April 24 – China Everything recently released a documentary titled “Xi’s Passion for Reading,” a compelling documentary that explores the literary journey of Chinese President Xi Jinping and the profound influence reading has had on his leadership and world view. 

“Reading is my biggest hobby,” he has said. “Reading will be my lifelong hobby.” 

Xi’s passion for reading has remained constant, with his reading list still growing. 

In his view, reading maintains intellectual vitality, inspires wisdom and cultivates strong moral character. 

By Samira Larbie

Accra, April 24, GNA – Ghana will tomorrow, April 25, commemorate World Malaria Day (WMD) with the expectation that government will clearly outline its vision for malaria elimination in the country. 

Dr Felicia Owusu-Antwi, National Professional Officer for Malaria at the World Health Organisation (WHO), said that would help stakeholders to understand their roles and responsibilities towards achieving the country’s malaria elimination targets. 

She made the call during a webinar, organised by the Centre for Malaria Research at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS). 

That was in collaboration with the Ghana National Malaria Elimination Programme and the African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN), ahead of the 2025 World Malaria Day celebration. 

Dr Owusu-Antwi noted that while malaria elimination may be a long and complex process, it was possible with the right systems in place.  

“These include strong surveillance, capacity building, effective partnerships, governance, and cross-border collaboration, underpinned by strong political will,” she said. 

“All these cannot be achieved without awareness creation, education, and the advocacy roles played by journalists.” 

Citing examples of countries that had successfully eliminated malaria -including Morocco, Sri Lanka, Paraguay, Algeria, Cabo Verde, and Egypt – Dr Owusu-Antwi encouraged the media to continue their efforts in educating the public and advocating a malaria-free Ghana. 

The World Malaria Day, observed annually on April 25, highlights the need for sustained investment and political commitment in malaria prevention and control efforts. 

The 2025 commemoration is themed: “Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.”  

It is a grassroots campaign aimed at reinvigorating efforts at all levels – from global policy to community action – to accelerate progress toward elimination. 

The Day was instituted by WHO Member States at the 2007 World Health Assembly to recognise achievements in malaria control and mobilise individual and collective efforts to end the disease. 

Global research shows that over the last two decades, more than seven million lives have been saved and over one billion malaria cases prevented. 

 However, malaria remains one of the world’s oldest and deadliest diseases, killing more than 400,000 people annually, mostly children. 

Progress has been made through the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, improved case management for children and pregnant women, preventive medicine during peak transmission seasons, and monitoring insecticide resistance. 

According to the WHO,  2021 saw an estimated 247 million cases of malaria worldwide, resulting in approximately 619,000 deaths.  

The WHO Africa Region continues to carry a disproportionately high burden, accounting for 95 per cent of all malaria cases and 96 per cent of related deaths. 

 Children under five years old made up 79 per cent of malaria deaths in the region, it said. 

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by the plasmodium parasite.  

It is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, with the parasite first multiplying in the liver before attacking the red blood cells.  

Symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, convulsions, respiratory distress, and in severe cases, unconsciousness and abnormal bleeding. 

People with low or no immunity, particularly children and pregnant women, are most at risk.  

Prevention strategies include the use of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and antimalarial medications. 

Ghana has made significant strides in the fight against malaria, reducing prevalence from 27.5 per cent in 2011 to 8.6 per cent in 2022. 

 Testing rates have also improved significantly, from 38 per cent in 2012 to 98 per cent in 2022, resulting in a 95 per cent reduction in malaria-related deaths—from 2,799 deaths in 2012 to 151 in 2022. 

In 2024, Ghana recorded fewer than 300 malaria deaths, a substantial decline from over 2,000 deaths recorded a decade earlier.  

However, it is estimated that at least one person still dies from malaria in the country each day. 

GNA 

ABD 

Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson (Middle) meets investors in USA

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has assured global investors that the government is actively working to improve the country’s current economic situation and enhance macroeconomic stability.

According to him, the cedi has been relatively stable and has recently gained momentum against major trading currencies.

Dr Forson stated that he engaged with investors, shared updates on Ghana’s economic progress, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and macroeconomic stability.

“I assured them that the cedi has remained relatively stable and has begun appreciating since last week. Our reserve position is strong, currently covering over four months of import needs.

“These developments come ahead of the full operationalisation of the Ghana Goldbod, which is expected to enhance the cedi’s stability and support the accumulation of foreign exchange reserves. This progress is a testament to prudent economic management and our resilience,” he noted.

Dr Forson also highlighted that the Ghana Revenue Authority recorded strong gains in the first quarter of this year.

“Tax revenues exceeded targets by over 2.4 billion cedis. We are on track to achieve a 1.5% primary surplus this year. This reflects not only strong revenue performance but also disciplined spending. For example, allocations for goods and services have largely been maintained at 2023 levels.

“In short, we are exactly where we need to be. All indicators are trending in the right direction, but we are not complacent. We remain vigilant and committed to sustaining this momentum,” he said.

He further noted that the Bank of Ghana holds significant external reserves to meet coupon and interest payments as they fall due, ensuring continued confidence in the markets.

The Minister added that the government will outline the country’s debt management strategy in the upcoming mid-year budget review, aimed at supporting growth, sustainability, and investor confidence.

SSD/MA

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

President John Dramani Mahama has reassured Ghanaians of the improved health of Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, stating that she is recovering well and remains in high spirits.

Delivering remarks at the official launch of the government’s nationwide sanitary pad distribution initiative on Thursday, April 24, President Mahama acknowledged the Vice President’s absence and shared an update on her condition.

“I wish to extend the greetings of Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang to all of you. I spoke to her yesterday and I told her we were going to miss her at this event because this is a programme that is very dear to her,” he said.

“She said I should say hello to all of you and to say she is recuperating and catching a bit of rest. She is very well and soon she will join us to continue to prosecute the reset agenda,” he added.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s health became a public concern after she reportedly fell ill on Friday, March 28, 2025. She was admitted to the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) the following day for medical attention.

In a statement issued by the Office of the President on Sunday, March 30, it was confirmed that the Vice President had received the necessary treatment and was in stable condition.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications, noted in the release that doctors had recommended further medical evaluation abroad as a precaution, to ensure her full recovery.

Following that advice, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang began a three-week medical leave on April 7, 2025, focusing on her recovery and overall well-being.

Former Director of the National Signals Bureau, Kwabena Adu Boahene, and his wife have filed a defamation lawsuit against the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, over statements made during a press conference held on March 24, 2025.

In the suit, the plaintiffs allege that Dr. Ayine’s public remarks falsely portrayed them as criminals and fraudsters who had embezzled state funds and engaged in money laundering.

It added that these accusations have severely damaged their reputations and caused distress, public ridicule, and emotional harm, particularly affecting their children, who have reportedly faced taunts in school.

“The Defendant also published the full written text of the defamatory material on the worldwide internet,” the suit states, adding that the video of the press conference has been widely circulated on social media and news platforms, resulting in sustained negative public opinion against the couple.

The plaintiffs claim that Dr. Ayine, acting outside his constitutional mandate, deliberately sought to tarnish their image in the court of public opinion without due process. They further allege that his comments were made “recklessly and without regard to candour,” and that he worked in collaboration with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to arrest and detain them without allowing them to present their side of the story.

The statement of claim lists several grievances, including:

• Publicly branding the plaintiffs as criminals before any court ruling.
• Disseminating false allegations about the plaintiffs’ travel history and financial dealings.
• Violating national security laws by exposing sensitive matters.
• Using media theatrics to determine their guilt and suggest custodial sentences prematurely.

The plaintiffs argue that these actions were driven by malice and an abuse of authority, designed to cause maximum reputational harm.

They are therefore seeking the following reliefs:

1. Exemplary and punitive damages against the Defendant for publishing and/or broadcasting highly offensive, defamatory material of and concerning the Plaintiffs in his press conference dated the 24th day of March 2025.

ii. An order of perpetual injunction restraining the Defendant from further publishing and/or broadcasting or causing to be published and/or broadcast the said or similar words defamatory of the Plaintiff.

iii. Costs, including lawyer’s professional fees.

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.

President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the government plans to implement a resource management framework aimed at enhancing local participation in the natural resource sector.

He emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring that Ghanaians derive maximum benefit from mining and natural resource exploration.

The president made these remarks in relation to the recent renewal of the Gold Fields Damang Mine lease.

Speaking in a video posted by Citi TV on X, he said, “Recently, we had a little issue, which we have resolved, with one of our mining companies whose lease had expired after 30 years. It was our desire to take it over and use Ghanaian expertise to exploit that resource, allowing the benefits to remain in our country.

“Happily, we reached an amicable resolution to work together to transition the mine into Ghanaian ownership. This brings me to a broader point—I believe we must have an indigenisation program to take control of some of our natural resources. In the next few months, we’ll develop a policy on indigenous participation in natural resource exploitation.”

President John Dramani Mahama added that, moving forward, local stakeholders will be engaged to ensure Ghanaians benefit directly from the exploitation of the country’s resources.

He clarified that no one’s concession would be expropriated, but when leases come up for renewal, the government will negotiate for greater Ghanaian involvement.

“You go to the mining areas and look at the communities surrounding these mining centers, they are still steeped in poverty. The government is left to replace schools, plant trees, build CHPS compounds, repair roads, and more.

“We can only address these challenges if we secure more revenue from the natural resource endowments that God has given us. So yes, we will codify this policy, and as opportunities arise, we will renegotiate some of these arrangements to increase Ghanaian participation,” he said.

SSD/MA

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

Marriage counselor Reverend Nanayaa Prempeh

While the age-old debate over who cheats more in relationships continues, marriage counselor Reverend Nanayaa Prempeh has added her voice to the conversation, this time arguing that women are better at cheating in relationships than men.

Speaking during a discussion on Joy Prime on April 24, 2025, Nanayaa Prempeh acknowledged that although men tend to cheat more frequently, it is harder to catch women when they cheat.

According to her, this is because women are simply better at it.

“Women are more dangerous. I keep telling men that they think they can cheat, but when a woman cheats, you can never find out. Women are better cheaters than men, but men cheat more,” she said.

She further stated that women possess more power than men, but often fail to recognise or effectively use it.

“If a woman wants to be president, she can be a better president. You can give men the opportunity to be powerful and respect them, that’s all they need from you as a woman.

“Also, give them all the respect they deserve and take care of the home. Men always get to a point where they behave like babies,” she added.

JHM/MA

Watch as Ghanaians share their views on Chief Justice’s suspension

Paa Kwesi Asare has now joined the Bank of Ghana

From the vibrant hum of radio studios to the hallowed halls of Ghana’s central banking institution, Paa Kwesi Asare’s journey is one woven with grit, intellect, and a passion for impact.

In 2023, the world stood still to applaud him as he was named the winner of the prestigious BBC News Komla Dumor Award—an honor that not only recognized his journalistic excellence but also echoed the legacy of one of Africa’s most revered storytellers.

His name lit up international headlines when he became the first Ghanaian to win the prestigious Komla Dumor Award, nearly a decade after its inception. That historic moment took him to the BBC in London, where he spent three transformative months sharpening his craft and contributing to global journalism—a well-deserved honour that celebrated his depth, integrity, and voice.

But Paa Kwesi’s story didn’t begin there. For close to a decade, he was a pillar at TV3 Ghana, where he rose through the ranks to become the Head of Business News. As host of Business Focus, a weekly program dissecting Ghana’s economic landscape, and anchor of the network’s flagship evening bulletin, he brought clarity to complex issues and inspired trust across boardrooms and households alike.

His voice—firm yet thoughtful—has interviewed some of Ghana’s most iconic business minds, consistently pushing the envelope of economic journalism. Before TV3, he honed his skills across Ghana’s top radio stations—Joy FM, Citi FM, and Starr FM—where his versatility and depth earned him widespread respect.

Behind the scenes, Paa Kwesi was equally relentless in his pursuit of knowledge. He holds two master’s degrees: one in Public Administration from Auburn University in the United States, and another in Digital Marketing from Birmingham City University in the UK. His unique academic blend of governance and digital strategy positioned him perfectly for the future.

That future has now arrived. Paa Kwesi Asare has joined the Bank of Ghana, marking an inspiring transition from media to monetary policy, from shaping narratives to influencing national financial direction. His move is not just a personal achievement—it is a profound symbol of what is possible when talent meets tenacity.

In 2024, EMY Africa honored him for his outstanding contribution to society—a fitting recognition for a man who has consistently used his platform for the public good.

Paa Kwesi Asare’s journey from broadcaster to central banker is not just a change of roles; it is a compelling message to dreamers everywhere: no path is too distant, no reinvention too bold. It’s the story of a man who didn’t just report change—he became it.

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DjQwequ Blog of Thursday, 24 April 2025

Source: Emmanuel Jacob Amissah

By Jibril Abdul Mumuni

Accra, April 24, GNA – The banking sector in Ghana has experienced a notable 26 per cent decline in fraud cases in 2024, according to a new report from the Bank of Ghana.

The report said fraud incidents dropped from 969 cases in 2023 to 716 in 2024.

It attributed the trend to the strengthening of internal control mechanisms within banking institutions, which have played a crucial role in mitigating fraudulent activities.

However, despite the overall decline, certain fraud typologies have surged.

Automated Teller Machines (ATM), Point of Sale (POS) and Card fraud recorded an 80 percent increase, rising from 218 cases in 2023 to 415 in 2024.

Remittance fraud also doubled from five reported cases to ten within the same period.

The report linked the rise in ATM/POS/Card fraud and remittance scams to the growing adoption of digital financial products aimed at promoting financial inclusion.

However, it suggested that some customers’ limited understanding of the digital financial landscape could make them more vulnerable to these fraud types.

To address these challenges, the report stressed the need for banks to enhance security features on electronic payment channels and intensify public sensitisation campaigns.

It also noted a significant reduction in other fraud typologies.

Cash suppression, for instance, saw a dramatic 77 per cent decline, with cases falling from 87 in 2023 to 20 in 2024.

The report emphasized that the substantial decline highlights the effectiveness of enhanced internal control measures in combating specific types of fraud.

It urged banks to stay vigilant and continuously strengthen their control mechanisms to further reduce fraudulent activities in the sector.

GNA

KAS

A deadly confrontation between military personnel and civilians in Nyinahin, a community in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region, has left one person dead and four others injured.

The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, during the funeral of a young man in the town.

Three of the injured are currently receiving treatment at the Nyinahin Government Hospital, while one has been transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi for specialized care.

Speaking to Citi News, Assembly Member for the Nyinahin Bubuom Electoral Area, Clinton Darko, recounted that the altercation began when military personnel passing through the area encountered a group of young men dressed in military uniforms.

“The officers reportedly stopped and asked the young men to remove the uniforms,” Darko said. “That led to a heated exchange and ultimately a scuffle.”

The situation quickly spiraled out of control, with stones thrown and gunshots fired, resulting in the death of 37-year-old Akwasi Lala, popularly known as Kushibi. Four others sustained injuries in the chaos.

According to Darko, the military personnel fled the scene after the shooting. Police have since been deployed to the area to restore calm and launch investigations into the incident.

In 2017, Kenya rolled out a free sanitary pads programme for schoolgirls after an initial pilot in 2011. These six (6) challenges from Kenya are useful to Ghana as President Mahama launches a similar one:

1. Delayed supplies: In Kenya, sanitary pads sometimes arrive late in the term, leaving some girls without pads for days or weeks. This defeats the essence of the program, as poor girls may still stay at home for 4-5 days during menstruation. In Ghana, unlike free uniforms or free exercise books in secondary schools, which can be delayed for a year, pads are useless for the month when they arrive late. Timely distribution is critical to convert the sanitary pads from a procurement activity into an education intervention.
2. Unreliable Funding: In Kenya, the free sanitary pad programme relies on annual budget allocations that have repeatedly been cut or delayed. In Ghana, the Program is projected to cost GHC 292 million this year. While there is a GETFund allocation of GHC 25 million, over 90% of the funding is expected from the GoG, which is unpredictable and unreliable. Reliable funding is key to program relevance and sustainability. The Minister for Education should explore corporate support.
3. Decisions on distribution not sufficiently guided by data: In Kenya, there were instances where distribution lists did not match actual school enrolment data. When this happens, some schools receive more, while others receive less or none. Credible school enrolment data from GES must be used to guide the distribution plan.
4. Weak Monitoring & Accountability: In Kenya, there is no robust system to track the number of pads distributed, making accountability difficult. In Ghana, similar weak manual recordkeeping systems exist in the GES at the district level. Similar opacity exists under the Ghana School Feeding Programme. It is important to develop a digital inventory distribution system that allows for independent tracking of sanitary pads within the supply chain.
5. Poor Quality of Supplied Pads: In Kenya, evaluations found that many of the pads provided were too thin, tear easily, or lack adequate absorbency, leading girls to discard them and revert to unsafe alternatives (cloth rags, mattress foam). There are two factories producing pads in Ghana. Quality assurance by the Food and Drugs Authority is key.
6. Inadequate WASH Infrastructure: In Kenya, even when pads are available, most rural and peri-urban schools lack adequate Water And Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities-single sex toilet facilities, changing rooms for girls, water points, or disposal bins. Many girls stay home during their periods without safe spaces to change and dispose of used pads. In Ghana, about 60% of basic schools lack usable single sex toilets, including urban schools like Pantang Basic School near Adenta, where pupils visit the bush. The Ministry of Education must be deliberate in implementing a complementary plan to provide single sex toilet facilities with water and changing rooms for girls in all schools.

Conclusion

There is ample evidence in Africa suggesting that sanitary pads positively impact girls’ retention and improve menstrual health, especially in poverty-endemic areas. However, their effectiveness can be undermined by poor funding, supply chain breakdowns, infrastructure deficits, quality deficits, and weak oversight.

–

The author, Kofi Asare, is the Executive Director of Ghana’s foremost education-sector CSO, Africa Education Watch.

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.