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CSOS urge government to increase budget on sustainable vaccines

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Mr Raymond Danso, Manager of Rights to Social Services Portfolio at STAR Ghana Foundation, has urged the government to budget for sustainable vaccine for emergencies in the future.

He said it was important for government to prioritise funding primary healthcare infrastructure and staffing to enhance quality healthcare delivery.

Mr Danso made the appeal at a convening on tracking government’s commitments in the health sector.

It was organised in Tamale by STAR Ghana Foundation under the Inclusive Elections and Accountable Governance in Ghana Project (Phase III) of the Gender Rights and Empowerment Project (G-REP) with funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The event bought together key stakeholders, including civil society organisations (CSOs), health sector practitioners, advocacy groups, and the media to foster evidence-based advocacy and policy dialogue.

Mr Danso appealed to the government to introduce rotational workforce in the health sector to improve on saving lives, especially in rural areas.

He urged the government to provide differential incentives for those working in rural and underserved areas by re- engineering the training and regulation of doctors to include extensive exposure to rural and underserved areas to help improve on the situation.

Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko-Amidu, Executive Director, STAR Ghana Foundation, advised CSOs to hold duty-bearers accountable by strengthening their key role in monitoring the government’s performance and advocating for reforms.

He urged CSOs to develop strategies for tracking government’s commitments on healthcare improvement in the country to reduce health challenges.

Dampare’s removal not due to underperformance

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Economic policy analyst Senyo Hosi Economic policy analyst Senyo Hosi

Economic policy analyst Senyo Hosi has suggested that the removal of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare was not a result of underperformance.

Speaking on The KeyPoints, he argued that Dampare’s effectiveness may have made him a target within the police service.

“Unfortunately for my friend Dampare, he’s a victim of his good work,” Hosi remarked.

He explained that Dampare’s leadership had created a divide within the police force, with some officers resisting change while others embraced his reforms.

“There’s some kind of division in the police because you have a group of people who wish the old way could be the path and then a lot of people who also embrace the new path,” he added.

Hosi’s comments come from President John Mahama’s decision on March 13 to replace Dampare with COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno.

The appointment was officially announced in a press release signed by Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, stating: “President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Articles 91 and 202 of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, appointed Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the Inspector-General of Police.”

RULES: Ghana Premier League clubs to be deducted points after Nsoatreman FC withdrawal

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Nsoatreman FC has officially withdrawn from the ongoing 2024/25 Ghana Premier League, citing concerns over the “security and safety” of their players.

The decision was announced on Friday, March 14, 2025. The former FA Cup champions were nearly attacked ahead of their Matchday 23 clash against FC Samartex at DUN’s Park on Monday, further escalating fears over their safety.

Their withdrawal follows an earlier ban from hosting home games at the Nana Kronmansah Park after a tragic incident on February 2, when an Asante Kotoko fan was stabbed to death during their Matchday 19 fixture. According to Article 14, Clause 5 of the GFA General Regulations:

“The GFA shall expunge from the record any points and/or goals build-up in respect of matches played with a club that withdraws from the competition after the competition has started.

“This means that all points and goals accumulated by clubs in matches against Nsoatreman will be removed from the league standings, potentially reshaping the competition as teams lose previously earned points.

Ghanasportspage.com is monitoring the FA’s response to Nsoatreman FC.

PHOTOS: Sports Minister orders urgent repairs at Accra Sports Stadium ahead of Black Stars’ World Cup Qualifier against Chad

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Sports and Recreation Minister, Hon. Kofi Adams, has directed the National Sports Authority (NSA), led by Yaw Ampofoh Ankrah, to oversee the immediate completion of emergency facility upgrades at the Accra Sports Stadium before the Monday evening deadline.

The directive comes as concerns grow over the deteriorating floodlights at the stadium, which have been left to dangerously rust.

The minister has ordered their immediate replacement within 48 hours to ensure that the Black Stars can hold their first training session as scheduled on Monday evening.

The urgency of the repairs is linked to Ghana’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad, set to take place at the Accra Sports Stadium on May 21, 2025.

With the national team set to begin preparations next week, ensuring the stadium meets the necessary standards has become a top priority.

The NSA is now tasked with supervising and ensuring that all emergency fixes are completed in time to avoid disruptions to the Black Stars’ preparations.

Cybersecurity awareness initiative equips students with essential digital skills

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A cybersecurity professional, Salamatu Chator Ibrahim returned to her alma mater, Pentecostal Centre School, with a mission beyond personal celebration.

Rather than conventionally marking her birthday, she gave back by leading a cybersecurity awareness outreach, equipping young students with essential knowledge to navigate the digital world safely.

For Salamatu, this initiative was deeply personal. Having once sat in those very classrooms, she understood the challenges young people face in today’s digital era. With smartphones and internet access becoming increasingly common among children, she recognised the urgent need for early cybersecurity education to protect them from online threats.

The outreach primarily targeted primary and junior high school students, acknowledging that many young Ghanaians already have access to the internet but often lack the awareness needed to stay safe online. The objective was simple yet profound: to instil cybersecurity awareness at an early age so that students could develop responsible digital habits before reaching senior high school and beyond.

“By teaching them now, we’re shaping a generation that understands the risks of the digital space and how to navigate it wisely,” Salamatu emphasised.

The event featured interactive and engaging sessions led by professionals from various backgrounds, making complex cybersecurity topics relatable and easy to understand for the students. Philip Gyimah educated students on online harassment and the importance of standing up against cyberbullying. Rafiatu Ibrahim highlighted the risks of sharing inappropriate images and the importance of maintaining a strong digital reputation.

Alexandra Boateng, CEO of Educ8Africa Ghana, shed light on online blackmail and provided strategies to stay safe. Fauzia Nurudeen emphasised that cybersecurity isn’t just for IT professionals but for anyone who uses the internet. Sharon, a University of Ghana student, facilitated an engaging discussion where students could ask questions and receive practical advice.

To further support the students, the team donated exercise books, cybersecurity books for children, and calculators to help junior high school students preparing for the next stage of their education.

Beyond just an educational session, Salamatu and her team wanted their visit to have a lasting effect on the school’s learning environment. To support students and teachers in sustaining cybersecurity education, they donated four cybersecurity books to the school library and two packs of books from UCC hall executives.

The school proprietress expressed deep gratitude, acknowledging the team’s efforts and encouraging other alumni to follow Salamatu’s example by giving back to their former schools.

In her closing remarks, Salamatu shared her personal journey—from being a student at Pentecostal Centre School to building a career in cybersecurity. She urged the students to embrace learning, make responsible choices online, and believe in their potential.

She left them with these key cybersecurity lessons: think before you type – cyberbullying has real consequences and you should speak up if you’re a victim; never share inappropriate images – once something is online, control is lost; be mindful of online interactions – sextortion is a real threat, so protect yourself; and cybersecurity is for everyone – regardless of career choice, online safety matters for all.

Salamatu also encouraged students, especially young Ghanaians, to explore careers in cybersecurity, technology, and innovation.

“The future of cybersecurity starts with awareness and education,” she said, hoping that the outreach had sparked an interest in digital safety and technology careers among the students.

The event ended with a gratitude session, refreshments, and a closing prayer led by Rukaya Mohammed, a dedicated team member.

As Salamatu left her alma mater, she felt a deep sense of fulfilment.

“This outreach was more than just a one-time event—it was the beginning of a movement. A movement to educate, inspire, and empower young people to create a safer digital future,” she reflected.

She extended heartfelt appreciation to her team, speakers, donors, and everyone who made the outreach a success.

With this initiative, Salamatu Chator Ibrahim has set the stage for a future where cybersecurity education becomes an integral part of the learning experience for young Ghanaians.

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.

Government’s proposed 80% transfer of mineral royalties sparks controversy

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The government’s proposal to transfer 80% of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) into the Consolidated Fund for infrastructure development has raised concerns among economic analysts and industry experts.

The move, as outlined in the 2025 Budget Statement, could severely weaken MIIF’s ability to invest in high-yield assets that would ensure long-term financial stability.

Experts warn that this decision risks turning Ghana into a classic example of the boom-and-bust cycle, where mineral revenues are quickly depleted without creating sustainable economic benefits.

Financial analyst Nii Addo Lawman is arguing that, “The proposal to transfer 80% of MIIF’s funds to the Consolidated Fund may provide short-term fiscal relief, but at the cost of long-term financial security. This move will not only undermine MIIF’s operations but could cripple it, thereby defeating the purpose for which it was established.”

He explains that “Ghana risks becoming another cautionary tale of a resource-rich country that mismanages its wealth, rather than harnessing it for sustainable economic transformation.”

Lawman pointed to global examples of how countries have successfully managed their natural resource wealth to ensure long-term stability. “Norway’s Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG), for instance, has grown into a $1.4 trillion fund, securing financial stability even as oil production declines. Bahrain’s Mumtalakat Fund also prioritises investment over direct government spending, ensuring economic sustainability,” he noted.

He warned that if Ghana proceeds with this amendment, MIIF will struggle to invest in local mining operations and strategic assets, which could have long-term consequences.

“MIIF could have grown into a $10 billion sovereign wealth fund over the next 15 years, generating enough revenue to support government infrastructure projects while maintaining financial stability. Instead, we risk losing investor confidence and reducing our ability to fund local mining initiatives,” he stressed.

Lawman urged the government to reconsider the policy and adopt a hybrid model that balances investment with infrastructure development.

“Rather than stripping MIIF of its resources, a better approach would be to allow it to invest and grow, ensuring that Ghana’s mineral wealth serves the country long after the resources are depleted,” he counselled.

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.

Increased funding for Ghana’s School Feeding Programme is an investment in the economy

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The 2025 Ghana Budget Statement announced a significant increase in funding for the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GHFP), raising the daily meal allocation per child from GH¢1.50 to GH¢2.00.

This enhanced allocation highlights the government’s commitment to improving educational, health, and economic outcomes.

School meal programs are recognized globally by the World Food Programme as the largest social safety nets, significantly impacting education, health, and economic development.

According to the 2024 Global School Meals Survey, approximately 410 million children worldwide, including 3.6 million children in Ghana, benefit from school meal initiatives 1.

Recent systematic reviews confirm that school feeding programs in Africa and other low- and middle-income countries positively influence school attendance, enrollment, and retention 2,3.

Additionally, substantial evidence indicates these programs contribute significantly to improvements in children’s weight and height, key indicators of better nutritional status and overall health in low- and middle-income settings

A cost-benefit analysis (CBA) conducted by Ghana’s Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection 4 under former administration previously recommended an increase from GH¢1.20 to GH¢1.50 per student, projecting the economic viability of investing in school feeding.

The analysis revealed a substantial economic return in the current state of the GSFP: for every GH¢1.00 spent, the programme generated GH¢3.30 in economic benefits, primarily through improved education, better health outcomes, and overall economic growth.

Thus, increased investment in the Ghana School Feeding Programme represents a strategic decision that supports both immediate and long-term economic development.

However, the programme faces several challenges that may undermine its effectiveness. Observational studies 5–9 reveal critical issues, including financial constraints, political interference, poor meal quality, unclear nutritional standards, operational inefficiencies, and limited stakeholder engagement.

The CBA report from the ministry projects a potential gain of GH¢9.00 for every GH¢1.00 invested, based on the situation in other countries, if the associated inefficiencies are addressed.

Thus, to maximize the effectiveness of Ghana’s recent GH¢444 million investment, prioritizing strong governance, transparency, improved meal quality, clear nutritional standards, and sustained community engagement is essential.

Addressing these challenges proactively will ensure that the benefits of the School Feeding Programme extend beyond improvements in enrollment and attendance, contributing to lasting educational, health, and economic benefits for Ghana.

References

1.Global Report of School Meal Programs Around the World. GCNF https://gcnf.org/global-reports/.

2.Wall, C. et al. The Impact of School Meal Programs on Educational Outcomes in African Schoolchildren: A Systematic Review. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public. Health 19, 3666 (2022).

3.Wang, D., Shinde, S., Young, T. & Fawzi, W. W. Impacts of school feeding on educational and health outcomes of school-age children and adolescents in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J. Glob. Health 11, 04051 (2021).

4.School Feeding in Ghana – Investment Case – Cost Benefit Analysis Report | World Food Programme. https://www.wfp.org/publications/school-feeding-ghana-investment-case-cost-benefit-analysis-report (2019).

5.Galaa, S. & Saaka, M. Running an effective and sustainable school feeding programme: Key factors to consider. J. Soc. Dev. Afr. 26, 39–65 (2011).

6.Iddrisu, I. Improving School Feeding through Participation: Should the Teacher Be Actively Involved? Int. J. Educ. Manag. 32, 141–154 (2018).

7.Iddrisu, I., Sayibu, M., Zhao, S., Ahmed, A.-R. & Suleiman, A. S. School feeding as a social protection programme or a political largesse: a review. Int. J. Comp. Educ. Dev. 21, 16–30 (2019).

8.Iddrisu, I., Gunu, I. M. & Abdul-Rahaman, N. Challenges of school feeding in Ghana: Its effect on enrolment and attendance. Soc. Sci. Humanit. Open 6, (2022).

9.Mohammed, A.-R. The politicisation of social programmes: insights from Ghana’s School Feeding Programme. Dev. Pract. 32, 901–911 (2022).