The newly appointed Western Regional Coordinator of the National Service Authority (NSA), Daniel Dawusu, has responded confidently to tensions surrounding his posting to the region, following protests by a group of youth claiming allegiance to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over his appointment.

In an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Wednesday, April 16, Dawusu confirmed that the Director General of the NSA is fully aware of the situation and has advised him to proceed with his duty as a public servant.

He further revealed that although an official complaint has been lodged with the police in the region, he has not requested personal security.

This, he explained, is because the youth maintain that he is not their target, but are simply appealing to the government to meet their demand of appointing an indigene.

“My Director General is very much aware of this. His response to the situation is that I am on transfer, and I am a public servant, so I should go and work.

“Somehow, I am afraid, but I do not think they will harm me, because from what I have seen, the youth are saying that I am not their target, but they just want their person to be appointed.

“So I am not afraid. I have gone to make a formal complaint, but I have not asked for any security yet.”He stated

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has begun regrouping with full force for a political comeback in 2028.

According to the party’s Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, the party is not just reflecting but preparing to fight and take back power from what he described as “this very incompetent government.”

Appearing on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, April 16, Haruna Mohammed declared, “We are very focused. We are very determined. We are very sure.

“Based on the discussions that we had before the presentation of the report, we are prepared to fight on in 2028.”

He revealed that the party’s National Council met to receive a report from a committee chaired by Professor Mike Ocquaye.

That committee had been tasked with two missions: to investigate the reasons behind the party’s defeat in the 2024 elections and to recommend structural reforms.

“You remember that on the second of January, we had a National Council. An ad hoc committee was set up to look at two issues. One is to look at the reasons why we lost in the 2024 general elections. And the second is to look at possible amendments and restructuring of the party,” he explained.

The committee was given three months. “April 16 was the day for the submission of the report of Professor Mike Ocquaye,” he said.

“The National Council, before then, had a National Executive Committee meeting to deliberate on other matters. Then we proceeded to the Council, where this report was submitted.”

According to Haruna Mohammed, the meeting was charged with energy and purpose.

“Knowing the NPP from wherever we have come from, the members at National Council were very focused, were very determined and very sure,” he said.

“It showed how resilient and prepared we are to wrestle power from this very incompetent government.”

He was unapologetic in his language, describing the current administration in no uncertain terms.

“This incompetent government must be replaced. We are ready. The NPP is coming back,” he said.

For him, the party’s revival is rooted in tradition.

“The move of the people did stand with the tradition and history of the New Patriotic Party,” he emphasised.

Haruna Mohammed signalled that the NPP is preparing for a fierce return to power, stressing the tone from the party’s leadership is shifting from reflection to confrontation.

“We know where we fell. We know what went wrong. And now we are going to rise again,” he 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.

Yango Ghana, part of global technology company Yango Group, is excited to announce the winners of the 2nd edition of the Yango Digital Mobility Awards in Ghana.

The awards event which took place on Thursday, 10th April 2025 at the Marriott Hotel in Accra aimed to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Yango’s Partners, Partner’s drivers, passengers and other stakeholders who have made significant contributions to the digital mobility sector in Ghana.

“As a part of the global tech company Yango Group, we are committed to creating meaningful impact. So far, we have contributed to the creation of over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, supported more than 20,000 families, and facilitated millions of rides for individuals and small to medium-sized enterprises across Ghana.

We encourage more fleet partners, investors, and financial institutions to join us as we grow together — bolstering job creation and providing sustainable earning opportunities in the market,” said Mr. Tom Ofonime, Country Manager for Yango Ride in Ghana.

Bishop Dr. Samuel Antwi-Gyekyi, Director of ICT, representing the Minister of Communication, highlighted the government’s commitment to developing digital mobility platforms like Yango in Ghana.

He stressed the importance of fostering an environment for digital innovation, which can enhance transportation efficiency and local economic growth.

He emphasized the need for collaboration among the government, private sector, and stakeholders to meet regulatory standards and adapt to the needs of Ghanaians.

He noted that the strategy will focus on policies promoting technological advancement while ensuring safety, accessibility, and sustainability in digital transportation.

The awards event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to foster dialogue and collaboration in the rapidly evolving digital mobility ecosystem with Yango

Ghana reinstating its commitment to compliance with local regulations, data protection and privacy.

Mr. Ernest Dogbe was adjudged the YDMA “Driver of the Year”. He drove home a brand new Suzuki S-Presso car, which was the ultimate prize on the night. The other top 9 drivers received smartphones, fuel vouchers, free diagnostics,servicing vouchers and other prizes.

“I am honored to be named Driver of the Year at the Yango Digital Mobility Awards. This recognition reflects not just my dedication, but the support that the platform provides to drivers like me. It has transformed how we connect with passengers, making our efforts not only more efficient but also more rewarding. Yango has empowered me with reliable tools and resources allowing me to provide better service to my customers. I look forward to continuing this journey and being part of a community in the mobility industry. ,” he said.

Another big winner for the night is Mr.Immortal, CEO of Foodstuff Home who was adjudged the Partner of the Year, expressed gratitude to Yango for honoring and appreciating his contribution to the ride hailing and digital mobility industry whilst acknowledging the support and training that have led to the growth of his business. He took home 3  awards on the night.

Yango is proud to have collaborated with big brands like Zenith Bank Ghana Ltd, Paystack, Glico Group, Best Autos Limited, Futura, Grace mobilities and Samsung Ghana to provide incentives and prizes for  the awardees.

Below is a full list of award winners:

Yango Ghana also awarded the top 10 passengers as well as the top 3 female Drivers of the Year. Other Honorary Awards were presented to the following for their immense contribution to the growth and development of ride hailing, technology and urban mobility in Ghana.

1. Hon. Samuel Nartey George – Minister, Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations

2. Irene Messiba, Director – Policy, Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring and Evaluation, Ministry of Transport

3. Hon. John Dumelo – Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, MP Ayawaso West Wuogon

4. Mr. Abraham Zaato – Ag. Director; Research, Business Development & Innovations,  Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority

5. Dr. Nii Longdon Sowah – Senior Lecturer,Department of Computer Engineering, University of Ghana

The Yango Digital Mobility Awards is aimed at promoting innovation, sustainability, and community engagement in the sector, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of online transportation and mobility services in Ghana.

About Yango Group

Yango Group is a tech company that transforms global technologies into everyday services tailored for local communities.

With an unwavering commitment to innovation, the company reshapes and enhances leading cutting-edge technologies from around the world into seamlessly integrated daily services for diverse regions.

Their mission is to bridge the gap between leading world innovations and local communities, fostering connections and enhancing everyday living experiences.      

For more information, please contact: [email protected]

Communication Minister Sam Nartey George says Ghanaians will enjoy cheaper and enhanced data bundles on five national holidays this year following a breakthrough agreement with telcos.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, the Ningo Prampram MP revealed details of the deal reached with telco CEOs and outlined broader plans to make data more affordable.

“I went to the CEOs with 18 holidays in the country, asking that they do what they did on Independence Day,” he said. “They said I was going to collapse and bankrupt the businesses.”

After back-and-forth negotiations, a compromise was reached. “We agreed on five national holidays,” he disclosed.

“Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founders’ Day, and Farmers’ Day. On these five days, there will be specialised data bundles, cheaper rates for every Ghanaian.”

The initiative builds on the Independence Day data relief that offered enhanced packages. “What we did on Independence Day, the enhanced bundles — that’s going to be replicated,” he confirmed.

Sam George stressed that this isn’t the end of the push for lower prices. He set up a committee that has already submitted a roadmap.

“People said I promised prices would drop in 14 days. No. I said I would get a roadmap in 14 days,” he clarified. “And in 13 days, the committee submitted it.”

That roadmap contains short, medium, and long-term solutions.

“In the short term, we are not in a position to drop prices across the whole spectrum,” he admitted. “So we’ve picked specific demographics.”

The Ministry, with help from the regulator, is now building databases to target those groups.

“Once we have the data sets of individuals we are targeting, the announcement will be made,” he said. “I met with the stakeholders today who must provide that data.”

The effort has received full support from telcos. “I met all three CEOs. And all three agreed we needed to do something about data prices.”

Beyond the immediate plans, the minister identified taxation and power costs as structural barriers. “Taxation is a big part of it,” he said. “And the cost build-up in terms of power.”

He announced that the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission will be engaged to create a telecom tariff, similar to what exists for mining firms.

“Mining gets bulk power at a preferential rate. Telecom doesn’t, even though towers across Ghana are consuming power. That must change.”

Through this multi-pronged approach, the minister believes meaningful and sustainable data pricing reform can be achieved.

“This is not just a talk shop,” he said. “We’re putting in the work.”

He also expressed deep appreciation to industry players.

“I must say I’m extremely grateful to the three telcos. They’ve shown commitment.”

The Communication Minister made it clear that while change won’t happen overnight, Ghanaians will soon begin to feel the impact.

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.

Economic Advisory at Deloitte Africa, Yaw Appiah Lartey Esq, has urged the government to reconsider its decision not to renegotiate or extend Ghana’s ongoing programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

This follows a statement by the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, during a joint press conference with the IMF in Accra, where he affirmed that the government has no plans to renegotiate or extend the current programme with the IMF.

Dr Forson emphasized the government’s commitment to fully implementing the programme in order to restore macroeconomic stability and drive sustainable growth.

According to him, seeking to renegotiate the programme would signal a lack of confidence in its objectives.

“Renegotiating presupposes that you don’t believe in the programme and so you want to open up the conversation to look at other parameters of the programme. That isn’t the position of the government. The government is committed to implementation to achieve the objectives of the IMF programme,” he stated.

However, reacting to this on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, Mr. Lartey noted that negotiating with the IMF could have been beneficial—particularly given the global decline in international donor funding.

He cited examples such as the USA and the UK’s recent shifts in fiscal priorities, including increased defense spending at the expense of development aid.

Mr. Lartey argued that with the shrinking pool of global development aid, it would have been prudent for Ghana to renegotiate the terms of the programme, particularly the funds to be disbursed.

He pointed out that a significant portion of the IMF funds had already been disbursed before the current administration came into office, and thus, some form of renegotiation regarding the remaining funds would have been appropriate.

He remarked, “I’m not surprised, given some of the comments from government circles—particularly from the President and the Minister of Finance himself during the presser. There wasn’t a clear indication that the government intended to pursue an extension of the IMF programme. So it’s not surprising to me. What we need to understand is what programmes and objectives the government has outlined to mitigate the potential adverse impacts of bringing the IMF programme to an end.”

He added, “When you look at developments in international funding, donor aid is shrinking. This is due to a few key developments. Firstly, the United States government has chosen to scale back or even cancel development-based programmes, including USAID and several others. Secondly, the UK has increased its defense budget by 40%, which has come at the expense of development aid. Thirdly, the European Union is also ramping up defense spending in response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, again reducing the budget for development aid.”

Mr. Lartey concluded, “So development aid is shrinking. If you have an opportunity to negotiate with a development partner like the IMF—which has consistent revenue and is not influenced by any individual government such as the US or EU—I would have expected the government to pursue a renegotiation of the funds to be disbursed. As noted, a significant portion of the funds was disbursed prior to the current administration. Therefore, if any renegotiation was to occur, it should have focused on the amounts remaining. Unfortunately, that was not the case.”

The IMF has been supporting Ghana’s economic recovery through its Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme. The programme aims to restore macroeconomic stability, build resilience, and lay the foundation for stronger and more inclusive growth.

Reverend Dr Cyril Gershon Fayorse, the General Secretary, Christian Council of Ghana

The Christian Council of Ghana has called on the nation to use the Easter festivities as an opportunity to foster peace, particularly within conflict-prone communities.

It said Easter is a period of reflection and reconciliation, and peace must prevail across the country in honour of the sacrifices of Christ.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Reverend Dr. Cyril Gershon Fayorse, General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, stated that peace is a cardinal pillar of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and should resonate among all citizens.

He said it was time to promote peace among individuals, groups, and communities, and to foster peaceful coexistence within Ghana’s social, political, religious, and ethnic framework.

“Easter is a very serious time for reflection, restoration, reconciliation, and redemption. It is about reflecting on what God has done for humanity. We must reconcile with those who have offended us,” Rev. Fayorse said.

“We pray that the peace that comes with Easter will reach our brothers and sisters in Bawku and other conflict-affected areas.”

Rev. Fayorse urged individuals and groups in conflict to bury the hatchet and embrace love and compassion, as demonstrated by Christ.

“Easter is an important period for both Christians and non-Christians to unite as people of peace, as we reflect on the sufferings of Christ,” he added.

“Easter is the most important celebration in Christianity. Without Easter, there would be no Christianity.”

He emphasized that Easter is a significant holiday in the Christian calendar, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It marks the day Jesus rose from the dead, symbolizing hope, renewal, and eternal life.

For millions of Christians worldwide, Easter is a time of spiritual reflection, renewal, and celebration. It is a season that brings joy, hope, and unity, bringing people together in faith and community.

Some of the leadership from both the GRA and Coca-Cola during the visit

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana have jointly pledged to intensify efforts in combating the smuggling of Coca-Cola products into the country. Both institutions have raised alarm over the detrimental impact of illicit trade on local industry and revenue generation.

This renewed commitment was announced during a high-level courtesy visit today by the Managing Director of Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana, Felix Gomis, to the Commissioner of the Customs Division, Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan, and the Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong.

During the visit, it was revealed that over $700,000 worth of Coca-Cola products—approximately 150,000 crates—are smuggled from Nigeria into Ghana every month. According to officials, this significantly undermines the competitiveness of local production, threatens jobs, and erodes national tax revenue.

Addressing the issue, Brigadier General Annan emphasized the importance of Coca-Cola as a multinational manufacturer and a key development partner in Ghana’s economy. He acknowledged the damaging effects of smuggling on legitimate businesses and assured the beverage company of GRA’s readiness to respond.

“We understand the adverse impacts smuggling has on businesses, undermining fair competition and affecting sales and revenue,” Brigadier General Annan stated. “But I wish to assure you that the Customs Division views this concern with the utmost seriousness.

“We are committed to working with you and other stakeholders to devise effective strategies to tackle smuggling. Through collaboration, intelligence sharing, and coordinated enforcement strategies, we can significantly reduce this menace.”

Gomis expressed appreciation for the GRA’s openness to collaboration, describing the visit as an important step in strengthening partnerships that benefit the national economy.

“It is indeed a pleasure to have been received here by such a distinguished audience. Coca-Cola has been in this country for the past 30 years. We continue to believe in investing heavily in the country to sustain employment,” he noted.

He highlighted recent investments, including the local production of canned beverages that were previously imported. However, he lamented the challenges posed by the smuggling of foreign Coca-Cola products into Ghana and called for immediate action.

“We have no doubt that, with the close collaboration we’ve had with the GRA, this is a great opportunity for us to reinforce our partnership for the mutual benefit of the country,” Gomis said.

Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong also reaffirmed the GRA’s commitment to protecting legitimate businesses, emphasizing that Ghana’s broader economic recovery depends heavily on empowering local industries and generating domestic revenue.

“At the end of the day, it is your business growing and flourishing that will generate the necessary taxes. For every revenue that is lost, we are denying a child somewhere in this country the opportunity to go to school or access good healthcare,” Sarpong remarked.

He praised Coca-Cola for its longstanding contribution to Ghana’s industrial landscape and encouraged continued collaboration.

“See this visit as the beginning of a collaborative effort. We are committed to working with you, as well as the entire private sector, to ensure that the challenges hindering your business operations are minimized so you can operate freely and effectively,” he concluded.

Minister of Finance, Dr Ato Forson

Yaw Appiah Lartey Esq, an economic advisor at Deloitte Africa, has urged the Ghanaian government, and successive administrations to reconsider the country’s expenditure patterns as a strategic move toward long-term financial independence.

This comes as Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, ruled out any renegotiation or extension of the country’s current program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Speaking at a joint press conference with IMF officials in Accra, Dr Forson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fully implementing the program to restore macroeconomic stability and promote sustainable growth.

In response to this, Mr. Lartey, speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, said that while he wasn’t surprised by the government’s stance, a renegotiation with the IMF could have been beneficial—particularly in light of the global decline in development aid.

Nonetheless, he emphasized that the government must urgently reassess its expenditure pattern if it is to achieve financial independence.

According to Mr. Lartey, Ghana’s current expenditure structure is unsustainable, with 30% allocated to compensation, 25% to interest payments, and 20% to subsidies—leaving only about 20–25% for infrastructure and economic growth.

He pointed to countries like Malaysia, China, Russia, and the United Kingdom as examples of nations that have successfully weaned themselves off IMF support. These countries, he said, achieved this by developing home-grown policies, investing in domestic production, and channeling donor funds toward industrialization.

“I tell people, go and look at the list of countries that historically relied on the IMF for budgetary support. Many of those countries—Malaysia, China, Russia, even the United Kingdom—have managed to move away from IMF dependency. With the exception of Argentina, which keeps returning due to persistent mismanagement, others have successfully implemented initiatives to become self-reliant.”

Using Malaysia as an example, he explained how the country prioritized domestic production, particularly in agriculture, such as palm oil, and directed donor support toward industrialization—steps Ghana has yet to take.

Lartey criticized Ghana’s pattern of borrowing to fund recurrent expenditure rather than long-term development.

“Unfortunately, we often use borrowings to support current expenditure. When 30% of your expenditure goes to compensation, 25% to interest payments, and another 20% to subsidies, you’re left with just 20–25% for critical growth areas like infrastructure. An economy run like this cannot hope to exit IMF dependency in the short to medium term. It’s a long-term effort.”

He contrasted Ghana’s economic model with that of the United Kingdom, where the service sector dominates due to higher literacy levels. In Ghana, however, a significant portion of the population lacks formal education, making sectors like agriculture and industry more suitable and impactful for inclusive economic growth.

“We must radically restructure our expenditure to significantly support two sectors that are shrinking year after year: agriculture and industry. If we allow services to dominate growth without strengthening these foundational sectors, we will face serious challenges. Agriculture and industry require skills more suited to our population, and their growth is essential if we are to break the IMF dependency cycle.”

Lartey concluded by stressing the need for comprehensive, home-grown policies that promote domestic production, strategic investment in key sectors, and effective use of donor funds to drive sustainable development.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has filed a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s spate of tariffs that have upended global trade.

The suit, which marks the first time a state has sued over the levies, challenges an emergency power Trump cited, giving him authority to enact them.

California is the world’s fifth-largest economy, outpacing every US state and most countries, and is home to the largest shares of manufacturing and agricultural production in the US.

The White House, which has argued the tariffs are tackling imbalances in international trade, dismissed the lawsuit and said it would continue addressing “this national emergency that’s decimating America’s industries”.

“Instead of focusing on California’s rampant crime, homelessness, and unaffordability, Gavin Newsom is spending his time trying to block President Trump’s historic efforts to finally address the national emergency of our country’s persistent goods trade deficits,” White House spokesman Kush Desai said.

Newsom and the state’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, announced the lawsuit at a news conference at an almond farm, one of the biggest crops California produces.

Nearly 82% of the world’s almonds come from the Golden State. It’s also the nation’s sole producer of artichokes, figs, olives, walnuts and raisins.

Newsom argued California has been “disproportionately affected” by the tariffs and that’s why the state, which has already filed 15 lawsuits against Trump since January, would lead the charge against the levies, which currently are 10% on most countries and 145% on China.

“That’s our state of mind,” the governor said. “That’s why we’re asserting ourselves on behalf of 40 million Americans.”

The lawsuit challenges Trump’s invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to enact the tariffs, arguing the act had never been used for such levies and such powers rest with the US Congress.

The lawsuit cites multiple times from rulings by the US Supreme Court against the Biden administration in its quest to forgive student debt, noting the high court called Biden’s manoeuvres a “transformative expansion” of presidential authority.

Newsom said if the Supreme Court is “consistent, then this lawsuit is a lock” for the state.

The act has never been used to issue tariffs by any president, congressional research shows.

While California is the first state to file legal action against the Trump administration over the levies, several other lawsuits filed by small businesses and a civil rights group have similarly challenged Trump’s authority on the matter.

Since Trump’s inauguration in January, there has been a flurry of announcements on tariffs.

The US president says the import taxes will encourage US consumers to buy more American-made goods, increase the amount of tax raised, and lead to huge levels of investment in the country.

Critics argue that bringing manufacturing back to the US is complicated and could take decades and that the economy will struggle in the meantime.

Trump has also backtracked on many of his announcements.

Just hours after steep levies against roughly 60 of America’s trading partners kicked in earlier this month, Trump announced a 90-day pause on those tariffs to all countries except China, in the face of mounting opposition from politicians and the markets.

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.

Businessman, Seidu Agongo

Businessman Seidu Agongo has accused the Akufo-Addo administration of persecuting him for eight years, citing what he describes as “backward” and discriminatory thinking rooted in prejudice and political motives.

Speaking on the Master of the Game show, hosted by Kwasi Kyei Darkwah on CTV, Mr. Agongo recounted how he was dragged through a prolonged court battle after supplying liquid fertiliser that had been used successfully under the very government that later prosecuted him.

“I was in court for eight years because I supplied liquid fertiliser which was used three consecutive times,” Mr. Agongo said. “During the period of its use, there was no problem. Nearly two million litres were distributed to Ghanaian farmers under that same administration without issue.”

Mr. Agongo claimed the trouble only began after the New Patriotic Party (NPP) took office, implying that the sudden interest in prosecuting him was politically motivated.

“It was only after the change in government that you realised I had a bank—that’s when you suddenly had a problem,” he said. “Because you wanted to collapse the bank.”

The businessman suggested that the motives behind his “persecution” were not just political but also deeply rooted in a form of regressive thinking that judges individuals based on their names, origins, and family backgrounds rather than on merit and character.

“When you have leadership that judges you based on your grandfathers, where you come from, or because of your name—that is backward thinking,” Mr. Agongo argued. “It doesn’t resonate well with modern society.”

He emphasised the importance of open-minded and progressive leadership that focuses on ability and integrity, rather than entrenched social or ethnic biases. “As human beings, we evolve every day. No one should be judged by their past or where they come from.”

The Akufo-Addo government has previously denied claims of political persecution, insisting that all prosecutions are based on due process and evidence.

Ghana’s government has taken operational control of Gold Fields’ Damang mine following the rejection of the South African miner’s application to renew its lease, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources announced on Wednesday.

Gold Fields, based in Johannesburg, confirmed on Monday that its lease for the Damang mine—set to expire on April 18—was not renewed, prompting the company to begin winding down operations. Mining activities at Damang had already ceased in 2023, with the company processing only stockpiled ore. It had pledged to exit the site in an orderly manner as part of its end-of-life plan.

“The Damang Mine’s return to state oversight marks a critical step in Ghana’s economic reset, ensuring its gold reserves directly benefit citizens,” the ministry stated.

The move reflects a broader policy shift aimed at ending what the ministry described as the “neo-colonial” practice of automatic license renewals in Ghana’s gold mining sector. Officials said they are reassessing licenses to maximize national benefit and are open to new proposals that align with Ghana’s development goals.

Damang is the smaller of Gold Fields’ two Ghanaian mines, producing 135,000 ounces of gold in 2024—approximately 6% of the company’s total output of 2.15 million ounces. The larger Tarkwa mine remains the biggest open-pit gold operation in the country.

Gold Fields has been evaluating the sale of its smaller assets, including Damang and the Cerro Corona mine in Peru, which has fewer than five years of operational life remaining. The company is shifting focus toward its newer projects, including the recently commissioned Salares Norte mine in Chile and the Windfall project in Canada.

Meanwhile, regional instability continues to escalate across Africa. In Sudan, up to 400,000 people have been displaced after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized control of the Zamzam camp in North Darfur, according to recent reports.

Alongside trade volumes, economic output is expected to suffer. In its report published Wednesday in Geneva, the WTO forecasts gross domestic product (GDP) growth in North America — which it defines as the US and Canada — of just 0.4% this year, down from an earlier estimate of 2%.

North American exports are projected to fall by 12.6% in 2025, while imports are set to drop by 9.6%, according to the WTO.

Prior to US President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements, the organization had expected exports to rise by 2.2% and imports by 2.8%. Chinese exports to the US are now forecast to fall by 77% under the current scenario.

The impact on Europe is far less severe. The WTO expects exports to rise by 1% this year (down from 1.4%) and imports to increase by 1.9% (previously 2.1%). European GDP growth is now forecast at 1.2%, compared to a previous estimate of 1.4%.

The WTO analysis reflects conditions as of April 14. Since returning to the White House, Trump has announced a wide array of tariffs targeting various countries and sectors, although some have since been suspended. China has been the primary focus.

If the current scenario holds, the WTO expects the global volume of traded goods to shrink by 0.2%, a reversal from the 2.7% growth previously expected. If suspended country-specific tariffs are enacted after a 90-day pause announced April 9—and retaliatory measures follow—global trade volumes could fall by as much as 1.5%.

Global GDP is now projected to grow by 2.2% in 2025, down from the WTO’s earlier forecast of 2.8%.

GNA

PDC

Ghana is positioning itself as a regional petroleum hub with an ambitious downstream agenda, revealed at the Invest in African Energies: Accra Investor Briefing on April 14th.

This briefing served as a prelude to the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies conference in Cape Town, outlining Ghana’s strategy to enhance regional fuel security and reduce petroleum costs.  

The centerpiece of Ghana’s plan is the development of West Africa’s first integrated petroleum hub, a project spanning three phases from 2024 to 2036. The first phase, already underway, includes the construction of a 300,000-barrel-per-day (bpd) refinery, a 90,000-bpd petrochemical plant, storage tanks, and marine port infrastructure.  

Dr. Toni Aubynn, CEO of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, emphasized the scale of the project and the need for investment. “Our responsibility is to ensure that we bring the ideas of the state into reality: that is to build three refineries and five petrochemical plants,” Dr. Aubynn stated, highlighting Ghana’s pioneering role in establishing such a facility. He further added, “We are going to rely on investors to develop these important industries. Our target is local investors”.  

Ghana’s existing Tema Oil Refinery plays a crucial role in reducing the nation’s reliance on imported refined petroleum products. Dr. Yussif Sulemana, Managing Director of Tema Oil Refinery, discussed ongoing modernization efforts to improve the refinery’s units and increase productivity. “Short-term, our strategy is to maximize existing assets. Medium- to long-term, we are looking at a partnership and strategic investment. We have a lot of investors interested and are looking for capital injection and expertise,” Dr. Sulemana explained.  

In addition to refining capacity, Ghana is also focused on expanding its storage infrastructure and inter-depot pipeline networks. Nana Amoasi VII, Technical Advisor of Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation (BOST), outlined plans to strengthen the country’s strategic fuel reserves. “Going forward, we plan to double our fleet of barges and introduce a pipeline from Tema to the Accra Plains Depot. We want to develop another storage facility and ensure that we use alternative fuels,” Nana Amoasi VII stated.  

Recognizing the importance of local participation, Ghana is prioritizing local content and human capital development alongside downstream investments. Kwaku Boateng, Director of Economics and Local Content at Ghana’s Petroleum Commission, stressed the need to maximize the benefits of the oil and gas industry for the local population. “We need to maximize the oil and gas industry, and to achieve the stability of the hydrocarbon industry, we need local content. At the Petroleum Commission, we have a strategy to ensure that across every petroleum activity, there is a Ghanaian  possibility. Ghanaian companies are strong partners to the international oil companies,” Kwaku Boateng said.  

However, challenges remain in strengthening Ghana’s workforce capacity. David Pappoe, President of the African Energy Chamber in Ghana, emphasized the shared responsibility of the government and private companies in addressing this issue. “Ghanaian companies have to build capacity… Without human capacity, technology and knowledge, you cannot compete. We want to drive collaboration across the African continent. Through collaboration, we will be on our way to ending energy poverty,” Pappoe noted.  

The Invest in African Energies: Accra Investor Briefing successfully highlighted the commercial opportunities within Ghana’s oil and gas sector, setting the stage for further discussions and potential deals at the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies conference in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3.  

Inter Milan booked their place in the Champions League semi-finals with a thrilling draw against Bayern Munich at San Siro Stadium.

The Italian champions led 2-1 from the first leg but their advantage was wiped out by Harry Kane’s crisp, low strike early in the second half.

That goal sparked Inter into life and just nine minutes later they were in front on the night and in complete control of the tie.

First, Lautaro Martinez lashed home from six yards as the ball dropped kindly for him from a corner.

Three minutes later, another corner and this time defender Benjamin Pavard powered in a header from Hakan Calhanoglu’s delivery.

Bayern did not give up though, and with 14 minutes remaining they drew level thanks to Eric Dier’s looping back-post header from a tight angle.

Vincent Kompany’s side pushed for a third goal to force extra time, and in the fifth of six added minutes the chance came but Thomas Muller could not direct his header past Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

Tensions were running high with time ticking away and Bayern substitute Josip Stanisic shoved a ballboy off his stool after he threw the ball away to waste some time.

Stanisic spoke of his regret post-match: “Every team in the world wastes time when they’re leading. It was a bit stupid of me to push him there.”

Despite the late scare, it is Inter who progress to face Barcelona in a tantalising last-four tie.

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.

A legal dispute has emerged within the Christian Divine Church (CDC) as an injunction has been filed at the Sekondi High Court to halt a planned Easter Convention and induction ceremony, which certain church members deem illegal.

The event, scheduled to take place from Thursday, April 17, to Sunday, April 20, 2025, aims to induct Pastor Alex Aidoo as Chairman-elect and Pastor Francis Baidoo as Deputy Chairman-elect of the church.

However, the plaintiffs argue that the induction violates established church protocols and threatens the unity and governance of the institution.

The injunction specifically targets James Amoah, a retired Administrative Officer of the church, along with several other individuals alleged to be involved in organizing the event.

Among them are Pastor Japhet Ehwi, Area Head of New Takoradi; Pastor Joe Ato Adzie, Area Head of Tema; Pastor Alex Aidoo; and Pastor Francis Baidoo, the prospective inductees.

Court filings describe the planned program as a “grandly orchestrated illegality” lacking both legal and ecclesiastical justification.

The plaintiffs warn that if the event proceeds, it could further destabilize the church and undermine its internal governance structures.

The lawsuit seeks an immediate injunction barring the named individuals, their associates, and any representatives from organizing, supporting, or attending activities related to the convention and induction.

It further emphasizes the need to prevent actions that could harm the church’s reputation and compromise the integrity of judicial proceedings.

GA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

The electrification project is one of the ways to support the market’s recovery

The Or Foundation, an Accra-based charity, has announced a major initiative to install electricity in every stall of Kantamanto Market, following the devastating fire that affected the market earlier this year.

Branson Skinner, a co-founder of the organization, made this known at a town meeting with traders, upcyclers, and other stakeholders at the forecourt of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).

He said the Foundation would fully fund the market-wide electrical installation as part of its ongoing fire relief efforts.

“We are committed to ensuring that the rebuilding of Kantamanto Market is not only about physical restoration but also about creating a safer, more sustainable environment for the traders,” he stated.

Skinner added, “This electrification project is just one of the ways we are supporting the market’s recovery.”

He explained that in addition to the electrical installation, The Or Foundation was collaborating with key partners—including the AMA, the Ghana Police Service, Kantamanto Market leadership, and SheGaurds, a private security firm—to establish a professional security and first-response team to improve safety in the market.

Skinner noted that since most market members are women, the security personnel would be trained in gender-based violence prevention, first aid, and fire-fighting techniques.

He said the Foundation is in the process of installing 1,000 fire extinguishers across the marketplace to enhance safety.

Liz Ricketts, another co-founder of the Foundation, said, “Kantamanto Market today represents a model of the circular economy, and a place where upcycling and reusing are at the heart of what people do. The Foundation is proud to support such a vibrant community.”

She reflected on the Foundation’s evolution, noting that its initial focus on education shifted towards improving market conditions due to the declining quality of secondhand clothing and rising operational costs.

“We want to make sure, first and foremost, that the electricity in the market is safe and legally installed,” Ricketts emphasized, stressing that equal access to electricity is essential for vendors who require power for business operations like fans and phone charging.

Samuel Owusu-Sekyere, Director of Operations of The Or Foundation, said the organization has already distributed over 22.5 million Ghana cedis to more than 9,000 market members.

“In addition, we have invested three million Ghana cedis in purchasing lumber for the reconstruction of the market, to help businesses bounce back,” he stated.

He said the Foundation is working with the leadership of the market, the AMA, the Electricity Company of Ghana, the Ghana Fire Service, and other government institutions to ensure that Kantamanto becomes a place where people can trade safely and contribute to the country’s economy.

Owusu-Sekyere pointed out that the Foundation’s partnership with the Kantamanto Market leadership is not to purchase the land, as some people perceive, but to improve the market’s conditions.

“Kantamanto is government land, and no NGO can buy it. Our focus is on improving the working environment and collaborating with stakeholders,” he emphasized.

Samuel Mantey, Director of Works at the AMA, lauded the ongoing efforts of the Foundation to rebuild the market and enhance its safety. He called for unity among market members to work together to address the challenges facing the community.

So can Arsenal beat PSG and make their second Champions League final?

The Gunners have the second-best defensive record in the competition, conceding just seven goals in 12 matches, while going forward only five teams have scored more.

Standing in their way though are a youthful, vibrant PSG side, who many are tipping to win their first European crown.

Julien Laurens, told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Over 90 minutes, 120 minutes, I really believe PSG can beat anyone because they have that style of football, the intensity, the energy, the youth, they’ve got so much talent.

“The two full-backs in Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, I think you can look at the Arsenal full-backs, Inter Milan full-backs, Barcelona, I just think they don’t have better full-backs in Europe right now.

“And when you’ve got the midfield three that PSG have plus Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue and [Bradley] Barcola and when [goalkeeper Gianluigi] Donnarumma is on his game, then you have a huge chance of course.”

Arsenal though will take confidence from PSG’s second-half second-leg collapse at Aston Villa on Tuesday night, where Luis Enrique’s young side appeared to crumble against heavy pressure.

The Gunners also comfortably beat PSG 2-0 in October, although Laurens says the French champions are now a different side.

He said: “I think Arsenal are so good without the ball, they are so good defensively.

“I know they’ve conceded goals lately but they’re still so strong and this is kind of more maybe than a team that attack you and play the similar style that PSG play, this is where they could be undone.”

When at last The Never Ending Story reached its final page, there was Bukayo Saka standing at the north end of the Santiago Bernabéu shrugging a familiar shrug that says: how about that, then? And that was pretty special, Arsenal’s own story written as Mikel Arteta had asked and given a scene they will remember for a long time, a coming of age.

The goal that finally confirmed that they were heading into their third European Cup semi-final was a portrait of the way Arsenal had played here: an exercise in patience, control, and maturity.

Precision, timing and courage, too. Saka had missed a first-half penalty that might have set up their passage sooner, that could have felt like a catastrophe then amidst the noise of the lion’s den into which they had stepped, but he was not sunk, nor scared. None of them were: not by the legend, the atmosphere, the history, not by the players before them. There was none of the fatalism or the fear that left so many others crumbled and fallen here, none of Madrid’s mystique. Instead, the Bernabéu spell was broken, Real Madrid eliminated and deservedly so.

At no point was Arsenal’s 3-0 first‑leg lead in real danger, not even when they gifted Madrid an absurd equaliser immediately after Saka’s goal. The kind of moment that usually sparks madness, a sense of impending doom, did not; the men in black ensured as much.

And then, as if to underline their superiority – and make no mistake, over these two legs they have been far, far superior to Madrid – Gabriel Martinelli escaped through the middle of what little was left of the home defence in the last minute and slotted past Thibaut Courtois.

Arsenal had not just beaten the European champions across two games, winning 5-1 on aggregate, they had beaten them in two games. High in the stands above, fans sang long into perhaps the greatest night in their European history, completed on its grandest stage and in grand style.

They blew Madrid away a week ago; now they managed them, Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and Thomas Partey dominating midfield, taking control before clinically finishing the task. For all the comeback narrative that had been built against them, there was no sign of nerves and only one bit of bad news – a late yellow card that means Partey will miss the first leg against PSG.

Arsenal had started well and might have started perfectly. Saka flashed a shot past the post and saw another pushed away by Courtois before he passed up a glorious opportunity to make this an even more comfortable night. Twelve minutes had gone when François Letexier was called to the VAR screen where, in slow motion, he saw Raúl Asencio pull down Mikel Merino. Saka clipped the penalty too low and too soft, allowing Courtois to reach up a right hand to palm it away, this place erupting.

If that seemed like the spark Madrid needed, the fatalism flooding through Arsenal, it was quickly followed by another. Or so, at least, it seemed when Letexier gave a penalty for a tug on Kylian Mbappé. Rice, though, protested his innocence and although it took a good five minutes to go and look, the referee eventually agreed.

Relief reinforced the plan. Arteta’s team managed the tempo, slowing down when it suited and occasionally stepping out. He had talked about the value of frustrating Madrid, turning that expectation against them, and that was a fairly accurate description of what was happening. David Raya was booked for time-wasting but not called on to make a save in the first half. Courtois had made three, the last a sharp stop from Rice.

Madrid lacked structure and ideas, a Lucas Vázquez cross that curled all the way through proving to be about the best they could offer and an indication of their limitations. Nor did they really have the energy to create the chaos they sought. There was a tiredness about them, little spark.

Rice had to stop Jude Bellingham, as he had done so throughout this tie, and Mbappé headed over but Arsenal were so in control there were soon oles accompanying their moves. That might not have been a great idea, given that Madrid soon robbed and ran away but the break ended tamely enough with their first shot on target.

Raya comfortably gathered Vinícius Júnior’s shot then and soon after Arsenal took the lead. The goalkeeper’s long ball was nodded on by Rice. Saka came inside, went to Ødegaard, who slowed, waited and chose judiciously as ever. Merino was the next man introduced to the move, slipping a clever ball through the gap. And there was Saka, dinking it coolly, gently over Courtois.

This was not the way visitors are supposed to behave here; what came next was a goal gifted out of nowhere when William Saliba, looking away, lost possession. Vinícius smashed the ball into an empty net, suddenly there was a roar, a flicker of hope, a reaction to something so ridiculous that for a moment Madrid thought that maybe, maybe, it could be the start of something even more ridiculous.

Arsenal, though, were not going to let that happen: not now, not ever, Martinelli adding the final line of the story they will tell for a long time.

Former Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has called on the government to take decisive action in addressing the growing menace of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking on The Point of View on Channel One TV on Wednesday, April 16, Jinapor identified three key areas the government must urgently focus on to effectively combat the issue.

He raised alarms over alleged political involvement in illegal mining activities, describing it as a disturbing development.

“There is obviously a clear case or situation of political actors and in some cases, political class at the high level allegedly involved in this issue of illegal small-scale mining… It is our turn to take our share of the illegal mining galamsey turf,” he remarked.

Jinapor also decried the prevailing culture of impunity around illegal mining and urged the government to confront it head-on.

“I think there is also an issue of impunity that has creeped in… So government must begin to look at that critically and look at how to exorcise the culture of impunity when it comes to the fight against illegal mining,” he said.

The Damongo MP further stressed the need for the government to honour its manifesto promise made while in opposition — a pledge to declare a state of emergency in mining districts within 120 days of taking office.

“The opposition at the time supported Civil Societies call and went a step further to commit and promise that when voted into office… they will declare a state of emergencies in mining districts of our country,” he noted.

Jinapor urged the government to clarify its current stance on this commitment.

“We should hear from them. They should come out and say we will impose a state of emergency at such and such time or we will not impose a state of emergency because of A, B, C reasons. But not to say anything and to leave it hanging I think is not a proper way of proceeding,” he said.

Abu Jinapor: NPP’s 2024 election loss was unexpected and difficult

A level 100 student at the University of Education, Winneba has allegedly committed suicide after found out his partner had cheated on him.

The student reportedly committed suicide by hanging on Wednesday, April 16, following a heartbreaking incident involving his girlfriend.

According to eyewitness report, the young man allegedly collapsed after unexpectedly discovering his girlfriend in an intimate situation with another individual at Ghana Universities Staff Superannuation Scheme (GUSSS) Hall Two.

The emotional distress caused by the incident is believed to have contributed to his decision to take his own life.

At present, his body is in the custody of the Winneba police for further investigation.

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.

Samuel Abu Jinapor, Member of Parliament for Damongo and former Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has refuted claims that he accused the Mahama administration of appointing over 100 presidential staffers.

His clarification comes in the wake of a response from the government, through Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who denied allegations that President John Mahama had appointed over 100 presidential staffers.

Kwakye Ofosu stated that the administration had only 27 presidential staffers, with three additional individuals serving as directors for specific interventions, bringing the total to 30.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Wednesday, April 16, Jinapor said his remarks had been misinterpreted.

He clarified that his comments referred to the combined number of ministers and presidential staffers, which together approached 100 appointees.

“No, I did not, I said if you add the number of staffers—senior presidential advisors and the rest—to the ministers, you will be inching to 100. Yes, that is the point I was making,” he stated.

Jinapor also raised concerns about the financial implications of such appointments, arguing that some presidential staffers enjoy salaries and benefits comparable to those of ministers.

Despite the clarification, the Damongo MP commended President John Mahama’s decision to appoint 56 ministers.

“President Mahama’s appointments of 56 ministers is welcomed, commendable, there’s absolutely no two ways about that. Provided always that the 56 ministers are able to deliver,” he stated.

Ahiagbah: We won’t make post election report public

…..

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

US economic growth will be hit and prices will rise for consumers as a result of new tariffs on goods entering the country, the head of America’s central bank has warned.

Jerome Powell, chair of the Federal Reserve, said the import taxes recently announced by President Donald Trump were larger than the bank had expected, going beyond the higher end of its estimates.

His comments followed a period of turmoil on global stock markets as investors reacted to trade tariffs coming into force and the escalating trade war between the US and China.

Powell said surveys of households and businesses reported a “sharp decline” in their sentiment over the economic outlook, largely due to tariff concerns.

Since returning to office, Trump has stoked a trade war by introducing a 10% tax on goods being imported to the US from the vast majority of countries.

He has escalated tariffs further with China by putting a 145% tax on Chinese goods, though there are some exemptions for smartphones. China has hit back with tariffs of 125% on US products. The White House said on Wednesday that when the new tariffs are added on to existing ones the levies on some Chinese goods could reach 245%.

“The level of the tariff increases announced so far is significantly larger than anticipated,” Powell said in his starkest warning on the effects of the new tariffs regime.

“The same is likely to be true of the economic effects, which will include higher inflation and slower growth.”

The US president has said tariffs will boost US manufacturing and jobs, but stock markets have been spooked.

Powell said on Wednesday that impact of the Trump administration’s changes to trade as well as immigration, fiscal policy and regulation on the US economy remained “highly uncertain”.

All three main US stock markets suffered sharp falls on Wednesday. The Dow Jones fell 1.73%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq ended the day down 2.24% and 3.07%, respectively.

But perhaps more concerning to the Trump administration than stocks and shares plunging in value was the rise in the number of investors dumping US government debt last week.

The rise in the effective interest rate the US government had to pay on its bonds is reported to have contributed to the president’s decision to pause some higher tariffs.

Governments sell bonds – essentially IOUs – to borrow money from financial markets, and in retur,n they pay interest.

The US does not normally see high interest rates on its debt, as its bonds are viewed as a safe investment, but rates spiked sharply last week in a sign investors were losing confidence in the world’s biggest economy. They have settled this week, but remain elevated.

Powell said on Wednesday that despite the uncertainty and ructions in the markets, the “US economy is still in a solid position”.

For now, he said, the Fed could keep its benchmark interest rate steady “to wait for greater clarity before considering any adjustments”.

The Fed’s benchmark interest rate is currently set in a range between 4.25% and 4.5%, where it has been since December following a series of rate cuts late last year.

The central bank has been attacked by Trump for holding rates unchanged. The president’s campaign promises included calls for lower interest rates in order to bring relief to borrowers.

If tariffs push up inflation, as many economists expect, the Fed could decide to hold or even raise rates. Traders on Wednesday kept their bets it will continue to cut rates this year.

But the Fed also has a mandate to maintain maximum employment as well as stable prices.

Should it be caught between rising inflation and a rising unemployment rate, Powell said, “we would consider how far the economy is from each goal” and then look at “the potentially different time horizons” for getting prices under control and bringing the unemployment rate down.

“As that great Chicagoan Ferris Bueller once noted, “life moves pretty fast”, he added.

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.

The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has ordered a review of the basic school curriculum to address the ongoing controversy surrounding Ghana’s founding history.

Haruna Iddrisu expressed disappointment over the debate the confusion has caused within the educational sector.

The Minister made these remarks in Accra on April 16 while inaugurating a committee tasked with reviewing the curriculum for Primary Four to Six.

The long-standing controversy over who should be credited as the founder or founders of Ghana continues to spark debate.

While some Ghanaians maintain that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is the sole founder of the nation, others argue that Dr. J.B. Danquah and several others played pivotal roles and should also be recognized.

During the previous NPP administration under President Akufo-Addo, August 4 was declared Founders’ Day to honour the collective contributions of Ghana’s forebears.

However, the decision has remained divisive, drawing mixed reactions from Members of Parliament and academia.

In a move to settle the debate and promote historical clarity, Mr Haruna Iddrisu announced the formation of a committee to review the basic education curriculum.

” I am at a loss that at 68 years we are still grappling with who are the founders of Ghana and who is the founding father of Ghana. This must be a settled matter. In every country, there are its founding fathers. It is reasonable to conclude that Dr Kwame Nkrumah is the founding leader of Ghana but if at this stage, you still want children to be asking fathers and mothers question, who the founding father of Ghana is, who are the founders of Ghana, then there is a problem, At 68 years, you shouldn’t be asking who birth you,” he said.

The Education Minister also revealed that the government, under President John Dramani Mahama, will soon introduce a new policy framework dubbed “Beyond Education”, aimed at further reforming the sector.

“Into next year, President John Dramani Mahama should be launching a new flagship in education that will be themed or dubbed ‘Beyond academic skills beyond classroom learning what other competencies or talents can learners acquire’  We expect that in the review of the curriculum, some dedicated time, at least an hour or two be allotted for learners to be with themselves in groups to undertake some national exercises.

“I mean if at school, boys and girls should be doing painting give them one hour to do painting. If they have to be in a group to learn how to farm give them one hour to learn how to farm,” he said.

President John Dramani Mahama says Ghana is ready to lead the digital age.

In a keynote address given at the One Million Ghana Coders Programme (OMCP) Ghana–India on April 16th, the President said, “We are not merely launching a program – we are laying the foundation to a new economy… We are saying to our youth, to our communities, to the continent and to the world: the future is here and we will be part of shaping it.”

As part of his campaign messages for the 2024 general elections, Mr. Mahama promised to train one million Ghanaians in coding. This initiative is part of his efforts to promote digital literacy and skills development in the country.

At the launch of the OMCP, President Mahama emphasized that the program goes beyond a fulfilled campaign promise. “It is a strategic pillar of our Reset Ghana Agenda, designed to empower Ghanaians with digital skills critical for 21st-century life and work,” he said.

He spoke of countries like Estonia, the United Kingdom, Finland, Japan, and the United States, which have transformed their economies by introducing coding into their educational curriculum.

He said if Ghana adopts the blueprints of these countries and applies them to the Ghanaian context, the country stands a chance of becoming Africa’s premier hub for the global Business Process Outsourcing (BPO).

“As of this year, the global Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) market is valued at $410 billion, projected to grow to nearly $490 billion by 2029. Countries like India and the Philippines dominate this space, offering services in software development, data management, customer support, and more,” he said.

Apart from job creation and economic growth, the president said the program will bring about entrepreneurship and innovation. It will also encourage education and lifelong learning. Last but not least, he mentioned inclusion. “Digital transformation must not leave anyone behind,” he stressed.

The President reiterated that one must not underestimate what the OMCP means for Ghana. He said “by embarking on this program, we are changing the national narrative. One from limitations to limitless potentials. Instead of waiting for jobs, Ghanaian youth will create jobs.”

“This is that purpose. This is Ghana’s moment — to rise, to lead, to shape the future. And so, with pride, and with faith in the extraordinary potential of the Ghanaian people, I officially launch the One Million Coders Programme.”

By Benedicta Afi Agbodzi