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Week 16 Match Report – Bibiani Gold Stars 3-2 Dreams FC

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Gold Stars host second-placed Medeama SC next as Fritz Schmid seeks to make it two wins Gold Stars host second-placed Medeama SC next as Fritz Schmid seeks to make it two wins

Bibiani Gold Stars recovered from 2-0 down to beat visiting Dreams FC 3-2 in a Ghana Premier League Week 16 thriller at Dun’s Park on Sunday, December 28, 2025.

Abdul Razak Salifu had looked like stealing the headlines with a well-taken early double for the ‘Still Believe’ but the hosts powered back to maintain their perfect home run this term.

Salifu opened the scoring just six minutes into the game and added a second for Dreams FC in the 20th minute to give the visitors a well-deserved lead.

The defending champions responded after recess as they halved the deficit on 74 minutes and pulled level late on.

The pressure paid off as the hosts struck at the death to secure a dramatic victory and remain in fifth place in the league standings with 20 points.

Dreams FC’s disappointment on the road continues as they are yet to secure an away win. The defeat means Winfred Dormon’s team drop to 15th in the league table and will look to bounce back when they host Basake Holy Stars.

Gold Stars host second-placed Medeama SC next as Fritz Schmid seeks to make it two wins on the spin.

Anlo State mourns passing of Agbotadua Kumassah

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Until his demise, Agbotadua Kumassah served as the Agbotadua (Linguist) to the Tay Agbozo Stool Until his demise, Agbotadua Kumassah served as the Agbotadua (Linguist) to the Tay Agbozo Stool

The Anlo Dukor (State) has been thrown into deep mourning following the passing of Agbotadua Kumassah, a revered traditional officeholder, distinguished historian, and custodian of Anlo-Ewe heritage.

An official communication from the Kumassah Family to the Anlo Dukor Council, dated December 22, 2025 and made available to the Ghana News Agency, confirmed that the late Agbotadua Kumassah, known in private life as John Fred Kwaku Kumassah, passed away on December 9, 2025, at the Tema General Hospital.

Until his demise, Agbotadua Kumassah served as the Agbotadua (Linguist) to the Tay Agbozo Stool of Dzelukofe, a position of immense customary significance within the Anlo traditional system.

He also acted as the principal spokesperson to the Awomefia of Anlo, Togbi Sri II, a role that placed him at the heart of traditional governance, diplomacy, and customary interpretation in the Anlo State.

Beyond his formal traditional responsibilities, the late Agbotadua Kumassah was widely celebrated as a historian and storyteller, whose life’s work was dedicated to preserving and transmitting the history, identity, and collective memory of the Anlo-Ewe people.

He was a leading voice in narrating the Anlo-Ewe exodus, cultural philosophy, and oral traditions, bridging ancestral knowledge with contemporary scholarship.

He authored several books and historical texts on the history and migration of the Anlo-Ewe people, works that continue to serve as valuable reference materials for researchers, students, traditional authorities, and cultural enthusiasts both within Ghana and beyond.

His intellectual contributions have left an enduring imprint on the documentation and preservation of Anlo heritage.

In accordance with custom and tradition, the Kumassah Family, together with its allied families, has formally notified the Anlo Dukor Council of the royal home call and is currently undertaking the necessary funeral arrangements.

The family has indicated that details regarding the burial and final funeral rites will be officially communicated once consultations and customary processes are concluded.

Given the late Agbotadua Kumassah’s status, lineage, and customary responsibilities, the family has humbly sought the guidance and direction of the Anlo Dukor Council, particularly on matters relating to chieftaincy protocols, customary rites, and funeral observances, to ensure that he is accorded a dignified and befitting burial in line with tradition.

The passing of Agbotadua Kumassah marks a profound loss not only to his family but to the entire Anlo-Ewe community, traditional institutions, and the broader cultural and academic community. He is remembered as a man of wisdom, eloquence, humility, and deep cultural conviction, whose voice gave life to history and whose words carried the soul of a people.

As Anlo mourns, tributes continue to pour in, celebrating a life devoted to service, knowledge, and the preservation of ancestral truth. His legacy remains firmly etched in the cultural consciousness of the Anlo-Ewe people.

Cudjoe Questions NPP Intellectual Capacity After Electoral Defeat

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New Patriotic Party (NPP)
New Patriotic Party (NPP)

Franklin Cudjoe, founding president of policy think tank IMANI Africa, has publicly criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he describes as a decline in intellectual caliber, stating that the once vibrant opposition now comprises mostly uninspiring personnel.

The policy analyst made the assessment December 28 in a social media post reflecting on the party’s current state following its resounding defeat in the December 2024 general elections. Cudjoe expressed concern about what he characterized as a bankruptcy of quality human resources within the party’s ranks.

“This is the challenge of the NPP. The once intellectually vibrant party is now mostly made up uninspiring souls, it is not good at all. Hmmm,” Cudjoe wrote on his social media platforms.

The IMANI Africa president suggested the personnel deficit represents a serious challenge for the opposition party and urged leadership to address the issue urgently. His comments add to a series of critiques he has directed at the NPP since its electoral loss to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Cudjoe previously claimed his organization predicted the NPP’s downfall as early as January 2022, long before the party’s defeat in December 2024. He stated that IMANI had warned the party about the perilous path it was treading but that crucial advice went unheeded.

The policy analyst has been particularly vocal about the former NPP government’s fiscal management. In November 2025, he accused the Akufo Addo led administration of disbursing funds without proper oversight, comparing it unfavorably to the prudence demonstrated by the current NDC administration.

Cudjoe also rejected suggestions by former Education Minister Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum that the NPP lost voter goodwill due to communication challenges. The IMANI president dismissed this analysis in a terse social media response earlier in the year.

Franklin Cudjoe founded IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, which has been consistently ranked among the top five most influential think tanks in sub Saharan Africa and among the top 100 worldwide. He was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2010 and has consulted with the UK Prime Minister’s office on British aid effectiveness in Africa.

The NPP, which governed Ghana from January 2017 to January 2025 under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, suffered a significant electoral defeat to John Dramani Mahama and the NDC in December 2024. The party is currently in opposition and undergoing internal restructuring following the loss.

Party leadership has not yet responded publicly to Cudjoe’s latest critique about intellectual capacity and personnel quality within its ranks.

‘First Christmas under Mahama yet many people cannot afford a fowl’

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Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, has expressed concern over the state of the economy, saying conditions on the ground do not reflect government claims that the economy is improving under the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to him, economic activities in the markets remain slow, with ordinary Ghanaians struggling to cope with the high cost of living.

“Things are very tough. When you go to the market, you realise that business is very slow. The government says the economy is doing well and that there is no hardship but that is not the situation on the ground,” he said.

Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku questioned official inflation figures, arguing that regardless of the percentages announced, prices of basic goods remain high.

“They talk about inflation, whether it is 6 percent or 24 percent but inflation is inflation. The reality is that prices are still high,” he stated.

Using food prices to illustrate his point, he noted that expectations of relief under the government’s much-publicised reset agenda have not materialised.

“I thought by now kenkey would be selling at two cedis but it is still five cedis. This is the first Christmas under this government, yet some people cannot even afford to buy fowl. We are not feeling the reset agenda. Things are still hard,” he added.

The minority’s claims of intimidation are false – NDC MP

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Member of Parliament for Odododiodoo, Alfred Ashie Nii Kotey Member of Parliament for Odododiodoo, Alfred Ashie Nii Kotey

The Member of Parliament for Odododiodoo, Alfred Ashie Nii Kotey, has dismissed assertions that the Majority caucus is intimidating the Minority.

He maintained that contrary to these claims, the Majority has been highly cooperative and has consistently prioritized dialogue to ensure the smooth running of the House.

Kotey posited that while the Majority side possesses the numerical strength to push through any agenda using their “super-majority” status, they have intentionally chosen a path of restraint.

He suggested that the Minority may simply feel intimidated by the numbers rather than by any specific actions taken against them.

He emphasised that because the Majority believes in democracy and the rule of law, they have consistently sought to reason with the opposition.

However, he characterized the NPP’s response as unreasonable and chaotic, noting that they have frequently undermined the rules of the House, refused to engage in meaningful dialogue, and occasionally resorted to violent behavior to express their grievances.

To illustrate his point, the lawmaker cited the Kpandai seat incident.

He stated that despite being given every opportunity to state their case within the frameworks of the House, the Minority refused to reason and instead used violence to disrupt proceedings.

In the midst of these challenges, Kotey commended the Speaker for remaining fair but firm, praising his ability to discharge his duties in strict accordance with parliamentary regulations.

Reflecting on his first term, Kotey admitted that his experience in Parliament has been overwhelming but deeply rewarding. As a first-entrant, he has focused on garnering the experience necessary to navigate the complexities of the legislature.

He has already been active in his oversight role, submitting several questions that required Ministers to appear before the House.

These inquiries notably focused on critical local issues, such as the redevelopment of the Salaga Market and the urgent water situation within his constituency.

Alfred Ashie Nii Kotey appealed to his constituents to maintain their trust in the current administration.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to its “reset agenda,” promising to continue working toward job creation, a stable economy and the overall safety and security of all Ghanaians.

‘First Christmas under Mahama yet many people cannot afford a fowl’

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Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, has expressed concern over the state of the economy, saying conditions on the ground do not reflect government claims that the economy is improving under the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to him, economic activities in the markets remain slow, with ordinary Ghanaians struggling to cope with the high cost of living.

“Things are very tough. When you go to the market, you realise that business is very slow. The government says the economy is doing well and that there is no hardship but that is not the situation on the ground,” he said.

Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku questioned official inflation figures, arguing that regardless of the percentages announced, prices of basic goods remain high.

“They talk about inflation, whether it is 6 percent or 24 percent but inflation is inflation. The reality is that prices are still high,” he stated.

Using food prices to illustrate his point, he noted that expectations of relief under the government’s much-publicised reset agenda have not materialised.

“I thought by now kenkey would be selling at two cedis but it is still five cedis. This is the first Christmas under this government, yet some people cannot even afford to buy fowl. We are not feeling the reset agenda. Things are still hard,” he added.

Ambassador Victor Smith courts diaspora investment in Las Vegas, pledges to cut bottlenecks

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The engagement brought together Ghanaian residents from the Las Vegas and Reno areas The engagement brought together Ghanaian residents from the Las Vegas and Reno areas

Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, has engaged Ghanaian professionals, community leaders, and association executives in Las Vegas, Nevada, on diaspora-led development and investment opportunities in Ghana.

The engagement brought together Ghanaian residents from the Las Vegas and Reno areas, as well as invited African and American stakeholders, to dialogue on how diaspora expertise and capital could translate into jobs and improved incomes back home.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Smith said Ghana was now better positioned for partnerships and was open to serious, mutually beneficial investments aimed at creating employment and decent salaries to reduce incentives for irregular migration.

Ghana’s Ambassador to US presents credentials to Donald Trump

He indicated that the country was seeking development partners rather than aid, arguing that Ghana needed to shift away from an overreliance on external assistance decades after independence and now wants to attract credible partners with longterm development priorities.

The Ambassador also assured participants that he would use his office to help open doors for prospective investors and reduce barriers that often slow down diaspora-led projects, while expressing his commitment to ensuring that investors would not be forced to navigate unnecessary “middlemen” or administrative blockages in their efforts to do business in Ghana.

The meetings were hosted by the President of the Las Vegas Ghanaian community, Edmond Sarpong, a cyber security expert and CEO of Prime Tech Asaociates together with Dr Kufour, a Pediatrician at Pioneer Pediatrics and Eng. Kofi Baryor, CEO of Baryor Construction.

AM

Also, watch below Amnesty International’s ‘Protect the Protest’ documentary as the world marks International Human Rights Day 2025

The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana.

Who deserves to be honoured this year?


Nominate now 👉 https://ghanaweb.com/ghanaexcellenceawards/nominate

CNMRUG leaders build capacity to strengthen Okada union governance

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The training focused on strategic leadership, organizational management, conflict resolution The training focused on strategic leadership, organizational management, conflict resolution

The national leadership of the Commercial National Motor Riders Union of Ghana (CNMRUG) has participated in a leadership development programme aimed at strengthening organizational governance and effective leadership.

The programme was facilitated by Dr Mohammed Sumaila, Chief Executive Officer of Okadamotto, a renowned leadership expert widely recognized across Asia for his exceptional training approach and results-driven leadership development methods.

The training focused on strategic leadership, organizational management, conflict resolution and sustainable union development.

Participants were taken through practical sessions designed to enhance decision-making, accountability and effective representation of members at both national and grassroots levels.

Speaking during the programme, Dr Mohammed Sumaila emphasised the importance of visionary leadership and ethical responsibility in union management.

He noted that strong leadership structures are essential for advancing the welfare of motor riders and ensuring long-term growth within the sector.

Leaders of the Commercial National Motor Riders Union of Ghana expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing the training as timely and impactful.

They highlighted that the knowledge and skills gained would contribute significantly to improving union operations and member engagement nationwide.

The leadership development programme forms part of broader efforts by the union to build institutional capacity and promote professionalism within the commercial motor riding industry in Ghana.

AM

Also, watch below Amnesty International’s ‘Protect the Protest’ documentary as the world marks International Human Rights Day 2025

The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana.

Who deserves to be honoured this year?


Nominate now 👉 https://ghanaweb.com/ghanaexcellenceawards/nominate

‘First Christmas under Mahama yet many people cannot even afford to buy a fowl’

0

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, has expressed concern over the state of the economy, saying conditions on the ground do not reflect government claims that the economy is improving under the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to him, economic activities in the markets remain slow, with ordinary Ghanaians struggling to cope with the high cost of living.

“Things are very tough. When you go to the market, you realise that business is very slow. The government says the economy is doing well and that there is no hardship but that is not the situation on the ground,” he said.

Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku questioned official inflation figures, arguing that regardless of the percentages announced, prices of basic goods remain high.

“They talk about inflation, whether it is 6 percent or 24 percent but inflation is inflation. The reality is that prices are still high,” he stated.

Using food prices to illustrate his point, he noted that expectations of relief under the government’s much-publicised reset agenda have not materialised.

“I thought by now kenkey would be selling at two cedis but it is still five cedis. This is the first Christmas under this government, yet some people cannot even afford to buy fowl. We are not feeling the reset agenda. Things are still hard,” he added.

‘First Christmas under Mahama yet many people cannot even afford to buy a fowl’

0

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku

Energy expert, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, has expressed concern over the state of the economy, saying conditions on the ground do not reflect government claims that the economy is improving under the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to him, economic activities in the markets remain slow, with ordinary Ghanaians struggling to cope with the high cost of living.

“Things are very tough. When you go to the market, you realise that business is very slow. The government says the economy is doing well and that there is no hardship but that is not the situation on the ground,” he said.

Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku questioned official inflation figures, arguing that regardless of the percentages announced, prices of basic goods remain high.

“They talk about inflation, whether it is 6 percent or 24 percent but inflation is inflation. The reality is that prices are still high,” he stated.

Using food prices to illustrate his point, he noted that expectations of relief under the government’s much-publicised reset agenda have not materialised.

“I thought by now kenkey would be selling at two cedis but it is still five cedis. This is the first Christmas under this government, yet some people cannot even afford to buy fowl. We are not feeling the reset agenda. Things are still hard,” he added.

Salaga South MP calls for peace, unity and development at Kulaw 2025 Youth Homecoming

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Ibrahimiah has assured the people of her continued commitment Ibrahimiah has assured the people of her continued commitment

The Member of Parliament for the Salaga South Constituency, Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimiah, has called on chiefs, youth, settlers and opinion leaders to work together to build lasting peace and accelerate development in Kulaw and its surrounding communities.

Speaking at the grand durbar of the Kulaw 2025 Youth Homecoming held at Buma under the theme “Building Bridges of Peace: A Shared Responsibility of the Chiefs, the Youth and the Settlers,” Ibrahimiah said she felt compelled to openly address an important issue so that the people of Kulaw could make an informed judgment.

She explained that following the 2024 general elections, which her party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), won by the grace of Allah, the process of appointing Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) commenced, as required after every electoral cycle.

According to her, the East Gonja Municipality received about 21 applications for the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) position. While some applicants contacted her in her capacity as the area’s MP, others did not.

She stressed that no one was wrong in their approach, noting that as an individual, there was limited influence she could exert in the final selection process.

Touching on development, the MP said her vision is to extend educational and health facilities to Prang communities that currently lack such services.

She disclosed that, in partnership with the Human Secretariat of the National Security, her office is undertaking education and healthcare infrastructure projects in selected Prang communities within the constituency.

She revealed that Phase One of the project has already commenced in communities such as Akamadey, Kokodame and Basare, which are among the first beneficiaries of six-unit classroom blocks and health facilities.

In addition, Ibrahimiah announced plans to construct a steel bridge at Sarikibona Prang, which will link neighbouring communities and improve the movement of people, goods and services.

She also noted that the area is among the first beneficiaries of an agricultural mechanization centre to support farmers and agribusiness.

She emphasised that none of these achievements would be possible without peace, unity and cooperation. She therefore commended the Kulaw Wura, opinion leaders, and the Kulaw Youth Association for initiating and sustaining the annual Kulaw Homecoming.

She also expressed her heartfelt gratitude for being invited to this year’s celebration.

The MP urged the organizers to always invite heads of key agencies—such as the Education Directorate, the Feeder Roads Department and the Health Services—to future durbars, so they can hear directly from the people and respond to their needs.

She disclosed that an application is already before the Health Directorate for the renovation of the Kulaw Health Centre.

On healthcare financing, Ibrahimiah stressed the importance of expanding National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage to enable residents to access quality healthcare without financial hardship.

She reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with the NHIS office to roll out more interventions.

On education, she described it as the backbone of long-term development and said her office is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to improve access to quality education in the constituency.

She announced that a proposal she submitted for a Community Senior High School in Kulaw has been approved, with GETFund set to support the construction of the school.

In her concluding remarks, Ibrahimiah assured the people of her continued commitment to working with traditional authorities, youth groups, government institutions, NGOs and international partners to bring meaningful and impactful development to Kulaw and the entire Salaga South Constituency.

She urged all stakeholders to strengthen unity and build bridges of peace for a prosperous future.

She ended by praying for blessings upon Kulaw and the Salaga South Constituency.

AM

Also, watch below Amnesty International’s ‘Protect the Protest’ documentary as the world marks International Human Rights Day 2025

The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana.

Who deserves to be honoured this year?


Nominate now 👉 https://ghanaweb.com/ghanaexcellenceawards/nominate

Beneficiaries praise Donsey's Kitchen and Grills for feeding initiative

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Video | ‘God bless you’ – Beneficiaries praise Donsey’s Kitchen and Grills for Feeding with Dignity initiati

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Galamsey operator sentenced for slashing student with blade

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Owusu was arrested the same day and handed over to the police for prosecution. Owusu was arrested the same day and handed over to the police for prosecution.

A galamsey operator at Bompieso in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality has been sentenced to one year imprisonment with hard labour by the Tarkwa District Court One for slashing a student twice on the back with a blade.

The convict, Bismark Owusu, was charged with causing unlawful harm and pleaded guilty to the offence.

Prosecuting, Inspector of Police Patrick Essien told the court, presided over by Charles Owusu Nsiah, that the complainant, Bright Akwasi Aboagye, was a student residing at Bompieso.

On October 7, 2025, at about 12:00 noon, the complainant was riding a tricycle at Bompieso with one Ishmael on board when he suddenly saw a group of illegal miners holding a young man, accusing him of stealing gold-bearing stones.

Inspector Essien said Owusu was among the group and that the suspected thief was being beaten when the complainant intervened and struck one of the attackers to stop the assault.

The prosecutor said the illegal miners, unhappy with the complainant’s intervention, warned him to leave the scene.

According to the prosecution, Owusu also took offence at the complainant’s conduct and picked a fight with him and Ishmael, but they were separated and each went their separate ways.

Later that same day, the complainant and Ishmael were at a game centre when Owusu confronted them and warned that the earlier confrontation was not over.

Inspector Essien told the court that Owusu later attacked the complainant, slashing him twice on the back with a blade before fleeing when the victim started bleeding.

He said residents who rushed to the scene sent the complainant to the Bompieso Clinic for medical treatment, after which he reported the incident to the police.

Owusu was arrested the same day and handed over to the police for prosecution.

Mahama Ayariga leads NDC delegation to Bawku ahead of Samanpiid Festival

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The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has led a section of Members of Parliament from Northern Ghana and a delegation of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to Bawku ahead of the annual Samanpiid Festival.

The visit forms part of efforts to engage traditional authorities, community leaders and residents as preparations intensify for the culturally significant festival.

The delegation, made up of MPs from the Upper East, Upper West, Northern, Savannah and North East Regions, paid courtesy calls on key traditional leaders and stakeholders in the area.

Discussions focused on peace, unity and development, particularly in light of Bawku’s strategic importance and its history of tensions.

The Samanpiid Festival, which marks the end of the harvest season, is widely regarded as a symbol of resilience, gratitude and communal harmony.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Ayariga underscored the importance of sustaining peace in Bawku and its surrounding communities, stressing that development can only thrive in a stable environment.

He noted that the presence of MPs and party officials was also to demonstrate solidarity with the people and to reaffirm the NDC’s commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots engagement in the northern part of the country.

The delegation is expected to participate in activities related to the Samanpiid Festival and continue engagements with local leaders and youth groups.

Observers say the visit highlights the growing emphasis by political leaders on using cultural events as platforms to promote dialogue, national cohesion and development, especially in areas that have experienced long-standing challenges.

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.

ECG announces difficulty in power purchase for MMS meters

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ECG announces difficulty in power purchase for MMS meters

Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a technical challenge affecting the purchase of electricity credits for customers using MMS-compliant meters.

In a notice issued on Sunday, December 28, 2025, ECG said the challenge is disrupting the purchase of electricity credits through the ECG Mobile App, short codes, and third-party vendors.

According to the company, its technical team is working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

ECG apologised to customers for the inconvenience caused and assured them that efforts are underway to restore normal service.

Dry season triggers acute water crisis in Northern Region

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Several communities in Northern Ghana are facing a worsening water crisis as the dry season sets in, forcing residents particularly women to endure long, sleepless nights in search of potable water.

With the rains ending nearly two months ago, streams, wells and seasonal dams that sustain rural households have dried up, while boreholes are recording critically low water tables.

As a result, humans and livestock are increasingly competing for the same limited water sources, heightening health and sanitation risks.

The situation is especially dire in the Chereponi District, where there is no access to piped water. Residents depend largely on boreholes and a widely used caterpillar dam, which has become unsafe due to runoff carrying dirt, waste and animal droppings directly into the water body.

Speaking to Channel One News, a resident warned of the consequences if urgent action is not taken.

“All the animals in the community are feeding from the same water and defecating in it for human use. As a result, about 80% of the lives of people in Chereponi will be affected if action is not taken on this incident,” the resident said.

The Assembly Member for Chereponi West, Yaw Nasamu described the situation as a major water and sanitation challenge confronting the district, appealing for immediate support while urging residents to help protect existing water sources.

“I am appealing to philanthropists, NGOs, civil society organisations and the government to come to our aid. The people of Chereponi are suffering as a community,” the Assembly Member stated.

In Wanchiki, conditions are even more severe. The chief and residents say access to water has deteriorated sharply in recent weeks, compelling the community to appeal for peace and urgent intervention to prevent further hardship during the dry season.

Elsewhere in the Northern Region, the Juo community continues to battle multiple development challenges, including the absence of mobile network coverage. Water access has also been a long-standing problem, as non-functional boreholes forced residents and livestock to share limited water sources.

However, there has been some relief. A benevolent organisation, Van De Ard Machine Factory, has intervened by providing a mechanised borehole to the community, significantly easing the burden on residents.

Women in the community, speaking to Channel One News, expressed excitement and gratitude, recounting the hardships they previously endured and noting that the new water facility will improve household sanitation, health and daily living.

A representative of the organisation said the gesture was motivated by the urgent need to support deprived communities during the dry season, when access to safe water becomes a daily struggle.

Educator, community matriarch, and woman of uncommon generosity: Deborah Sesime Adzoa Kufe

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Educator, community matriarch, and woman of uncommon generosity: Deborah Sesime Adzoa Kufe

Madam Deborah Sesime Adzoa Kufe was a retired teacher, church leader, community organiser, and devoted mother to many. She passed away after a long and meaningful life of service to God, family, and society.

She was born on April 2, 1934, at Abutia-Kloe in the Volta Region to Presbyter B. K. Alifo, also known as Togbe Gbede, and Madam Monica Abra Nyagbenu, both natives of Abutia-Kloe. From early childhood, Madam Kufe was cherished by both her paternal and maternal families, a reflection of her warm spirit and the close kinship ties within her extended family.

At barely two years old, she was taken to Sokode-Bagble by her paternal aunt, Gladys Afa Alifo, who raised her as her own daughter alongside her husband, Teacher Dzah. Following the dissolution of her aunt’s marriage, she later lived with her uncle, the goldsmith Kofi Dake, also known as Gbede Kofi, and his wife Yawonor at Likpe-Mate. In 1941, she returned to Abutia-Kloe to be with her ailing mother. Sadly, not long after her return, she lost her mother, an event that marked her early life profoundly.

After her mother’s death, her father enrolled her in Primary Class One, beginning a schooling journey marked by diligence and strong academic performance. She temporarily discontinued her education at Stage Seven after experiencing early success in petty trading, an activity that would remain a lifelong passion.

Attempts were later made by family members to enrol her in nurses’ training, but the absence of formal certification prevented this path. She eventually returned to Abutia-Kloe, completed her education, and in 1951 was enrolled as a pupil teacher at Abutia-Teti.

Following three years of teaching, she undertook professional training at Amedzofe Training College in 1955 and began her career as a trained teacher at Abutia-Agove. She later completed post-modular training at Jasikan Training College. Over a teaching career spanning four decades, Madam Kufe served in Abutia-Teti, Abutia-Agove, Anfoega-Akukome, Adidome, Kpando, Vakpo, and again at Anfoega-Akukome, where she retired on July 31, 1995, as Head of Kindergarten. She also worked with the Non-Formal Education Scheme, teaching adults literacy and basic skills under the Ministry of Education.

In January 1955, she married Mr. Emmanuel Kufe of Anfoega-Akukome Akloba. Their marriage was blessed in March 1957, and together they raised six children, four daughters and two sons, one of whom predeceased her. Beyond her biological children, Madam Kufe and her husband raised a remarkable number of wards, mostly nieces, nephews, and children of friends. By conservative estimates, about eighty children passed through her home, nurtured without distinction. Many have gone on to become respected professionals, including professors, diplomats, bankers, nurses, technicians, and teachers. She often expressed gratitude to God for the privilege of motherhood in its broadest and most generous sense.

A lifelong member of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana, Madam Kufe was deeply committed to church work. Her devotion earned her appointment and ordination as a Presbyter of the Anfoega-Akukome congregation on March 7, 1993. From 1982, she served for many years as Zonal Leader of the Women’s Bible Fellowship, ministering across communities such as Kpando, Vakpo, Loga, Have, Aveme, and Nyagbo until ill health limited her active leadership. She was also a dedicated patron of several church groups and choirs and served on multiple church committees, remaining involved even when age and health slowed her steps.

Known variously as Daavi, Madam, Mama, or Mamma, she was widely admired for her warmth, hospitality, and openness. Her home was a refuge for the grieving, the troubled, and the joyful alike. In Anfoega, she became a living archive of local history and a trusted adviser in community affairs. She served as an adviser to the late Togbe Hodo III during his four-decade reign and as secretary to Mrs. Mercy Adzoa Atutor Hayibor of the CPP Women’s Wing during the CPP era. Her public service extended to roles as chairperson of the Anfoega Women’s Football Team, registration officer during public elections, civic educator, and community organiser.

Alongside teaching and community work, Madam Kufe remained an astute trader throughout her life. She dealt in household goods, foodstuffs, textiles, and provisions, supplied edible oil to Anfoega Secondary School, and traded peppers between Kpando-Torkor and Kalime in Togo. Even in retirement, she stayed active through petty trading, event rentals, and the establishment of the Masterpiece Band, which created income opportunities for young people across the Vakpo-Anfoega-Kpando area.

She travelled widely within Ghana through church and family engagements and spent periods in the United States visiting children and relatives. In all places, she carried with her the same spirit of generosity, discipline, and faith that defined her life.

Madam Deborah Sesime Adzoa Kufe lived as a woman of conviction, industry, and boundless love. She served God faithfully, gave herself fully to community and family, and created a home where countless lives were shaped. Having run her race with dignity and purpose, she now rests, awaiting her crown.

As her many children, relatives, and communities mourn her passing, they also celebrate a life that continues to echo in love, wisdom, and service.

Mamma, woe wo do lo. Hede nyuie.

AFCON 2025: Cameroon, Ivory Coast draw heavyweight clash

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Defending champion Ivory Coast ‍took a lead that ​lasted only five minutes ‌before Cameroon equalised ​to secure a 1-1 draw in their heavyweight clash at the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.

Amad ​Diallo scored for a second successive game to open the scoring for the ​Ivorians in the 51st minute, but full-back Junior Tchamadeu levelled for Cameroon with ‌the help of ‌a deflection in the 56th minute ‍at the Grande Stade Marrakech.

ALSO READ: Mahrez penalty sends Algeria to last-16

The countries, which have ‍eight Cup of Nations titles between them, now share the lead in Group F with four points apiece, followed by Mozambique on three.

Gabon, which lost 3-2 earlier on Sunday ​to Mozambique in Agadir, was eliminated as a result of the draw between Ivory Coast and Cameroon in Marrakech.

Published on Dec 29, 2025

Performance of Ghanaian Players Abroad wrap-up: Semenyo scores again as Kudus, Kamaldeen Impress – Ghana Latest Football News, Live Scores, Results

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GHANAsoccernet.com reporter Herbert Boakye Yiadom brings you a comprehensive report on the weekend performance of Ghanaian players abroad in their respective leagues worldwide.

The details below capture the minutes and the players’ performances over the weekend.

 

ENGLAND

In the Premier League, Antoine Semenyo scored his ninth goal of the campaign in Bournemouth’s 4-1 loss to Brentford on Saturday

Mohammed Kudus played 85 minutes for Tottenham in their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace

In the Championship, Kwame Poku saw 19 minutes of action for QPR in their 1-1 draw against Portsmouth

Ghanaian duo Jordan Ayew and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku were involved in Leicester City’s 2-1 defeat at home to Watford

In League One, Andy Yiadom and Yaw Abrefa were involved in Reading’s 4-1 win over Plymouth on Boxing Day

In League Two, Albert Adomah saw 18 minutes of action for Walsall in their 1-0 win over Crewe

 

ITALY

In the Serie A, Kamaldeen Sulemana saw 32 minutes of action for Atalanta in their 1-0 loss to Inter Milan

In the Serie B, Alfred Duncan played 83 minutes for Venezia in their 1-0 win over Entella

 

BELGIUM

In the Jupiler Pro League, Jerry Afriyie saw 90 minutes of action for RAA La Louviere against Leuven, which ended in a draw

Lawrence Agyekum saw 45 minutes of action for Cercle Brugge in their 1-1 draw against Royale Union SG

 

 

PORTUGAL

Sabit Abdulai registered an assist for Estoril in their 4-1 loss to Alverca

 

 

 

Edem warns youth against drug abuse at 9th Eledzi Health Walk

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Award-winning Ghanaian rapper and entertainer Denning Edem Hotor, popularly known as Ayigbey Edem, has cautioned young people against drug abuse, describing it as a destructive habit capable of ruining lives, families and communities.

He delivered the message at the 9th edition of the Eledzi Health Walk, which drew scores of participants onto the streets in a collective display of wellness advocacy, unity and social responsibility.

Addressing the gathering, Edem stressed that the impact of drug abuse extends far beyond the individual user, noting that its consequences often leave lasting scars on families and society at large.

He urged young people to stay away from drugs and encouraged those already struggling with substance use to seek help.

He warned that drug abuse threatens the future of the youth and undermines the stability of their immediate environment, calling for a collective effort to confront the growing challenge.

The Chief Executive Officer of Eledzi Empire, Malvin Doe Williams, popularly known as Endo, also outlined the broader vision behind the initiative.

He explained that while the health walk promotes physical fitness and social cohesion, organisers are working towards transforming it into a major lifestyle and entertainment brand.

According to him, the long-term goal is to grow the Eledzi Health Walk into a large-scale event that blends health advocacy, music, culture and recreation, comparable to a major outdoor lifestyle festival.

He appealed to media organisations, corporate bodies and individuals to partner with the initiative to help expand its reach and impact.

Established as a community-driven programme, the Eledzi Health Walk was created to promote healthy living, physical activity and social unity.

Over the years, it has evolved from a modest community exercise into a widely anticipated annual event, attracting entertainment personalities, health advocates and members of the public.

Now in its ninth edition, the initiative continues to champion wellness, youth empowerment and positive lifestyle choices, while steadily positioning itself as a dynamic platform that fuses health advocacy with entertainment and community engagement.

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.

Veteran filmmaker, Don Pedro Obaseki, gives an account of how he was harrased and str!pped n@ked by irate youths for allegedly speaking against the Oba of Benin

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Veteran filmmaker, Don Pedro Obaseki, gives an account of how he was harrased and str!pped n@ked by irate youths for allegedly speaking against the Oba of Benin

Veteran filmmaker, Don Pedro Obaseki, has given an account of how he was harassed and str!pped n@ked by irate youths for allegedly speaking against the Oba of Benin.

Speaking in an interview with AIT, Obaseki said the thugs accosted him while playing football with some people when some assailants accosted him, claiming they were sent by the palace of the Oba of Benin to bring him to appear before the monarch for disrespecting the crown. He said he was dragged through different roads, str!pped nak€d and then taken to the palace where some chiefs spoke to the assailants. He mentioned that he was then taken to the police station and was released following a directive from the state Commissioner of Police.

Don Pedro said the countenance of the palace chiefs showed the palace never ordered the attack.

He said the attackers mentioned that his offence was a  comment he made in London recently where he said ‘’May Edo people live long and prosper” instead of saying ‘’May the Oba live long and prosper.

He further stated that he feels distraught and traumatized by the incident.

Watch the video of him speaking and also a video from the speech he made in London below… 

Algeria through, Sudan surprise, Mozambique make history

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  • Algeria defeat Burkina Faso to book their place in the knockout stages
  • Sudan secure a vital win over Equatorial Guinea in a thrilling encounter
  • Mozambique edge Gabon 3–2, claiming their first-ever victory at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations finals after six appearances
  • Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire play to a draw in Marrakech

Cameroon and defending champions Côte d’Ivoire shared the spoils in a pulsating 1–1 draw in their second Group F fixture at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025. At the end of 90 minutes, neither side could find a decisive edge in a gripping encounter in Marrakesh.

Junior Tchamadeu’s deflected effort midway through the second half cancelled out a moment of brilliance from Amad Diallo, whose stunning opener had put the Ivorians ahead in a contest rich in quality, intensity and goal-mouth action.

The opening exchanges were tight and tactical, with both sides showing caution. Cameroon came close to breaking the deadlock after 20 minutes when Christian Kofane rose highest to meet a cross from the left, only to see his header crash against the crossbar.

Côte d’Ivoire believed they had gone into the break infront when captain Franck Kessié volleyed home from close range, but celebrations were cut short as the goal was ruled out for offside against Vakoun Issouf Bayo’s assist in the build-up.

The match burst into life after the restart. End-to-end football defined the opening minutes of the second half, before Diallo produced a moment of magic to open the scoring. 

The Manchester United forward collected the ball on the right, cut inside onto his favoured left foot and curled a sublime effort beyond the outstretched dive of goalkeeper Devis Epassy.

Cameroon responded swiftly. Just five minutes later, Tchamadeu struck from inside the box, his effort taking a wicked deflection off Ghislain Konan to wrong-foot the goalkeeper and restore parity for the Indomitable Lions.

With the scores level, both teams pushed in search of a winner. Bryan Mbeumo was well marshalled by the Ivorian defence, his closest attempt coming from a free-kick that narrowly missed the target from the edge of the area. 

Despite late pressure at both ends, neither side could force a breakthrough.

The draw leaves both Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire level on four points, with identical goals scored and conceded. 

Attention now turns to the final round of decisive group matches on New Year’s Eve, with Cameroon travelling back to Agadir to face Mozambique, while the defending champions remain in Marrakesh to take on already eliminated Gabon.

 

 

Algeria 1–0 Burkina Faso

Goal: Riyad Mahrez 23’ (pen)

Captain Riyad Mahrez scored the lone goal, a priceless strike from the penalty spot that secured three points for Algeria and confirmed their qualification to the Round of 16 at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025.

The Algerians firmed up their place top of Group E as they moved to six points after back-to-back wins. Burkina Faso remain second with three points, level with Sudan who earlier on beat Equatorial Guinea 1-0.

It was a tough and physically demanding duel, and the tempo cost Algeria an early change, Juan Hadjam, forced off injured and replaced by striker Baghdad Bounedjah after just 13 minutes, following a heavy challenge from Gustavo Sangaré.

The physicality of the game ultimately cost Burkina Faso after Rayan Aït-Nouri was fouled inside the box by Ismahila Ouedraogo in the 23rd minute, the referee pointing to the spot. Skipper Mahrez stepped up and made no mistake with a calm conversion to give Les Fennecs an early lead.

Algeria could have ended the half with a two-goal cushion, but Mohamed Amoura saw his shot from close range off a Mahrez assist saved by the keeper.

In the second half, Vladimir Petković’s men maintained the same rhythm, creating several chances, but were unable to convert them. Ibrahim Maza and Aït-Nouri both had clear opportunities to score, but were thwarted by the Burkinabe keeper Kouakou Koffi.

Burkina Faso also had chances of their own, the closest being a curler from the colorful substitute Georgi Minoungou. The effort went inches over the bar. Despite more efforts to battle for an equalizer, Algeria defended with discipline.

Algeria will now take on already eliminated Equatorial Guinea in their final group match, while Burkina Faso will battle with Sudan in a high-billed clash that will determine who gets the second automatic ticket to the knockout phase.

The two matches will be played on new Year’s eve.

Reactions

MOM – Ibrahim Maza (Algeria)

“Today was because of the team. I think everyone did well and the most important thing was to win the game. The goal was for us to qualify and not really individual awards. We are now officially qualified and happy with the work we put in”

“We knew it would be tough because they are tough in the duels, but we also needed to be strong in duels and I think we did quite well in matching them”

Brama Traore – Burkina Faso Coach

“We wanted to win this match. Laying against Algeria will always be difficult but we really gave it our all. Our tactical approach was based on all the analysis we had made. We had to close them off because we know how good they are but I think our strategy was not bad at all. They were awarded a penalty which completely changed the complexion of the game but be that as it may, we really gave them a good run. 

Vladimir Petkovic – Algeria Coach
“As a first, it has been a really hard match with two strong teams who fought for 90 minutes for everything on the pitch. We were slightly better in taking advantage of taking the opportunity we got. I think Burkina Faso will be successful if they continue playing the way they did tonight. Congratulations to my team. Despite having lacked a bit of in the closing matches, we continued working hard and secured the victory and qualification.

 

Equatorial Guinea 0-1 Sudan

 Saúl Basilio Coco-Bassey Oubiña   74′  (OG)

Sudan have secured a 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea in a freezing 14° evening in Casablanca to blow group E wide open in the TotalEnergies AFCON. 

The match remained on a knife-edge until the 74th minute, when a moment of pure chaos in the Equatorial Guinea box changed everything.

A stinging Sudanese cross forced center-back Saul Coco into a desperate clearance, only for the ball to fly into the back of his own net. That single goal was enough to spark wild celebrations and hand Sudan their first tournament win in over a decade.

Following a heavy defeat in their opening match, Sudan knew they were playing for survival. Under intense pressure from a technical Equatorial Guinea side, the Sudanese backline refused to buckle. Goalkeeper Monged Abuzaid stood like a wall, orchestrating a defense that absorbed wave after wave of attack before striking on the counter.

This result blows Group E wide open. Sudan has officially moved level on points with the group leaders, turning their final match into a “win-and-you’re-in” scenario.

For the players, this wasn’t just about three points. With Sudan facing immense challenges at home, the team has become a symbol of defiance. This victory—their first at the AFCON finals since 2012—offers a rare moment of pride and joy for millions of fans watching from afar.

Sudan now heads into their final group clash against Burkina Faso on New Year’s Eve with everything to play for. If they can replicate this defensive masterclass, a place in the Round of 16 is within their grasp.

Reactions

Mohamed Mamoun Eisa (Sudan) – TotalEnergies Man of the Match

“It’s a very good thing that we picked up all three points against Equatorial Guinea.  We feel great after this win and we are looking to achieve the best possible results in future. Our players fought for the full 90 minutes to secure the victory.”

Juan Micha – Head coach of Equatorial Guinea

“We played to win against Sudan and it was a difficult match. We created chances to score but did not take them. In the end, we accept what happened and congratulate the Sudanese team, who played well and won. I do not rely on the fans to decide our line-up; I choose it according to my own options. Our team played better than the opponent in the first half. In the second half, we attacked, and sometimes you create chances but do not score, then you concede. That is what happened, and it is normal.”

James Kwesi Appiah – Head coach of Sudan

“I am happy with the win, but our ambition is to win the title, not just to achieve a single victory. We have experienced players and their performance was strong. We faced some difficulties, but we always try to show good quality in our matches to achieve victories. I thank everyone who supported us in this match, especially the fans.
When you take part in any tournament, the main ambition is to get through the group stage and go as far as possible. We achieved what mattered most, and we are mindful of these objectives of reaching the furthest stage possible. We are not here to just participate.”

 

Gabon 2-3 Mozambique


Goalscorers:
P. E. Aubameyang 45+5, A. Moussounda 76e / F. Bangal 32e, G.Catama 42e (P), D. Callila

The Mambas, who had previously gone 16 matches without a win on the continental stage, finally broke their drought in a clinical display at the Stade Adrar.

The match burst into life late in the first half when Faizal Bangal opened the scoring in the 37th minute, heading home a superb cross from Geny Catamo. Just five minutes later, Mozambique doubled their lead after Dominguês was fouled in the penalty area by Bruno Ecuele Manga.

Catamo stepped up to coolly convert the penalty, sending the ball into the bottom left corner. 

Gabon managed to find a lifeline deep into first-half stoppage time through Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.The veteran striker pounced on a rebound after Didier Ndong’s initial effort was parried, cementing his status as one of the oldest goalscorers in the history of the AFCON finals.

The momentum shifted back to Mozambique shortly after the break. In the 52nd minute, Diogo Calila rose highest in the center of the box to meet a cross from Witi, powering a header into the roof of the net to restore the two-goal cushion. 

Gabon responded with a series of tactical changes, introducing Alex Moucketou-Moussounda and Royce Openda to bolster their attack.

The pressure from the Panthers eventually paid off in the 86th minute when Moucketou-Moussounda scored from close range following a corner, setting up a frantic finale.

Despite late attempts from Mario Lemina and Jacques Ekomié, Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan Siluane remained resolute, producing several crucial saves to protect the lead.

The final whistle confirmed a landmark achievement for Mozambique, ending nearly four decades of waiting for a win at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Post-match reaction

Geny Catamo – TotalEnergies Men of the Match – Mozambique: “I am very proud to represent Mozambique and to have made my contribution to Mozambique’s first-ever victory at the Africa Cup of Nations. We are proud of this win.

I hope this victory will cause us to keep working and bring more wins to our country. I ask the people to continue supporting us. We can go far, and our mindset is to keep pushing on in this tournament.”

State Owned Enterprises Exceed Dividend Targets by Forty Six Percent

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State Owned Enterprises Exceed Dividend Targets by Forty Six Percent
State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs)

Ghana’s State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) are on track to deliver dividends significantly above projections for 2025, marking a potential shift in performance for entities long criticized for persistent losses and fiscal drains on the national treasury.

According to data from the 2026 Budget Statement analyzed by The High Street Journal, government collected GH¢1.35 billion in SOE dividends by the end of September 2025, already exceeding the full year target of GH¢932 million by forty six percent. With three months remaining in the fiscal year, projections indicate total dividend collections could reach GH¢1.47 billion, representing one hundred fifty eight percent of the original budget.

The performance marks a dramatic departure from historical patterns where state enterprises required repeated government bailouts and contributed minimally to national revenues. For decades, most SOEs operated at losses while accumulating substantial debts that ultimately fell on taxpayers.

Government attributes the turnaround to its Reset Agenda, which emphasizes fiscal discipline and accountability across state institutions. President John Dramani Mahama warned early in his administration that SOEs must achieve efficiency and profitability or face consequences, signaling a departure from tolerating chronic underperformance.

The improved dividend performance provides government with additional fiscal flexibility at a time when revenue mobilization remains critical for financing infrastructure, education and healthcare without excessive borrowing. When state companies generate profits rather than losses, those funds flow into the Consolidated Fund for public services instead of adding to national debt.

Government projects that dividends and other non tax revenues will continue growing, potentially reaching over GH¢31 billion by 2029 according to medium term fiscal frameworks. However, observers question whether the 2025 performance represents a sustainable transformation or reflects temporary factors.

Historical data paints a sobering context for the current optimism. Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson revealed in August 2025 that only three SOEs paid dividends in 2024, contributing just GH¢28.7 million collectively. The 2024 State Ownership Report showed SOEs recorded a deepened net loss of GH¢9.67 billion compared with GH¢7.14 billion in 2023, despite revenue growth.

The electricity sector alone faces massive shortfalls, with accumulated debts requiring substantial government support. Entities like the Electricity Company of Ghana and COCOBOD have historically generated losses that undermine fiscal stability, according to policy analysts.

Critics including economic policy organizations have consistently called for comprehensive SOE reforms with clear restructuring plans, timelines and conditionality for continued fiscal support. They argue that without addressing fundamental governance weaknesses, improved performance may prove fleeting.

The question facing policymakers and citizens is whether recent gains reflect permanent cultural and operational changes within state enterprises, or whether they result from one time factors that may not persist beyond 2025. Government insists the Reset Agenda prioritizes sustained transformation of SOEs from perennial loss makers into productive contributors to national development.

Transparency advocates emphasize the importance of publishing detailed SOE performance data, including which specific entities contributed to the dividend windfall and what operational improvements drove profitability. Such disclosure would help distinguish between genuine reform success and accounting adjustments or asset sales that generate temporary revenue without improving underlying operations.

As Ghana seeks to maintain macroeconomic stability under its International Monetary Fund supported programme, consistent SOE profitability could significantly ease fiscal pressures and reduce borrowing requirements. The coming years will reveal whether 2025 marks the beginning of a new era for state enterprises or merely an outlier in a long history of disappointing performance.

Regard peace greatest gift from God – Bishop Ayivor tells Ghanaians

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Bishop Ayivor preaching the sermon to the congregation

The Volta Regional Head of the Action Chapel International, Bishop Godwin Prince Ayivor has called on Ghanaians to use the Christmas festive period to commit leaders of the country into the hands of God for them to be more committed to national development.

He stressed that it was the responsibility of Christians to pray for the country at all times to ensure growth.

Bishop Ayivor said the Christmas festivities should be used by Ghanaians to reflect on their lives , and resolve to improve on their lives, particularly their relationship with God.

Speaking in a sermon last Sunday at the Action Chapel International Power Cathedral in Ho to mark Christmas, Bishop Ayivor stressed that God was prepared to continue to direct the affairs of the country.

He also asked Christians and other religious leaders to constantly commit Ghana into the hands of God to promote development of the country.

Bishop Ayivor said the peace being enjoyed in the country should be regarded by Ghanaians as the greatest gift of God, and should not be taken for granted.

He urged Ghanaians to protect the peaceful atmosphere prevailing in the country, and at all times gave thank to God in recognition of his love and protection of Ghana over the years.

He said ” nations across the world looked for peace, which eluded many of them but Ghana was blessed to live peacefully among nations”, he stressed.

The Resident Pastor of the Ho Action Chapel International Power Cathedral, the Reverend Chris Majesty was hopeful that the year 2026 would be more fruitful than the past year, and urged Ghanaians to have faith in God and work hard.

FROM SAMUEL AGBEWODE, HO

China issues draft rules to regulate AI with human-like interaction

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China’s cyber regulator on Saturday issued draft rules for public comment that would tighten oversight of artificial intelligence services designed to simulate human personalities and engage users in emotional interaction.

The move underscores Beijing’s effort to shape the rapid rollout of consumer-facing AI by strengthening safety and ethical requirements.

The proposed rules would apply to AI products and services offered to the public in China that present simulated human personality traits, thinking patterns and communication styles, and interact with users emotionally through text, images, audio, video or other means.

The draft lays out a regulatory approach that would require providers to warn users against excessive use and to intervene when users show signs of addiction.

Under the proposal, service providers would be required to assume safety responsibilities throughout the product lifecycle and establish systems for algorithm review, data security and personal information protection.

The draft also targets potential psychological risks. Providers would be expected to identify user states and assess users’ emotions and their level of dependence on the service. If users are found to exhibit extreme emotions or addictive behaviour, providers should take necessary measures to intervene, it said.

The measures set content and conduct red lines, stating that services must not generate content that endangers national security, spreads rumours or promotes violence or obscenity.

Source: Reuters

Ghana’s Evans Kyere-Mensah nominated to World Agriculture Forum Council

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Ghanaian agriculture expert Evans Kyere-Mensah has been nominated to serve on the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) Council, a global body positioning itself as a platform to shape the future of agriculture worldwide.

The nomination, dated December 3, 2025, was communicated in a letter signed by Michelle Dennis, Director of Communications of the World Agriculture Forum, following a recommendation by Dr MJ Khan, Special Advisor to the WAF Board.

“After internal deliberations, your name has been approved for the Council,” the letter stated, highlighting confidence in Mr Mensah’s expertise and leadership within the global food and agriculture space.

The World Agriculture Forum is being established as an international platform, similar in outlook to the World Economic Forum, with a focus on advancing agricultural development, food and nutrition security, sustainable farming practices, technology, trade and policy coordination.

According to the Forum, the initiative comes at a critical time, as the global agricultural sector faces mounting challenges from climate change, food insecurity and shifting global trade dynamics.

“The agricultural sector is paramount to global food security, economic stability and environmental sustainability,” the letter noted, stressing the need for a dedicated body to facilitate dialogue and cooperation among policymakers, innovators, business leaders and global institutions.

As a Council member, Mr Kyere-Mensah is expected to contribute to shaping global policy discussions and strategic direction for agriculture.

The Forum also disclosed that one-third of its board members will be drawn from the Council, ensuring what it describes as a diverse and representative leadership structure.

The WAF plans to host an annual global summit, bringing together stakeholders to set the agenda for global agriculture, encourage agro-trade and technology exchange, and promote investment in sustainable and resilient food systems.

Mr Kyere-Mensah’s nomination is being viewed as a significant recognition of Ghana’s growing voice in international agricultural policy discussions, particularly as the country continues to prioritise food security, agribusiness development and climate-smart agriculture.

The World Agriculture Forum, headquartered in the Netherlands, says it looks forward to welcoming Mr Mensah to the Council, noting that his participation would “provide an unparalleled opportunity to influence agricultural initiatives on a global scale.”

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.

2025 has not been a good year

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Eugene Boakye Antwi is a former MP for Subin Eugene Boakye Antwi is a former MP for Subin

A former Member of Parliament for Subin, Eugene Boakye Antwi, has described 2025 as a challenging year, especially as a politician of the opposition New patriotic Party (NPP).

Speaking in a video shared on social media on December 28,2025, Boakye Antwi explained that the year has been difficult following the change of government and the time needed for the new government to put its appointees in place, including ministers, heads of agencies, and MMDCEs.

Ayariga leads MPs to pay courtesy call on Bawku Naba ahead of Samanpiid Festival

“It’s been a not-so-good year because one, there was a change of government. The government had to put its team in place to work. The ministers, the agency heads, the MMDCS, the ambassadors, I mean, we are waiting to see,” he stated.

Based on his experience as a former deputy Minister, he noted that it will be unfair to judge any government within its first or second year of office.

He added that a clearer direction of the current government would be known by this time next year.

“I’ve just told them earlier that it will be unfair to assess any government. I’ve been a member of the executive before as a deputy minister from 2017 to 2021. And it wouldn’t be fair to assess any government within its first year or even the second year.

“I would say next year, around this time, will give us a better hang of what, where the government intends to take the country,” he said.

Watch Dr Ato Forson’s heroic welcome in his constituency

Boakye Antwi noted that the country still depends on support from the IMF, which, according to him, limits the resources available to the government, stating, ” But as it stands, we are we are IMF economy. There isn’t much in the system for the government to work on or to work with.”

He acknowledged some positive indicators, such as the stabilization of the dollar but described these gains as “artificial, stressing that they are not driven by clear policy.

“The dollar is stable, which is good. Inflation is under control. But it’s all because these are, these are all artificial stuff because there’s no policy driving it, there’s no policy behind it, if you know what I mean,”

Boakye Antwi, however, praised the government for stabilizing the cedi, adding that it has helped importers.

“The government has been smart to find a way, right, to stabilize the dollar. It’s allowing the good people of this country to bring in imports, you know, with a very stable dollar. It helps them to plan. But it all remains to be seen sometime next year, if indeed there is some kind of master plan that is being used by this government to hold the city, to hold inflation, and what have you.”

Regardless of the commendation, he raised concerns about the billions of cedis that the government owes contractors and stakeholders, saying, ” And you know, contractors are owed, left, right, and center.”

He cautioned that once these arrears are paid, the true strength of the economy and the stability of the cedi will be tested.

“Inflation is good, it’s very low, and all the rest of it. But I keep saying the government owes billions, billions to contractors, to stakeholders. And once these monies are outstanding, have not been fully paid, you don’t know, we can’t really tell the shift of the economy.

“But once it’s paid into a system, you’ll see movements here and there. I think we will then see if the dollar is really stable or is going to go up again against the dollar. But as it stands, you know, so far I would say so good,” he added.

Watch video below

RAD/AM

Christmas Festivities: Avenor traders, buyers speak on livestock sales

Christmas Festivities: Avenor traders, buyers speak on livestock sales

Wherever we go, our polling station executives are yearning for Dr Bawumia – NPP coordinators

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Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia continues to enjoy ringing endorsements from NPP delegates as he embarks on his nationwide campaign.

Electoral area coordinators, who lead clusters of polling stations within constituencies, have been endorsing the candidature of Dr Bawumia across the country, and on Saturday, 27 December, when he toured four constituencies in Accra, the situation remained unchanged.

At Korle Klottey, Odododiodioo, Ablekuma Central, and Ablekuma West, the overwhelming majority of electoral area coordinators declared their confidence in Dr Bawumia to be retained as the Flagbearer of the NPP for the 2028 elections.

Odododiodioo

In the central business district of the capital, delegates gave Dr Bawumia a rousing welcome, before 19 out of 21 electoral area coordinators publicly endorsed the former Vice President.

“We supported Dr Bawumia in 2023, and for us, nothing has changed because we believe in his leadership,” a spokesperson for the coordinators said.

“We are at the base of the party, and whenever we are within the constituency, the polling station executives tell us that it is Dr Bawumia they want.”

“The polling station executives are aware of what is happening, and they are concerned about the utterances and motives of some individuals who seek to destroy the party for selfish interests. They will not allow that to happen, hence their firm support for Dr Bawumia, which we are also endorsing.”

“We act based on the will of our colleagues, the polling station executives, and we can say that within our respective polling stations, the executives are calling for Dr Bawumia because of his good character — a humble and peaceful man.”

Ablekuma Central

In Ablekuma Central, 18 out of 21 electoral area coordinators boldly declared their support for Dr Bawumia.

“There are 21 electoral area coordinators here in Ablekuma Central, and out of that number, 18 of us are present today, clearly in support of Dr Bawumia,” the coordinators said.

“We have been mandated by our polling station executives to declare support for you because, from their analysis, they believe you are the best among the rest to deliver victory for the NPP.”

“We are convinced, and together with other coordinators in the Greater Accra Region, backed by the strength of our polling station executives, we have been working for Dr Bawumia and will continue to do so until victory is achieved.”

“The success of our party is our ultimate interest, and we believe it is Dr Bawumia who can lead us to victory; hence our support for him.”

Ablekuma West

In Ablekuma West, where there are 16 electoral areas, 12 coordinators stepped forward to endorse Dr Bawumia.

Like the other constituencies, they acknowledged the strong backing of their polling station executives for Dr Bawumia.

The majority of other stakeholders in the constituency, including former executives, members of the council of elders, and current executives, also stepped forward to publicly declare their support for the former Vice President.

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.

Ghana’s Kyere Mensah nominated to World Agriculture Forum Council

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Ghanaian agriculture expert Kyere Mensah has been nominated to serve on the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) Council, a global body positioning itself as a platform to shape the future of agriculture worldwide.

The nomination, dated December 3, 2025, was communicated in a letter signed by Michelle Dennis, Director of Communications of the World Agriculture Forum, following a recommendation by Dr MJ Khan, Special Advisor to the WAF Board.

“After internal deliberations, your name has been approved for the Council,” the letter stated, highlighting confidence in Mr Mensah’s expertise and leadership within the global food and agriculture space.

The World Agriculture Forum is being established as an international platform, similar in outlook to the World Economic Forum, with a focus on advancing agricultural development, food and nutrition security, sustainable farming practices, technology, trade and policy coordination.

According to the Forum, the initiative comes at a critical time, as the global agricultural sector faces mounting challenges from climate change, food insecurity and shifting global trade dynamics.

“The agricultural sector is paramount to global food security, economic stability and environmental sustainability,” the letter noted, stressing the need for a dedicated body to facilitate dialogue and cooperation among policymakers, innovators, business leaders and global institutions.

As a Council member, Mr Mensah is expected to contribute to shaping global policy discussions and strategic direction for agriculture.

The Forum also disclosed that one-third of its board members will be drawn from the Council, ensuring what it describes as a diverse and representative leadership structure.

The WAF plans to host an annual global summit, bringing together stakeholders to set the agenda for global agriculture, encourage agro-trade and technology exchange, and promote investment in sustainable and resilient food systems.

Mr Mensah’s nomination is being viewed as a significant recognition of Ghana’s growing voice in international agricultural policy discussions, particularly as the country continues to prioritise food security, agribusiness development and climate-smart agriculture.

The World Agriculture Forum, headquartered in the Netherlands, says it looks forward to welcoming Mr Mensah to the Council, noting that his participation would “provide an unparalleled opportunity to influence agricultural initiatives on a global scale.”

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.

Jota’s widow expresses gratitude to Liverpool fans for outpouring of love

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Jota’s wife was at Anfield to thank Liverpool Jota’s wife was at Anfield to thank Liverpool

The widow of footballer Diogo Jota has thanked Liverpool fans for their “love” in “this incredibly difficult time” after he died in a car crash.

Rute Cardoso posted a message on Instagram after two of the couple’s three children led tributes before Liverpool’s game against Wolves.

His sons Dinis and Duarte joined the matchday mascots on the Anfield pitch before the Premier League game on Saturday. Jota played for both clubs.

The Portugal forward, 28, was killed in a car crash in Spain in July, alongside his 25-year-old brother Andre Silva.

His Lamborghini suffered a tyre blow-out, crashing and catching fire in Cernadilla in the Zamora province of Spain.

His widow said in an Instagram message: “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect and support shown during this incredibly difficult time.

“Your messages and gestures have meant more than words can express.”

Jota’s sons led the Liverpool team out of the tunnel before Saturday’s Premier League game, and walked out ahead of captain Virgil van Dijk.

A banner which read: “Diogo Jota, forever in our hearts” was held aloft in the Kop stand before kick-off.

Jota joined Wolves on an initial season-long loan deal from Atletico Madrid in 2017 and went on to score 44 goals in 131 appearances.

He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool, helping them win the FA Cup and EFL Cup in 2022 and the Premier League title last season.

The Merseyside club retired Jota’s number 20 shirt following his death.

State Owned Enterprises Exceed Dividend Targets by Forty Six Percent

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State Owned Enterprises Exceed Dividend Targets by Forty Six Percent
State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs)

Ghana’s State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) are on track to deliver dividends significantly above projections for 2025, marking a potential shift in performance for entities long criticized for persistent losses and fiscal drains on the national treasury.

According to data from the 2026 Budget Statement analyzed by The High Street Journal, government collected GH¢1.35 billion in SOE dividends by the end of September 2025, already exceeding the full year target of GH¢932 million by forty six percent. With three months remaining in the fiscal year, projections indicate total dividend collections could reach GH¢1.47 billion, representing one hundred fifty eight percent of the original budget.

The performance marks a dramatic departure from historical patterns where state enterprises required repeated government bailouts and contributed minimally to national revenues. For decades, most SOEs operated at losses while accumulating substantial debts that ultimately fell on taxpayers.

Government attributes the turnaround to its Reset Agenda, which emphasizes fiscal discipline and accountability across state institutions. President John Dramani Mahama warned early in his administration that SOEs must achieve efficiency and profitability or face consequences, signaling a departure from tolerating chronic underperformance.

The improved dividend performance provides government with additional fiscal flexibility at a time when revenue mobilization remains critical for financing infrastructure, education and healthcare without excessive borrowing. When state companies generate profits rather than losses, those funds flow into the Consolidated Fund for public services instead of adding to national debt.

Government projects that dividends and other non tax revenues will continue growing, potentially reaching over GH¢31 billion by 2029 according to medium term fiscal frameworks. However, observers question whether the 2025 performance represents a sustainable transformation or reflects temporary factors.

Historical data paints a sobering context for the current optimism. Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson revealed in August 2025 that only three SOEs paid dividends in 2024, contributing just GH¢28.7 million collectively. The 2024 State Ownership Report showed SOEs recorded a deepened net loss of GH¢9.67 billion compared with GH¢7.14 billion in 2023, despite revenue growth.

The electricity sector alone faces massive shortfalls, with accumulated debts requiring substantial government support. Entities like the Electricity Company of Ghana and COCOBOD have historically generated losses that undermine fiscal stability, according to policy analysts.

Critics including economic policy organizations have consistently called for comprehensive SOE reforms with clear restructuring plans, timelines and conditionality for continued fiscal support. They argue that without addressing fundamental governance weaknesses, improved performance may prove fleeting.

The question facing policymakers and citizens is whether recent gains reflect permanent cultural and operational changes within state enterprises, or whether they result from one time factors that may not persist beyond 2025. Government insists the Reset Agenda prioritizes sustained transformation of SOEs from perennial loss makers into productive contributors to national development.

Transparency advocates emphasize the importance of publishing detailed SOE performance data, including which specific entities contributed to the dividend windfall and what operational improvements drove profitability. Such disclosure would help distinguish between genuine reform success and accounting adjustments or asset sales that generate temporary revenue without improving underlying operations.

As Ghana seeks to maintain macroeconomic stability under its International Monetary Fund supported programme, consistent SOE profitability could significantly ease fiscal pressures and reduce borrowing requirements. The coming years will reveal whether 2025 marks the beginning of a new era for state enterprises or merely an outlier in a long history of disappointing performance.

Inter-House Maths and Science Quiz Competition held in Koforidua

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Dr Emmanuel Attah Kumah with contestants and quizmasters

The Dr Emmanuel Attah Kumah Amponsah, who is a Senior Lecturer and a head of Department of Accounting, Banking and Finance at the Ghana Communication Technology University, Accra, sponsored Maths and Science Quiz competition for basic and J.H.S. has been held in Koforidua in the Eastern Region.

The competition was aimed at promoting academic excellence, teamwork, and healthy competition among students in the fields of mathematics and science.

It was also to promote interest, assess knowledge, and encourage critical thinking in Math and Science among basic and JHS students.

The objective was to inspire the love for technical subjects and helping learners to identify challenges in the society and attempt providing solutions to them.

Common questions types used were multiple choice, true/false, short/long answers, matching, numerical/computaional and fill-in-the-blank-dropdowns.

Science-specific questions format used were Diagram/Image-Based, Concept Mapping, Experimental Design and Logic Puzzles.

Maths-specific questions format used were Problem Solving, Graphing, Estimation and Approximation and Logical Reasoning.

Topics covered include Math: Algebra (simplifying expressions, polynomials), Geometry (area, volume), Arithmetic (percentages, ratios), Proportions, Basic Trigonometry.
Science: Biology (photosynthesis, cell structure, human body), Chemistry (balancing equations, states of matter), Physics (light, sound), Earth Science (volcanoes, tsunamis).
Grand Finale Results.

After five rounds of questions and answers, the contest came to an end with the following standings: Quarshie House; First Position,
Nightingale House ; second Position,
Aggrey House, 3rd Position; and Eva House, -fourth Position.

The competition was a resounding success, with all participating students demonstrating a high level of knowledge and understanding in mathematics and science.

The event was a testament to the students’ hard work and dedication to their studies.

We congratulate Quarshie House on their victory and encourage all participants to continue striving for excellence in their academic pursuits.

Dr Attah Kumah Amponsah in his closing remarks said the event was a brilliant showcase of talent, critical thinking, and a shared passion for the wonders that mathematics and science bring to our world.

“We have all witnessed the power of inquiry and the excitement of discovery. The energy and intellect displayed by every participant are truly commendable, “ he stated.

Dr Atta Kumah expressed gratitude to the organizers and the planning committee for their meticulous effort and dedication and the teachers and mentors for their guidance and for nurturing the spirit of scientific inquiry and mathematical curiosity in their students as well as parents and supporters for encouraging their bright young minds.

“The skills you’ve honed here will be invaluable as you navigate your future, whether you choose to become the scientists, engineers, innovators, or leaders of tomorrow.”

There was acknowledgement by the Director of St. Mary’s Day Care and Preparatory School, Ms Miriam Ofosu Appin

She also expressed sincere gratitude to Dr Attah Kumah Amponsah for sponsoring the quiz competition, the administrator of the school, Mr Castro Agorbiaand, the headmaster Mr Paul Essilfie, all teachers and staff who worked tirelessly to make the event a success.

FROM TIMES REPORTER, KOFORIDUA

‘Wherever we go, our polling station executives are yearning for Bawumia’

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Delegates gave Dr Bawumia a rousing welcome Delegates gave Dr Bawumia a rousing welcome

Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, continues to enjoy ringing endorsements from NPP delegates as he embarks on his nationwide campaign.

Electoral area coordinators, who lead sets of polling stations within constituencies, have been endorsing the candidature of Dr Bawumia across the country.

On Saturday, December 27, when he toured four constituencies in Accra, the situation remained unchanged.

At Korle Klottey, Odododiodioo, Ablekuma Central and Ablekuma West, an overwhelming majority of electoral area coordinators declared their confidence in Dr Bawumia to be retained as the Flagbearer of the NPP for the 2028 elections.

Odododiodioo

In the central business district of the capital, delegates gave Dr Bawumia a rousing welcome, as 19 out of 21 electoral area coordinators publicly endorsed the former Vice President.

“We supported Dr Bawumia in 2023, and for us, nothing has changed because we believe in his leadership,” a spokesperson for the coordinators said.

“We are at the base of the party and wherever we have been within the constituency, the polling station executives are telling us that it is Dr Bawumia they want.”

“The polling station executives are aware of what is happening and they are concerned about the utterances and motives of some people who want to destroy this party because of their selfish interests.

They will not allow that to happen, hence their firm support for Dr Bawumia, which we are also endorsing.”

“We act based on the will of our colleagues, the polling station executives, and we can say that within our respective polling stations, the executives are calling for Dr Bawumia because of his good character, a humble and peaceful man.”

Ablekuma Central

In Ablekuma Central, 18 out of 21 electoral area coordinators boldly declared their support for Dr Bawumia.

“There are 21 electoral area coordinators here in Ablekuma Central, and out of that number, 18 of us are here, obviously in support of Dr Bawumia,” the coordinators said.

“We have been mandated by our polling station executives to declare support for you because, from their analysis, they see that you are the best among the rest to deliver victory for the NPP.”

“We are convinced, and together with other coordinators in the Greater Accra Region, backed by the strength of our polling station executives, we have been working for Dr Bawumia and will continue to work for him until victory is achieved.”

“The success of our party is our ultimate interest, and we believe it is Dr. Bawumia who can lead us to victory; hence our support for him.”

Ablekuma West

In Ablekuma West, where there are 16 electoral areas, 12 out of the 16 coordinators stepped forward to endorse Dr Bawumia.

Like the other constituencies, they also acknowledged the strong backing of their polling station executives for Dr Bawumia.

A majority of other stakeholders in the constituency, including former executives, the council of elders, and current executives, also stepped forward to publicly declare their support for the former Vice President.

Also, watch below Amnesty International’s ‘Protect the Protest’ documentary as the world marks International Human Rights Day 2025

The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana.

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2025 has not been a good year

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Eugene Boakye Antwi is a former MP for Subin Eugene Boakye Antwi is a former MP for Subin

A former Member of Parliament for Subin, Eugene Boakye Antwi, has described 2025 as a challenging year, especially as a politician of the opposition New patriotic Party (NPP).

Speaking in a video shared on social media on December 28,2025, Boakye Antwi explained that the year has been difficult following the change of government and the time needed for the new government to put its appointees in place, including ministers, heads of agencies, and MMDCEs.

Ayariga leads MPs to pay courtesy call on Bawku Naba ahead of Samanpiid Festival

“It’s been a not-so-good year because one, there was a change of government. The government had to put its team in place to work. The ministers, the agency heads, the MMDCS, the ambassadors, I mean, we are waiting to see,” he stated.

Based on his experience as a former deputy Minister, he noted that it will be unfair to judge any government within its first or second year of office.

He added that a clearer direction of the current government would be known by this time next year.

“I’ve just told them earlier that it will be unfair to assess any government. I’ve been a member of the executive before as a deputy minister from 2017 to 2021. And it wouldn’t be fair to assess any government within its first year or even the second year.

“I would say next year, around this time, will give us a better hang of what, where the government intends to take the country,” he said.

Watch Dr Ato Forson’s heroic welcome in his constituency

Boakye Antwi noted that the country still depends on support from the IMF, which, according to him, limits the resources available to the government, stating, ” But as it stands, we are we are IMF economy. There isn’t much in the system for the government to work on or to work with.”

He acknowledged some positive indicators, such as the stabilization of the dollar but described these gains as “artificial, stressing that they are not driven by clear policy.

“The dollar is stable, which is good. Inflation is under control. But it’s all because these are, these are all artificial stuff because there’s no policy driving it, there’s no policy behind it, if you know what I mean,”

Boakye Antwi, however, praised the government for stabilizing the cedi, adding that it has helped importers.

“The government has been smart to find a way, right, to stabilize the dollar. It’s allowing the good people of this country to bring in imports, you know, with a very stable dollar. It helps them to plan. But it all remains to be seen sometime next year, if indeed there is some kind of master plan that is being used by this government to hold the city, to hold inflation, and what have you.”

Regardless of the commendation, he raised concerns about the billions of cedis that the government owes contractors and stakeholders, saying, ” And you know, contractors are owed, left, right, and center.”

He cautioned that once these arrears are paid, the true strength of the economy and the stability of the cedi will be tested.

“Inflation is good, it’s very low, and all the rest of it. But I keep saying the government owes billions, billions to contractors, to stakeholders. And once these monies are outstanding, have not been fully paid, you don’t know, we can’t really tell the shift of the economy.

“But once it’s paid into a system, you’ll see movements here and there. I think we will then see if the dollar is really stable or is going to go up again against the dollar. But as it stands, you know, so far I would say so good,” he added.

Watch video below

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Christmas Festivities: Avenor traders, buyers speak on livestock sales

Christmas Festivities: Avenor traders, buyers speak on livestock sales

‘Wherever we go, our polling station executives are yearning for Bawumia’

0

Delegates gave Dr Bawumia a rousing welcome Delegates gave Dr Bawumia a rousing welcome

Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, continues to enjoy ringing endorsements from NPP delegates as he embarks on his nationwide campaign.

Electoral area coordinators, who lead sets of polling stations within constituencies, have been endorsing the candidature of Dr Bawumia across the country.

On Saturday, December 27, when he toured four constituencies in Accra, the situation remained unchanged.

At Korle Klottey, Odododiodioo, Ablekuma Central and Ablekuma West, an overwhelming majority of electoral area coordinators declared their confidence in Dr Bawumia to be retained as the Flagbearer of the NPP for the 2028 elections.

Odododiodioo

In the central business district of the capital, delegates gave Dr Bawumia a rousing welcome, as 19 out of 21 electoral area coordinators publicly endorsed the former Vice President.

“We supported Dr Bawumia in 2023, and for us, nothing has changed because we believe in his leadership,” a spokesperson for the coordinators said.

“We are at the base of the party and wherever we have been within the constituency, the polling station executives are telling us that it is Dr Bawumia they want.”

“The polling station executives are aware of what is happening and they are concerned about the utterances and motives of some people who want to destroy this party because of their selfish interests.

They will not allow that to happen, hence their firm support for Dr Bawumia, which we are also endorsing.”

“We act based on the will of our colleagues, the polling station executives, and we can say that within our respective polling stations, the executives are calling for Dr Bawumia because of his good character, a humble and peaceful man.”

Ablekuma Central

In Ablekuma Central, 18 out of 21 electoral area coordinators boldly declared their support for Dr Bawumia.

“There are 21 electoral area coordinators here in Ablekuma Central, and out of that number, 18 of us are here, obviously in support of Dr Bawumia,” the coordinators said.

“We have been mandated by our polling station executives to declare support for you because, from their analysis, they see that you are the best among the rest to deliver victory for the NPP.”

“We are convinced, and together with other coordinators in the Greater Accra Region, backed by the strength of our polling station executives, we have been working for Dr Bawumia and will continue to work for him until victory is achieved.”

“The success of our party is our ultimate interest, and we believe it is Dr. Bawumia who can lead us to victory; hence our support for him.”

Ablekuma West

In Ablekuma West, where there are 16 electoral areas, 12 out of the 16 coordinators stepped forward to endorse Dr Bawumia.

Like the other constituencies, they also acknowledged the strong backing of their polling station executives for Dr Bawumia.

A majority of other stakeholders in the constituency, including former executives, the council of elders, and current executives, also stepped forward to publicly declare their support for the former Vice President.

Also, watch below Amnesty International’s ‘Protect the Protest’ documentary as the world marks International Human Rights Day 2025

The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana.

Who deserves to be honoured this year?


Nominate now 👉 https://ghanaweb.com/ghanaexcellenceawards/nominate

Watch highlights of Nigeria's 3-2 victory against Tunisia

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Video | Watch highlights of Nigeria’s 3-2 victory against Tunisia

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Peaceful voting underway in Central African Republic as 2025 general elections commence

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Approximately 2.4 million eligible voters are expected to cast their ballots to select a president Approximately 2.4 million eligible voters are expected to cast their ballots to select a president

Voting officially commenced on December 28, 2025, in the Central African Republic (CAR) as polls opened nationwide for the country’s general elections.

Approximately 2.4 million eligible voters are expected to cast their ballots to select a president, members of the National Assembly and local authority representatives.

Polls opened at 6:00 a.m. local time across 6,700 polling stations.

Early reports indicate that voting is proceeding in a calm and peaceful atmosphere, with no serious security incidents registered.

Significantly, voting is active and orderly even in remote regions and areas previously impacted by insecurity, such as the city of Bambari.

Seven candidates are contending for the office of the President.

The incumbent, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, is seeking re-election following his victories in 2016 and 2020.

He faces opposition from six other candidates, with former Prime Ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra regarded as his primary competitors.

Under the constitution, the presidential mandate is for a seven-year term. To win in the first round, a candidate must secure an absolute majority (50% plus one vote).

If no candidate achieves this threshold, a runoff election will be held between the top contenders.

Voters are simultaneously electing 140 deputies to the National Assembly, the nation’s unicameral parliament.

The parliamentary mandate is also set for a term of seven years.

The legislative field is competitive, with 685 candidates vying for seats.

The pool of candidates is comprised of nominees from over 40 political parties, as well as a significant number of independent candidates, who make up nearly half of the field.

Political observers are closely watching the performance of the Movement of United Hearts (MCU).

The party, which currently holds 61 seats following the 2020–2021 elections, is projected to remain a dominant force in the legislature.

Dry season triggers acute Water crisis in Northern communities

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Several communities across Northern Ghana are facing a worsening water crisis as the dry season sets in, forcing residents particularly women to endure long, sleepless nights in search of potable water.

With the rains ending nearly two months ago, streams, wells and seasonal dams that sustain rural households have dried up, while boreholes are recording critically low water tables.

As a result, humans and livestock are increasingly competing for the same limited water sources, heightening health and sanitation risks.

The situation is especially dire in the Chereponi District, where there is no access to piped water. Residents depend largely on boreholes and a widely used caterpillar dam, which has become unsafe due to runoff carrying dirt, waste and animal droppings directly into the water body.

Speaking to Channel One News, a resident warned of the consequences if urgent action is not taken.

“All the animals in the community are feeding from the same water and defecating in it for human use. As a result, about 80% of the lives of people in Chereponi will be affected if action is not taken on this incident,” the resident said.

The Assembly Member for Chereponi West, Yaw Nasamu described the situation as a major water and sanitation challenge confronting the district, appealing for immediate support while urging residents to help protect existing water sources.

“I am appealing to philanthropists, NGOs, civil society organisations and the government to come to our aid. The people of Chereponi are suffering as a community,” the Assembly Member stated.

In Wanchiki, conditions are even more severe. The chief and residents say access to water has deteriorated sharply in recent weeks, compelling the community to appeal for peace and urgent intervention to prevent further hardship during the dry season.

Elsewhere in the Northern Region, the Juo community continues to battle multiple development challenges, including the absence of mobile network coverage. Water access has also been a long-standing problem, as non-functional boreholes forced residents and livestock to share limited water sources.

However, there has been some relief. A benevolent organisation, Van De Ard Machine Factory, has intervened by providing a mechanised borehole to the community, significantly easing the burden on residents.

Women in the community, speaking to Channel One News, expressed excitement and gratitude, recounting the hardships they previously endured and noting that the new water facility will improve household sanitation, health and daily living.

A representative of the organisation said the gesture was motivated by the urgent need to support deprived communities during the dry season, when access to safe water becomes a daily struggle.

Emotional moment as Tiwa Savage breaks down on stage while performing ‘Somebody’s Son’

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Afrobeats singer Tiwa Savage had an emotional moment on stage while performing her hit song Somebody’s Son at the Taste the Culture Festival in Ghana.

In a video making rounds online, the award-winning artiste was seen struggling to hold back tears as she sang, briefly pausing to compose herself before continuing the performance.

This is no longer a promise – A Plus on Mahama’s Gomoa visit

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Gomoa Central MP Kwame A Plus has framed President John Dramani Mahama’s Christmas visit to the constituency as a powerful symbol of leadership, continuity and national renewal.

Describing the occasion as an honour, the MP said hosting the President and First Lady, Lordina Mahama, at Crown Forest during the holidays carried deep meaning for the people of Gomoa.

Agricultural cooperatives emerging as climate champions in rural Ghana

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In the Assin Central District of Ghana’s Central Region, cocoa farmers gather not just to discuss yields and prices, but to collectively chart survival strategies against a climate that no longer follows familiar patterns.

Under the shade of cocoa trees in Assin Fosu, members of a local farmers’ cooperative discuss rainfall forecasts, soil health, and how to safeguard their livelihoods from increasingly unpredictable weather.

“We cannot continue farming the same way,” says Samuel Torbi, a leader of the Assin Fosu Cocoa Farmers’ Cooperative, a group turning shared vulnerability into collective resilience.

Samuel owns a 17-acre cocoa farm bordering a forest reserve. In good years, his farm produces about 300 bags of cocoa, enough to support his household. After more than 20 years in cocoa production, he says farming has remained his economic backbone. Yet climate change now poses the greatest threat to that stability.

“You’re supposed to plant cocoa in March, but when the dry season extends unexpectedly, the young plants die,” he explains. “Climate change is now our biggest challenge in cocoa farming.”

Across Ghana, climate variability is rewriting the rules of farming. According to the Ghana Meteorological Agency, average temperatures have increased by about 1°C over the past 30 years, while rainfall has become increasingly erratic. The World Bank estimates that climate change could reduce Ghana’s agricultural productivity by up to 7% by 2050 if adaptation measures are not scaled up.

This poses a direct threat to smallholder farmers, who account for over 60% of Ghana’s agricultural workforce and produce nearly 80% of the country’s food, according to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA).

In regions such as the Upper East, Northern, Bono, Ahafo, and parts of the Central, prolonged dry spells, flash floods, and soil degradation are driving down yields, raising production costs, and deepening food insecurity.

Cocoa, Ghana’s leading agricultural export and a livelihood for over 800,000 farm families, is particularly vulnerable.

Cooperatives as engines of climate adaptation

Amid these challenges, agricultural cooperatives are emerging as a quiet but powerful force in Ghana’s climate response. Once viewed primarily as vehicles for market access and bargaining power, cooperatives are increasingly functioning as hubs for climate-smart agriculture, information sharing, and risk management.

Agricultural researchers note that farmer-based organisations are gaining relevance because they provide a structured platform for engagement with government agencies, research institutions, and development partners.

Dr Victor Owusu, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Geography Education, University of Education, Winneba, whose research focuses on agrarian food systems and livelihood resilience, describes climate change as a planning nightmare for farmers.

“The erratic nature of the weather makes agricultural planning extremely difficult,” he says. “This is where cooperatives become critical. While climate science informs policy, farmers also possess indigenous knowledge that has sustained their livelihoods for generations. Cooperatives create a space where scientific knowledge and local experience can work together.”

In Assin Fosu, change began with targeted training sessions supported by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), the Ghana Cocoa Biard (COCOBOD), and local NGOs. Farmers were introduced to climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices such as mulching, crop rotation, shade tree integration, improved seed selection, composting, and rainwater harvesting.

Abdul Rahman Ayiku Tetteh, the Pruning, Irrigation and Cocoa Management Systems Coordinator at the Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) of COCOBOD, describes cooperatives as essential allies in reaching farmers efficiently.

“Climate change is affecting production and wellbeing,” he explains. “We educate farmers on planting disease-resistant varieties, integrating shade trees, and protecting cocoa from direct sunlight. When cooperatives are involved, information spreads faster and adoption rates improve.”

CHED estimates that farms practicing recommended shade management and pruning techniques can improve productivity by 15–25%, even under climate stress.

The Assin Fosu cooperative has 72 active members, meeting monthly to review production data, welfare concerns, and business performance. Special farmer business schools provide hands-on training in climate-smart practices.

“We now understand that cutting down trees worsens climate stress on cocoa,” Mr. Torbi explains. “Shade trees improve soil moisture, regulate temperature, and protect yields.”

Beyond agronomy, the cooperative has introduced group savings schemes, bulk input purchases, and shared irrigation support, reducing individual costs by up to 20%, according to members.

“Before, I couldn’t afford fertiliser,” says Sala Iddrisu, a cocoa farmer and mother of two. “Now we buy together and support each other.”

Some members have also committed portions of their land to tree planting and carbon sequestration initiatives under REDD+ programmes, contributing to Ghana’s emission reduction targets while restoring degraded landscapes.

Policy shift toward bottom-up solutions

Experts say cooperatives are central to scaling climate adaptation across the country.

According to Dr Victor Owusu, for decades, agricultural governance in Ghana has largely followed a top-down model, limiting local participation in policy design and implementation.

“We’ve realised that the top-down approach towards dissemination of information, such as climate change, availability of subsidies for farmers, including fishers, there’s a big gap communication gap, most of the information or the intended materials do not get to the people who are supposed to be using this information and other materials for their work to benefit their welfare.

“So gradually, we are moving towards a bottom-up approach where government and other agencies are now recognizing the importance of empowering local cooperatives to also be actively involved in the management and governance of agriculture, food value chain,” he observed.

Ghana’s Updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the Climate Resilient and Green Economy Strategy explicitly recognise farmer-based organisations as key actors in adaptation and mitigation efforts.

However, challenges remain. Access to climate finance, long-term technical support, and research partnerships continues to constrain cooperative growth.

Dr Owusu says empowering farmer-based organisations and local cooperatives will get them more involved in the management of the food value chain, especially in taking interest in climate change and its ramifications on the local agriculture sector.

“The agriculture sector is directly under the mercy of climate change, because we talk about farming, they depend on the mercies of the weather; the rainfall and the temperature. When we talk about the fishing, it’s also the same.

“So information dissemination is very important, when we are talking about climate change and climate information, so that these farmers will be able to use this information for their planting season and other important information that will help them to sustain their various businesses,” he stated.

Back in Assin Fosu, farmers are preparing for the next planting season. They are testing cover crops to restore soil fertility, composting organic waste, and experimenting with drought-tolerant cocoa seedlings.

“We are no longer just surviving,” Mr Torbi says. “We are adapting and leading.”

As climate change tightens its grip on Ghana’s food systems, one lesson is becoming increasingly clear: resilience is not built solely through technology or central policies, but through empowered communities working collectively.

In that future, agricultural cooperatives are not just participants; they are climate champions, shaping sustainable pathways for rural Ghana.

This article is written as part of a collaborative project between JoyNews, CDKN Ghana, and the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability at the University of Ghana, with funding from the CLARE R41 Opportunities Fund

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.

ECG announces temporary difficulty in power purchase for MMS meters

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The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a technical challenge affecting the purchase of electricity credits for customers using MMS-compliant meters.

In a notice issued on Sunday, December 28, 2025, ECG said the challenge is disrupting the purchase of electricity credits through the ECG Mobile App, short codes, and third-party vendors.

According to the company, its technical team is working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

ECG apologised to customers for the inconvenience caused and assured them that efforts are underway to restore normal service.

Anyone assisting foreign nationals to acquire Ghanaian passports or Ghana Cards will not be spared – Sam George

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The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has issued a stern warning that security agencies will not spare anyone found assisting foreign nationals to acquire Ghanaian passports and Ghana Cards.

He stated that helping such individuals is a criminal offence and that the law would deal decisively with any Ghanaian involved, to serve as a deterrent.

55 Artisans Graduate as Obaapa Fatimah Amoadu Foundation Launches in Ekumfi

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Mankessim – In a bid to provide skill training for the youth, the Obaapa Fatimah Amoadu Foundation (OFAF) was officially launched, culminating in the graduation of 55 artisans from its maiden training programme.

Held under the theme “The Future Is Handmade,” the event at Mankessim in the Central Region on Saturday, December 27, 2025, highlighted the importance of craftsmanship, vocational education, and hands-on skills in promoting sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment.

The ceremony attracted a distinguished gathering of traditional authorities, political leaders, Christian clergy, and representatives of Islamic missions, reflecting broad-based support for skills development as a tool for community transformation.

Speaking at the event, the Founder of the Foundation and Deputy Managing Director of the Cocoa Processing Company (CPC), Fatimah Amoadu, recounted that OFAF was established in Accra about ten years ago but later relocated its operations to the Ekumfi Traditional Area to directly support the local community.

“This foundation started in Accra about ten years ago, but it was important to bring it home to Ekumfi to support my own people and help them build sustainable livelihoods,” she said.

A native of Ekumfi Immuna and Srafa, Amoadu explained that her decision to return home was driven by a desire to empower young people, particularly girls, through sustainable skills training rather than short-term support.

“Our focus has always been on teaching young girls how to fish rather than giving them fish,”she explained. “When you equip someone with a skill, you give them dignity, independence, and a future.”

She disclosed that 100 girls from Ekumfi were enrolled in an artisanal training programme four years ago, of whom 55 have now successfully graduated, while the remaining trainees are still undergoing instruction.

The trainees received instruction in hairdressing, fashion design, and baking, equipping them with employable skills for sustainable livelihoods. To further support them in launching their vocations, Amoadu presented the graduates with sewing machines, hair dryers, gas ovens, and other start-up items.

The Paramount Queen of the Ekumfi Traditional Area, Nana Benyiwa VI, commended Obaapa Fatimah Amoadu for her initiative and investment in human capital development.

“What our daughter has done is wonderful,”she said. “We ask God’s blessings upon her life so that whatever she touches will prosper.”

Nana Benyiwa VI urged the graduates to make good use of the opportunity. “To the graduates, what you have received is a great opportunity. Use it to work so that others will also benefit from you,” she advised.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Ekumfi Srafa and Sumankwahen of the Ekumfi Traditional Area, Nana Nyeiku VII, appealed to the foundation to consider including boys in future skills training programmes. “When you look at the beneficiaries, they are not fairly balanced,” Nana observed. “There’s no boy amongst them. I suggest boys must be considered in subsequent programmes.”

Representing the Central Regional Coordinator for the Apprenticeship Programme, the Deputy Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kojo Gyamfi, described the OFAF training initiative as being in line with the vision of a Mahama-led government, which seeks to train between one and five million youths in various skill sets nationwide.

“Youth unemployment can only be tackled when skills development is prioritised,” he emphasised. “Initiatives like this play a critical role in complementing government efforts.”

He underscored that the foundation’s activities align perfectly with the government’s vision to train youth with employable skills to ameliorate unemployment in Ghana.

Appealing for more such opportunities, Mr. Gyamfi urged well-meaning Ghanaians to emulate and replicate the efforts of Obaapa Fatimah Amoadu in their respective communities, noting that private initiatives remain crucial in complementing government empowerment programmes.

The launch and graduation ceremony marked a major milestone for the Obaapa Fatimah Amoadu Foundation, reinforcing the role of vocational skills and community-driven initiatives in tackling youth unemployment. With plans to expand its training programmes, the Foundation is poised to continue empowering more young people in Ekumfi and across the Central Region through practical skills development and entrepreneurship.

By Kwaku Afriyie

Tech Guru meetup ’25 ignites innovation; showcases the Future of African Tech

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The second edition of Tech Guru Meetup organised by Tech Hub Africa has been held in Accra. The event saw a convergence of Ghana’s digital minds, united by a shared vision of innovation, collaboration, and impact.

The meetup brought together students, seasoned professionals, startup founders, and investors, creating a vibrant space for high-value networking and real-time collaboration.

Attendees witnessed firsthand how ideas are exchanged, partnerships formed, and the future of African technology actively shaped.

A major highlight of the evening at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel was the Startup Pitch Competition Finale, where some of Ghana’s most promising startups demonstrated bold ideas and practical solutions with global potential. The pitches reaffirmed that the next wave of transformative technology is being built right here in Ghana.
The judging panel Bernard Mensah, Franklin Leonards,  Foster Oppong, and Pauline Arthur Abad brought deep industry expertise to the competition, offering critical insights and constructive feedback that added immense value to the participating startups.

At the end of the competition, three startups emerged as winners:

•Kronoz, an innovative events hub for ticketing took the first prize of $1000;

•Rushpay, a digital payments solution grabbed the second prize;

•SciResearch, a platform for decentralizing scientific research took the third prize.

The founder of Kronoz described the victory as a major boost for the company, providing both validation and momentum for future growth.

Speaking on the impact of the event, Doreen Awuku Agyeman, Co-Founder of Tech Hub Africa, expressed excitement about the quality of ideas presented and the strong networks formed. She also announced a new initiative, “Tech for All,” aimed at expanding access to technology and innovation across all regions of Ghana, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity in the tech space.

Organized under the theme “Meet. Network. Innovate. Empower.”, the Tech Guru Meetup ’25 formed the grand finale of a three-day tech showcase celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship. Through keynote panels, interactive sessions, and meaningful connections, the event reaffirmed its mission to empower Africa’s tech ecosystem by connecting innovators, nurturing talent, and showcasing excellence in technology, science, and engineering.

With a clear vision of positioning Africa as a global leader in the digital age, the Tech Guru Meetup ’25 has set a strong tone for the year ahead one defined by collaboration, opportunity, and a thriving, inclusive future for African technology.

Engineering Expert Applauds Mahama’s Big Push Initiative, Calls for Stronger Safety and Sustainability Measures

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A senior project engineering expert has commended the President of the Republic, His Excellency John Mahama, for the government’s bold and transformative Big Push Initiative, particularly its unprecedented investment in nationwide road and infrastructure development.

In a formal press statement dated December 26, 2025, Engr. Surv. Dr. Dr. Ebenezer Gyamera—Southern Sector Chairman of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Ghana and Senior Lecturer at the University of Cape Coast—described the initiative as a demonstration of visionary leadership with the potential to accelerate economic growth, enhance regional integration, create jobs, and improve access to essential social services across the country.

While applauding the scale and pace of ongoing road construction works, Dr. Gyamera underscored the need for proactive measures to address the social, environmental, and technical challenges associated with large‑scale infrastructure development. Such measures, he noted, are crucial for strengthening public safety, boosting public confidence, and ensuring long‑term sustainability.

He highlighted six key areas requiring urgent attention:

1. Dust Pollution and Public Health

Dr. Gyamera observed that extensive earthworks and pavement construction generate significant dust, especially in urban and peri‑urban communities. Prolonged exposure, he cautioned, poses serious respiratory health risks, disrupts businesses, and reduces overall quality of life. He recommended regular water spraying, strict enforcement of environmental management plans, and enhanced monitoring of contractor compliance.

2. Utility Lines and Services

Road construction, he noted, often interferes with underground and overhead utilities such as water pipelines, electricity lines, fiber‑optic cables, and sewer systems. He called for improved coordination with utility service providers prior to construction, supported by accurate utility mapping, to minimize service disruptions and avoid costly reworks.

3. Alternative Routes and Traffic Management

Construction activities frequently lead to congestion and extended travel times. Dr. Gyamera emphasized the need for clearly marked and well‑maintained alternative routes, effective traffic signage, and robust public information campaigns to reduce inconvenience for road users and commercial transport operators.

4. Pedestrian Crossings and Road Safety

Expressing concern about road projects passing through densely populated settlements without adequate pedestrian crossings, he warned that the absence of temporary and permanent crossings exposes residents—particularly children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities—to significant safety risks. He urged the provision of footbridges, zebra crossings, walkways, and traffic‑calming measures.

5. Protection of Surveying Pillars and Geodetic Controls

Dr. Gyamera highlighted the destruction of national survey pillars and geodetic control points during road construction due to poor identification. Describing these as critical national assets for land administration, mapping, and infrastructure development, he recommended mandatory collaboration with licensed surveyors and the Lands Commission to identify, protect, or re‑establish such markers where necessary.

6. Stakeholder Engagement and Community Relations

He stressed the importance of early and continuous engagement with traditional authorities, local assemblies, professional bodies, and affected communities. Transparent communication on project timelines, compensation, access arrangements, and safety measures, he said, would promote project ownership, reduce conflicts, and strengthen public trust in the Big Push Initiative.

Dr. Gyamera reaffirmed his support—and that of allied professionals—for government efforts aimed at delivering sustainable, inclusive, and professionally executed infrastructure development across Ghana.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of Women in Engineering at IET Ghana, Engr. Mrs. Adjoa Aginba Tetteh Gyamera, urged contractors and government agencies implementing the Big Push Initiative to prioritize women’s participation. She noted the growing number of women in the engineering profession and called for deliberate efforts to encourage their involvement in a field traditionally dominated by men, citing their strong attention to detail and technical competence as valuable contributions to national development.

Ghanaians Feel Trapped in Democracy Without Real Choice, Says Review Chair

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Ghanaians Lose Ghc To Online Investment Scams In January Brand Focus Africa
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Professor H Kwasi Prempeh has revealed that public consultations by the Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) uncovered growing frustration among citizens who feel Ghana’s democratic system no longer offers meaningful alternatives despite regular elections.

The CRC chairman, speaking December 27 on TV3’s Hot Issues programme, said nationwide engagements showed people remain appreciative of democratic freedoms, particularly their ability to speak openly and vote governments in or out of office. However, he noted that beneath this appreciation lay a deeper sense of weariness about whether electoral change produces substantive transformation.

“They like the democracy that they are seeing in terms of an ability to speak your mind, to vote for the government you like, to vote against a party you don’t like. I think they were getting a bit tired. We change these parties, and then what?” Prof Prempeh asked.

The Committee’s report warns that Ghana risks becoming a choiceless democracy, a system where citizens periodically vote in peaceful elections but experience little change in governance quality or socioeconomic outcomes. The assessment suggests that while the 1992 Constitution has delivered political stability, peaceful power transfers and civil liberties, it has not sufficiently translated democratic competition into developmental results.

According to Prof Prempeh, several participants in public consultations expressed that democracy had become limiting rather than empowering. “For most people, you could get the sense that the democracy was becoming choiceless for them,” he observed.

Despite the frustration articulated during consultations, the law professor described the openness of the discussions as encouraging and said the honesty of feedback would influence how the CRC approaches reform proposals. “The openness with which people spoke their ideas was quite refreshing to see,” he stated.

The CRC conducted nationwide consultations systematically, allowing individuals, civil society groups, professional bodies, political actors and traditional authorities to contribute meaningfully to the review. Prof Prempeh said the committee visited all ten regions and held engagements with academics, trade unions and citizens across the country.

The eight member Constitutional Review Committee submitted its final report titled “Transforming Ghana: From Electoral Democracy to Developmental Democracy” to President John Dramani Mahama on December 22. The comprehensive document proposes constitutional amendments aimed at strengthening governance, promoting citizen participation and addressing key national challenges.

Major recommendations include extending the presidential term from four to five years to allow sufficient time for policy implementation, separating the executive from the legislature to reduce conflicts of interest, and binding Parliament to Ghana’s National Development Plan in lawmaking and budgeting.

President Mahama acknowledged that some proposals were far reaching but necessary to strengthen Ghana’s democratic order, particularly as constitutional governance in parts of the region faces strain. He directed that the report be published soon, stating he did not want it kept like a nuclear secret.

Prof Prempeh chairs the CRC established in January 2025 to identify gaps in previous constitutional reforms and recommend amendments to improve governance. He serves as executive director of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development and is a professor at Seton Hall University School of Law in the United States.

Mahama assures Gomoa Central of roads, jobs and a 24-hour industrial future

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President John Dramani Mahama has given firm assurances that Gomoa Central will soon witness major infrastructure and industrial transformation, following his Christmas visit to the constituency.

Gomoa Central MP Kwame A Plus described the visit as more than a festive retreat, saying it came with “clear and reassuring commitments” from the President towards development.

NACOC raids drug dens in Eastern and Greater Accra regions, 72 arrested

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The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has conducted intelligence-led operations in the Eastern and Greater Accra regions, dismantling several drug dens under a festive-season crackdown code-named “Operation White Ember.”

The coordinated raids targeted known drug hotspots, including Mamfe and Tutu in the Eastern Region, as well as Madina Redco Flats, Zongo Junction, and the railway slums around Airport City in the Greater Accra Region.

A total of 72 suspects were arrested during the operations.

On Friday, December 26, the operation was extended to Tema Community One and Teshie Nungua, where additional arrests were made, and quantities of suspected narcotic substances were seized with support from NACOC’s K9 units.

As part of the broader security exercise, patrols were also carried out at shopping malls and beaches across the capital to curb drug-related activities during the Christmas festivities.

NACOC said the drugs seized, including ecstasy, methamphetamine, and cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages, posed a serious threat to public health, noting that their removal helped prevent potential cases of addiction during the festive period.

The Commission said the operation underscores its commitment to ensuring that the Christmas season remains safe, stressing that drug enforcement efforts would cover public spaces, residential communities, beaches, and informal settlements.

Officers also engaged residents who gathered at the scenes, using the opportunity to educate community members on the dangers of drug abuse and its impact on public safety.

NACOC assured the public that similar operations would continue in the coming weeks and months as part of sustained efforts to improve security and protect lives nationwide.

Alleged commercial sex worker beaten by client

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A commercial sex worker operating in Sekondi has reportedly been severely assaulted by a man who allegedly solicited her services.

The victim, a Nigerian national who identified herself as Nancy, told CONNECT FM that the incident occurred on Friday night, December 26, when the man approached her for her services.

According to her, the two agreed on a fee of GH¢50 for a short period and proceeded to the man’s residence.

Nancy said the situation escalated when she realised the man was attempting to go beyond the agreed time. She explained that she informed him she was tired and could not continue, a decision she said angered him.

She alleged that the man then demanded a refund of the GH¢50, which she refused, insisting that she had already rendered the agreed service.

The man subsequently demanded her mobile phone, and when she declined, he allegedly assaulted her.

Nancy said she has since reported the incident to the Sekondi Police, who have issued her a medical form to seek treatment at a hospital, while the investigation continues.