Some cement dealers across the country are raising concerns over a growing shortage of major cement brands, attributing the disruption to a critical scarcity of clinker — a key raw material in cement production.

In the past two to four weeks, brands such as SOL Cement, Empire Cement, and Dzata Cement have become increasingly difficult to find. This comes on the heels of a GH¢9 price hike on all cement products, largely driven by rising port charges.

Retailers say their inability to restock has had immediate consequences, including turning away customers and losing revenue, as suppliers continue to struggle with clinker procurement.

Augustine Aduful, a cement retailer with over a decade of experience, voiced his frustration in an interview with Citi Business News.

“As for the shortage, it happens every time. You pay, but then you’re told to wait for delivery. As I speak, they are short of clinker. Two weeks ago, I paid for SOL Cement, and when I called yesterday, I was told I won’t get my stock for another two weeks,” Aduful said.

Another dealer, Isaac Frimpong, reported that he has been out of stock of the 32.5R grade of Ghacem cement for several weeks.

“Ghacem, in particular, has been facing a shortage, affecting many businesses. Our customers are now being forced to switch to alternatives like Diamond Cement,” Frimpong explained, calling for government intervention.

“The clinker shortage is being caused by overseas supply issues. Even the recent price hikes are tied to external factors. We hope that with government intervention, the situation will stabilize,” he added.

In response to the crisis, Emmanuel Cherry, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, is pushing for a broader stakeholder dialogue to explore local alternatives to clinker.

“As stakeholders, including the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ghana Standards Authority, come together, we need to explore ways to add value to the raw materials we already have. We cannot continue to rely solely on clinker in cement production.

“Our manufacturing sector must start looking within, utilizing available technology and research. We should collaborate with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s Building and Road Research Institute (CSIR-BRRI) to leverage their findings and develop viable alternatives,” Cherry noted.

The shortage has sparked renewed debate over Ghana’s heavy dependence on imported clinker and the long-term sustainability of its cement supply chain.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced that the US is immediately revoking visas issued to all South Sudanese passport holders due to the African nation refusing to accept its citizens who have been removed from the U.S.

Rubio, in a statement on Saturday, added that the US will also block any arriving citizens of South Sudan, the world’s newest country, at US ports of entry.

He blamed “the failure of South Sudan’s transitional government to accept the return of its repatriated citizens in a timely manner”.

A cornerstone of President Donald Trump’s immigration policy is removing unlawful migrants from the US, with the promise of “mass deportations”.

“It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States,” said Rubio.

“Every country must accept the return of its citizens in a timely manner when another country, including the United States, seeks to remove them,” he added.

It comes as fears grow that South Sudan may again descend into civil war.

On 8 March, the US ordered all its non-emergency staff in South Sudan to leave as regional fighting broke out, threatening a fragile peace deal agreed in 2018.

South Sudanese in the US were previously granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which allows them to remain in the US for a set period of time.

TPS for South Sudanese in the US had been due to expire by 3 May.

South Sudan, the world’s newest nation, gained independence in 2011 after seceding from Sudan.

But just two years later, following a rift between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar, the tensions erupted into a civil war, in which more than 400,000 people were killed.

A 2018 power-sharing agreement between the two stopped the fighting, but key elements of the deal have not been implemented – including a new constitution, an election and the reunification of armed groups into a single army.

Sporadic violence between ethnic and local groups has continued in parts of the country.

Since returning to office, the Trump administration has clashed with international governments over deportations of their nationals from the US.

In January, Colombian President Gustavo Petro barred two US military flights carrying deported migrants from landing in his South American country.

Petro relented after Trump promised to place crippling tariffs and sanctions on Colombia.

One of the most famous South Sudanese citizens currently in the US is Duke University star basketball player 18-year-old Khaman Maluach.

A spokesman for the university said on Sunday the school is “aware of the announcement… regarding visa holders from South Sudan”.

“We are looking into the situation and working expeditiously to understand any implications for Duke students.”

Maluach, who played for the South Sudanese Olympic basketball team last summer, spent much of his life in Uganda after fleeing his violence in his homeland as a child.

The first-year student – whose Duke team was eliminated from the national championship tournament Saturday night after losing in the semi-finals to the University of Houston – is widely expected to join the ranks of the NBA after graduation.

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The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is set to auction $120 million to Bulk Oil Distribution Companies (BDCs) in the second quarter of 2025.

This forms part of its broader strategy to ease foreign exchange (FX) demand pressures and support the stability of the Ghana Cedi.

The auction calendar, scheduled across six dates from April to June, are exclusively for Bulk Oil Distribution Companies to secure dollars for petroleum imports, a key driver of forex demand in the country.

Each auction will offer $20 million, bringing the total allocation for the second quarter to $120 million.

The auctions form part of targeted interventions by the Central Bank to manage volatility in the foreign exchange market, especially in the downstream petroleum sector where dollar demand is typically high.

According to the published calendar, the first auction is set for April 10, with subsequent auctions on April 29, May 14 , May 28, June 12 and June 26.

“The Bank of Ghana announces for the information of all Authorised Foreign Exchange Dealing Banks, the Bulk Oil Distribution Companies (BDCs) FX forward Auction Calendar for the second quarter of 2025. In accordance with the BDCs Forex Forward Auction guidelines, bids are invited as per the prescribed format to purchase United States Dollars against Ghana cedis, separately on each auction date and should be submitted via the dedicated email bogforwards@bog.gov.gh,” part of a statement issued the Central Bank read.

Bids are to be submitted by authorised foreign exchange dealing banks on behalf of BDCs during designated hours on each auction day. The results of each auction will be announced later in the afternoon.

The Central Bank has urged all authorised dealers to adhere strictly to the auction guidelines available on its website.

President John Mahama has appointed Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, a distinguished aviation expert, as the acting Director General of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Rev. Arthur brings more than 30 years of experience in air transport, economic regulation, business development and strategic planning to his new role, along with a clear vision for the future of Ghana’s aviation sector.

As acting Director-General, Rev. Arthur is committed to advancing the government’s agenda for sustained growth in the aviation industry, while prioritising safety, security and operational excellence.

He aims to strengthen Ghana’s position as a global aviation leader by fostering innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and ensuring compliance with international standards.

His leadership will focus on creating a safe, secure and competitive aviation environment aligned with Ghana’s long-term economic development goals.

Rev. Arthur has served with the GCAA for nearly three decades, rising steadily through the ranks in various leadership positions.

Most recently, he was Director of Economic Regulation and Business Development from January 2019 to March 2025.

During that time, he led key initiatives in policy formulation, regulatory compliance, budget management and stakeholder engagement efforts aimed at fostering a sustainable and competitive air transport sector in Ghana.

Earlier in his career, Rev. Arthur served as manager of Business Development and Statistics, where he conducted economic audits of airlines, evaluated business plans for air carriers, and contributed to air transport regulatory frameworks.

He also worked in the Corporate Planning and Finance departments, where he played a vital role in financial reporting, investment analysis and budgeting processes.

A frequent participant in global aviation policy discussions, Rev. Arthur has represented Ghana at numerous International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) conferences and Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) negotiations.

He serves on several high-level committees, including ICAO Facilitation and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) Working Group on the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

He currently chairs the Steering Committee for the Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems project in Ghana.

Rev. Arthur holds an executive MBA from the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Science in administration from the University of Ghana.

He has completed specialised training in senior civil aviation management, air transport economics and strategic airport management at leading institutions including IATA and the Singapore Aviation Academy. He is also a fellow of the Global Association of Certified Chartered Economists.

He has spearheaded landmark initiatives in Ghana’s aviation sector, including the development of consumer protection directives, the establishment of the National Air Transport Facilitation Committee, and the implementation of an economic surveillance program for the industry.

His visionary leadership and regulatory expertise have earned him widespread respect in air transport policy and economic regulation circles.

In addition to his professional achievements, Rev. Arthur is the founder and leader of Kingdom Family International, a Christian-based church.

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 In a decisive vote, Mr. Courage Kwame Kokroko, President Mahama’s nominee has been confirmed as the new District Chief Executive (DCE) for the South Dayi District.

He secured an impressive 84 per cent of the votes.

Mr. James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, extended his warmest congratulations to Mr. Kokroko, expressing his confidence in the newly confirmed DCE’s ability to drive development and improve the lives of the people of South Dayi.

“I have no doubt that Mr. Kokroko will work diligently to drive development and improve the lives of the people of South Dayi. I encourage all stakeholders to rally behind him to ensure progress and prosperity for the district,” Mr. Gunu stated.

The DCE, in an acceptance speech pledged to work collaboratively with Assembly members to drive development in the district.

He emphasized his commitment to advancing President John Dramani Mahama’s agenda, focusing on key areas such as enhancing road networks, ensuring portable water reaches all communities, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, improving access to quality education, and enhancing quality healthcare delivery.

Mr. Kokroko assured citizens of his dedication to working with all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliations, to achieve development goals.

He emphasized the importance of unity in driving development, stating that, “once we come together, we can develop faster.”

This confirmation comes after an initial attempt, where Mr. Kokroko garnered 19 yes votes and 12 no votes, representing 61.29% and 38.71%, respectively.

The Central North Regional Police Command is investigating the alleged murder of a female adult at Kokoase, a suburb of Twifo Praso in the Central Region.  

“Preliminary investigation has revealed that the woman, identified as Tahiru Zenabu, was found dead in her room with a cloth tied around her neck and some blood stains on her hands,” a police brief said on Saturday. 

Items found at the scene included a super glue container, a torn condom package and an apple. 

The body of the deceased had been deposited at the Twifo Praso Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy, it said. 

“Investigation is ongoing to identify and arrest the perpetrators of this heinous crime to face justice,” the brief stated. 

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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.

ALX Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to helping bridge the digital literacy gap in the country, with an ambitious plan to equip about 150,000 youth, including those in rural communities, with 21st-century digital skills this year.

This pledge was made by the Country Manager, Nana Darko Asiedu, during the Youth and Tech Dialogue (YTD), a high-impact event, which brought together industry leaders, educators, and young innovators under the theme “Unlocking Youth Potential for Ghana’s Digital Transformation.”

“At ALX, we believe that digital skills should be acquired at an early age. This year, we plan to train about 150,000 youth, with a special focus on high school graduates and rural communities,” he stated.

Highlighting the significance of YTD, Mr. Asiedu explained that the event was designed to unite key players within Ghana’s technology ecosystem and showcase its impact on youth development.

“We observed that several players within the ecosystem were working in silos. YTD serves as a platform to bring them together, highlight the power of technology, and demonstrate how it is positively transforming the lives of Ghanaian youth. Since YTD is hosted by ALX, we are showcasing our own talents, featuring them as panelists and roundtable discussion participants to drive crucial industry conversations,” he said.

When asked about the prospects of transitioning Ghanaian youth from digital consumers to creators and employers, Nana Darko Asiedu expressed optimism saying:

“Ghana’s digital market is poised for significant growth. Based on the progress we’ve witnessed over the past five years, we believe the ecosystem will scale up rapidly.”

On his part, President of Academic City University College, Professor Fred McBagonluri, urged Ghanaian youth to take an active role in the country’s digital transformation by becoming digital creators rather than mere consumers.

“The world, as we all know, is racing towards a digital future. Thus, we cannot afford for Ghana’s youth to be simply digital consumers; they must be digital creators and must actively participate in the nation’s digital transformation,” he emphasized.

Delivering the keynote address Prof. McBagonluri highlighted the crucial role of young people in shaping Ghana’s digital revolution.

“Our greatest asset is no longer gold, cocoa, or oil—it is the energy, creativity, and talent of our youth. Today, over 60% of Ghana’s population is under the age of 25, making this a goldmine of potential for the country’s digital revolution,” he remarked.

While acknowledging the youth’s role in driving digital transformation, he stressed the need for capacity building and adequate support to empower them. He advocated for intentional efforts, including the integration of coding into the basic education curriculum, expansion of access to tech hubs and online learning, and strategic partnerships with global tech giants to provide certifications and hands-on training. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing affordable internet access and enhancing digital infrastructure in schools and communities by relevant stakeholders.

Furthermore, Prof. McBagonluri called on relevant stakeholders to incorporate strategies into Ghana’s national development plan to unlock the full potential of the youth for digital transformation.

“Building a transformative digital revolution is not just the responsibility of the youth—it is a national mission. It must be embedded in our national development plan with clear milestones and evaluation metrics. The government must take the lead, supported by private sector players and educational institutions,” he stated.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion on the topic: Tech Forward Building a Collaborative Youth and Tech Ecosystem. Together, Dr. Vandyck Lomotey, Country Director for Generations Ghana, Constance Swaniker-Founder & President of Design Technology Institute, Esinam Adorkor-Programme Partner for Digital Economy, Mastercard Foundation, as panellists with Marie-Noelle Nwakolo as moderator, churned out insightful nuggets. The insights focused on the role of collaboration in driving digital transformation, strategies for bridging the skills gap in tech, and opportunities for young innovators and entrepreneurs.

Organized by ALX, Youth & Tech Dialogue is set to become an annual event. In the long term, it aims to serve as a key platform for fostering youth participation in Ghana’s digital transformation journey.

With expectations running high for the Mahama-led administration, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Naa Momo Lartey, has called for fervent prayers for President John Mahama.

She emphasised that special prayers will invoke God’s grace and favour to sustain the President as he works to transform Ghana’s fortunes.

Naa Momo Lartey, who is also the Krowor MP and a member of the Assemblies of God Church, appealed to the 7th Regional Council Meeting of the Greater Accra East Region of the church, held at Shai Hills, where she was the special guest of honour.

“We prayed for grace, mercies, and favour to ascend to the highest office of the land, and the Lord granted it unto us—we are now the light, and everyone is looking up to us,” she told the congregation.

“While we hold the torchlight for Ghana, it is upon all of us to hold up the hands of John Dramani Mahama so they remain raised—so that the sun will stand still, the light will shine, and the world will see that he has truly been called to lead,” she added.

The Minister praised the church’s theme for the year, “Pray Without Ceasing for Supernatural Manifestation,” describing it as timely and fitting, especially following last year’s focus on “Sending the Light.”

She noted that continuous prayer is essential to sustain the “light” needed for the effective functioning of the executive, judiciary, and legislature.

Reflecting on her presence at last year’s event with then-candidate Mahama, Naa Momo underscored the role of Christians in leadership and the need for their influence to reflect in national development.

“People will come to believe that when men and women of faith occupy high office, the country will prosper and enjoy peace. Our prayer now is for sustainability.”

She further encouraged the church to pray for Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, particularly in light of her current health condition.

Also addressing the congregation, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, Rev. Stephen Wengam, stressed the importance of intercession for the nation.

“It’s evident that human effort alone cannot redeem the country—we need divine intervention. Prayer must not replace hard work, but we must also fulfil our Christian obligation as law-abiding citizens,” he said.

“As the light of the nation, we must contribute our quota to national development and reject the vices that plague society,” Rev. Wengam added.

He also announced that Ghana will host the World Assemblies of God Congress in 2026—a major event expected to boost the country’s hospitality sector and economy. He called on state agencies and partners to support preparations for this global gathering.

Regional Superintendent Rev. Andrews Nelson Awintia reflected on the theme from the previous year, which urged members to “send the light.” This year, he said, the focus is on making prayer central in every aspect of life.

“With 13 districts, over 60,000 members, and 500 pastors under my leadership, it is my responsibility to lead our people back to a life of prayer. Prayer will bring unity and peace to our homes, our churches, and our nation,” he said.

“This is a call to righteousness, peace, stability, and even economic progress.”

As a token of appreciation, Naa Momo Lartey presented GH¢100,000 from President Mahama and GH¢20,000 from herself to the church for its continued support.

The church, led by Rev. Stephen Wengam and other senior pastors, presented a citation in her honour.

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US President Donald Trump and his advisers have defended sweeping tariffs on imports and vowed to stay the course, despite market turmoil and calls to avoid a trade war.

In a series of television interviews, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent played down recent stock market falls and Howard Lutnick, the commerce secretary, insisted reciprocal tariffs would be implemented as planned.

Bessent said there was “no reason” to expect a recession as a result of the turmoil. “This is an adjustment process,” he said.

Meanwhile, another top adviser, Kevin Hassett, said more than 50 countries have contacted Trump to try to negotiate a deal.

All three major stock indexes in the US plunged more than 5% on Friday, while the S&P 500 dropped almost 6% in the worst week for the US stock market since 2020.

In a sign market fragility could continue this week, Saudi Arabia’s stock exchange – which trades on Sundays – ended nearly 7% lower, its biggest daily loss since the pandemic, state-owned media said.

US banking giant JP Morgan has predicted a 60% chance of a US and global recession following Trump’s tariffs announcement.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday evening, Trump said European and Asian countries are “dying to make a deal”.

He also pushed back against a reporter’s inquiry about American consumers’ “pain threshold” as fears of steep price increases and a market recession grow.

“I think your question is so stupid,” he told the reporter. “I don’t want anything to go down. But sometimes you have to take medicine to fix something.”

Challenged about the turmoil, Lutnick told CBS News on Sunday that the 10% “baseline” tariff on all imports, which came into effect a day earlier, will definitely “stay in place for days and weeks”.

Lutnick went on say the steeper reciprocal tariffs were still on track.

Higher customs tariffs on roughly 60 countries, dubbed the “worst offenders”, are due to come into effect on Wednesday, 9 April.

When asked about these tariffs, Lutnick said they were coming. “[Trump] announced it and he wasn’t kidding,” he said.

Lutnick also defended tariffs imposed on two tiny Antarctic islands populated only by penguins, saying it was to close “loopholes” for countries such as China to “ship through”.

‘Maximum leverage’

Bessent used an interview with Meet the Press on NBC to argue that Trump had “created maximum leverage for himself, and more than 50 countries have approached the administration about lowering their non-tariff trade barriers, lowering their tariffs, and stopping currency manipulation”.

Kevin Hassett, another top economic adviser to Trump, also repeated the claim that more than 50 countries wanted to begin negotiations. Neither Hassett nor Bessent explained which countries had been in touch.

Elsewhere, Indonesia and Taiwan have said over the weekend that they will not impose retaliatory tariffs after the US announced a 32% levy on imports from both countries.

Vietnam’s leader, To Lam, has asked Trump to delay a 46% duty on Vietnamese exports to the US by “at least 45 days”, according to a letter seen by news agency AFP and the New York Times.

However, China announced on Friday that it will impose a 34% tariff on all US imports, beginning on Thursday 10 April.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned on Saturday that “the world as we knew it has gone”.

Starmer said the UK government will keep pushing for an economic deal with the US that avoids some of the tariffs.

A Downing Street spokesman added Starmer and new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed in a phone call that “an all-out trade war is in no-one’s interest”.

On Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet Trump for trade talks in Washington DC.

Netanyahu, speaking to reporters as he boarded a plane-bound for the US, said he is “the first international leader that is meeting with Trump” since the new tariffs were introduced.

He says this shows their “personal connection and the connection between our countries that is so essential in this time”.

Anti-Trump protests were held in cities across the US over the weekend, in the largest nationwide show of opposition since the president took office in January.

Hundreds of thousands of people turned out in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Washington DC, among other cities, with protesters citing grievances with Trump’s agenda ranging from social to economic issues.

Trump has urged the US to “hang tough” after the market turmoil.

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Traders in Bushmeat and the hunters have launched the National Bushmeat Association of Ghana to effectively regulate their business activities.

It is also to promote the sustainability of the bushmeat industry and benefit key actors in the industry and biodiversity conservation.

Bushmeat is meat from wildlife species hunted for human consumption and sold in notable markets such as Atwemonom in Kumasi, Tarkoradi Market, Techiman and the Kantamanto markets.

It is a primary source of fresh animal protein and income to hunters and the traders.

In Ghana, types of bushmeat hunted include monkeys, bats, grass cutter, antelope and giant rats.

Madam Comfort Badu, the Queenmother of the Atwemonom Bushmeat Traders Association, and President of the National Association, said it would help educate hunters who used dubious means to hunt by drawing them closer. ‘Some hunters use carbide to hunt in the wild, getting those people in the Association will prevent them from engaging in such practices. The health of the citizenry is essential,” she stated.

Madam Badu said the Association would ensure that the bushmeat industry could continue to exist to benefit stakeholders as well as ensure the safety of consumers and animals in the wild.

She said the Association was also to foster unity, facilitate skills for members, regulate prices and avoid hoarding of meat, help promote food safety and to help facilitate conservation of new lives.

The President recommended bushmeat to diabetic and hypertensive patients, explaining that the animals chewed grass, so their meat was healthy for humans.

Mrs Monica Quansah, the President, Kantamanto Bushmeat Traders Association, said bush fires displaced the animals in the wild leading to the extinction of various species.

That affected their businesses since there would be lack of games for sale, she said.

Mr Patrick Essumang, Secretary of the Association encouraged the media to reach out to them with questions instead of misinforming the public about bushmeat.

The elected Executives are Madam Comfort Badu, President, Mr Yaw Fosu Vice President, Mr Patrick Essumang Secretary, Mrs Monica Quansah Organising Secretary, Mr Ishmael Asibi, Assistant Organising Secretary and Grace Tiwaah, Treasurer.

The Bono Regional Women’s Organisers of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have made a passionate appeal to President John Dramani Mahama to nominate Hajia Fatima Binta Abubakar as the Berekum Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

The 12 constituency Women Organisers from the region said Hajia Fatima had the development of the municipality at heart and knew the challenges confronting the area.

Presser

At a press conference at Berekum, the Dormaa West Constituency Women’s Organiser of the NDC, Hajia Asetu Banda, recounted Hajia Fatima’s unwavering commitment, loyalty, sacrifices and significant contributions to the party, particularly during the 2024 general election.

She said Hajia Fatima played a crucial role in the election, leading to the party’s historic victory in the region, especially the winning of the Berekum East seat.

Currently, Hajia Fatima is the Regional Women’s Organiser of the NDC and Presiding Member (PM) of the Berekum Municipal Assembly.

She was among the three persons, namely Kingsford Atta-Owusu and Amo Appau Wonder, who were shortlisted for the position at the end of the vetting process.

Hajia Banda explained that her dedication and commitment to the NDC contributed significantly to the party’s victory in the Berekum East seat, which remained elusive since the tenure of Mr Owusu Acheampong.

She said Hajia Fatima also worked hard to organise all women in the region to secure 11 parliamentary seats out of the 12 in the region, asserting that the delay to nominate her as Berekum MCE had demoralised the party, mainly women in the region.

The acting Women’s Organiser of the Concerned Assembly Members of Ghana (CAMG), Salamatu Adams, said it was fair that Hajia Fatima be appointed for the position because of her commitment to work.

She said she also had a spirit of unity to bring all stakeholders, including traditional leaders to redevelop the municipality.

Mrs Adams expressed surprise as to how Hajia Fatima managed to mobilise women in the region during the 2024 general election.

She was optimistic that she would deliver if given the mandate to serve because of her records as the Regional Women Organiser, Assembly Member and PM.

“We want President Mahama to act now. Our sister, Hajia Fatima, has worked for these positions and deserves to be appointed without further delay,” she said.

Background

In the Bono Region, Berekum East and Sunyani West municipalities were not part of the first batch of names released for the positions of metropolitan, municipal and district chief executives (MMDCEs) dated March 26, 2025, by the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim.

It was in light of this that the constituency women organisers held the press conference to express their concerns about President Mahama’s inability to nominate Hajia Fatima for the Berekum MCE position.

Mr Auberon Jeleel Odoom, National Coordinator of Inclusion Ghana and Secretary General of the Africa Disability Forum, has proposed independent watchdog groups to track government commitments, enforce disability laws, and ensure that funds are used effectively.

He also suggested transparent donor-Organisation of Persons with Disability (OPD) engagements, ensuring that funding priorities align with real needs.

Mr Odoom was a member of a panel that discussed: “Shrinking Aid & Disability Inclusion” at the Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025.

The Global Disability Summit is underway in Berlin, Germany.

The Global Disability Summit aims to galvanize global efforts to realize disability inclusion around the world.

It is a mechanism bringing together a wide variety of high-level stakeholders, engaging and discussing the progress in disability inclusion: governments, multilateral agencies, the private sector, academia and civil society organizations, organizations of persons with disabilities, and foundations.

Mr. Odoom, a participant of the summit, told the Ghana News Agency that there was the need for a long-term technical support to create level playing field.

“Partnerships must amplify, not replace, the voices of marginalized OPDs,” Mr. Odoom emphasized, calling for financial management, governance, and advocacy training to strengthen OPD autonomy.

He said there was the need for a shift from short-term, project-based funding to unrestricted, multi-year core support, guaranteeing OPD stability and long-term impact.

He also called on donors to hire persons with disabilities in their agencies and make sure to consult them to shape funding strategies and disability-inclusive policies.

The Ghanaian foreign affairs minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has said there is no better time than now for Africans to begin doing more business together.

This follows the Donald Trump administration’s sweeping tariffs on African countries and the continuous dwindling aid from major foreign partners.

Ablakwa, who is on a three-day working visit to Nigeria, disclosed this while speaking at a reception organised for him at the weekend by Mobus Properties Limited, the owners of River Park Estate, in Abuja.

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He said that with the fresh tariffs and aid cut, African countries must look inward to survive.

“There is an opportunity within the current geopolitics to make African governments wake up to be more self-dependent, more reliant, and buoyant about supporting local businesses, even at the government-to-government level,” he said.

Ablakwa said business between African countries is below 20 percent, calling on them to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to improve the economy of the continent.

“The time has come for Africans to do more business amongst ourselves, to trade more amongst ourselves. And that was the whole vision behind the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“If you look at the statistics, we don’t do business amongst ourselves. It’s below 20 per cent. If you look at intra-European trade, there’s an excess of 60 per cent. It is the same for intra-Asia trade.

“We need to collapse those artificial barriers and invest in the business ecosystem, creating opportunities, nurturing young entrepreneurs, and we also need to consciously promote made in Africa,” he said.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Mobus Properties Limited, Kojo Ansah Mensah, said River Park had contributed over $250 million to Nigeria’s GDP.

“While global partnerships are vital, the greatest catalyst for our growth lies within our subregion. River Park Estate stands as evidence: Over 75 per cent of our workforce is Nigerian, 20 per cent Ghanaian, and 5 per cent from other ECOWAS nations.

“Together, we’ve generated thousands of jobs, spurred ancillary industries, and contributed over $250 million to Nigeria’s GDP. This is the power of intra-African collaboration.

“Let River Park be a blueprint—a clarion call for Ghanaian and Nigerian businesses to invest boldly in one another’s markets,” Mensah said.

Manager Luis Enrique has stated that Paris Saint-Germain are “motivated to try to finish the season unbeaten” after securing a fourth consecutive Ligue 1 title.

PSG only needed a draw at home against Angers to confirm an unassailable lead over second-placed Monaco.

However, teenage winger Désiré Doué’s stunning 55th-minute volley from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s cross sealed all three points for PSG at the Parc des Princes, ensuring the win against his hometown club.

If PSG manage to avoid defeat in their remaining six matches, they would become only the seventh team from Europe’s top five leagues to complete an entire league season unbeaten. They would join the ranks of Bayer Leverkusen (2024), Juventus (2012), Arsenal (2004), AC Milan (1992), Perugia (1979), and Preston North End (1889).

Luis Enrique’s side are also closing in on Nantes’ Ligue 1 record of 32 unbeaten games from the start of the 1994-95 season, but the manager is determined to go the distance.

“Nobody has done that in France before, so that’s something we want to achieve,” Enrique said. “That would help us in the Champions League and the Coupe de France.”

“Celebrating a title in early April shows that we’ve reached a very high level this season. We’ve achieved this target, but we have more games to play.”

PSG will face Aston Villa for a spot in the Champions League semi-finals after overcoming Liverpool in the last 16, while they also have a Coupe de France final against Reims at the end of May.

Gonçalo Ramos and Vitinha both came close to scoring in the first half against Angers, before Doué’s clinical finish secured PSG’s 11th title in the past 13 seasons and their 13th top-flight crown overall.

“It’s crazy, I’m very happy,” said captain Marquinhos, speaking to beIN Sports. “The titles will remain in history. We have the ambition to win everything. When we don’t win the French championship, it hurts. That has happened to me twice.”

“The team deserves to win. It’s in our DNA to give everything on the field, to have an aggressive philosophy, to sweat for the jersey in every match, no matter the opponent. It’s nice to see the supporters happy.”

With a 26-point lead over Monaco, this is only the third time a team has won Ligue 1 with so many matches left to play. Laurent Blanc’s PSG side triumphed with eight to go in 2016 and Lyon achieved the same with six games remaining in 2007.

Blanc’s PSG team won the league in mid-March nine years ago, making them the only outfit to clinch the title earlier in the calendar year than Enrique’s current vintage.

PSG may have lost major names such as Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe in recent seasons, but a more measured approach in the transfer market – which has seen them bring in Doue, Willian Pacho, Joao Neves and former Napoli winger Kvaratskhelia – appears to be bearing fruit domestically and in Europe.

Having already beaten Monaco in the French Supercup in early January, they could end the season with four trophies.

 

By Patricia Boakye,
7 April

The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) has presented a memorandum to the Constitution Review Committee (CRC), outlining key proposals for constitutional amendments and institutional reforms.

The presentation took place on Friday during a sitting of the CRC in Accra. IDEG’s memorandum highlights proposed reforms in four key areas: Local Governance, Political Parties, Public Service, and Public Enterprises. [ . . . ] The CRC, established by President John Dramani Mahama in January 2025 as part of his campaign pledge, is currently soliciting views and recommendations from citizens, institutions, and civil society organizations across the country.

With a six-month mandate, the committee is tasked with reviewing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, addressing gaps, and providing actionable recommendations to the government. The exercise also includes revisiting earlier works, such as the 2010 Constitution Review Commission and the 2023 Constitution Review Consultative Committee.

IDEG’s submission forms part of a broader national effort to strengthen democratic governance through inclusive and participatory constitutional reform.
Read the full article here: Citi Newsroom

Featured

Samuel Ebo Kwaitoo

Sports News

Apr – 07 – 2025 , 00:44

2 minutes read

Mohammed Sahnoon, the incumbent Secretary -General of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) and President of the Ghana Cycling Federation, has officially declared his intention to seek re-election for a second term in the forthcoming GOC executive elections.

With nominations officially opened on March 28 and set to close on April 18, the race for key positions within the GOC is heating up ahead of the highly anticipated elective congress on April 26 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

In a significant move, Mr Sahnoon has also thrown his weight behind Richard Akpokavie’s bid for the GOC presidency, setting the stage for a fiercely contested battle. The position has been left open following the decision of outgoing GOC

President, Ben Nunoo Mensah, to step aside after serving two consecutive terms at the helm of Ghana’s Olympic movement.

Having served as the GOC’s top administrator for the last four years, Mr Sahnoon believes his wealth of experience makes him the best candidate to continue overseeing the organisation’s affairs.

He outlined his vision for a third term, emphasising the need to strengthen the role of the GOC Executive Committee in decision-making, leverage Olympic Solidarity platforms to boost athlete development, promote gender equity in sports, and enhance sporting infrastructure across the country.

“Together, we will champion policies that prioritise inclusivity, innovation, and accountability,” he pledged.

 Support for Akpokavie

Mr Sahnoon was unequivocal in his endorsement of Akpokavie’s presidential bid, describing him as the ideal candidate to lead the GOC into a new era. He highlighted Akpokavie’s deep understanding of the organisation’s challenges and his ability to implement sustainable solutions.

“Having served as Secretary — General for eight years, he possesses an in-depth knowledge of administrative frameworks, transparency, accountability, and good governance—cornerstones of effective leadership,” Mr Sahnoon stated in a social media post.

He stressed that strong governance was the foundation for progress in sports, adding that Mr Akpokavie’s leadership philosophy is built on empowering institutions, enhancing capacity, upholding ethical standards, and implementing long-term strategic growth plans.

Mr Sahnoon urged the sporting fraternity to rally behind Mr Akpokavie’s candidacy, citing his distinguished service as GOC General Secretary, his tenure as President of the Ghana Hockey Association, and his steadfast commitment to governance excellence.

“His proven track record, coupled with his unwavering dedication to integrity and progress, makes him the ideal leader to take our organisation to new heights,” he declared. “Let us unite behind a vision that puts the future of Ghanaian sports first.”

Featured

Graphic.com.gh

Sports News

Apr – 07 – 2025 , 00:13

1 minute read

Sir Elton John has said he can’t see his sons playing rugby after an infection last summer left him struggling with his eyesight.

“I can’t see TV, I can’t read. I can’t see my boys playing rugby and soccer,” the 78-year-old superstar told The Times.

“It has been a very stressful time because I’m used to soaking it all up. It’s distressing,” he added.

In September, the singer wrote on Instagram that a “severe” infection had left him with “only limited vision” in one eye, adding that his recovery would “take time”.

Sir Elton and his filmmaker husband, David Furnish, have two sons, Zachary and Elijah.

The songwriter said he “can’t see the telly”, adding: “I haven’t been able to see anything since last July.”

He admitted he does get “emotional” about his sight loss.

“But you have to get used to it, because I’m lucky to have the life I have. I still have my wonderful family, and I can still see something out of here,” he said, pointing at his left eye.

“So you say to yourself, just get on with it.”

Sir Elton previously said he’d been unable to finish his new album due to his eyesight issues.

In November, he said “it’s been a while since I’ve done anything”.

But on Friday, he released his new collaborative album with US musician Brandi Carlile, Who Believes In Angels?

The pair worked with producer Andrew Watt and his long-term songwriting partner Bernie Taupin on the album.

Sir Elton said that they “didn’t all agree”, adding that he became “frustrated” when they stood up to him.

He said: “If I want to make a great album aged 76 or 77 I’ve got to be told and they put up with my little foibles, which were really about anxiety, self-doubt and not feeling very well at the time.

“I was tired so I thought, I’m going to abandon this.

“The problem was three other people were involved and I knew that if I walked away from it I would hate myself for the rest of my life.”

He added that it is not the first time he has had doubts about his music.

“You wouldn’t be human if you didn’t have fear and doubt. It’s good for artists. Every album I’ve done, good, bad or indifferent, I’ve had doubts about,” he said.

“And the most doubts I’ve ever had have been with this one.”

The album has mostly been praised by critics. Writing in the Guardian, Lisa Wright awarded it four stars, praising its “poignant moments”, while The Telegraph’s Neil McCormick gave it five stars, calling it a “glorious return to his bombastic, melodious 1970s pomp”.

In January, Sir Elton’s career-spanning greatest hits collection, Diamonds, reached number one after 374 weeks on the charts.

Featuring signature songs like Tiny Dancer, I’m Still Standing and Rocket Man, the 51-track collection has gave the star his ninth number one album.

Last year, Sir Elton also won his first Emmy Award which finally gave him EGOT status, meaning he joined an exclusive club of performers who have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award.

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With confirmation he will leave City when his contract expires at the end of the season, De Bruyne was playing at Old Trafford in City’s famous sky blue for the last time.

It was his 22nd derby appearance overall, spanning a period of blue dominance over red in terms of titles and quality.

Operating in the number 10 role from which Jack Grealish had been dropped, De Bruyne started as though he was determined to make a significant impact.

He had an early shot after turning on to an astute Bernardo Silva pass inside the penalty area but it didn’t trouble Onana. De Bruyne then tried a through ball for Phil Foden, which he overhit.

Deeper into the opening period, he surged forward in the matter of old with a real sense of purpose. Even at 33, De Bruyne was able to outpace Diogo Dalot but Foden didn’t give the Belgium captain much of an angle and the pass went astray.

At the start of the second half, Matheus Nunes picked out De Bruyne on the right side of the penalty area. But the cross was too far in front of Marmoush. A few minutes later, from a similar position, De Bruyne took advantage of Nunes’ overlapping burst and stepped inside. For a second, it appeared De Bruyne would find the corner. Instead, his shot went straight to Onana again.

It was similar to quite a few of De Bruyne recent appearances. The sense of a dying of the light – certainly at this high level – was impossible to escape.

After months of anticipation and growing frustration, the National Identification Authority (NIA) has announced a major push to clear the backlog of unissued Ghana Cards and kick-start fresh registrations in the Greater Accra Region.

In a press release on Sunday, the Authority said beginning Monday, April 7, all its District Offices in the region “will begin issuing cards to Ghanaians who applied between June 2023 and now but have yet to receive them.”

This long-awaited move is expected to bring relief to thousands who have faced delays in acquiring their Ghana Cards—vital for accessing everything from government services to financial transactions.

The NIA assured applicants that they can now return to the specific District Office where they initially registered to collect their cards.

“Additionally, all Ghanaians aged 15 years and above who have not yet registered for the Ghana Card are encouraged to visit any NIA District Office in the Greater Accra Region starting April 7, to get registered.

“From Monday, anyone in the Greater Accra Region who has not yet enrolled for the Ghana Card is encouraged to visit a District Office and complete the registration process—free of charge,” the NIA said.

The Authority has also issued a strong warning that” no fees are to be paid for card issuance or first-time registration.”

The public is urged to “report any NIA staff who demand money for these services.

“However, replacement cards and updates to personal records will still attract a fee, as previously stipulated.”

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 Bank of Ghana will auction $120 million to Bulk Oil Distribution Companies (BDCs) in the second quarter of 2025.

This is the same amount it sold to the BDCs in the first quarter of 2025.

According to its Forex Forward Auction Calendar, $40 million will be sold to the BDCs in each month of quarter 2, 2025.

In April 2025, the Central Bank will auction $20 million each to the BDCs.

The same will be done in May 2025, as two auctions will take place on May 14 and May 28, 2025, respectively.

It would also sell $20 million each to the BDCs on June 12, 2025, and June 26, 2025, respectively.

The Central Bank mentioned in a notice that the timelines for each auction would be between 9.30 am and 10.30 am on the date of the auction, whilst the announcement of the auction will be made at 3.00 pm.

It concluded that the BDCs Forex Forward Auction will be governed by the guidelines published and available on the Bank of Ghana website.

The sale of US dollars to the BDCs is to ensure that the oil importers have adequate foreign exchange liquidity to purchase finished oil products for consumption.

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.

Ghana Athletics (GA), the national governing body for track and field, has suspended two individuals—Mr. Wisdom Loh and Mr. Jeffery Nkrumah—from all athletics-related activities.

In a press release, GA stated that the suspensions were imposed due to actions “against the spirit of the World Athletics Code of Conduct (Article 3.3.17 of the WA Integrity Code of Conduct [in force from 1 November 2019]).” The duo is accused of “undermining the authority of GA and bringing into disrepute” the organization.

The investigation will also examine whether their conduct “directly or indirectly facilitated the exploitation of Athletes whether based in Ghana, and/or foreign-based Ghanaian Athletes.” GA has ordered Loh and Nkrumah to “cease and desist from presenting themselves, in any setting, as representatives of Ghana Athletics and/or as licensed representatives of athletes from Ghana.”

The statement further warned athletes, coaches, and officials against engaging with the suspended individuals on GA-related matters, stating that anyone who continues to do so “will be considered as an accomplice and may be sanctioned by GA.” Potential sanctions include prohibition from participating in GA-sanctioned events.

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has announced the commencement of the issuance of Ghana Cards in the Greater Accra Region, starting Monday, April 7, 2025.

The exercise covers both the backlog of printed cards and new registrations at all NIA District Offices.

According to the NIA, all Ghanaians who applied for card issuance, replacements, or updates to their personal records since June 2023 but have not yet received their cards, can now collect them from the respective District Offices where they registered.

Additionally, Ghanaians aged 15 years and above who have not yet registered for the Ghana Card are encouraged to do so starting April 7 at any NIA District Office in the Greater Accra Region.

The NIA has strongly emphasized that the issuance of printed backlog cards and first-time registrations is completely free of charge.

The Authority is urging the public to report any NIA staff who request fees for these services, as such actions are unauthorized.

Services such as card replacement and personal record updates, however, will continue to attract the usual fees at District Offices.

The NIA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every Ghanaian obtains the Ghana Card as a vital tool for identification.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has dismissed rumors surrounding the health of Ghana’s Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, assuring the public that she is in good health and will soon resume her duties.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang went abroad to seek medical care after initial treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) after experiencing a sudden illness following her official duties on Friday, March 28, 2025, but there were speculations that the Vice President had passed on.

Addressing Ghanaians in Lagos, Nigeria on Sunday, April 6, Ablakwa emphasised that prayers from Ghanaians both at home and abroad have contributed to her recovery.

“Some fears about the state of our mother, the first female vice president of the Republic of Ghana. I also want to assure that she is doing very, very well. Your prayers worked, your prayers from all of us, Ghanaians at home and abroad, have really worked.

“I have heard from her, so I know what I am talking about, and she’s doing well,” he stated.

Ablakwa urged the public to disregard what he described as “vicious and unGhanaian evil propaganda” being circulated about Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s health.

He expressed confidence in her ability to inspire young girls and women across the nation.

“Please ignore all of that very vicious and unGhanaian evil propaganda that some people are speculating. Our mother is doing very, very well, and very soon she is going to return to her duties, serving Ghana, making all of you proud and particularly inspiring our young girls, our daughters, to know that there is nothing our women cannot achieve—that women are as good as men and that what men can do, women can also do and do it better,” Ablakwa added.

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