The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has dismissed claims that its Minister, John Jinapor, is engaging in scaremongering over the country’s energy challenges, asserting that his recent statements to Parliament were factual and transparent.

The allegations were made by the Member of Parliament for Walewale, Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, who accused Jinapor of using alarmist tactics in managing the ongoing power crisis.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, May 17, Kabiru criticized what he described as the minister’s persistent fear-based messaging, urging a shift toward more constructive communication.

“Since he assumed office, it has been one alarm after the other,” Kabiru stated. “And I understand he is doing that because it gives him the leeway to award contracts without passing through procurement.

“My intelligence and oversight suggest that over GH₵200 million worth of sole-sourcing has been done without going through the right process. He should stop the scaremongering and be more of a hope monger.”

In a response on the same programme, the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Richmond Rockson, refuted the claims, insisting that Minister Jinapor’s remarks were aimed at providing Parliament with a candid overview of the energy sector’s current state.

“The Minister for Energy and Green Transition is not engaged in scaremongering,” Rockson stated.

He explained that the Minister’s comments were delivered during a briefing to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy on Thursday, May 15, during which he addressed several pressing issues—including Ghana’s rising energy sector debt, which stood at $3.1 billion as of December 2024—and concerns about fuel availability for thermal plants.

“He also disclosed that at the time he was speaking, it was left with 2.6 days, and that his headache was how to find money and that fuel had been procured,” Rockson explained. “It’s unfortunate that that point the minister made was not captured, but consistently the media reported the 2.6 days and failed to report that the minister there and then said that fuel had been procured.”

Rockson emphasised that the Minister’s statements were a call for deeper reforms to ensure long-term sustainability in the sector.

“[He said] We need to find sustainable ways to procure fuel because we can’t keep going back to the Ministry of Finance, and there are structural reforms that we should look at. If it means that we should take a second look at the tariff structure, which is currently before Cabinet, we will do that,” Rockson added.

Rejecting Kabiru’s characterisation of Jinapor’s remarks as fear tactics, Rockson reiterated the Minister’s commitment to transparency.

“So it is not accurate if he [Kabiru Mahama] keeps saying that the minister is scaremongering. What the minister did was to be truthful to the parliamentary select committee,” he emphasised.

Stop scaremongering and offer solutions – Kabiru slams Jinapor

Vehicle owners and transport operators are likely to see a reduction in the prices of spare parts in the coming days as the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association in the Greater Accra Region has instructed members to slash prices.

The association instructed its dealers to take this action following significant gains by the cedi in relation to other major international currencies, especially the dollar.

This action is likely to bring relief to consumers, with the expectation of a reduction in transport fares, as the majority of the parameters that determine the cost of goods and services continue to decline.

This has been possible due to geopolitical events in the last few weeks weakening the dollar and significant strides by the Mahama government to stabilise the local currency.

The association has praised the government for taking bold and decisive steps to strengthen the local currency, such as an increase in reserves and increased gold exports through the newly created Godbod.

“We pledge our full collaboration with the government to sustain this positive trend and ensure further appreciation of the Cedi, bringing much-needed economic relief to Ghanaians,” said the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Henry Okyere Jnr.

He further entreated all members to abide by the directive to cut prices of goods in stock.

This is expected to reinforce their collective commitment to fair pricing and market stability.

Prior to the cuts, the Minister for Trade, Industry and Agribusiness, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, engaged traders and encouraged them to adjust prices to reflect the latest developments.

Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNews a week ago, the Minister explained that Ghana operates a liberal market system where the government does not fix prices.

“We all know that in Ghana, we don’t control prices, and so the government cannot really push price reduction on them. But because we work together, we can always discuss and see how the stable cedi will benefit both consumers and traders,” she stated.

She pointed out that traders have often increased their prices when the dollar goes up, so it is only fair for them to adjust prices now that the cedi has appreciated.
“If the dollar is this stable and has appreciated this much, I think that we need to regroup and see the way forward,” she stated.

Madam Ofosu-Adjare praised the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) for taking the initiative to engage its members on possible price reductions. “I commend GUTA for even taking the step to prevail on the traders to reduce the cost of their goods. So I think at that meeting, we will brainstorm and come to a very good conclusion which will benefit both traders and consumers,” she said.

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.

Bullgod has shared details of his final interaction with Dada KD

Ghanaian talent manager and entertainment pundit Bullgod has shared details of his final interaction with Highlife legend Dada KD, just hours before the musician’s passing.

Speaking on UTV’s United Showbiz, Bullgod revealed that he had spoken to Dada KD on the morning of the day he died.

According to him, they were discussing preparations for an upcoming event in London.

“I spoke to Dada KD the day he died, in the morning. I was booking him for an event in London, but during our phone conversation, his voice was not clear, it was shaky, and he told me he wasn’t feeling too well. So, I told him I would leave him for now, and we’d continue the discussion in the evening,” Bullgod recounted.

He added that after noticing the change in Dada KD’s tone and health, he followed up with the artiste’s manager to ensure plans for the visa application were still on track.

“I later called his manager and told him I had just spoken to Dada KD about the event, but I realised he wasn’t feeling well, so maybe the following day we could arrange to submit the visa application. But the manager assured me that in about an hour, he would prepare Dada KD so they could go and get the visa,” he added.

Tragically, Bullgod said that later that same evening, he received a phone call from his UK-based partner, Ransford, informing him that Dada KD had suddenly passed away. He described the news as a complete shock.

Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:

AK/MA

For his consistency in professional news presentation, ability to captivate audiences, and conduct engaging interviews, TV3’s Martin Asiedu-Dartey has been named News Presenter of the Year 2025 at the Ghana Executive Awards.

Martin joins a group of accomplished professionals from academia, business, agriculture, civil society, media, and non-governmental organisations who were recognised for their outstanding performance in their respective fields.

“It is a humbling experience to be recognized for doing something you are passionate about. Usually, people see or hear you on TV or radio for maybe 30 minutes or an hour, but before that moment are countless hours of research, combing through documents, cross-checking information, making calls, and several other things just to prepare for that brief moment before the respected audience.

“So to be awarded for doing something you love is an indirect way of saying, ‘we see you, we recognize you, keep giving off your best.’ And that is quite heartwarming,” Martin said after receiving the News Presenter of the Year 2025 award over the weekend at the plush Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra.

The jury considered both the direct and indirect impact of nominees on society, as well as how professionally they met the expectations of their audiences, customers, and business stakeholders.

The Ghana Executive Awards 2025, which marked its maiden edition, also honoured several multinational and local companies such as Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, GCB Bank, Omni BSIC Bank Ghana Ltd, and industry leaders in telecom and cybersecurity for their significant impact.

With over 14 years of experience in the Ghanaian media industry—spanning radio, print, online, and now television—Martin Asiedu-Dartey is a household name. He is best known for anchoring TV3’s News 360, where he has become a familiar and trusted face.

He expressed gratitude to the management and leadership of Media General, the parent company of TV3 Network Ltd, for giving him the platform to serve and showcase his God-given talent. Martin also acknowledged his co-anchors, producers, and the entire news team at Media General for their continued support.

Over the years, Martin has interviewed personalities across sectors, including government officials, CEOs, and international newsmakers. His ability to ask well-researched questions and elicit relevant responses has earned him the respect of both his peers and his audience.

As TV3’s Foreign Affairs Correspondent, he has reported on cross-border trade challenges within ECOWAS, recent military coups in West Africa, and ECOWAS summits on regional integration. His coverage extends to Ghana’s diplomatic engagements with other countries and participation in international bodies such as the African Union and the United Nations.

Martin holds a Master’s Degree in International Journalism for Digital Media from the University of Salford, UK, and is currently pursuing another Master’s degree in International Relations at the University of Gold Coast.

He said the award is a motivation to continue giving his best and maintaining high standards in broadcast journalism.

The Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association in the Greater Accra Region has instructed its members to reduce the prices of spare parts, citing the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi against the US dollar under the new John Dramani Mahama-led administration.

The decision is intended to offer relief to customers and support the government’s efforts to stabilise the prices of goods and services nationwide.

The Association lauded the government for taking bold and decisive steps to strengthen the local currency and stabilise the broader economy.

“We pledge our full collaboration with the government to sustain this positive trend and ensure further appreciation of the Cedi, bringing much-needed economic relief to Ghanaians,” said the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Henry Okyere Jnr.

He also urged all members to strictly comply with the new pricing adjustments, reinforcing their collective commitment to fair pricing and market stability.

The Association believes that this move reflects its dedication to supporting national economic recovery and ensuring affordability for consumers.

Stop scaremongering and offer solutions – Kabiru slams Jinapor

The commitment was reinforced at the ECG Third-Party Vendors Forum

Private vendors of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have pledged their continued partnership with the state-owned power distributor, embracing advanced digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer service.

The commitment was reinforced at the ECG Third-Party Vendors Forum, held at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, bringing together 350 vendors, ECG officials, and digital technology partner TextGenesys Ltd (TGL Systems).

The forum highlighted the success of the TGL digital platform, “Unified Vending,” which has revolutionised prepaid electricity purchases by enabling seamless transactions, instant commission redemptions for vendors, and greater transparency in revenue collection.

The Unified Vending platform, developed in collaboration with GCB Bank, provides a secure, unified system for prepaid electricity credit purchases and bill payments nationwide.

Managing Director, TextGenesys Ltd (TGL Systems), Jeremiah Brown-Coleman, stressed that through the platform developed in partnership with GCB Bank, the platform is empowering the private electricity vendors of the ECG to offer unified, secure, and convenient prepaid electricity credit purchases and bill payment collections to millions of customers across the country.

“This digital solution simplifies the revenue collection process, ensuring real-time reconciliation, and most importantly, strengthens ECG’s revenue collection mechanisms,” he said.

Managing Director of ECG, Ing. Julius Kwame Kpekpena, in a speech read on his behalf, indicated that the forum, born out of collaboration between TextGenesys Ltd, GCB Bank PLC, the proud members of the Private Electricity Vendors Association, and the ECG, is a celebration of the power of digital transformation in revenue mobilisation and customer experience enhancement within the Ghana power sector.

He reiterated that the forum marks a turning point, a new chapter of inclusivity, professionalism, and transformation within the ECG revenue collection ecosystem.

The ECG MD further stressed that the partnership with TGL Systems underscored ECG’s commitment to leveraging technology and private-sector collaboration to improve service delivery and financial accountability in Ghana’s power sector.

Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan-Mensah, highlighted the government’s dedication to resolving longstanding challenges in the power sector, assuring stakeholders that the private sector participation (PSP) initiative will bolster ECG’s operations while safeguarding public interest.

He elaborated that to ensure a smooth transition, the ministry has established a technical committee to evaluate prospective private partners.

“While PSP is not a cure-all, collaboration remains essential to achieving our goals,” Gyan-Mensah emphasised.

As part of their 25th anniversary celebrations, the Ɔdadeɛ 2000 group of the prestigious Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC-Legon)  has announced plans to renovate the school’s kitchen and introduce a sustainable green energy system.

A member of the group, Alain Gbeasor shared details of the project during the anniversary launch event which took place in the school on Saturday, May 17. He explained that the initiative is aimed at improving the living and learning conditions of students on campus while also promoting sustainability.

“As part of our 25 years anniversary celebrations, we are embarking on a programme to renovate our kitchen and then create a sustainable green energy kitchen,” he said.

Mr Gbeasor stated that the group plans to completely retool and retrofit the kitchen area to give it a modern feel and make it more efficient.

“We are going to retool the kitchen area and retrofit it for the students to showcase that Presec is the school of the future, and our dining hall will be properly set up.”

He also mentioned the construction of a new space for kitchen staff, which will include resting areas, offices, and changing rooms.

“We are building an ultramodern area for our kitchen staff so they can relax. They can have offices, changing rooms.”

One of the highlights of the project is the introduction of a biogas system to power the kitchen making Presec one of the first schools in Ghana to run a fully green kitchen.

“We are also doing a biogas kitchen. You know, that will be one of the first schools in Ghana that is going fully green on the utilisation of our kitchen.”

He said the group hopes the facilities will not only benefit the current students but also show that Presec is committed to innovation and progress.

“We hope that these resources in place will make Presec the school that indeed we want to make of it.”

The project forms part of a broader effort by the old students to give back to their alma mater and ensure it remains one of the leading institutions in the country.

This is a significant step towards Ghana’s target of improving clean cooking methods aiming at a 50% LGP usage penetration by 2030.

Currently, around 54.3% of households still rely on solid biomass for cooking with 31.1% depending on firewood and 23.2% on charcoal using inefficient rudimentary stoves. This exposes millions, especially women and children, to harmful indoor air pollution, while accelerating environmental degradation.

Fuelwood consumption has been a major driver of deforestation. Over 90% of Ghana’s original 8.22 million hectares of natural forest has been lost due to logging and fuelwood production. Increasing access to clean cooking solutions, particularly through LPG promotion, offers a strategic pathway to reduce deforestation, protect biodiversity, and mitigate climate change impacts.

Indoor air pollution remains a major public health challenge. An estimated 20.5 million Ghanaians, over 70% of the population, burn solid fuels like wood, charcoal, and dung for cooking and heating, often in poorly ventilated spaces.

This results in the release of harmful pollutants, including black carbon (BC)  a potent short-lived climate pollutant. In 2017, Ghana’s total black carbon emissions were 16.5 kilotons, with residential cooking contributing 78% of that amount. Rural households, particularly in the forest regions, accounted for 74% of black carbon emissions from cooking, while peri-urban households contributed the remaining 26%.

Household air pollution is responsible for approximately 16,000 premature deaths annually in Ghana, with 8,500 deaths in urban areas and 7,600 in rural areas. Respiratory and cardiopulmonary diseases, often linked to inhalation of particulate matter, lead to increased hospital visits and economic burdens on families and the health system. Using LPG, a cleaner-burning fuel, is a feasible and highly effective intervention to improve air quality, reduce health risks, and lower household black carbon emissions.

The Government of Ghana (GoG) has implemented various initiatives to combat this:

The Rural LPG Cooking Fuel Promotion Program (RLPGPP) (2013–2017) helped 151,500 rural households adopt LPG, increasing rural LPG access from 5.5% in 2013 to 7.7% in 2016.

Following lessons learned, GoG developed the National LPG Promotion Program (NLPGPP) to scale LPG access across rural, urban, and peri-urban areas.

The LPG Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), launched in 2017, aims to restructure the marketing and distribution of LPG to make it safer, more accessible, and affordable.

These efforts contribute to Ghana’s broader energy and climate goals outlined in the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Country Action Plan (2012), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs-2015), Renewable Energy Master Plan (2019), and the National Energy Policy (2022).

Despite significant progress, many Ghanaian households continue to face barriers to adopting clean cooking technologies. High LPG refill costs, long distances to filling stations, safety concerns, cultural preferences for traditional cooking methods, and limited financing options hamper progress.

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.

Marketing is often perceived as a tool for driving profits in the private sector. However, its principles are increasingly being recognised as essential to public governance and national development. Marketing is fundamentally about understanding and responding to the needs of target audiences—in this case, the citizens of a country. For Ghana, embracing a marketing-oriented approach at the governmental and institutional level could offer innovative solutions to long-standing socio-economic challenges. It provides a framework for aligning public services, national production, and trade policies with the evolving needs and aspirations of the population, thereby enhancing self-reliance and economic resilience.

Marketing as a Strategic Tool for Governance

Governments across the world are adopting marketing principles to better connect with citizens, design policies that resonate with public needs, and promote national products and services. This practice—sometimes called public sector marketing—entails applying techniques such as market research, segmentation, targeting, and strategic communication to policy formulation and implementation. In countries like Singapore and Rwanda, marketing strategies have been effectively deployed to build national brands, promote tourism, attract foreign investment, and drive citizen engagement.

For Ghana, the application of marketing principles could help address inefficiencies in the public sector and promote more inclusive economic growth. Public institutions must understand the unique needs of different demographic groups and tailor interventions accordingly. For instance, housing policies, educational initiatives, and health campaigns are more effective when they are based on thorough market research and strategic communication that takes into account cultural preferences and behavioral insights.

Domestic Production and Consumption: A Mismatch?

Ghana continues to import a substantial portion of goods that could otherwise be produced locally, especially agricultural products such as rice, poultry, and vegetables. This trend suggests a disconnect between local production and consumer needs. A marketing-led approach would involve conducting comprehensive research to understand what Ghanaians consume, in what quantities, and with what preferences. For example, rice is a staple food for many households, yet large quantities of rice are still imported annually. The key questions are: Which varieties are most preferred? Can local farmers be supported with the right seeds, training, and infrastructure to meet this demand?

This kind of demand-driven production strategy would not only reduce import dependency but also create jobs, improve food security, and retain capital within the national economy. Marketing helps identify value gaps, develop branding strategies for local goods, and create awareness campaigns to change consumption behaviors in favor of domestic products.

Globalization, Culture, and Responsible Consumption

Globalization has introduced a wide array of foreign goods, services, and cultural practices into Ghanaian society. This influence is visible in changing consumption patterns, particularly among the youth, who are increasingly drawn to global brands and foreign cuisines. The proliferation of instant noodle joints in urban areas, often at the expense of traditional meals like Ga kenkey, illustrates this cultural shift.

Rather than resisting globalization, Ghana should aim to participate actively in it by projecting its cultural and economic assets to the world. Marketing plays a vital role in this process. Through branding and storytelling, traditional foods, crafts, fashion, and cultural expressions can be packaged for both local appreciation and global markets. Moreover, public awareness campaigns should be designed to encourage responsible consumption, emphasizing health, cultural identity, and national pride.

Export Promotion and Market Expansion

To reduce dependency on aid and imports, Ghana must strategically position itself as an exporter of goods and services. Marketing research can help identify target markets for Ghanaian products—whether it be cocoa, shea butter, textiles, or processed foods. For each product, it is essential to understand who the potential consumers are, what their preferences are, and how Ghana can meet international quality standards.

Moreover, the government can adopt a more deliberate approach to international business through economic diplomacy and trade agreements. For example, Ghana’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers an unprecedented opportunity to expand intra-African trade. A coordinated marketing effort, led by the Ministry of Trade and Industry in partnership with local producers, could boost exports by promoting Ghanaian products in regional markets and beyond.

In addition to promotional campaigns, logistical and infrastructural support is vital to ensure products reach their intended destinations. This includes investments in transport, warehousing, digital marketing, and trade facilitation services.

Conclusion: Toward a Marketing-Led Development Agenda

Marketing is not a silver bullet, but it is an underutilized tool in Ghana’s development toolkit. When used strategically, it can enhance the responsiveness of government institutions, stimulate domestic production, preserve cultural identity, and position Ghana competitively in the global marketplace. It enables both the public and private sectors to operate in closer alignment with the needs, values, and aspirations of Ghanaians.

To harness the full potential of marketing, there must be a deliberate effort to build capacity in public sector marketing, support market research institutions, and foster collaboration between policymakers, academics, and businesses. Ultimately, development must be citizen-centered, and marketing offers the tools to make that a reality.

Dr. Ibn Kailan Abdul-Hamid
Head of Marketing Department
University of Professional Studies, Accra
[email protected]

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects global public debt will reach 100% of worldwide GDP by 2030, surpassing pandemic-era levels and threatening severe economic instability, particularly for developing economies like Ghana.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva issued the warning during a conference on public debt transparency, stressing that urgent reforms are needed to avert systemic risks.

“By the end of the decade, we would owe as much as we generate in one year—a scenario worse than the COVID-19 peak,” Georgieva stated. While advanced economies face challenges, emerging markets bear the brunt, with debt servicing costs crowding out critical investments in healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Ghana exemplifies this strain: after defaulting on external debt in 2022, the country embarked on a rigorous IMF-backed restructuring program. Though showing signs of recovery, rising global interest rates and reduced concessional financing threaten progress.

Georgieva highlighted initiatives like the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable, which aims to streamline coordination between creditors and debtors, alongside calls for enhanced debt transparency and legal frameworks. “Without action, debt-fueled vulnerabilities could trigger another crisis,” she cautioned, noting shrinking fiscal space amid growing development needs.

For Ghana, where debt repayments consume significant revenue, balancing creditor obligations with public services remains precarious. The IMF’s push for systemic reforms seeks to mitigate these pressures, but experts warn delays could deepen disparities, leaving developing nations most vulnerable.

Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association have been tasked to reduce prices of goods

The Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association has directed its members to reduce the prices of spare parts to reflect the recent gains of the Ghanaian cedi.

In a press release dated Sunday, May 18, 2025, and sighted by GhanaWeb Business, the association stated that the price reduction is aimed at providing relief to customers and supporting the government’s broader efforts to stabilise the economy and reduce the cost of living.

This announcement comes on the back of the consistent appreciation of the cedi against the US dollar on both the interbank and forex markets.

According to the Chairman of the Association, Henry Okyere Jnr, the government’s decisive actions in strengthening the local currency and restoring macroeconomic stability are commendable, hence the association’s intention to respond accordingly.

The association emphasised that the move reflects its commitment to supporting national economic recovery efforts while ensuring that spare parts remain affordable for consumers.

Meanwhile, Okyere Jnr has appealed to all members to comply with the directive on price adjustments, reinforcing their commitment to fair pricing and market stability.

SP/MA

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Africa possesses vast potential for innovation, but its ability to leverage this creativity into sustained economic growth is hampered by a lack of scalable systems and supportive ecosystems.

This was the key message from Ghana’s former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, speaking at the Cambridge Africa Business Conference on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

Addressing the conference themed ‘Africa’s Digital Transformation: Building Resilient Economies Through Innovation,’ Dr. Bawumia was emphatic, stating, “Africa does not lack innovation. We lack systems that scale it. We do not lack ideas. We lack ecosystems that reward and retain them. We do not lack ambition. We lack access to capital, infrastructure, and trust.”

He elaborated that despite a wealth of creative minds and entrepreneurial spirit, the absence of crucial supporting structures like reliable infrastructure, sufficient access to capital, and a strong culture of trust impedes the growth and sustainability of African ventures.

Dr. Bawumia cast a vision of a future where African innovations are not isolated exceptions but integrated components of the global economy. He presented scenarios such as a tech start-up in Nairobi effortlessly serving clients in São Paulo, or a shea butter cooperative in Tamale selling directly to buyers in Tokyo, potentially utilizing tools like blockchain for traceability.

He stressed that African innovations must become the expected norm. To achieve this, he urged African nations to prioritize the development of robust systems and nurturing ecosystems capable of scaling innovations and unlocking the continent’s full economic potential.

Turning his focus to Ghana, Dr. Bawumia hailed the country’s significant strides in digital financial services, identifying it as the fastest-growing mobile money market across the African continent. He credited the implementation of mobile money interoperability (MMI) as a transformative “game-changer” in Ghana’s financial landscape.

Recounting the policy’s origin, he explained, “We asked the questions: why can’t we make it possible to send mobile money across different telephone companies and also why can’t the mobile money account function like a bank account by making it interoperable with bank accounts? The answer to these questions was the implementation of groundbreaking mobile money interoperability (MMI) across all banks and telcos.“

He noted that the introduction of MMI now allows Ghanaians to move funds seamlessly between mobile money accounts, regardless of the service provider, and crucially, between mobile money wallets and traditional bank accounts. This interoperability, he argued, has effectively transformed mobile money wallets into functional bank accounts, drastically expanding access to financial services nationwide.

Dr. Bawumia proudly declared, “Ghana is the first country in Africa and one of a very few in the world to achieve this type of interoperability between bank accounts and mobile wallets.”

Dr. Bawumia’s address stated the dual challenge of creating supportive environments for innovation across Africa while highlighting Ghana’s specific success story as a model for digital transformation.

Richard Gyan-Mensah, Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition

Government is set to transfer key aspects of the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) operations – specifically power distribution and revenue mobilisation – to a private sector partner as part of a broader strategy to improve operational efficiency and curb financial losses.

Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition Richard Gyan-Mensah disclosed the plan during an ECG Vendors Forum held in Accra.

He clarified that the initiative is not a full privatisation of ECG but a private sector participation (PSP) model designed to attract private investment, introduce innovation and stem inefficiencies.

“We are partnering with the private sector to build a resilient energy industry that supports economic growth,” Gyan-Mensah stated. “However, government will ensure Ghanaian consumers are not short-changed.”

The move comes amid ongoing challenges in the energy sector, including widespread power theft and persistent revenue leakage.

According to the minister, the new PSP arrangement is expected to plug these losses by bringing in the technical expertise and operational rigour of the private sector.

To oversee a seamless transition, the ministry has constituted a technical committee to assess proposals from interested private entities and recommend the most suitable partner.

Gyan-Mensah stressed that while the PSP approach offers solutions, success will depend on collaboration between public and private stakeholders.

Digital innovation in revenue collection

The ECG Vendors Forum brought together over 350 vendors, ECG officials and representatives from digital technology partner TextGenesys Ltd. (TGL Systems) – the company behind ECG’s digital vending platform ‘Unfield Vending’.

The platform, developed in partnership with GCB Bank, has modernised power credit purchases; allowing vendors to self-redeem commissions while enabling ECG to reconcile payments in real-time.

The system is credited with improving transparency and simplifying bill payments for millions of customers.

TGL Systems Managing Director Jeremiah Brown-Coleman highlighted the technology’s significance in addressing ECG’s long-standing revenue collection issues.

“This digital solution simplifies the revenue collection process and ensures secure, real-time reconciliation. Most importantly, it strengthens ECG’s revenue collection mechanisms,” he said.

ECG Managing Director Julius Kwame Kpekpena lauded the forum as a pivotal moment in the transformation of ECG’s operational landscape.

“This marks a new chapter of inclusivity, professionalism and innovation within ECG’s revenue collection ecosystem,” he noted.

Government maintains that the PSP model will be implemented with utmost care to ensure it benefits consumers while advancing Ghana’s broader energy transition and economic development agenda.

Communities in Ghana’s Upper East and Upper West regions are expected to benefit from a set of interventions under the newly launched BORDER Project, spearheaded by World Vision Ghana.

The initiative, which aims to promote development and strengthen regional stability, is being implemented in collaboration with RACED Ghana and with funding support from the PATRIP Foundation.

The project is targeting some of the most vulnerable areas along Ghana’s northern frontier, including Zini, Fielmo, and the Zini Refugee Camp in the Sissala West District; Bansi and Issakatinga in the Binduri District; and Tarikom, along with the Tarikom Refugee Camp in the Bawku West District.

These communities were selected due to their growing exposure to climate shocks, severe food insecurity, environmental degradation, and an increasing influx of refugees from neighbouring Burkina Faso.

The strain on already limited resources has intensified socio-economic pressures, heightening the risk of social tensions and threatening local peace and cohesion.

A press statement issued on Friday, May 16, 2025, revealed that the BORDER Project will directly benefit 19,219 individuals, comprising 13,454 Ghanaians and 5,765 Burkinabe refugees and is expected to indirectly impact an additional 33,657 residents across the five target communities and two refugee settlements.

Key interventions under the BORDER Project include the provision and rehabilitation of solar-powered water systems, construction of biofill ecological sanitation facilities for homes, schools, and health centres, refurbishment of healthcare facilities, with a focus on maternal and child health, establishment of drip irrigation systems to support year-round farming and training of farmers in climate-smart agricultural techniques.

It also seeks to promote sustainable land use through Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs) and build capacity for traditional leaders, local authorities, and security personnel in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

The BORDER Project is aligned with Ghana’s National Development Plan 2030, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Gulf of Guinea Joint Response Plan. By investing in essential infrastructure and building the capacity of local communities, the initiative seeks to trigger a lasting ripple effect of peace, prosperity, and resilience across Ghana’s border regions and the wider West African sub-region.

Acting CEO of the FWSC, Dr George Smith-Graham

The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has proposed the introduction of an hourly wage system across all sectors as a means of enhancing earnings for casual workers and promoting fairer compensation practices.

Dr George Smith-Graham, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the FWSC, made this suggestion during a familiarisation visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions.

As part of its visit, the Committee also engaged with the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) and the Management Development and Productivity Institute (MDPI).

According to Dr Smith-Graham, implementing an hourly wage structure could help formalise informal work arrangements, increase disposable income for low-wage earners, and expand access to social protection.

“If we begin to look at an hourly wage structure, it will allow casual workers to be better compensated for their time and could help reduce income inequalities in the labour market,” he stated.

He added that the approach would bring greater transparency to wage calculations for both employers and employees.

During discussions with the NPRA, officials informed the Committee of existing provisions that allow permanently unemployed individuals aged 50 and above to access their Tier-2 pension funds, subject to employer verification and Labour Department approval.

Chief Executive Officer of the National Pensions and Regulatory Authority (NPRA), Chris Boadi-Mensah also called for a review of Ghana’s retirement age, proposing an increase from 60 to 65 years.

He warned that the current pension system could face long-term financial instability and emphasized the need for reforms to prevent misuse and ensure sustainability.

ID/MA

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RoyalNews360 Blog of Sunday, 18 May 2025

Source: Boateng Kakape Nana

The price of kenkey is said to have reduced in some areas in the country

A Ghanaian man has heaped praises on President John Dramani Mahama after buying a ball of kenkey for GH¢3 at Agyemang Pentecost Junction in Labadi Town.

In a video that has gone viral on X, the man is seen purchasing two balls of kenkey, which were placed in a bowl.

Upon being informed that the price had dropped to GH¢3, he burst into celebration, shouting joyfully and singing while invoking President Mahama’s name in gratitude.

The man expressed deep appreciation to the president for putting measures in place to ensure that food prices became more affordable.

He added that with the current economic rebound, he believed the price of kenkey would soon fall further to GH¢2, with other food items also seeing price reductions.

“A ball of kenkey is GH¢3? John Mahama, Onaapo! Within the next two or three months, it will be GH¢2. God bless you,” he exclaimed.

This reaction comes amid recent appreciation of the cedi against the US dollar.

According to the Bank of Ghana, the cedi is currently trading at a buying price of GH¢12.31 and a selling price of GH¢12.32 to the dollar.

SB/MA

Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary-General of the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO), has called for a radical reorientation of Africa’s energy policies, stressing that universal access to electricity must become a non-negotiable priority to drive continental development.

Speaking at the 2024 Africa Sustainable Energy Dialogue, he dismissed poverty as the root cause of the continent’s energy crisis, instead blaming systemic leadership failures and misplaced priorities.

“If we commit to making energy accessible to our people, for homes, for industries, everything else will follow,” Dr. Ibrahim declared during the virtual event organized by the Africa Sustainable Energy Center (ASEC). The dialogue, themed “Bridging Africa’s Energy Access Gap: Challenges, Innovations and Path Forward,” convened experts who critiqued Africa’s reliance on exporting 75% of its oil and 45% of its gas while 600 million citizens lack electricity. “The real beneficiaries are not the masses but the elite,” he asserted.

Dr. Alfred Ofosu Ahenkorah, former Executive Secretary of Ghana’s Energy Commission, underscored the role of political commitment, citing Ghana’s leap from 19% electricity access in 1989 to over 87% today. “Access to energy is a matter of leadership. No individual electrifies a country. Government must lead the charge,” he stated.

Panelists dissected structural barriers, from colonial-era infrastructure designed to extract resources rather than serve populations to modern-day corruption and underfunding. Monique Motty of the African Development Bank noted, “We’re navigating systems that weren’t built for us,” while Professor Abubakar Sambo, a former Nigerian presidential energy adviser, described a “complex web” of aging grids, mismanaged subsidies, and policy inertia.

Kweku Andoh Awotwi, Board Chairman of United Bank for Africa-Ghana, highlighted flawed financing models: “Electricity is seen as a social good without sustainability, leading to grid failures.” He criticized the lag in adopting affordable solar solutions due to financially unstable power sectors.

The dialogue concluded with a consensus: technical solutions exist, but political courage is lacking. Participants urged governments to prioritize decentralized renewables, reframe energy access as a fundamental right, and invest in policies centered on public welfare over elite interests.