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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Mind of the Writer Blog of Sunday, 11 May 2025

Source: Etsey Atisu

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

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

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

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

There is also cooking competition among women groups.

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

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

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

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

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

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

President John Dramani Mahama has extended warm Mother’s Day greetings to Ghanaian mothers, with a special tribute to Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, who is currently recovering from an illness.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang was reported to have suffered a sudden illness on Friday, March 28, 2025, and subsequently sought medical attention at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) the following day.

Government noted in the statement that medical experts advised the Vice President to seek further treatment abroad as a precautionary measure to support her full recovery.

Following medical advice, Prof Opoku-Agyemang commenced a three-week medical leave on April 7, 2025, prioritising her health and well-being.

In a message posted on his official Facebook page on Sunday, May 11, President Mahama revealed that he visited the Vice President earlier in the day and expressed his delight at her recovery.

“A special Mother’s Day greeting to my Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, whom I had the pleasure of visiting earlier this morning,” he wrote. “She is taking a deserved rest after recovering from illness and looking forward to resuming her duties soon.”

President Mahama took the opportunity to extend his appreciation to all mothers across the country

“To her and all Ghanaian mothers, I say Happy Mother’s Day.”

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

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

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader in Parliament

Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has opened up about a deeply personal and spiritual experience during a turbulent period in his life in 2015.

In an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey on May 9,2025, the Effutu MP shared how his faith in God sustained him through financial and professional hardship.

Afenyo-Markin revealed that during this time, he felt his career was under threat and his life had been turned upside down.

Despite the pressure, he clung to his Catholic upbringing and the Methodist faith he learned as a child.

“The teachings of the Catholic Church and the Methodist church stayed with me, and so did the Methodist hymns. They became my source of strength,” he said.

Describing the emotional depth of his crisis, he recalled a moment when he believed he had been set up and feared the end of his career. But his mum encouraged him to pray.

“I remember my mother telling me, ‘Let’s pray.’ That moment gave me hope,” he shared.

During one of those difficult nights, he said he had a powerful spiritual encounter.

“I suddenly began to sing a hymn my grandmother taught me. The room felt full of people, though I was alone. I felt chills. I had experienced God’s presence,” he recounted.

Afenyo-Markin emphasised that faith is essential during difficult times and encouraged people of all religions to trust in God.

“Whether you are a Muslim or Christian, Catholic or Methodist, serve God well and hold on to Him,” he urged.

He also shared that he once faced severe debt and business collapse. Seeking divine direction, he went to the Achimota Forest to pray, where he received a vision in a dream.

“God revealed Himself to me. It took ten years, but that vision eventually became reality,” he noted.

He encouraged others not to let guilt or past mistakes push them into depression.

“Take your mistakes to God in prayer. He is always ready to start something new with you. I have experienced my God, and I continue to pray for more strength to serve both Him and humanity,” he said.

MRA/EB

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CEO of Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi

Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu Constituency, Ras Mubarak, has criticized Sammy Gyamfi, Chief Executive Officer of Goldbod, over a viral social media video showing him gifting an undisclosed amount of dollars to fetish priestess turned pastor, Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Agradaa.

Mubarak argued that such actions could undermine the value of the local currency and have serious consequences for the economy.

In a Facebook post sighted by GhanaWeb, he stated that Sammy Gyamfi’s actions could be interpreted as a lack of confidence in the cedi, despite its recent appreciation.

He urged government office holders to demonstrate confidence in the cedi and the economy, discouraging the practice of giving away forex.

“For government office holders, it’s expected that they prioritize national interests and show confidence in our country’s economy and currency. You cannot justify or defend a public office holder giving away forex, especially when the cedi is performing well. Even if the foreign currency is well-earned, such actions could weaken the local currency and economy,” part of his post read.

“Already, we are struggling with schools, hotels, and property owners charging in USD. Sammy Gyamfi’s poor judgment could be seen as a lack of confidence in the cedi and a contradiction of government regulations. This could negatively impact the cedi’s value and stability,” he added.

Read Ras Mubarak’s Facebook post below:

Ras Mubarak ‘orders’ GRA to chase Agradaa to pay gift tax on dollars cash out

Following Agradaa’s receipt of dollars from the Chief Executive Officer of Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu Constituency, Ras Mubarak, has called on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to ensure she pays the required gift tax on the amount received.

He stated that the payment of gift tax is enshrined in law, and Agradaa must fulfill her tax obligations.

In Facebook post sighted by GhanaWeb, the former MP said, “On Mama Pat ‘Agradaa,’ she has to pay gift tax. It’s the law. The Ghana Revenue Authority must go after Agradaa for the tax component on the gift.”

His comment follows a viral social media video showing Sammy Gyamfi gifting Agradaa an undisclosed amount of dollars.

Mubarak also argued that Sammy Gyamfi’s actions could undermine the value of the local currency and negatively impact the economy.

Meanwhile, Sammy Gyamfi has apologized for his actions, stating that his intent was to assist those in need.

He described the incident as unfortunate and regrettable.

SA

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Featured

Enoch Darfah Frimpong

Politics

May – 11 – 2025 , 11:28

2 minutes read

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has announced a temporary suspension of gas supply due to a technical fault.

In a statement signed by spokesperson, Richmond Rockson, Esq., the Ministry confirmed that the disruption was caused by a damaged compressor on the Jubilee FPSO Kwame Nkrumah.

“On Saturday, May 10, 2025, around 4 pm, damage to a compressor on the Jubilee FPSO Kwame Nkrumah has led to a temporary suspension of gas supply,” the statement read.

According to the ministry, preliminary assessments indicate the need for significant repairs.

The Ministry assured the public that a technical team is working diligently to restore the supply as quickly as possible.

It further noted that regular updates will be provided to the public.

“Initial assessments suggest the need for significant repairs. The team is currently working diligently to implement necessary repairs to restore the supply of gas as soon as possible.

“Regular updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the ministry added.

GH₵960k ‘bribery’ allegation against Parliament, Defence Committee baseless – Agalga

Fetish priestess turned pastor, Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Agradaa

Following Agradaa’s receipt of dollars from the Chief Executive Officer of Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu Constituency, Ras Mubarak, has called on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to ensure she pays the required gift tax on the amount received.

He stated that the payment of gift tax is enshrined in law, and Agradaa must fulfill her tax obligations.

In Facebook post sighted by GhanaWeb, the former MP said, “On Mama Pat ‘Agradaa,’ she has to pay gift tax. It’s the law. The Ghana Revenue Authority must go after Agradaa for the tax component on the gift.”

His comment follows a viral social media video showing Sammy Gyamfi gifting Agradaa an undisclosed amount of dollars.

Mubarak also argued that Sammy Gyamfi’s actions could undermine the value of the local currency and negatively impact the economy.

Meanwhile, Sammy Gyamfi has apologized for his actions, stating that his intent was to assist those in need.

He described the incident as unfortunate and regrettable.

SA

Read Ras Mubarak’s post below:

Former Kumbungu MP, Ras Mubarak

Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu Constituency, Ras Mubarak, has criticised Chief Executive Officer of Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, over a viral video showing him gifting an undisclosed amount of dollars to Evangelist, Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.

Ras Mubarak argued that such actions could undermine the value of the local currency and have serious consequences for the economy.

In a Facebook post sighted by GhanaWeb, he stated that Sammy Gyamfi’s actions could be interpreted as a lack of confidence in the cedi, despite its recent appreciation.

He urged government office holders to demonstrate confidence in the cedi and the economy, discouraging the practice of giving away forex.

“For government office holders, it’s expected that they prioritize national interests and show confidence in our country’s economy and currency. You cannot justify or defend a public office holder giving away forex, especially when the cedi is performing well.

“Even if the foreign currency is well-earned, such actions could weaken the local currency and economy, Already, we are struggling with schools, hotels, and property owners charging in USD,” parts of his post read.

He added, “Sammy Gyamfi’s poor judgment could be seen as a lack of confidence in the cedi and a contradiction of government regulations. This could negatively impact the cedi’s value and stability.”

Read Ras Mubarak’s Facebook post below:

S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Ghana’s foreign-currency credit rating from Selective Default to CCC+.

The agency’s decision, announced on Friday, May 9, 2025, reflects increasing investor confidence and acknowledges the positive strides made under the leadership of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

S&P highlighted Ghana’s progress in tackling its debt challenges and stabilizing its economy following a period of financial strain.

A key factor in the upgrade was the near completion of negotiations with the country’s remaining private lenders, a development that has eased considerable pressure on government finances. The successful Eurobond exchange in October 2024, which occurred prior to the current administration, was also noted.

The rating agency also commended the government’s commitment to implementing crucial reforms, which are beginning to yield tangible results. Notably, inflation, although still elevated at 22%, is showing a downward trend, supported by a strengthening cedi and reduced energy costs.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has spearheaded several significant changes aimed at improving fiscal management. These include updates to financial laws, the reintroduction of spending regulations, and concrete steps towards establishing an independent fiscal council. These measures are designed to foster greater accountability and efficiency in the management of public funds.

Despite inheriting substantial outstanding debts, President Mahama’s government, which assumed office 122 days ago following the December 2024 elections, has prioritized expenditure cuts over increasing taxes. This approach aligns with the conditions of Ghana’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The government has set ambitious fiscal targets, aiming for a budget surplus of 1.5% of GDP in 2025 and committing to limit annual spending growth to below 10% for the next four years. This represents a significant shift from the average annual spending growth of 28% experienced over the preceding two decades.

S&P projects a substantial reduction in Ghana’s public debt, net of cash reserves, from 71.4% of GDP in 2024 to a more sustainable 47.4% by 2028. Furthermore, interest payments, which previously consumed nearly half of the government’s revenue, have decreased to approximately 25% following the debt restructuring initiatives.

While acknowledging remaining risks, such as potential increases in spending during the 2024 election year and ongoing global economic uncertainties, S&P emphasized that Ghana’s improved economic standing, consistent reforms, and positive growth prospects underpin the improved credit rating.

The agency also recognized Ghana’s resilient economic growth of 5.7% in 2024, driven by strong performances in the industrial and services sectors. However, they cautioned about the long-term threats to cocoa production posed by illegal gold mining activities.