President Donald Trump has pledged to carry out the largest deportation campaign in US history and curb immigration, mainly from Latin American nations.
The order affects around 532,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans who came to the United States under a scheme launched in October 2022 by Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden and expanded in January the following year.
They will lose their legal protection 30 days after the Department of Homeland Security’s order is published in the Federal Register, which is scheduled Tuesday.
That means immigrants sponsored by the program “must depart the United States” by April 24 unless they have secured another immigration status allowing them to remain in the country, the order says.
Welcome.US, which supports people seeking refuge in the United States, urged those affected by the move to “immediately” seek advice from an immigration lawyer.
The Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (CHNV) program, announced in January 2023, allowed entry to the United States for two years for up to 30,000 migrants per month from the four countries, which have grim human rights records.
Biden touted the plan as a “safe and humane” way to ease pressure on the crowded US-Mexico border.
But the Department of Homeland Security stressed Friday that the scheme was “temporary.”
“Parole is inherently temporary, and parole alone is not an underlying basis for obtaining any immigration status, nor does it constitute an admission to the United States,” it said in the order.
Nicolette Glazer, an immigration lawyer in California, said the order would affect the “vast majority” of the half a million immigrants who entered the United States under the CHNV scheme.
“Only 75,000 affirmative asylum applications were filed, so the vast majority of the CHNV parolees will find themselves without status, work permits, and subject to removal,” she posted on X.
“The chaos will be unreal”.
Trump last weekend invoked rare wartime legislation to fly more than 200 alleged members of a Venezuelan gang to El Salvador, which has offered to imprison migrants and even US citizens at a discount.
More than seven million Venezuelans have fled their country over the last decade as the oil-rich country’s economy implodes under leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, a bugbear of Washington who has faced major sanctions.
A lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, Prof. Festus Annor Frimpong, has urged heads of senior high schools to take full advantage of the government’s reset agenda, including the “Nkoko Nkitinkiti” project, to tackle feeding challenges in schools.
Speaking as the guest speaker at Swedru Secondary School’s 66th-anniversary celebration, Piesie Prof. Annor Frimpong questioned whether schools are adequately prepared to implement these initiatives.
He also encouraged senior high schools to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their curriculum while remaining mindful of its potential drawbacks.
“We need to take advantage of our government’s policies and be proactive. Ghana’s current focus is on resetting the senior high school agenda through infrastructure expansion, enhancing teachers’ welfare and professional development, and improving sector policy outcomes. The government also intends to reintroduce home and backyard gardens under the Nkoko Nkitinkiti policy. But how ready are we to embrace this opportunity?” he asked.
He further emphasized the importance of technology in education, warning that failure to embrace digital advancements could leave the country behind.
“We must continue to embrace technology. If we do not leverage technology, the world will leave us behind. However, we cannot ignore the ethical and professional considerations surrounding its use, especially in this era of artificial intelligence.
‘Yes, AI tools are beneficial, but we must be careful not to overlook the ethics and professional considerations of technology use,” he concluded.
The Energy Ministry has rescinded its earlier announcement regarding the appointment of John Ayiku Ocansey as the Acting Deputy Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
In a statement issued on Saturday, March 18, the Ministry clarified that its previous communication, dated March 17, 2025, which introduced Mr. Ocansey to the role, was sent in error and has now been revoked.
Lewis Hamilton has been disqualified from the Chinese Grand Prix for a technical infringement on his Ferrari.
One of the skid blocks on Hamilton’s car was found to be less than the required thickness after the race.
His team-mate Charles Leclerc and Alpine’s Pierre Gasly have also been disqualified, after their cars were both deemed underweight in post-race checks.
Hamilton loses his sixth-place finish in the main grand prix, following victory in the sprint race in Shanghai on Saturday, his first win for his new team.
Monegasque Leclerc was fifth, while Frenchman Gasly was 11th.
Formula 1 cars have skid blocks in the floor that are meant to ensure that the car maintains a certain ride height and does not run too low.
The skids are situated in the underfloor wooden plank, which also has a minimum depth for the same reason.
If one is worn too much, it confers a potential performance advantage caused by the car being able to run lower than would otherwise have been possible.
The skids are situated in the underfloor wooden plank, which also has a minimum depth for the same reason.
Hamilton was disqualified from the 2023 United States Grand Prix for a similar issue when he was driving for Mercedes.
Revised Chinese GP top 10
1. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
2. Lando Norris (McLaren)
3. George Russell (Mercedes)
4. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
5. Esteban Ocon (Haas)
6. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
7. Alex Albon (Williams)
8. Oliver Bearman (Haas)
9. Lance Stroll (Aston Martin)
10. Carlos Sainz (Williams)
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Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has committed to securing funding from the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to address teacher accommodation challenges at Swedru Secondary School.
Speaking as the guest of honour at the school’s 66th-anniversary celebration on Saturday, March 22, Dr. Forson acknowledged the pressing need for adequate housing for teachers and assured the headmistress that the issue would be prioritized.
“One of the challenges I observed here, and the headmistress also confirmed, is accommodation for teachers. Headmistress, I have heard your concern, I will talk to GETFund to complete the teacher accommodation,” he stated.
Beyond accommodation, Dr. Forson also pledged to improve healthcare facilities within the school by personally funding the refurbishment of the infirmary. He promised to equip it with beds and medical supplies to enhance student healthcare.
“Headmistress, the school’s infirmary—I will personally support its completion. I will also provide beds and other medical equipment,” he assured.
Encouraging students to prioritize their education, Dr. Forson emphasized the importance of academic excellence in shaping their future and contributing positively to society.
My talented team will fix Ghana’s economy – Mahama
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I Feel So Guilty, I Pray Late Actress Nkechi Nweje Forgives Me-Onyinye Okafor
News Hub Creator20h
Popular and talented nollywood actress, Onyinye Okafor has taken to her official Instagram handle to disclose how guilty she feels over the death of her colleague, actress Nkechi Nweje.
The actress made this known in a video she posted on her official Instagram handle few hours ago.
Actress Onyinye Okafor is one of the most talented and gorgeous actresses in the movie industry. Her uniqueness and creativity has earned her wide recognition.
In her post few hours ago, Onyinye Okafor disclosed how guilty she feels over the death of actress Nkechi Nweje.
According to Onyinye Okafor, the late actress before her death had helped and supported her in so many ways, and also encouraged her not to quit when things were so difficult for her, yet when Nkechi Nweje felt sick she didn’t call to check up on her or find out how she was coping not untill she heard the news of her death which really broke her heart.
She disclosed she has never felt that guilty before and prayed that the late actress forgive her for not being there for her when she needed her the most.
Former Reuter’s staff member and Zimbabwean national, Cris Chinaka, has emphasised the importance of training African journalists to effectively address the issue of illicit financial flows (IFFs).
In a recent initiative, Mr. Chinaka travelled to Ghana, where he led a workshop aimed at equipping Ghanaian journalists with the necessary skills to report on financial crimes and promote greater accountability across the continent.
“I think it is important for us, African journalists to focus on this very important subject of illicit financial flows because Africa is a continent that is losing billions of dollars every year due to illicit financial flows in our economy therefore it is important that journalists acquire the skills, the knowledge and the motivation to cover this area” he told journalists after a five-day training on IFFs held in Greater Accra region.
The training, which saw ten journalists from various media outlets participate, was organised under the auspices of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and supported by the Thomson Reuters Foundation.
This programme forms part of a wider effort to combat the illegal transfer of funds out of Ghana and Africa at large, a challenge that deprives the continent of crucial financial resources needed for its development.
“The money that Africa is losing to illicit financial flows is critical to Africa’s development, it is critical for tackling some of the woes that we have as a continent, the woes of development of our schools, the health services on the continent, it is important for the development for farming, agriculture, and food production, it is important for job creation,” he said.
During the workshop, Mr. Chinaka, who has vast experience in investigative journalism, shared his expertise on how to identify and report on illicit financial flows, a growing issue that has far-reaching consequences for African economies, and narrowed it to the Ghanaian context with expectations from the journalist to be able to identify and report on the menace.
He also discussed the crucial role of the media in holding powerful actors accountable and the need for journalists to have access to accurate financial data and the tools to uncover corruption and money laundering.
The workshop provided journalists with valuable skills, including how to track the movement of illicit funds, the legal frameworks around financial crimes, and the importance of investigative techniques in uncovering hidden financial flows.
The goal is to enhance their ability to report on these complex issues, ultimately contributing to the broader effort to reduce corruption and increase financial transparency within the region.
This initiative comes at a time when Africa continues to grapple with the adverse effects of illicit financial flows, which deprive governments of vital resources for public services and development.
In 2020, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s Economic Development in Africa Report estimated that $88.6 billion, equivalent to 3.7% of Africa’s GDP, leaves the continent as illicit capital flight.
According to the report, Africa could gain $89 billion annually by curbing illicit financial flows.
By empowering journalists with the knowledge and tools to combat this financial crime, Mr. Chinaka, MFWA, and Thomson Reuters Foundation are helping pave the way for a more informed and accountable media landscape across the continent, especially in West Africa.
The training has been organised in Kenya and Tanzania, with a total of 30 journalists trained across the three countries.
The Media Foundation for West Africa remains committed to supporting journalists in their efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance, with programmes like this training workshop playing a pivotal role in advancing the cause.
Before the training, MFWA and Thomson Reuters Foundation supported Ghana’s giant private media organisation, The Multimedia Group with equipment to help tackle IFFs.
Read also: MFWA trains JoyNews journalists on Illicit Financial Flows, donates equipment in collaboration with Thomson Reuters Foundation
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The 40th birthday celebration of popular business mogul and serial investor Richard Nii-Armah Quaye has been the talk of social media, thanks to its star-studded guest list and eye-catching fashion.
Held at the Independence Square in Accra on March 22, 2025, the event attracted hundreds of guests, including actors, musicians, influencers, and prominent businessmen, making it one of the most talked-about parties of the year so far.
One of the standout features of the event was the daring outfits worn by some attendees.
As expected at such a high-profile gathering, many female guests arrived ‘dressed to kill.’ From low-cut dresses displaying ample cleavage to high-slit designs revealing legs and tight-fitting outfits accentuating curves, the fashion choices sparked conversations both at the event and online.
While some Netizens praised the bold styles, others criticised the revealing outfits.
Many were quick to comment on the trend, with some suggesting that such outfits are often aimed at grabbing the attention of some ‘big men’ or stealing the spotlight at elite gatherings.
Aside from the sultry outfits, the celebration was marked by live performances from top Ghanaian and Nigerian artistes including Sarkodie, Davido, King Promise, Stonebwoy and Efya, who kept the crowd entertained.
With its mix of bold fashion, influential guests, glitz and glamour, Richard Nii-Armah Quaye’s 40th birthday bash has set a new standard for the biggest birthday event of the year, if not the decade.
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The Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, has heavily descended on legal practitioner Martin Kpebu over his comments attacking Richard Jakpa regarding the search conducted at the residence of former Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Ernest Addison by the National Security.
Martin Kpebu criticised the approach taken by the Richard Jakpa-led National Security in their operations at the residences of former government officials.
Addressing the recent operation at the house of Dr. Ernest Addison, former Bank of Ghana Governor, on TV3, Kpebu stated that Jakpa should be the last person to execute a warrant and subject individuals to unlawful raids.
He explained that Jakpa, who was once a victim of injustice during the ambulance case trial and had people like him, Kpebu, fighting for fairness, should not subject others to the same treatment.
In response to Kpebu’s comments, Edudzi Tameklo on TV3, chastised him for attempting to undermine the work of Jakpa, based on claims made by Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin, which he described as unsubstantiated.
According to him, the operation on the former government appointee was legally authorised by the office of the Attorney General as part of their investigations.
He further stated that Kpebu was neither present nor privy to crucial information and, therefore, should not have made such statements.
“I asked myself, Martin, were you there? The resolution of that issue resolves the matter. You are speaking of an account by Afenyo-Markin without more. How is that fair in the conversation on fairness and reasonableness? In a conversation founded on fairness and reasonableness, you premise your conversation and your submission on hearsay? You were not there and now you say this about Richard Jakpa? That is framing prejudice,” he said.
Edudzi Tamekloe, also a legal practitioner, maintained that Kpebu’s position on the matter would have been valid if Jakpa, during the search of Dr Addison’s house, failed to present a warrant for the search.
He further emphasised that Jakpa acted properly in the discharge of his duties, contrary to Kpebu’s assertion that Jakpa should have conducted himself in a more professional manner.
“He comes by saying, ‘oh, Jakpa, we kind of supported you in the past and so you must conduct yourself in a particular way’. How did he conduct himself? It would have been a different proposition if in going into the house of Governor Addison, one, it was done without a warrant, and two, he was not shown the benefit of the warrant and what he says. As we speak, the Deputy Attorney General has confirmed that when the National Security entered the house of Dr Addison, they did that under a lawful warrant,” he indicated.
Edudzi Tameklo faulted Kpebu for making his claims based on a report provided by Afenyo-Markin, pointing out that Afenyo-Markin had not been appointed as a spokesperson for the former BoG boss.
He added that this approach did not reflect fairness toward Jakpa.
“Do you know the details of the warrant and what is in it? Has Dr Addison spoken? No, he was there. He has not spoken. He has not also said his lawful representative or lawyer or spokesperson is Afenyo-Markin but you have premised your conversation on the conduct or otherwise of Richard Jakpa on the basis of Afenyo-Markin’s claims. In the conversation bordering on fairness and reasonableness, would you pass the test?.”
Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, a Presidential Staffer leading Agriculture
Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, a presidential staffer leading Agriculture and Agri-business initiatives, has been engaging key sector players, agro-investors, and strategic partners in discussions to accelerate Ghana’s agricultural transformation.
Speaking on behalf of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Dr Otokunor highlighted the need for stronger partnerships to develop the agro-value chain, enhance food security, and position Ghana as an export-oriented, agro-industrialized economy.
“These engagements are crucial in driving a sustainable and inclusive agricultural sector that creates jobs, ensures food self-sufficiency, and strengthens our position in the global market,” he stated.
The discussions focused on investment opportunities, modernized farming techniques, and value-addition strategies to improve productivity and competitiveness within the sector.
The initiative aligns with President Mahama’s broader vision of leveraging agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and industrialization in Ghana.
Stakeholders have expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of these engagements, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in transforming the agricultural landscape.
More details on specific partnerships and projects are expected to be unveiled in the coming months.
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Djiku (L), Jordan (M) and Partey (R) are players of the Black Stars
The Black Stars will face Madagascar on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Mimoun Al Arsi Stadium in Morocco as they fight for an automatic qualification spot for the 2026 World Cup.
With Madagascar sitting second in the standings, this match will undoubtedly determine who ends the international window on a high.
However, with the team eager to maintain momentum and rally their supporters, the spotlight falls on key individuals who could make a difference.
Alexander Djiku
The defender was calm and composed as he marshalled the Black Stars’ defence to keep a clean sheet against Chad. Against Madagascar, his experience will be needed to neutralize a team that boasts the second-highest goal tally in the group.
Though he has battled injuries this season, Djiku has consistently shown his qualities whenever he is on the pitch. In the last five games since his return from injury, the 30-year-old has helped his team keep three clean sheets.
Thomas Partey
The Arsenal midfielder marked his 50th cap with the Black Stars with an outstanding display against Chad. Partey relentlessly chased down every ball throughout the night, and his energy will be a key factor for the Black Stars.
Against a team that has conceded just three goals in five games, Partey’s line-breaking passes and through balls will be crucial to opening up Madagascar’s defense, as they are likely to sit deep and absorb pressure.
Jordan Ayew
Captain on the night against Chad, he showed leadership, scoring and brilliantly assisting Ernest Nuamah for Ghana’s fifth. His reputation for stepping up in big games would prove crucial for the Black Stars.
Aside his attacking prowess, Ayew’s determination to help in defence would help Otto Addo’s men when they have to put their bodies on the line during some moments in the game.
Meanwhile, watch as over joyous Ghanaians praise Otto Addo after Black Stars beat Chad 5-0
The much-anticipated birthday celebration of Richard Nii-Armah Quaye, CEO of Quick Angels Limited, has finally come to an end, leaving guests in awe of its grandeur.
Held at the Independence Square, which was transformed into a luxurious event center, the celebration marked his 40th birthday with the hashtag #RNAQ40. Prior to the event, Mr. Quaye made headlines with his extravagant purchases, including a $4 million Bugatti Chiron and a customized private jet, setting the tone for a night of opulence.
The star-studded affair attracted dignitaries, celebrities, and prominent figures from various industries. Among the distinguished guests were Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, Dr. Ofori Sarpong, and members of the East Legon Fitness Club, etc. Notable Nollywood stars such as RMD, Ramsey Noah, Rita Dominic, and Ini Edo also graced the occasion with their presence.
The event was further elevated by electrifying performances from top music acts, including Diamond Platnumz, Sarkodie, King Promise, Stonebwoy, Efya and Davido, who thrilled the audience with their captivating sets.
The celebration brought together a diverse mix of personalities, from media figures and movie stars to business moguls, creating an unforgettable night filled with glitz and glamour. As one of the most talked-about events of the year, #RNAQ40 truly lived up to expectations, showcasing a blend of luxury and star power that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
The Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari II, has called on President John Mahama to prioritise development in the Northern Region while ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
Speaking during President Mahama’s thank-you tour on Saturday, 22 March, Yaa Naa commended him on his electoral victory and urged him to remain committed to good governance.
Welcoming the President to his palace, Yaa Naa expressed appreciation for the appointment of individuals from the region to key government positions, pledging his support to ensure they serve diligently.
However, he stressed the need for an administration free from corruption and arrogance, cautioning against any misconduct among government officials.
Development priorities for the Northern Region
The Dagbon ruler highlighted key challenges facing the region, including inadequate access to potable water, poor healthcare infrastructure, and the need for agricultural reforms. He emphasised the importance of completing the Yendi and Tamale water projects to address persistent water shortages.
On agriculture, he urged the government to rehabilitate irrigation dams such as the Bontanga Dam and invest in new projects to support farming communities struggling with erratic rainfall patterns.
Touching on healthcare, Yaa Naa Abukari II lamented the poor state of medical facilities and the absence of modern diagnostic equipment at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, calling for immediate interventions to improve healthcare delivery.
He also appealed for the swift completion of the third phase of the Tamale International Airport and proposed renaming it “Gbewaa International Airport” to honour the cultural heritage of the region.
Education and economic development
In the area of education, he urged the government to complete the ongoing e-block school projects to expand access to secondary education.
Additionally, he called for the revival of the Sheini iron ore project, noting that its successful implementation would create much-needed employment for the youth.
He also proposed the establishment of a regulatory body for the shea butter industry to boost production and enhance its competitiveness on the global market.
Call for responsible leadership
Yaa Naa Abukari II commended President Mahama for his swift policy actions and expressed optimism that his administration would address the concerns of the Northern Region.
He wished him wisdom and divine guidance in his leadership, urging him to work towards improving the lives of all Ghanaians.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has responded to the remarks made by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, during his visit to the site of the devastating fire outbreak at Adum in Kumasi on Friday, March 21, 2025.
The fire, which broke out in a commercial building near the Adum Central Market, caused significant damage to shops and properties worth thousands of Ghana cedis.
Several traders were left counting their losses as firefighters worked to contain the blaze.
During his visit to the scene, Dr. Amoakohene expressed frustration upon noticing what he believed to be an empty fire tender parked at the site.
He questioned the firefighters on duty, demanding to know why the vehicle was present if it lacked water.
“If there is no water in the tender, what is it doing here? If you have any challenge, why don’t you tell me immediately?” the minister angrily asked.
In response to the minister’s remarks, Alex King Nartey, Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, defended the service’s efforts, stating that the challenges faced by firefighters cannot be resolved by mere outbursts.
“Action is not by shouting or creating a public spectacle. This is a minister who is well aware of our challenges as a service. Even as of March 6, when our officers engaged him during a cleaning exercise, he assured them he would help fix our fire tender at our Metro Station. That promise is yet to be fulfilled,” King Nartey said in an interview with GHOne TV.
He further emphasised that the ability to fight fires depends on adequate resources, not just verbal reprimands.
“We didn’t have this kind of scene at Kantamanto yet we were able to extinguish the fire. Shouting does not fight fires or extinguish fires,” he added.
Investigations into the cause of the fire are still ongoing.
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A U.S. court has rejected an application for a mistrial filed by Kennedy Agyapong’s legal team after the jury delivered its verdict in the defamation lawsuit initiated by investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
According to Evans Selasi Adika, a lawyer representing Anas, Agyapong’s attorneys have made two post-verdict applications—one for remittitur and another for a mistrial—both of which have been denied.
But for yam and plantain, prices of other foodstuffs remained stable in the Ho market according to a survey conducted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
A woman who gave her name only as Auntie Yaa told the GNA that the prices of foodstuffs in the market today were the same as it was on the last market day.
Vegetables are now in abundance in the market which a market woman said was due to the unexpected rains, which started in early February, this year.
The survey showed that a quarter paint gallon of tomatoes is being sold between GH¢50.00 and GH¢70.00 depending on the sizes.
Onions of the same measurement were being sold at GH¢60.00, dried pepper, GH¢95.00, kpakpo shito goes for GH¢140.00, okro at GH¢70.00 and garden eggs GH¢80.00.
Madam Peace Adzimahe, a vegetable seller noted that she was optimistic that the cost of vegetables would come down in the coming days because of the rains.
Four big tubers of cassava were sold at GH¢20.00, four small tubers were sold at GH¢10.00.
A bottle of palm oil was being sold at GH¢20.00 and a gallon cost GH¢130.00, a Kuffour gallon of cooking oil was being sold between GH¢700.00 and GH¢750.00 depending on the brand.
An ‘olonka’ of gari was GH¢20.00, whilst an olonka of beans was GH¢40.00.
A 50 kilogramme bag of rice goes for between GH¢700.00 and GH¢1100.00 also depending on the brand, for example, a 50Kg bag of Millicent was being sold for GH¢1000.00, whilst a 50kg bag of sugar was GH¢750.00.
Three big sizes of tilapia were sold at GH¢200.00, three medium sizes cost GH¢100.00 and four small sizes cost GH¢50.00.
Plantain was scarce as five small fingers of apem were being sold at GH¢40.00, while a bunch cost between GH¢150.00 and GH¢250.00.
A tuber of yam was sold at between GH¢40.00 and GH¢70.00 depending on the size.
Madam Martha Damesi, a yam seller told the GNA that the cost of yam kept increasing by the day in the market because the price at the farm gate was also increasing.
She said for example 100 small tubers of yam were being sold to them at GH¢1,200 at the farm gate.
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Dr. Shafic Suleman, the Executive Secretary of the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC), has urged industrialists to take advantage of the excess electricity available at the Tumu substation to establish industries in the area.
He said this during a working visit to the Upper West Region and later to the Ghana Grid Company Limited (Gridco) substation at Tumu to familiarise himself with the operations in the area.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Tumu, Dr. Suleman said, “I spent some time at the Tumu Gridco Substation to understand the long-distance electricity transmission network in Ghana and its connectivity to Burkina- Faso through Leo.”
He encouraged investors and the business community to consider setting up factories in the Sissala enclave to leverage the excess power supply capacity available to the area.
Dr. Suleman noted that Tumu was fortunate to have access to this substantial electricity supply without significant consumption demands.
“I hope that investors will seize this opportunity to build additional factories in the area”, he said.
He assured the public that once the reclosers were replaced and the two transformers interconnected, there would be a more stable supply of electricity in Tumu and surrounding communities, which should encourage small-scale industries to benefit from it.
During the visit to Gridco in Tumu, Mr Stephen Babiniaching Bawisi, the operator on duty, indicated that the Tumu Gridco Station could deliver over 60 Megawatt (MW) of power to Tumu township and surrounding communities.
However, only 5 MW was consumed daily across the entire area, including Tumu, Gwollu, Funsi, and Leo in Burkina Faso.
Occasionally, KEDAN Ltd, a maize processing factory, consumed an additional 1 MW, bringing the total consumption to 6MW.
When it was operational, the Ghana Cotton Company in Tumu alone consumed up to 5 MW.
Mr Bawisi explained that the Tumu-Wellembelle-Nabulo transmission line reclosers were faulty, which resulted in power outages that affected the Tumu township.
“Fortunately, the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has assured us that they will take on the responsibility, and plans are underway to replace the reclosers as soon as possible to bring stability to the power supply in the Wellembelle, Nabulo and Tumu township areas”, he explained.
He also revealed that the substation houses two 30 MW transformers (60 MW combined), which needed to be interconnected.
This interconnection he said would ensure continuous power supply when one transformer was down for maintenance.
He said despite the excess power in the area, the Ghana News Agency can confirm that over 30 communities in Sissala East, Sissala West, and Wa East are without electricity.
Kwesi Pratt Jr, the Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper
Kwesi Pratt Jr, the Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, has waded into the ongoing discourse on the case of murdered investigative journalist Ahmed Suale.
Sharing his thoughts on the case, on Pan African TV on March 22, 2025, the veteran journalist questioned the treatment of the case by the investigating authorities and the court.
He questioned why the court would refer to a faceless high-profile politician but refuse to mention the person’s name.
“We are told that somehow, there’s a leading popular politician whose name has come up in the investigation and we’re not told who this person is. This high-profile politician is being protected. The name is not even being made available to the public. His image is being protected. Are these the investigating authorities we’re talking about? Are these the courts we’re talking about? Very interesting developments,” he said.
On another score, he slammed the investigating authorities and the court for granting the suspect bail stating that the suspect’s earlier actions suggest that he could abscond again.
“Media reports of the case claimed that the suspect in Ahmed Suale’s murder case disguised himself, ran out of the country and came back clandestinely. He was arrested in a hair salon, was taken to court and has been granted bail. What an amazing story? Do you get what I’m driving at?” he quizzed.
In his estimation, the fact that there is ample evidence that the suspect fled justice and was later apprehended was enough grounds to deny him bail.
“I am not a lawyer. I’m just a layman, but if there’s evidence that somebody has been arrested for such a high-profile crime and he actually disguised himself and ran out of the country and sneaked back into the country, there is a high probability of that person jumping bail. You don’t have to be a lawyer to understand this, but the courts have granted him bail,” he lamented.
Global Affairs Canada has pledged CA$20 million to empower women traders in Ghana and five other West African countries through the Making Trade Work for Women in West Africa project.
The Making Trade Work for Women in West Africa project would be implemented in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.
Launched in collaboration with CECI and TradeMark Africa, the five-year initiative aims to support 80,000 traders, 70 per cent of whom are women, by improving their access to markets, financial services, and sustainable trade practices.
The project also seeks to address gender-based barriers at border crossings, which have long hindered women’s participation in regional trade.
Speaking at the launch, the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, emphasized that the initiative aligned with Canada’s feminist foreign policy.
“To us, it wasn’t a no-brainer to collaborate with CECI and with TradeMark Africa to ensure the project comes to fruition.
As was mentioned today, Canada is providing CA$20 million so that we can support women traders and ensure that they can prosper. When women thrive, communities thrive, the country thrives, and the whole society and families thrive,” she said.
Madam Montrat explained that while the fund’s disbursement would be managed by CECI and TradeMark Africa, Global Affairs Canada would ensure the money was used effectively to benefit women traders.
A World Bank report highlighted the many obstacles women traders face, including limited access to markets and financial services, harassment at border crossings, and systemic gender-based barriers.
A study along key trade corridors—Tema-Ouagadougou and Abidjan-Lagos—revealed that women comprise 30 to 61 percent of traders, with many reporting negative experiences linked to border and market infrastructure.
“These issues are exacerbated by women’s additional burdens of productive and reproductive roles,” the report noted.
The Making Trade Work for Women in West Africa project includes initiatives such as capacity building where women traders would be trained in financial literacy, business skills, and market access strategies as well as introducing digital tools to enhance trade efficiency.
The project would again champion gender-responsive policies that promote fair trade conditions for women and strengthen the capacity of border officials to protect women traders from harassment and gender-based violence.
Again the initiative would empower the associations and networks of women traders to advocate for their rights in policy-making spaces.
The project aims to increase the number of women traders using sustainable trade practices by 50 per cent and enhance their income levels by 40 per cent. It will also promote knowledge sharing on trade, environmental sustainability, and climate change across Africa and Canada.
Organizers stressed that collaboration among civil society organizations, women’s groups, government ministries, and regional bodies would be key to ensuring a fair and inclusive trading environment.
“This initiative is not just about trade; it is about transforming lives and building stronger economies by investing in the backbone of West Africa’s markets: women traders,” said a representative from CECI.
With this investment, Canada reaffirms its commitment to fostering economic growth and gender equality in the region, offering women traders the opportunity to thrive in a more inclusive and sustainable trade environment.
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The Sudan Football Association has lodged an official complaint with FIFA against Senegal for fielding Assane Diao in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
The dispute centers on FIFA’s eligibility rules regarding nationality switches, specifically the three-year waiting period required for players who have previously represented another country in official competitions.
Diao, who came on as a substitute in the 79th minute to replace Ismaila Sarr in the match that ended in a 0-0 draw, has previously featured for Spain’s U-21 team. He played in four matches, including a friendly on October 13, 2023, and three UEFA U-21 European Championship qualifiers on October 17, November 17, and November 21, 2023.
FIFA regulations state that a player who has represented a nation at youth level in official competitions must meet specific conditions to switch allegiance. Sudan is arguing that Diao does not yet meet these criteria and should have been ineligible for selection by Senegal.
The complaint is now in FIFA’s hands, and the global football governing body is expected to review the matter before making a decision.
Accra, March 23, GNA – Mr Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, the Minister of the Interior, has called for strengthening of Ghana’s anti-money laundering laws to prevent illicit financial transactions.
The Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020 (Act 1044) is a collection of regulations and laws that set stringent compliance requirements for banks, insurance companies and other financial institutions to detect, report and prevent illicit transactions.
At a meeting with the Inter Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) and the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) on Friday, Mr Muntaka called for collaboration between the stakeholders to achieve the desired outcomes.
He emphasised the Government’s commitment to supporting GIABA’s work in maintaining a safe and secure financial environment.
Mr Edwin Harris, the Director-General of GIABA, who led the delegation, acknowledged Ghana’s active participation in the operations of the group and encouraged continued collaboration.
He said Ghana had made significant progress in strengthening its anti-money laundering laws, with the passage of the Anti-Money Laundering Act 2020 (Act 1044) to ensure transparency in financial transactions.
Present at the meeting were Mr Okletey Teilarbi, the Deputy Interior Minister, Mrs Doreen Annan, the Acting Chief Director of the Ministry, and Mr Albert Kwadwo Twum Boafo, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of FIC, among other officials.
The Eastern Regional House of Chiefs has called for the active involvement of traditional leaders in the planning and implementation of policies aimed at addressing illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in Ghana.
According to the chiefs, as custodians of lands with oversight responsibility, their participation is crucial for the success of the government’s efforts to curb illegal mining. They believe that empowering chiefs to lead the fight within their traditional jurisdictions will yield better results than sidelining them.
Since assuming office, Eastern Regional Minister Madam Rita Akosua Awatey has been confronted with the devastating impact of galamsey in the region. In response, she has been engaging various stakeholders, including small- and medium-scale mining companies.
Following extensive consultations, the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has formed an illegal mining task force to clamp down on both licensed and illegal miners polluting water bodies and encroaching on forest reserves.
As part of efforts to ensure broad collaboration, Madam Awatey met with the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs at the residency to discuss how the government and traditional authorities can work together to effectively combat galamsey.
“I am here to inform you about the formation of the illegal mining task force. We all know the devastating effects of illegal mining our environment is being destroyed, our water bodies are polluted, and our communities are at risk. It is our collective responsibility to address this issue. It is not right to enter a community without informing the chiefs about such an initiative. On air, I said I would collaborate with stakeholders involved in managing the Eastern Region, and this meeting is one of the steps I have taken,” she stated.
The Paramount Chief of Akyem Kotoku, Oseadeeyo Dr Frempong Manso, emphasized that meaningful progress in the fight against galamsey can only be achieved if chiefs are involved in the process of granting mining concessions.
He argued that forming a task force without input from traditional leaders would be ineffective.
“Without our involvement, I do not know whether what we want will be accomplished. My contribution to the task force is whether the task force will be well-equipped to do its job. This exercise is so important that if we name the people who will be undertaking this task and they are not well-equipped, then we will be wasting resources and time.” he said.
This sentiment was echoed by other prominent chiefs, including Akwamuhene Odeneho Kwafo Akoto, Okuapemhene Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo, Paramount Chief of Bosogua Nana Osei Nyarko, and Paramount Chief of Yilo Krobo Oklepeme Nuer Anorbaa Sasraku.
The President of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, Nene Sakite II, stressed that chiefs must be consulted on national issues such as illegal mining to provide their expertise, urging that their concerns be channelled to the President for consideration.
Commending the Regional Minister for taking on the challenging task, Nene Sakite II also advised that the newly formed task force be adequately resourced to ensure it effectively carries out its mandate.
President John Dramani Mahama on Saturday assured the Ya-Na Abukari II, Overlord of Dagbon of his government’s determination to address the issue of lack of water in Yendi and its environs with urgency.
President Mahama also promised to fix Tamale water crisis by the end of his four-year term adding similar efforts would be made to fix water crisis in other communities in the Northern Region through sustainable water projects.
President Mahama gave the assurance when he paid a courtesy call on the Ya-Na at the Gbewaa Palace at Yendi as part of his “Thank You Tour” following his victory in the Presidential elections in December.
Loud cheers from residents welcomed the President as he arrived at the Gbewaa Palace to scores of people who had thronged the palace to catch glimpse of him.
President Mahama gave assurance of his government’s commitment to implementing initiatives that would provide employment and skills development opportunities for the youth.
He outlined plans for infrastructure development for the region to include an improvement in electricity supply, complete construction of the Eastern Corridor Road to link the Northern Region through Yendi to Accra to enhance transportation, boost trade, and improve economic activities between northern and southern Ghana.
He said his government would invest in afforestation projects to combat deforestation and promote environmental sustainability in the region.
President Mahama expressed gratitude to the Ya-Na and the people of Yendi for their support throughout his campaign and appealed for continued support from the people of Dagbon for his administration.
Ya-Na Abukari II, Overlord of Dagbon Traditional Area, who spoke through an Elder, touched on the lack of potable water at Yendi and its surrounding communities and the negative impact it possed on the lives of the people.
He called on the President to fix the water crisis in the area and urged him to focus on development and creation of jobs to engage the unemployed youth.
Security Analyst Col. Festus Aboagye (rtd) has slammed the Leader of the Minority caucus in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin over comments he made about some officers of the National Security following the search at the residence of former Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison.
Speaking on TV3 on Saturday, March 22, 2025, Col. Aboagye (rtd) tackled claims by Afenyo-Markin that monies and jewellery were taken from Dr. Addison’s residence during the search.
He wondered why Dr. Addison himself has not spoken on the incident nor reported the matter to the police.
“Why is Dr. Addison not coming out to tell us what happened? Why has he not gone to the police to report the loss of his cash and property and so on? Why is the honourable Minority Leader assuming the role of a counsel to Dr. Addison?” Col. Aboagye (rtd) questioned.
He further pressed Afenyo-Markin over some descriptions he used on the National Security personnel. Asking if Dr. Addison had indeed used such words in his private discussion with Afenyo-Markin.
“You see clearly that he’s using a lot of pejorative words. For instance, he says that the men were ‘hungry.’ Is that what Dr. Addison told him? That those who came there were hungry and they were looking for food?
“Obviously, if Dr. Addison told him anything, I don’t think Dr. Addison described them as angry, not being paid and looking for opportunities to steal,” he said.
Col Festus Aboagye (rtd) wondered if Afenyo-Markin’s commentary was a deliberate attack on the head of Special Operations at the National Security Office, Richard Jakpa, asking, “Why is the honourable Minority Leader using these prerogative words to frame Richard Jakpa in a certain way?”
Background
Afenyo-Markin had accused Richard Jakpa of leading controversial searches at the residences of former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison and ex-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
Speaking at a press conference on March 20, Afenyo-Markin alleged that during the March 19 search of Addison’s home, security operatives disabled CCTV systems and stole items, including GH₵10,000 and jewellery belonging to Addison’s wife.
He urged civil society and human rights advocates to oppose what he described as political persecution and a threat to Ghana’s democracy.
ID/EK
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L-R:Nii-Armah Quaye, Kwame Despite, Nana Kwame Bediako and Joseph Siaw Agyepong
Stories of humble beginnings and rags-to-riches journeys are often shared to motivate and inspire many, especially young people who aspire to make a significant impact and succeed in their lives and careers.
These stories are abundant and serve as inspirational and motivational tales, instilling the belief that, with time and the right attitude, everyone can achieve similar success.
But what happens when these kinds of stories raise eyebrows—not because they didn’t happen, but because of how they are told, making them hard to believe?.
GhanaWeb brings you five of such stories.
Wash 5,000 plates daily – Nii-Armah Quaye
From being relatively unknown to dominating the media space in recent weeks, Richard Nii-Armah Quaye has emerged as the latest ‘rags to riches’ sensation in Ghana.
The Founder of Bills Microcredit, in an interview with Bola Ray on GhOne TV, revealed that in his early years, he worked as a kitchen porter, washing up to 5,000 plates daily to meet job requirements.
“I was a kitchen porter, I washed as many as 5,000 dishes a day,” he recounted.
Through diligence and perseverance, Nii-Armah has now achieved remarkable success, acquiring luxury assets such as a Bugatti Chiron Sport and a private jet.
He disclosed that these assets are primarily used by himself and his mother, who has been a guiding force in his life, offering him advice and support.
“Now I have a private jet, which is for myself and my mother. My mother has been very supportive. I left the market early, but now I’m back on the market because I’m divorced. I also own a Bugatti Chiron Sport, which costs about four million dollars,” he stated.
I set up my company with GH¢3 – Jospong
In the waste management industry and allied areas, the Jospong Group reigns supreme. Jospong is also in the media industry with its ownership of Metro TV and Original FM and TV.
The success of Jospong would not have been possible without a GH¢3 initial investment by the owner, Joseph Siaw Agyepong.
He is quoted by Joy FM as saying that a GH¢3 loan handed to him by his mother funded the establishment of Jospong Printing Press, which became the foundation for the Jospong conglomerate.
I sold scraps – Nana Kwame Bediako
Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar or Freedom Jacob Caesar (don’t be confused—these are all names of one person), is represented in the media as a real estate mogul and a politician.
Media reports indicate that Cheddar, or whichever of the three names you prefer, owns some of the most patronized and luxurious buildings in the country.
From Number 1 Oxford Street to the Kwarleyz Estates, Cheddar has built a niche as a real estate magnate in Ghana.
But his story started with the dismantling of his car and selling it as scrap to dealers in the United Kingdom.
“By age 21, he had made a million pounds for himself, selling scrap, steel, and telecommunications material while in school at Waltham Forest College,” Joy FM’s Twitter quoted him.
Selling cassettes – Despite
Osei Kwame Despite is hailed and celebrated as an entrepreneur and job creator who has provided job opportunities for thousands of people.
From media to finance to the beverage industry, he has an interest in key sectors of the Ghanaian economy.
It is no secret, however, that Despite’s wealth began with selling records at Kantamanto.
From there, he built a music distribution empire that catapulted him into the success he enjoys today.
St Philip Enterprise – GH¢2.50ps
In the phone and accessories business, St Philip Enterprise is high on the list of Ghana’s most popular companies.
With constant media advertisement, St Philip has positioned itself as a go-to destination for phones and accessories.
According to the CEO, Philip Danquah, the entire St Philip Enterprise was made possible by a GH¢2.50ps investment.
“I sold my coal pot for GH₵3 and came to Accra. The whole St Philip Enterprise started with GH¢2.50 pesewas,” he told Adom FM.
Marriage is a beautiful journey, but for working couples, the delicate balance of professional and personal life can often challenge the bond. In today’s dynamic and fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel disconnected when work demands to consume both energy and time. Yet, some couples have found ways to sail through these struggles, learning important lessons that not only saved their relationships but also strengthened them.
Ghana’s Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has described the inauguration of Namibia’s first female president, H.E. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, as a powerful reflection of the resilience and determination of African women.
In a message shared on her official Facebook page on Saturday, March 22 2025, Prof Opoku-Agyemang said she was honoured to witness what she called a historic moment for the continent.
“Her leadership is a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of African women,” she wrote. “May she continue to inspire men and women across the continent and prove that with courage and commitment, no dream is beyond reach.”
Prof Opoku-Agyemang was in Namibia as part of Ghana’s delegation to the swearing-in ceremony of President Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The event, held on March 21 2025, also marked Namibia’s 35th Independence Day.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, a long-standing member of Namibia’s ruling SWAPO party, assumes office following decades of public service.
Her inauguration was attended by several African leaders, international dignitaries, and representatives of regional institutions.
In her first address as president, she touched on issues of governance, regional cooperation, economic diversification, youth unemployment, and climate change.
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Since President John Dramani Mahama took over, several cases of lawlessness and, in some cases, violence have been recorded in parts of the country.
These incidents have escalated since the general elections on December 7, 2024, with many of those wreaking havoc across the country linked to the NDC party.
Despite these happenings, authorities have yet to issue a statement condemning these troubling events or act decisively to put an end to them. This appears to have further emboldened those responsible.
But who is truly in charge? Does the responsibility lie with the president, considering that he told then-President Akufo-Addo (after the December 7 elections and before his swearing) that he was in charge and should take decisive action to halt the violence and lawlessness? Now that he has assumed power, will he stop the violence?
He noted that “transitions create an impression of [a] vacuum of power that makes some people act in their own parochial interest instead of national interest. I condemn that in no uncertain terms. However, since the current government is still in charge of this country, I urge them to get the security officers to act decisively on the current state of affairs.”
The government has not properly responded to serious lawlessness, which features the siege of state offices and aggressive raids.
Post-election violence
Several incidents of violence were recorded in various parts of the country, with some alleged NDC supporters besieging offices of the Electoral Commission. These thugs unleashed violence by vandalising properties and setting them on fire.
Such incidents include the ransacking of the EC office in Tepa, where the facility was damaged, and the setting ablaze of the EC office in Damongo, Savannah Region, during the collation of results.
There were also reports of fire service officers being assaulted and their phones seized in the process.
In the Ayensuano District, the EC office at Asuboi was also set on fire by rampaging youth, believed to be NDC members, protesting the declaration of parliamentary results in favour of the NPP candidate.
In the Greater Accra Region, the collation centre for the Ablekuma North parliamentary election was ransacked, disrupting the collation and declaration of results. Since then, the EC has not been able to fully collate and declare the winner of the parliamentary election of that constituency.
Besieging state institutions
Another disturbing trend following the change in power was individuals said to be affiliated with the NDC unlawfully storming state institutions to besiege the offices and threaten the staff of those institutions.
The alleged NDC supporters stormed the Ghana National Gas Company Limited (GNCL), attempting to besiege the premises. However, the timely intervention of a joint team of police and military brought the situation under control.
There was a standoff between the supporters and the security personnel, leading to them firing shots to disperse the crowd.
At the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) headquarters, suspected NDC supporters attempted to take control of the facility, a move that could have disrupted operations at one of the country’s key economic institutions.
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Forestry Commission, and Metro Mass Transit were all reportedly targeted by NDC-affiliated groups attempting to seize control.
The Ministry of Roads and Highways was also besieged by scores of NDC supporters protesting Godfred Amoo’s appointment as the ministry’s Chief Director. They argued that his appointment violated directives from President Mahama’s transition team, which ordered a halt to payments, recruitments, and promotions during the transition period.
At the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), another irate group stormed the state institution, protesting against the appointment of Mr. Anthony Sarpong as the acting Commissioner General. The main issue was that he was not a party man.
At the Head Office of the Bui Power Authority, a group of youths identifying themselves as supporters of the ruling NDC demanded all newly employed management and staff vacate their positions.
The leader of the group, captured lamenting in a viral video, accused the management of squandering the authority’s resources.
“They are sharing money among themselves, appointing themselves as directors who misuse the funds. They travel excessively. About two or three weeks ago, people were promoted or given jobs. Why do we need employment? We employ people to make our country better. We cannot employ people who make our country worse.
“We are here to tell anyone employed, from management to security staff or whoever it is. We are telling them that, now our government is in power. As of yesterday, I’m sure some of you are aware that we got a new energy minister. We are saying that all those people must pack their bags and leave,” he said.
He added, “We are fed up. So, all of them should pack their things and leave. We are saying that enough is enough; they should pack their things and go. Tell the receptionist that if she wants to be part of them, we will make sure she leaves here right now. Not even Mahama can stop us because the country belongs to all of us.”
Locking up offices
In Koforidua, some alleged NDC supporters stormed several public offices, forcing employees to pack their belongings and vacate the premises.
Among the affected offices were:
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), the Regional National Service Secretariat (NSS), the School Feeding Program, the National Lottery Authority (NLA), the New Juaben Municipal Assembly, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
The intruders reportedly locked the offices, leaving workers stranded and causing significant disruption to public services.
Employees at the Tema branch of the Ghana Cocoa Board in Accra were denied entry to the building.
The Tema Development Corporation (TDC) and the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) became focal points for the discontented NDC supporters, who called for the ousting of political appointees.
One of the aggrieved protestors who went about locking up some offices, Kwame Dankwa, told journalists: “We do not want any appointee of the previous administration to remain in office”.
“As you can see we didn’t cause any commotion, we don’t have any problem with anybody, we came here to perform a task. However, if we come back or get information that they are doing something different, that will be a different story,” Dankwa stated.
Basintale stake out at airport
Malik Basintale, Deputy National Communications Officer of the NDC and now CEO of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), reportedly stormed the Kotoka International Airport to prevent some former government appointees from travelling out of the country.
Seizing properties
The former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ho, Divine Kwabla Bosson, suffered at the hands of some alleged NDC supporters when they besieged his residence, locking his wife and children inside the apartment.
He claims that supporters of the NDC confined his wife due to their belief that she was trying to take government assets from their home.
Warranted/Unwarranted Raids
Lord Commey, former Director of Operations at the Jubilee House, had his vehicles seized following a midnight raid at his Dansoman residence by some men in civilian and military uniforms. The vehicles were later returned to him.
Ken Ofori-Atta, the former Minister of Finance, also had his Cantonment residence raided by a team of armed security operatives led by Richard Jakpa, the Director of Special Operations at the National Security. The house was ransacked per CCTV footage that was later released.
The private residence of Dr. Ernest Addison, the former Bank of Ghana Governor, was also raided by National Security operatives.
About 15 soldiers, arriving in three separate vehicles and wielding rifles, forcefully entered the premises.
Upon arrival, the operatives swiftly disabled the CCTV system before demanding that Dr. Addison lead them to supposed “vaults” hidden within the house.
His residence was also ransacked.
However, according to Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the raid was sanctioned by his office as part of investigations.
Speaking in an interview with JoyNews and monitored by GhanaWeb on Thursday, March 20, 2025, he explained that the operation was conducted within the legal framework of the country.
“We take responsibility for the search, and we want to make it clear that those searches and the mode in which they were done were done in accordance with law.
“Warrants were procured and the warrants were used to conduct those searches,” he noted.
Looting warehouses
In Tamale, individuals vandalised the offices of Social Welfare, Community Development, and Veterinary Services, resulting in the theft of valuable items such as furniture, official records, and critical equipment.
At the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly, youth believed to be NDC supporters damaged some property and carted food supplies reportedly intended for community distribution from the warehouse.
Council of State election violence
Chaotic scenes and violence marred the Council of State elections in the Ashanti Region as a group of unidentified thugs stormed the election centre, disrupting the sorting and counting of ballots.
Reports indicate that the assailants forcibly entered the premises, overturning tables, destroying ballot boxes, and dispersing voting materials, which led the Electoral Commission (EC) officials to suspend the process.
Scores of people, including journalists, were injured by the unknown thugs who invaded the polling station.
The list is extensive, with many more violent incidents yet to be reported, but is there an end in sight?
President Mahama must take his own advice and “act decisively on the current state of affairs.”
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has received a letter from Premier League side Nsoatreman FC announcing their decision to withdraw from the ongoing Premier League.
In the letter signed by the Club President and received from the official email of the club on March 14, 2025, the Club stated that the withdrawal was “due to safety concerns over the security and safety of our players”.
The club stated that they are forced to take this decision due to recent events involving their matches with Asante Kotoko SC and FC Samartex 1996 and can no longer guarantee the safety of their players and therefore the management and the board have decided to withdraw from the league.
The Football Association has had a number of engagements with the club on the subject matter without success. The GFA has accordingly activated the appropriate provisions in the competition Regulations relating to the matter. The matter has now been referred to the GFA Prosecutor and the disciplinary process will proceed in line with the provisions of the Regulations including but not limited to Article 13(5) of the Regulations.
Article 13(5) of the Regulations states that “where a club withdraws from the league after it has started, any match which that club is scheduled to play shall be considered forfeited and accordingly, three (3) points and three (3) goals shall be awarded in favour of the opposing club”.
Going forward, on each scheduled matchday of Nsoatreman FC, three (3) points and three (3) goals shall be awarded in favour of the opposing club.
Media personality and entertainment pundit MC Yaa Yeboah has called on Ghanaians to manage their expectations of the Black Stars following the 5-0 win over Chad.
The Black Stars of Ghana defeated Chad 5-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, 2025, in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Speaking on United Showbiz on UTV on March 22, 2025, MC Yaa Yeboah praised the team’s performance and the support given to the team by Ghanaians.
However, she stated that the victory was nothing extraordinary.
“The events leading up to the match and the videos on social media helped spark the interest of the fans. The team also did a good job during the match. But we shouldn’t be too excited. There was nothing extraordinary about the match,” she said.
According to MC Yaa Yeboah, Chad is not considered a tough opponent, and failing to score against them would have been unacceptable.
“If Ghana could not score against Chad, they would be dissolved. Because who has played against Chad and not been able to score?” she quizzed.
While she praised the team for securing a win, Yeboah argued that Ghanaians should not over-celebrate, noting that tougher matches lie ahead.
“Chad is not a tough team. It’s good we won by 5-0. But there is nothing extraordinary about the win. So we don’t have to be celebrating. There are tougher matches ahead.
“It is like the report cards the teacher writes at the end of the school year. There is more room for improvement. We haven’t reached anywhere yet,” she stated.
Yeboah urged fans and the Black Stars to remain focused, adding that the real test will come in more competitive matches.
“Let us play bigger matches, then we can brag that we have arrived,” she said.
Ghana’s Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has described the inauguration of Namibia’s first female president, H.E. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, as a powerful reflection of the resilience and determination of African women.
In a message shared on her official Facebook page on Saturday, March 22 2025, Prof Opoku-Agyemang said she was honoured to witness what she called a historic moment for the continent.
“Her leadership is a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of African women,” she wrote. “May she continue to inspire men and women across the continent and prove that with courage and commitment, no dream is beyond reach.”
Prof Opoku-Agyemang was in Namibia as part of Ghana’s delegation to the swearing-in ceremony of President Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The event, held on March 21 2025, also marked Namibia’s 35th Independence Day.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, a long-standing member of Namibia’s ruling SWAPO party, assumes office following decades of public service.
Her inauguration was attended by several African leaders, international dignitaries, and representatives of regional institutions.
In her first address as president, she touched on issues of governance, regional cooperation, economic diversification, youth unemployment, and climate change.
Ghana’s Film Industry experiences a renaissance: A bright future ahead
Featured
Delali Sika
Showbiz News
2 minutes read
Ghana’s film industry is undergoing a significant revival, sparking optimism and renewed energy across the creative sector.
Major investments from DSTV Akwaaba Magic and the success of standout productions such as One Night Guest, Pawn, and Two of a Kind have laid the foundation for a thriving cinematic landscape.
Renowned producer and director of Last Stop, Kwabena Gyansah, is confident that this momentum will continue into 2025 and beyond.
In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Mr Gyansah described the current industry transformation as more than a mere resurgence: “This new era is not just a revival; it’s a complete transformation of our creative landscape. With increased funding and a global appetite for authentic storytelling, Ghanaian cinema is poised to shine brighter than ever.”
He highlighted the unprecedented opportunities emerging for local talent, stressing that Ghana’s creative sector had been underestimated for too long.
“Now, we have the backing and the platforms to tell our stories on a global stage,” he stated.
With Last Stop set to premiere on March 28, 2025, Mr Gyansah believes that the ongoing resurgence will positively impact every aspect of the creative world, from acting and directing to screenwriting, cinematography, and production design.
“The success of recent films has validated our potential, and it’s exciting to see how this will translate into more roles and better pay for actors, richer narratives for writers, and innovative techniques for technical crews,” he explained.
He further emphasised that the industry is no longer just about making films but about building an ecosystem where every creative professional can thrive.
“Films like Last Stop are setting the tone for a new chapter in Ghanaian cinema. We’re now witnessing a movement where art meets commercial viability, and that gives us the freedom to push boundaries and experiment with bold, thought-provoking narratives.”
Nigerian actor, Segun Arinze, has dismissed rumours circulating on the internet that he is ill and in need of financial assistance.
The rumours started after photos of him looking frail with a bloated stomach surfaced on social media.
In a video on Instagram, Arinze assured fans that he is in perfect health.
He explained that the photos were taken on a movie set and did not reflect the actual state of his health.
Arinze expressed gratitude to those who reached out to him out of concern.
He however, warned the public to be vigilant to avoid falling victim to scams.
He emphasised that he does not need any financial support for medical expenses.
He said: “I want to thank my fans, friends, and associates all over the world for reaching out to me through calls and WhatsApp messages to find out how I’m doing.
“As you can see, I’m very fine. I’m fit as a fiddle. Those pictures flying around were taken from a film set. I don’t know why some people decided to cause mischief with them.
“I will continue to do my work, I will continue to contribute to the growth of my industry and Nigeria. God bless you. I love you.”
A former legal advisor to former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Vickie Bright, has expressed her disappointment with the management of the country by the erstwhile Akufo-Addo-led administration.
When asked on JoyNews to rate the former government, Vickie Bright expressed her disappointment, bitterly stating that, in her view, there were numerous issues within the administration describing it as ‘a mess’.
According to her, the former government enjoyed significant goodwill from the people but disappointed Ghanaians with most of their decisions.
Vickie Bright shared the view that, for a small country like Ghana, there was no need for an excessive number of ministers running the country.
“What I’ll say though is that it all started with such hope. Ghanaians had such big expectations, there was such goodwill following the former president. I remember when he was elected, the Makola women reduced the prices of goods before he could even do anything because they were just so excited, they thought, hey, they’re going to show us how this is done.
“But unfortunately, by the end of it, everything had fallen down like a lead balloon. It’s sad, that’s not what we expected. We had an over-bloated government. We are a small country of 32 million people we had no business having 100 plus ministers,” she indicated.
Bright continued expressing her surprise over the wanton wastage of money by many African leaders and their display of opulence when traveling to Western countries to seek aid.
She pointed out that these funds could have been better utilised to address more pressing issues that were burdening the economy.
“And one thing I could just never get my head around, and this doesn’t just apply to him [Akufo-Addo], but also to some other African leaders, you take a private jet, fuel it with so much money and go cup in hand to a country and sit in front of someone asking for money when that person has just taken a public train to work. I mean there’s something seriously wrong.
“Buying all these V8s and these are all depreciating assets. Why are we buying V8s in the first place? I don’t understand why we need to have these cars. We can’t afford them. Have you seen the cars that British ministers drive?” she quizzed.
Bright shared that the hardships experienced in the country contributed to the party’s defeat in the 2024 elections, citing that people were clearly upset.
She highlighted the haircuts on pensioners’ investments, which led to protests against the government and ultimately fueled their decision to vote the government out of office.
“What is it about us that makes us want things that we really can’t afford when there are more pressing things that we should be spending our money on? I felt that things could have gone a lot better under the previous administration and I find it very sad and unfortunate the way things ended.” She stated
“And I mean, look, it’s not me, it’s Ghanaians. Look at the election results. Nobody had won by such a huge margin so people clearly felt incensed. They just were indignant, they were upset.
“There was a lot of hardship. Pensioners picketing, sitting in the sun, and some needing money for their medication. It was a mess,” she concluded
A purported friend of Black Stars defender Gideon Mensah was stopped from entering the team bus to exchange pleasantries with his long-time friend.
In a video shared on X, personnel from the Ghana Police Service were seen dragging a man away from the team bus.
According to the man, he is a former academy teammate of Mensah and only attempted to enter the bus to greet his old friend. Unfortunately, his pleas to see Mensah never materialized.
The Black Stars defeated Chad 5-0 on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars have left for Morocco as they prepare to face Madagascar in their next game of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 7 pm.
Watch the video below:
The emotional moment an alleged former academy colleague of Gideon Mensah was stopped from entering the team bus.
According to him, they both played at the junior level and he only tried to enter the bus in an attempt to greet his old friend. pic.twitter.com/qevGj4AZZp
L-R:Nii-Armah Quaye, Kwame Despite, Nana Kwame Bediako and Joseph Siaw Agyepong
Stories of humble beginnings and rags-to-riches journeys are often shared to motivate and inspire many, especially young people who aspire to make a significant impact and succeed in their lives and careers.
These stories are abundant and serve as inspirational and motivational tales, instilling the belief that, with time and the right attitude, everyone can achieve similar success.
But what happens when these kinds of stories raise eyebrows—not because they didn’t happen, but because of how they are told, making them hard to believe?
GhanaWeb brings you five of such stories.
Wash 5,000 plates daily – Nii-Armah Quaye
From being relatively unknown to dominating the media space in recent weeks, Richard Nii-Armah Quaye has emerged as the latest ‘rags to riches’ sensation in Ghana.
The Founder of Bills Microcredit, in an interview with Bola Ray on GhOne TV, revealed that in his early years, he worked as a kitchen porter, washing up to 5,000 plates daily to meet job requirements.
“I was a kitchen porter, I washed as many as 5,000 dishes a day,” he recounted.
Through diligence and perseverance, Nii-Armah has now achieved remarkable success, acquiring luxury assets such as a Bugatti Chiron Sport and a private jet.
He disclosed that these assets are primarily used by himself and his mother, who has been a guiding force in his life, offering him advice and support.
“Now I have a private jet, which is for myself and my mother. My mother has been very supportive. I left the market early, but now I’m back on the market because I’m divorced. I also own a Bugatti Chiron Sport, which costs about four million dollars,” he stated.
I set up my company with GH¢3 – Joseph Siaw Agyepong
In the waste management industry and allied areas, the Jospong Group reigns supreme. Jospong is also in the media industry with its ownership of Metro TV and Original FM and TV.
The success of Jospong would not have been possible without a GH¢3 initial investment by the owner, Joseph Siaw Agyepong.
He is quoted by Joy FM as saying that a GH¢3 loan handed to him by his mother funded the establishment of Jospong Printing Press, which became the foundation for the Jospong conglomerate.
I sold scraps – Nana Kwame Bediako
Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar or Freedom Jacob Caesar (don’t be confused—these are all names of one person), is represented in the media as a real estate mogul and a politician.
Media reports indicate that Cheddar, or whichever of the three names you prefer, owns some of the most patronized and luxurious buildings in the country.
From Number 1 Oxford Street to the Kwarleyz Estates, Cheddar has built a niche as a real estate magnate in Ghana.
But his story started with the dismantling of his car and selling it as scrap to dealers in the United Kingdom.
“By age 21, he had made a million pounds for himself, selling scrap, steel, and telecommunications material while in school at Waltham Forest College,” Joy FM’s Twitter quoted him.
Selling cassettes – Despite
Kwame Despite Osei is hailed and celebrated as an entrepreneur and job creator who has provided job opportunities for thousands of people.
From media to finance to the beverage industry, he has an interest in key sectors of the Ghanaian economy.
It is no secret, however, that Despite’s wealth began with selling records at Kantamanto.
From there, he built a music distribution empire that catapulted him into the success he enjoys today.
St Philip Enterprise – GH¢2.50ps
In the phone and accessories business, St Philip Enterprise is high on the list of Ghana’s most popular companies.
With constant media advertisement, St Philip has positioned itself as a go-to destination for phones and accessories.
According to the CEO, Philip Danquah, the entire St Philip Enterprise was made possible by a GH¢2.50ps investment.
“I sold my coal pot for GH₵3 and came to Accra. The whole St Philip Enterprise started with GH¢2.50 pesewas,” he told Adom FM.
Three individuals are battling for their lives following a devastating head-on collision between an articulator truck and a Jeep 4×4 on the Berekum-Sampa road in the Bono Region.
The victims, whose identities are yet to be confirmed, are currently receiving emergency treatment at the Berekum Holy Family Hospital, according to reports gathered by the Ghana News Agency (GNA).
Government to pay trainee allowances through Controller and Accountant General’s Department
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President John Dramani Mahama has announced that teacher and nursing trainees’ allowances will now be paid through the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD) to ensure timely and regular disbursement.
Speaking at a durbar at the Jubilee Park in Tamale on Saturday as part of his Thank You Tour of the Northern Region, President Mahama assured students that this new payment method would eliminate the frequent delays in receiving their stipends.
“By this, the allowances would be paid regularly to the students just like how the CAGD pays salaries to government workers,” he stated.
Policy commitments and infrastructure development
Highlighting key policies in the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, President Mahama revealed that the government had allocated resources to provide free sanitary pads for girls in schools. The initiative aims to support young girls during their menstrual periods and reduce absenteeism in schools.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to completing the Eastern Corridor Road, describing it as a crucial project to enhance transportation across the country.
Gratitude and security concerns
President Mahama expressed deep appreciation to the people of the Northern Region for their overwhelming support during the December Presidential and Parliamentary Elections, which secured victory for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Meanwhile, Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, appealed to the President to consider establishing a military barracks in Yendi. He explained that such a facility would help address recurring conflicts along the Eastern Corridor and bolster security in the region.
Dr Kenneth Ashigbey, the Convener, Media Coalition against Illegal Mining, has called for a stiffer punishment, including jail term, for foreigners who engage in illegal mining, also known as “galamsey.”
He said deporting such persons was not deterrent enough and only weakened the fight against illegal mining.
Speaking on a private television station on Saturday, Dr Ashigbey stressed the need for key actors, particularly financiers of the operation, to be identified and arrested.
He insisted that a state of emergency be declared in areas affected by illegal mining as part of the government’s effort to end the menace.
He said such a declaration would provide more impetus to stakeholders charged with the responsibility to tackling the canker.
“We still demand the imposition of a state of emergency in the illegal mining fight. We also need to put in place a system where we can track all active excavators in Ghana,” he said.
Dr Ashigbey called for a complete repeal of the Legislative Instrument (L.I. 2462), which permitted the mining in forest reserves and disagreed with government’s attempt to review the LI.
Mr Daryl Bosu, the Deputy Director of A-Rocha Ghana, called for a complete overhaul of the mining licencing regime to help santise the mining sector.
He said the current licencing regime was responsible for the situation the country was grappling with and called for the removal of the current boss of the Minerals Commission as part of the “cleansing exercise.”
“If the ministry has come out to say, look, we are revoking all licences that were issued after December 7 because of procedural irregularities, the question you ask yourself is, who gave out those concession, how were they given and if you listen, it says that they were rushed through the processes,” he said.
“So, if this happened who supervised that. And we have already had issues, seriously, over the years as to who supervised all these messy licences that have been given out. We’ve had licences going over major rivers in this country, we’ve had licences overlapping with forest reserves in this country. How is it possible that the person who supervises, gives out these concessions, is still at post?” he quizzed.
Mr Martin Kpebu, a Private Legal Practitioner, also advocated the reshuffling of police command heads, especially those within identified illegal mining zones, to boost the fight.
Such a move would remove the familiarity that had been established between the illegal miners and the commanders within those areas and bring a renewed commitment to the fight.
Mr Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority, attributed the difficulty in eradicating the menace to the economic benefits that accrued from it.
To tackle the canker, he proposed an alternative livelihood for persons who engaged in the act.
The Ghana National Fire Service has confirmed the complete dousing of the devastating fire that raged for two days at the Blue Light Arena in Adum, Kumasi.
The Friday dawn inferno, which left over 5,000 traders and shop owners reeling from its impact, was finally brought under control through what the GNFS describes as the “relentless efforts” of its firefighters.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) praised the Ashanti Regional Fire Command and management for their heroic work, confirming that the Blue Light Arena is now rid of any fire.
“The devastating fire has been fully extinguished, thanks to the relentless efforts of our gallant and dedicated firefighters. Well done Ashanti Regional Fire Command. You have done what Napoleon couldn’t do. Sincere appreciation to all stakeholders who supported us in bringing closure to this fire management,” the statement disclosed.
However, some of the affected traders, have criticised the Fire Service, alleging that a lack of water exacerbated the destruction.
They claimed the response to the fire incident was inadequate, which they believe facilitated the fire getting out of control.
Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Services has responded to the claims, attributing the delays to the congested layout of the arena.
Regional Fire Commander, Assistant Chief Officer 2, Peter Tetteh, indicated that the problem was not lack of water, but lack of access to the burning area.
“We were here minutes after the call about the fire. We have been on the ground since then. It was late when the excavator was brought to create a path for us to enter the arena. If we had that intervention early, we could have salvaged the situation in a very short while. We surrounded the whole place but there was no access.” he said.
ACFO2 Peter Tetteh further explained that firefighters had connected to the Kejetia hydrant early in the operation, dismissing water scarcity as the issue.
“We were connected to the Kejetia hydrant already and began…. It was not about water, but accessibility. Four tenders were brought, tankers were available, water cannon came, and the ambulance service, the military and the police were also there. The problem was accessibility because when we arrived there was no issue with water. The issue was about accessibility,” he said.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWL) in the Central Region has said that more than 41 per cent of the water it produces and distributes across the region every month could not be accounted for, leading to substantial loss of revenue.
Already, the company operates only 56 per cent of its installed capacity largely due to activities such as illegal mining, farming and construction works which have affected the turbidity of the raw water and bad led to many sources virtually drying up.
GWL in the region is consequently grappling with exorbitant operational costs, and the loss of such significant amounts exacerbates their plight.
Ing John Eric Kwofie, the Regional Manager of the company, bemoaning the situation, attributed the thefts largely to illegal connection by some unpatriotic citizens through and in a few cases, leakages from burst pipelines and some regular customers who bypassed their meters to avoid billing.
Ing Kwofie expressed the concern during a meeting with the press to mark this year’s World Water Day celebration on the theme: “Glacier Preservation.”
World Water Day is an annual United Nations observance day held on March 22 to highlight the importance of fresh water and advocate sustainable management of freshwater resources.
In Ghana, however, the day is being observed under the theme: “Water conservation: Let’s make it our way of life.”
Ing Kwofie announced that as recently as Wednesday, some two customers were apprehended for stealing water and issued a penalty bill to pay.
To tackle the situation, the company had constituted a control team which would commence work soon to clamp down on the illegalities.
He further urged the public to report acts of water thefts in their communities to the company, pledging to treat such information as confidential and reward whistleblowers.
As if the water theft was not enough, the GWL in the Central Region is also dealing with meter theft which the Regional Manager admitted was pronounced across all regions, adding that his office was collaborating with the police to deal with perpetrators of such crimes.
Ing Kwofie assured the public that water production was gradually getting better with improved production and distribution.
He said rains from the Eastern Region had begun filling up the river sources and should it continue, the acute water shortage in the region would be mitigated.
“I must admit that we are not doing full production at these stations, and it will take some time for the situation to normalise across all the affected areas.
“We are hoping that within the next two weeks, if we get enough inflows and reliable power supply, we should be fine because the rains have started,” he stressed
He entreated the public to use water wisely and effectively to ensure an efficient management of the limited treated water.
“We shouldn’t use it to water our lawns, wash our vehicles and other similar things that will affect supply within the affected areas.
“When we manage it well, we will be able to survive the situation during the dry season,” he added.
Former Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare
A former Commissioner of the Ghana Police Service, Bright Oduro, pointed to irregular promotions as one of the misdeeds of the outgoing Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s “Big Issues” on Saturday, March 22, 2025, the former COP said the basic expectation of a police officer is to deliver on their job and that the decision by the former IGP to effect some promotions by virtue of performance was wrong, especially when some junior officers were elevated above their seniors.
“You should be junior to him your whole life, unless, probably, you do something extraordinary, and then you are promoted. Even in those days, if a junior does something extraordinary and is recommended, especially when you are an officer, as officers, we don’t just promote them. It is your job to do well, to do a diligent job. And so, officers from ASP and above, rarely would you see anybody being promoted,” he stated.
Citing his own time in the police service, Bright Oduro said that even though he had a good record in fighting crime, it never earned him a promotion as it was a requirement of his job.
“I did my part. I never had any promotion. The arrest of dangerous criminals—every dangerous criminal in our time, if you talk about Kombian, if you talk about Ata Ayi, if you talk about Low Ranger, I was behind all these arrests. Did I earn even a single promotion? I didn’t, because it was my job.
“Yet, it’s my job. But if somebody decides to say, ‘Oh, my brother, you did well, let us recommend him for promotion,’ even in my time, if I had been recommended for a special promotion, I don’t think anybody would have spoken about it. But I never benefited, and I wasn’t disturbed because it was my job,” he added.
Questioning some promotions during the tenure of Dr. Dampare, the former COP asked what was exceptional about the performance of some officers that warranted them being elevated even above their seniors.
“So, if an ASP is promoted to DSP the next day to a chief, what has he done that others have not done? And it’s not only one person; the whole junior group, the whole course group, are promoted over and above their seniors, let’s say those who were three jumps ahead of them, and you think they will be satisfied? So they were angry,” he stated.
He added that some decisions, including transfers sanctioned by Dr. Dampare, did not follow due process and therefore caused disaffection within the Ghana Police Service.
President John Dramani Mahama recently relieved Dr. Dampare of his position and appointed COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno in his stead.
While some members of the public criticized the decision, the removal of Dr. Dampare witnessed open jubilation among some police officers who accused him of several misdeeds, such as vindictiveness and victimization.
GA
You can also watch a compilation of the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV below:
Mr. Reindorf Twumasi Ankrah, the newly appointed Acting CEO of the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC), has hit the ground running in his efforts to advance the nation’s integrated aluminium industry. Within less than three weeks of assuming his role, he has outlined a clear vision to contribute over $2 billion to Ghana’s economy. In a call to potential investors, Mr. Ankrah announced that GIADEC is now open to forming partnerships with those who share the goal of establishing a robust integrated aluminium sector in Ghana. He emphasised that investors must also demonstrate both financial capability and industry expertise as key criteria for collaboration.
Image source: LinkedIn (GIADEC)
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Mr. Ankrah has already determined that GIADEC will require over USD 6 billion to fully develop the aluminium value chain in Ghana. During an investor engagement session this week with the African Selection Group (ASG), he shared this estimate and highlighted that depending solely on central government funding would not be a viable option, considering the current economic climate. As a result, seeking partnerships with suitable investors should be a way to go forward.
During the meeting, the Managing Director of ASG, John Kamara, expressed strong interest in collaborating with GIADEC to develop Ghana’s integrated aluminium industry, particularly in retrofitting and modernising the VALCO smelter. He outlined that ASG would invest in two phases in the short to medium term to enhance VALCO’s efficiency and increase its production capacity from 60,000 to over 300,000 tonnes annually.
In Phase 1, VALCO’s production facilities will be upgraded and expanded, implementing energy efficiency measures, undertaking technological upgrades, and modernising the potlines. In Phase 2, an alumina refinery will be built using an advanced, sustainable refining process to develop a stable and cost-effective supply chain of ore to VALCO while reducing dependence on imported raw materials.
Regarding power supply, Mr Kamara noted ASG would explore innovative technologies and alternative energy sources within Ghana’s energy mix to guarantee a reliable power supply for smooth operations.
During the investor engagement session, ASG was also represented by David Woodall, Group Operating Director; Wayne Apted, Chief Financial Officer; and Quinton Charaud, a member of the Finance Team.
Alex Nartey and Dr Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister
A member of the public relations unit of the Ghana National Fire Service, Alex King Nartey, has called out the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, over what he describes as an attempt to engage in self-aggrandizement at the expense of hardworking firefighters.
Reacting to a viral video from the scene of the Adum Market fire, where Dr. Amoakohene was captured calling out firefighters for failing to show enthusiasm in fighting the blaze, King Nartey questioned the motivation behind the minister’s actions while noting their impact on the morale of the officers.
“He could have easily just approached any of our officers or the commander at the scene without having to necessarily put a camera on himself to create a spectacle. To what end? Because at Kantamanto, there was no shouting, but we were able to quench the fire.
“So what was the essence of the shouting with the cameras there, just to create a scene that you are working? When the men who are actually working and putting their lives on the line were being demoralised, who does that?” he told TV3 in an interview.
The PRO highlighted the challenges faced by firefighters in their line of duty, contrasting them with motivating factors such as insurance to compensate for injuries and other risks.
“One of our officers fell from the top and is at the hospital right now. We don’t have health insurance, we don’t have any height allowance, there are no allowances. I can tell you that the firefighter who got injured would have to use his own money to cover the expenses and later file for a refund.
“The president himself acknowledged the efforts of the firefighters and came to say thank you. Where was the thanks from the honourable minister? There was nothing; he just wanted to criticize our men and then demoralize them. Our men were highly demoralized; it took self-motivation to get them back on their feet. So to what end do you have to shout at our men and behave as if you don’t know?” he stated.
On March 21, 2025, a fire broke out at Adum Market, located in the heart of Kumasi’s Central Business District in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The blaze started in the early hours of the morning, around 6:00 AM, and rapidly spread through a multi-storey commercial building, engulfing shops selling items such as mobile phones, accessories, jewellery, clothing, and second-hand goods.
The exact cause remains under investigation by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), which has been at the scene since the outbreak.
Firefighters faced challenges in containing the blaze due to the market’s congested layout and limited access routes, with narrow alleyways and closely packed wooden structures hampering their efforts. The GNFS deployed multiple fire tenders, but the highly combustible materials in the shops fueled the inferno’s rapid spread.
However, the Ashanti Regional Minister, who had been visiting the site of the inferno on Friday night, expressed frustration at the firefighters for their lack of commitment in fighting the blaze.
In response, Alex King Nartey accused the minister of seeking to embarrass the officers for social media trends and implored him to instead familiarize himself with the operations of firefighters.
“Don’t be quick to embarrass the hardworking firefighters for social media trends and attention without familiarizing yourself with our operations,” he wrote in a Facebook post.
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You can also watch a compilation of the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV below:
Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu
The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of committing serious “economic atrocities” during their eight years in power.
He said the previous administration engaged in reckless financial decisions, and incurred “needless judgment debts” that have left the current government under financial stress.
Speaking during the ongoing budget debate in Parliament, Kwakye Ofosu dismissed the opposition’s claim that the current budget had made excessive allocations to the Office of the President.
He clarified that the GH¢2.7 billion allocated to the Office of Government Machinery was primarily for compensation, covering salaries for civil servants.
He explained that under the current administration, the Office of Government Machinery now includes 30 agencies from the previous government.
Additionally, he said, the collapse of seven ministries by President John Mahama has resulted in over 11,600 civil servants being added to the payroll.
He emphasised that while critics claim the budget is bloated, there has actually been a cut of GH¢419 million in goods and services and capital expenditure for the Office of Government Machinery compared to 2024.
Kwakye Ofosu also refuted claims that his office had been allocated GH¢78 million for personal use.
He clarified that the amount was meant for the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, the Information Services Department, and the Ghana News Agency, which collectively have 2,537 staff.
According to him, this allocation is insufficient, considering that the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation alone requires GH¢36 million to establish a presence in the six new regions.
He further disputed claims that under the previous administration, the Ministry of Information was given only GH¢10 million, stating that in 2024, the ministry actually received GH¢262 million.
Additionally, he pointed out that the NPP government had a significantly larger communication team at the presidency, with 28 personnel, while the current administration has only seven, handling government communications.
Adding to the debate, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, stated that the economy is now in safe hands and that the government was committed to restoring financial stability.
He assured Parliament that the current administration would work diligently to put Ghana back on the right track.
However, the MP for Akuapem North, Samuel Awuku, strongly disagreed to the assertion, describing the claims of economic mismanagement as “not factual.”
He argued that when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) left power, they among others, handed over 6.1 billion dollars in import cover, whereas the NPP left 8.9 billion dollars.
“You cannot accuse the NPP of mismanaging the economy for eight years,” he stated.
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Inaki Williams registered a goal against Chad on Friday
Ghana international Inaki Williams has shared his excitement after scoring to inspire the Black Stars’ emphatic victory against Madagascar in the World Cup qualifiers.
The Athletic Bilbao striker scored his second goal for the national team when the Black Stars thumped their Chadian counterparts 5-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The magnificent victory over Chad has propelled the West African powerhouse to the summit of Group I, boosting the team’s chances of securing a spot for the biggest soccer mundial next year.
Goals from Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, and Jordan Ayew ensured the Black Stars went into the halftime break with a huge advantage over their opponent.
In the second half, Mohammed Salisu and Ernest Nuamah put the icing on the cake after both found the net in the thrilling clash.
Before this game, the former Spain international had promised to score against Chad on home turf.
Having fulfilled his promise, Williams took to social media to celebrate his achievement with the Black Stars.
“Said and done. Let’s go for more. Thank you all for the support,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars have already landed in Morocco for the crucial game against Madagascar on Monday.
A win for the Black Stars on Monday will be crucial for Coach Otto Addo’s side, ensuring that they improve their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Madagascar, trailing Ghana by only two points in the Group I standings, will also be keen on earning the three points to retake the top spot.
Retired Colonel Festus Aboagye has levelled serious allegations against former Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr Ernest Addison, following a recent search of his residence by National Security operatives.
The operation, which has stirred significant controversy, was criticised by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who claimed that personal belongings, including cash and jewellery belonging to Dr Addison’s wife, were taken during the search.
However, according to Rtd. Col. Aboagye, intelligence gathered by the state suggested that Dr Addison had installed electronic surveillance equipment at his residence, allegedly linked to the Bank of Ghana.
This setup, he asserted, enabled the former Governor to monitor activities at the central bank remotely. He maintained that the search was carried out based on this intelligence, implying that the operation was justified.
Speaking in an interview with TV3, Rtd. Col. Aboagye elaborated on the allegations, claiming that sources within National Security had confirmed the existence of what he described as “back door electronic devices” at Dr Addison’s home.
He suggested that these devices were not merely for personal security but were deliberately installed to facilitate covert surveillance of the BoG’s internal affairs.
He further alleged that the ‘destruction’ of Dr Addison’s CCTV camera during the search was, in reality, the removal of a “monitoring wire” used for surveillance purposes.
“Monitoring is a very diplomatic word. This is spying, this is surveillance,” he stated.
He stressed that no former Governor of the BoG had the authority to install surveillance systems that allowed remote monitoring of the bank’s operations.
As of now, Dr Addison or his legal representatives have yet to issue an official response to the claims.
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.
Members of the club arrived in a convoy of luxury cars
Members of the prestigious East Legon Executive Fitness Club made a grand entry to the 40th birthday reception of business mogul Richard Nii-Armah Quaye held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Independence Square.
Lined up in a convoy of cars ranging from classic vintage makes to ultramodern Rolls Royces, among others, the group of affluent and influential members of Ghanaian society were the centre of attraction at the event, which captured the attention and focus of Ghanaian netizens on Saturday night.
Some notable members of the group sighted at the birthday event were businessman Osei Kwame Despite and his business partner Ernest Ofori Sarpong.
The crowning moment for the star-studded event was the surprise presentation of three luxurious cars to the celebrant.
A Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series, a Lexus LX 600, and a Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G 63 AMG) were lined up and presented to Nii-Armah Quaye by his business partners.
The birthday event saw the attendance of several stars and business gurus within Ghana and across the African continent.
Personalities who graced the event include a host of movie stars, musicians and politicians.
Several musicians, including Sarkodie, Efya, Davido and Diamond Platinum, also graced the occasion.
Former National Service Authority (NSA) Director-General, Osei Assibey Antwi
The National Investigative Bureau (NIB) has released former National Service Authority (NSA) Director-General Osei Assibey Antwi after nearly three days in detention.
His release follows widespread media reports raising concerns about his health while in custody, as well as mounting public pressure demanding his freedom.
He arrived at his Accra residence at approximately 10:28 PM, where he was warmly received by his family.
A family source told Classfmonline.com that Osei Assibey appeared visibly distressed and unwell.
He was reportedly heard muttering, “I haven’t experienced anything like this before.”
The former NSA boss is expected to report to the NIB Headquarters on Monday, March 25, 2025, for further engagements.
Dr. Shafic Suleman, the Executive Secretary of the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC), has urged industrialists to take advantage of the excess electricity available at the Tumu substation to establish industries in the area.
President John Dramani Mahama on Saturday assured the Ya-Na Abukari II, Overlord of Dagbon of his government’s determination to address the issue of lack of water in Yendi and its environs with urgency.
The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWL) in the Central Region has said that more than 41 per cent of the water it produces and distributes across the region every month could not be accounted for, leading to substantial loss of revenue.
Image source: LinkedIn (GIADEC)
