A multi-stakeholder committee has been inaugurated to coordinate national efforts aimed at eliminating child labour in Ghana’s tree crops sector. 

Known as the Child Labour Implementation and Review Committee (CLIRC), the body was launched by the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) under the Tree Crops Diversification Project, in collaboration with the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and other key institutions.

The CLIRC brings together representatives from several ministries and agencies, including Mrs. Florence Quartey (Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection), Mrs. Esther Ofori Agyeman (Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations), Mrs. Freda Faah (Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development), Mr. Brian Tsikpor (Office of the Head of Local Government Service), Mr. Andrews Tagoe (General Agricultural Workers’ Union), and Mr. Shaibu Muniru (Ministry of Food and Agriculture).

Specialists from the TCDA on the committee include Dr. Rita Owusu Amankwah (Social Development Specialist), Ms. Annabelle Pwalia (Gender Specialist), and Mr. Kingsley Agyeman (Environmental Specialist). COCOBOD is also represented by its Social Development Specialist, Gender Specialist, Environmental Specialist, and a Monitoring and Evaluation Officer.

According to Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, Chief Executive Officer of the TCDA, the CLIRC will act as the central coordinating body to spearhead efforts in public education, stakeholder engagement, policy alignment, and the implementation of sustainable interventions.

“Combating child labour requires a collective effort. The CLIRC is not just a formality—it is a strategic engine to drive real, lasting change for vulnerable children. We must work together to secure a safe, dignified, and productive future for every child in Ghana’s agricultural value chain,” he said.

The committee’s formation is a response to worrying data from the International Labour Organization (ILO), which shows that more than 20% of children aged 5 to 14 and nearly 24 per cent of those aged 15 to 17 in Ghana are engaged in child labour, especially in agriculture.

The committee will operate in five priority regions—Bono, Bono East, Western North, Eastern, and Savannah—covering 11 high-risk districts. It has been tasked with monitoring child labour trends, coordinating public education campaigns, aligning national policies with international standards, and implementing practical interventions to protect children.

Dr. Rita Owusu Amankwah, Social Development Specialist at TCDA, stressed the importance of community involvement.

“We’re forging strong collaborations with municipal authorities, civil society groups, and community leaders. Public education, stakeholder commitment, and consistent engagement are at the heart of the CLIRC’s strategy,” she stated.

COCOBOD’s Sena Yawa Tabbicca, also a social development expert, praised the initiative, saying: “This committee couldn’t have come at a better time. The protection of children must be central to Ghana’s agricultural future, and this is a significant leap toward that goal.”

The CLIRC will also support farmer training programmes, facilitate school enrolment campaigns, and promote social protection schemes targeting vulnerable families. It is also expected to advise on child-friendly agricultural practices and act as a watchdog for child welfare across the sector.

The launch is seen as a step forward in Ghana’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 8.7, which calls for the end of child labour in all its forms.

Government has officially commenced a comprehensive review of its Value Added Tax (VAT) regime, aiming to simplify the system and improve the business environment across the country.

This development was confirmed during a high-level meeting between Ghanaian officials and Wencai Zhang, Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer of the World Bank Group.

During the engagement, Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, outlined the country’s commitment to reforming the VAT system in close collaboration with international partners.

Dr. Forson noted that a Technical Assistance Mission from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is currently in Ghana, working alongside local authorities to support the review process.

He acknowledged that the current effective VAT rate of 21.9%, one of the highest in Africa, has contributed to compliance difficulties and inefficiencies for businesses.

“We are fully aware of the challenges posed by the existing VAT structure,” Dr. Forson said.

“That is why we are undertaking a complete overhaul of the system. I can assure our partners and the Ghanaian public that this reform process will be concluded before the main budget is presented in November.”

The initiative is seen as a crucial step in improving tax compliance, enhancing revenue mobilization, and making the tax system more business-friendly.

The World Bank expressed support for Ghana’s reform efforts and reiterated its commitment to working closely with the government to achieve a more efficient and equitable tax regime.

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.

Chinese manufacturers have flooded social media with videos and evidence claiming they are behind the production of most luxury brands sold in the U.S. and other parts of the world.

From popular brands like Hermès, Nike, Louis Vuitton, and Adidas, the manufacturers assert that these items are manufactured and assembled in China.

According to them, luxury brands simply add their logos to the products and determine the price, while the actual manufacturing takes place in China.

Social media users have expressed shock and disbelief following these revelations, which come amid the ongoing trade war between China and the U.S., where both countries are going “band for band” with the imposition of tariffs.

So far, the two countries have imposed more than 100% tariffs on imports from each other.

While some users believe the videos are part of a trade gimmick, others are convinced that China is indeed behind the production of many global luxury brands.

They argue that the only distinctive feature is the logo placed on items like bags, shoes, and clothing.

However, some users remain skeptical, arguing that despite China’s ability to replicate luxury brands, there is still a noticeable difference in the quality of the original goods.

See some of the reactions below:

Packing bags for Nigerian customers. pic.twitter.com/dclIJqodbO

— Onye Nkuzi (@cchukudebelu) April 13, 2025

China just killed the luxury goods industry

It’s gone, there is no coming back😂

Thread pic.twitter.com/XuWZMZ8Ot0

— Norma Kay (@realnorma_kay) April 13, 2025

China TikTok is so messy rn Because now that the Chinese government legalize Counterfeit products of all American goods because of the tariffs their now exposing a lot of Big brands and how their stuff is manufactured and encourages you to buy them in House China for cheaper pic.twitter.com/GLftzEnF3y

— Klair-O-Spinach ( Saint Era) (@ClairoSpinach) April 12, 2025

China is the perfect example of why you don’t mess with the quiet kid in class. The whole time they’ve been plotting.

— Collins Timbela🛋️ (@collinstimbela) April 13, 2025

China is the only country in history to become an economic superpower without war or dropping bombs

I have no reason to hate China. China is not our enemy. Our enemy is the criminal ruling class

— Revolutionary Blackout🥋 (@SocialistMMA) April 12, 2025

China is the only country in history to become an economic superpower without war or dropping bombs

I have no reason to hate China. China is not our enemy. Our enemy is the criminal ruling class

— Revolutionary Blackout🥋 (@SocialistMMA) April 12, 2025

I’m not saying the prices can be justified I’m saying them TikTok niggas Dey want take pass killers dema eye top.

The very good quality ones they give to Hermes so Hermes can sell for $50K aren’t the ones they will let you put your name on for $1K. https://t.co/3Q6uQZmhOt

— Hazel Kaizoku (@meister_kwame) April 14, 2025

Chinese manufacturers reveal that luxury brand goods they produce, labeled as fake, are genuine. They are the suppliers. 😂

— XOLI (@Undlunkulu_Xoli) April 13, 2025

Apps like TikTok are quietly dismantling decades of propaganda.

For years, Americans were told China was a backwards, authoritarian, third-world country and that socialism only leads to failure. But now, younger generations can see the truth with their own eyes—Chinese cities… pic.twitter.com/41Ad6eV22U

— #MakeChange (@4evercontrarian) April 12, 2025

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

SSD/MA

Dr Edwin Alfred Nii Obodai Provencal, former BOST Managing Director

The former Managing Director of Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST), Dr Edwin Alfred Nii Obodai Provencal has asked the opposition New Patriotic Party to value their Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON) and their contributions to the party’s development.

He noted that TESCON has over the years not been given the attention and support it needs, therefore calling on the leadership of the New Patriotic Party to review their approach towards this students’ wing.

“TESCON has long been the NPP’s ideological breeding ground and grassroots machinery, mobilizing students, dominating digital spaces and invigorating rallies often with little to no financial support. Its members don’t just talk politics; they live it. But when the campaign season ends and decisions are made behind closed doors, they are routinely left out of the room”, he expressed in a statement while addressing some TESCON members during their handing over ceremony held at the Valley View University.

Read statement below:

TESCON: The Party’s Powerhouse Left In The Shadows – Dr. Edwin Obodai Provencal

In Ghana’s political theatre, few youth movements have commanded the energy and influence of the Tertiary Students Confederacy of the New Patriotic Party (TESCON) but beneath the slogans, cheers and glowing tributes lies a quiet frustration, one that threatens the very foundation of the party’s youthful engine.

At a recent TESCON General Meeting, Freshers Orientation and Handing-Over ceremony at Valley View University, Dr. Edwin Obodai Provencal, former Managing Director of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST), laid bare the paradox that defines TESCON’s reality. In his stirring keynote, he praised the organization’s spirit but also exposed a hard truth: the youth wing celebrated in public is often sidelined in private.

TESCON has long been the NPP’s ideological breeding ground and grassroots machinery, mobilizing students, dominating digital spaces and invigorating rallies often with little to no financial support. Its members don’t just talk politics; they live it. But when the campaign season ends and decisions are made behind closed doors, they are routinely left out of the room.

Dr. Provencal’s address echoed the sentiments reverberating among the youthful audience. Their commitment is unquestionable. Their energy, unmatched. But the lack of institutional support, limited mentorship, and absence in strategic roles cast a long shadow over their efforts. Many feel reduced to spectators in a game they help win; acknowledged at rallies, ignored in policy.

The contrast is stark: public praise and photo ops versus private exclusion and missed opportunities. TESCON, the supposed incubator for the NPP’s future leaders, is too often relegated to a ceremonial role instead of a consultative one.

As youthful activism becomes a central force in shaping Ghana’s political future, the NPP must recognize the strategic value TESCON brings beyond the campaign trail. This generation is not just seeking visibility; they’re demanding a seat at the table.

If the party fails to bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality, it risks alienating the very base that has carried its message into lecture halls, dormitories, and digital battlefields. Now is the time for the NPP to align its praise with policy — or risk losing TESCON’s loyalty to disillusionment.

AME

Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance

Ghana’s Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has been elected Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID).

The announcement was made during the 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Board of Governors, held in Banjul, Gambia.

Though Dr Forson could not attend the meeting in person, his message of appreciation and vision was delivered with conviction by Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem.

Ampem began by extending warm greetings from the Government and people of Ghana, expressing Dr. Forson’s deep humility and appreciation for the honour bestowed upon him.

He acknowledged the significant responsibility that comes with the role and pledged Ghana’s unwavering dedication and commitment to the mission of EBID.

“To my fellow Governors, thank you for the trust you have placed in Ghana’s leadership. I will continue to rely on your support and collaboration in the year ahead,” he noted.

Dr Forson’s address also laid out a strategic vision focused on four key areas of development for EBID:

1. Strengthening Resource Mobilization to more effectively finance regional development initiatives;

2. Improving Capital Recovery by enhancing asset management and operational efficiency;

3. Facilitating Non-Regional Membership to broaden the bank’s investment base and partnerships;

4. Positioning EBID as the premier Development Finance Institution in West Africa and beyond.

He emphasised that while the sub-region faces significant challenges, these also present opportunities for transformation and growth. With collaborative effort and renewed purpose, EBID can play a critical role in building a prosperous and integrated West Africa.

Dr Forson further commended Dr George Agyekum Donkor, President of EBID, and his team for their remarkable work in advancing the institution’s goals for regional integration and economic development.

Outgoing chairman Seedy Keita expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Chair of the Board and extended his full support to Dr Forson.

He emphasized EBID’s pivotal role in promoting economic development among ECOWAS member states and voiced confidence in the new leadership to propel the Bank to greater heights.

The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) serves as the development finance institution of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), encompassing 15 member countries. Initially established as the ECOWAS Fund in 1975, the institution was transformed into EBID in 1999 and has since evolved into a unified bank serving both public and private sector needs.

With its headquarters in Lomé, Togo, EBID has been a cornerstone of regional integration and sustainable economic growth, especially since restructuring into a single-window institution in 2007. The Bank continues to finance transformative projects across the region.

Ghana remains a key beneficiary and partner of EBID. As of the latest figures, the Bank’s total commitment to Ghana stands at approximately $ 408 million, supporting 24 active projects across sectors such as finance, energy, and infrastructure.

Notable projects include partnerships with Consolidated Bank Ghana, Access Bank Ghana PLC, Tema LNG Terminal, and Marriott Hotel.

The Ashanti Mampong Traditional Council led by the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, has given leadership of the National Democratic Congress in the Mampong Constituency less than 24 hours to retract their anti-Ashanti comments made by some youth of the party.

Addressing the NDC leadership of the constituency at his palace on Sunday, April 13, 2025, when they called on him, Mamponghene condemned the actions of the party supporters who have waged an open campaign against the possible nomination of an Ashanti for the Mampong Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) position.

“Advise those in the NDC who put up the despicable act. They have until tomorrow afternoon… If not, we shall shake things up for them to know that we wield the power and the entire jurisdiction,” Daasebre Osei Bonsu fumed.

He acknowledged the tolerant and welcoming nature of Ashantis to diversity, stating that Ashanti remains the only area in Ghana where other tribes are allowed to install their own chiefs.

“Because of my work at the university, I have travelled a lot. There is no place you mention that I don’t know of. But our place is the only place where you find Sarkin Zongo, Ewe Chiefs, and whatnot… You are all Mampong people. We respect and treat everyone as equal, so why are some people trying to cause division among us?” he questioned.

The reaction by the Mamponghene is in response to the actions of some NDC youth who have been campaigning against the possible nomination of an Ashanti by President John Dramani Mahama for the MCE position in the area.

Last week, NDC youth in Asante Mampong Constituency protested the rumoured nomination of Esther Dwomoh as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

The youth, favouring three shortlisted candidates—Yakubu Issifu (2024 Parliamentary Candidate), Mohammed Kamil (Constituency Chairman), and Imoro Iddrisu—stormed the party office on April 9 and 10, vandalizing property and setting items ablaze.

They argued the shortlisted trio, long-time party loyalists, deserved the role over Dwomoh, an NDC stalwart.

The group stated that “no Ashanti will be allowed to become MCE of Mampong,” a statement that has been heavily condemned as anti-Ashanti and disrespectful to the owners of Mampong land.

Meanwhile, the NDC constituency leadership has apologized, condemned the violence and called on their supporters to remain calm while awaiting President Mahama’s final decision.

GA

The tiny chips powering billions of electronic devices are central to the global economy

President Donald Trump is expected to unveil more sweeping tariffs on US imports – this time targeting semiconductors.

The tiny chips powering billions of electronic devices are central to the global economy.

What is a semiconductor and how are they used?

Semiconductors, also sometimes referred to as microchips or integrated circuits, are made from tiny fragments of raw materials, such as silicon.

They are altered through a process called doping in order to sometimes conduct electricity and sometimes not. This allows them to be used as electronic switches, speaking the binary language of 0s and 1s that underpins computing.

Semiconductors are used in devices such as smartphones and laptops, as well as in vehicles with electronic control systems, remote car keys and sensors.

They are also in routers, switches, and communication infrastructures that form the backbone of the internet, enabling global connectivity.

When it comes to sustainability, they can be found in wind turbines and solar farms.

In healthcare, they are in medical devices and equipment as well as implantable technology, like pacemakers and insulin pumps.

Who makes them?

The UK, the US, Europe and China rely heavily on Taiwan for semiconductors.

The country’s Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) provides over half of the world’s supply.

Among its customers are tech giants such as Nvidia, Apple and Microsoft.

As a result, TSMC has been caught up in so-called “chip wars” between the US and China.

Why does Trump want tariffs on semiconductors?

One of the main aims of President Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs introduced in his second term has been to encourage firms to manufacture more products in the US.

On Friday, the White House exempted smartphones, computers and some other electronic devices from tariffs, including the 125% levies imposed on Chinese imports.

But that may be set to change, as Trump told reporters on Air Force One he would soon be announcing tariff rates for imported semiconductors.

“We want to make our chips and semiconductors and other things in our country,” he said.

The president and members of his administration have also cited national security concerns about microchips being produced or sourced from elsewhere – saying this would be explored in an upcoming probe.

“We are taking a look at semiconductors and the whole electronics supply chain in the upcoming National Security Tariff Investigations,” Trump wrote on his platform Truth Social on 13 April.

He added that the US would not be “held hostage” by other countries such as China.

How could the US make more semiconductors?

The US has spent colossal sums of money in recent years to try and boost technology manufacturing on its shores.

Some companies, such as TSMC, have already boosted their US presence in response to previous legislation under the previous administration.

The US Chips Act incentivised firms to move chips manufacturing in the US in return for funding awards.

The US government committed $6.6bn (£5bn) in awards to TSMC after it built a factory in Arizona.

But production at the site has previously faced delays due to a shortage of skilled workers – something that may present a wider challenge to increasing US-based semiconductor manufacturing.

TSMC reportedly only resolved its staff shortage by bringing thousands of workers over from Taiwan.

A report by the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has revealed that securing victory in both presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana requires an estimated amount of $150 million, along with an additional GH¢10 million.

The report highlights the growing monetisation of democracy in the country and its detrimental impact on the fight against corruption and the promotion of accountability.

According to myjoyonline.com, Kojo Asante, Director of Programs at CDD-Ghana, made these remarks during a recent presentation before the Constitutional Review Committee.

“We must begin electing leaders with integrity and orienting them towards the public interest, as this focus on public welfare also drives development,” he stated.

“There must be clear provisions for disqualifying candidates who breach regulations, as well as mandatory asset declarations for those running for office. We also need to address the oversight of political parties themselves, which ultimately falls under the Electoral Commission,” he added.

JKB/MA

Watch the latest TWI news below:

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

Ted News Ghana Blog of Monday, 14 April 2025

Source: TEDDY VAVA GAWUGA

BRUHM, a leading home appliance brand, is reinforcing its presence in Ghana through direct community engagement, expanded retail channels, and promotional initiatives aimed at delivering enhanced value to consumers.

The brand began the year with a dynamic three-day roadshow across key commercial hubs in Accra, including Circle, Madina, Kasoa, and Accra Central. The outreach featured live cooking demonstrations using BRUHM gas cookers, food sampling, product displays, and interactions with local influencers.

“Our aim was to meet Ghanaians where they are and let them experience BRUHM products in real time. We’re focused on building trust and helping consumers make confident choices for their homes,” said Ms Awurakua Antwi, Brands Communication Manager for BRUHM Ghana.

The brand showcased its product range—spanning cooling, cooking, laundry, and entertainment appliances—designed with simplicity, functionality, and affordability in mind, qualities that have endeared BRUHM to households across the country.

In line with its retail expansion strategy, BRUHM has launched a Shop-in-Shop concept at the new Electromart outlet at Atomic Junction. The dedicated section provides customers with the opportunity to view the full range of BRUHM products in a single location. To mark the opening, Ghanaian music legend Reggie Rockstone was gifted a chest freezer during his visit to the store. He also endorsed the brand’s practical features and affordability.

BRUHM products are now available through major retail chains including Melcom, China Mall, Electromart, Super Save, and Kitchen & Beyond. The brand also maintains an online presence via Jumia and Electromart’s e-commerce platforms, ensuring nationwide accessibility.

To coincide with the Easter period, BRUHM has rolled out promotional offers for 2025, including bundled deals such as free fans with the purchase of air conditioners, available at Electromart outlets across the country.

“Buying BRUHM is not just a purchase—it’s a long-term investment in convenience and reliability,” Ms Antwi stated. “We are consistently listening to customers and adapting our offerings to suit their needs.”

The company has hinted at upcoming campaigns, retail collaborations, and product innovations tailored to the needs of Ghanaian households.

Vehicle buyers lament ‘obnoxious’ taxes at the ports

The Vehicle and Assets Dealers Union of Ghana (VADUG) has expressed frustration over the numerous taxes vehicle dealers must pay at the ports to clear their goods.

According to the union, the taxes imposed on vehicle buyers are “unnecessary” and overly expensive.

These charges include Import Duty, Import VAT, the GHS Disinfection Fee, the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, Vehicle Examination Fees, and the African Union Import Levy, among others.

The Executive Secretary of VADUG, Frank Atanley Kofigah, described the fees at the ports as “obnoxious.”

“If you’re a customer clearing a vehicle at the port, be prepared to pay over twenty different fees.

“When you go in there now, you have to deal with the GHS Disinfection Fee and the Special Import Levy. That 2% levy, what is it even for? It was introduced for a specific purpose. Is that purpose still relevant? We need to critically examine these charges,” he said, as quoted by citinewsroom.com.

VADUG emphasised the need for the government to fast-track the implementation of a comprehensive auto-financing policy that would allow banks and financial institutions to offer credit facilities to vehicle buyers.

They argued that, in addition to paying for insurance and freight costs, buyers are also required to pay taxes based on the vehicle’s original model year purchase price, regardless of when the vehicle was actually purchased.

Under Ghanaian law, vehicles older than five years attract an additional 50% penalty based on the original value, while brand-new vehicles under six months old are exempt from depreciation-related penalties.

The Executive Secretary also highlighted Ghana’s lack of a proper vehicle financing system.

“In other countries, if you’re employed, you can walk into a dealership with zero down payment and just a valid appointment letter and still drive away in a financed car. Why not here?” he questioned.

SSD/MA

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Accra, April 14, GNA – The C4C Homeopathic Pharmaceuticals has launched Ghana’s first over-the-counter homeopathic medicine to complement the work of medical homeopath and enhance healthcare delivery.

The introduction of Livotone Liver Tonic, which has been approved by the Food and Drugs Authority for advertisement, meant that patrons of homeopathic medicine could now access the medicine in pharmacies without necessary visiting treatment centres.

Addressing a press conference in Accra in commemoration of the global Medical Homeopathic Week celebrations in Accra, Dr Michael Kyeremateng, the immediate-past Registrar of the Traditional Medicine Practice Council, described the development as significant breakthrough for Ghana’s homeopathic industry.

Dr Kyeremateng, who is also the President of the C4C Group of Companies, said hitherto no homeopathic medicine was available in pharmacies in Ghana due to the difficulty of industry players to meet the robust registration requirements.

He said the approval of the product by FDA was an indication that homeopathic practitioners could follow the required processes and overcome the hurdles to get their products approved to enhance safety.

“This will now create opportunities for Ghanaian’s nationwide to access homeopathic medicine at any major pharmacy in each region, district, communities in Ghana without stress alongside the herbal medicines and the allopathic medicines,” he said.

Dr Kyeremateng expressed concern about the activities of many practitioners who use radionic equipment’s to produce and transfer energy into water in a bottle mixed with food colour and give it out as homeopathic medicine.

He said the practice was not reviewed vetted and approved by the FDA due to the traditional nature of the practice.

Dr Kyeremateng said the C4C Group would train more homeopathic pharmacists and medical homeopaths to be self-employed and also work with various pharmacies, and over-the counter medicines that dispense homeopathic medications nationwide.

The initiative, he added, could create more than one million jobs in the next 22 years.

“There is the need for the proper training of the homeopathic pharmacist, the medical homeopath. Such a trained pharmacist and homeopath should have imbibed the homeopathic pharmacopoeia and its applications towards assisting patients at all homeopathic centres, clinics, hospitals, industries, factories,” he said.

Homeopathy is a system of alternative medicine that aims to treat patients with highly diluted substances, typically in the form of sugar pills or liquid solutions.

The core principle of homeopathy is “like cures like,” meaning that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat similar symptoms in a person who is ill.

GNA

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has raised serious concerns about the government’s fumigation contract with the Jospong Group of Companies, operators of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, alleging a lack of consultation and transparency.

According to the AMA, many of the contracts were signed without the involvement of key actors within the assemblies, making it difficult to verify the accuracy of reports submitted for fumigation exercises.

The AMA’s Director of Public Health, Florence Kuukyi, made these remarks during an engagement with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sanitation and Water Resources on Monday, April 14. She called for an immediate review of the fumigation contract to ensure transparency and accountability.

“Just as the coordinating director rightly said, all these contracts are always signed at the blind side of the implementers. So most of the time, even, you are just there, and they’ll bring you a report. We’ve done this. We’ve done that,” she said.

“They don’t involve you in whatever they do. They only bring you a report to sign as a witness. You can decide to sign.”

She continued, “You can decide not to sign. But whatever it is, they will be paid. So that is why we are hammering much on the review and the repackaging of the SIP contract so that we, the implementers, actors, will also have a say in it.

“Whatever they are doing, our faces are following them. If they are doing it right, we will know. If they are not doing it right, we will know. It is there. But I have never witnessed one fumigation. That is the issue. But always they bring reports of fumigation that they’ve done.”

Bawku: No need for a State of Emergency – Upper East Regional Minister

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x

No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital

QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness direct selling company, in a press briefing organised on Monday, 14 April 2025 in Accra, has comprehensively addressed a number of negative claims arising from some traditional and social media publications, reiterating that the company is largely being misrepresented and its brand name and products misused by certain individuals for personal gains.

The Regional General Manager for QNET, Biram Fall and Global Compliance Officer, Mrs. Naana Quartey took turns clarifying issues ranging from the news on the arrest of 44 Cameroonians to media publications about victims of travel and employment scams.

QNET STRONGLY DISSOCIATES ITSELF FROM THE ARREST OF 44 CAMEROONIANS

Stated by Mr. Fall: “We are aware that some Cameroonians who were allegedly involved in internet fraud and scam, have been arrested by the police. According to the statement released by the police, they were lured to Ghana from Cameroon, on the promise of securing employment opportunities. Clearly, this is a case of individuals who acted on their own volition to scam other people using employment opportunities as a bait. QNET has nothing to do with this unlawful behaviour; they were not acting on behalf of the company.”

SOCIAL MEDIA VIDEOS OF ALLEGED “QNET OFFICES”

Mr. Fall further clarified: “QNET does not operate multiple offices across different locations in Ghana. Rather, QNET has established a QNET Training Centre in Ghana and it is operated by our partner, Bosomtwi Industries, a registered Ghanaian company. It is located at East Legon in Accra and it is the only official QNET address in Ghana. We have hosted several media briefings and events there, so, a lot of journalists are familiar with the QNET Training Centre.”

OVERSEAS JOB AND VISA SCAMS AND OTHER CASES

QNET said it was not an employment, travel or visa agency and does not promise anyone employment opportunities or work and travel visas to any country. The company warned that certain individuals exploit others with the false promise of overseas employment, and they should be reported to QNET or the law enforcement agencies.

QNET SUPPORTING LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES TO FIGHT SCAMS

QNET has helped over 250 victims report fraudulent activities tied to the misuse of QNET’s name. Additionally, in 2024, the company initiated more than 42 legal cases across Sub-Saharan Africa to address this issue.

QNET’S PUBLIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN