The Apostolic Nunciature in Ghana has described the late Pope Francis as a tireless advocate for human dignity whose pontificate was defined by a gospel of mercy, fraternity and peace, following the Vatican’s confirmation of his death on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025.

A statement released by the Apostolic Nunciature in Ghana –  the official embassy of the Holy See (the Vatican) – in Accra, highlighted the deep spiritual impact the Holy Father had not only on the global Catholic community but on humanity at large.

“The Holy Father devoted his entire pontificate to the service of the universal Church, promoting the Gospel of mercy, fraternity, and peace,” the Nunciature said. “His pastoral leadership, spiritual depth, and tireless commitment to the dignity of every human person have left an indelible mark on the life of the Church and on humanity.”

Throughout his 12-year tenure as leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis championed the plight of the poor, refugees, and marginalised communities, urging the world to see the divine in every person. His teachings often focused on compassion, social justice, and the need for dialogue across religions and cultures.

In Ghana, Catholic leaders and faithful have praised Pope Francis for being a “people’s pope,” whose humility and reformist vision resonated strongly across Africa. From his encyclical Fratelli Tutti on human fraternity to Laudato Si’, his call for environmental stewardship, the Pope’s messages found a receptive audience on the continent.

The Nunciature’s statement also described Pope Francis as a spiritual giant whose commitment to the poor and the voiceless elevated the Church’s moral responsibility in today’s world. His consistent emphasis on mercy over judgment challenged traditional power structures within the Church and inspired a generation of young Catholics to embrace social activism grounded in faith.

Ghana’s Catholic community, which forms part of the country’s religious landscape, is expected to organise a series of liturgical commemorations in the coming days. The Nunciature noted that further details on memorial services and acts of homage would be announced in due course.

As tributes pour in from across the globe, Ghanaians of all faiths are reflecting on a papacy that bridged divides, challenged indifference, and called the world to a deeper sense of shared humanity.

In mourning the Pope’s passing, the Nunciature renewed its expression of “deep spiritual closeness and gratitude to the good people of Ghana,” reaffirming the unifying vision of the late Pontiff and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

Fitch Solutions on Ghana’s impact amid US import tariff

UK-based research firm, Fitch Solutions, has projected that Ghana is expected to be among the least affected economies in Sub-Saharan Africa Following the latest US tariff measures announced by President Donald Trump.

In a regional ranking published by the UK-based firm, Ghana is placed 42nd in terms of vulnerability to the new US tariff regime, suggesting a comparatively limited exposure relative to peers.

The country faces an effective reciprocal tariff rate of 10%, with cocoa, textiles, and selected agricultural exports cited as the most impacted sectors.

Fitch’s “Effective US Reciprocal Tariff Rates” index incorporates not only headline duties but also considers exemptions and sector-specific levies.

The index highlights that the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, Sao Tome and Principe, Niger and Eritrea will face the greatest tariff pressures in the Sub-Saharan region.

Equatorial Guinea, by contrast, is forecast to be the least affected among the 48 Sub-Saharan economies assessed.

The broader Sub-Saharan African region, however, may experience renewed macroeconomic pressure, particularly among oil-exporting countries, amid a sharp decline in crude prices.

Brent crude has fallen nearly 15% since April 2, 2025, with analysts warning of further downside risks tied to weakening global demand and OPEC+’s decision to increase supply by restoring previously cut volumes.

“We believe that SSA’s oil-exporting markets will come under significant pressure should global oil prices fail to recover. Among the larger markets, Angola and Nigeria are particularly vulnerable given their structural dependence on oil as a source of both government revenue and foreign exchange,” Fitch noted.

While Ghana appears shielded from the worst effects, analysts warn that targeted sectors such as cocoa and textiles, both of which form a meaningful part of Ghana’s export base, may still face disruptions, especially if key US buyers diversify sourcing to avoid elevated costs.

SP/EB

 Government ap­pointees serving on the fourth assembly of the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) have been urged to use their expertise to help the assembly achieve its development goals.

The Presiding Member (PM) for LaDMA, Emmanuel Nyarko Baah, made the call at short swearing-in ceremony of five new appointees of the assembly at La on Monday.

According Mr Baah, the inclusion of the appointees was very critical to the decision making process of the assem­bly, adding that their presence in addition to the elected assembly members would help the assembly attain its two-thirds majority during meetings.

“You were appointed be­cause of your vast expertise so you cannot sit down with us at meetings without sharing your knowledge on how best the assembly could attain its devel­opmental goals” he said.

The PM pleaded with the appointees to work closely with all assembly members in their respective electoral areas to offer prompt suggestions on urgent developmental matters in the area.

“You are assembly members without electoral area but with the oversight responsibilities and powers over all the 10 electoral areas in the municipality, you are to offer suggestions on sensitive matters that needs urgent atten­tion” he said.

Mr Baah aslo stated that the assembly is planning a training workshop for the appointees in order to help them come to speed on their daily activities as members of the assembly.

On behalf of the Appointees, Francis Ken Kofi Anderson ex­pressed their appreciation to the President for the appointment and pledged to discharge their duties effectively for the benefit of the communities at La.

The appointees, who were made up of three male and two female, were sworn in by the La District Court Magistrate, Justice Adwoa D. Asumadu-Sekye.

They are Ms Karen Naa Dro­mo Barnes Asare, Ms Augustina Abbey, Miyemliniaba Nii Adjei Asua Qweeni, Mr Francis Ken Kofi Anderson and Mr John Nartey Doku.

 BY VICTOR A. BUXTON

In response to macroeconomic problems and inflationary pressures, the Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) increased the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 100 basis points (bps) to 28.0%. 

High inflation, exchange rate volatility, and fiscal deficits have all weighed heavily on Ghana’s economic stability, prompting the decision. 

While the change is meant to enhance the economy in the long run, it will have a substantial immediate impact on small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and their owners. 

Understanding the repercussions of this rate hike is critical because SMEs are the backbone of Ghana’s economy, accounting for a large portion of employment and GDP. 

The following are keyways this hike will influence SMEs and company owners in Ghana.

Increased cost of borrowing

One of the direct repercussions of the MPR hike is higher loan rates from commercial banks. 

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that rely on bank loans to fund operations, expansion, or inventory purchases will face higher interest rates. 

This will make credit more expensive, reducing firms’ capacity to obtain much-needed finance. 

The increased cost of borrowing may result in cash flow difficulties, impeding growth and expansion initiatives. 

For instance, a Kumasi furniture maker requesting a GH₵200,000 loan at 30% interest (up from 27%) now pays GH₵60,000/year instead of GH₵54,000. 

This results in a decreasing profit. Furthermore, market participants utilizing overdrafts pay higher fees, causing some to reduce inventory orders.

Reduced profit margins

Higher borrowing prices can have a substantial impact on Ghana’s SMEs, particularly those with tight profit margins. 

For example, a small agribusiness that obtains a loan to expand its operations may discover that rising interest rates raise monthly obligations. 

Instead of using revenues to buy more raw materials or hire more employees, the company must devote a greater part of its revenue to debt payment. 

Similarly, an Accra retail shop that uses loans to stock inventory may struggle to maintain profitability as payback obligations increase, causing it to lower stock levels. 

This financial burden might result in downsizing, limited business growth, or even closure. 

To survive, SMEs must consider cost-cutting measures, alternative funding options, and better cash flow management.

Decline in consumer spending

A higher Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) diminishes economic liquidity, raising borrowing costs for both businesses and consumers. 

Consumer spending falls as disposable income falls, which has a direct impact on Ghana’s SMEs. 

For example, a small restaurant in Kumasi may see fewer clients if residents cut back on dining out. 

Similarly, a store in Accra may witness a drop in sales as customers priorities necessities above fashion. 

Service-based businesses, such as hairdressers and event planners, may struggle when customers restrict discretionary spending. 

With decreasing revenues, SMEs may struggle to fund operational costs, pay personnel, and replace inventory. 

To survive, firms must investigate cost-cutting strategies, diversify revenue streams, and increase consumer loyalty through promotions or value-added services.

Limited access to capital and investment

With rising capital costs, Ghana’s venture capitalists, private investors, and banks may become more risk-averse, making it difficult for SMEs to acquire funding. 

For example, an Accra-based IT business creating an agritech solution may struggle to attract investors who want bigger returns. 

Similarly, a small manufacturing business in Takoradi looking for a loan to improve its equipment may face stiffer lending criteria, such as greater collateral or interest rates. 

As banks tighten lending access, SMEs that require working money for expansion or innovation may be pushed to reduce their operations. 

To overcome this difficulty, firms could investigate alternate funding options such as grants, crowdfunding, or strategic alliances, while also upgrading their financial records to attract potential investors.

Potential business closures and job losses

For SMEs already facing economic difficulties, an increase in the cost of loans could be the tipping point that leads to business closures. 

Businesses that cannot sustain operations due to excessive debt costs and dwindling sales may be forced to close. 

This, in turn, will result in job losses, affecting livelihoods and raising unemployment rates in Ghana.

Conclusion

The 100-basis point hike in Ghana’s Monetary Policy Rate to 28.0% creates a tough environment for SMEs and business owners. 

While the policy action aims to manage inflation and stabilize the economy, it comes at a cost: increased borrowing costs, lower profitability, decreased consumer demand, and limited access to capital. 

Business owners must adjust by looking into new financing options, increasing operational efficiencies, and carefully controlling costs. 

Meanwhile, authorities should consider additional steps to boost SMEs, such as targeted funding programs, tax breaks, and policies that promote a more resilient business environment. 

The route ahead is unpredictable, but careful preparation and adaptability will be critical in navigating these economic shifts.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has revealed that simple courtesies—like saying “please” and “thank you” to ChatGPT—come with a surprisingly high cost, contributing significantly to the company’s electricity expenses.

Altman made the comment in response to a user on X (formerly Twitter) who inquired about the financial impact of polite interactions with AI. He replied that the cost amounted to “tens of millions of dollars well spent,” adding cryptically, “You never know.”

Chatbots like ChatGPT are powered by large language models (LLMs), which rely on massive computing infrastructure hosted in energy-intensive data centres. These facilities are driven by thousands of high-performance graphics processing units (GPUs), which handle the complex parallel processing needed to interpret prompts and generate responses in real time.

The energy demand is substantial. A single AI-generated response—such as a short email or paragraph—can consume up to 0.14 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, the equivalent of keeping 14 LED bulbs lit for one hour. With billions of interactions daily, the cumulative power consumption is enormous.

Globally, data centres already account for around 2% of total electricity usage. With the rapid rise of AI tools like ChatGPT and the growing demand for generative AI services, experts warn that this figure could increase sharply in the coming years.

While some may view polite phrasing when engaging with AI as unnecessary, many experts argue that it actually enhances the quality of the interaction.

Kurtis Beavers, a design director for Microsoft Copilot, supports using respectful prompts. He notes that politeness isn’t just about good manners—it also influences the tone and constructiveness of AI responses.

“When it clocks politeness, it’s more likely to be polite back,” states Microsoft WorkLab, a digital publication focused on AI’s integration in the workplace.

So, while saying “please” to an AI may come with a literal price tag, proponents argue that it fosters a more respectful and productive digital dialogue—an investment, it seems, that OpenAI is willing to make.

Source: New York Post

For many years, the conversation about gender equality in the workplace has focused on empowerment. Women have been encouraged to step up, lean in and seize opportunities.

At a recent Women’s Network Forum event hosted by Absa Bank Ghana, a different message emerged: women do not need more motivation-we need real access, institutional support and a seat at the decision-making table.

Women need to own their success, financial institutions and businesses should provide equal access to resources, and organisations must move beyond the rhetoric to implement real policies that dismantle biases.

The ownership mindset

One of the most poignant points of the event was made by Janet Sunkwa-Mills, an entrepreneur who highlighted a fundamental challenge many women face: self-doubt. Throughout her career, she was repeatedly asked, “Can you?”- a question that subtly reinforced the idea that women must prove themselves in ways men do not.

The truth is, competence speaks louder than bias. Women must take control of their professional and financial growth, ensuring their skills and contributions are so visible that bias becomes irrelevant. As Patricia Obo-Nai, CEO of Telecel, remarked, “Bring your competence to the table – because results are the only language that cannot be ignored.”

However, competence alone is not enough. Whilst women can own their success, if the systems around them remain unchanged, progress will stall.

Workplace policies must evolve to support women’s career progression. As of 2023, only 18 per cent of employed women were in wage or salaried jobs, and of that number, only 26.6 per cent held senior and middle management positions in Ghana.

It stands to reason that flexible working arrangements, fair parental leave, fair remuneration and structured leadership pipelines are not privileges; they are necessary frameworks for ensuring women can compete on equal terms.

Why financial inclusion matters

Women already play a critical role in Ghana’s economy. According to the World Bank, 65.3 per cent of women participate in the labour force, yet many struggle to access finance. As of 2023, 58 per cent of women entrepreneurs cited lack of funding as their biggest obstacle. 

Financial inclusion is critical to overcoming these barriers. This is where initiatives like Absa’s female banking proposition, SHE Business, make a difference. One of its key features is collateral-free loans of up to GH₵2 million, which removes one of the most significant barriers women face when accessing credit. 

The programme also includes highly discounted interest rates (10 per cent per annum) to ease the financial pressure on women, as well as comprehensive insurance cover to safeguard businesses against unforeseen risks.

Beyond SHE Business, Absa Bank has several broader efforts that support women entrepreneurs. Through its partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, over GH₵630 million in loans have been disbursed to women at 10 per cent per annum. 

Capacity-building remains a crucial part of this initiative. In 2024, a total of 3,492 women, including smallholder farmers, received training to enhance their business skills. Absa Bank also facilitates platforms that grant women access to international markets. For example, the annual Inspire Me Conference empowers women entrepreneurs to reach new markets, connect with buyers, and establish international business partnerships. In 2024, this conference supported 30 delegates from diverse industries to explore partnerships in Kenya.

Another key aspect of Absa Bank’s support for women is the SME Business Clinics, which provide businesses with practical training, strategic insights, and networking platforms to scale their businesses. In 2024 alone, 336 women attended these clinics, representing 41.6 per cent of the total participants.

Moving beyond rhetoric to real reform

It is not enough for companies and policymakers to talk about gender equality; there is a need to implement structural changes that support it. 

Some of the most prominent suggestions that emerged from the event included rethinking hiring and promotion processes to ensure deserving female candidates have clear pathways to leadership, creating mentorship and sponsorship opportunities that open doors to senior leadership, and encouraging men to serve as allies in creating inclusive environments.

The reality is, when women thrive, businesses and economies thrive. The data is clear: companies with more women in leadership outperform their peers, and countries with strong female workforce participation experience faster economic growth.

As the event concluded, one statement stood tall: “We cannot wait.” If gender equality progresses at its current pace, it will take over a century to close the global gender gap, and that is unacceptable. Real change requires urgency.

The path forward is clear: women must take ownership of their success, institutions must create access, and organisations must enforce policies that drive inclusion.

Now is the time to accelerate action – not just for the benefit of women, but for the country as a whole.

About the Absa Women’s Network Forum

The Women’s Network Forum is an internal initiative by Absa Bank Ghana aimed at empowering female colleagues through structured programmes in education, financial literacy, professional development, networking, mentoring and coaching. Its core objective is to promote equity and inclusion within Absa Bank Ghana. 

The event, Absa Women’s Network Forum event, held on the theme Accelerate Action: Overcoming Biases and Barriers Women Face in the Workplace, served as a thought leadership platform to explore practical strategies for achieving gender equality in the world of work. 

The event was graced by several distinguished personalities, including guest speaker Patricia Obo-Nai, CEO of Telecel Ghana; Frances Adu-Mante, Board Chair of Absa Bank Ghana; Judith Haizel, Compliance Director at Absa Bank Ghana; and Evelyn Acquah, Chief Customer Officer at Absa Bank Ghana. 

The panel featured Janet Sunkwa-Mills, an accomplished entrepreneur and CEO of Jane’m Salon & Spa; Dr Afua Ansre, a senior gender specialist and former UN adviser; Christabel Vorgbe, Head of Youth Segment at Absa Bank Ghana; and Julian Boakye, Learning and Development Partner at Absa Bank Ghana.

The writer is the Acting Chief Risk Officer, Chairperson of the Women’s Network Forum at Absa Bank Ghana LTD

The Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Mohammed Abdul-Salam, has cautioned the public against lotto fraudsters, particularly on social media. 

He advises against falling prey to fraudsters who claim to possess leaked winning numbers in exchange for money, a deceitful practice that has victimised many.

Mr. Abdul Salam made these remarks in Kwahu, Nkwatia, where the NLA held its Easter Community Draw on Saturday, 19^th April. 

“A lot of the time, these scammers use the images of Management and Staff on social media, assuring unsuspecting people that they can make them rich in connivance with officials of NLA, and have defrauded several people through this narrative.  If anybody tells you they can make you rich, consider it like choosing to stake your car number. Nobody can manipulate the numbers or find a way to make you win. The National Lottery Authority’s games are meant for development and are purely a game of chance. “Mr. Abdul-Salam said.

The NLA organises community draws periodically to bring the lottery draw process closer to the public and foster community engagement.

Mr. Abdul-Salam emphasised the transparency of Community Draws. “These events, where the NLA’s Draw machines are relocated from the Authority’s Brennan Hall to a community, serve as a platform for the public to witness the Draw Process firsthand, dispelling any misconceptions about the NLA’s Draws being manipulated”, said Mohammed Abdul-Salam.

Mr. Abdul-Salam also urged patrons to share the obligation of responsible gaming by not overindulging to prevent addiction and ensuring that minors are not involved in playing the game. 

The NLA Director General thanked the Managing Director of Prudential Bank, Bernard Appiah Gyebi, the Kwahumanhene, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III; Nkwatiahene and Kwahu Sananahene, Nana Boamah Ayiripe III; Aburihene, Otoobour Djan Kwasi I; Dodowahene, Okukrubuor Nene Teye Kwasi Agyeman and Abotakyihene, Nana Kwame Sakyi Ababio III and their wing chiefs for gracing the occasion to witness the National Weekly Lotto Draw.

NLA’s National Weekly Lotto Draw was presented by ace Presenters, Akwasi Boadi Akrobeto, Robert Nana Kodua, Wofa K and NLA’s in-house presenter, Nancy Awuradwoa Darko, who entertained and interacted with the crowd that had thronged the venue to observe the Draw.

Patrons answered questions and others who won received souvenirs.

NLA Good Causes Foundation Donates Items To Chiefs Of Kwahu

In line with tradition, as a gesture of solidarity, and in accordance with the Arts and Culture Pillar of the NLA’s Good Causes Foundation, a team, led by the Deputy Director-General, Eric Yeboah Wadie, presented items to the Kwahumanhene, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III and Nkwatiahene, Nana Boamah Ayiripe III., in support of the Easter festivities. The items included packs of water, cartons of drinks, and cash donations.

The chiefs thanked the Deputy Director-General and the Management of NLA for honouring them by celebrating Easter with the Kwahu people and bringing the Draw to their community.

They also congratulated Eric Yeboah Wadie, a native of Kwahu, on his appointment as Deputy Director-General. They wished him success in this new role and urged him to conduct himself creditably to bring honour to his community.

The Arts and Culture Pillar of the NLA Good Causes Foundation celebrates and supports projects safeguarding and protecting Ghanaian cultural events and educational programs.

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As part of preparations for the relaunch of National Sanitation Day in May this year, Jospong NextGen, the youth wing of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), has begun a nationwide sanitation awareness campaign.

Jospong NextGen’s campaign is a youth-led initiative focused on promoting environmental cleanliness and sanitation across the country.

The campaign, launched in Obomeng, Eastern Region, on Easter Friday (April 18, 2025), aims to raise awareness about the upcoming relaunch while educating the public on the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment.

The team engaged with drivers, shop owners, and residents in Obomeng, Atibie, and Mpraeso, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response. Many community members accepted stickers and pledged to support the clean-living message.

The relaunch of National Sanitation Day will establish the first Saturday of every month as a dedicated day for nationwide clean-up activities.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the campaign, the Lead of Jospong NextGen, Akosua Bosompemaa Amoako, explained that the initiative was part of a nationwide effort inspired by the government’s plans to relaunch National Sanitation Day.

She emphasised the importance of keeping the environment clean and healthy.

“We want people to understand the need to dispose of waste properly—not just anywhere—but in designated bins,” she noted.

According to her, Kwahu was strategically chosen due to the massive influx of people during the Easter festivities, making it the perfect place to reach a large and diverse audience.

“We know that during Easter, Kwahu becomes a gathering point for people from all over Ghana. Almost the whole of Ghana is here for Easter, and we know how symbolic Kwahu is during this time. It’s the perfect opportunity to reach as many people as possible,” she added. “That’s why we came here—to reach as many people as possible with this message,” she indicated.

Ms. Amoako underscored that the campaign was just the beginning, adding, “We’re working hard to extend our message to communities across Ghana. The support from the Ministry of Local Government has been instrumental, particularly because of the youth-driven nature of our initiative.”

The campaign has also received strong backing from Zoomlion Ghana Limited (their parent company), The Church of Pentecost, and the Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA), with hopes that more organisations will come on board as it expands.

“This initiative is not just about cleaning up; it’s about changing mindsets,” Ms. Amoako stressed. “We recognise that many of our sanitation issues stem from attitudes and habits. Through this campaign, we’re encouraging people to be more responsible—use bins, avoid littering, and become sanitation ambassadors in their own communities,” she noted.

“We’re truly encouraged by the enthusiasm of the people,” she concluded. “Seeing them willing to participate, listen, and spread the word gives us hope that together, we can transform the sanitation culture in Ghana,” Ms. Amoako concluded.

President John Dramani Mahama has renewed his call for sound economic policies that place entrepreneurs at the centre of Ghana’s development agenda.

He stressed the urgent need to unlock opportunities and give meaningful expression to the success of hardworking Ghanaians.

In a Facebook post after a three-day visit to Kwahu during the Easter festivities, President Mahama highlighted the importance of creating an environment where businesses can thrive.

“We need sound economic policies that empower entrepreneurs, unlock opportunities, and bring real meaning to their success,” he posted.

He noted that Ghana’s economic future rests heavily on the creativity and resilience of its private sector, and reiterated his commitment to resetting the economy in a way that supports innovation, job creation, and inclusive growth.

Read also: Kwahu Business Forum: Exhibitors, participants commend government for initiative

During his time in Kwahu, President Mahama engaged with business executives, CEOs, and heads of financial institutions, lauding their contributions to the local economy.

He also described the visit as both energising and inspiring, reinforcing his belief in the entrepreneurial strength of Ghanaians.

“Spending the last three days in Kwahu for the Easter festivities has been truly refreshing!

A special thank you to the Kwahu business executives, CEOs, and heads of various financial institutions and other agencies.

We should remain impressed by the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to fostering a thriving local economy. The energy and ambition I observed reaffirmed my belief in the potential of Ghanaian businesses.”

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.

Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has highlighted a robust roadmap set in tone to transform the country’s digital ecosystem, enhance transparency and accountability across the sector.

Speaking during his first quarterly press briefing, the minister emphasised that the technology and innovation space remains a critical pillar for economic transformation and youth empowerment.

As such, his outfit has employed measures to significantly harness the sector’s benefits toward development.

One million coders programme takes off

A flagship initiative highlighted is the One Million Coders Programme rollout, a project designed to equip youth with digital skills for the future of work.

The programme was launched on April 16, 2025 in the Greater Accra, Ashanti, Bono and Upper East Regions, aimed at preparing young people for roles in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) sectors.

Mr. Nartey George also disclosed that a standardised digital curriculum has been developed by the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT, ensuring equitable access to training across all regions.

“The ministry launched intensive efforts to mobilise partners and secure the resources needed to implement the programme and deliver results at scale through strategic diplomacy and public-private partnerships.

“A landmark memorandum of understanding was signed with the MTN Group, with several other agreements with other private Ghanaian and International partners currently being finalised to support implementation. The programme features 50/50 gender inclusion,” he stated.

Internet access and connectivity

The minister also revealed ongoing interventions to make internet access more affordable and accessible.

He recounted that the multi-stakeholder data cost-pricing committee that was formed in February to deliver a roadmap for reducing data costs. The report has since been submitted, with all three major mobile network operators agreeing to introduce special data bundles tailored for tertiary students, content creators and gig economy workers.

Additionally, network providers have agreed to offer discounted data packages on five national holidays each year.

Wasteful contracts

Underscoring the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, the minister announced a non-renewal of the controversial KelniGVG Common Monitoring Platform contract – citing alarming cost inefficiencies.

He stated that fees paid under the contract had ballooned, saying: “As of October 2024, the fees paid to KelniGVG represent 84 percent of the revenue accruing to the state. This means the state is paying far more to monitor the revenue than it retains”.

He added that the ministry has also begun investigating irregularities in other inherited contracts, particularly at the National Information Technology Agency (NITA). These include questionable payments to project management firms not directly contracted by the agency.

Also, as part of a broader clean-up, 13 staff under the World Bank-funded Ghana Digital Acceleration Programme have had their contracts terminated due to issues of concern.

“This became necessary to show our zero level of tolerance for any semblance of graft or corruption in the ministry,” he stated.

SIM registration

“We will commence public sensitisation and education toward the impending SIM registration and Central Equipment Identity Register….Ghanaians will not be saddled with having to abandon work and queue for long hours to register their SIMs. The process will be human-centred and technology-driven. This registration is critical for our collective security as a nation,” he indicates.

Legislative reform

To modernise the sector’s legal architecture, its sector minister is spearheading the redrafting of several outdated laws – some dating back over two decades

“To effectively regulate technology in today’s fast-evolving digital environment, I have initiated a comprehensive review of existing legislation and regulatory frameworks.

“We are redrafting outdated laws to ensure they reflect present realities, anticipate future developments and provide a transparent, enabling environment for innovation, investment and consumer protection. I am confident I will lay the revised legislation before prliament in its next meeting,” he said.

The Ghana Innovation and Startup bill, he added, has gained stakeholder support and is nearing finalisation.

Artificial intelligence

On the country’s artificial intelligence blueprint, he said: “Ghana has entered strategic partnerships with key partners such as the British High Commission, UNESCO and other international organisations to support efforts toward Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and blueprint.

“The ministry has commenced critical efforts to digitise the nation’s essential data sets as a foundational step in our national Artificial Intelligence agenda.”

Disinformation

To combat the rising tide of misinformation and disinformation, the minister will present specialised legislation in parliament to create a legal framework that manages false and harmful digital content.

The Cyber Security Authority has also intensified its monitoring efforts, collaborating with security agencies to ensure responsible communication in the digital space.

GIFEC reforms

The minister also noted that the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) has begun an inventory of digital centres and is pushing forward with completing the Rural Telephony Project to improve the digital inclusion drive.

“I have also directed an asset inventory of our infrastructure across the country to ensure that these centres, built primarily under the first John Mahama administration, are put to use,” he noted.

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 Tributes from around the globe have poured in follow­ing the death of Pope Francis, the 88-year-old leader of the Roman Catholic Church, who passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, just a day after celebrating Easter Mass at St. Peter’s Square in Rome.

The Vatican confirmed the Pope’s passing after a prolonged struggle with illness, noting that although he had been discharged from the hospital recently and had resumed his papal duties, his death came suddenly, leaving millions of Catholics and world leaders shocked and mourning.

Many global leaders took to social me­dia platforms, including Facebook and X, to express their condolences and pay homage to a man widely seen as a spiri­tual reformer and a beacon of humility, compassion, and peace.

His Royal Majesty King Charles in a tribute stated: My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.”

Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, General Secretary of the Commonwealth, shared her sorrow in a Facebook post:

“Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His advo­cacy for the poor, peace and tolerance touched the lives of people across the Commonwealth and the world. May he rest in peace.”

French President Emmanuel Ma­cron called the late pontiff “a man of humility,” recognising Francis’s personal simplicity and his devotion to the mar­ginalised.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof remembered him as “a man of the peo­ple in every way,” reflecting the Pope’s lifelong commitment to bringing the Church closer to ordinary people.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola remarked on his warmth and universal appeal, saying, “His contagious smile captured millions of people’s hearts across the globe.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog praised the Pope’s compassion: “Pope Francis showed boundless compassion and dedication to building bridges between faiths. His legacy of peace and unity will endure.”

Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter echoed similar sentiments, describing Francis as “a great spiritual leader, a tireless advocate for peace.”

Scottish First Minister John Swin­ney highlighted the Pope’s moral voice in international affairs: “He was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation in a world that desperately needed it.”

— CNR

President John Drama­ni Mahama has observed that there are early signs of macroeconomic stabil­ity with inflation gradually easing.

He said with disciplined management, government was restoring a measure of confidence in our economy.

“I am confident—and I say this with sincerity—that we are turning a corner. But recovery alone is not enough. We must now set our sights higher — on transformation. We must build an economy that is resilient, inclusive, and productive,” the President said.

President Mahama made this ob­servation when he opened the second edition of the Kwahu Business Forum at Mpraeso in the Eastern Region on Saturday on the theme ‘The Future of Business: The Role of the Financial Sector’.

The forum, designed to serve as a platform for dialogue between financial institutions and private sector players, was to highlight investment opportu­nities, discuss policy interventions, and chart a path towards building a more resilient and competitive business land­scape in the country.

President Mahama’s observation comes on the back of consumer infla­tion rate declining for the third consec­utive month to 22.4 per cent in March 2025 from 23.1 per cent in February.

According to President Mahama, the quest to build a “resilient, inclusive, and productive economy” could not be achieved without a financial sector that works not just for a few, but for every Ghanaian business.

He said the government’s vision for Ghana’s future business landscape was bold and deliberate as it pursues targeted programmes to restore investor confidence by enhancing transparency, cutting bureaucratic red tapes, and pro­moting a rules-based investment climate.

“We are prioritising sectors that can absorb labour and grow our economy sustainably— agro-processing, ICT, manufacturing, tourism, renewable energy, and the green economy. But our focus is not only on attracting foreign investment. We are equally committed to empowering Ghanaians to become own­ers and drivers of enterprise,” he stated.

To truly enable business growth, he noted that there was the need to go beyond economic policy and champion a firm commitment to the rule of law, political stability, respect for contracts and property rights, a responsive, corruption-free public service that sees the private sector not just as a revenue source, but as a development partner.

A collaborative effort between government and the private sector, President Mahama said was what Ghana needed to change its socio-economies narrative. “The future of Ghana will not be determined by government alone. It will be determined by our ability to build partnerships—between state and private sector, between finance and innovation, and between leadership and the people,” he stated.

He lauded the Kwahu Business Fo­rum, describing it as a call to action and urged participants to join hands with the government to work together to build a Ghana that is competitive, productive, and inclusive. A Ghana that creates opportunity for all.

The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, disclosed that the government, in col­laboration with the private sector, was to establish three state-of-the-art garment factories to reduce the importation of fabrics.

She said each of the factories would have the capacity to provide 3,000 jobs per shift and create 27,000 jobs across three shifts under the 24-hour economy policy.

Mrs Ofosu-Adjare, MP, Techiman North, added that a pharmaceutical manufacturing development policy to offer robust incentives and encourage local production of essential medicine was in the offing whiles a component manufacturing policy to support the automotive sector was being finalised.

The find was made during ongoing iron ore exploration in the Gyamurume range by GIISDEC and GGSA

Potentially mineable nickel deposits have been discovered in the Oti Region—a development that could diversify the country’s mineral portfolio and attract investment into battery metal supply chains.

The find was made during ongoing iron ore exploration in the Gyamurume range by the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA).

Preliminary drill samples indicate nickel concentrations exceeding one percent—considered commercially viable, raising the prospect of Ghana joining the global race for critical minerals.

While certified laboratory results are pending, officials say the early data is promising.

“We have found iron ore in good quantities, but we do not want a situation where an investor comes in for iron ore and then unexpectedly benefits from nickel as well,” GIISDEC Chief Executive Officer William Okofu Darteh said during a technical visit to the site.

“We want to know the full picture—what minerals are here, in what quantities and of what quality—before we make decisions,” he further stated.

GIISDEC has commissioned consultants to conduct a comprehensive mineral content analysis, expected to be completed by September 2025.

The study will determine the grade, volume and distribution of both iron and nickel across the site.

“We are doing a complete analysis because our mandate allows us to handle not just iron and steel but related minerals like copper and nickel. So this is still within our operational scope under the law,” Mr. Darteh told the B&FT.

Once validated, the findings will be packaged for investors, with the aim of attracting capital into the full value chain rather than piecemeal extraction.

The GGSA confirmed the presence of nickel in all eight drill holes completed so far. “The concentrations observed are within the economic range—in some cases even exceeding one percent —which is considered mineable for nickel,” David Yaw Kuma, senior geoscientist with the GGSA added.

Initial testing was done using handheld scanners, but results from certified commercial laboratories are expected to provide greater precision.

“We used handheld scanners to do some of the initial checks, and what we saw was promising. But we are now waiting for the results from the certified commercial laboratories. Those lab results will give us a clearer picture of what we are dealing with,” Mr. Kuma explained.

He noted the project’s scope could be adjusted depending on the lab-confirmed grades.

“The nickel discovery was not planned, but it’s there; and now we have to evaluate it carefully. We cannot ignore it,” he said.

Nickel is a key input in lithium-ion batteries, and demand has surged in recent years due to the accelerating global energy transition. Ghana’s entrance into the nickel market would align with its broader strategy to position itself as a critical minerals supplier.

The country is also developing the Ewoyaa Lithium Project in the Central Region, which is projected to produce around 365,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate annually. Together, the projects signal Ghana’s growing ambition in battery metals, traditionally dominated by countries like Indonesia, the Philippines and Australia.

Despite the optimism, GIISDEC and GGSA say it’s too early to draw firm conclusions.

“We are not jumping to conclusions. We need the lab results. Once we get that, we will know what steps to take,” Mr. Darteh noted.

“We have something worth looking at, but let’s wait for the proper data. That’s how you build a strong mining sector—by relying on science and facts, not just speculation,” Mr. Kuma added.

Should commercial viability be confirmed, the nickel discovery is expected to boost investor interest in the Oti Region and contribute to Ghana’s longer-term plans to expand and modernise its mining sector. GIISDEC says transparency will be key in investor engagement.

“We want to be transparent with investors. If we are offering iron ore, and there is also nickel, then we must be upfront about it. That is how we build trust and long-term investment,” Mr. Darteh stressed.

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