Dr Bonaa, seated second from left during a panel discussion

The Acting Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Dr Adam Bonaa is leading Ghana’s delegation to the Twelfth Meeting of the United Nations Working Group on Firearms (WGF), which opened today, April 28, 2025, in Vienna, Austria.

The high-level meeting, convened under the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, brings together member states and international stakeholders to advance efforts against the illicit manufacture and trafficking of firearms. This year’s agenda focuses on the role of the UN Firearms Protocol in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and criminal justice responses.

In a strong show of Ghana’s commitment to global peace and security, the Acting Executive Secretary during a key session, delivered a presentation titled “The Contribution of the Firearms Protocol to Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Efforts: The Ghana Experience.”

His presentation highlighted Ghana’s national strategies for firearms control, including the commission’s work on weapons marking, arms stockpile management, weapons destruction, the legal framework on firearms, and public education campaigns.

He made a compelling case for integrating the Firearms Protocol into regional peace and security frameworks and called for increased cross-border collaboration to tackle the root causes of firearms trafficking.

Speaking ahead of the session, Dr Adam Bonaa emphasized the importance of aligning local actions with global standards.

“Small arms proliferation is not just a national security issue—it is a regional and international concern that threatens development, destabilizes communities, and prolongs conflicts. Ghana remains firmly committed to the full implementation of the Firearms Protocol and to sharing our experiences in support of international cooperation,” he stated.

The two-day meeting will also review criminal justice responses to firearms-related offenses and assess progress in implementing the Firearms Protocol across member states.

Ghana’s participation underscores its leadership role in West Africa on issues of arms control, peacebuilding, and organized crime prevention.

The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons continues to engage actively in global forums to promote a safer, more secure, and peaceful society through effective arms regulation and international cooperation.

GA

President John Mahama has restated his government’s commitment to developing the Entrepreneural abilities of Ghanaian youth.

He said the launch of ‘Adwumawura’, an Akan word which means “the job owner” is testament to this commitment.

“The Adwumawura programe, which we are launching today, is a flagship fulfilment of that promise I made in the campaign of 2024. The adwumawura programme is not a mere policy initiative. It is a declaration of faith in the extraordinary potential of the Ghanaian youth. It is our commitment to nurturing their ambitions and translating their ideas into thriving enterprises that will drive our nation’s progress. The adwumawura programme seeks to stimulate youth employment, entrepreneurship and innovation across key sectors of our economy,” he declared at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi on April 28.

According to him, “Our goal is to create at least 10,000 Ghanaian youth-owned businesses every year over a 4-year period.”

He used the launch to throw light of the relevance of the programme to prospective and existing youth entrepreneurs.

“This initiative will provide business development training. So, if you have your business or you want to establish a business, you will be trained on how to a manage a business. A lot of businesses fail because the promoters of the businesses do not understand how to manage a business,” he said.

President Mahama added that, “The programme will also provide access to funding. Most young people have good ideas, but they don’t have access to capital. The programme will provide coaching and mentorship. And so, for some of those you saw on the documentary, these are young entrepreneurs who have already established their businesses and so when we help you under the adwumawura programme, we will assign you to one of these entrepreneurs who have experience in running a business to guide and support you so your business can also grow.”

“We will also provide technological support and access to equipment and machinery. Somebody establishes a business, but he needs some machinery to enhance his productivity, and he cannot afford the equipment. Adwumawura is there for you. To help you buy your equipment. Adwumawura will also help with market access and facilitation. You will get support in how to market your product so that you can grow your business. And we will also have 367 days a year of comprehensive business advisory services. Once you set up your business it does not mean Adwumawura will leave you like that. If you have any problem, you can always come back and describe what your problem is, and they will support you to go forward,” the President explained further.

He assured that, “These businesses will be selected, if your business is not selected this year, it may be selected next year,”

Watch: Playback: Mahama launches ‘Adwumawura’ initiative

By Laudia Sawer

Tema, April 28, GNA – Mr Joshua Teye Agudah, the Assemblyman for the Dade Agbo electoral area in the Tema Metropolis, has called on the government to reassign portions of the Zoomlion sanitation contract to assembly members.

The contract between the government of Ghana and Zoomlion Ghana Limited had recently come under scrutiny, generating public discussion.

Issues with the contracts that had been criticised covers alleged overpayments and unexecuted ones, as well as discrepancies in workers’ compensation.

Mr Agudah, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), stated that Mr Malik Basintale, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), should reassign some portions of the contracts to the metropolitan, municipal, and district chief executives (MMDCEs) to be given to assembly members and unit committee members.

He said this in reaction to Mr Basintale’s declaration not to renew the existing sanitation contract with Zoomlion Ghana Limited, if the current wage structure for sanitation workers remained unchanged, criticising the current arrangement, where workers received GH¢250 monthly, while Zoomlion retained GH¢600 as management fees from the GH¢850 allocated per worker, describing it as exploitative and unjust.

Mr Agudah said portions such as street cleaning and drainage desilting could be handled by the assembly members, who would engage community members to take up such works in their electoral area.

“The majority of the assembly members cannot work under any company due to the pressure and problems in our communities, and we are less empowered in the area of sanitation; this will do us good and the country as a whole.”

He added that they could supervise the work and ensure fair pay because they are community members and sanitation agents.

GNA

LS/CAA

Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa

China remains committed to fostering peaceful international relations and a fair, rules-based global trading system, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana Tong Defa has said.

Speaking at a media engagement in Accra, Ambassador Tong emphasised the importance of diplomatic cooperation, mutual respect and economic inclusiveness while condemning rising global protectionism and unilateral tariff policies, particularly those of the United States.

He stressed the need for dialogue and mutual respect in international relations, warning against the rise of unilateralism and economic coercion.

The Ambassador described the tariff hikes as violations of the global multilateral trading system and said that such actions threaten the foundations of international cooperation and pose risks to global economic stability.

According to him, the new U.S. tariff policies target over 180 countries and regions, including vulnerable Least Developed Countries (LDCs) with some Chinese products facing tariffs as high as 145% – and in certain cases, like solar panels, over 3,000%.

“This severely infringes upon the legitimate rights and interests of all countries, violates World Trade Organisation rules, undermines the rule-based multilateral trading system and disrupts the global economic order.

“The Chinese government strongly condemns and resolutely opposes such moves. By taking such actions, the United States defies fundamental laws of economics and market principles, disregards the balanced outcomes achieved through multilateral trade negotiations…and weaponises tariffs to exert maximum pressure for selfish interests. This is a typical act of unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying,” he stated.

Multilateralism

He however called for multilateralism and collaboration in shaping the future of international relations.

“There are no winners in tariff wars. International affairs should be addressed through consultation, not coercion. The future of the world must be decided collectively,” he stressed.

He urged countries to uphold the principles of fairness, justice and mutual respect in global governance and to stand on the right side of history.

“As the second-largest economy and second-largest market for consumer goods, China is committed to opening ever-wider to the world, no matter how the international situation changes. We will continue to advance high-standard opening-up.

“We will steadily expand institutional opening-up in rules, regulations, management, and standards. We will implement high-standard policies for trading, investment, liberalisation and facilitation. We will foster a first-class market-oriented, law-based and internationalised business environment. We will share our development opportunities with the world to achieve mutual benefits,” he stated.

Support for African Trade and Development

Ambassador Tong also spoke of China’s continued support for African development, particularly in the area of trade.

He cited the country’s decision to grant 100% zero-tariff treatment to all LDCs with diplomatic ties to China – including 33 African nations. This, he noted, makes China the first G20 member to offer such comprehensive preferential access.

In addition, China has signed bilateral investment treaties with 34 African countries and double taxation avoidance agreements with 21 of them.

“China is not only opening up to the world but also sharing development opportunities, especially with our African brothers and sisters,” he said.

Neighbour diplomacy

Ambassador Tong also took the opportunity to highlight key takeaways from the recently held Central Conference on Work Related to Chinese Neighbouring Countries, in China.

That conference emphasised the critical role of neighbouring countries to development, prosperity and security… and called for the building of a “community with a shared future”.

Ambassador Tong explained that China will deepen cooperation in various fields – including economic integration, infrastructure, security and cultural exchange – while maintaining the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness.

He also pointed out that, following the conference, President Xi Jinping embarked on successful visits to Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia, signalling the country’s resolve in strengthening regional ties.

Featured

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson

Apr – 28 – 2025 , 15:28

1 minute read

Accra, April 28, GNA – The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the youth-led volunteer group Bus Stop Boyz, held a massive clean-up exercise at Nationalism Park in Accra.

The event marked a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and tourism sustainability in Ghana’s capital.

The clean-up exercise was led by Mr Gilbert Abeiku Santana Aggrey, Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, and was joined by Mr Jones Aruna Nelson, Director of Corporate Affairs, and Nana Agyenim Boateng, Director of Administration at the GTA.

Together with Bus Stop Boyz and local volunteers, the team undertook a rigorous cleaning effort to restore the beauty and cleanliness of one of Ghana’s symbolic national spaces.

To show appreciation for their civic dedication, GTA commended the patriotic drive of the Bus Stop Boyz to keep Ghana’s public spaces clean and vibrant.

Speaking to the media after the clean-up exercise, Mr Aggrey emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration to maintain and preserve Ghana’s heritage landmarks.

“We call on the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly and all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to prioritise the cleanliness, safety, and eco-friendliness of our historic structures.

“Under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, the GTA is fully committed to protecting, marketing, and maintaining all tourism sites to offer a world-class experience to every visitor,” he said.

Established under Act 817 2011 and further strengthened by Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2393 in 2019, the Ghana Tourism Authority is mandated to register, license, and promote tourist sites and attractions across the country.

While ownership and direct management of many sites fall under entities such as the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB), the Forestry Commission, traditional authorities, and private stakeholders, GTA continues to play a critical leadership role in shaping and marketing Ghana’s tourism experience.

“Tourism is a collective responsibility. We urge government agencies, the private sector, traditional leaders, civil society, and local communities to join hands in safeguarding our

natural and cultural heritage for the benefit of present and future generations,” Mr Aggrey added.

The clean-up campaign was part of GTA’s broader vision to promote responsible tourism, foster environmental consciousness, and revitalise tourism infrastructure, ensuring Ghana’s attractions remain accessible, attractive, and globally competitive.

GNA

KOA

President John Dramani Mahama

The launch of the Adwumawura Programme is underway at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi.

The Adwumawura Programme, spearheaded by the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), is aimed at creating sustainable jobs and providing better livelihoods for young people.

The programme will empower 10,000 young Ghanaians, aged between 18 and 35, each year to start and grow their businesses.

President John Dramani Mahama is the guest of honour.

Watch a livestream of the event below:

BAI/SA

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President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the Adwumawura Programme, a flagship initiative aimed at addressing youth unemployment and fostering entrepreneurship in Ghana.

The launch event took place at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi on Monday, April 28, 2025, drawing a significant audience of government officials, young entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

The Adwumawura Programme is designed to create, mentor, and support at least 10,000 businesses annually, with a strong focus on empowering young people aged 18 to 35. Beneficiaries will receive comprehensive assistance, including skills training, mentorship, access to start-up capital, and equipment.

This holistic approach aims to ensure the sustainability and success of new businesses.

Speaking at the event, President Mahama emphasised the importance of the programme in tackling youth unemployment, which he described as one of Ghana’s most pressing challenges.

He highlighted the government’s commitment to creating decent and sustainable jobs for young people, aligning with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s broader agenda to foster economic growth and innovation.

The initiative is backed by a GH₵100 million allocation from the 2025 Budget Statement, presented by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson. In addition to the Adwumawura Programme, the government plans to roll out complementary initiatives such as the National Apprenticeship Programme, offering free technical and vocational training to further support the youth.

Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, also addressed the gathering, urging young people to take full advantage of the programme to build a brighter future for themselves and the nation.

He reiterated the government’s dedication to empowering the youth and creating an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive.

The launch of the Adwumawura Programme marks a significant step in Ghana’s efforts to combat unemployment and position the youth as key drivers of national development. With its comprehensive support system, the programme is expected to transform the entrepreneurial landscape and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Read also…

Forgive our mistakes, we’ll do better in future – Bawumia begs Ghanaians

Isaac Yaw Ofosu, who is currently recovering from drug addiction, has shared his inspiring and miraculous transformation journey, expressing his sincere gratitude to the Church of Pentecost for helping to save him from his condition.

At the age of 14, Mr. Ofosu ignorantly indulged in drug abuse, becoming hooked on marijuana, tramadol, cigarettes, alcohol, and other substances, as it was prevalent in his parents’ business. Gradually, he became addicted for over twenty years. For more than two decades, he lived a life marked by pain, isolation, and hopelessness.

What began as a form of fun turned into a long-standing habit, deteriorating his body and damaging his immune system; something he later wished to quit but could not.

“My dad was selling weed and my mom sold alcohol. So, I used to sniff the weed and drink the alcohol. I used to take jot, tramol and every drug. I didn’t know anything but I started mingling with some boys in the area and we were engaged in deviant acts. It got to a point I wasn’t sleeping at home and I could join other boys who were usually contracted to beat or kill people. Later, I realized that what I was doing was not right so I tried to stop but couldn’t because whenever I tried, I would hear voices pushing me to go back.”

Being the youngest child of his parents, they least expected this from him. However, ignorantly, when he started sniffing drugs, Mr. Ofosu did not realize that he could become addicted.

Fortunately, he was saved by some members of the Church of Pentecost at the Nii Okaiman District. He was taken to a rehab center and discharged after a year.

“All I have to say is that God bless them so much for their support,” Mr. Ofosu expressed.

According to Dr. Albert Sedohia, addiction is not curable, but it can only be managed depending on the individual’s lifestyle.

 “They’re chronic conditions that have treatment modalities available. So, he is in recovery and forever he will be in recovery,” Dr. Sedohia emphasized.

However, it is everyone’s prayer that Mr. Ofosu will not relapse during his recovery and will remain committed to the trade he is about to start.

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’s gold reserves has hit a significant mark in its economic strategy with its gold reserves increasing to 31.01 tonnes as of April 2025.

This marks a threefold rise from the 10.2 tonnes it recorded in April 2023, underscoring Ghana’s strengthening its financial stability.

The Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) gold reserves now constitute approximately 41.2% of the country’s total international reserves.

This substantial growth positions Ghana as the fifth-largest holder of central bank gold reserves in Africa, trailing only Algeria, Libya, Egypt, and South Africa.

The Bank of Ghana’s gold reserves climbed to a total of 31.01 tonnes as of March 31, 2025.

This reflects a steady build-up strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s foreign reserves and monetary stability framework.

It also marks a notable increase from 30.81 tonnes recorded at the end of February 2025, and continues a sustained growth trend that has been observed over the past two years.

Starting from 8.78 tonnes in May 2023, the central bank’s gold holdings have more than tripled, underscoring a strategic pivot toward leveraging Ghana’s position as a major gold producer.

The domestic gold purchase programme is seen as playing a key role in build up with the Central Banking noting at the time of the launch of the programme that it will pave the way to grow its foreign exchange reserves to foster confidence, enhances currency stability, creates a more attractive environment for foreign direct investments and economic growth.

SP/MA

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The Select Committee on Environment, Science and Technology say it is upbeat about the huge socio-economic potential in the carbon market, calling on businesses to tap into its prospects.

The Committee said the country could earn millions of dollars in taxes, fees, direct investment into innovative smart technology, create jobs through development projects for local communities, enhance local air quality, and build resilience to climate change.

The leadership made the call at the end of a two-day training on the progress of Ghana carbon market initiative, organised by the Carbon Market Office (CMO) of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) for the committee members.

Yaw Frimpong Addo, the Chairperson of the Committee, urged local businesses to take interest and identify opportunities in the carbon market value chain and participate fully.

“I am still learning about revenue streams the value chain offers and how local business participation will boost the economy. We should not lose our guard like we did in the cocoa sector where the beans are exported and the country makes less revenue,” he said.

“It is sad to know that out of the 70 projects presented to the CMO seeking approval, only about seven are initiatives from Ghanaians with the majority being foreigners. I acknowledge the technicalities involved in the market but the CMO officials are at hand to provide all the explanations businesses will need.”

Addo, who is the Member of Parliament for Manso Adubia Constituency in the Ashanti Region, said the committee members would educate their fellow parliamentarians and constituents on the carbon market and the opportunities it presented to businesses.

The carbon market allows companies and countries to buy and sell carbon credits – permits that represent 1ton of greenhouse gas emissions reduced or removed or avoided from going into the atmosphere.

This system helps countries like Ghana to raise funds and enhance its climate ambition through mitigation activities while contributing to global emission reductions.

A recent report from the Office estimates that Ghana’s carbon market could attract more than one billion dollars in investment by 2030.

Professor Hamza Adam, the Ranking Member of the Committee, described the carbon market as an emerging economy that Ghana was well positioned to rake in revenue to contribute to the transformation of the economy.

He noted that the market was “pregnant” with projects including technology – based solutions such as clean cooking stoves, solar, and nature-based solutions.

“Our youth stand the chance of benefiting from capacity building to render services including conducting monitoring, reporting and verification services (MRV), which hither to would have been sublated to foreigners,” he said.

Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the EPA, stated that the carbon market was a huge opportunity to meet global climate obligations while building a resilient economy.

She said the CMO was committed to facilitating the scaling up of projects and increasing local participation in the growing carbon market ecosystem.

One of the key focus areas of the Office in 2025 was to assist local service providers in securing the necessary accreditation to operate within the carbon market space, she said.

She hinted that the Office was also taking deliberate steps to ensure that carbon projects were anchored in Ghana by promoting local manufacturing and assembling facilities.

As of December 2024, the CMO had received 70 project proposals focused on cutting emissions and promoting sustainable development.

Leading the pipeline of project is the clean-cooking initiative, which aims to distribute 9.1 million efficient stoves by 2030. It accounts for 26 of the proposals received so far.

Other proposals include three electric mobility projects, targeting the distribution of 120,160 electric bikes and vehicles.

Additionally, 15 projects centre on nature-based solutions, with others focusing on solar energy biochar, wastewater treatment, and electric vehicle initiatives.

Ghana has already signed bilateral agreements to trade carbon credits with Switzerland, Sweden, and Singapore.

It also has an agreement with South Korea, which is currently seeking Cabinet approval, while that of Liechtenstein is at the negotiation stage.

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Ghana’s sports industry is poised for transformative growth following the election of Evans Yeboah as Treasurer of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) and his subsequent selection to the World Board of the International Sports Institute (ISI).

A career spanning over two decades in sports finance and administration, Yeboah’s leadership signals a strategic shift toward transparency, sustainable funding, and global collaboration—key pillars of his campaign mantra: “Grants, Growth, and Glory.”

A Track Record of Financial Excellence

Yeboah’s credentials speak volumes:

• 20+ years in sports finance, including roles as GOC Vice President, GOC Finance Chair, and Vice-President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) and Treasurer of the National Paralympic Committee.
• Goldman Sachs-trained financial strategist with expertise in finance and investment management.
• 14-year tenure as Africa Badminton’s Governing Body, including Finance Chair, overseeing continental funding structures.

His election as GOC Treasurer ensures that Ghana’s sports federations will benefit from data-driven financial policies, ensuring fair and performance-based disbursement of Olympic Solidarity funds, government grants, and sponsorship revenues.

Grants: Maximizing Funding for Athletes and Federations

One of Yeboah’s key mandates is optimizing Ghana’s access to IOC and international sports grants, including:

• Olympic Scholarships for Athletes and National Federations (LA 2028) – Ensuring Ghanaian athletes secure training and qualification funds.
• Team Support Grants – Strategic allocation to high-potential sports like athletics, boxing, Badminton and Football.
• Youth Development Funds – Investing in grassroots talent for long-term success, including the upcoming Youth Olympic Games.

His role on the International Sports Institute’s World Board further strengthens Ghana’s ability to attract global sports investments, ensuring federations receive timely, transparent, and impactful funding.

Growth: Financial Sustainability for Ghana Sports

Yeboah’s vision extends beyond grants—his financial model prioritizes:
✔ Corporate Partnerships – Leveraging his Goldman Sachs background to attract sponsors.
✔ Digital Tracking of Funds – Implementing real-time grant disbursement dashboards.
✔ Anti-Corruption Safeguards – Ensuring every cedi reaches athletes and coaches.

His appointment to the ISI World Board means Ghana will now have a direct voice in international sports funding policies, influencing how grants are structured for developing nations.

Glory: Elevating Ghana’s Global Sports Standing

With better-managed funds, Ghana can expect:

• More athletes qualifying for the Olympics/World Championships.
• Stronger youth development pipelines.
• Enhanced reputation in international sports governance.

Yeboah’s dual role—GOC Treasurer and ISI World Board Member—positions Ghana as a leader in sports financial innovation, setting a benchmark for Africa.

Conclusion: A New Dawn for Ghana Sports

Evans Yeboah’s leadership marks a turning point—where financial accountability meets global sports strategy. His “Grants, Growth, and Glory” agenda ensures that Ghana’s sports industry will no longer struggle with funding shortfalls but thrive through smart investments, transparency, and world-class partnerships.

The future of Ghanaian sports is brighter than ever, and with Yeboah at the financial helm, the medals, the talent, and the global recognition will follow for the benefit of all national federations.

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.

April 27 is a historic day in the Netherlands; a momentous occasion when the people celebrate the birthday of their beloved King Willem-Alexander. It is a historic moment etched in tradition and unity, and packed with activities that embody the rich Dutch culture.

The King of Netherlands holds a symbolic role as head of state and the monarch of the Royal House; hence the annual celebration of his birthday has become a symbol of national unity.

“The Royal House stands for the unity of the Netherlands as a nation. So for us, the celebration of the birthday of our king is also a celebration of the unity of our country and the independence of our country since 1648,” Netherlands’ ambassador to Ghana, Jeroen Verheul, shared the significance of the day in an exclusive interview.

The King’s Day, also known as “Koningsdag” reflects a vibrant expression of Dutch national pride and unity; serving as the most significant public celebration across the country. It is more than a birthday celebration: a profound tribute to Dutch heritage, freedom, and communal spirit.

This year’s celebration will be marked on Saturday, April 26, 2025—when the king will visit Doetinchem, one of the cities in the Netherlands, and interact with the people to celebrate his birthday, a blissful occasion laced with sports, games and musical performances.

“In a number of places, in a number of cities, there are free markets, so people are allowed to put things up for sale without any permits or any difficulties. They put a blanket in front of their house and sell their goods or products, amid fanfare, games and musical activities,” Ambassador Verheul narrated how the day is marked across Dutch cities and streets.

In Ghana, he said the celebrations will kick-start with an official reception that will host government  officials, the diplomatic and business community at his residence on Thursday.

This will be followed by a gathering of the Dutch community, entrepreneurs and Ghanaian business partners. This celebration seeks to entrench the good relations between the embassy,  the Dutch community and their local business counterparts.

Ghana and the Netherlands share a rich and enduring bilateral relationship that spans over more than three centuries, rooted in trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange.

In Ghana, the King’s Day celebration is also an opportunity for cementing the enviable Ghana-Netherlands economic relations where investors and the business community are convened to explore partnerships and investment opportunities in both nations.

Trade has been a cornerstone of Ghana-Netherlands relations. Historically, Ghana exported commodities like gold, ivory, and cocoa, while importing Dutch textiles and firearms. In recent years, the Netherlands has become one of Ghana’s top trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching €2.2 billion in 2020. Ghana’s exports include cocoa, fruits, and vegetables, while Dutch exports to Ghana comprise machinery, chemicals, and electronics.

There are currently over 150 Dutch companies operating in Ghana, investing more than €2 billion across sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy, according to the Netherlands-African Business Council (NABC).

According to ambassador Verheul, the embassy will continue to facilitate investments to key areas of interest for Dutch investors looking to explore business opportunities in key areas of the Ghanaian economy, especially in the horticulture, cocoa and security sub-sectors.

Although direct development aid to Ghana has ceased, he reaffirmed the commitment of the Netherlands government to support the country’s growth aspirations, through targeted investment in the provision of small grants to advance innovative solutions in key sectors of the local economy.

He said: “The Netherlands phased out development cooperation for Ghana almost a decade ago. But we still have some specific budgets to support trade and investment, especially in horticulture, cocoa and security initiatives.”

“Going forward, big grants and economic support will be channeled through multilateral institutions like the World Bank, United Nations, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the European Union (EU)—but not on bilateral basis,” he added.

In all, we can say that the annual celebration of the King’s Day by the Netherlands Embassy in Ghana does not only sell the rich Dutch culture and heritage locally, but also provides an opportunity for the Dutch government to affirm its position as a reliable partner to Ghana’s development and growth aspirations.

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.

In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢14.54 and a selling price of GH¢14.55 to a dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢19.37 and sold at GH¢19.40, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢16.54 and a selling price of GH¢16.56.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on April 28, 2025, at 08:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢15.85 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢21.00 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢18.00 on the retail market.

To curb the cedi’s depreciation, the Bank of Ghana sold over $200 million in the last quarter of 2024.

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