11.3 C
London
Sunday, May 11, 2025
Home Blog Page 179

Tanzania’s main opposition party banned from election

0

Tanzanian opposition leader and former presidential candidate Tundu Lissu Tanzanian opposition leader and former presidential candidate Tundu Lissu

Tanzania’s main opposition party has been barred from participating in this year’s election, days after its leader was charged with treason.

Ramadhani Kailima, director of elections at the Independent National Elections Commission, said that Chadema had failed to sign a code of conduct document that was due on Saturday, meaning the party was disqualified from October’s elections.

Last week, Chadema’s leader Tundu Lissu was arrested and charged with treason following a rally in southern Tanzania at which he called for electoral reforms.

The CCM party, which has governed Tanzania since 1977, is expected to retain power following the latest developments.

“Any party that did not sign the code of conduct will not participate in the general election,” Mr Kailima said on Saturday, adding that Chadema would also be banned from taking part in any by-elections until 2030.

Earlier on Saturday, Chadema had said that it would not participate in a code of conduct signing ceremony, as part of its drive for voting reforms.

The country is due to vote in parliamentary and presidential elections, where Lissu was expected to challenge incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

When Hassan first came to power in 2021, after the death of her predecessor John Magufuli, she was praised for reversing some of his more authoritarian tendencies.

Campaigners and opposition parties have since accused Hassan’s government of an intensifying crackdown on political opponents, citing arrests and abductions of opposition members. The government has denied the accusations and launched an investigation into the abductions.

One of the longest-reigning parties in Africa, CCM – or Chama Cha Mapinduzi – has governed Tanzania for over five decades.

Under the slogan “No Reforms, No Election”, Lissu has argued that there was no possibility of free and fair elections without changes to how elections are run in Tanzania.

Lissu said that the make-up of the electoral commission needed to change and should not include people directly appointed by Hassan.

Authorities accuse Lissu of seeking to disrupt the election and incite a rebellion.

He has been remanded in custody and his treason case adjourned until 24 April. His lawyer, Rugemeleza Nshala, told Reuters that the charges were politically motivated, adding: “You cannot separate these charges from politics.”

The opposition leader has been arrested on numerous occasions and in 2017 survived an assassination attempt in which his vehicle was shot 16 times.

He then went into exile, returning briefly in 2020 to run against Magufuli in that year’s election. He left after the results were announced, complaining about supposed irregularities.

He then returned again in 2023, following changes introduced by Samia which her government said were aimed at allowing greater opposition freedom.

Pastor slaps member for sleeping during service

0

A disturbing video trending on social media that has sparked widespread outrage captures the shocking moment a pastor physically assaulted a male church member for dozing off during a sermon.

In the viral footage, the pastor, who was visibly angered by the man’s sleep can be seen walking toward the front row of the church where the member was seated.

We don’t want Ebi Bright as mayor, appoint a local – Irate Tema Youth tells Mahama

0

Some irate youths of Tema have boldly told President John Dramani Mahama they do not want Ebi Bright as mayor.

According to the irate Tema youths, the president must appoint a local from Tema as the mayor.

The Tema youths stormed the premises of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly to express their displeasure at the news they were hearing which suggested that Ebi Bright, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Tema Central in the 2024 election will be named as the Tema Mayor.

I started with 1 cedi, I started with 3 Cedis, I started selling cassettes, I sold bofrot & more- list of rich Ghanaians who started with almost nothi…

0

Numerous successful persons came from privileged backgrounds and all they needed to do was to coast through life, but for others, they had to claw their way to the top.

More often than not, It’s the latter that inspires a lot of people that it shall be well for them as well one day, and the stories of some Ghanaian business tycoons are one of those rags-to-riches stories.

Ghana moves from 13th to 12th country with lowest fuel prices in Africa

0

Fuel prices in Ghana remain high in 2025 Fuel prices in Ghana remain high in 2025

Ghana’s position has improved from being the 13th country in Africa with the lowest fuel prices to the 12th, while ranking 48th globally.

This ranking is according to data on globalpetrolprices.com, where Ghana’s average petrol price in April is $1.029 per litre.

Libya maintained its position as number one in Africa with the lowest fuel price of $0.027 per litre and number one globally. Angola and Egypt came 2nd and 3rd respectively with fuel prices of $0.328 and $0.331 per litre.

Algeria ($0.343), Nigeria ($0.560), Sudan (0.700), Tunisia ($0.831), Ethiopia ($0.851) and Liberia ($0.871) were 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th respectively.

Fuel prices in Ghana saw a marginal increase and decrease at various pumps across the country during the first pricing window of April.

Despite the fall in global crude prices, Ghana is yet to feel the impact as the cedi continues to depreciate against the dollar. 

Crude oil is currently selling below $60 due to trade wars between China and the US.

A report by the National Petroleum Authority noted that petrol prices rose by 2%, bringing the price per liter to GH¢15.20, while diesel increased by 1.1% to GH¢15.35 per liter.

However, there was a slight relief for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which dropped marginally by 0.3%, with a kilogramme selling at GH¢17.30.

SSD/AE

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Okaikwei Central NDC group threatens apathy over MCE snub

0

A concerned youth group of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Okaikwei North Constituency has vowed to be apathetic towards the party should their preferred candidate, Abdul-Rashid Issah be denied the Okaikwei North Municipal Chief Executive position.

This comes amidst speculations about the potential appointment of a candidate from Okaikwei North Constituency, a sister constituency of the Okaikwei North Municipality.

The group, during a media briefing in Accra on Sunday, April 13, accused the governing NDC of continued neglect despite its contribution to the party’s political fortunes.

Abass Yusif Hussein, the Branch Executive and spokesperson for the group, said, “As an MCE, he will bring inclusiveness, harmony and participatory governance. Your H.E., we must be blunt, any attempts to by pass Abdul-Rashid, respectfully, in the selection of the next MCE for Okaikwei North muncipality will be met with deep disappointment, resistance and potential demoralisation amongst party faithful.”

 

Prof. Gyampo sets new austerity tone at Ghana Shippers Authority

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

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

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

Meet the new Government Statistician: Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu

0

Ghana’s data-driven future is in capable hands with the appointment of Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu as the new Government Statistician.

A highly respected economist and public servant, Dr. Iddrisu brings more than 27 years of distinguished experience in economic policy management, statistical research, public finance, and institutional reform. His appointment marks a new era of strategic leadership, evidence-based decision-making, and enhanced national development planning.

A Foundation Built on Statistical and Economic Excellence

Dr. Iddrisu began his journey in economics and statistics with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Ghana, Legon. He went on to earn an MPhil in Economics from the same institution, followed by a PhD and Master’s in International Development Studies from the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Tokyo, Japan.

With a strong academic foundation rooted in both theory and applied research, he has consistently approached public service through the lens of rigorous data analysis and empirical evidence.

Leadership at the Core of National Policy

Over nearly three decades, Dr. Iddrisu has held some of the most critical leadership roles in Ghana’s Ministry of Finance.

As Chief Economics Officer and Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division (ESRD), he has led strategic policy formulation, macroeconomic forecasting, and fiscal management. His leadership was pivotal in negotiating Ghana’s US$3 billion IMF Extended Credit Facility programme in 2023, ensuring swift disbursements that supported the nation’s economic recovery.

He has also spearheaded the preparation of Ghana’s Fiscal Strategy Documents, Mid-Year Reviews, and Annual Budgets, ensuring that statistical integrity and economic modeling remained at the heart of government planning.

A Champion of Data-Driven Governance

Dr. Iddrisu’s approach to public finance and economic strategy is deeply rooted in statistical rigor. He has overseen the production of essential national reports, including Annual Macroeconomic Performance Reports, Fiscal Risks Statements, and Petroleum Fund Reconciliation Reports. These publications have become cornerstones of fiscal transparency and accountability in Ghana.

He also led the drafting of the 2024 Fiscal Responsibility Amendment Bill, which introduced a national debt rule and established an independent fiscal council—an institutional innovation that aligns perfectly with the mission of the Ghana Statistical Service to provide credible, timely, and relevant statistics for development.

Innovating for Transparency and Public Engagement

Recognizing the need for public engagement in economic discourse, Dr. Iddrisu introduced the Monthly Economic Updates and launched the Quarterly Economic Roundtable in collaboration with the University of Ghana. These initiatives have made complex economic issues more accessible to the public, academic institutions, and the media—fostering trust and broadening the reach of government data.

He also institutionalized the Social Partnership Council, a platform that brings together government, organized labour, and the private sector to align policy with the realities on the ground.

A Global Perspective, A Local Focus

Dr. Iddrisu has represented Ghana at high-level forums around the world, including the IMF, World Bank, African Union, and ECOWAS. His international engagements have shaped bilateral and multilateral negotiations, particularly in areas such as public finance management, climate financing, and economic integration.

In addition to his global presence, Dr. Iddrisu has contributed to capacity building across the region, serving as a consultant and facilitator in Liberia, The Gambia, Nigeria, and for several West African institutions. His deep understanding of both local dynamics and international best practices makes him uniquely equipped to elevate Ghana’s statistical systems to global standards.

A Respected Educator and Mentor

Beyond his public service, Dr. Iddrisu has maintained a strong commitment to education and mentorship. He has taught at GIMPA, the University of Ghana, and served as a resource person in training programs organized by WAIFEM, UNDP, and JICA. His mentorship has helped shape the next generation of economists, statisticians, and policymakers in Ghana and beyond.

Recognized for Excellence

His contributions have not gone unnoticed. Dr. Iddrisu has been awarded Overall Best Director in the Ghana Civil Service four times—in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022. He has also received commendations from both the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Head of Civil Service for excellence in macroeconomic policy and public service delivery.

The Right Leader for a Data-Driven Era

As Ghana advances its development agenda, the need for a Government Statistician who understands both the science of data and the art of governance has never been more urgent. Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu brings the perfect blend of technical expertise, leadership experience, and a visionary mindset to the role.

He is not only prepared to guide the Ghana Statistical Service into the future—he is poised to redefine how statistics shape the nation’s story.

CURRICULUM VITAE
DR. ALHASSAN IDDRISU

1. BRIEF PROFILE
Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu is a distinguished economist with over 27 years of expertise in economic
policy management, public finance, development economics, climate change financing,
petroleum revenue management, and economic integration. He has
an extensive publication record in these domains and has made
significant contributions to Ghana’s economic development.
Currently, Dr. Iddrisu serves as the Chief Economics Officer and
Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division (ESRD) at
Ghana’s Ministry of Finance. In this capacity, he leads strategic
economic research, policy analysis, and the formulation and
implementation of policies aimed at advancing the nation’s economic goals.
Over the years, Dr. Iddrisu has held several key leadership roles within the Ministry of Finance.
These include Director of the Economic Planning Division (EPD), the Real Sector Division (RSD),
and the Economic Research and Forecasting Division (ERFD). His leadership and expertise have
been instrumental in shaping Ghana’s economic policies and strategies.
Beyond his work at the Ministry, Dr. Iddrisu has served on numerous governing boards, councils,
and committees, where his extensive knowledge and leadership have significantly influenced
national development initiatives. He has also collaborated with leading global organizations,
including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, African Union (AU), and Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and has consulted for various international and
local institutions.
Dr. Iddrisu’s outstanding contributions to public service have earned him multiple accolades,
including being named “Best Director” in Ghana’s Civil Service for four years (2018, 2019, 2020,
and 2022). These awards recognize his exceptional performance, commitment, and dedication
to duty.
Dr. Iddrisu’s teaching engagements reflect his commitment to academic excellence, capacitybuilding, and knowledge dissemination in key areas of economics, public policy, and
development contributing to the education and professional development of students and
government staff alike.
Dr. Iddrisu holds a PhD and Master’s degree in International Development Studies from the
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Tokyo, Japan. He also earned an MPhil
in Economics and a BA in Economics and Statistics from the University of Ghana, Legon.
2
2. PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name: Alhassan IDDRISU (PhD)
Mailing Address: BD166, Abayateye St. GK-0529-9217, Community 24,
Tema, Ghana
Telephone: +233-24-8326300/ +233-20-203-0280
Email: [email protected] /[email protected]
Nationality: Ghanaian
3. PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE
Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu is a distinguished economist with over 27 years of expertise in economic
policy management, public finance, development economics, and climate change financing.
Currently serving as the Chief Economics Officer and Director of the Economic Strategy and
Research Division (ESRD) at Ghana’s Ministry of Finance, he has led strategic economic
research and policy analysis, significantly contributing to Ghana’s economic development.
Dr. Iddrisu’s leadership roles and collaborations with global organizations like the IMF and
World Bank highlight his ability to drive impactful economic policies.
His extensive knowledge, commitment to public service, and proven track record make him
an excellent fit for a top management role in Ghana’s public service, where he can continue
to advance the nation’s economic goals.
4. KEY SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
Dr. Iddrisu brings a wealth of skills and competencies that make him an ideal candidate for
a top management role in Ghana’s public service.
Economic & Fiscal Policy Analysis:
• Expertise in conducting macroeconomic policy analysis and forecasting and
providing policy advisory services and economic research to drive national policy
decisions.
• Deep knowledge in designing and implementing fiscal strategies and frameworks,
including the preparation of budgetary documents, fiscal risk analysis, fiscal rules,
fiscal council, and medium-term budget planning.
• Skilled in using data-driven models and tools for economic analysis, forecasting, and
resource allocation.
3
Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking:
• Ability to analyze complex economic and fiscal data to develop innovative solutions
to national and regional challenges.
• Demonstrated capability in using critical thinking to influence policy changes and
optimize economic outcomes.
Leadership and Team Management:
• Proven leadership and team management skills, directing and monitoring staff
performance to ensure high-quality outputs.
• Ability to supervise and guide staff in high-pressure, fast-paced environments while
ensuring top-quality outputs.
• Experience in facilitating cross-functional teams for national and international
projects, including those on fiscal policy and economic management.
Global Collaborations and Negotiations:
• Collaborated with global organizations like the IMF and World Bank, driving
impactful economic policies.
• Extensive experience representing national interests in regional and international
fora, such as the IMF, ECOWAS, and the African Union.
• Proven track record in negotiating key agreements related to fiscal management,
including wage negotiations and international development financing.
Research, Capacity Building and Mentorship:
• Committed to public service and capacity-building, reflected in teaching
engagements and mentorship of numerous officers.
• Strong research background, producing key policy documents, reports, and
economic papers.
• Skilled in use of relevant econometrics software such as E-views and Stata and able
to use Ms-Office packages for policy analysis and presentations.
• Skilled in assessing and designing capacity-building strategies for public institutions,
both domestic and international.
Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of producing clear,
concise, and persuasive reports, policy briefs, and presentations.
• Adept at engaging stakeholders at various levels, including government
agencies, international bodies, and civil society organizations.
4
5. RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE
5.1 Director, Economic Strategy and Research Division (ESRD)
Ministry of Finance, Ghana (April 2019 to Date)
5.1.1 Duties and Responsibilities
As Chief Economics Officer and Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division
(ESRD) at Ghana’s Ministry of Finance, Dr. Iddrisu:
i. Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy Development:
• Leads macro-fiscal policy and risk analysis to provide actionable policy
advice.
• Supervises macroeconomic research on global developments, economic
integration, and growth, emphasizing employment and income distribution.
ii. Sector-Specific Policy Advisory:
• Conducts in-depth policy analysis on energy and petroleum activities across
upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.
iii. Fiscal Strategy and Budget Development:
• Coordinates the preparation of key fiscal documents, including the Fiscal
Strategy Document and the Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review.
• Contributes to the annual Budget Statement and Economic Policy
formulation.
iv. Reporting and Communication:
• Oversees the production of comprehensive economic reports and leads the
publication of monthly updates on Ghana’s economy.
• Establishes and sustains platforms for public and academic engagement on
economic issues, such as the Quarterly Economic Round-Table.
v. Public Sector Wage Negotiation:
• Advises on fiscal implications of wage-related issues and leads negotiations
for wage adjustments.
vi. Team Leadership and Supervision:
• Directs and monitors the performance of ESRD staff, ensuring delivery of
high-quality outputs.
5.1.2 Major Achievements
i. Economic Programme Leadership
• Successfully led Ghana’s technical team in negotiating the US$3 billion IMF
Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Programme in 2023.
• Coordinated technical efforts that enabled the approval of multiple program
reviews, resulting in the rapid release of US$1.92 billion in disbursements
between May 2023 and Dec 2024 and contributing to Ghana’s
macroeconomic stability and recovery.
5
• Coordinated the division’s efforts in managing Ghana’s 2015–2019 IMF ECF
Programme, securing SDR 664.20 million (US$920.58 million) in funding and
achieving successful program completion
ii. Institutional and Policy Innovations
• Established Monthly Economic Updates: Instituted and published seven
monthly economic media updates since March 2024, enhancing
transparency and stakeholder engagement.
• Launched Quarterly Economic Round-Table (QER): Partnered with the
University of Ghana to foster public and academic discussions on economic
issues, with two successful sessions in 2024.
iii. COVID-19 Economic Impact Analysis
• Played a leading role in analyzing and mitigating the economic effects of
COVID-19 in Ghana, culminating in the preparation of 13 critical reports and
Cabinet papers, including briefs to access IMF and World Bank funds totaling
over US$1.4 billion.
iv. Strategic Division Management
• Developed and disseminated organizational and orientation manuals for
ESRD, setting clear responsibilities and improving operational efficiency.
v. Fiscal Policy Development and Reporting
• Prepared and coordinated the finalization and submission to Parliament of
the draft amendment bill on fiscal responsibility rules which introduced a
debt rule and an independent fiscal council to monitor adherence to the
fiscal rules (Oct 2024)
• Led the preparation of Ghana’s Fiscal Strategy Documents, Mid-Year
Reviews, and annual budgets, integrating robust macroeconomic and fiscal
frameworks for the period 2019 to present.
• Drafted the portion of PFM Regulation, 2019 (LI 2378) that legislated the role
of the Division responsible for macro-fiscal policy at the Ministry of Finance
(2019)
• Led the preparation and publication of the earmarked funds review strategy
aimed at streamlining the 16 earmarked funds in Ghana towards improved
operational efficiency and addressing budget rigidities and fiscal space issues
• Produced flagship reports, including:
o Annual Macroeconomic Performance Reports (2018–2023).
o Annual Reports on Petroleum Funds (2019–2023).
o Reconciliation Reports on Petroleum Holding Fund (2018–2023).
o Annual Reports on African Union Levy (2019–2023).
o Fiscal Risks Statements (2018–2023).
6
vi. Public Sector Wage Negotiations
• Facilitated annual negotiations on public sector wage adjustments,
leveraging scenario analysis to guide fiscal decision-making and ensure
equitable outcomes.
vii. Social Partnership Initiative
• Institutionalized the Social Partnership Arrangement in 2019, fostering
dialogue between Organized Labour, the Ghana Employers Association, and
the Government. Coordinated 12 council meetings, producing actionable
policy recommendations.
viii. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing
• Organized over 60 Brown Bag seminars in collaboration with the
International Growth Centre since 2019, offering a platform for research and
policy discussions.
5.2 Director, Economic Research and Forecasting Division (ERFD)
Ministry of Finance, Ghana (April 2013 to 2019)
5.2.1 Duties and Responsibilities
i. Directed macro-fiscal policy research, reviews, and forecasts to support effective
economic management.
ii. Provided robust fiscal risk analyses to inform proactive risk management
strategies.
iii. Supervised the analysis of global and regional economic trends and their
implications for Ghana’s economy.
iv. Coordinated multilateral surveillance missions with institutions such as the IMF,
ECOWAS, and WAMZ, providing analysis and advice on macroeconomic and
economic integration matters.
v. Produced essential economic reports for informed decision-making and public
dissemination.
vi. Oversaw the preparation of key fiscal documents, including the Fiscal Strategy
Document, Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review, and inputs to the national Budget
Statement and Economic Policy.
vii. Led technical teams during government negotiations with organized labor and
employer associations on wage-related matters.
viii. Supervised, mentored, and evaluated staff performance in the Economic
Research and Forecasting Division.
7
5.2.2 Major Achievements
i. Innovations in Policy Documentation and Analysis
• Supervised the preparation of macro-fiscal chapters for key Ministry outputs,
including Budget Statements, Mid-Year Reviews, and the Fiscal Strategy
Document (2013–present).
• Introduced and institutionalized the Annual Macroeconomic Performance
Reports (MPR) since 2014, with consistent publications through 2017.
• Established a comprehensive macroeconomic database (2015) for real-time
updates on fiscal, monetary, and external sector data.
• Initiated the weekly Global Developments Snapshot (2016), providing
concise updates on global economic trends, including commodity prices,
exchange rates, and financial markets.
ii. Leadership in Negotiations and Program Implementation
• Played a pivotal role in negotiating the 2015–2017 IMF Extended Credit
Facility (ECF) Programme, contributing to six successful reviews and program
completion.
• Directed wage negotiations for Base Pay and National Daily Minimum Wage
adjustments (2013–2019), utilizing scenario analyses to inform fiscal
strategies.
iii. Capacity Building and Institutional Development
• Led the development and operationalization of a Financial Programming
Policies (FPP) Model for macroeconomic policy analysis, complemented by a
published textbook and user manual (2018).
• Coordinated the establishment of the Ghana Economic Policy Analysis and
Research Institute (GEPARI) with US$1.5 million funding from ACBF,
enhancing policy research and analysis capacity for state and non-state
actors.
• Created and implemented a comprehensive organizational structure for the
Economic Research and Forecasting Division, defining the vision, mission,
objectives, and staff responsibilities.
iv. Knowledge Sharing and Stakeholder Engagement
• Founded the Brown-Bag Policy Seminar Series (2015) in collaboration with
the International Growth Centre, coordinating 18 seminars on topical
economic issues.
• Represented Ghana’s interests at high-level international forums, including
those of the World Bank, IMF, AU, AfDB, ECOWAS, WAMZ, and WAMA.
8
v. Mentorship and Training
• Trained and mentored numerous officers, many of whom have advanced to
leadership roles in various organizations.
• Conducted institutional needs assessments and facilitated the establishment
of research and policy analysis units in Liberia and The Gambia.
5.3 Director (Ag), Real Sector Division (Sept 2010 to April 2013)
Economic Planning Division (Aug 2008 to Sept 2010)
5.3.1 Duties and Responsibilities:
i. Sectoral Policy Analysis and Forecasting
• Conducted in-depth policy analysis and forecasts for key sectors of the
economy, including Agriculture, Industry, and Services, to inform decisionmaking.
• Monitored and evaluated the performance of critical sectors to ensure
alignment with the nation’s desired economic growth trajectory.
ii. Petroleum Revenue Management
• Provided policy advice and conducted forecasts on petroleum revenue,
ensuring effective management and allocation in line with national priorities.
iii. Wage and Wage-Related Negotiations
• Advised on wage and related policy issues, taking a leading role in
negotiations with labor unions and employer associations to ensure fair and
sustainable wage policies.
iv. Budget and Economic Policy Support
• Played an active role in the preparation and implementation of the annual
Budget Statement and Government Economic Policies, providing vital inputs
for macroeconomic planning.
v. Team Leadership and Staff Management
• Supervised and monitored the performance of staff within the Economic
Planning Division, ensuring high productivity and alignment with
departmental goals.
• Led the preparation and timely submission of periodic economic reports to
senior management for informed decision-making.
5.3.2 Major Achievements:
i. Development of Economic Models and Forecasting
• Developed and operationalized a growth model for projecting medium-term
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and its components, with successful
application in the 2009–2012 Budget Statements.
ii. Petroleum Revenue Management Legislation
9
• Played a key role in the preparation of the Petroleum Revenue Management
Bill, which culminated in the passing of the Petroleum Revenue Management
Act (Act 815) in 2011.
iii. Petroleum Revenue Forecasting
• Developed and operationalized a petroleum revenue forecasting model in
compliance with Act 815 for projecting Benchmark Revenue (BR). This model
was successfully used to project petroleum revenue for 2011, 2012, and
2013, directly informing the annual Budgets for those years.
iv. Petroleum Revenue Transparency and Accountability
• Supervised the preparation, publication, and gazetting of quarterly reports
on petroleum receipts for 2011 and 2012, in compliance with Section 6 of the
Petroleum Revenue Management Act (PRMA).
v. Annual Report on Petroleum Revenue
• Led the preparation and publication of the inaugural 2012 Annual Report on
Petroleum Revenue Management, ensuring transparency and compliance
with the PRMA.
6. BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIPS
Dr. Iddrisu’s leadership roles across various boards and committees highlight his extensive
involvement in public policy, economic management, and strategic governance, ensuring
his continued influence in shaping Ghana’s economic strategies and initiatives.
1. Board of Public Procurement Authority
Position: Member | Period: 2022 – 2024
2. Board of Vodafone Ghana Mobile Financial Services Limited
Position: Member | Period: February 2021 – 2024
3. Steering Committee on National Unemployment Insurance Scheme (NUIS) &
Training/Retraining Programmes
Position: Member | Period: October 2020 – Present
4. Social Partnership Council
Position: Secretary | Period: 2019 – 2024
5. National Designated Authority for Ghana – Green Climate Fund
Position: Focal Point | Period: 2019 – 2024
6. Fiscal Risks Committee
Position: Member | Period: 2020 – Present
10
7. Economic Policy Coordinating Committee (EPCC)
Position: Secretary | Period: 2019 – Present
8. ECOWAS National Coordinating Committee – Ghana
Position: Chairman | Period: 2013 – Present
9. Public Investment Programme Working Committee
Position: Member | Period: May 2021 – Present
10. Technical Committee on National Unemployment Insurance Scheme (NUIS) &
Training/Retraining Programmes
Position: Member | Period: October 2020 – Present
11. Technical Committee on “Bridging Gap between the National Daily Minimum Wage
and the Single Spine Base Pay”
Position: Chairman | Period: July 2016
12. Technical Advisory Team of the 40-Year Long-Term Development Plan
Position: Member | Period: August 2015 – 2020
13. Compensations Committee
Position: Member | Period: January 2014 – 2020
14. National Accounts Committee
Position: Member | Period: 2015 – 2020
15. IMF Programme Negotiation Committee
Position: Member | Period: August 2014 – April 2015
7. CONSULTANCIES AND SHORT-TERM ENGAGEMENTS
1. Facilitator
Course: Regional Course on Medium-Term Budgetary Frameworks, Budget Planning,
Execution & Procurement, Lagos, Nigeria | Dates: 20th – 22nd August 2024
2. Facilitator
Course: WAIFEM Regional Course on Fiscal Frameworks and Sustainability in West
African Countries | Dates: 10th – 21st October 2022
11
3. Facilitator
Course: UG-Economics Department Course on Petroleum Revenue Management and
Allocation, University of Ghana, Accra | Date: 8th September 2022
4. Facilitator
Course: WAIFEM Regional Course on Macro-Fiscal Framework for Medium-Term
Budgeting and Planning, Abuja, Nigeria | Dates: 15th – 19th August 2022
5. Facilitator
Course: WAIFEM Regional Course on Macroeconomic and Public Financial
Management: Debt, Budgeting, Planning & Performance | Dates: June 11th – 22nd,
2018
6. Lead Consultant
Engagement: Policy and Capacity Needs Assessment of the Ministry of Finance and
Development Planning in Liberia, Monrovia| Dates: April – May 2018
7. Facilitator
Course: Regional Training Workshop on Principles of Effective Financial Governance in
ECOWAS Monetary Zone, WAIFEM, National Institute for Legislative Studies, ACBF,
Accra Ghana | Dates: 12th – 16th March 2018
8. Consultant
Engagement: Consultancy for UNDP, Liberia to Assess and Identify Needs for Setting
Up a Research & Policy Advisory Unit in Liberia’s Ministry of Finance & Development
Planning, Monrovia, Liberia | Date: August 2017
9. Consultant
Engagement: Capacity Needs Assessment of the Ministry of Finance and Economic
Affairs of The Gambia, Banjul| Date: September 2017
10. Lead Consultant
Project: Preparation of the “Country Profile: Ghana” Report for the United Nations
Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Accra, Ghana | Date: September 2015
11. Discussant
Event: Discussion on “Standard Chartered Bank’s Socio-Economic Impact Report”
Organizers: Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Ghana and Standard Chartered Bank
Ghana Ltd, IEA, Accra, Ghana | Date: 3rd March 2014
12. Resource Person
Topic: “The New Macroeconomic Environment in Ghana and Medium-Term Prospects”
Event: Strategic Session of Fidelity Bank Ghana Ltd, Accra, Ghana | Date: 4th February
2016
12
13. Resource Person
Topic: “Outlook of the Economy of Ghana 2016-2018 and Key Measures Agreed with
the IMF”
Event: Standard Bank 2015 Board Strategic Session, Accra, Ghana | Date: 13th August
2015
14. Resource Person
Topic: “Petroleum Revenue Management in Ghana”
Event: Monthly Seminar Series of Economic Policy Management (EPM) Programme,
University of Ghana, Accra | Date: April 2013
15. Resource Person
Topic: “Mechanics of Fiscal Budget Preparation: Experiences of Ghana”
Event: Monthly Seminar Series of Economic Policy Management (EPM) Programme,
University of Ghana, Accra | Date: 27th May 2010
8. TEACHING AND ACADEMIC ENGAGEMENTS
1. Part-Time Lecturer
Courses: Economic Policies and Development & Applied Research and Quantitative
Methods
Institution: School of Governance, Leadership, and Public Management, Ghana
Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), February 2007 – 2009
2. Part-Time Lecturer
Course: Econometrics
Organizer: Capacity building exercise organized by JICA, Ghana, and the Ministry of
Finance and Economic Planning, Ghana on Macroeconomic Policy Tools
Venue: Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Ghana, Oct – Dec 2006
3. Part-Time Lecturer
Course: Quantitative Techniques and Economics
Institution: ACCA Study School, Accra, Ghana, Sep 1996 – 2002
4. Teaching and Research Assistant
Duties: Organized tutorials, marked exam scripts, assisted in research activities
including data collection, data analysis, and report writing
Department: Statistics Department, University of Ghana, Legon, Sep 1996 – 1997
13
9. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES, SEMINARS, AND WORKSHOPS
Dr. Iddrisu’s extensive participation in international conferences and seminars highlights his
leadership in key economic forums, steering influential policy decisions and fostering regional
and international collaborations. Key ones in recent times include:
1. 5
th Extraordinary Session of the AU STC, Abuja, Nigeria, Abuja, 26th – 30th Nov 2024
2. 2024 IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings, Washington DC, USA, 21st
-30th Oct 2024
3. 2024 WAMA Mid-Year Meetings, Dakar, Senegal, 25th – 31st Jul 2024
4. Official Creditor Committee (OCC) and Eurobond Negotiations, Paris, France, 2
nd – 8
th
Jul 2024
5. Official Creditor Committee (OCC) Negotiation, Beijing, China, 14th
-21st Jun 2024
6. Launch of ECO- 2nd High Level Cttee Meeting, Lagos, Nigeria, 27th – 31st May 2024
7. Bank Meeting in London – Cocoa Purchases, London, UK, 29th Apr – 3
rd May 2024
8. 2024 IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings, Washington DC, USA, 15th – 26th Apr 2024
9. 51st Meeting of the Convergence Council Meeting: WAMZ 2023 End Year Meetings,
Abuja, Nigeria, 7
th – 8
th Mar 2024
10. Courtesy Visit to France, Paris, France, 2
nd – 5
th Mar 2024
11. ECOWAS Meeting – Guinea Bissau, 23–27 January 2023
12. West Africa Monetary Zone (WAMZ) Meeting, Gambia, 1–10 Feb 2023
13. Management Board of Special Fund Meeting, Côte d’Ivoire, 27 Feb–1 Mar 2023
14. UNECA Meeting, Ethiopia, 15–23 March 2023
15. IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings, USA, 11–21 April 2023
16. Annual Meetings of the AFDB Group, Egypt, 22–26 May 2023
17. ECOWAS Council of Ministers Meeting, Guinea Bissau, 5–7 July 2023
18. Investor Relations Meeting, London, UK, 16–18 October 2023
19. ECOWAS Council of Ministers Meeting, Abuja, Nigeria, 5–9 December 2023
20. IMF World Bank Spring Meetings, USA, 19–29 April 2022
21. UNECA Meeting, Senegal, 11–18 May 2022
22. ECOWAS Meeting on Single Currency, Nigeria, 8–10 June 2022
23. IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meeting, USA, 10–21 October 2022
24. ECOWAS Council of Ministers Meeting, Nigeria, 1–5 December 2022
25. Senior Officials Meeting, Abuja, Nigeria, 6-8
th Apr 2021
26. ECOWAS Meeting, Lome, Togo, 2
nd – 12th Aug 2021
27. ECOWAS Meetings, Abuja, Nigeria (31st Aug-3
rd Sep 2021, 24th Nov -3
rd Dec 2021, and
8
th Dec – 13th Dec 2021)
28. AU Specialized Technical Committee (STC) Meeting, Cameroon, 7–8 Mar 2019
29. 2019 Eurobond Deal Roadshow, UK and USA, 13th – 20th Mar 2020
30. UNECA Meeting, Morocco, 25–26 March 2019
31. IMF World Bank Spring Meetings, USA, 8–18 Apr 2019
32. Annual Meetings of the AfDB Boards of Governors – Guinea Bissau, 10–13 June 2019
33. Meeting of the Governing Council of IDEP – Senegal, 17–26 June 2019
34. Green Climate Fund Programming Conference – Republic of Korea, 19–23 August 2019
14
35. Annual Meetings of the World Bank and IMF – USA, 14–23 October 2019
36. ECOWAS Council of Ministers Meeting, Nigeria, 17–20 Dec 2019
37. Joint Meeting of Heads of ECOWAS National Offices & Planning Experts on ECOWAS
Post Vision 2020, Saly, Senegal, 13th – 17th Aug 2018
38. Joint Meeting of AU F15 Technical and the PRC Sub-committee on General Supervision
and Coordination of Budgetary, Financial and Administrative Matters, Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia, 7th – 10th Aug2018
39. AU F15 Technical Meeting on AU Scale of Assessment and Contributions, Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia, 10th Aug2018
40. 53rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government
and the 6th Meeting of the Presidential Task Force
Venue: Lome, Togo | Dates: 30th – 31st Jul 2018
41. 53rd Annual Board Meeting of the African Development Bank Group, Busan, South
Korea, 20th – 29th May 2018
42. 2018 Deal Eurobond Roadshow, London, New York, Boston, 2nd – 11th May 2018
43. 2018 IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings, Washington DC, 14th – 27th Apr 2018
44. Non-Deal Roadshow and Investor Relations Meetings in Japan, Tokyo, Japan, 6th – 13th
Apr 2018
10. ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
1. PhD in International Development Studies
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), Tokyo, Japan (2003 – 2006)
2. Master of Arts in International Development Studies
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), Tokyo, Japan (2002 – 2003)
3. MPhil in Economics
University of Ghana, Legon (1997 – 1999)
4. Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Economics and Statistics
University of Ghana, Legon (1992 – 1996)
11. SELECTED TRAINING PROGRAMMES
4.1 Leadership and Management
i. Strategic Decision Making for Managers: London School of Economics Executive
Education, London (Nov 2024).
ii. Driving Government Performance: Leadership Strategies that Produce Results:
Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Boston, USA (Sept 2018).
15
iii. Making Corporate Boards More Effective: Harvard Business School, Boston, USA
(Nov 2015).
iv. Leadership Development Series:
▪ Coaching & Mentoring for Improved Work Performance (Sept 2021).
▪ Managerial Planning & Goal Setting (May 2021).
▪ The Leader and His Team (Feb 2021).
▪ Communicating Effectively for Business Success (Jan 2021).
▪ Managing Conflict in the Workplace (Aug 2020).
▪ Emotional Intelligence (July 2020).
4.2 Macroeconomics, Forecasting, and Policy
v. Regional Course on Intermediate Modelling and Forecasting for Policy Analysis for
Senior Economists and Directors of Research: WAIFEM, Virtual (Mar 2023).
vi. Macro-Economic Model Training Development Programme: Norway, 17–26 June
2019
vii. Forecasting in Macroeconomics and Finance: IMF Institute, Washington, D.C., USA
(May 2012).
4.3 Oil, Gas, and Energy
viii. Oil & Gas – Business Environment and Finance: LCT International, London (Dec
2024).
ix. Advanced Oil Trading Orientation: Oxford Princeton Programme, Houston, Texas,
USA (Nov 2012).
4.4 Performance Management
x. Performance Management Workshop: Ghana Institute of Management and Public
Administration (GIMPA), Accra, Ghana (Mar 2012).
12. PAPERS, REPORTS, AND ARTICLES
Dr. Iddrisu has authored several papers and reports on wage policy, development economics, and
public finance. His work includes analyses of minimum wage policies, studies on industrial
development in sub-Saharan Africa, and examinations of economic convergence criteria. He has
published in journals like World Development and produced policy reports for government
ministries, covering topics from entrepreneurial skills to public sector pay policy.
16
13. AWARDS
Dr. Iddrisu’s consistent excellence in service and leadership has earned him numerous prestigious
awards, reflecting his commitment to public service, academic achievement, and contribution to
economic development. The awards include:
i. 2024: Recognition award from Minister for Finance for excellence in macroeconomic policy
management
ii. 2023: Recognition and Excellence award from Head of Service, Office of Head of Civil Service
iii. 2022: Overall Best Director in the Ghana Civil Service
iv. 2020: Most Responsive Division in the Ministry of Finance
v. 2020: Overall Best Director in the Ghana Civil Service
vi. 2019: Overall Best Director in the Ghana Civil Service
vii. 2019: Recognition Award from the Minister for Finance for outstanding contribution to the
impact of Covid-19 on Ghana’s economy
viii. 2018: Overall Best Director in the Ghana Civil Service
ix. 2018: Best Division Award – Economic Research and Forecasting Division
x. 2017: Best Director of the Year Award (Responsive, Ethical, Efficient, Professional)
xi. 2016: Recognition Award from WAIFEM for outstanding service as a facilitator
xii. 2009: “Alumnus of the Month” Award from National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies
(GRIPS)
xiii. 2006: PhD dissertation received the highest marks in GRIPS history
xiv. 2003-2006: JICA Scholarship for PhD in International Development Studies, GRIPS
xv. 2002-2003: JICA Scholarship for Master’s in International Development Studies, GRIPS
xvi. 2002: Best Civil Servant in the Ministry of Finance
xvii. 1997-1998: University of Ghana Scholarship for Master’s program
14. RESEARCH INTEREST
• Macroeconomic Policy/Management;
• Empirical Research
• Economic and Statistical Modelling;
• Public Finance Management;
• Real Sector Issues;
• Poverty Issues; and
• Cluster-Based Industrial Development

3 Chinese, 2 Ghanaians Arrested For Galamsey

0

The suspects

 

The Central North Regional Police Command is leaving no stone unturned to nib illegal mining (galamsey) activities in the area in the bud.

The Command has, therefore, embarked on series of anti-galamsey operations, one of which led to the arrest of five persons.

The five suspects, included three Chinese nationals and two Ghanaians.

They were allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities on River Fum at Assin Ayitey, a farming community near Assin Akonfudi in the Assin North Constituency of the Central Region.

The names of the suspects were given as Ma Jian, aged 37, Ma Young, 31 and Ma Haibi,  54. The rest were Duut Kwabena Sakakba, 38 and Douglas Nyamekye, 36.

A statement issued by the Central North Regional Police Command and signed by ASP Francis Onyina, at the Public Affairs Directorate, noted that the suspects who are currently in custody are being processed to appear before the court to face justice.

The statement said during the operation, two excavators were found being used at the site.

ASP Onyina indicated that although the operators managed to flee with the ignition keys, efforts were underway to move the machines to a secure holding area.

He added that police are actively working to trace the owners of the excavators, so they can also be held accountable.

“During the operation, two excavators with chassis numbers SY 6HK1-XABEA-01-C3 and SWE365EOO762 were identified being used at the site by the miners.

“Notwithstanding the fact that the operators of the excavators bolted with the ignition keys, efforts are underway to get the excavators to a holding place,” the police disclosed.

Meanwhile, “the owners of the excavator machines would be traced to face justice as well,” the statement pointed out.

ASP Onyina also mentioned that a Toyota Hilux pickup with registration number GE 2743-13 was discovered at the site and has been impounded by the police.

The police also emphasised their determination to clamp down on illegal mining, and assured the public that all those found culpable would be made to face the full rigours of the law.

From Emmanuel Opoku, Takoradi

Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union laments board interference in rural banks

0

The General Secretary of the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU), Ghana, Mr. Morgan Ayawine, has expressed serious concerns over growing interference by board chairmen in the operations of Rural and Community Banks across the country.

Speaking at the ICU Upper West Regional Conference held in Wa on April 7, 2025, Mr. Ayawine described the governance practices in these banks as a major deviation from standard corporate governance principles.

He warned that such interference poses a threat to effective administration and labour relations.

General Secretary of the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU), Ghana, Mr. Morgan Ayawine

According to him, many board chairmen of Rural and Community Banks are increasingly usurping the responsibilities of management by issuing query letters to staff and, in some cases, signing termination and dismissal letters.

“This is a great cause for concern,” he emphasized, adding that these actions go against best practices in labor relations.

“The role of the Board of Directors is entirely distinct from that of Management,” Mr. Ayawine stated.

“While boards are mandated to formulate major policies, it is the responsibility of management to handle day-to-day operations, including employment matters, staff discipline, training, and collective bargaining.”

He cautioned that when board members overstep their boundaries, it creates confusion, disrupts industrial harmony, and weakens confidence in governance systems.

He urged for urgent reforms to align the governance structure of Rural and Community Banks with generally accepted corporate governance practices in Ghana.

Touching on the theme of the conference, Mr. Ayawine called on the Regional Council to develop resolutions on pressing socio-economic issues that would stand the test of time.

He urged delegates to take an active role in deliberations and decision-making as the conference served as a prelude to the Union’s 12th Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference.

On union-management relations, the ICU boss stressed the need for mutual respect and cooperation between labour and employers.

He said businesses are inherently democratic in structure and require the joint effort of capital and labour to thrive.

“Capital alone cannot produce and earn profit, just as labour alone cannot operate and earn income. It is only through a balanced partnership that businesses can become productive and profitable,” he noted.

Mr. Ayawine reaffirmed ICU’s commitment to championing the rights of workers and promoting strong industrial relations for national development.

 

FDA launches nationwide swoop to combat rising opioid abuse

 

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

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

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

Sports Minister donates GHC 27,500 towards surgery of brain tumor victim   

0

By Kingsley Mamore

Dambai (O/R) April 13, GNA – Mr. Kofi Adams, the Sports Minister and Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency, has supported 18-year-old, Susana Ampadu Nimo, diagnosed with a brain tumor.   

Mr Adams donated GHC 27,500 to support Susana’s life-saving surgery.  

The donation was made in response to an appeal from the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where Susana is receiving treatment.  

The funds will help cover the costs of her implant, medical procedure, laboratory tests, and medication.  

Mr Adams extended his best wishes to Susana for a successful surgery and encouraged her family to remain hopeful, trusting in God’s guidance and protection.  

The donation was presented on behalf the sports Minister by Mr. Eric Adom, Buem Constituency Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).  

GNA 

MA/CA 

Oti Regional Minister pledges to solve water crisis

0

By Kingsley Mamore

Dambai (O/R), April 13, GNA – The Oti Regional Minister, Mr. John Kwadjo Gyapong, has committed to addressing the water crisis in various communities across the region.  

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) after his familiarization tour during which Mr Gyapong witnessed water challenges in many communities, prompting his pledge to find solutions. 

The Minister’s tour allowed him to grasp the difficulties faced by different constituencies, enabling him to develop targeted solutions to tackle the water crisis. 

 This commitment is part of his broader efforts to drive development and improve living standards in the Oti Region. 

Notably, during a courtesy call on the chiefs and people of Nkwanta North, the Paramount Chief of Kpassa Traditional Area, Ubor Tassan Konja VI, urged the Minister to solution the perennial water challenge in Kpassa township. 

The Paramount chief highlighted the struggles women and students face in accessing potable water. 

Ubor Konja VI explained that women in the area spend a significant amount of time collecting water, taking away their productive hours and impacting their economic potential. 

The chief said women bear the primary responsibility for water collection, which affected their daily routines and economic activities. 

He further said students also struggled daily to access clean water, impacting their education and overall well-being. 

Ubor Konja VI urged the government to connect water from Oti Damanko River to Kpassa and its environs. 

GNA 

MA/CA 

“Canada Is Ready For Diaspora Property Expo Next Month”

0

From left: Paul Cudjoe – Ag. Head of Missions, Ghana Embassy Washington DC, Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, Dr. Movita- Former Pennsylvania State Representative; Hon. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei; Col. Raj Kalra, Chairman, Kuber Group Africa; Verus Nartey- Executive Director, DPE

 

The Consul-General of the Ghana Consulate in Toronto, Mr. Peter Kobina Taylor, has assured Ghanaians and property enthusiasts in Canada that all was ready to host an exciting Canada edition of the Diaspora Property Expo, the highly anticipated exhibition and conference, which is scheduled for 24th and 25th May, 2025 at the Delta Hotels Toronto Airport & Conference Centre at 655 Dixon Rd, Etobicoke, Toronto.

Speaking as the host of the official launch of the Canada edition of DPE25, at the premises of the Ghana Consulate in Toronto, he hinted that “the expo‘s mission is to strengthen ties between Ghana and the Canadian diaspora while promoting sustainable and community-driven developments in Ghana”.

So far, over eighteen (18) top Ghanaian real estate developers have confirmed to participate in the highly anticipated Diaspora Property Expo Canada 2025, according to Julz Ossom, CEO of Canada-based Aim 2 Impact. “The big-name exhibitors expected at the Toronto event, amongst others, include Lakeside Estate, Goldkey Properties, Devtraco, JL Properties, Nestas Homes, Waylead Ghana, Prabon Homes, Clifton Homes, Blackrock Developers etc.”

Verus Nartey- Executive Director, Diaspora Property Expo

According to the executive director of the project, Mr. Verus Nartey, the Diaspora Property Expo Canada 2025, would offer wonderful and lively networking sessions where attendees would have the chance to engage with developers, financial institutions, fellow investors, government officials and other stakeholders.

The delegation from Ghana will include top government officials and leaders of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA). It will be led by the Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei.

According to Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, key reasons for his Ministry’s collaboration with this project are “to showcase opportunities for foreign and domestic investment in the real estate sector; to highlight government initiatives and projects while addressing Ghana’s housing needs, and finally to foster collaborations between government and private developers to drive infrastructure growth”, per message delivered at the Canada Launch.

Peter Kobina-Taylor- Consul General, Ghana Consulate, Toronto

In his message, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei described Ghana’s real estate landscape as “evolving” and recognized the diaspora as a key partner in shaping its future.

“Through initiatives like DPE 2025, we are building a bridge that connects the diaspora with verified, credible, and strategic property investment opportunities in Ghana. We invite you our brothers and sisters in Canada to take advantage of this platform and let’s work together to build not just homes but a legacy of prosperity for generations to come,” the Minister who was in Philadelphia last month for the United States leg of DPE 2025, added.

DPE 2025 is designed for Ghanaians in the diaspora to explore property ownership and investment opportunities in Ghana. The United States edition of DPE was held at the 1735 Market Street in Philadelphia on March 21-23, 2025. After a successful Pennsylvania event, the attention has now been turned to the Canada edition,

Diaspora Property Expo Canada 2025 is being organized by Aim 2 Impact, Diaspora Property Investment Ltd, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Aim 2 Impact, Made in Ghana Consulting Ltd, Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Ghana High Commission in Ottawa, Ghana Consulate in Toronto and other partners.

In all, some 21 speakers will feature in the Toronto event; They include:

DPE Board Chairman and King of Abeadze, Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII; Col. Raj Kalra- Chairman of Kuber Group Africa; Mr. Simon Atieku- Head of Mission, Ghana High Commission to Canada; and Dr. James Orleans-Lindsay- Current President of GREDA.

Other speakers will include Mark McLaughlin, an experienced mortgage broker of Mor Mortgages; Mr. Odoi Yemoh- President of the Ghanaian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (GCCC), Chedwick Crieghtney- CEO Gold Pill Hroup; Jasmine Lee- Broker with EXP Realty Brokerage; Mr. Salah Kweku Kalmoni- Executive Director of Lakeside Estate and a council member of the GREDA and many more

Diaspora Property Expo Canada 2025 is sponsored by Delta Airlines, Dover Company Ltd, KennieDecor; Track Plant Construction Ltd, Catch Sun Enterprise; Spotless Tour Company, Build Haap Ghana Ltd, Valcom Kingdom Express and Signum Development

Pharmaceutical Society vows to sanction members over illicit opioid trade

0

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana has issued a strong warning that it will not hesitate to suspend the licences of any member found engaging in the illicit trade of opioids.

The abuse of opioids has become a growing concern, prompting the government to launch a nationwide clampdown aimed at protecting the country’s human resources.

Speaking to journalists on April 11, the President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, Dr. Samuel Donkor, said the Society takes the menace seriously and is prepared to crack the whip on any member involved in the illegal trade of opioids even as it steps up public education efforts.

“As for the regulatory arm, I can assure you that the pharmacy council will spare no one who is found to be involved in this illicit drug dealing. If you are a community pharmacy, a wholesaler and you are found to be dealing in such products, your licence will be withdrawn or revoked.

“If you are a pharmacist, you will also get your licence suspended. It is something we have zero tolerance for. Anybody who is found to be involved in this illegal drug trade in the country, we will deal with them accordingly,” he said.

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

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

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

Government has made available GH¢300m to buy 12 million free sanitary towels for girls – Kwakye Ofosu

0

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications

The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has stated that the government is taking decisive steps to curb truancy among girls of school going age, because of the lack of hygiene items.

He made this remark while speaking about the NDC’s first three months in power, on Pan African TV’s Talk Time, on April 12, 2025.

He disclosed that the government has allocated GH¢300 million to purchase 12 million pieces of sanitary towels to be shared to female students in deprived communities.

“About GH¢300 million has been set aside to purchase about 12 million pieces of sanitary towels to share to girls in needy areas,” he said.

He explained that the intervention has become necessary because they realised that a lot of girls of school going age skipped school because they couldn’t afford sanitary pads.

“One of the issues that have affected girls in puberty is the problem where young girls stay away from school because they cannot afford hygiene items.

“It became a problem and research showed that they were in their thousands, and that it was not an isolated problem of a few. So, significant amount of money, about GH¢300 million, was set aside to purchase about 12 million pieces of sanitary towels to share to girls in needy areas,” he said.

Kwakye Ofosu further explained that he believes the intervention would solve the problem which has become a hindrance to education of young female students.

VPO/AE

Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, where children were sold in exchange for kitchenware, others, below:

Freezy MacBones ‘steals’ the show at launch event in Germany

0

MacBones (R) signing a card to a fan MacBones (R) signing a card to a fan

Ghanaian boxer, Seth Gyimah, popularly known as Freezy MacBones, stole the spotlight on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the launch of a new sportswear clothing brand in Germany, drawing a wave of excitement from fans and fellow athletes alike.

Known for his charismatic personality and powerful presence both in and out of the ring, Freezy arrived in style and was quickly surrounded by admirers eager to meet him. 

The event, which brought together top names in the fitness world and the sportswear industry, turned into an unforgettable evening as MacBones interacted with fans, posed for photos, and engaged in lively conversations with fellow boxers.

In videos shared by MacBones on his Instagram page, the boxer is seen dancing to some tunes. 

 

He then proceeded to throw some of the clothes to the fans, while addressing them as they cheered his name.

His energy, style, and undeniable star power made him one of the standout figures of the night.

The boxer’s four-month-old son, Quincy Paris, secured a major contract with the Paris modeling agency Success Kids in March 2025.

Watch the video of the event below :

FKA/AE

You can also watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below:

Sudan camp residents shelter from attacks

0

Zamzam camp hosts 1000s of thousands of people, who are living in famine-like conditions Zamzam camp hosts 1000s of thousands of people, who are living in famine-like conditions

Devastating attacks on a camp hosting hundreds of thousands of people who had fled Sudan’s civil war have continued for a third day, residents have told the BBC.

One person in the Zamzam camp described the situation as “extremely catastrophic” while another said things were “dire”.

More than 100 civilians, among them at least 20 children and a medical team, have been killed in a series of assaults that began late last week in Sudan’s western Darfur region, the UN has said.

The attacks – on the city of el Fasher and two nearby camps – have been blamed on the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). It has said reports of atrocities were fabricated.

The camps, Zamzam and Abu Shouk, provide temporary homes to more than 700,000 people, many of whom are facing famine-like conditions.

News of the attacks comes on the eve of the second anniversary of the civil war between the RSF and the army.

The UN’s humanitarian co-ordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, said she was “appalled and gravely alarmed” by reports of what had happened.

“This represents yet another deadly and unacceptable escalation in a series of brutal attacks on displaced people and aid workers,” she added in a statement.

Aid organisation Relief International said nine of its workers “were mercilessly killed including doctors, referral drivers and a team leader” in the attack on Zamzam.

The charity, which said it was the last provider of critical health services in the camp, alleged RSF fighters were to blame.

“We understand that this was a targeted attack on all health infrastructure in the region to prevent access to healthcare for internally displaced people.

“We are horrified that one of our clinics was also part of this attack – along with other health facilities in el-Fasher.”

In a statement released on Saturday, the RSF said it was not responsible for attacks on civilians and that scenes of killing in Zamzam were staged to discredit its forces.

Contacting the BBC on Sunday morning, one Zamzam resident who works at a community kitchen providing food for those in the camp, said “a large number of young people” had been killed.

“Those who were working in the community kitchen have been killed, and the doctors who were part of the initiative to reopen the hospital were also killed,” Mustafa, 34, said in a WhatsApp audio message.

“My uncle and my cousin were killed. People are wounded, and there is no medicine or hospital to save them – they are dying from bleeding.

“The shelling is still ongoing, and we are expecting more attacks in the morning.”

He added that all routes out of the camp were closed and it was “surrounded from all four directions”.

Another resident, Wasir, said that “nothing [was] left in Zamzam”.

“A large number of civilians have fled, and we are still trying to leave, but we haven’t succeeded, all the roads are blocked, and we have children with us.

“Death is everywhere. As I speak to you now from inside the trench, there is shelling happening.”

Assessing satellite images, a team of specialists at Yale University in the US said on Friday that “this attack conservatively represents the most significant ground-based attack on Zamzam… since fighting erupted in the el-Fasher area in spring of 2024”.

The Yale School of Public Health’s Humanitarian Research Lab said it had observed that “arson attacks have burned multiple structures and significant areas of the camp in the center, south, and southeast portions of the camp”.

The war – a power struggle between the army and the RSF – has created the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, forcing more than 12 million people from their homes and pushing communities into hunger.

It began on 15 April 2023, after the leaders of the army and RSF fell out over the political future of the country.

El-Fasher is the last major town in Darfur under army control and has been under siege by the RSF for a year.

Iron Boy’ Album means more to me than any award – Blacko

0

Ghanaian musician Black Sherif has said that winning a Grammy or the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) Artiste of the Year title does not compare to the personal satisfaction he gets from his latest album, Iron Boy.

In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the 23-year-old explained that although he appreciates recognition for his work, true success for him is defined by the emotional connection people have with his music.

BeezTrap, Empress Gifty, others wow at TGMA nominees Xperience Concert

0

It is often said: give gospel artistes a stage and a band, and leave the rest to them—nine times out of ten, they will deliver a performance worth your time and attention.

That’s exactly what Empress Gifty did in living colour at the TGMA Nominees Xperience Concert, held at the Takoradi Mall last week Saturday.

The turnout was massive, the anticipation palpable. From the moment Empress and her band mounted the stage, it was clear that something special was about to unfold—and she didn’t disappoint. Song after song, she dazzled the large and lively crowd. Her command over the band, her effortless connection with the audience, and her choice of songs (including well-loved melodies and choruses that weren’t her own) all contributed to a captivating performance. She brought it all to a crescendo with her latest single, Watch Me, in a truly virtuoso display.

Hers was one of the standout performances on a night filled with stellar displays by some of Ghana’s finest. For Takoradi residents, it was a much-needed reminder of the magic of live performances, and the TGMA Nominees Xperience Concert—with its star-studded lineup—was the perfect catalyst.

Now, let’s talk about BeezTrap KOTM.

Sure, I knew the young man and was familiar with his collaborations with the likes of Sarkodie and Tulenke. But I must confess—I wasn’t deeply acquainted with him as a performer. That changed in Takoradi. His stage presence was electrifying, his confidence was so HIGH even Bob Marley would have been proud. One hit after another, he delivered with infectious energy. What amazed me most was the crowd’s enthusiastic response, even to tracks you wouldn’t expect them to know. They rapped and sang along with passion—it was inspiring.

That night, I became fully convinced that BeezTrap KOTM deserved his nomination in the Best New Artiste of the Year category and I was proud of the TGMA board for recognizing his talent. On my drive back to Accra the following day, I searched BeezTrap KOTM on Spotify and listened to his entire catalogue—some tracks on repeat—until I got home.

Other acts also left lasting impressions. Jupitar, as always, commanded the stage with his signature live band energy. Kwaw Kese brought his iconic “abodam” vibe, thrilling the crowd with timeless hits and sealing the moment with his current smash, Awoyo Osofo. Sista Afia charmed the audience with her presence and strong show(wo)manship. Kuami Eugene was his usual vibrant self—effervescent, dynamic, and crowd-friendly, dishing out one banger after another. King Paluta delivered a solid set anchored by recent hits like Makoma and the TGMA’s Most Popular Song-nominated Aseda.

And then came Takoradi’s own Kofi Kinaata to bring it all home. He warned everyone—those in the crowd and viewers watching on TV across the country—that his performance would be a lengthy one. And indeed, it was. But the crowd had waited patiently for his set, and he rewarded them with a hit-packed finale that left everyone satisfied.

It was an unforgettable night of music and energy in Takoradi, filled with excitement, fan love, and performances that lit up the venue. And Empress Gifty, in particular, emerged as a worthy ambassador for gospel music, delivering a show that reminded us just how powerful the genre can be.

The TGMA Nominees Xperience Concert serves as the perfect precursor to the main event. As nominees intensify their campaigns and fans rally support, the stage is set for another unforgettable night on May 10th. If the energy in Takoradi is anything to go by, we’re in for a thrilling celebration of Ghanaian music at the TGMA.

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.

Mahama launches Feed Ghana Programme as country spends $2b on food imports

0








Mahama launches Feed Ghana Programme as country spends $2b on food imports – Ghana Business News




















Works & Housing Minister, Others To Grace Diaspora Property Expo In Canada Next Month

0

 

A number of personalities, including Honourable Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, will grace the 2025 Diaspora Property Expo in Canada next month.

The Minister, according to organisers, will lead a delegation made-up of government official, and top Ghanaian real estate stakeholders to participate in the Diaspora Property Expo Canada, which is scheduled for May 24 and 25, 2025 at the Delta Hotels Toronto Airport & Conference Centre at 655 Dixon Rd, Etobicoke in Toronto.

Diaspora Property Expo is one of Africa’s biggest real estate exhibitions designed for Africans in the diaspora to explore property ownership and investment opportunities back home. With the spotlight on Ghana in the 2025 edition, Diaspora Property Expo US 2025 was successfully held at the 1735 Market Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on March 21-23, 2025.

On March 28, 2025, Diaspora Property Expo Canada 2025 was launched at the Ghana Consulate in Toronto; and all is now set for the main Canada edition which is scheduled for May 24 and 25 at the Delta Hotels Toronto Airport & Conference Centre at 655 Dixon Rd, Etobicoke inToronto.

Verus Nartey- Executive Director, Diaspora Property Expo

Diaspora Property Expo Canada 2025 is organized by Diaspora Property Investment Ltd, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Aim 2 Impact, Made in Ghana Consulting Ltd, Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Ghana High Commission in Ottawa, Ghana Consulate in Toronto and other partners. It comprises conferences, panel discussions, cultural showcase and first-rate presentations from leaders of the Ghanaian real estate space, government officials and personal investors, all sharing worthy insights into how to make useful progress on Ghana’s real estate landscape.

According to Mr. Verus Nartey, the Executive Director of Diaspora Property Expo, the Toronto event would offer a wonderful and lively networking sessions where attendees would have the chance to engage with top developers, financial institutions, fellow investors, government officials and other stakeholders from both Ghana and Canada.

“A number of senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources will be attending the Canada event”, confirms Julz Ossom, CEO of Aim 2 Impact, co-organizers of the event.

At the launch, the Consul-General of the Ghana Consulate in Toronto touched on the expo’s mission to strengthen ties between Ghana and the Canadian diaspora while promoting sustainable and community-driven developments in Ghana. He assured Ghanaians and people in the diaspora who are interested in acquiring reliable properties in Ghana to make time between May 24 and 25, 2025, to visit the Diaspora Property Expo in Toronto.

In a message to attendees at the Canada launch, Ghana’s Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Hon. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei described Ghana’s real estate landscape as evolving and recognition of the diaspora as a key partner in shaping its future.

“Through initiatives like DPE 2025, we are building a bridge that connects the diaspora with verified, credible, and strategic property investment opportunities in Ghana. We invite you our brothers and sisters in Canada to take advantage of this platform and let’s work together to build not just homes but a legacy of prosperity for generations to come,” the Minister added.

He was in Philadelphia last month for the United States leg of DPE 2025 and will lead a delegation from Ghana to the Canada edition, including the chief director of his ministry, Rev Yaw Osei The President of the Ghana Real Estate Development Association (GREDA), Dr. James Orleans Lindsay will also be present in Toronto this May.

In all, some 21 speakers will feature in the Toronto event; They include:

DPE Board Chairman and King of Abeadze, Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII; Col. Raj Kalra- Chairman of Kuber Group Africa; Mr. Simon Atieku- Head of Mission, Ghana High Commission to Canada; and Dr. James Orleans-Lindsay- Current President of GREDA.

Other speakers will include Mark McLaughlin, an experienced mortgage broker of Mor Mortgages; Mr. Odoi Yemoh- President of the Ghanaian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (GCCC), Chedwick Crieghtney- CEO Gold Pill Group; Jasmine Lee- Broker with EXP Realty Brokerage; Ms Michelle Minott of Right At Home Realty Brokerage and Mr. Salah Kweku Kalmoni- Executive Director of Lakeside Estate and a council member of the GREDA and many more

Diaspora Property Expo Canada 2025 is sponsored by Delta Airlines, Dover Company Ltd, KennieDecor; Track Plant Construction Ltd, Catch Sun Enterprise; Spotless Tour Company, Build Haap Ghana Ltd, Valcom Kingdom Express and Signum Development

Ghanaian footballers are excelling in top leagues all over the world

0

Accra, April 13 -The football world has a long history in its major leagues of poaching the best talent from all over the world, and there are many Ghanaian footballers who have been the beneficiaries of this practice.

The global football world is truly a multicultural one, with the top leagues and teams paying large sums to gain talented players from all over the world. Ghana should be proud to number more than its fair share of talented players that internationally famous teams have signed to play for them. 

From the Premier League in England to La Liga in Spain, talented Ghanaian footballers are making names for themselves and their country in the top tiers of football competition. This article will cover three of the most famous Ghanaian footballers, but there is more information on football players here, as this article is by no means an exhaustive list.

Mohammed Kudus

While this list is in no particular order, Mohammed Kudus is probably the most high profile of Ghana’s current international footballers. Kudus signed with West Ham United in August of 2023. The five-year contract was signed for an unknown amount, but there are reports it was in excess of €43 million. He is still rostered on the Ghana national team and for both his national team and West Ham plays as an attacking midfielder or right winger.

Kudus has proven his worth for the Hammers over the last couple of years by being instrumental in their success at reaching the knockout stages of the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League, as well as collecting a reasonable number of goals in the Premier League. He finished the 2024 Premier League season as the player with the most successful dribbles at 124 and also surpassed André Ayew’s record for the most goals by a Ghanaian playing for West Ham with 13.

Thomas Partey

Thomas Partey should be well-known to Arsenal fans, as he’s been a lynchpin in their defence since he joined the club in 2020. After signing for £45 million on a long-term contract, Partey’s time with Arsenal might be approaching its end, and rumours are swirling about where the Ghanaian defensive midfield star might head next. 

Having spent so long in England and being a true veteran of the sport, Partey might be the most accomplished Ghanaian football player of this generation. Despite missing much of the 2023/24 season due to an injury, his recent performance with Arsenal has received high praise from Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal. Being such an important and veteran piece of Arsenal’s defence, some fans wonder if the club can afford to be without such a steadying hand in the midfield if he does decide to move on.

Iñaki Williams

Some might say that Iñaki Williams shouldn’t be on a list of Ghanaian footballers, and we respectfully disagree. Williams might have been born in Spain, but his Ghanaian heritage is clearly of import to him, and he has made the choice to represent Ghana internationally. He is even known as Kweku within the Black Stars to celebrate his heritage and reinforce his belonging with the other members of the Ghanaian national squad.

As for his performances in La Liga, Williams is renowned for having one of the most relentless work ethics in the entire league. He currently holds the record for the most consecutive league appearances with 251 games without a gap. During the 2023/24 season, he was instrumental in getting Athletic Club a top-six finish, with 10 goals over the season and a number of assists.

Conclusion

As we mentioned, this list is by no means exhaustive, and there are many other talented Ghanaian footballers making names for themselves on the world stage, but these three stand out to us. With football fans seeing Ghanaian footballers playing for prestigious clubs in fiercely competitive leagues such as the English Premier League and Spanish La Liga, these talented players are not just ambassadors for Ghanaian talent but also sources of inspiration for young Ghanaian footballers starting out in their professional careers.

Ghana sets bold new course in mining policy with Damang decision – Isaac Tandoh

0

Isaac Tandoh is the Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission Isaac Tandoh is the Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission

In the wake of the government’s decision to reject the lease extension for the Damang Gold Mine, the Minerals Commission has described the move not as a setback, but as a turning point for Ghana’s natural resource management.

According to Isaac Tandoh, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, this decision offers Ghana a rare opportunity to redefine the trajectory of its extractive industry and assert greater national control over its mineral wealth.

“For far too long, our nation has watched as immense wealth is drawn from our soil, yet local communities remain underdeveloped and the benefits to the state fall short of what is just and sustainable,” Isaac Tandoh said in a piece sighted by GhanaWeb Business.

He added that, “This moment gives us the chance to reset those dynamics.”

His comments also echo recent calls by former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo for a sweeping review of Ghana’s mining laws and agreements.

Justice Akuffo described many of the existing arrangements as “neo-colonial,” highlighting the growing sentiment across the continent that Africa must reassert ownership of its natural resources.

Citing Burkina Faso’s recent move to nationalise several gold operations, Isaac Tandoh said Ghana should not be left behind in the continental shift toward greater resource sovereignty.

“This is not a crisis, it is a clarion call and we must now prioritise Ghanaian investors and consortia who have the capacity and commitment to operate responsibly and reinvest in our communities. This is about long-term national interest, not just short-term revenue,” he pointed out.

To this end, Isaac Tandoh outlined a three-point proposal to guide Ghana’s next steps:

• The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources should give precedence to Ghanaian-led bids in future mining lease reassignments.

• A moratorium should be placed on new large-scale foreign mining contracts until a comprehensive review of Act 703 and all existing agreements is completed.

• A Ghana Minerals Sovereignty Fund should be established to reinvest profits from national mining assets into infrastructure, education, and healthcare in mining communities.

He also emphasised that this is the moment for bold vision and strategic partnerships with indigenous entrepreneurs who are fully invested in the country’s future.

“Ghana deserves to benefit fully from her natural wealth. We must rise with a renewed sense of purpose and reclaim the dignity and dividends of our land,” he added.

The Damang decision, while signaling a shift in government posture, could have wider implications for foreign investment in Ghana’s mining sector.

However, experts say the priority must be aligning extractive activities with national development goals and ensuring a fairer share for the Ghanaian people.

MA

Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, which is the only fort in Ghana with a children’s condemned cell below:

St John’s Grammar Girls and Mfantsipim win 2025 Hooprave SHS basketball competition

0

Students of St John’s Grammar Girls and Mfantsipim with their trophies Students of St John’s Grammar Girls and Mfantsipim with their trophies

St John’s Grammar Girls And Mfantsipim Boys have been crowned champions of the 2025 Hooprave 3*3 SHS basketball competition in Accra.

The maiden edition of the Hooprave SHS basketball competition powered by the Ghana Boxing Association which was streamed live on iUNGO World had 8 teams in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

The Cape Coast based school secured the trophy after beating Ketasco 13-12 in the final game that entertained fans of both schools and the neutrals at the Bukom Boxing Areana on Saturday, April 12, 2024.

Mfantsipim on their journey to the finals defeated Temale SHS, Presec-Legon, Adisadel College, West African SHS and Keta SHTs (twice) to become the national basketball champions.

Unlike the finals between Mfantsipim and Keta SHTs, St John’s Grammar Girls dominated the women’s final game after beating Ahantaman Girls 7-2 to secure the victory.

In the women’s division, Mfantsiman Girls secure third place after defeating Holy Child SHS while West Africa Senior High School fend off Okuapeman School to win the bronze medal.

MVP Belicia Dede of St John’s Grammar SHS and Dylan Cudjoe of Mfantsipim Boys SHS were crowned as the MVPs in the women’s and men’s competition respectively.

Speaking to Happy Sports after the competition, president of the Ghana Basketball Association, Ato Van-Ess said this competition has come to provide a unique platform for young talents to shine and also to serve as a place to scout for players for the national team.

He also thanked iUNGO World for streaming the games live to put more spotlight on the players because the world needs to see that Ghana has good talents in basketball.

“This competition has come to stay and now our players will have the platform to shine and showcase what they have to the world. The national team will also get to scout talents for the future and I thanked iUNGO World for streaming this game to its global audience and we thanked them for that.”

CEO of iUNGO World, Jerry Johnson was also impressed with the attendance and the level of the competition he saw at the Bukom Boxing Arena while stressing that the project was too good to ignore.

“iUNGO World is a streaming platform globally and we are glad to have come on board as partners for this competition because we are happy with what we have seen today and hope that next year’s own will be bigger.”

You can also watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below:

I Met My Wife on Snapchat – Sam George’s Younger Brother Reveals at Lavish Wedding

0

In a heartwarming revelation that has captured public attention, the younger brother of the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Sam George, has shared the unusual but beautiful story of how he met his now-wife—through Snapchat.

The couple tied the knot in a grand and elegant wedding ceremony yesterday, attended by family, friends, dignitaries, and well-wishers from across the country. While the ceremony itself was a spectacle of love and celebration, it was during an interview at the reception that the groom opened up about the digital twist in their love story.

“Funny story, I met my wife on Snapchat, actually,” he said with a smile. “It was an interesting evening—I was at work, doing a late-night shift. I opened Snapchat and, usually, I’m the only one on Snap Map. But that night, I saw her, and I decided to text her. She happened to be awake, we started talking, and that led to a friendship. And here we are today—married.”

His story highlights the evolving nature of modern relationships, where social media platforms like Snapchat are increasingly playing a role in connecting people in meaningful ways. It also reflects the broader impact of digital technology in our everyday lives, a sector his older brother Sam George continues to champion as a key government official.

The newlyweds’ story has resonated with many, especially younger Ghanaians, who see digital platforms not just as tools for entertainment, but also for building lasting human connections.

As the joyous celebration continues, the couple’s journey from a late-night Snapchat message to a wedding altar serves as a reminder that sometimes, love truly can be just a message away.

Click here to watch the video.

Massive clean-up exercise heralds Ashantifest 

0

By Yussif Ibrahim

Kumasi, April 13, GNA – The maiden edition of Ashanti Festival (Ashantifest), an initiative aimed at showcasing the culture and investment potentials of the Ashanti Region, took off on Saturday with massive clean-up exercise in all 43 districts across the region. 

The 15-day celebration packed with exciting activities in the areas of health, education, business, sanitation, sports, and tourism is being spearheaded by the Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene. 

Guided by the saying that “cleanliness is next to Godliness” the Regional Minister directed all assemblies in the region to organise clean-up exercise to kick-start the two-week long celebration. 

He personally visited and took part in the exercise in various communities within the Kumasi Metropolis, demonstrating participatory leadership which has earned him applause from all quarters since becoming the Regional Minister. 

He coordinated the exercise from various locations including the districts as he moved from one location to another just to ensure the exercise was seamless and effective. 

Dr. Amoakohene visited places such as Dr. Mensah, Alar, Pelele, Anloga Junction, Tech Junction, Atonsu Market, Suame and Tafo to give participants morale support as political leader of the region. 

He applauded the people of Kumasi and the entire region for demonstrating high communal spirit and responding to a worthy cause. 

He said it was important to prioritise environmental cleanliness to ensure good health and high productivity hence the need to embrace the concept of periodic cleaning of communities. 

The Regional minister expressed grave concern about the practice where some recalcitrant citizens clandestinely dumped refuse in unauthorised places under the cover of darkness. 

Such people, he said, were nation wreckers and cautioned them to desist from the practice or face the full rigours of the law when caught. 

“We will not shield anyone found to be engaging in such unpatriotic act,” the Minister cautioned. 

He extended his appreciation to the people of Ashanti Region for their active participation in the exercise across the region and urged them to do same in the remaining activities. 

GNA 

YI/CA

National Service Authority staff resists political interference

0

National Service Authority (NSA) logo. File photo. National Service Authority (NSA) logo. File photo.

The National Service Authority Staff Union (NASASU) has condemned what it described as an attempt by political party foot soldiers to hijack the operations of the National Service Authority (NSA).

In a strongly worded statement dated April 11, 2025, and signed by NASASU Chairman, Ayirebi Adubofour, the union decried a growing political interference in the authority’s internal affairs, especially, regarding staff recruitments and transfers.

The union cautioned against the practice, stressing that such interference undermines democratic principles, erodes public trust, and compromises the integrity of state institutions.

“We strongly condemn the practice of political party foot soldiers attempting to hijack the National Service Authority. This phenomenon undermines the principle of democracy, erodes public trust, and compromises the integrity of our institutions,” the statement said in part.

The union emphasised that all recruitments and internal transfers are governed by the National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119), the Public Services Commission Act 1994 (Act 482), and Article 195 of the 1992 Constitution.

The union has, consequently, urged the youth of the Western Region, where tensions have reportedly arisen, to exercise restraint and allow the management of the authority to function within the confines of the law.

Read full statement below

VPO/AE

Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, where children were sold in exchange for kitchenware, others, below:

Gov’t’s poor communication hindered Ntim Fordjour’s cooperation

0

The Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, has shed light on why Assin South Member of Parliament, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, refused to cooperate with security agencies regarding his claims about two aircraft allegedly transporting illicit drugs and laundered money into Ghana.

President John Dramani Mahama had directed security agencies to collaborate with the MP to investigate the allegations.

However, that directive was soon undercut by public comments from Felix Ofosu Kwakye, Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, who dismissed the claims as “baseless” and accused Rev. Fordjour of spreading misinformation to tarnish the government’s image.

Tensions escalated when officials from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) attempted to arrest Rev. Fordjour. The move was blocked by members of the Minority in Parliament, who cited the lack of a valid arrest warrant and accused the agency of bypassing due process.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, April 12, Haruna Mohammed said Rev. Fordjour’s willingness to cooperate was undermined by the government’s swift dismissal of his allegations.

He criticised Felix Ofosu Kwakye for prejudging the matter and compromising the integrity of the investigative process.

“The conflict here is that Rev. Ntim Fordjour was ready to collaborate with the investigators, then government’s communication comes out to say that there was nothing. And went ahead to go into the substance of the matter. Do you get the problem?” Haruna said.

He explained that after the government publicly took a stance, the MP felt the process had already been influenced.

“Because the government had come in to do the communication and defended, Rev. Ntim Fordjour didn’t believe government again. Because a position was taken and a judgment had been passed that there was nothing,” he stated.

Haruna further claimed that the MP’s attempts to engage the Majority Caucus in Parliament were unsuccessful, which, he said, has pushed Rev. Fordjour toward adopting a more partisan approach.

GUTA backs secondhand traders, threatens nationwide protest over OR Foundation attacks

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

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

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

KNUST declares 2 former students persona non grata

0

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has officially declared two former students, Ransford Fosu-Boateng, popularly known as “Scammer Baby,” and Raphael Appiah Owusu, as persona non grata on its campus, citing persistent misconduct and threats to campus security.

A statement signed by Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe, Deputy Registrar of the University Relations Office, explained that Fosu-Boateng was dismissed on March 21, 2022, while Owusu’s dismissal took effect at the end of the 2023/2024 academic year.

According to the university, despite their removal from the student roll, both individuals reportedly continued to access residential halls, engage in disruptive activities, and harass members of the university community.

According to the statement, the latest incident involved their alleged participation in an unlawful gathering that resulted in vandalism and destruction of university property. The event, which was captured by campus CCTV systems, prompted management to take immediate action.

“The University Management wishes to categorically state that these individuals are no longer Bonafide students of KNUST and are henceforth not permitted to access or loiter within the premises of the University. They have been declared persona non grata and are to be treated as trespassers should they be found within any part of the University community,” the statement declared.

KNUST management warned current students against associating with the dismissed individuals, adding that anyone found aiding or facilitating their presence on campus would face strict disciplinary sanctions.

 The statement reaffirmed the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive environment for teaching and learning.

SLTF pays outstanding allowances to 65,000 teacher trainees

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

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

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

Spiritual attacks, juju prevalent among gospel artistes than secular artistes

0

Entertainment pundit Bulldog believes that the gospel music industry in Ghana faces more spiritual attacks than the secular music scene.

His comments follow gospel artiste Cwesi Oteng’s recent claim that some of his colleagues took his album to a cemetery in a spiritual attempt to sabotage him.

According to Bulldog, the gospel music industry in Ghana includes individuals who engage in juju and other forms of spiritual manipulation.

While acknowledging that some secular artistes also partake in such practices, he insists it is far more prevalent among gospel musicians.

“It happens in our business, and you could even dedicate an entire show to that. It’s worse in the gospel scene than on the secular side. It’s possible, and you shouldn’t think he’s making it up—it’s true,” Bulldog stated.

Watch the video below:

Time for Ghanaians to lead in the mining sector – Tandoh

0

Isaac Tandoh is the Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission Isaac Tandoh is the Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission

In the wake of the government’s decision to reject the lease extension for the Damang Gold Mine, the Minerals Commission has described the move not as a setback, but as a turning point for Ghana’s natural resource management.

According to Isaac Tandoh, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, this decision offers Ghana a rare opportunity to redefine the trajectory of its extractive industry and assert greater national control over its mineral wealth.

“For far too long, our nation has watched as immense wealth is drawn from our soil, yet local communities remain underdeveloped and the benefits to the state fall short of what is just and sustainable,” Isaac Tandoh said in a piece sighted by GhanaWeb Business.

He added that, “This moment gives us the chance to reset those dynamics.”

His comments also echo recent calls by former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo for a sweeping review of Ghana’s mining laws and agreements.

Justice Akuffo described many of the existing arrangements as “neo-colonial,” highlighting the growing sentiment across the continent that Africa must reassert ownership of its natural resources.

Citing Burkina Faso’s recent move to nationalise several gold operations, Isaac Tandoh said Ghana should not be left behind in the continental shift toward greater resource sovereignty.

“This is not a crisis, it is a clarion call and we must now prioritise Ghanaian investors and consortia who have the capacity and commitment to operate responsibly and reinvest in our communities. This is about long-term national interest, not just short-term revenue,” he pointed out.

To this end, Isaac Tandoh outlined a three-point proposal to guide Ghana’s next steps:

• The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources should give precedence to Ghanaian-led bids in future mining lease reassignments.

• A moratorium should be placed on new large-scale foreign mining contracts until a comprehensive review of Act 703 and all existing agreements is completed.

• A Ghana Minerals Sovereignty Fund should be established to reinvest profits from national mining assets into infrastructure, education, and healthcare in mining communities.

He also emphasised that this is the moment for bold vision and strategic partnerships with indigenous entrepreneurs who are fully invested in the country’s future.

“Ghana deserves to benefit fully from her natural wealth. We must rise with a renewed sense of purpose and reclaim the dignity and dividends of our land,” he added.

The Damang decision, while signaling a shift in government posture, could have wider implications for foreign investment in Ghana’s mining sector.

However, experts say the priority must be aligning extractive activities with national development goals and ensuring a fairer share for the Ghanaian people.

MA

Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, which is the only fort in Ghana with a children’s condemned cell below:

Trump’s iPhone olive branch is a significant trade war retreat

0

Well, well, well.

In a US customs messaging note quietly slipped out in the early hours of Saturday, a series of numbers were listed as exempt from the 125% tariff on goods entering the country from China.

The code “8517.13.00.00” means very little to most of the world, but in the US customs list, it represents smartphones.

The inclusion meant that the number one Chinese export to America by value last year was exempted from the import taxes, alongside other electronic devices and components, including semiconductors, solar cells and memory cards.

In the context of the US, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick just days ago announcing that part of the point of escalating tariffs on China was to bring back iPhone production to the US, this was a stunning about-turn.

The US has now excluded the single biggest Chinese export and certainly the most high-profile finished good from tariffs, without publicly announcing it at first.

It is worth considering what would have happened in the absence of this exemption.

The effect of 125% tariffs on Apple’s Zhengzou manufacturing facility in eastern China would have started to show in weeks at most across American Apple stores. It would have been a totemic “sticker shock” for the White House tumultuous tariff push.

According to one Counterpoint, a global technology market research firm, as much as 80% of Apple’s iPhones intended for US sale are made in China.

The tech giant’s manufacturing profit margins are estimated to be between 40-60%. Typical iPhone prices might have moved closer to $2,000 than $1,000. The other option for Apple could have been to spread the cost across all of its global prices, but would the rest of the world have accepted paying the Trump tariff tax?

A very public repricing of iPhones has been avoided, but it still may occur if, as the White House has said, the previously imposed 20% tariffs on China related to the powerful opioid fentanyl remain in place.

Tim Cook, the chief executive of Apple, is a key player here. He can walk into a meeting with both US president Donald Trump and China president Xi Jinping. It is not an outlandish prediction to suggest that, if it comes, any peace in the US-China trade war could be brokered by Cook.

That’s based on his deep fundamental role in connecting the two economies. He was hand selected by Apple’s co-founder Steve Jobs for his unrivalled expertise in just-in-time supply logistics.

‘Art of the Repeal’

This is all moving rather quickly now. Weekend reports in the US press claim White House trade hawk Pete Navarro is being sidelined too in favour of US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Navarro was the author of the infamous equation that set so-called reciprocal tariff rates in proportion to the size of a country’s trade surplus with the US, calling it “the sum of all cheating”.

Bessent is now leading negotiations with trade partners seeking to avoid the reapplication of those rates after the 90-day pause.

There is a big question after 10 days of chaos. What is the incentive for other nations to offer much here? The Trump administration is clearly spooked by the bond market reaction to the president’s trade plans and questions surrounding the safe haven status of US debt for investors.

In trying to stave off effective interest rates on bonds rising to 5%, the US needs deals more than just those in surplus countries.

Indeed, this weekend’s broad range of exemptions are in and of themselves an astonishing U-turn on the principle embodied in the notorious tariff chart held up by Trump in the Rose Garden.

Just under a quarter of China’s total exports are now exempt from the 125% tariff, according to Capital Economics.

The consultancy suggests there are other big winners from the exemptions, with 64% of exports to the US from Taiwan, 44% from Malaysia, and just under 30% from both Vietnam and Thailand now also exempt.

The 10% universal tariff is now riddled with exemptions, and the biggest carve-outs are for many nations with massive trade surpluses from electronics manufacturing.

The new tariff equation is to give an effective discount from the universal 10% (through exemptions) to those with the biggest surpluses. For example, Taiwan has a $74bn surplus with the US, and Vietnam has a $124bn surplus.

This is the exact opposite of the infamous Navarro calculation from last week. In 10 days, we’ve gone from the “looters and pillagers” will be hit the hardest, to (apart from China) those with big surpluses getting the biggest exemptions.

Meanwhile, an ally such as the UK, which according to US figures has a $12bn deficit – i.e. the US sells more to the UK than the other way round- has a 25% tariff on cars, its biggest goods exports, with number two, medicines, in line for similar charges.

The White House has gone from clearly suggesting that there would be no negotiation on the baseline 10% tariffs to offering exemptions to the very products causing the deficit that the entire policy was supposed to solve.

This is a lot more than a “row back”. Some have called it the “Art of the Repeal”. The 4D chess has been replaced by someone playing one-dimensional checkers, but unable to tell the difference between opposing pieces.

The US is now negotiating with the bond markets and itself. The rest of the world will just see how this plays out now.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Ghana Olympic Committee holds smooth and credible extraordinary assembly ahead of congress

0

Some members of the GOC during the congress Some members of the GOC during the congress

The Extraordinary Assembly of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre, ended on a smooth and credible note, as the administration of President Ben Nunoo Mensah demonstrated transparency, accountability, and fairness to the admiration of all delegates.

Delegates gave a resounding round of applause after Treasurer Frederick Acheampong presented the statement of accounts for the 2023 and 2024 financial years.

Deputy Treasurer Isaac Aboagye Duah also presented the 2025 budget, which received overwhelming approval from the delegates.

“For the first time in the history of GOC congresses, accounts were presented without any faults or fights,” said Samuel Ayeh (Jollof), a former athlete, coach, and representative of the Security Services.

However, Fuseini, representing Ghana Athletics, called for consistency, while Christen Ashiley, representing Ghana Canoeing and Rowing, appealed for uniform support for National Federations in the payment of their affiliation fees to their respective International Federations.

Charles Asare of Ghana Cricket commended the assembly for being one of the best, smoothest, and most controversy-free meetings, noting the absence of heated debates or procedural drills.

Yakubu Abdul Razak, also known as ‘Commando’ and representing the Ghana Kickboxing Association, congratulated the board for its excellent service.

He praised the leadership of President Ben Nunoo Mensah over the past eight years and urged his successor to build upon the solid foundation, especially the prudent and transparent financial management.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Ben Nunoo Mensah, who also serves as HRH Nii Kojo Ashiefie Papanyira I, Development Chief of the Ga State, expressed gratitude to the delegates for their trust and confidence in the board, which he said had led to numerous achievements.

He also expressed hope that these legacies would be sustained and improved.

As the GOC prepares for its Elective Congress on April 26, 2025, he wished all candidates well and encouraged delegates to vote based on credibility, integrity, selflessness, and proven track records to safeguard the positive image and legacy of the GOC and the Commonwealth Games Association (CGA).

He extended his appreciation to all who supported him and the board over the past eight years, including sponsors, the media, sports enthusiasts, and discerning Ghanaians.

He urged the incoming board to ensure that the over US$500,000 in savings accrued during his tenure be invested into the OlympAfrica Juvenile Sports Excellence Centre at Amasaman, as originally intended.

We don’t want Ebi Bright as mayor – Tema Youth to Mahama

0

Some youth from Tema have stormed the premises of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly, demanding that President John Dramani Mahama appoint an indigene as the next Mayor of Tema.

The protestors voiced their concerns with burning car tyres and the rhythmic beating of drums, sending a strong message to authorities.

Their agitation comes amid reports suggesting that Ebi Bright is being considered for the position, despite earlier indications that Patience Ankamah Addo was the frontrunner for the mayoral role.

Speaking to the media, Dora Sappor, a concerned youth from Tema, firmly rejected the idea of Ebi Bright’s appointment as Mayor of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly.

“We are here with a heavy heart to register our displeasure. We are hearing that Ebi Bright is to be made the Mayor of Tema, but that is not going to happen. She was not even part of the whole process, so why are they bringing her to be the mayor? This is something we will not understand.

This is the only demand of the youth of Tema East and the traditional leaders,” she stated.

DCE Nominee for Twifo Hemang Lower Denkyira confirmed, pledges collaboration for district’s development 

0

By Nana Kwame Essel

Denkyira Ankaako (C/R), April 13, GNA – Mr Patrick Fiable, the District Chief Executive (DCE) nominee for Hemang-Lower-Denkyira District of the central region, has been confirmed amid vows to collaborate with assembly members and traditional authorities to drive development in the district. 

 According to him, providing skills training and financial support to reduce unemployment, formed part of his vision, focusing on agriculture as the key sector in the district. 

Enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting youth in the sector, promoting tourist attractions like Kakum National Park to stimulate economic growth and working with assembly members, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders to achieve development goals were important. 

Mr Fiable noted that his vision aligned with the district’s mission to improve living standards through effective resource mobilisation and good governance. 

 By boosting the 24-hour economy, he aims to fulfil President John Mahama’s campaign promises and contribute to the “Ghana Agenda” initiative. 

GNA 

AT/CA 

Security Analyst criticizes Mahama’s communication approach

0

Security analyst Emmanuel Kutin has criticised former President John Dramani Mahama over how he issued a directive to security agencies following allegations made by the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, concerning suspected illicit activities at Kotoka International Airport.

In a Facebook post dated April 1, 2025, President Mahama called on security agencies to collaborate with Rev. Fordjour to investigate claims that two aircraft had transported illicit drugs and laundered money into Ghana.

However, on April 9, operatives from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) reportedly surrounded the MP’s residence at Spintex, Accra, in an attempt to arrest him.

This action was thwarted by Minority MPs and some executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who argued that the NIB failed to present a valid arrest warrant and did not follow proper legal procedures.

Appearing on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue with Selorm Adonoo on Saturday, April 12, Kutin questioned the appropriateness of the former President’s communication platform for such a serious directive.

“My other challenge as a security analyst is the medium the President used in giving the directive was quite problematic, giving the severity of the issue—a Facebook page—giving that it was even April 1,” he said.

“Some of us thought it was an April fool kind of thing. Because a week or two earlier, you remember his X account was hacked,” he added.

 

Electricity tariff up 14.75%, water 4.02% effective May 3

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

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

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

Wole Soyinka Condemns Ban On Eedris Abdulkareem’s Song

0

Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has condemned the recent ban on a song by Nigerian musician, Eedris Abdulkareem, calling the move a regression to a culture of censorship and a serious threat to the right to free expression.

In a statement issued from New York University, Abu Dhabi, on Sunday, Soyinka expressed his disapproval of the ban and its broader implications, stating that it echoed past attempts to suppress artistic and socio-political commentary in Nigeria.

Nigerian PhD student pleads guilty to fraud in US

0

Nigerian PhD student pleads guilty to fraud in US


Featured


U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Missouri


International News



2 minutes read

A 24-year-old Nigerian man has pleaded guilty in a U.S. court to using forged documents to fraudulently secure a student visa, enrol in a PhD programme, and obtain multiple benefits, including housing, a Social Security card, and financial support.

Mercy Ojedeji admitted to submitting counterfeit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a fake English proficiency report, and a falsified résumé to gain admission to the University of Missouri’s chemistry PhD programme in 2023. The documents also enabled him to obtain a student visa and a financial package worth over $49,000.

Ojedeji later used the student visa to apply for a Social Security card, open a bank account, and rent an apartment with assistance from his partner.

However, he failed to attend classes, take on teaching or research duties, or join a research group. He was removed from the programme in January 2024, leading to the termination of his student visa.

Despite this, he used the invalid visa to acquire a driver’s licence in Missouri the following month.

U.S. authorities say Ojedeji became the focus of a wider investigation into romance fraud after postal inspectors received complaints about cash and gift cards being mailed to his partner’s address.

Between December 2023 and early January 2024, at least 35 packages linked to Nigerian IP addresses were delivered to the address. Investigators say more than 190 packages were sent there during his relationship with the woman.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office claims that the intended financial loss could exceed $1 million, based on cash and items recovered from 17 of the seized packages. Ojedeji, however, continues to deny involvement in the romance scam itself.

He pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of using fraudulent immigration documents. He faces up to 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for July 10.

The case has drawn attention in West Africa, where similar fraudulent document schemes have raised concerns about the ease with which falsified records are used to exploit foreign admissions systems. It also highlights the broader implications of cyber-enabled fraud linked to parts of the region.

The investigation was led by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with support from the FBI and local law enforcement.

Only the political class has benefited from Ghana’s multi-party democracy – Prof Akosa

0

Prof Agyeman Badu Akosa is a former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service Prof Agyeman Badu Akosa is a former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service

A former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Prof Agyeman Badu Akosa, has shot down the relevance to development of the practice of multi-party democracy system of governance in Ghana since 1992.

According to him, the system has failed to meet its intended expectations and has not effectively served the country’s broader interests.

Instead, he argued, it has primarily benefited a select few — particularly those within the political class.

Speaking at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Public Lecture Series on April 11, 2025, Prof Akosa stated that over the years, the political class has become the primary beneficiary of the system, leaving other segments of society increasingly marginalised.

“I believe sincerely, and I’ll say it here today, that multi-party democracy has done nothing for this country. Since 1992, the only beneficiaries of the system have been the political class. The professional class, the working class, the underclass have all been totally marginalised,” he said.

He lamented the unfortunate sidelining and persistent disregard of many learned and knowledgeable individuals who, despite their potentials to contribute meaningfully to nation-building and development, have been consistently overlooked by the political class.

He emphasised that such practices have contributed little to the nation’s development, suggesting that meaningful progress will only be achieved if the country is willing to effectively harness the expertise of its professional and working classes.

“It’s as if, if you live in this country, your sense is not respected (sic). We must be prepared to harvest the intellectual might of this country and to progress this country,” he continued.

In line with the broader change he was advocating, Prof Akosa called for educational reforms, emphasising the need to incorporate and promote local languages within the educational system.

“So, ladies and gentlemen, I believe and I share in Patrice Lumumba’s statement that the change starts now. The change starts with the new educational system and the relevance of our local language in our educational system.

“And let me say that let’s disabuse our minds that our grandparents are witches and wizards. They gave birth to you, they nurtured you and today, because you’ve gone to school, you turn around and say they are witches. What you have lost is what your ancestors knew and your ability to add onto it. That has been one of the tragedies of our modern Ghana. We can correct it and let’s correct it now,” he added.

MAG/AE

Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, where children were sold in exchange for kitchenware, others, below:

Restorative justice key to Bawku peace – Inusah Fuseini

0

Former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Inusah Fuseini, has weighed in on the longstanding Bawku conflict, urging stakeholders to embrace the realities of modern-day Ghana and pursue restorative justice as a pathway to lasting peace.

According to him, demographic shifts and historical injustices must be acknowledged and addressed if genuine reconciliation is to be achieved.

Fuseini emphasised that the focus should now be on finding a sustainable and just resolution that reflects current realities, rather than clinging to outdated power structures.

“A lot of things have happened. The Kusasis have grown big, and in Bawku, they have outnumbered the Mumprusis by far. Even as Ghanaians, when we were under British rule, a time came and we said enough is enough.

“There can only be one solution to this problem, which is a realization of the realities of modern-day Ghana and restorative justice. That is what the Otumfuo should be looking at,” he stated.

He also called on the Mamprusi community to consider what concessions they would be willing to make in light of the changes.

“What is it that the Mamprusis will accept in place of Bawku. Because for a long time they were keeping the reins, and they are going to lose out. So, what will they accept to let go,” he added.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, April 11, made a passionate appeal to the youth of Bawku, urging them to cease hostilities and embrace peace.

As an incentive, he announced plans to prioritise the youth of Bawku in the upcoming police recruitment.

Bawku Violence: Victims thank IGP for peace efforts

Qatar Charity commissions water project at Sagnarigu-Tamale 

0

Accra, April 13, GNA – Qatar Charity, an International non-governmental organization in Ghana, has commissioned a Centralized borehole water system at Sagnarigu  in Tamale in the Northern  Region. 

The  borehole uses solar panel Energy to power reservoirs to produce clean drinking water for residents.  

The project was powered with some sustainable climate resilient solar panels  and pumps which are sustainable, pilot, and  unique to that effect, offering the Qatar Charity  their largest ever water solutions model project in Ghana.  

The programmes Manager of Qatar Charity, Mr. Abdullah Muslem said the method adopted in the project design was cost effective, environmentally friendly, and implemented to fulfil the needs of clean drinking water for the residents of the area as it operated with sunlight in the day and filled the reservoir tanks to provide a means of water storage  for use during the night.  

The demonstrated the engineering of the  project where two boreholes were dugout to complement each other in case of low or dry water, and allowing two solar pumps to pump the two boreholes water to three water storage tanks installed on the stand with the capacity of 5000 litre each tank (15000) Whereas a main tank was installed on ground with the capacity of 10000 litre.  

The total water storage is 350000 liters  at main project site. There are 14  main water storage points/tanks, installed at four different locations along with 3 tap stands for easy access to water near to the doorsteps.  

All the water points across the area have been connected to the centralized reservoirs.  

Mr. Muslim  highlighted on the significance of the role and responsibilities of the residents of the Sagnarigu community for purposes of development of the area, and for sustainability of the project.  

He saidQatar Charity’s role was to provide clean drinking water, whereas the people, after the implementation, had the ultimate responsibility to ensure its safety, operation, and maintenance.   

The main objective for the implementation of the project was to provide a clean and safe drinking water to more than 10000 men, women, and children of the villages through a network of pipelines and fixed storing reservoirs/tanks at various central points along with installation of group taps for easy access to all. 

 According to the people of Sagnarigu, the project had been the first and best ever water intervention that the village has witnessed so far: 

“This project is one of its kind in our village that we have witnessed. We are very thankful for QATAR CHARITY in this regard, and we hope that they will continue to work for our community in future,” the constituency communication officer, Abdullah Muhammed Amin added. 

The chief of the area, Mr. Yakubu Abdulai,  expressed his feelings of gratitude to QATAR CHARITY during the opening ceremony.  

He said the lack of access to clean drinking water was a big issue for the entirearea , which had been resolved by QC. 

He acknowledged, with  gratitude to Qatar Charity,  the fact that the project will forever serve as a lasting blessing for the residents of Sagnarigu, contributing to the promotion of health and well-being for the entire community.  

“The efficient solar-powered water distribution system represents a positive step towards improving living conditions and enhancing development prospects in this remote village of the northern region, ” the Chief added. 

GNA  

GRB 

Watch as Sam George steals show with his energetic dance moves at brother’s wedding

0

Sam George and his wife dancing at the wedding ceremony Sam George and his wife dancing at the wedding ceremony

Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, was the talk of social media after he brought energy to his younger brother’s wedding reception with some impressive dance moves.

The MP for Ningo-Prampram was captured on videos grooving with his wife, Vera George, at the event, delighting guests and social media users alike.

Emmanuel Kofi Tetteh George – Sam George’s brother, tied the knot with his long-time fiancée, Ruth Ewoenam, in a beautiful ceremony on April 12, 2025.

Sam George could be seen proudly standing by his junior brother’s side, taking up best man duties for the big day.

The MP attended the ceremony with his industrious wife, Vera George, who dazzled in a sparkling green gown.

The reception was a lively affair, with the newlyweds and guests taking over the dancefloor.

However, it was Sam George who caught attention as he showcased his dancing skills alongside his elegantly dressed wife, who stunned in a sparkling green gown.

Videos from the wedding quickly went viral, with many praising the MP’s energetic performance.

Social media users flooded the comments with reactions, some congratulating the couple while others celebrated Sam George’s lively presence as the best man.

Watch the videos below;

ID/AE

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Entertainment News WhatsApp channel

‘They took sand from my footprints and my pictures for rituals, but my father was there’ – Adwoa Safo

0

Sarah Adwoa Safo is a former MP for Dome-Kwabenya Constituency Sarah Adwoa Safo is a former MP for Dome-Kwabenya Constituency

A former Member of Parliament for the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has recounted some spiritual challenges she encountered during her bid to become a Member of Parliament.

According to her, some persons took her pictures and collected sand from her footprints for rituals.

However, eulogising her father, Apostle Safo Kantanka noted that with his spiritual backing, those spiritual attempts on her life were rendered fruitless.

In a video circulating on social media and sighted by GhanaWeb, she said: “During my first parliamentary election contest in the Dome-Kwabenya constituency, some individuals took my picture and collected sand from my footprints to use in a sacred ritual. However, whenever they attempted to call out my spirit to cause harm, my father would appear to protect me.”

She further narrated that it was impossible for the perpetrators to harm her because whenever her name was mentioned, her father appeared.

“It got to a point when the ritualist saw my picture, they said it was a man. When they mentioned my name, he said they should never mention that name again. As for my father, I don’t know how to thank him,” she said.

Adwoa Safo has been on several media tours after the 2024 general election to speak on her position in the New Patriotic Party and the ordeals she faced as an MP during her time in office.

This has triggered some friction between her and members of the NPP.SSD/AE

Watch the video below

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

SSD/AE

Fiifi Boafo questions government over refusal to renew Goldfields’ Damang Mine lease

0

Former Corporate Affairs Manager for Ghana COCOBOD, Fiifi Boafo Former Corporate Affairs Manager for Ghana COCOBOD, Fiifi Boafo

Former Corporate Affairs Manager for Ghana COCOBOD, Fiifi Boafo, has questioned the rationale behind the government’s decision not to renew Gold Fields’ mining lease for the Damang Mine.

He is raising concerns about whether a powerful influence may be behind the government’s decision.

In a post shared on social media, Boafo expressed worry about the potential impact of the move on investor confidence in Ghana, especially amid claims that some mining companies, frustrated by recent developments, are already exiting the country.

What troubles him even more is the possible adverse effect the decision could have on employees, locals, and the broader community that has, over the years, benefited from Gold Fields’ presence.

“Why is Gold Fields struggling to get its Damang Mine lease renewed? Is there a powerful hand frustrating the process in order to take over the mine? What will be the effect on investor confidence in the country? Who stands to benefit from the potential refusal of the lease renewal? Will it be the government, employees, the local community or…? Interesting days ahead,” he wrote in the post.

Background

Gold Fields’ application for an extension of its lease for the Damang Mine has been rejected by the government.

A memo to staff indicated that the current lease will expire on April 18, 2025. However, all efforts to renew it have so far been unsuccessful.

The company is currently engaging with the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in an attempt to resolve the situation.

In the meantime, Gold Fields has informed its workers to begin preparing for the expiry of the lease.

We don’t want Ebi Bright as mayor

0

Some youth from Tema have stormed the premises of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly, demanding that President John Dramani Mahama appoint an indigene as the next Mayor of Tema.

The protestors voiced their concerns with burning car tyres and the rhythmic beating of drums, sending a strong message to authorities.

Their agitation comes amid reports suggesting that Ebi Bright is being considered for the position, despite earlier indications that Patience Ankamah Addo was the frontrunner for the mayoral role.

Speaking to the media, Dora Sappor, a concerned youth from Tema, firmly rejected the idea of Ebi Bright’s appointment as Mayor of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly.

“We are here with a heavy heart to register our displeasure. We are hearing that Ebi Bright is to be made the Mayor of Tema, but that is not going to happen. She was not even part of the whole process, so why are they bringing her to be the mayor? This is something we will not understand.

This is the only demand of the youth of Tema East and the traditional leaders,” she stated.

Akufo-Addo failed to release GH¢250m land compensation

0

The Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, Dr. Tony Aubynn, has revealed that the previous Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration failed to release the GH₵250 million earmarked for land compensation related to the Petroleum Hub project.

During a courtesy call on the Chiefs of the Western Nzema Traditional Area at Benyin in the Western Region, Dr. Aubynn identified the unresolved compensation as the key challenge hindering progress on the project.

The Petroleum Hub project, located at Nawule in the Jomoro District, is envisioned to include the construction of a refinery, 3,000 cubic metres of storage tanks, a jetty, and is expected to generate over 780,000 jobs.

Despite the signing of a $12 billion agreement in 2024 and a sod-cutting ceremony led by the former president in anticipation of construction beginning in the third quarter of that year, Dr. Aubynn said several obstacles remain.

Speaking during his visit to the project site after meeting the traditional leaders, he stated:
“The main challenge facing the project now is the issue of the outstanding land compensation.”

The Chief of Tsikobo Number-2, Nana Avo Nwiah, speaking on behalf of the Western Nzema Chiefs, reaffirmed their support for the initiative but urged the government to honour its commitments to the affected communities.
“We support the project, but we are calling for immediate payment of crop compensation, as well as ensuring employment for locals when the project commences,” he said.

Dr. Aubynn assured the chiefs of his commitment to resolving the compensation issue and fostering collaboration with the local communities as the project progresses.

Leadership of Kantamanto Market distances itself from GUCDA strike

0

The leadership of Kantamanto Market has rejected assertions made by the Ghana Used Clothing Dealers Association (GUCDA) that The OR Foundation is trying to buy the market and collapse it.

The leadership has described the assertion as misleading and unrepresentative of the true voices within the market, hence the decision by GUCDA to go on strike is unreasonable.

In a statement the leadership reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, sustainability, and an ongoing partnership with The OR Foundation, whose aim is to stop the dumping of used clothing into the ocean.

According to them, GUCDA represents only a small segment of the secondhand clothing trade—mainly importers—and not the diverse community of small-scale retailers, head porters (kayayei), tailors, upcyclers, and resellers who drive the market’s daily operations.

“GUCDA does not represent us,” the leadership emphasized.

The leadership also expressed strong support for The OR Foundation, highlighting its years of collaboration with Kantamanto retailers. They noted that The OR Foundation has earned the community’s trust through consistent support, including fire recovery aid, upcycling training, public health initiatives, and research carried out in partnership with market workers.

“Their estimate that around 40% of clothing that enters the market becomes waste is not misinformation—it is an accurate reflection of our daily experience,” the leadership asserted.

They explained that traders often have no control over the contents of imported clothing bales, which frequently contain torn, stained, outdated, or excess items that are difficult or impossible to sell.

“Waste is not a smear campaign—it is the reality we confront every day”.

The leadership emphasised that the waste problem is systemic, stemming from overproduction in the Global North.

“Kantamanto and Ghana are not dumping grounds by choice, but by design. The global fashion system creates this imbalance, and until that is addressed, local traders will continue to bear the burden,” they said.

“We reject any effort to erase the voices of those who work hardest to sustain this market,” the statement said.

The leadership declared that Kantamanto Market remains open and active despite recent fire destruction.

They credited The OR Foundation for providing essential support such as construction materials and emergency financial aid to over 9,000 people.

“Our resilience is strong, and our market is vibrant. We welcome all partners who want to trade, collaborate, and invest in a sustainable future,” the statement concluded.

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.

Watch as Kofi Bentil is made to backtrack on live TV for claiming govt photos from AirMed were fake

0

Kofi Bentil is the Vice President of IMANI Africa Kofi Bentil is the Vice President of IMANI Africa

The controversy surrounding the drug trafficking allegations linked to some suspicious aircraft, raised by the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, shows no signs of ending anytime soon, as new developments continue to emerge.

Pictures and video footage shared by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, in which he explained that the AirMed flights arrived in the country for maintenance, thereby dismissing allegations of drug trafficking as alleged by Fordjour, have been labeled as fake by Kofi Bentil, the Vice President of IMANI Africa.

Speaking on Newsfile on JoyNews on Saturday, April 12, 2025, Kofi Bentil, a panel member, controversially claimed that the pictures posted by the minister of state were fake, while discussing the ongoing cocaine plane saga.

According to Bentil, the facts on the ground seem to contradict the information provided by the government, raising concerns about the seriousness of the issue.

“Some of the pictures that were shown were fake pictures and some of the facts on the ground do not bear us the information that the government spokesperson came to tell us. That’s a serious matter,” Bentil claimed.

However, his bold claims that the government posted fake pictures of the AirMed flights were challenged by the program’s host, who sought to verify the accuracy of Bentil’s accusations.

When asked how he arrived at the conclusion that the pictures were fake and whether he had personally verified them, Bentil responded affirmatively, stating that he had conducted a Google search which revealed the original source of the images.

When pressed to provide the source or basis for his claim, Bentil quickly backtracked, clarifying that it was someone else who had checked the origin of the images on Google and concluded that they were fake.

But the host of the program, made the point that Bentil cannot be speaking authoritatively on such things without proper evidence, leading to the IMANI Africa top executive eating humble pie and changing the trajectory of his claims.

Read excerpts of the conversation below:

Bentil: Some of the pictures that were shown were fake pictures and some of the facts on the ground do not bear us the information that the government spokesperson came to tell us. That’s a serious matter.

Host (Samson Lardi): Some of the pictures were fake?

Bentil: Yes, some of the pictures were fake.

Host: How did you confirm that?

Bentil: You check it on Google and it shows you the source…

Host: You have checked?

Bentil: Yes.

Host: So, can you show us how one of those pictures is fake because you have done that? Because it’s a serious claim you are making.

Bentil: Some of the pictures that were put out, somebody checked on Google and saw that it’s a picture of that aeroplane tyre or something and saw that that picture had been pulled from somewhere.

Host: You say that some of the pictures shown by the government representing the aeroplane and the things that came with it are fake. I think you cannot say that and not show us your source or your basis for saying that.

Bentil: Now, I said for the government spokesperson to be the one speaking over an investigation that the state institution has done and it’s not completed, that is where all these things has its problems. Let the state institution speak. Then I said some of the pictures that the government spokesperson supposedly put out, somebody checked on Google and came and said they saw that picture in a stock somewhere else. All right? So, I’m saying when you create these kinds of situations, don’t let the state institutions do those things.

Host: You see, now you’re explaining that somebody else checked one or some of the pictures and confirmed that it is fake. You yourself have not confirmed that for yourself.

Bentil: No, I haven’t.

MAG/AE

Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, where children were sold in exchange for kitchenware, others, below:

Osei Kuffour names his best Black Stars teammates 

0

Kingson (L), Essien (M) and Abedi (R) have made it to Kuffour's all-time Black Stars XI Kingson (L), Essien (M) and Abedi (R) have made it to Kuffour’s all-time Black Stars XI

A former Black Stars defender, Samuel Osei Kuffour, has shred what he says are his all-time Black Stars XI, composed of players he shared the pitch with. 

Kuffour had a storied career with the Black Stars, playing alongside some of Ghana’s finest talents during a golden era of football.

In an interview with Sporty FM, the former Bayern Munich defender was tasked with selecting the best players he lined up with in each position during his time with the Black Stars.

The 2001 UEFA Champions League winner made some bold picks, starting with Richard Kingson between the sticks. Kingson, just like Kuffour, was part of the Black Stars squad that made their maiden appearance at the World Cup in 2006. 

He was also instrumental for the Black Stars as they advanced to the quarter-finals in 2010.

In defense, Kuffour selected Emmanuel Armah, who was popularly known as “Senegal” during his playing days. Armah was part of the Black Stars squad that placed second in the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Senegal.

In defensive midfield, the former defender named Michael Essien as the best teammate in that position. Kuffour and Essien notably shared the pitch in Ghana’s first game at the World Cup in 2006. 

 

Unfortunately, Ghana lost 2-0 against eventual winners, Italy.

Kuffour then chose Abedi Pele, arguably Ghana’s greatest-ever player, as the attacking midfielder. Pele captained Ghana to the 1992 AFCON, where the team placed second.

To lead the attack, Kuffour opted for Anthony Yeboah. Yeboah was also part of the Black Stars squad that placed second in the 1992 AFCON.

FKA/AE

You can also watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below:

Casual Outfits For You

0

When it comes to personal style, there’s nothing quite like the ease and charm of casual outfits. These are the go-to looks for the everyday woman who wants to stay comfortable without sacrificing style. Whether you’re running errands, catching up with friends, attending low-key events, or simply enjoying a relaxing day out, casual fashion provides the perfect balance between laid-back and put-together.

Today’s casual wear goes beyond basic jeans and tees it embraces variety, color, texture, and personality. It’s about expressing who you are, even on the simplest of days. Whether you lean toward minimalism or love to add a pop of flair, there’s a casual look that’s perfectly made for you.

At the heart of any good casual outfit is comfort soft fabrics, breathable textures, and easy fits that move with your body. Think relaxed joggers with cute crop tops, breezy maxi dresses, denim paired with flowy blouses, or oversized button-down shirts over leggings. The beauty of casual style is that it allows you to feel good while looking effortlessly chic.

No matter where the day takes you, these outfits have you covered with zero stress and full-on style.

Nothing screams convenience like a well-matched two-piece outfit. Whether it’s a short and top combo or a matching skirt and blouse set, co-ords are a quick and stylish way to look pulled together. Plus, they can easily be mixed and matched with other items in your wardrobe, giving you endless styling options.

Throw on sneakers or slides, grab a crossbody bag, and you’re ready to step out in style.

Casual doesn’t mean boring. Simple cotton or jersey dresses, especially in midi or maxi length, offer an airy elegance perfect for warm days or chill vibes. Whether styled with sandals for a daytime stroll or dressed up with wedges and accessories for an afternoon date, these dresses are the definition of versatile fashion.

Choose from floral prints, color blocks, or plain tones depending on your mood and personality.

Prof. Gyampo sets new austerity tone at Ghana Shippers Authority

0

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA), Professor Ransford Gyampo, has outlined a series of cost-cutting and ethical leadership measures aimed at restoring financial stability and public trust in the institution.

Reflecting on his early days in office, Prof. Gyampo revealed that he inherited a financially strained authority, which was impacted by broader fiscal policies, including the previous administration’s decision to consolidate excess funds from state institutions to meet national obligations.

In an interview with Adom FM, he acknowledged that “The decision to pool institutional funds to meet national commitments, like paying bondholders, was critical.” he said, “But it left institutions like ours gasping for air.”

In response, the former academic and public intellectual has launched what he terms an “innovative austerity agenda” focused on operational efficiency and ethical leadership.

Among the key measures:

  • Travel Reform: All non-essential foreign travel has been suspended. When travel is approved, all staff—including the CEO—must fly economy class.

  • Contract Reviews: Existing contracts have been reviewed, with some renegotiated or terminated to secure better value for money.

  • Suspension of Incentives: Certain staff incentives have been paused temporarily to reduce expenditure and align with the Authority’s current financial reality.

“I travel economy class – and so will everyone else. I may be the only CEO in Ghana who does that today. But it is unthinkable and unethical to indulge in opulence while the institution I lead is bleeding.”

He further disclosed that he uses an old official vehicle strictly for work purposes and relies on his personal car for private events.

Prof. Gyampo’s leadership style, which he describes as grounded in simplicity and accountability, has sparked both admiration and criticism. He dismissed recent allegations that he purchased a luxury massage chair for his office as “ignorant propaganda.”

“That claim is not only false but senseless,” he responded. “Competent propaganda isn’t for little minds. We are here to work, not indulge.”

The GSA CEO also highlighted the non-partisan nature of his appointment, praising President John Dramani Mahama for including non-party members in his administration.

“The President has shown courage by bringing in people like me, who are not members of his party, to contribute. That shows seriousness,” he said.

With a leadership approach shaped by modest beginnings and years of experience in academia and unionism, Prof. Gyampo aims to reset the culture of leadership in public institutions.

“We won’t countenance a sense of entitlement that perpetuates what is wrong,” he said. “We’re here to change the status quo.”

As he begins his tenure, many will be watching to see whether Prof. Gyampo’s principled leadership can indeed set a new standard in Ghana’s public sector.

Mahama outlines key interventions under ‘Feed Ghana’ to transform Agriculture

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

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

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