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Nanisto News Blog of Friday, 30 May 2025

Source: Manteaw Amos

Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah and Anne Sansa Daly

Media personality and social activist Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah has called for the immediate arrest of self-styled medical practitioner, ‘Dr’ Anne Sansa Daly, after exposing her as a fake doctor.

His comments follow President John Dramani Mahama’s decision on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, to revoke Anne Sansa Daly’s appointment to the Board of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) after concerns emerged regarding her lack of a valid license to practice medicine in Ghana.

Daly had been publicly presenting herself as “Dr. Anne Daly” and offering health advice on television and at public events.

However, reports indicate that official responses from both the Ghana Medical and Dental Council and the American Board of Family Medicine confirmed that she holds no valid medical qualifications in either jurisdiction.

Commenting on the matter in an interview on Metro TV on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah stated that Anne Sansa Daly has committed a serious crime for which she should not be spared but prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to other quack medical practitioners.

“What we are calling on the Medical and Dental Council to do is to recognize that this is a crime. They should not be afraid. They should go ahead and make sure that the girl is arrested and prosecuted. Otherwise, the next time they arrest another person, they will lack the moral temerity to prosecute. If this happens in full view of the public and they fail to act, they will have no moral right to pursue others,” he said.

“Even if she was not administering medicine to patients, her misrepresentation on TV as a medical doctor is a crime. It is a serious offense, and we must not sweep it under the carpet. I believe the Medical and Dental Council should lead the charge in her arrest and prosecution. When I release the Saturday edition of my show about this lady, it will shock the entire country,” Afrifa-Mensah added.

He, however, expressed doubt that the government would move forward with Anne Sansa Daly’s prosecution.

“I know that this government will not act on this lady’s case because she has connections in high places. I don’t know what she will use to shield herself, but I know there are people in this government who will protect her,” he claimed.

KA

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Cedi ends May selling at GH¢10.30 per $1

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, continues to appreciate on the interbank market against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.

In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢10.29and a selling price of GH¢10.30 to the dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢13.88 and sold at GH¢13.89, while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢11.69 and a selling price of GH¢11.70

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 30, 2025, at 8:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢11. 50, while the pound is selling at GH¢15.80 at some forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢13.30 on the retail market.

Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has announced that Ghana is expected to receive $360 million from the IMF in June 2025 to further stabilise the cedi.

SP/MA

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Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Elikplim Akurugu

Elikplim Akurugu, Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, joined students of Abokobi Presby School and Akporman Model 2 Basic School to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, focusing on promoting dignity, self-care, and education for young girls.

The event, held under the theme of improving menstrual health and hygiene, featured the distribution of free sanitary pads to girls, in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s policy initiative aimed at supporting girls in basic schools.

This initiative is a key step toward eliminating barriers that cause many girls to miss school during their periods.

Akurugu commended the President’s commitment to the welfare of young girls and applauded the involvement of mNotify Company Ltd., which also donated sanitary pads to support the celebration. She emphasized the importance of hygiene education, speaking directly to the girls about the need for self-care, cleanliness, and confidence during menstruation.

She encouraged them to remain focused on their studies, assuring them that their dreams are valid and within reach. Her words of motivation reflected a broader mission to empower young girls beyond the classroom.

Akurugu has long championed menstrual hygiene in her constituency. Before entering Parliament, she independently led efforts to distribute sanitary pads to schoolgirls, a cause that has now aligned with national policy. Her continued advocacy highlights her dedication to girls’ health and education in Dome-Kwabenya.

The occasion drew support from several dignitaries, including Edmund Agboh, Municipal Chief Executive of the Ga East Municipal Assembly; Edem Agbenyefia, District NADMO Director; Eric Sey, Municipal Education Director; Maame Yaa Nhyira Essel, Municipal Health Director; and Vida Tangwam, Assembly Member for the Abokobi Electoral Area.

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GraphicOnline

May – 30 – 2025 , 06:31

2 minutes read

Yesterday, President John Dramani Mahama an­nounced plans to reintroduce road tolls through a digital system; and it was portrayed as a new, forward-thinking initiative aligned with Ghana’s digital transformation. While we acknowledge his recognition of the importance of digitising the economy, a process cham­pioned by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, it is essential to set the record straight.

The fact remains that the groundwork for a digital road tolling system was laid by the NPP government well before President Mahama assumed office in January this year.

In 2021, the NPP administra­tion made the bold decision to suspend manual toll collection. This move was driven by four key considerations:

1. Low revenue yield – Tra­ditional toll booths generated only about GH¢70 million an­nually, a relatively insignificant amount in the broader fiscal framework.

2. Severe congestion – Toll booths contributed to traffic bottlenecks and increased CO₂ emissions, negatively impacting the environment.

3. High vehicle operating costs – Delays at booths led to higher fuel consumption and faster wear on vehicles.

4. Revenue leakages – The manual system was fraught with inefficiencies and prone to human interference.

In response, the NPP gov­ernment, building on the solid digital infrastructure (Ghana Card and Digital Address System) it had put in place, pursued a modern, technol­ogy-driven solution. In 2024, Cabinet granted approval for the reintroduction of road tolls through a digital collection sys­tem, following a formal request by the then Minister for Roads and Highways. This policy shift was publicly confirmed in the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review by the Minister for Finance.

To ensure efficient execution and minimise bureaucratic inef­ficiencies, the Ministry adopted a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under the Pub­lic-Private Partnership Act, 2020 (Act 1039). The approach was through an unsolicited proposal, which underwent a process including:

• Initial Business Case devel­opment

• Comprehensive Feasibility Assessment

• Sector-wide evaluation and competitive procurement procedures

This rigorous process led to the selection of an indigenous Ghanaian company as the con­cessionaire. A detailed Conces­sions Agreement was prepared and submitted to the 8th Parlia­ment for approval. Regrettably, due to time constraints at the close of that parliamentary term, the agreement could not be finalised.

Rather than continuing this well-advanced process, the new administration chose to trun­cate it. The current Minister has since announced plans to reopen the process to other entities. While we respect every administration’s right to choose its procurement approach, and recognising the fact that every procurement method has its merits and limitations, we strongly object to any attempt to claim credit for an initiative that was already in motion.

Let the record reflect this clearly: the digitisation of road toll collection was conceived, structured, and set in motion by the NPP government. What is needed now is continuity—not revisionist claims or political repackaging.

Ghanaians deserve leadership that builds on progress, not one that repurposes the work of others as their own.

The writer is Member of Parliament for Bantama and former Minister of Roads and Highways

BY FRANCIS ASENSO-BOAKYE

Ahead of sentencing, Joshlin’s grandmother, Amanda Smith-Daniels, once again pleaded with her daughter to “bring my [grand]child back or tell me where she is”.

THE government has assured its international partners that it is making good progress in discussions with all remaining creditors in the debt restructur­ing perimeter.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Finance in Accra yesterday said the government remained committed to achiev­ing a fair and mutually beneficial resolution with all creditors.

The Ministry expressed ap­preciation to its partners for their forbearance, cooperation and support.

It added that in line with Gha­na’s commitments to the official creditors, under the G20 Com­mon Framework, no creditor had been treated preferentially.

“This is consistent with the principle of Comparability of Treatment”, it explained.

“We have strictly applied the provisions in the Memorandum of Understanding with our official creditors, and in particu­lar, have continued to remain in arrears with all external creditors included in the debt restructur­ing perimeter”, it said.

Africa Policy Lens (APL), a Policy Research and Analyst Organisa­tion, has commended Ghana’s recent macroeconomic progress but warned that the appreciation of the cedi could be short-lived if not supported by deeper structural reforms.

According to APL, while the cedi had appreciated significantly in the first half of 2025, this has largely been driven by temporary measures.

It mentioned heavy forex market interventions by the Bank of Ghana (nearly $1 billion between January and May 2025) and tough fiscal decisions such as freezing government spending and suspending payment of ar­rears as factors that have signifi­cantly contributed to these gains.

“These gains, while encourag­ing, are built on temporary pillars that require deeper reforms to become sustainable,” APL noted.

APL points out that Ghana has seen similar periods of sta­bility before, particularly between

Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has inaugurated a new board of the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA).

The Minister, who chairs the Board in accordance with the Free Zone Act, 1995 (Act 504), administered the oath of office and secrecy during a swearing-in ceremony held on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, Madam Ofosu-Adjare noted that the Free Zones Authority Act clearly stipulates the Minister must chair the Board, stating, “in this case, myself.”

She highlighted the strategic role of the Board in advancing the Free Zones’ development and supporting the Authority’s core objective of attracting investment and stimulating national growth.

“We have pledged to make Free Zones stronger and even greater. At the end of the day, we want to have a specialised economic zone in Ghana as part of our mandate,” she said.

The Minister further emphasised the Board’s commitment to securing litigation-free land banks and fostering a business-friendly environment.

“We’ll try and get a lot of investment. We’ll try and get land banks that are litigation-free, so that our investors can invest in comfort. We’ll continue to create the enabling environment for businesses to thrive in Ghana,” she said.

Alongside the Minister, board members include Mr Albert Tetteh Nyakotey, Mr Kongwura Adamu Seidu Jinkurige, Mr Andani Dasana Yakubu, and Mr Takalikpe Wura Alhaji Adams Mahama. Other members are Dr Stella N.A. Dartey, Madam Bawa Mavis Meliga, Mr Abu Juan Jagiara, and Mr Franklin Adu Tutu Sarfo.

Established on 31 August 1995 under the Free Zone Act, 1995 (Act 504), the Ghana Free Zones Authority was created to promote economic development through the establishment of free zones.

The Ghana Free Zones Programme aims to encourage the processing and manufacturing of goods within Export Processing Zones (EPZs) and support commercial and service activities at seaports and airports.

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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.

Deputy Commissioner of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Mr. Alexander Twum Barimah

A Deputy Commissioner of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Mr. Alexander Twum Barimah, has sharply criticized the immediate past administration led by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for what he described as years of neglect toward the commission.

Speaking on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ghana Yensom morning show, hosted by Odehyeeba Kofi Essuman and Afia Brempomaa Hinneh, Mr. Twum Barimah revealed that for nearly a decade, the commission received no logistical support from the previous government—not even a single bicycle.

“For eight years, we were abandoned. Not a single logistics item was added to our existing resources. It was as though the fight against narcotics was not a priority,” he lamented, suggesting that the past administration was complicit in undermining efforts to combat drug trafficking in the country.

In stark contrast, he lauded the current administration under President John Dramani Mahama, noting that in just three months, the commission has received three new vehicles to aid operations.

“This President has shown genuine commitment. In just a short time, our morale has been restored, and we’re now equipped to deliver on our mandate. Our staff now walk with pride,” he said.

Mr. Twum Barimah further disclosed that under the new leadership of Brigadier Mante, NACOC has already recorded 16 high-profile drug-related arrests—a sharp improvement compared to previous years.

The Deputy Commissioner announced that the commission is actively working to expand its presence by establishing district offices nationwide.

Letters have already been dispatched to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) requesting office space for newly deployed personnel.

Touching on the commission’s core responsibilities, he reminded the public that NACOC has the authority to arrest and prosecute individuals involved in the illicit drug trade. “Our focus is on the supply chain, not the end user,” he added.

He also educated listeners on the types of narcotics commonly pushed in Ghana, including cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and a growing threat known as “red,” a mixture that often includes Tramadol.

“While 50 to 100 mg of Tramadol is permitted, anything from 225 mg to 2,250 mg is illegal and extremely dangerous,” he clarified.

He issued a stern warning to drug sellers, pubs, and pharmacies flouting the law, stating that NACOC will soon embark on a nationwide clampdown.

With renewed support and clear leadership, NACOC is aiming to reassert itself in the national fight against narcotics and restore public confidence in Ghana’s law enforcement institutions, he concluded.

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GraphicOnline

May – 30 – 2025 , 06:20

2 minutes read

The government has assured mining companies in the country of stable power supply to boost productivity and contribute to sustainable economic development.

The provision of reliable and affordable power is expected to enhance the operations of mining firms and avoid interruptions to their operations due to high dependency of their machinery on power.

Mr John Abu Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transitions, gave the assurance at the opening of the 18th Edition of the West African Mining and Power Exposition Conference (WAMPEX) in Accra on Wednesday.

More than 5,000 registered delegates and 220 exhibitors from 30 countries are participating in the three-day event on the theme: “Driving sustainable investment opportunities in West Africa.”

Mr Jinapor said the mining and energy sectors were the backbone of global development and that power fluctuations in those sectors could affect production, safety and profitability.

The Minister said recent reports indicated that power generation had been stable, adding that measures were underway to ensure transmission efficiency.

In that regard, Mr Jinapor announced that he had granted approval to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to inject 200 new transformers in major capital cities in the country to enhance transmission efficiency.

“I’ve granted approval to ECG as a matter of urgency to inject about 200 new transformers in our major capital cities in order to ensure that we do not just generate power, but we are able to transmit that power and distribute that power to consumers in an effective and efficient manner”, he said

Mr Jinapor said drilling activities along Ghana’s offshore basin had begun as part of policy actions that would revitalise and ensure regulatory certainty and predictability for investors in the power and petroleum sector

“The government has embarked on a couple of policy actions grounded around to ensure that there’s regulatory certainty, predictability for investors in both the power and petroleum sector,” he added.

Mr Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, said the global energy transition and climate action had informed the need to rethink traditional mining extraction models.

He said the $1.2 billion foreign direct investment recorded in Ghana’s mining sector last year was an indication that the policies the Government had put in place had boosted investor confidence.

“With decades of commercial mining experience that has made Ghana Africa’s largest gold producer and a top 10 global supplier, we have learned that true wealth lies not just in what we take from the earth but in how we develop it,” Mr Buah said.

Mr Michael Edem Akafia, President, Ghana Chamber of Mines, said sustainability must be at the centre of mining operations and emphasised the need for long-term survival and viability of the mining sector without compromising the environment.

He urged players in the sector to develop the supply value chain by strengthening capacity to ensure effective local participation.

Mr Akafia said the Chamber fully supported the Government’s newly-created Gold Board and pledged to support its successful operationalisation.

Source: GNA

Ghana’s trade volume with Germany reached €180,923,000 in the first quarter of 2025, Mr Daniel Krull, German Ambassador to Ghana, has said. 

Total exports to Germany stood at €85,660,000, while imports amounted to €95,263,000, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 49 per cent from the same period in 2024.

In the first quarter of 2024, trade totalled €127,673,000, with exports at €63,682,000 and imports at €63,991,000, representing a 44 per cent growth from 2023.

Mr. Krull made this known during a press briefing at his residence to introduce a project titled “New Northern Dimensions – Delights from Northern Ghana and Northern Germany.”

The project is a cultural and diplomatic initiative that blends culinary creativity, cultural exchange, and outreach. It forms part of activities marking the 836th anniversary of Hamburg, a city in northern Germany.

The initiative aims to highlight the rich cultures of northern Ghana and northern Germany while strengthening ties between the two regions. 

Mr. Krull said the trade figures were encouraging, noting that over recent years, trade volumes had ranged between $500 million and $700 million. 

He explained that Ghana’s exports largely comprised cocoa, gold, tropical foods, and other raw materials, while Germany’s exports included vehicles, machinery, and spare parts. 

The Ambassador stressed the importance of sustained bilateral trade, particularly given Ghana’s preferential access to the German and broader European market—an advantage not extended to all countries. 

“We have a strong and stable market to enable Ghanaian manufacturers and agribusiness people to focus their businesses on. They must have a reliable framework of investment and planning,” he said. 

Mr. Krull added: “Germany is not only the home of car manufacturers but trade fairs, so we organised some of the specialised trade fairs for machinery, construction and mining. If you take food logistics for instance, it is the basic route for the Ghanaian investor to enter the European market.”

The 836th Hamburg anniversary celebration will be held on Thursday, May 29, at the Ambassador’s residence, with members of the Diplomatic Corps, business community, government officials, and private sector representatives expected to attend. 

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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.

The National Road Safety Authority (NSRA) will, in the coming days, sue Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in the Greater Accra Region for the unlawful placement of billboards along roads.

This comes after the MMDAs failed to comply with the NRSA’s 21-day ultimatum directive for them to remove all unauthorised billboards and posters, particularly within road medians.

Abraham Amaliba, Acting Director-General of the NRSA, said they wanted to meet MMDAs to give them a grace period to remove all the illegal billboards in their jurisdiction after the 21-day ultimatum, but they failed to show up at a scheduled meeting on Thursday, May 29, to discuss the non-compliance with the directive

He said, due to their absence, they were going to sue them to enforce the law on unlawful billboards sited along roads in Ghana.

“Their failure to come means that they are not interested, so what we can do is to appear in court with them.”

“For now, we are proceeding on the basis that they have attended this programme, and we are going to proceed on the basis that we have met them, and so we are going to enforce the law,” he added.

Mr Amaliba said these billboards were making it difficult for motorists to see from afar.

Meanwhile, the NRSA in April gave MMDAs in the Greater Accra region a 21-day ultimatum to remove unauthorised billboards that pose a risk to motorists and pedestrians.

The Authority cited the increasing number of unregulated billboards, particularly those erected on road medians and near intersections, as an imposing safety concern.

According to the NRSA, many of these billboards obstruct drivers’ views and serve as distractions.

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.