By James Amoh Junior, GNA

Accra, May 13, GNA – The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has launched a training programme aimed at equipping celebrities and influencers with the knowledge and skills to serve as effective advocates for peace and leadership among African youth.

The five-day training, currently underway at the KAIPTC in Accra, is an initiative of the Centre’s Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI), and reflects KAIPTC’s strategic commitment to advancing the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda across the continent.

The course offers participants in-depth sessions on conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and leadership development.

Upon completion, participants are expected to initiate peace-driven campaigns and leverage their platforms to inspire positive social change.

This initiative is being delivered with support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), whose contribution underscores the KAIPTC’s status as a Centre of Excellence in peacekeeping training within the ECOWAS sub-region.

With WYPSI’s expanded mandate to include youth under the YPS agenda, the training signifies a deliberate shift toward inclusion and youth empowerment.

The programme was developed in response to critical insights gathered through stakeholder consultations held in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Senegal, and Ghana.

These engagements revealed significant gaps in how influencers and public figures are currently mobilized for peace advocacy.

Therefore, a Learning Design and Development (LDD) workshop, held earlier this year, helped shape the course to directly address those gaps.

In today’s digital landscape, celebrities and social media influencers hold considerable sway over Africa’s youth.

When equipped with the right tools and messages, they have the power to catalyze lasting societal change, making them ideal partners in peacebuilding efforts.

Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong, Commandant, KAIPTC, whose speech was read on his behalf by the Director of

Policy Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Department and Acting Director of WYPSI, Mrs. Sylvia Abra Nutsukpui, stressed the urgency of nurturing resilient and visionary leadership in the face of rising global uncertainties.

“In a world that often seems fraught with division and conflict, the need for effective leadership, coupled with a profound understanding of peacebuilding principles, is more crucial than ever,” she said.

Mrs. Nutsukpui explained that the course had been deliberately curated to respond to the needs identified in the field.

She noted that each participant possessed the potential to influence peers, foster dialogue, and inspire action towards lasting peace.

According to her, today’s complex political, social, and environmental challenges called for innovative thinking and transformative leadership.

She encouraged participants to fully immerse themselves in the experience, absorbing the training content, sharing their unique perspectives, and learning from one another.

Quoting the late Kofi Annan, she reminded the trainees that “a peaceful world is a prosperous world,” and emphasized that their commitment to leadership in peacebuilding was critical to shaping a future where dialogue triumphs over discord and cooperation prevails over conflict.

Dr. Fiifi Adu-Afful, a consultant on the Youth in Leadership course, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, emphasized the need to shift the narrative around youth in conflict situations, pointing out that young people were often seen merely as perpetrators or instruments of violence.

Drawing on the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, he highlighted the importance of youth participation in decision-making and that “oftentimes, we think young people are spoilers, used for all kinds of nefarious activities.”

“Resolution 2250 paved the way for us to understand the important role youth play in peacebuilding and fashion out ways to engage them.”

The influencer training forms part of KAIPTC’s wider efforts to foster inclusive peacebuilding frameworks across Africa.

GNA

CA

Ghana failed in their attempt to qualify for the next U-20 World Cup after losing to Egypt on Monday, May 12.

The Black Satellites lost 5-4 on penalties following a 2-2 result in 120 minutes of action, ending their hopes of progressing further at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.

Egypt enjoyed a great start to the game, scoring two goals in eight minutes.

Momen Sherif, twice, pounced on a defensive mix-up in the Ghanaian defence involving Ofori McCarthy and goalkeeper Gidious Aseako.

After going two goals down, Ghana calmed their nerves and grew their way into the game.

Their efforts were rewarded in additional time of the first half when Egypt’s goalkeeper made a mess of Abdul Aziz Isaiah’s long-range effort to make it 2-1.

Desmond Ofei’s boys went into the break on the back foot and with a lot to play for in the second half.

The Black Satellites should have scored just before the hour mark, but Denis Marfo’s header from a cross went just over the crossbar.

It was all Ghana in the second half, but the Satellites were unable to draw level from the opportunities presented to them.

When all hope seemed lost and gone, Hakim Sulemana kept Ghana in the game after they were awarded a penalty for a foul on Joseph Opoku.

The Randers forward scored from the penalty spot to take the game to extra time.

The Satellites were reduced to 10 players after Aaron Essel was sent off for a last-man tackle.

Ghana pushed the game into penalties, where they eventually lost after Dacosta Antwi missed the second attempt while Egypt scored all of their kicks.

The result means the Satellites exit the competition with the host advancing to the semifinals while also grabbing a World Cup slot.

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

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

THREE financial institutions have paid GH¢ 8.5 million to 227 Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) owners affected by the Kantamanto fire outbreak.

They are Advans Ghana, Turaco Inclusive Ghana (T/A Turaco) and Enterprise Insurance Ltd.

The timely gesture has helped traders to clear their outstanding loans, while providing capital to rebuild their businesses during this challenging period.

The January 2 fire at the Kantamanto Market claimed one life, injured 14 people and left over 30,000 traders affected, with more than 7,000 shops reduced to ashes.

Speaking to the media after a short presentation in Accra, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Advans Ghana, Guillaume Valence, said the payments were critical in giving their customers the peace of mind and the needed financial relief in such a difficult time.

He said, “At the core of our mission is the understanding that when we support traders and small businesses, we are supporting the entire economy of Ghana.”

“At Advans, we are intentional about embedding insurance into our services so our customers are protected in moments like these.

Our partnership with Turaco and Enterprise Insurance is part of that proactive approach to safeguarding livelihoods and this payout demonstrates the power of building financial resilience in advance,” he said. 

Promoting insurance

The Deputy Commissioner for the National Insurance Commission (NIC), Bernard Ohemeng-Baah, said the commission was focused on promoting insurance for underserved communities.

He said the support provided to victims of the January fire outbreak in Kantamanto demonstrates that insurance works and plays a key role in helping affected individuals recover and rebuild their businesses.

He urged the partners to expand their coverage beyond the 227 individuals supported so far to enable a greater number of people to have access to the benefits of insurance in future occurrences.

For her part, the General Manager for Turaco Ghana, Leona Lilian Abban, explained that micro insurance was a customer-centric service that made it possible for the most vulnerable people to access financial protection when they needed it most.

This is evident in our partnership with Advans Ghana and Enterprise Insurance, where insurance is embedded directly into financial services.

Together, we have insured over 200,000 customers across Ghana, helping them bounce back from life’s unexpected shocks. The Kantamanto response shows that strategic partnerships and seamless delivery can turn risk into resilience,” she said.

All rubber, cashew and shea exporters must seek written approval before shipping abroad

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has warned that the country could be losing as much as GH¢22.5million annually due to the unchecked export of raw rubber.

To curb the losses and protect local processing industries, the Authority has directed all exporters of rubber, cashew and shea to seek written approval before shipping these crops abroad. The measure aims to boost value addition and strengthen the domestic economy.

Andrew Osie Okrah, acting Chief Executive Officer-TCDA, in an interview following a high level stakeholder forum on the regulatory framework governing the rapidly growing tree crops sector, said the directive – which took effect on May 2 – seeks to ensure raw materials are made available to local factories before any export is permitted.

“We are not banning exports,” he clarified. “We are saying let’s ensure our factories are well-fed before we export. That’s the law,” he said.

He noted that the nation loses nearly GH¢22.5million annually from the export of roughly 3,000 metric tonnes of unprocessed rubber, based on an estimated value of GH¢450 per tonne.

The Acting CEO warned that if the current trend continues, Ghana could see widespread job losses in the rubber processing industry – which currently employs over 1,400 workers and has the potential to create up to 6,000 jobs under a 24-hour production model.

Local industry players say lack of enforcement over the past few years has made the rubber value chain increasingly fragile.

Emmanuel Akwesi Owusu, President-Association of Natural Rubber Actors of Ghana (ANRAC), said side-selling and unregulated exports have undermined efforts to grow the industry sustainably. Farmers are defaulting on loans because they are being undercut or even robbed of their produce, while processors face a critical shortage of raw materials.

“At least one factory has collapsed,” Mr. Owusu said. “Others are operating at just 60% of their capacity.”

Ghana currently produces about 100,000 metric tonnes of rubber annually, but about 40% is exported – much of it unprocessed. According to Owusu, the value loss from this is significant. With global prices around US$700 per tonne, the outflow of 40,000 tonnes in unprocessed form represents a major missed opportunity to generate foreign exchange and add value locally.

The TCDA, which was established in 2020 under Act 1010, has only recently begun enforcing its regulatory mandate across the tree crops sector.

Okrah said the Authority has activated Regulation LI 2471, which requires exporters to notify and receive approval from the TCDA before shipping rubber, cashew or shea abroad.

Stakeholders from the Ghana Revenue Authority, Customs Division, Port Authority and Ghana Shippers’ Authority have all signed on to the directive, pledging to enforce the new rules at the country’s ports.

Mr. Owusu welcomed the move, saying it would breathe new life into the rubber industry.

“With regulation in place, we can stabilise the industry, improve farmers’ incomes and generate more employment along the value chain – from processing to transport,” he said.

The lack of regulation in recent years has also discouraged commercial investment. Mr. Owusu noted that between 1995 and 2018, more than 35,000 hectares of rubber were planted through government-backed schemes.

However, that momentum has slowed considerably in recent years as financial institutions have withdrawn from the sector.

Analysts say enforcing the directive could help reverse the decline and boost confidence among lenders. Local processors, given steady access to raw materials, can expand operations and improve Ghana’s foreign exchange position.

“The more we process here, the more FX we earn,” Mr. Owusu added. “This can help stabilise the cedi.”

While Ghana’s rubber quality is regarded as one of the best in West Africa, the ANRAC president said without reforms to ensure consistent supply and investment, the country risks falling behind competitors.

For now, the TCDA’s directive signals a turning point.

“If we all play our part,” the Acting CEO said, “we can protect jobs, grow our industries and retain value here in Ghana.”

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

Kennedy Ohene Agyapong is a former Assin Central Member of Parliament. File photo.

Former Assin Central Member of Parliament, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has declared a recent court decision to slash an $18 million defamation award against him to a $500 as a “resounding legal vindication.”

The ruling stems from a long-running legal battle with investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

In a statement issued by Kennedy Agyapong on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, the former legislator underscored his commitment to fighting for justice and fairness.

“The court’s decision to reduce the amount to $500 represents not only a resounding legal vindication but also a reaffirmation of my long-standing belief in justice, fairness, and the right to speak truth to power,” the statement read in part.

Agyapong’s legal team successfully filed a motion for remittitur, arguing that the initial jury award of $18 million was “grossly excessive and unsupported by the evidence presented at trial.”

Following judicial review, the presiding judge concurred, deeming the substantial damages “disproportionate and legally unsustainable.”

The US court case was initiated by Anas Aremeyaw Anas in the state of New Jersey, where Agyapong reportedly owns property, after a similar defamation claim by the journalist in Ghana seven years prior was unsuccessful.

Read statement below

VPO/AE

‘Where did you get the dollars?’ Watch as Opambour questions Sammy Gyamfi

Tidjane Thiam has announced his resignation as president of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire – African Democratic Rally (PDCI-RDA), due, in his words, to the “judicial harassment” he is facing, reports allAfrica.fr.

The announcement was made in a video posted last night on social media, while a trial, in which a PDCI activist is questioning the legality of his election as party leader in December 2023, continues.

Thiam’s party held a Political Bureau meeting on Monday morning in Abidjan to officially appoint an interim president. In another video posted on social media, Ernest N’Koumo Mobio claims to be assuming this role.

 For more details on Thiam’s announcement in French, click here.

Tidjane Thiam was removed from the electoral roll by a court ruling on April 22, six months before the next presidential election, because he had lost his Ivorian nationality, according to one of his lawyers. This decision, which is not subject to appeal, for the time being closes the door on Tidjane Thiam’s candidacy in the October 25 presidential election.

The recent assessment by the global ratings agency S&P describing Ghana’s economy as “stable but fragile,” underscores the need for policymakers to tread carefully to sustain the current growth trajectory. 

As we navigate the complexities of our economic landscape, it is imperative to acknowledge both the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead.

The recent uptick in gold export receipts and improved foreign exchange reserves are positive indicators, driven in part by the government’s efforts to regulate the artisanal mining sector and boost export earnings.

However, underlying vulnerabilities threaten to undermine these gains. High inflation, stubbornly above the Bank of Ghana’s target band of eight plus or minus two, continues to erode consumer purchasing power and business profitability.

The cedi’s short-term stability, attributed to the managed float regime, may not persist as structural imbalances and fiscal constraints reassert themselves. Moreover, Ghana’s debt burden remains substantial, with interest costs projected to remain elevated, posing a risk to currency stability and long-term fiscal consolidation.

The country’s ongoing IMF-supported fiscal reforms aim to strike a balance between capital investments and critical social spending, but tight fiscal space constrains policymaking.

In this context, S&P’s upgrade of Ghana’s credit ratings from ‘SD’ to ‘CCC+’ reflects progress in restructuring debt. The debt overhaul has reduced Ghana’s debt service burden, but even modest currency depreciation could quickly inflate debt service obligations and fiscal deficits. Policymakers must prioritise measures to support the private sector, enhance revenue mobilisation and promote sustainable economic growth.

The recent surge in foreign exchange reserves, driven by a favourable current account balance, presents an opportunity to rebuild buffers and stabilise the economy. With the current account recording its largest surplus on record in 2024, reaching $3.58 billion or 4.4 per cent of GDP, Ghana can leverage this momentum to drive economic growth.

The value of gold exports rose by 53.2 per cent due to increases in both volume and price, while net remittance flows increased 34.1 per cent.

However, the economy still faces significant challenges. The banking sector, though recapitalised in 2023, shows signs of strain, with non-performing loans rising to 21.8 per cent by end-2024. 

The sector remains adequately capitalised, but credit risk persists. Furthermore, political uncertainty and social policy developments, including the controversial “Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values” bill, pose potential headwinds for the economy.

For the Graphic Business, as Ghana navigates this delicate balance, policymakers, businesses and citizens must work together to address the country’s economic challenges. By prioritising sustainable economic growth, promoting economic diversification and maintaining fiscal discipline, we can build a more resilient economy and secure a brighter future for generations to come.

To achieve this, the government must implement structural reforms to improve the business environment, enhance infrastructure, and promote private sector growth. Additionally, efforts to improve revenue mobilisation and reduce debt vulnerabilities are crucial to ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability.

The private sector also has a critical role to play in driving economic growth and job creation. Businesses must invest in innovation, productivity and human capital to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.

Ultimately, Ghana’s economic future depends on the collective efforts of its citizens, policymakers and businesses. By working together, we can overcome the current fragilities and build a more stable and prosperous future for all Ghanaians. 

The challenge ahead is daunting, but with prudent economic management and a shared vision for the future, Ghana can achieve sustainable economic growth and improve the living standards of its citizens.

MSC TÜRKIYE, one of the largest vessels ever to berth at a port

Ghana’s maritime industry has reached a historic milestone with the arrival of the MSC TÜRKIYE, one of the largest vessels ever to berth at a port in the sub-Saharan region.

This landmark event occurred just one week after the arrival of another ultra-large vessel, the MSC DILETTA, at the Meridian Port Services (MPS) Terminal 3 at the Port of Tema.

The occasion was graced by dignitaries, including government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and leading business executives.

The Managing Director of MSC Ghana, Garmy Sy, expressed her excitement at the development and reaffirmed the company’s long-standing commitment to Ghana’s maritime growth.

“The arrival of the 24,000 TEU ultra-large container vessels on Africa’s coasts is not just a major achievement for our company, but a testament to our commitment to enhancing trade infrastructure, fostering economic growth across the continent and contributing to local prosperity,” she stated.

Sy noted that the presence of such vessels represents development, job creation and sustainable growth for Ghana. She added that MSC has been active in Africa for 50 years and in Ghana for 17 years, and “today’s deployment marks the next major step in this journey”.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, reaffirmed the government’s dedication, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to advancing the maritime sector.

“MPS has become a model of successful partnership in Ghana,” he said. “I urge all government stakeholders to emulate MPS by creating an enabling environment for business growth.”

He further assured the shipping industry and prospective investors that “Ghana possesses the facilities, expertise and human resources necessary to meet all your trade and logistics needs. Under this government, we are determined to transform the overall business climate.”

The Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, commended the port and marine workforce for safely manoeuvring and berthing the giant vessel.

“This achievement results from the strategic partnership between MPS and the Government of Ghana. The terminal is more than just concrete and steel—it represents jobs created, businesses expanded and countless lives uplifted through faster and more competitive trade. It symbolises Ghana’s readiness to embrace the future,” he said.

Vice President for MSC’s Far East to Sub-Saharan Africa region, Gilbert Capoellini, highlighted the significance of the MSC TÜRKIYE’s deployment, indicating that it stands as a major enhancement for services to West Africa.

“Deployed on the MSC Africa Express Service, the MSC TÜRKIYE connects Asia’s powerhouse economies to West Africa’s emerging economic hubs. This upgraded service charts a course through China, South Korea and Singapore before arriving in West Africa, with Tema proudly standing as her first port of call,” he explained.

Chief Executive Officer of Meridian Port Services Ltd., Mohammed Samara, reflected on the vision laid out nearly a decade ago.

“In 2015, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, we envisioned infrastructure capable of handling ultra-large vessels. Today, that vision is alive as we welcome one of the world’s largest ships,” he said.

“To our trade and industry stakeholders, our motto is: ‘We connect, you thrive’. We are opening access to markets beyond Ghana—from Angola to Mauritania—with greater efficiency. Our design criteria is focused on durability and scalability for the next hundred years, cutting transit times from Asia to Tema from 40–50 days to under 20 days,” he concluded.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

As Ghana stands on the brink of a deepening development crisis fueled by unsustainable debt, illicit financial flows, and shrinking donor support, ActionAid Ghana is taking a bold step forward by convening a National Civil Society Dialogue and Mobilisation on the Financing for Development (F4D) on 14th May 2025 in Accra.

This high-stakes Dialogue is more than an event—it is a rallying cry for justice, bringing together leading voices in civil society to confront the exploitative financial systems and global inequalities that continue to undermine Ghana’s progress.

With over US$138 billion paid by low-income countries in debt servicing last year alone—money that should have gone into education, healthcare, and climate resilience, the need for action has never been more urgent.

Ghana’s own debt reached GH¢608 billion by the end of 2023, a staggering 35.9% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, public services are underfunded, inequality is widening, and the most vulnerable—especially women, youth, and low-income communities—are bearing the brunt of a broken system.

“Ghana is not just dealing with a fiscal crisis—it is facing a full-blown development emergency,” said John Nkaw, Country Director of ActionAid Ghana. “This Dialogue is about reclaiming our voice, reshaping our economic future, and demanding a fair share for people—not just profits. We must replace outdated, colonial-era financial systems with bold, inclusive, and locally rooted solutions.”

Reclaiming Development: A Civil Society-Led Movement

This Dialogue brings together bold voices from civil society organisations such as OXFAM, CARE, Plan, ISODEC, ABANTU, NETRight, GII, Amnesty, WACSI, CRS, Tax Justice networks, youth coalitions, and many others.

Together, these movements will amplify the voices of those most affected by unjust systems and build a shared advocacy platform to demand accountable governance and people-first fiscal policies.

The Dialogue Will Drive Four Key Demands:

• Progressive, gender-responsive, and climate-smart tax reforms to increase domestic revenue and reduce inequality.
• Urgent action to stop illicit financial flows and corporate tax abuse that rob Ghana of billions annually.
• Increased investment in gender-responsive public services, including quality education, healthcare, and social protection for all.
• Innovative and sustainable funding pathways for civil society, ensuring movements remain vibrant, independent, and impactful.

This dialogue is not a one-time conversation; it kicks off a coordinated campaign demanding economic justice, climate accountability, and gender equity globally.

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

The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) recorded a remarkable performance in April 2025, with significant gains across its benchmark indices and a surge in investor activity. 

This analysis provides an in-depth examination of the key trends, insights and implications of the GSE’s performance.

Market performance

The GSE Composite Index (GSE-CI) posted an impressive year-to-date (YTD) return of 24.69 per cent, while the Financial Stock Index (FSI) advanced by 30.72 per cent.

These gains reflect a strong rebound in the market, driven by increased investor confidence and a favourable economic environment. The improved performance of the benchmark indices is a testament to the resilience and potential of the Ghanaian economy.

Trading Activity

The number of transactions recorded on the bourse soared by 587.19 per cent compared to April 2024, indicating heightened trading activity and improving market sentiment.

However, the total traded volume declined by 34.58 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to 22.88 million shares, suggesting a shift towards more selective and strategic investment decisions.

This dichotomy between transaction numbers and traded volume highlights the evolving nature of investor behaviour in the market.

Market trends

Higher-value transactions: Despite the decline in traded volume, market value recorded a modest increase of 7.81 per cent YoY to GH¢ 144.90 billion. 

This suggests a shift towards higher-value equity transactions, driven by investors’ increasing focus on quality and fundamentally strong stocks.

The growth in market value, despite a decline in volume, underscores the market’s potential for sustained growth and investor confidence.

The strong performance of financial stocks such as Societe Generale Ghana PLC and GCB Bank PLC, and consumer-focused companies such as Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC and Fan Milk PLC, indicates growing investor interest in these sectors.

This trend is likely driven by the perception of these sectors as stable and growth-oriented, offering attractive returns on investment.

Gainers and losers

Top gainers:

SIC Insurance Company PLC (42.86 per cent), Clydestone Ghana PLC (33.33 per cent) and Societe Generale Ghana PLC (10.00 per cent) were among the top gainers. 

These stocks demonstrated strong price appreciation, driven by improved company performance and investor confidence. The performance of these stocks highlights the importance of fundamental analysis and company performance in driving investor interest.

Biggest losers: 

Cal Bank PLC (-13.33 per cent), Scancom PLC (MTN Ghana) (-5.43 per cent) and NewGold (-1.65 per cent) were the biggest losers. These losses highlight the need for investors to remain cautious and monitor market developments closely. The losses also underscore the inherent risks associated with investing in the stock market and the importance of diversification.

Outlook

The GSE’s strong performance reflects renewed confidence in the local equities market, driven by improved economic conditions and investor sentiment.

This renewed confidence is crucial for sustaining market growth and attracting new investors.

To sustain this growth momentum, the GSE must continue to promote investor education, improve market infrastructure, and enhance regulatory frameworks.

The exchange must also work to increase market participation and trading activity, particularly among individual investors.

The GSE offers attractive investment opportunities for investors seeking to capitalise on Ghana’s economic growth potential. 

The market’s growth prospects, coupled with the country’s economic stability and potential for growth, make it an attractive destination for both local and foreign investors.

The Ghana Stock Exchange’s strong performance in April 2025 demonstrates the market’s potential for growth and investor confidence. 

As the market continues to evolve, investors, regulators and market participants need to work together to promote sustainable growth and development.

By fostering a conducive investment environment and improving market infrastructure, the GSE can continue to play a vital role in Ghana’s economic development.

The GSE and regulatory bodies should prioritise investor education initiatives to enhance market participation and informed decision-making.

The exchange should continue to improve its infrastructure and technology to enhance trading efficiency, transparency, and security.

Regulatory bodies should review and refine regulatory frameworks to ensure they are conducive to market growth and investor protection.

Starting next month, the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment (MLJE) will roll out a nationwide Qualifications and Skills Mismatches Survey (QSMS) targeting individuals in employment across both the formal and informal sectors. 

The objective is to generate data that will inform evidence-based policymaking, particularly to bridge the gap between education, skills and the labour sectors.

The QSMS, as defined by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), assesses the extent to which workers’ qualifications and skills align with the requirements of their jobs.

It identifies mismatches such as underqualification, overqualification, or a disconnect between the skills held by workers and those demanded by employers.

In collaboration with the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), the national QSMS project aims at measuring the prevalence of skills and qualifications mismatches in the Ghanaian workforce.

The data collected will support the development of policies that better match education and training programmes to labour market needs, while also serving as a complementary measure of labour underutilisation in sectors within regions across the country.

As part of preparations for the upcoming survey, the ministry held a stakeholder engagement last Wednesday in Accra, bringing together representatives from the education sector, as well as public and private institutions.

Participants discussed the institutional and individual components of the QSMS and deliberated on the way forward for the successful implementation of the national project.

In attendance were the Director, Research, Statistics and Information Management, MLJE, Shadrack Mensah; acting Chief Director, Gloria Borteley Noi; Vice-Chancellor of the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor; representative of the Ghana Employers Association, Kingsley Narh, and Bernard Adjei from the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.

Comprehensive data

The Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Rashid Pelpuo, in a speech read on his behalf by the Acting Chief Director, Gloria Borteley Noi, at the statekeholder engagement yesterday said as the lead policymaker on employment and labour-related issues, his outfit recognised the critical need for comprehensive data to address mismatches in employment.

“The QSMS will be Ghana’s first nationally representative survey to measure these gaps across formal and informal employment sectors, inform policy, align education with labour market needs, and ultimately enhance productivity,” Dr Pelpuo said.

Economic growth

The minister stressed that countries worldwide were focusing on economic growth by improving labour productivity, while economies like Ghana, which once absorbed many low-skilled workers, especially in agriculture, technological advancements were now reducing demand for such jobs.

“This challenge is compounded by the perceived shortage of critical skills and the mismatch between qualifications/skills and the labour market needs. These gaps hinder proper placement and utilisation of employees, affecting both formal and informal sectors of our economy,” he said.

Pilot survey

The Director, Research, Statistics and Information Management, Mr Shadrack Mensah, mentioned that the ministry had already conducted a pilot survey in the Greater Accra, Northern, and Upper West regions to refine the survey instrument and monitoring frameworks, as well as build the capacity of field teams and identify logistical challenges.

He urged stakeholders, industrial leaders, policymakers, and development partners to actively support the survey’s successful execution, which would provide valuable information to inform National Human Capital Development policies and programmes.

The Focal Person for the MLJE at the GSS, Jane Geraldo-Acolatse, emphasised that the GSS’s core mandate was to produce data and statistics to support policy formulation and evidence-based decision-making.

She added that the upcoming QSMS fell squarely within this mandate and appealed to all stakeholders, especially the media, to help raise public awareness of the survey.

That, she explained, would ensure smooth cooperation between field officers and respondents during the data collection process.

 The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Ms Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has expressed concern regarding the ongoing rejection of nominees for Metro­politan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) across different assemblies.

She indicated that such rejections could severely impact the development of the affected assemblies, as the lack of MD­CEs would result in the stagnation of development proj­ects, consequently delaying community advancement and obstructing the overall growth and progress of the nation.

Mrs Ocloo there­fore called on assem­bly members and government appointees to collabo­rate effectively with the MMDCEs to ensure the confirmation process was smooth and successful.

Addressing journalists on Thursday at Ada in Accra, after the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) nominee for Ada East, Mr Ken­neth Kabu Kanor failed to secure the two thirds majority during his confirmation, she said there was the need for better collaboration between nominees and assembly members to ensure a successful result.

Mr Kanor secured 21 votes out of the total of 35 cast.

In contrast, the environment and outcomes in the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, Kpone Kat­amanso Municipal Assembly, and Tema West Municipal Assembly were characterised by cooperation and productivity, as noted by the minister.

The Nominee for Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, Mr Freeman Tsekpo was confirmed and sworn in by the minister after securing 100 per cent yes votes from the 26 assembly members, made up of 18 elected and eight government appointees.

Similarly, the nominee for Kpone Katamanso Municipal Assembly, Mr Samuel Tetteh Kwarshie Morton was also confirmed and sworn in after successfully obtaining 26 votes out of the total 27 votes cast by the assembly members.

Also, Mr Ludwig Teye Totimeh, the nominee for Tema West Mu­nicipal Assembly was confirmed and sworn into office by the minister after obtaining a 100 per cent vote, unanimously confirmed, with all 16 assembly members.

She urged assembly members to work closely with the MCEs to en­sure the effective implementation of development initiatives in their electoral areas.

The Policy Adviser for Political Affairs at the Office of the Vice President Dr Samuel Ofosu Am­pofo, who was present at the confirmation of the Tema West MCE, assured the assembly and indigenes that they would not be left out of government’s development initiatives.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to equitable development across all districts, assuring the assembly that Tema West would enjoy its fair share of the “national cake.”

The sworn-in MCEs ex­pressed their appreciation to President John Dramani Maha­ma for their nominations, and to assembly members for the overwhelming support.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Tsekpo, said Ashaiman was a vibrant and dynamic munici­pality and home to industrious people who contribute im­mensely to the socio-economic growth of Ghana.

He highlighted pressing com­munity issues, including poor infrastructure, sanitation prob­lems, traffic congestion, youth unemployment, and security con­cerns, which his administration will prioritise and address with commitment and urgency.

The new MCE stated that they would work tirelessly to ensure the expansion and rehabilitation of roads to ease traffic conges­tion, improve drainage systems to mitigate flooding, and enhance access to essential services such as health, education, job creation, and youth unemployment.

 FROM CECILIA YADA LAGBA, ADA

Evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, says she will return the money she received from the Acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, following public criticism and growing calls for his suspension.

In a widely circulated video, Gyamfi is seen handing what appears to be U.S. dollars to the controversial evangelist—footage that has sparked backlash, particularly from members of the Minority in Parliament.

They have described the gesture as inappropriate and are calling for his immediate suspension.

Responding to the controversy in a live video on Instagram, Nana Agradaa said she plans to return the money—and even double the amount.

“I will return the $800 and even double it. I will do my best to find his office, and I will go there with my camera and show it to Ghanaians that I have returned the money,” she stated.

The former fetish priestess, now turned evangelist, expressed concern that her involvement might damage Gyamfi’s career, saying her conscience would not permit that.

“This is my mantle, my Bible, and my anointing oil, as a great woman of God, and I say that I will set my church on fire if I am the reason Sammy will lose his job. Because the Bible said we should do good to everybody, the Bible did not discriminate when it said that. So, if Sammy Gyamfi gives me money, he deserves to do that,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Minister in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on May 12, 2025, accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of engaging in opportunistic politics by calling for Gyamfi’s suspension.

Speaking on Eyewitness News with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu dismissed the NPP’s reaction as politically motivated, questioning their credibility on issues of public accountability.

“The moment the NPP jumps into this, you know that they’re just dabbling in opportunistic politics. They don’t believe in any of the principles they’re espousing. If you look at their conduct and behaviour in government, this is not a party that has any respect for modesty or even decency in public office,” he said.

Sammy Gyamfi must be held to same standard as Cecilia Dapaah – Walewale MP

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.

In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢12.8 and a selling price of GH¢12.89 to a dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢17.02 and sold at GH¢17.04, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢14.32 and a selling price of GH¢14.34.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 13, 2025, at 08:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢13.85 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢18.70 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢16.00 on the retail market.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

The AfriKan Continental Union Consult (ACUC), a think-tank in African good governance, has called for the resignation of Mr. Sammy Gyamfi, the acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), over a viral dollar donation video.

The viral video, which has drawn massive disapproval from the public, shows Mr. Gyamfi counting and giving some undisclosed amount of foreign currency to Madam Patricia Oduro Koranteng, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, a self-proclaimed evangelist.

Dr. Benjamin Anyagre Aziginaateeg, the Chief Executive Officer of the ACUC, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in a reaction that Mr. Gyamfi, who is also the Communication Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), must resign or be dismissed from office by the president if the public misconduct is proven to be true.

Dr. Aziginaateeg said the video was an affront and disregard to Ghana’s image and a dent on the office of the president, especially when President John Dramani Mahama just launched a code of conduct for government office holders.

“This is a test case; let’s face it squarely, as a huge measurement for good governance, indeed, what a test case for the President,” he stressed, adding that “He should resign because he has lost it. The resetting must begin with good attitudinal behaviours of people in power.”

He further questioned what moral right the government would have to talk about corruption and other related issues, especially when the giveaway was not in local currency and it involved the CEO of a mineral-related board.

According to the ACUC CEO, the resident risks becoming unpopular within days if he does not walk the code of conduct, suggesting that within six months, the president should do a review of the performance of the government appointee.

“He cannot disappoint the Ghanaian with his richly accumulated experiences. He will be hated more than for President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo if he remains soft,” he said.

He further added that governments must have clear ideologies and adequate preparation of their officers before assumption of duty, as without that, the government might fail right from the beginning.

Meanwhile, Mr. Gyamfi has since apologised to Ghanaians and the president for the content of the viral video, clarifying that, “this was simply a kind gesture to a fellow human being, in line with my daily and lifelong custom of lending a helping hand to people in need. I sincerely thought that I was doing this act of kindness in private and never imagined that same could find its way into the public space.”

He added in a post on X.

Mr. Gyamfi wrote, “That is unfortunate and regrettable. I must say that I understand the uproar that this gesture has generated, particularly from comrades who are sincerely hurt by the same. To all such comrades, I AM SINCERELY SORRY for this unfortunate act of indiscretion. I respect and appreciate your views.”

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

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