. It’s worth regularly reviewing your contract, comparing pricing tiers, or even negotiating directly with your provider or local reseller.

 

Looking ahead – Cloud for growth, not for gaps

Ghana is on the rise digitally. With government-led initiatives like Ghana.gov, growing tech ecosystems in East Legon, Spintex, and beyond, and local cloud experts increasingly available, the conditions are right for cloud transformation. But to make the most of the cloud, organisations must manage it wisely. Smart cloud use isn’t just a matter of technology—it’s about strategy. With good planning, regular reviews, and efficient management, Ghanaian businesses can harness the full potential of cloud computing without overstretching their budgets.

 

By Allen OLAYIWOLA

>>>the writer is a seasoned cloud architect and systems administrator with expertise in leading technical teams to create innovative platforms.

 

Diana Asamoah Allegedly Clashes With Prophet Over Sobolo Sales

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Gospel musician Diana Asamoah has reignited controversy on social media after calling out Prophet Adom Kyei Duah over the sale of “Sobolo” and other products in his church.

The outspoken singer criticised the preacher for what she described as using God’s name for business.

In response, Adom Kyei Duah issued a stern warning in a series of videos, accusing Asamoah of tarnishing his reputation and claiming that time would reveal who is truly called by God.

But Diana Asamoah has remained unfazed, describing the prophet’s warnings as empty threats. “I am not bothered because I know I am with God. No weapon formed against me shall prosper,” she stated. She also mocked the prophet for allegedly using her image on fake obituary posters, saying she is alive and not dying anytime soon.

Diana Asamoah further accused Adom Kyei Duah of being more business-minded than spiritual. “You can’t threaten me. We are all in this country and we shall see,” she said.

She also questioned his spiritual authority, saying, “Are you claiming to be the second Christ? Because the second Christ we are waiting for is not you.”

Nurses’ Strike Bites Nationwide –

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An empty OPD

 

HEALTH SERVICES across the country have come to a near standstill following the nationwide strike action by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), leaving patients stranded and struggling to access care.

GRNMA is protesting what it describes as a year-long delay by the Ministry of Health in implementing its reviewed Collective Agreement signed in May 2024.

According to the Association, the initial strike will be followed by a withdrawal of Outpatient Department (OPD) services from June 4 to 8, 2025. If the government fails to address their demands, the GRNMA has warned of a total withdrawal of all nursing and midwifery services starting June 9, 2025.

A visit to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital), showed that nurses at the Outpatient Department, the Antenatal and Child Health, Special Services, as well as Public Health Services have abandoned their post in demand for government to do the needful.

 

Volta Region

A visit to the hospital’s Outpatient Department and Family Care Unit on Wednesday at the Volta Regional Hospital in Hohoe revealed a grim scene where no nurses or midwives were at post, and patients were left unattended for hours.

In their absence, doctors and house officers have been forced to take on additional responsibilities, including taking vital signs, tasks usually handled by nurses.

However, the overwhelming number of patients has made it nearly impossible for the few available medical personnel to cope.

Efforts to speak with some of the doctors were unsuccessful, as they appeared visibly overburdened and preoccupied with attempting to provide emergency care under severe constraints.

In an interview with the Volta Regional Chairman of the GRNMA, Mr. Courage Kwame Kumah confirmed the full implementation of the strike in the region. He reiterated the Association’s call for government intervention, urging the public to support their demands for improved conditions of service.

“We are calling on government to prioritise the welfare of nurses and midwives. Our conditions of service must be urgently addressed to restore normalcy in healthcare delivery,” he said.

At the hospital’s Emergency Unit, frustrated patients and their relatives voiced their displeasure over the dire situation. Some recounted waiting for hours without receiving any medical attention.

 

Tamale

Some patients in Tamale in the Northern Region, have been left stranded due to the nationwide strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association.

At the main Outpatient Department of the Tamale Teaching Hospital, patients were left unattended due to the absence of nurses.

Patients who visited the facility for medical attention expressed their disappointment, as they were unable to access essential services.

They urged the government to urgently address the situation with the aggrieved nurses.

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, has withdrawn outpatient and emergency services in response to the government’s failure to implement agreed-upon conditions of service.

 

Govt Response

The ongoing strike, which has taken full effect across the country, has prompted urgent calls from civil society and patient advocacy groups for immediate government action to end the stalemate.

In a statement released by Tony Goodman, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, a high-level meeting took place on May 30, 2025, between the ministry and major stakeholders in the nursing and midwifery sector.

The meeting included representatives from the GRNMA, the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives (UPNMG), the Ghana Registered Midwives Association (GRMA), the National Association of Registered Midwives (NARM-G), the Psychiatric Nurses Association of Ghana (PAPNG), and the Nurses and Midwives Educators Society.

At the meeting, the unions presented a unified demand for the implementation of a Collective Agreement signed in 2024, which they claim has not been honoured. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured the stakeholders that their concerns would be addressed promptly.

While most of the associations agreed to continue offering services, the GRNMA maintained its position to go ahead with the strike, prompting the ministry to prepare for the disruption.

 

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke, Daniel K. Orlando, Volta & Eric Kombat, Tamale

National Security Finances Expose “Broken System”– Bright Simons

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Ghana’s national security architecture has come under intense scrutiny following explosive revelations from the Director of Finance at the National Signals Bureau (NSB), confirming what IMANI Africa’s Bright Simons described as a “totally BROKEN” system.

Simons, a well-known advocate for good governance and transparency, used the testimony of Ms. Edith Ruby Opokua Adumuah, Director of Finance at the NSB, to underscore what he sees as a total breakdown in financial and operational oversight within Ghana’s national security framework.

GH¢1 Energy Sector Levy to tackle $3.7bn debt — Finance Minister

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Parliament has passed the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill, 2025, to impose a GH¢1 on every litre of petroleum products to raise additional funds to defray the $3.7 billion energy sector debts.

The bill proposed an upward adjustment in the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy to raise additional revenue, GH¢5 billion annually on average, to support the payment of energy sector arrears, reduce legacy debt and ensure a stable power supply across the country.

The Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, laid the bill under a certificate of urgency last Tuesday.

It was read and referred to the Finance Committee for consideration, and the report was approved by the house the same day in the evening.

The Minority side of Parliament walked out of the House before its passage.

Rationale

Explaining the rationale behind the bill, Dr Forson told Parliament that the energy sector currently posed the greatest economic and fiscal threat to the country, warning that failure to address its mounting challenges could result in a full-blown crisis.

“The total energy sector debt as at the end of March 2025 stands at $3.1 billion. This amount includes debts owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), fuel suppliers and other stakeholders,” he said.

Dr Forson emphasised that the nation’s inability to honour its financial obligations to key players, such as ENI and Karpowership, resulted in the complete drawdown of two critical guarantees in 2024: a $512 million International Development Association (IDA) guarantee from the World Bank and a $120 million guarantee from the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).

LatexFoamPromo

The government, he said, would now need $632 million to restore those guarantees.

Dr Forson further stated that a minimum of $3.7 billion was required to clean up the energy sector’s overall indebtedness and reset the sector on a more stable path.

Highlighting the shift in the country’s electricity generation mix, Dr Forson said the country now heavily relied on thermal power to supplement hydroelectric sources. 

However, he revealed that the cost of liquid fuel for thermal generation was not currently factored into electricity tariffs, resulting in revenue shortfalls.

The Finance Minister further stated that including fuel costs in the current electricity pricing structure could lead to a 50 per cent hike in tariffs, which would significantly burden households and businesses. 

No extra cost

Therefore, the proposed levy increase, Dr Forson explained, was a more balanced alternative that would avoid passing costs directly onto consumers.

“This levy will serve as a dedicated source of funding to the power sector, and the proceeds will be earmarked for the procurement of essential fuel for power generation,” he said.

Dr Forson assured the House that the impact of the new levy on petroleum prices would be neutralised by the strong performance of the Ghana cedi, ensuring that consumers would not pay extra for petrol or diesel.

“Mr Speaker, I repeat, the impact will be absorbed by the gains made from the strong performance of the Ghana cedi, and this will mean that consumers will not have to pay extra for the price of petrol and diesel beginning today.

“Our simulations suggest that there will be no increase in  the ex-pump price of petrol and diesel in the next window, beginning today, if the levy is imposed,” he stated categorically.

Energy Minister

Commenting on the amended bill which is awaiting presidential assent, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, said proceeds from the levy would be used to support the procurement of liquid fuel to fire thermal plants.

He said that although the proceeds would not be enough to retire the entire Energy Sector debt, it would help to stabilise the power sector and avert a more severe crisis that would be costlier to the citizenry.

The law would not have a sunset clause but the government had put together a roadmap to resolve the issues.

“All the challenges identified in the sector are being addressed simultaneously.

We have also put in place measures to monitor the economy and progress.

We will continue to review this periodically to ensure that the people of Ghana are not short-changed,” Dr Jinapor stated. 

The Energy Minister emphasised that enough and wide consultations were done with stakeholders and Ghanaians ahead of the passage of the bill.

He said the consultations had resulted in the ideal way the challenge and the levy had been dealt with.

History

The inability of the state to ensure the payment of debts as fast as possible informed the introduction of the GH¢1 per litre.

This year, the government consolidated various levies in the ESLA, including the price stabilisation and recovery, and the energy sector debt recovery levies, into a single levy of GH¢0.95 (95Gp).

Before the consolidations this year, ESLA witnessed two amendments after it was first passed in 2015. After barely a year of implementation, the government lost power, and the new government made some changes.

First in 2017 to reduce the Public Lighting Levy from five per cent per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity to three per cent and the National Electrification Levy from five per cent per kWh to two per cent.

In 2019, the law was again amended to create a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to collateralise the inflow, resulting in the ESLA PLC Bond, to raise more funding to retire the debts in the energy sector.

Administered by KPMG, the ESLA PLC also had challenges, including additional costs regarding bond issuance and management fees.

Experts in the energy sector told the Daily Graphic that those measures notwithstanding, the government between 2017 and 2024 could not contain the energy sector debts, but rather left them to balloon from about $3 billion at the end of 2016 to $9 billion at the end of 2024, requiring smart thinking to resolve.

One of the sources, who pleaded condition of anonymity, said although liquid fuels were not captured in the energy sector price build-up, that had become the mainstay for keeping generation, while natural gas, which was part of the price build-up, had become stranded.

The source said it was therefore imperative to introduce the GH¢1 to meet the liabilities in the energy sector.

It added that the levy had been imposed on petroleum products because its collection was more efficient and transparent as opposed to levying it on energy infrastructure and generation.

Hubert Gyau apologizes after “Greener Pastures” comment sparks fan backlash

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Newly-signed Asante Kotoko midfielder Hubert Gyau has issued an apology following a controversial remark in which he stated his intention to seek greener pastures after just one season with the club.

Gyau, who recently joined Kotoko on a four-year deal from Berekum Chelsea, made the comments during an interview that quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism from the club’s passionate supporters on social media.

Many fans expressed disappointment, questioning the midfielder’s commitment to the club so early in his tenure.

In response to the backlash on AllSportsGh Xtra , a YouTube channel, Hubert Gyau, has now clarified his intentions and issued an apology, emphasizing his dedication to Asante Kotoko Football Club.

“I want to sincerely apologize for my earlier comments. It was never my intention to disrespect the club or its supporters. I am fully committed to giving my best and helping Asante Kotoko achieve success during my four-year stay,” he said.

The club is yet to make an official statement, but Gyau’s apology appears to be a step toward mending relations with the fans as preparations for the upcoming season continue.

“They Call Me Camavinga, But I Play Like Iniesta” — Gyau Describes His Style
Beyond the apology, Hubert Gyau used the opportunity to introduce himself to the Kotoko faithful, revealing both his football identity and personal nickname.

A Journey from Kintampo to the Baba Yara Stadium
Gyau also shared the story of his rise through the local football ranks to Ghana’s top-flight.

“I started my football journey at Kintampo FC, then moved to Unity FC in Ahafo Kenyasi. From there, I joined Nkoranza Warriors, which was later renamed Berekum City. I eventually earned a move to Berekum Chelsea, and now I’m proud to be with Asante Kotoko.”

Now wearing the red jersey, Hubert Gyau is eager to write a new chapter in his career and win over the hearts of Kotoko fans through action on the pitch.

The rise, fall and reinvention of Tiffany

Tiffany was once one of Ghana's most talked-about female musicians play videoTiffany was once one of Ghana’s most talked-about female musicians

Antoinette Tiffany Owusu, popularly known as ‘Itz Tiffany’, was once one of Ghana’s most talked-about female musicians.

From 2012 to around 2014, her name was nearly impossible to ignore in any conversation about the top female artistes in the country.

She gained widespread recognition in 2012 with her hit song ‘Fake London Boy’, which brought a fresh vibe to the Ghanaian music scene and positioned her as a game changer in an industry largely dominated by men.

Following the success of ‘Fake London Boy’, Itz Tiffany was signed to ‘Off Da Ground’, a record label owned by UK-based Ghanaian artist Fuse ODG.

Her career soared even higher after she featured on Fuse ODG’s global hit Azonto, which helped bring the genre to an international audience.

Itz Tiffany delivered several hits to the Ghanaian music industry, including Agyekoom featuring the late Castro, and Cotyledon, among others.

Tiffany’s career hit by 2014 sex tape leak

Tiffany’s promising career took a dramatic turn in November 2014 when a private sex tape was leaked online.

The video quickly circulated on social media and sparked widespread public criticism.

In interviews following the incident, Tiffany revealed that the video was recorded around 2008, long before her music career had taken off.

She expressed heartbreak over why such an old video would be released in 2014, seemingly with the intent to destroy everything she had worked for.

Following the scandal, her record label terminated her contract. Tiffany later stated that the incident left her emotionally devastated and pushed her into a period of depression.

She eventually stepped away from the music scene to focus on her mental health and personal healing.

More than one setback

The leaked tape was not the only adversity Tiffany endured. Years before her breakthrough hit, she was involved in a car accident that left her in a coma for several days.

In another troubling episode, Tiffany was allegedly robbed and blackmailed by a group of Nigerian students who had access to her nude photos and threatened to release them.

Tiffany’s attempt at a comeback

After some time away from the spotlight, Tiffany made efforts to revive her music career.

She released a single titled ‘Forgive’, produced by Master Garzy and Jayso.

The track reflected her emotional journey, expressing pain, growth, and a yearning for understanding.

Though it received some attention, it was evident that her career had lost the momentum it once enjoyed.

She later released another song titled Thankful, which focused on gratitude and survival, a heartfelt reflection of all she had endured and her appreciation for life.

Tiffany leaves music behind

Today, Tiffany is no longer active in the music industry. She has transitioned into business and now owns a lounge located in Spintex, Accra.

Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:

AK/EB

NDC youth in BAB appeal to President Mahama to appoint Nana Yaw Berimah to Gold Board

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The Concern Youth of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Bibiani-Anhwaiso-Bekwai (BAB) Constituency of the Western North Region have called on President John Dramani Mahama to consider appointing Nana Yaw Berimah the Constituency Chairman, to the Ghana Gold Board.

They expressed disappointment that Nana Berimah had been left out of the President’s appointment despite his nu­merous efforts and sacrifices to reclaiming the Bibiani-Anhwaiso-Bekwai Constituen­cy seat from the NPP after twenty years.

Algerian Ambassador to Ghana calls for reparation for colonial era injustices

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Accra, June 5, GNA-Mr. Mourad Louhaidia, Algerian Ambassador to Ghana, has reiterated the urgent need for reparations to address the lasting injustices metted out to Africans during the colonial era.

The Ambassador noted the prolong suffering endured by African people ranging from slavery, trade exploitation, apartheid and genocide resulting to numerous death and culture alienation.

The Algerian envoy said this at the launch of a photo exhibition on the ills of slavery and colonialism held at the African Union Office in Accra.

The Ambassador noted that demand for reparation was not merely a historical grievance but an inalienable right for African people.

The African Union, he said, had consistently advocated for this cause since its inception.

The Ambassador pointed out that the AU officially designated 2025 as the “Year of Reparation” and “Year of Justice for Africans Descent through Reparation.”

“The idea is that this right for reparation is an inalienable right for the African people for the harms and damages that they were subject,” Ambassador Lahadia stated.

He added that, “the colonial powers should compensate the African people for this harm.”

The Ambassador mentioned plans for a photo exhibition to visually demonstrate the historical suffering and underscore the legitimacy of the demand for reparations.

He explained that the exhibition aimed to educate younger and future generations about Africa’s painful past and the rationale behind the continent’s call for compensation.

“We want through this exhibition that the young and the future generation remember this suffering and understand why African countries are asking for reparation,” he said

He stressed that the exhibition would showcase the suffering of all African nations who had suffered colonialism and apartheid and various atrocities.

GNA

Edited by Christian Akorlie

Ghana’s economy, trade must be diversified 

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Switzerland’s Ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger, has called for greater economic diversification in Ghana, urging the country to expand its trade and production capacity beyond traditional exports.

Ghana and Switzerland have a long-standing bilateral relationship, especially in areas of trade, cocoa partnerships, and environmental collaboration.

However, Madam Giger believes this is the time for Ghana to add value to its local products and expand the presence of Ghanaian goods on international markets.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Ambassador Giger expressed her optimism about Ghana’s economic potential and encouraged the development of new sectors that could penetrate global markets.

“In boosting the economy, I feel that Ghana’s economy and trade should be more diversified,” she said. “I would be super happy if one day I could go to a Swiss market and buy clothes made in Ghana, handcrafts made in Ghana, or even chocolate made in Ghana.”

She also reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to environmental and climate cooperation with Ghana.

“We will continue our cooperation in environmental and climate protection, and I really hope other countries will see what we have done,” she noted.

“We learn from our experiences, and I hope Ghana will get praise for the work it has done with the EPA in leading some climate initiatives.”

Pay higher electricity tariffs or support fuel levy — Vanderpuye

After Guinea setback, EGA turns to Ghana: Strategic shift or coincidence?

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After having bauxite mining cancellation in Guinea, Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) now eyes Ghana to explore fresh bauxite-related opportunities. According to a report on June 4, the UAE-based aluminium major has inked an agreement with the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) to assess the feasibility of bauxite exploration in the West African country.

After Guinea setback, EGA turns to Ghana: strategic shift or coincidence?

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What’s in the deal?

Under the agreement signed with GIADEC, EGA aims to explore Ghana’s estimated 920 million tonnes of bauxite reserves in Ghana, spread across Nyinahin (700 million tonnes), Kyebi (160 million tonnes), and Awaso (60 million tonnes). Despite this vast potential, Ghana currently produces just 1.5 million tonnes annually.

Beyond exploration, EGA will also examine the potential for long-term offtake agreements with GIADEC and possible collaboration on rail and port infrastructure to support expanded production.

Commenting on the deal signed, Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: “This aligns well with EGA’s goal of diversifying our sources of upstream supply as we grow our metal production, including in the US as we progress our plans to develop a greenfield primary aluminium production plant as announced during the recent state visit to the UAE of President Trump. EGA is looking to double its bauxite production in the next few years and exploring multiple opportunities worldwide, and Ghana is amongst them.”

Strategy or coincidence?

While the timing of EGA’s move may appear coincidental, it seems more like a calculated strategic shift. The deal comes amid efforts by GIADEC’s Acting CEO, Mr. Reindorf Twumasi Ankrah, to attract foreign investment to help realise Ghana’s ambition of a fully integrated aluminium industry, an initiative projected to require over USD 6 billion in funding.

NDC’s ‘D-Levy’ far worse than E-Levy that was demonised – Ntim Fordjour

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Assin South MP Rev John Ntim Fordjour is the Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee Assin South MP Rev John Ntim Fordjour is the Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee

The Member of Parliament for Assin South and Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, has criticised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government over the recently increased Energy Sector Levy, dubbed the “Dumsor Levy” (D-Levy).

In a social media post on Friday, June 5, 2025, the MP accused the NDC of deceiving Ghanaians with the new levy, which he claims imposes a far heavier burden on citizens than the previously abolished Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy).

According to Rev Ntim Fordjour, the D-Levy charges Ghanaians GH¢1 on every litre of fuel, translating to a tax of GH¢83 for every GH¢1,000 worth of fuel purchased.

He compared this to the E-Levy, which imposed a GH¢10 charge on every GH¢1,000 sent via Mobile Money (MoMo).

The MP highlighted that while the E-Levy was widely criticised and eventually abolished, the D-Levy is a much larger financial burden — eight times higher, as noted by former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia during an NPP thank you tour.

“On E-Levy, you paid GH¢10 on every GH¢1,000 MoMo you sent, yet we all agreed it needed to be abolished. On D-Levy, you’ll pay GH¢83 on every GH¢1,000 of fuel you buy.

“Was D-Levy part of NDC’s manifesto? Would you have voted for NDC if they promised you that you’ll pay GH¢83 on every GH¢1,000 fuel you buy?” Rev Ntim Fordjour stated in his post.

The MP further argued that the D-Levy would have a ripple effect on the cost of living, as drivers and ‘okada’ riders are likely to pass on the additional costs to passengers.

Private car users, he added, would be even worse off.

“Drivers and okada riders will definitely pass this on to passengers. Private car users will be worse off. In the end, our citizens will be ripped off big time for the votes they cast for the NDC. People were unhappy with the GH¢10 levy on GH¢1,000, but now will be extremely frustrated having to pay GH¢83 levy on every GH¢1,000 fuel. NDC has disingenuously SCAMMED Ghana with D-Levy! NDC’s Dumsor Levy is far worse than E-Levy, that was demonised,” he added.

Rev Ntim Fordjour further criticised the NDC for denying the prevalence of power outages, locally referred to as “Dumsor,” and for failing to provide a load-shedding schedule when demanded by Ghanaians.

He claimed that the NDC had promised to abolish Dumsor but instead introduced the D-Levy to fund efforts to keep the lights on, a move he described as a betrayal of public trust.

The Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed by Parliament under a certificate of urgency on June 2, 2025, and has sparked some discontent among Ghanaians.

The law imposes a hike of GH¢1 on the existing levy on petroleum.

BAI/AE

Govt strategically targeting stable cedi to resume debt payments – Cudjoe Kuagbedzi

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The Head of Finance at Merban Capital, Nelson Cudjoe Kuagbedzi, has described the government’s current efforts to stabilise the Ghana Cedi as a deliberate and strategic move to resume debt servicing under improved fiscal conditions.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Mr Kuagbedzi noted that the government appears to be working within a targeted exchange rate band it considers favourable for managing its cashflows and honouring debt obligations.

“This means that they have a target rate that they want to settle on, and they feel that within that target rate, they can comfortably proceed to start paying debt. So, I think it is a well-calculated strategy by the government,” he said.

According to him, this approach signals an intentional effort to create macroeconomic conditions that support predictable fiscal planning and external payments.

“They are clearly trying to intervene in one way or the other to settle the exchange rate within a band, which will be comfortable for the government based on their own cashflow projection, to start paying their debt,” Kuagbedzi added.

He urged the government to seize the current relative economic stability as an opportunity to begin honouring its financial commitments.

“This is the time for them to start paying their debt,” he stressed.

Mr Kuagbedzi’s comments come in the wake of President John Dramani Mahama’s recent engagement with the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), where he projected that the Ghana Cedi would stabilise within a GH¢10 to GH¢12 range to the US dollar. The President described this band as “a fair value” that balances the interests of both exporters and importers while safeguarding macroeconomic gains.

The Mahama administration is working on a broader economic recovery plan, which seeks to rebuild investor confidence, protect export competitiveness, and enhance fiscal discipline.

Read also……

Pay higher electricity tariffs or support fuel levy — Vanderpuye

SheDreams Africa promotes inclusive menstrual hygiene education in Tema West

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Accra, June 5, GNA – SheDreams Africa, a Non-Governmental Organisation, in collaboration with the Tema West Girls Education Directorate, has organised an inclusive engagement at the Tetteh Ocloo State School for the Deaf as part of activities to mark Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025

The engagement aimed to promote menstrual hygiene education and awareness for all students.

On the theme: “Together for a Period Friendly World,” the student-led session created a safe space for open discussions on menstruation, hygiene management, and stigma-breaking—drawing participation from both boys and girls.

It underscored the importance of inclusivity in creating a world where every child could manage their menstruation safely and with confidence Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed globally on May 28, serves as a platform to advocate for better menstrual health, education, and access to products.

Ms. Theresa Ansaa Anafi, Co-founder of SheDreams Africa, described the event as one of the most meaningful yet to promote menstrual hygiene.

“Over the last six years, we have worked closely with the Tema West Girls Directorate to champion menstrual hygiene using various innovative approaches,” she recalled.

She said the engagement was a testament to the progress being made toward inclusivity, education, and empowerment for every child, regardless of their background or ability.

A highlight of the day was the enthusiastic involvement of male students, who confidently discussed menstruation and menstrual hygiene, reflecting a growing shift toward inclusive, gender-aware education.

Students also delivered drama performances and led interactive sessions, showcasing their understanding and commitment to menstrual health topics.

The engagement was interspersed with health talks, one-on-one counseling, and the distribution of sanitary pads and hygiene packs.

Ms. Grace Otoo, School Nurse, Ocloo State School for the Deaf, and founder of the Grace Foundation, who emphasized the importance of access and dignity, said, “Menstrual hygiene is critical, especially for our girls with disabilities.”

Through my foundation, she said, they “ensure that every girl who needs a pad can walk into the clinic and get one without shame.”

Ms. Otoo added, “Today’s support from SheDreams Africa strengthens our commitment to ensuring no girl is left behind.”

Ms. Yakoba Otoo, Girl Child Education Officer for Tema West, praised the long-standing partnership with SheDreams Africa.

She said, “Since 2019, their presence in our schools has made a tremendous impact — not just through donations, but in how they interact and educate our learners.”

GNA

Edited by Christian Akorlie

‘I have every right to criticise NPP’s shabby work’ – Captain Planet to critics

Ghanaian musician, Captain Planet Ghanaian musician, Captain Planet

Ghanaian musician, Captain Planet, has responded to critics who slammed him for supporting the newly introduced GH¢1 petroleum levy imposed by the NDC government.

In a series of posts shared on X, on June 4, 2025, Captain Planet defended his stance, asserting that he has every right to criticise the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he described as their “shabby” performance in government.

According to the musician, he was an active supporter of the NPP before they came into power, but their disappointing performance has prompted him to now throw his support behind the NDC.

“I campaigned for Nana Addo to become president, and I paid all my taxes to support his presidency.

“Today, Mahama is the current president, and I will support his policies for a better Ghana, the same way I did for Nana Addo,” he stated.

Captain Planet also took a swipe at Ghanaians who continuously criticise the government, describing them as “ungrateful.”

He stated that such individuals should appreciate the government’s efforts, especially the recent reduction in fuel prices and the strengthening of the cedi.

“Never try to solve Ghanaian problems for them. Leave them to suffer, because some of them do not like good things.

“A few months ago, the whole nation was crying about the high prices of goods and services, begging for the cedi to catch up with the dollar, yet they went to the polling station and voted out of anger,” he added.

Background

On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, Parliament approved the Energy Sector Fee (Amendment) Bill 2025, which imposes a GH¢1 levy on petroleum products.

The levy is intended to generate revenue to help pay off Ghana’s longstanding energy sector debt and ensure a stable supply of electricity.

JHM/EB

Meanwhile, watch as victims of June 3 disaster decry 10 years of neglect by the state:

Austerity measures by government in sharp contrast with the 1992 Constitution – Kwesi Pratt

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Kwesi Pratt Jr, the Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper Kwesi Pratt Jr, the Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper

The Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jr, has stated that austerity measures, including the freeze on public sector recruitments by the government, are in sharp contrast with constitutional provisions on the economy and how it impacts the ordinary citizen.

Situating his argument on Article 35(1) of the 1992 Constitution in a post on his X account, on June 5, 2025, he asserted that the provision advocates for a relief of the working class and the vulnerable.

According to him, the governing laws of the country sought to place a responsibility on the government to protect the ordinary citizen, a responsibility that appears to have been overlooked.

“My casual and occasional reading of the 1992 Constitution has proved to be very useful. This morning, I paid particular attention to the constitutional provisions on the economy, and they have been very revealing. Article 36 (I) is particularly revealing.

“It states that the state shall take all necessary action to ensure that the national economy is managed in such a manner as to maximize the rate of economic development and secure the maximum welfare, freedom, and happiness of every person in Ghana and to provide adequate means of livelihood and suitable employment and public assistance to the needy,” the post stated.

He noted that it appears the government has shifted the focus of exploring ways to ease the burden of the ordinary citizen, particularly, the vulnerable, to making profits.

According to him, the shift, which he attributed to successive governments’ alignment with neo-colonial leaders, has been the driver of the unfortunate development.

He stressed that the direction taken by the government is in breach of the provision expressly stated in the 1992 Constitution.

Read full post below:

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

We won’t pile on more taxes, transparency is the way – Mahama

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John Dramani Mahama is the President of Ghana John Dramani Mahama is the President of Ghana

President John Dramani Mahama has reassured the business community that his administration will not resort to increasing taxes as a solution to Ghana’s financial challenges.

Speaking to business leaders during a post-event reflection on the Kwahu Business Forum, Mahama emphasized the importance of fairness and transparency in taxation to encourage compliance and support economic growth.

“I noticed that when the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) was introduced, everyone applauded, you applauded the GRA. The GRA is your friend. I can assure you they are your friend, and they will become even more business-friendly,” he said, highlighting the need for a cooperative relationship between the tax authority and the private sector.

Mahama criticized the idea of imposing more taxes, calling it counterproductive. “I believe the solution to our situation is not to pile on more taxes.”

“The solution is to make taxes more transparent and fair to encourage greater compliance. If you keep adding more taxes, people will inevitably find ways to avoid them,” he explained.

He cited the controversial Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) introduced by the previous government as a cautionary example.

“That was the same argument we made against the previous government’s introduction of the E-Levy. We warned that people would find ways to avoid paying it — and they did.”

“Instead of addressing the financial challenges as promised, people simply withdrew funds from their digital wallets and reverted to using cash to sidestep the new levy,” Mahama said.

This story was earlier published on May 2, 2025.

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NDC to rename headquarters after Rawlings [Photos]

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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is taking bold steps to immortalise its founder, the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, with sweeping proposals aimed at embedding his legacy into the party’s institutional identity.


At the 46th anniversary of the June 4 uprising, held at Agormanya Lasi Park in the Eastern Region, NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah announced that the party’s Functional Executive Committee (FEC) has approved a series of proposals—pending ratification by the National Executive Committee (NEC)—to honour Rawlings’ towering influence.

Top among these is the renaming of the party’s national headquarters to 


“Party headquarters across the world are named after their founders. Ghana cannot be an exception. We will begin the process to rename our national headquarters as Rawlings House,” Asiedu Nketiah declared to thunderous applause.

He also revealed plans to amend the party’s constitution to designate June 22, Rawlings’ birthday, as a significant party day. Additionally, the entire month of June is proposed to be commemorated annually as 

Asiedu Nketia did not hold back in expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of Revolutionary Square, located opposite the Jubilee House.


“Please establish a planning committee to advise on how we can get Revolutionary Square back to its original status. If we need to contact the Museums and Monuments Board, it must be done.

“It doesn’t just represent a monument—it teaches our youth a lesson,” he charged.

The June 4 uprising, led by then Flight Lieutenant Rawlings in 1979, remains a cornerstone of the NDC’s political heritage, symbolising the values of accountability, discipline, and revolutionary change.

The proposed reforms are seen as a major attempt by the party to institutionalise this legacy for future generations.

TRANSPORT FARE WAHALA

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The post TRANSPORT FARE WAHALA appeared first on .

A worthy pursuit – Graphic Online

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In the misguided understanding and name of democracy, we have tolerated lawlessness and impunity, especially when it comes to land use planning and the built environment.

For too long, we have remained silent or lukewarm as waterways have been blocked with structures.

Half-hearted attempts, tinged with excessive partisanship and downright hypocrisy have combined to render us inactive as millions endure man-made disasters annually.

As we say in Ghana, for once, the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, led by the Regional Minister, Ms Linda Akweley Ocloo, is demonstrating a rare and bold commitment that the days of political rhetorics are over and this is the time for action to stop the needless and avoidable flooding in many parts of the Accra Metropolis, with the determination to demolish all structures on waterways and nature reserves.

Our elders encourage us to support good deeds amid actions by submitting that, “dee oforo duapa na yepia no,”  which finds its cross-cultural equivalence in the English rendition as the one who climbs a good tree deserves a push.

There is also the Ashanti dimension that “dee orewehwe adee ako Kotoko no, yennye no aboro”, meaning the one seeking the good and progress of Asanteman must not be undermined, left alone, nor abandoned. It only means such effort must be appreciated and supported.

Council

The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council is doing a marvellous job, starting with the reclamation of the Ramsar Site at Sakumono, guided by the philosophy to do good to all irrespective of political affiliation and without recourse to whose ox is gored.

There is equally the pledge and commitment to demolish all structures obstructing drainage systems in any part of the metropolis if such structures obstruct the free flow of rainwater and lead to flooding.

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Indeed, we need such rare and bold initiatives to resolve the menace once and for all throughout the country, to restore discipline in planning in the built environment. It is even more heartening that efforts are also being pursued to decongest streets and major roads for trading activities.

Nii Adjiri Blankson is one of the most effective Chief Executives of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly.

He almost cleared the streets of Accra of all manner of trading activities and established the Circle-Odawna market to cater for displaced traders from the Central Business District of Accra.

Just as he was about to celebrate his achievement amidst public appreciation and recognition, the effort was torn into shreds because of a by-election. 

Consequently, all the goodwill and praises that the public heaped on him evaporated, and instead of trust, there was cynicism.

Mr Henry Quartey was hailed by many for standing his ground in instilling discipline in the Greater Accra Region.

He moved to the Sakumomo Ramsar Site and started to stop developments in parts of the area to restore the natural habitat and help contain flooding. 

When many hailed his effort with some proffering to the President to move him to other regions, he was brought down through internal partisan dissent.

He never regained his composure and lost whatever trust the public had placed in him.

He also courted enmity baselessly from landlords in the area.

The regional minister must be commended for moving the rhetoric into action.

We cannot promote the interests of a few individuals against our collective growth and development.

Some of the structures that Henry Quartey could not touch have now been razed to the ground.

It seems most of us have come to appreciate that it does not make sense for the majority to suffer unjustifiably because of the comfort of a few.

It is reasonable to allow individuals to enjoy their fundamental human rights only when their actions do not have  adverse effects on the majority.

But for as long as the majority could suffer needless and  irreparable damage, the few must be held in check because beyond rules and regulations, democracy is anchored on numbers.

It appears to me that this time round, the twists that encourage the media to frame such exercises as misguided and inhuman are absent.

Apart from a few individuals who initially shouted themselves  hoarse and expressed regret for voting for the National Democratic Congress, whether their claims have foundation or otherwise, the outcry has been muted.

Concerns are now about whether the exercise would be sustained  to cover all parts of the region, and by extension throughout the country.

It is no longer why the destruction of life-long investment and where the displaced people would lay their heads but that we must ensure that the exercise is carried out without discrimination of any form, especially from political party angles.

Because of our past history of partisan fanaticism and nepotism, my appeal is for us to make hay whilst the sun shines and to strike hard when the iron is hot.

There is so much goodwill and overwhelming  support for the exercise to clear waterways of structures and our city centres of street hawkers.

We must thus not fail by giving our unflinching and unqualified support to the decongestion and demolition exercises.

We must all be at ad idem and united for a common purpose.

Now is the time to spend, and pay your debts – Analyst

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Nelson Cudjoe Kuagbedzi, Head of Finance at Merban Capital, is calling on the Ghanaian government to begin settling its debts, stressing that the current economic environment offers a crucial window of opportunity to act decisively.

His remarks follow a recent projection by President John Dramani Mahama, who predicted that the Cedi would stabilise within the GH¢10 to GH¢12 range to the US dollar — a level he described as fair and sustainable for both exporters and importers.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Kuagbedzi said: “I think that this is the time for the government to start paying its debt. This is because we may not know what happens tomorrow.”

He highlighted that the current exchange rate stability is now being driven more by domestic policy decisions than by global market dynamics.

“The argument has clearly shifted from external factors to the government’s own internal factors,” he noted.

Drawing on past narratives about the Cedi’s performance, Kuagbedzi added: “When the Cedi was appreciating, we all said it was a result of the Trump tariff war with China and other countries. But we know now that we are no longer talking about the tariff war — we are talking about the government’s own initiative or policies to stabilise the Cedi within a certain band.”

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has dismissed claims that the recent strength of the Cedi is due to a lack of government spending. Addressing Parliament on June 3, he defended the government’s fiscal discipline while assuring that spending remains ongoing but responsible.

“It is not true that the government is not spending. We have ended that era of reckless spending. We are spending prudently. The NDC will not spend recklessly. We will spend according to what we have,” Dr. Forson said.

Ideal value of Cedi should range between GH¢10 and GH¢12 to US dollar

Arsenal in talks with Partey over new deal

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 Arsenal is in talks with Thomas Partey to extend the midfielder’s contract, the club said yesterday, while confirming the departure of a slew of other players including Jorginho and Raheem Sterling.

Partey’s contract is due to expire on June 30 and Arsenal said “discussions are ongoing.”

The Ghana international has been with Arsenal since 2020.

Italy midfielder, Jorginho, Scotland left back, Kieran Tierney, Brazilian goal­keeper, Neto, and Sterling at one stage a key player for England are among those confirmed to be leaving Arsenal.

Sterling was only on a season-long loan from Chelsea.

Arsenal has just finished second in the Premier League for the third straight season. —AP

Africa to drive economic growth over the next ten years – Yofi Grant

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Video | Africa to drive global economic growth over the next ten years – Yofi Grant

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The Spirit of Hiplife lives as Ghana’s beat of identity and influence

How Ghana’s new generation artists are powering a genre that changed everything

The early 1990s were a transformative period in Ghana. As democracy re-emerged and youth culture began to redefine itself, the music scene witnessed a shift. Highlife, once the country’s dominant genre, was losing its spark among younger audiences looking for something that spoke directly to their reality.

Health Minister led delegation to secure FDA’s boss appointment as Director-General of African Medicines Agency

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Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health and Member of Parliament for Juaboso, led a delegation to secure the appointment of Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority, as the Director-General of the African Medicines Agency (AMA) during the ongoing 2nd Ordinary Session of the Conference of State Parties in Kigali, Rwanda.

This prestigious appointment, achieved through a competitive process, marks a proud and historic moment for Ghana and the entire continent.

It highlights Dr. Darko’s exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to enhancing public health and regulatory systems across Africa.

The Minister expressed his deep appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for his strong support and leadership throughout this process.

Mr. Akandoh congratulated Dr. Mimi Darko and Team Ghana for their incredibly successful campaign.

The AMA was established by the African Union on November 5, 2021, with the primary objective of improving access to quality, safe, and effective medical products across the continent.

Its creation aims to facilitate the regulation and oversight of essential medicines at a continental level while promoting collaboration among African countries and regions.

The Agency’s mission is to provide leadership in creating an enabling regulatory environment for the pharmaceutical sector in Africa, ensuring that the continent’s population has access to essential medical products and technologies.

KA

Pay higher electricity tariffs or support fuel levy — Vanderpuye

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The National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, has urged Ghanaians to rally behind the newly approved GHS1 fuel levy, warning that without it, the alternative could be a 50% increase in electricity tariffs.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, June 5, Vanderpuye described the levy as a proactive and necessary measure to generate revenue for stabilising power supply without directly burdening consumers through increased electricity pricing.

“This levy is meant to resolve a problem that we have created ourselves, because if we do not do that, realistically, what we are saying is that we must pay 50% more for electricity. You would want to pay 50% more for electricity, or you would contribute to the 1 cedi, or, cumulatively, we can resolve the problem instead of shifting into the pricing of electricity,” he explained.

The Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025—passed by Parliament on June 3—introduces a GHS1 per litre charge on petroleum products. The government expects to raise approximately GHS5.7 billion through the levy to address mounting energy sector debts and ensure the steady procurement of fuel for thermal power plants.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson revealed that the energy sector is burdened with a $3.1 billion debt, with an additional $3.7 billion required to clear arrears. Furthermore, $1.2 billion will be needed to secure fuel supplies for the 2025 fiscal year.

Vanderpuye emphasised that the goal is not to add pressure on citizens but to prevent the return of erratic power supply—popularly known as dumsor—which would plunge households and businesses into uncertainty.

“It is either tariffs or taxes. So we thought that there is a need for us to have this tax to generate revenue to meet the demands, so that we do not increase the tariff,” he said.

GWL to prosecute illegal water connection offenders

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The Management of Ghana Water Ltd. (GWL), Accra West Region, has taken a decisive action to curb illegal water connections that continue to affect its operations. Following a recent detection exercise, the Region uncovered nearly 1,500 cases of illegal connections across its 12 operational Districts between the last quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025.

In a show of goodwill, and in line with its commitment to serving the public interest, the Company extended a grace period to these illegal water users, offering them an opportunity to voluntarily come forward and regularise their connections without facing legal penalties. To date, over 800 individuals have failed to heed this call despite multiple reminders.

These illegal connections do not only deprive GWL of the much-needed revenue but also contribute to water losses and service disruptions for law-abiding customers.

As a result, GWL Accra West Region has resolved to initiate legal proceedings against these non-compliant individuals. The Company will work closely with the Ghana Police Service to ensure that all offenders face the full force of the law.

Illegal water connections and related infractions are acts of theft and criminality that threaten the sustainability of the Company. GWL will not allow the actions of a few to undermine the hard work of its staff or the rights of its loyal customers.

Hence, those who fail to regularise their connections will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

Management continues to encourage the public to report all instances of illegal connections in their communities, as it remains committed to ensuring equitable water distribution and improving service delivery for all Ghanaians.

Call Center Numbers: 030 221 8240, 020 738 5088, 020 738 5089, 020 738 5090.

0800 40 000 Toll-free line on Telecel mobile and landlines only.


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Prof. Bokpin believes stabilizing the cedi at GH₵10–12 is the right approach

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Economist and Professor of Finance at the University of Ghana, Godfred Bokpin, has described stabilising the cedi between GH₵10 and GH₵12 as the right path for Ghana’s economy, emphasising the need for predictability over sudden fluctuations.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show during a discussion on cedi value Prof. Bokpin noted that the Central Bank had long aimed to manage the exchange rate, even though it was not initially communicated to the public.

“I have indicated much earlier that the central bank was targeting the exchange rate. They didn’t want to communicate that to the market at the initial stage, so it was not just a more recent meeting where they decided on it. They knew largely where they were heading to,” he explained.

He added that the recent appreciation of the cedi was not entirely due to natural market forces but also a result of direct interventions.

“That is why we said that what we witnessed in terms of the strengthening of the local currency was not just the forces of demand and supply. There were some interventions to cause the strengthening,” he said.

Prof. Bokpin argued that the pace of appreciation was too aggressive, making it difficult for businesses and the broader economy to adjust effectively.

“We were confirmed that the rate of facilitation was too aggressive to enable planning and the entire economy to adjust to the strengthening of the currency. And to that extent, you could not describe that as stability. That was more of a disruption. The disruption could cause negative or positive effects, and it was very difficult for people to play along or even plan. It was quite unsettling,” he added.

He revealed that some stakeholders had already anticipated that the cedi would eventually settle around GH₵10, give or take, as early as a month prior. For him, the key going forward is to ensure genuine and lasting stability.

“It’s also good that there’s now some level of clarity that yes, we need to stabilise beyond the aggressive strengthening. We need to stabilise it. Stability is preferred over swings whether appreciation or depreciation. It’s neither good for businesses nor for central banking in the first place,” he said.

Prof. Bokpin also clarified that economic stability does not imply a fixed exchange rate, but rather predictable and moderate variations.

“Of course, we also do know that stability in economics is not the same as the same price or fixed price over time. We still expect that there will be some kind of variation in the rate, but it should not be significant enough to cause disruptions or uncertainty when it comes to planning,” he noted.

He cautioned against celebrating the cedi’s recent strengthening too quickly, pointing out that it came with trade-offs for both the private sector and government.

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

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

Ghanaians must sacrifice or face Dumsor – Vanderpuye warns

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The National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, has sounded a strong warning that Ghana risks sliding back into nationwide power outages popularly known as dumsor if citizens reject the newly introduced GHC1 fuel levy.

Speaking on  Breakfast Daily on Channel One TV on Thursday, June 5, he stressed that while many Ghanaians are currently celebrating a drop in fuel prices, the future of Ghana’s energy security depends on whether citizens are willing to contribute to sustaining the sector through this levy.

According to Vanderpuye, the energy sector is under serious financial strain, and without a stable source of funding, power producers may struggle to maintain supply, emphasising that the levy is not a punishment, but a proactive solution designed to protect Ghanaians from the harsh economic and social consequences of blackouts.

“In this period where we are enjoying some joy from the fact that the price of fuel has slumped from 16 to under 12 cedis. This is the time when we are asking Ghanaians to make some sacrifices, such as a cedi, to keep the power on.

“If we don’t, and we say let us continue with the merry making, let’s continue enjoying the benefit of the prudent economic measures that have brought the fuel down, We don’t prepare for tomorrow as the ant does; what will happen is that in the next few days, amid our enjoyment, we will be hit by the reality of dumsor,” he said.

His caution follows the passage of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025 by Parliament. The bill introduces a GHS1 increase per litre of fuel, a move projected to generate GHS5.7 billion annually. These funds are earmarked to settle mounting debts in the energy sector and ensure a consistent power supply across the country.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson revealed that Ghana’s energy sector currently faces a debt burden of $3.1 billion, with an estimated $3.7 billion required to fully clear all arrears. Additionally, the government needs $1.2 billion to procure fuel for thermal power generation in the year 2025 alone.

Dr. Forson described the levy as a lifeline for the country’s electricity infrastructure, pointing out that energy producers depend on timely payments to operate.