The happy student after shaking hands with President Mahama

A senior high school female student perhaps experienced the greatest moment of her life when she had the rare opportunity to shake hands with President John Mahama.

The student, wearing a light blue shirt over a blue-black skirt, could not control her emotions after the handshake, during a time when the president was exchanging pleasantries with many students who had gathered at the launch of the Free Sanitary Pads Programme for girls in school.

A video shared on social media shows the student excitedly showing her hand to a man who appears to be a teacher, while jumping with excitement.

She then shouts, “I am not cleaning my hand!”

The government has officially launched the Free Sanitary Pads Initiative, a program designed to distribute sanitary pads to schoolgirls throughout the country, with the aim of supporting their health and education.

The initiative was unveiled in Accra on Thursday, April 24, with key stakeholders in attendance, including ministers, policymakers, education experts, and school representatives.

This intervention aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s broader vision of promoting gender equality and ensuring that every child can access quality education, regardless of gender or background.

President Mahama has previously emphasized the critical need to address the obstacles girls face due to menstruation. During his maiden State of the Nation Address, he stressed the importance of removing these barriers.

The program is expected to alleviate the financial burden on families, improve school attendance among girls, and enhance their overall health and well-being.

“I am not cleaning my hands “, Says a senior high student after shaking hands with president John Mahama at the national Launch of free sanitary pad for girls in schools ..!!! pic.twitter.com/qAqehzKe56

— Mahama The President (@CitizenTechiman) April 26, 2025

KA

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The Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, Atta Issah, has projected that countries across the world, including Ghana, may adjust their economic targets for the year, following the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) forecast of global growth at 3.3% for 2025, with a gradual decline to just above 3% over the next five years well below historical averages.

According to the MP, who is a member of the Finance Committee of Parliament, this slowdown is attributed to factors such as ageing populations, geopolitical tensions, and tightening financial conditions.

He noted that Ghana, currently under an IMF balance of payment support program, may see its economic gains disrupted. However, he stressed that by adapting homegrown solutions and implementing expenditure cuts, as demonstrated by the John Mahama administration, Ghana could maintain a trajectory of growth.

Atta Issah, who had the opportunity as a young MP to join the Ghanaian delegation that travelled to Washington, D.C. for the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, shared his observations in a social media post.

He noted that attending the meetings provided him with valuable opportunities to learn from global participants and understand the workings of the Bretton Woods Institutions.

“As a member of the Finance Committee of the 9th Parliament of the Republic of Ghana, I needed to do myself some good by keeping an open mind to learn, observe, and build strong relationships,” he stated.

On debt concerns, the lawmaker observed that the IMF is increasingly worried about global public debt, which is projected to reach 100% of global GDP by 2030, raising alarms about fiscal sustainability.

He emphasised that emerging markets, in particular, face challenges due to rising borrowing costs and limited access to international capital markets, adding that third-world countries like Ghana are at risk and must take urgent steps to win the confidence of international markets.

On trade tensions, the MP disclosed that discussions at the meetings highlighted concerns over the lack of clarity regarding U.S. tariff policies, particularly those during President Donald Trump’s tenure.

He noted that despite numerous trade proposals, no agreements were finalized, leaving global financial leaders worried about the economic outlook, a situation he said has serious implications for countries like Ghana that trade heavily with the U.S.

On fiscal consolidation, the legislator observed that Ghana has made notable progress, with the primary fiscal balance improving significantly.

He stated that the government aims to achieve a primary surplus of 1½% of GDP in 2025 through enhanced domestic revenue mobilization and expenditure rationalisation.

He urged the government to remain committed to this target, as it will significantly contribute to macroeconomic stability.

Speaking on debt restructuring, the Sagnarigu MP expressed confidence in Ghana’s comprehensive debt restructuring efforts, including agreements with official creditors and Eurobond holders, which are expected to reduce the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio.

He stated that Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio, currently standing at 61.8%, is projected to fall to 55% by the end of 2025 following the completion of the debt exchange program — a significant improvement from 2024.

On energy sector reforms, the MP highlighted the launch of the Energy Sector Recovery Programme aimed at achieving financial stability.

Efforts under this program include renegotiating contracts with Independent Power Producers to reduce costs and alleviate fiscal strain.

He expressed optimism that the upcoming phase two of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant will reduce gas imports and provide significant fiscal savings for the country.

Touching on monetary policy, he commended the Bank of Ghana for maintaining a prudent monetary stance aimed at sustaining inflation reduction and strengthening financial sector stability.

He noted measures such as recapitalizing state-owned banks and rebuilding international reserves as crucial to achieving these goals.

Suggesting a path forward for emerging markets, the Sagnarigu MP recommended prioritising structural reforms to enhance fiscal resilience, improve governance, and foster private sector investment, reforms he emphasized as critical for sustaining economic growth and development.

On International Support, he observed a strong call for increased support from international financial institutions to address challenges such as weak domestic revenue mobilisation and limited access to international capital markets.

He argued that tailored and enhanced technical support is essential for sustainable development.

On debt management, the MP asserted that effective debt management strategies, including timely debt restructuring and fiscal discipline, are vital to preventing debt distress and ensuring long-term economic stability.

He commended the recent announcement by the Finance Minister regarding an amendment to the Public Procurement Act to require a commencement certificate before a project can begin.

He praised this measure, stating that it would save the country from having to pay for projects that were never executed.

Finally, he mentioned that agricultural mechanisation programs will also help reduce the debt burden, and emphasised the need for increased investment in the agricultural sector.

KA

Foreign Affairs minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has just unveiled some exciting new updates to Ghana’s passport system, making the process even more convenient for citizens.

In a post shared on Sunday, April 27, 2025, Ablakwa highlighted that along with the introduction of chip-embedded passports, a move in line with international standards, the government is also rolling out major service improvements.

One of the key changes; is that passport delivery is now handled by Ghana Post, with no additional cost to applicants.

This means that whether you’re at home or without a personal address, you can easily collect your passport from a nearby Ghana Post office.

Even more exciting, a 24-hour passport operations and delivery service will soon be available, speeding up the entire process and creating jobs across the country.

And here’s the best part: despite all these upgrades, passport application fees have been slashed.

Namibia’s agriculture minister has been sacked after being accused of raping a 16-year-old girl five years ago.

Mac-Albert Hengari was arrested on Saturday after allegedly attempting to bribe the victim, now 21, to withdraw the case against him, the police say.

Hengari, 59, who has denied any wrongdoing, appeared in court on Monday and was denied bail.

This is the first major scandal for Namibia’s first female President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, since she took office last month.

The statement from the president’s office did not indicate the reasons for the dismissal but said Hengari had also been dismissed from the National Assembly.

Hengari was nominated to parliament by the president to represent the ruling party, Swapo.

He is under investigation for multiple charges related to the case including kidnapping, rape and assault, police say.

On Monday he appeared before a magistrates’ court in the capital Windhoek facing a charge of obstructing the course of justice.

He and his co-accused will remain in custody until 3 June when the next hearing is scheduled. They were denied bail on the grounds that they could be a flight risk and could seek to contact witnesses.

The opposition Independent Patriots for Change said Hengari’s arrest “on allegations of rape, kidnapping and forced abortion” was a “profound failure of leadership and exposes the hollowness of government rhetoric on gender-based violence”.

It said the case came against a backdrop of “widespread gender violence”, with 4,814 gender-violence cases reported last year. The country has a population of three million.

The party also criticised the vetting process, saying the president had appointed Hengari “despite a criminal investigation having allegedly been opened in November 2024”.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah last month unveiled a cabinet described as ground-breaking for female representation – with nine out 14 members being women, including the vice-president.

The 72-year-old won November’s election with a 58% share of the vote.

She is a long-term member of Swapo – which has been in power since the country gained independence in 1990 after a long struggle against apartheid South Africa.

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The Member of Parliament (MP) for Savelugu in the Northern Region, Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz, has raised concerns about the recently launched Free Sanitary Pads initiative by President John Dramani Mahama, aimed at keeping the girl-child in school.

According to her, the intention behind the initiative is commendable, but she cautioned that without careful implementation, the policy may lead to what she described as “bitter disappointment.”

“The intentions behind this policy are noble. No girl should be forced to miss school or resort to rags, leaves, or bits of mattress foam during her period. But good intentions, without careful execution, often pave the way for bitter disappointment. Unless urgent corrections are made, this initiative risks becoming a national symbol of mismanagement, lost opportunity, and broken promises,” she said.

The Savelugu lawmaker, who is also the Deputy Ranking Member on the Gender, Children, and Social Welfare Committee of Parliament, issued the caution in an article she wrote on the subject.

She proposed a targeted approach to the initiative, starting with the five regions in northern Ghana, which are mostly deprived and poverty-stricken, while providing improved sanitation facilities in schools across the country to help achieve the objectives of the initiative.

The MP noted that while the unveiling marks a significant policy shift and positions Ghana among countries prioritizing menstrual equity, the program faces serious scrutiny over its planning, execution, and sustainability.

Speaking from the dual perspective of a woman, mother, and lawmaker, Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz expressed not celebration but anxiety.

“My heart should be brimming with pride,” she noted. “Instead, it aches with worry,” the she added.

The MP said her concerns are rooted in the poor planning and misaligned priorities of the government regarding the initiative.

The government has budgeted GH¢292.4 million to serve two million girls, roughly GH¢146 per student annually. However, with quality sanitary pads costing GH¢15 to GH¢40 per month, simple calculations reveal a troubling funding gap.

“Is this a genuine intervention,” she questioned, “or a political gimmick dressed in the cloth of compassion?”

Another concern of the legislator is geographic inequity, stating that girls in Ghana’s five northern regions, where poverty levels are highest, remain underserved.

This uneven rollout, she said, raises doubts about the program’s commitment to equity and inclusion. She observed that girls in rural districts like Zebilla and Bunkpurugu continue to wait for their turn.

The MP also highlighted infrastructure challenges in schools as a major barrier to the initiative. According to a 2024 report by SEND Ghana, 63% of basic schools lack access to adequate toilet and hygiene facilities. Without proper water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, merely handing out pads can be counterproductive, exposing girls to embarrassment and risk rather than delivering empowerment.

Additional concerns raised by the MP include delayed supply deliveries, substandard product quality, corruption in procurement and distribution, a model that promotes dependency rather than long-term resilience, and the lack of a sustainable financing framework for the project.

Way Forward

Hajia Abdul Aziz urged the government to prioritize local production by reviving the cotton industry and establishing pad manufacturing hubs in regions like Tumu and Tamale, offering tax exemptions on sanitary products, and targeting the most vulnerable girls through data-backed strategies.

Other recommendations include improving school infrastructure and investing in gender-friendly toilets with water and disposal facilities by 2026 to avoid rendering the sanitary pad initiative a hollow gesture.

She further proposed dedicating 1% of VAT revenue to menstrual health, using blockchain technology to ensure transparency in procurement and distribution, and publishing real-time performance reports to foster public trust.

The Savelugu MP appealed to President John Mahama to ensure a detailed, costed implementation plan with pilot phases of the project launched in the northern regions before any national rollout.

She also emphasized the need for civil society, traditional leaders, and local assemblies to participate as active collaborators in the process.

Hajia Abdul Aziz encouraged all Ghanaians to demand accountability, support local manufacturing, and confront the stigma surrounding menstruation.

“This initiative is bold, visionary, and filled with hope,” she concluded. “But hope alone is not enough. Our girls deserve more than promises—they deserve dignity. Not just pads, but protection. Not just applause, but action,” she said.

GA

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James Arhin, National Chairman of the Association of Automobile Artisans, Ghana

The Association of Automobile Artisans, Ghana (Auto Gh), a leading voice for skilled automotive professionals, has officially announced its new national leadership and outlined ambitious strategic plans to revolutionize Ghana’s automotive sector.

Founded in 2019 in Kumasi, Auto Gh has grown from a small workshop into a nationally recognized association, representing over 200 artisans, engineers, and technicians.

Speaking at the announcement event, James Arhin, newly elected National Chairman, emphasised the association’s vision to elevate automotive artisanship in Ghana and West Africa through a combination of certification programmes, advanced training, digital innovation, and sustainable practices.

“We are inviting all stakeholders, local and international, to join hands with Auto Gh as we raise the standard of automobile craftsmanship in Ghana.

“This is more than an association; it is a movement of change-makers, innovators, and professionals committed to building a better future for our country and continent,” Arhin said.

Auto Gh’s future roadmap focuses on critical areas such as professional certification, the launch of a digital platform for mobile mechanics and towing services, real-time vehicle diagnostics, and policy advocacy within the automotive sector.

The Association is also calling on development partners, automotive manufacturers, tool suppliers, academic institutions, financial institutions, and government agencies to collaborate with them in building a future-ready workforce to drive industrial growth and environmental sustainability.

Auto Gh’s new strategic direction is anchored on three pillars:

Excellence – Delivering top-tier automotive services with precision and reliability.

Empowerment – Creating career growth opportunities and promoting economic independence among artisans.

Innovation – Championing eco-conscious practices and leading the industry’s digital transformation.

These core values reflect Auto Gh’s mission to be Ghana’s premier association for automotive professionals while advancing national development through sustainable practices.

National Leadership 2025–2029

The newly elected national officers are:

National Chairman –James Arhin

Vice Chairman – Engineer P.K. Kwarteng

National Finance/Trustee – Patrick Yeboah Domfeh

Deputy Finance Officer – Abraham Adu

General Secretary – Michael Osei

Deputy General Secretary – Ridwan Yakubu

General P.R.O. – Nana Obri Yeboah

Deputy P.R.O. – Gyakye Kwasi Francis

Organizer – Adu-Gyamfi Michael

Deputy Organizer – Daniel Nyame

Welfare Officer – Anthony Addai Boakye

Deputy Welfare Officer – Eric Owusu Karikari

Discipline/Protocol Officer – Engineer Ben Daniel Antwi

Deputy Discipline/Protocol Officer – Simon Kwame Agyemang

Supportive Member of Executive Board – Engineer Charles Oppong Tachie

Since its inception, Auto Gh has been committed to reshaping the automotive landscape in Ghana, focusing on training, innovation, and advocacy.

AM/

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Key actors in Ghana’s rice value chain have called for an integrated and coordinated approach to strengthen the sector and address concerns about production, processing, post-harvest management and market access.

Alex Yeboah, Rice Breeder at the Savanna Agricultural Research Institute and acting head of the Rice Improvement Program, emphasised that rice self-sufficiency cannot be achieved by addressing only one part of the chain.

He noted that irrigation infrastructure, mechanisation, improved agronomic practices, and improved seeds must be prioritised alongside post-harvest handling.

“If you are looking at rice self-sufficiency, you don’t tackle one aspect. You have to look at it holistically so that we can all gain at the end of the day,” he said.

The call was made during a business-to-business workshop convened by the Ghana Chapter of the Competitive African Rice Platform (CARP-GH), under the umbrella of the ECOWAS Rice Observatory (ERO) – a regional platform jointly established by ECOWAS and AGRA to advance rice trade, resilience, and regional integration.

Organised as part of the Africa Food Trade and Resilience Programme (AFT&RP) – through AGRA and with funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the UK – the event brought together over 40 stakeholders, including producers, processors, seed companies, input suppliers, development partners, and policymakers.

Chairman of CARP-GH, Yaw Poku, explained that the objective of CARP is to harness the energy and vibrancy of rice sector actors to transform the value chain and ensure self-sustainability and affordability.

Ghana’s rice sector has experienced significant growth over the past few years.

However, there are still challenges in aligning efforts across the value chain, particularly in ensuring effective collaboration between stakeholders. To address this, CARP-GH organised the workshop to foster stronger ties among rice stakeholders in Ghana.

“The workshop brought to the fore that linkages within the value chain and collaborative efforts of actors will enhance and bring freshness, quality and better markets to the sector,” Mr. Poku said.

There was also the showcasing of innovative technologies and best practices in rice production, processing, and marketing.

The engagement also deliberated on efforts that need to be taken to strengthen the overall rice value chain in line with national agricultural policies and objectives. Stakeholders shared various views on what needs to be done to strengthen the rice value chain.

Abukari Abdulai, Managing Director of Heritage Seed Company Limited and Northern Sector Representative of the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana noted the need for quality assurance and strict adherence to seed certification standards.

“What we produce for the farmer is what we call the certified seeds, and we go through a process that will make it good for a farmer to produce it… Nobody should produce rice seed without inspection by PPRSD (Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Division)…,” he said.

Sepenica Darko, founder and team leader for FarmerTribe Company Limited, also emphasised that challenges with fake input supply and access to markets need to be addressed.

“There are a whole lot of things that happen along the input supply chains that make farmers end up with counterfeited products… We are also facing difficulties because of a lack of markets,” she observed.

Hajia Hawa Musah, Northern Regional Director of the Department of Agriculture, stressed that policy changes are needed to boost local rice production and decrease imports. She believes that with proper investment, methods, and commitment, Ghana could even export quality rice.

The workshop builds on CARP Ghana’s 2025 work plan to host structured dialogues across Northern Ghana.

To date, over 40 stakeholders have participated in learning sessions, seed systems harmonisation efforts, and private sector matchmaking, strengthening collaboration across policy and business ecosystems.

The platform aligns closely with Ghana’s agricultural policy objectives, including the Feed Ghana Programme, which points out the importance of local production, value addition, and food systems resilience.

AGRA’s support for CARP is part of its broader Strategy 3.0 commitment: to catalyse inclusive agricultural transformation by identifying system tipping points, enabling trade, and amplifying the role of public-private partnerships.

Through the AFT&RP and CARP-GH, AGRA supports the emergence of a competitive agro-processing industry and a stronger rice economy, while ensuring that youth, women, and smallholders are central to the transformation agenda.

In his opening remarks, Sunil Dahiya, Senior Program Officer for Inclusive Markets, Trade, and Finance at AGRA – West Africa, emphasised the strategic importance of the dialogue.

“This platform represents a vital opportunity to connect all rice value chain actors, enhance sectoral coordination to harness opportunities and co-create long-lasting solutions that advance our shared vision of a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient rice sector in Ghana,” he said.

“This approach enables smarter investment, resilient markets, and ultimately a more self-reliant Ghanaian rice sector,” he added.

“AGRA continues to play a catalytic role by convening the national and regional actors around shared opportunities for food systems change and unlocking the rice sector’s potential,” Dahiya concluded.

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By Iddi Yire 

Accra, April 28, GNA-President John Dramani Mahama has in accordance with Section 17 of the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612) as amended, appointed Mrs Matilda Asante-Asiedu as the Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG).  

A statement issued by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications, copied to the Ghana News Agency said Mrs Asante-Asiedu is a Chartered Banker and seasoned corporate leader who has served as Group Head, Retail Banking at Access Bank Ghana PLC.  

She holds an MBA in Marketing from GIMPA Business School (2021), an MA in Journalism Studies from Cardiff University (2005), and diploma in Journalism (Ghana Institute of Journalism, 1997) and Politics and Public Affairs Reporting (International Institute of Journalism, Berlin, 2000).  

Mrs Mrs Asante-Asiedu is Chartered Executive Banker (CIB-Ghana, 2024).  

She has undertaken Executive Programmes at Said Business School at Oxford University (2023), Wharton School (2015) and Marquette University’s Les Aspin Centre (2003). 

GNA 

GRB 

By Solomon Gumah 

Tamale, April 28, GNA – Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister for Education has inaugurated the Governing Council of the University for Development Studies (UDS), with a call on members to prioritise the preservation of the University’s integrity and unique identity. 

The Governing Council is chaired by Mr Abdulai Salifu, a former diplomat, with Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, the Vice-Chancellor of UDS, serving as Vice-Chairman.  

Other members are Dr Fatimatu Iddrisu, Dr Arnold Abubakari Mashud, Madam Magdalene Awunyeliya, Professor Edmund Muonir Der, Dr Yaa Nyarko, Professor Mamudu Abunga Akudugu, Mrs Bruce Akambotuu, Mr Mohammed Abdulai, and Professor Terry Ansah, representing the UDS Alumni Association. 

The rest are Mr Emmanuel Asampana, Mr Alhassan Issah Dokurugu and Mrs Abiba Nyar. 

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key stakeholders including Mr Ahmed Jinapor, the Director-General of Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, Queen Nozizwe Pearl Mulela, the wife of King Misuzulu KaZwelithini of the Zulu Nation in South Africa and some members of the UDS community. 

Mr Iddrisu administered the Official Oath and the Oath of Secrecy to Council Members, urging them to support the Vice-Chancellor in ensuring efficient governance and academic excellence. 

He said the inauguration reflected the government’s utmost trust in the Council’s integrity and ability to represent the University’s best interests saying, “You have a responsibility to protect the identity and integrity of UDS”. 

The Education Minister commended Members of the outgone Council for their dedicated service and urged the new Members to build upon that foundation by setting higher standards for institutional development.  

He assured them of the government’s full support and pledged non-interference in their decision-making processes. 

Mr Salifu, the new Council Chairman, expressed his gratitude to President John Mahama for the confidence reposed in them and affirmed the Council’s commitment to advancing the University’s mission and goals. 

GNA 

EA/CAA 

Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, Dr. Anthony Aubynn, has expressed deep concerns over the involvement of politicians in illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey’.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Monday, April 28, Dr. Aubynn described political interference as a major barrier to effectively tackling the galamsey menace.

He noted that efforts to curb illegal mining are often undermined when individuals in influential political positions are implicated in the practice.

“The worst of it all, and I have said and written about it in 2009, so it’s not a new thing, the worst of it all is the involvement of politicians in this business. It becomes so difficult to resolve when you have politicians, some of whom are in very leading positions, involved. You can’t successfully push them out,” he stated.

Dr. Aubynn pointed to the complexity and deeply rooted nature of illegal mining in Ghana, suggesting that these entrenched interests make meaningful reform extremely difficult.

As an example, he cited former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s public defence of Akonta Mining—a company accused of engaging in illegal mining—despite evidence to the contrary.

“That is how come, I think the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at one point in time said Akonta Mining was not doing anything illegal, even though the facts spoke otherwise,” he said.

Galamsey: L.I 2462 must be completely repealed – Tony Aubynn

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By Seth KRAMPAH, Kumasi

A recent study has warned that without smarter fiscal strategies, the country risks losing vital port traffic to neighboring competitors.

From 2017 to 2021, Ghana’s ports thrived on tax relief measures such as the Benchmark Value Discount Policy (BVDP) and import duty exemptions, which helped boost cargo throughput, particularly during the economic uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, the subsequent abolition of the BVDP and increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) between 2022 and 2023 reversed these gains, leading to a significant drop in import traffic—which accounts for 66% of total port throughput.

At the same time, neighboring countries like Togo and Côte d’Ivoire are aggressively expanding their port infrastructure and offering more attractive tariff regimes, drawing business away from Ghana.

This shift is prompting urgent calls for strategic policy revisions to preserve Ghana’s competitiveness and economic resilience.

To counter the draw of Togo and Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana must review and reduce port fees and taxes, particularly for transit goods. Incentives targeting landlocked countries could also help restore trade flows.

These and more were contained in a research report put together by Center for Applied Research and Innovation in Supply Chain – Africa (CARISCA) and published by the Business & Financial Times recently.

“The current framework must evolve to ensure that Ghana remains a preferred destination for shipping lines and traders, while also safeguarding necessary government revenues,” the report stated.

Ghana’s port traffic, competitiveness, and tax revenue have revealed that the country’s port future hinges on balance between maintaining government tax revenues and ensuring competitive trade policies that attract importers and exporters,

The report explores the relationship between tax policies and port operations in Ghana, focusing on how changes in tax regimes affect port traffic and government revenue.

Ghana’s ports, particularly Tema and Takoradi, are crucial to the nation’s economy, serving both domestic needs and neighboring landlocked countries.

The report in its recommendation has advised policy makers to reconsider tax relief measures, introduce competitive port tariffs, and streamline port processes to reduce hidden costs as well as the country’s ability to maintain its position as a regional trade hub which centers on urgent reforms to its tax and trade policies.

It emphasizes that striking a balance between sustaining government tax revenues and creating a more favorable business climate is essential for the future of Ghana’s port operations.

Targeted tax revisions, infrastructure upgrades, and more efficient port management are key to restoring Ghana’s competitiveness in the West African maritime sector.

It further lays out a roadmap for revitalization, calling for a return to the BVDP or the introduction of a similar tax relief mechanism to help revive import volumes and re-establish Ghana’s ports as attractive entry points for global trade.

The report again calls for investment in modern port facilities and technologies. Upgrading infrastructure can reduce vessel turnaround times, improve efficiency, and position Ghanaian ports as more competitive options.

To reduce overreliance on import taxes, the report recommends expanding exports, supporting industrial free zones, and investing in value-added services like logistics, warehousing, and re-export hubs.

Additionally, the report emphasizes the importance of stronger customs enforcement through technologies like blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to reduce smuggling and underreporting, thereby stabilizing revenue without burdening legitimate trade.

“Adjusting tax policies to create a favorable business environment at the ports will be crucial in maintaining competitiveness in the region, especially with the growing threat from neighboring countries. Strategic revisions to existing tax regimes, along with infrastructural improvements and streamlined port operations, will help Ghana regain its standing as a key transit hub in West Africa,”

Traffic among neighboring countries from 2011-2021

Source: UNCTAD database

The Vice President of policy think tank, IMANI Africa, has called for reforms to programmes of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG), criticising them for lack of sustainability mechanisms. 

Bright Simons argued that the recent architecture of loan-supported programmes of the IMF and development initiatives of the World Bank lacked accountability and transition to ensure durable structural reforms for better outcomes. 

The Policy Analyst said this in an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency on the sidelines of the just ended spring meetings of the IMF and WBG, in Washington DC, USA. 

Developing countries like Ghana are noted for resorting to the IMF for loan-supported programmes to restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability, paving the way for economic resilience and inclusive growth. 

On the other hand, the World Bank programmes focused on poverty reduction, Human capital development, Infrastructure development, and sustainable economic growth and job creation. 

Mr Simons noted that the short-term nature of IMF loan-supported programmes, coupled with the lack of clear transition plans to other development agencies and proper continuation by governments were responsible for the periodic return of Ghana and other countries to the Bretton Woods institutions for antidotes to their economic crisis.  

“The World Bank accountability mechanism is to the government, the same government that they are supervising. They need to incorporate civil society into the process so that when you do that long-term structural transition, there is more accountability,” he said. 

“Government officials wield significant authority and often deploy it to serve political interests, including those of their business associates,” he said, noting that the IMF and World Bank processes inadvertently reinforced such concentration of power. 

Mr Simons pointed to several examples of failed accountability in Ghana, including expensive drone programmes for drainage monitoring and illegal mining (galamsay) surveillance that disappeared without adequate tracking. 

“A new minister came and said you can’t find them. Nobody can find where they are,” he said, adding that similar programmes continued to receive funding despite those failures. 

He called for reforms in the structure of programmes of the Bretton Woods institutions to create the necessary checks and balances through strengthened civil society participation for effective enforcement and empowering of voices within the country. 

He encouraged deliberate investment in policy literacy and civil society capacity to bridge the gap between paper reforms and actual implementation, to propel the effectiveness of international development programmes. 

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The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) is wasting precious time with its nationwide Thank You Tour when urgent internal matters demand attention, a political science lecturer has said.

Dr Kwame Asah-Asante, Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana’s Political Science Department, said the party should rather focus on healing divisions created during its recent internal contests.

“I don’t think it’s necessary,” he said bluntly on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday.

“We have more pressing issues that I would have thought the party will spend more time looking at in detail.”

He pointed to the tensions and factionalism that marred the NPP’s parliamentary and presidential primaries.

“We saw the bickering and the rancour that characterised the party’s parliamentary and presidential primaries, and it fed into the whole electoral process,” Dr. Asah-Asante said.

“You cannot discount this.”

He warned that the internal wounds are still fresh and need urgent healing before the next general elections.

“This is something that lingers on within the political space,” he said.

“I thought that this is an opportune time for them to look at it, deal with it, so that people who are aggrieved, who are disenchanted, you can get them back.”

He named individuals like former party executives Dr. Amoako Baah and Paul Afoko as examples of those who feel alienated.

“These are matters that the party needs to deal with at home,” Dr. Asah-Asante stressed.

He argued that the Thank You Tour could have been easily replaced with a simple gesture that would not divert attention from critical party work.

“They could have saved us from the situation with a press release,” he suggested.

“And then you go into these specific ones that are really rearing their ugly heads into the whole political business within the party and creating all manner of problems.”

“For me,” he concluded, “the tour is a waste of time.”

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The Public Relations Officer for the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Isaac Agyei Kwakye, has firmly denied claims that “dumsor” the term used for Ghana’s infamous erratic power supply has returned.

According to him, the recent power outages experienced in parts of the country are due to isolated technical issues, such as faulty cables, and not a sign of generation problems.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Monday, April 28, Kwakye explained that while complaints about power interruptions have been received, the causes are localized and should not be interpreted as a nationwide energy crisis.

“There is no ‘dumsor.’ there is nothing like ‘dumsor,’ and ‘dumsor’ is not back. There have been isolated cases. I stay in Accra, at Madina, and I can tell you that I don’t remember the last time I slept in the dark,” Kwakye stated. “What it means is that the cables there are not faulty.”

He cited examples such as Coco Beach and parts of Nungua, where localized faults were responsible for recent outages.

In these cases, he said, while some areas were without power, nearby communities remained connected — further evidence, he argued, that the problems are specific and infrastructure-related rather than systemic generation failures.

Kwakye emphasized that the ministry is actively working with stakeholders to ensure a stable and reliable power supply across the country. He assured the public that faults are being addressed swiftly to minimize inconvenience.

The clarification comes amid growing frustration among Ghanaians, who have called on the government to find lasting solutions to the recent interruptions.

The Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, Atta Issah, has projected that countries across the world, including Ghana, may adjust their economic targets for the year, following the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) forecast of global growth at 3.3% for 2025, with a gradual decline to just above 3% over the next five years well below historical averages.

According to the MP, who is a member of the Finance Committee of Parliament, this slowdown is attributed to factors such as ageing populations, geopolitical tensions, and tightening financial conditions.

He noted that Ghana, currently under an IMF balance of payment support program, may see its economic gains disrupted. However, he stressed that by adapting homegrown solutions and implementing expenditure cuts, as demonstrated by the John Mahama administration, Ghana could maintain a trajectory of growth.

Atta Issah, who had the opportunity as a young MP to join the Ghanaian delegation that travelled to Washington, D.C. for the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, shared his observations in a social media post. He noted that attending the meetings provided him with valuable opportunities to learn from global participants and understand the workings of the Bretton Woods Institutions.

“As a member of the Finance Committee of the 9th Parliament of the Republic of Ghana, I needed to do myself some good by keeping an open mind to learn, observe, and build strong relationships,” he stated.

On Debt Concerns, the lawmaker observed that the IMF is increasingly worried about global public debt, which is projected to reach 100% of global GDP by 2030, raising alarms about fiscal sustainability.

He emphasized that emerging markets, in particular, face challenges due to rising borrowing costs and limited access to international capital markets, adding that third-world countries like Ghana are at risk and must take urgent steps to win the confidence of international markets.

On Trade Tensions, the MP disclosed that discussions at the meetings highlighted concerns over the lack of clarity regarding U.S. tariff policies, particularly those during President Donald Trump’s tenure.

He noted that despite numerous trade proposals, no agreements were finalized, leaving global financial leaders worried about the economic outlook — a situation he said has serious implications for countries like Ghana that trade heavily with the U.S.

On Fiscal Consolidation, the legislator observed that Ghana has made notable progress, with the primary fiscal balance improving significantly.

He stated that the government aims to achieve a primary surplus of 1½% of GDP in 2025 through enhanced domestic revenue mobilization and expenditure rationalization. He urged the government to remain committed to this target, as it will significantly contribute to macroeconomic stability.

Speaking on Debt Restructuring, the Sagnarigu MP expressed confidence in Ghana’s comprehensive debt restructuring efforts, including agreements with official creditors and Eurobond holders, which are expected to reduce the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio.

He stated that Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio, currently standing at 61.8%, is projected to fall to 55% by the end of 2025 following the completion of the debt exchange program — a significant improvement from 2024.

On Energy Sector Reforms, the MP highlighted the launch of the Energy Sector Recovery Programme aimed at achieving financial stability.

Efforts under this program include renegotiating contracts with Independent Power Producers to reduce costs and alleviate fiscal strain.

He expressed optimism that the upcoming phase two of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant will reduce gas imports and provide significant fiscal savings for the country.

Touching on Monetary Policy, he commended the Bank of Ghana for maintaining a prudent monetary stance aimed at sustaining inflation reduction and strengthening financial sector stability.

He noted measures such as recapitalizing state-owned banks and rebuilding international reserves as crucial to achieving these goals.

Suggesting a path forward for emerging markets, the Sagnarigu MP recommended prioritizing structural reforms to enhance fiscal resilience, improve governance, and foster private sector investment — reforms he emphasized as critical for sustaining economic growth and development.

On International Support, he observed a strong call for increased support from international financial institutions to address challenges such as weak domestic revenue mobilization and limited access to international capital markets.

He argued that tailored and enhanced technical support is essential for sustainable development.

On Debt Management, the MP asserted that effective debt management strategies, including timely debt restructuring and fiscal discipline, are vital to preventing debt distress and ensuring long-term economic stability.

He commended the recent announcement by the Finance Minister regarding an amendment to the Public Procurement Act to require a commencement certificate before a project can begin.

He praised this measure, stating that it would save the country from having to pay for projects that were never executed.

Finally, he mentioned that agricultural mechanization programs will also help reduce the debt burden, and emphasized the need for increased investment in the agricultural sector.

KA

Stakeholders will gather on Thursday, 1st May 2025, at the Women in Sustainability Africa Summit (WiSA) and Launch.

The summit is scheduled to take place at Wesley Towers, Ridge, Accra – Ghana, from 8:30 a.m.

The maiden event is under the theme, “The Role of Women as a Source of Labour and Agents of Sustainability.”

The programme, organised by Women in Sustainability Africa (WiSA), is in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment, the Ministry of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, the League of Extraordinary Women Network, and EIB Network.

The summit will be graced by H.E. Jewel Taylor – former Vice President of Liberia; Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey – Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Ghana; Rashid Pelpuo – Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Ghana; Issifu Seidu – Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Ghana; and Nana Yaa Sarpong, Women and Sustainability Advocate.

Other speakers include the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, Ghana – Hon. George Opare Addo; MASLOC boss – Hon. Abigail Elorm Yaa Mensah; H.E. Edmond Moukala – UNESCO Representative to Ghana; Ama Pratt – Press Secretary and Spokesperson to the Vice President of Ghana; Community Impact Strategist, Global Partnerships Advisor and Leadership Development Consultant – Dr. KY Dele; and the Chief Executive Officer of Excellence In Broadcasting (EIB) – Nathaniel Kwabena Anokye Adisi.

According to the Convenor, Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong, the organisation will work with men, HeForShe champions, CSOs, corporate institutions, and local and international development organisations to bring all women and women’s groups together (especially those at the grassroots level) to foster the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across Africa.

Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong said this summit stands for the development of new perspectives and catalytic ideas towards accelerating growth for the achievement of the SDGs, including Gender Equality.

According to her, she believes women are best positioned for ethical leadership and to lead the drive for the achievement of the SDGs, so that “they could leave this world in a better shape than everyone came to meet it.”

“And that we must achieve this through the collaborative efforts of both men and women. We redefine INCLUSION to include working hand in hand with our men. We work with all persons, bodies and HeForShe Champions to fast-track the achievement of the SDGs and to bridge the inequality gaps. We encourage our men to stand with our women. Together we stand, divided we fall,” she concluded.

Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong, an accomplished media practitioner celebrating 26 years of experience in media this year, is the General Manager of EIB Network, an entrepreneur, an international trade and business consultant, and also an ordained pastor of Eternal Life Church Global.

Please register for FREE and join us at the Official Launch on Thursday, 1st May 2025 at 8:30 a.m. in Accra, Ghana, as we unveil these catalytic ideas.

Register here

You may also reach out to us on +233 207 331 444 for Sponsorships, Collaborations, Partnerships, Volunteering, etc.

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The Ghana cedi gained 0.63% week-on-week versus the US dollar last week as demand pressures waned.

The local currency consequently closed the week at GH¢15.96 to one US dollar. This narrowed its year-to-date loss to 1.74%.

Foreign exchange demand pressures appeared subdued last week as the market remained mostly liquid. The Bank of Ghana offered US$190 million through its daily auctions last week, but only US$84.80 million was absorbed by market participants. This indicated an acceptance ratio of 44.6%.

Additionally, US$65 million traded on the interbank market, boosting liquidity.

This helped the Ghana cedi strengthen by 6.6% vs the US dollar, closing as the best-performing currency on the interbank market among the basket of 15 Sub-Saharan currencies.

It began this week unchanged to the American greenback.

On the outlook for this week, analysts expect the sustained moderation in foreign exchange demand pressures, coupled with timely central bank interventions.

This will further improve market liquidity and provide a respite to the Ghana cedi.

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.

Stakeholders will gather on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at the Women In Sustainability Africa Summit (WiSA) and Launch.

The summit is slated to take place at Wesley Towers, Ridge, Accra – Ghana from 8:30am.

The maiden event is under the theme, ‘The role of women as source of labour and agents of sustainability.’

The Programme organised by Women In Sustainability Africa (WiSA) is in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender Children and Social Protection, Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment, and Ministry of State for Climate Change and Sustainability , the League of Extraordinary Women Network and EIB Network.

The summit will be graced by H.E Jewel Taylor – former Vice President of Liberia, Dr.Agnes Naa Momo Lartey – Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection – Ghana, Hon. Rashid Pelpuo – Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment – Ghana, Hon.Issifu Seidu – Minister of State, for Climate Change and Sustainability – Ghana and Nana Yaa Sarpong, Women and Sustainability Advocate 

Other speakers include, Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment Ghana – Hon. George Opare Addo, MASLOC boss – Hon. Abigail Elorm Yaa Mensah, H.E Edmond Moukala – UNESCO Representative to Ghana, Ama Pratt – Press Secretary and Spokesperson to the Vice President of Ghana, Community Impact Strategist, Global Partnerships Advisor and Leadership Development Consultant – Dr.KY Dele and the Chief Executive Officer of Excellence In Broadcasting(EIB) – Nathaniel Kwabena Anokye Adisi.

According to the convenor, Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong said, the organisation will work with men, he for she champions, CSOs, Corporate Institutions, local and International Development Organizations to bring all women and women groups together (especially those at the grassroots level) to foster the achievement of the Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) accross Africa.

Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong said this summit stands for the development of new perspectives and catalytic ideas towards accelerating growth for the achievement of the SDGs including Gender Inequality. 

 According to her, she believes women are best positioned for ethical leadership and to lead the drive for the achievement of the SDGs so they could leave this world in a better shape than everyone came to meet it.

“And that we must achieve this through the collaborative efforts of both men and women. We redefine INCLUSION to include working hand in hand with our men. We work with all persons, bodies and He for She Champions to fast track the achievement of the SDGs and to bridge the Inequality gaps. We encourage our men to stand with our women. Together we stand, Divided we fall,” She concluded.

Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong, an accomplished Media Practitioner who celebrates 26 years experience in Media this year, is the General Manager of EIB Network, an Entrepreneur, an International Trade & Business Consultant and also an ordained Pastor of Eternal Life Church Global.

https://form.jotform.com/datexgh/women-in-sustainability-summit-regi

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, Ghana will once again observe May Day as a statutory public holiday. As is customary, many workers will leave their offices by noon on Wednesday, with some not returning until the following Monday. This pattern, common for holidays falling on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, results in significant productivity losses. These midweek holidays disrupt workflows, as employees often extend their time off by traveling or taking additional unofficial leave, effectively turning a single holiday into a multi-day break. To address this challenge, we should consider realigning our public holidays to fall on Mondays, fostering long weekends that boost both economic activity and worker well-being while minimizing disruptions to productivity.

The Economic Cost of Midweek Holidays

The problem of midweek holidays is not unique to May Day. When holidays like Founder’s Day, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, or Constitutional Day fall on a Tuesday or Thursday, some employees may take the adjacent Monday or Friday off, creating an extended break. For instance, a Tuesday holiday might prompt workers to leave early on Monday or not return until Wednesday, while a Thursday holiday could lead to absences stretching into the following Monday. This behavior, while understandable, reduces productive hours, disrupts business operations, and strains economic output. Public holidays falling midweek can reduce GDP contribution from sectors like manufacturing and services by up to 2% for the affected week, as businesses face lower output and increased absenteeism.

Economic Benefits

Beyond boosting productivity, realigning holidays to Mondays offers social and economic benefits. Long weekends provide workers with opportunities for rest, family time, and travel, improving mental health and work-life balance. Studies from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggest that extended weekends reduce workplace stress and burnout, potentially lowering healthcare costs. Economically, the tourism sector could see significant gains, as Ghanaians are more likely to visit local attractions or hometowns during long weekends. For instance, a 2023 study by the Ghana Tourism Authority found that domestic tourism spending increased by 12% during three-day weekends compared to single-day holidays. This additional revenue could support small businesses and create jobs in rural areas

Learning from Global Practices

Several countries have successfully addressed this issue by scheduling public holidays on Mondays, creating long weekends that benefit both workers and the economy. In the United States, holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day are fixed on Mondays, ensuring minimal disruption to the workweek. Similarly, Canada observes holidays such as Victoria Day and Canada Day on Mondays when they do not fall on their exact dates. The United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand also adopt this approach for holidays like Bank Holidays and Anzac Day. Research from the OECD shows that long weekends encourage domestic tourism and consumer spending, with countries like Australia seeing a 5-7% increase in retail and hospitality revenue during such periods. For Ghana, aligning holidays with Mondays could stimulate demand in tourism, retail, and transportation sectors, as workers use the extended weekend to travel or engage in leisure activities.

Balancing Tradition and Flexibility

Not all holidays can or should be shifted. Fixed-date holidays tied to cultural, religious, or historical significance—such as New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and Farmers’ Day—must remain on their designated dates to preserve their meaning. However, other holidays, including Constitutional Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founder’s Day, and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, are more flexible and could be realigned to Mondays without losing their significance. For example, Constitutional Day, currently observed on January 7, could be moved to the second Monday in January. May Day could become the first Monday in May, Founder’s Day the first Monday in August, and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day the third Monday in September. Such changes would create predictable long weekends, reducing the likelihood of employees taking additional days off and ensuring a more consistent workweek.

Way forward

To implement this reform, Parliament could amend the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 986) to designate specific Mondays for these movable holidays. The precedent already exists: Farmers’ Day is fixed as the first Friday in December, demonstrating that holidays can be scheduled for consistency. A similar approach could be applied to other holidays, with clear guidelines ensuring that fixed-date holidays remain untouched.

the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture could promote domestic tourism packages tied to these long weekends, maximizing economic impact.

NB: The writer is an economist, lawyer, and a public policy advocate. He is the West Africa Regional Director of CUTS International. He can be contacted via email: [email protected] or www.cuts-accra.org