Officially there is Ghanaian statutory law that prohibits civilians and foreign nationals from wearing military apparel such as camouflage clothing, or clothing which resembles military dress.

There are a number of those not having required knowledge about military accoutrements that believe, the president can wear the Military Uniform, however it’s absolutely fraudulent and misapplication to the Law, without exception.

The President is a civilian. Ghana operates under a unitary presidential republic system where the president is both the head of state and head of government.

The current president, as we all know, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, is a civilian, elected through a democratic process, not a military leader. He is not even privileged to wear to the Military Uniform not alone, entitled.

The audacious inclination to arrogate to himself, the use of the Military Uniform and insignia is an outrageous act and with impunity.

It takes hard training, dedication, courage and commitment for be an Officer in the Military. And furthermore, his receiving of the parchment, that indicates the authority vested.

Successful candidates undergo a comprehensive training program, lasting 15-24 months for Regular Commission and to 6-8 months for Short Service Commission, leading to their commissioning as officers in the Ghana Armed Forces.

The climaxing point of the cadet, is upon successful completion of the Regular Commission Course, when the officer cadets are commissioned as Second Lieutenants or equivalent ranks of their Arm of Service in the Ghana Armed Forces, bearing in mind with a minimum service commitment of around 10-15 years.

The attestation is simply unambiguous as every served or serving officer is acquainted with.

So, “The Military” is ‘No go to him’, the president is a civilian.

As a country, we must remember that a political system could undergo a transmorphic change, and so, must be wary of undergoing a complete transformation in its structure and operation.

Civilians don’t wear military uniforms, unless they are acting, and he John Mahama being the president is not acting.

May I ask, could the President, as C-in-C, design and wear a military uniform? If so, what would be the rank insignia?

There’s a misconception

out there, this is frequently misunderstood. “Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces” is a position, not a rank, and though they are in the military chain of command, the President is a civilian, so also are the Minister of Defense and the deputies.

Having said that, there’s nothing actually that stops the President or ministers from wearing a uniform.

The caveat however, the person should have served having with shoulder epaulette or insignia.

A peek at the American presidents that served in the military before seeking elected office.
Though I have not read much U.S. history, I know of a few that transitioned from the military to civilian office as presidents.

a. George Washington (American Revolutionary War-Commanding General) was the first President of the United States. He never wore his military uniform in office.

b. Jackson (General, The American – British War of 1812) went on to become President of the United States. He wore the civilian dress of the day while in that capacity.

c. Ulysses S. Grant (Union Army – American Civil War) went on to become President of the United States. He wore the civilian dress of the day while he was Commander In Chief.

d. Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt (Spanish American War – Rough Riders and San Juan Hill) never wore his uniform as President of the United States.

e. Dwight D. Eisenhower, World War II, (Supreme Allied Commander, Europe), never wore his uniform as President of the United States.

f. John F. Kennedy, (U.S. Naval Officer, World War II hero of PT-109), never wore his uniform as President of the United States.

g. Jimmy Carter, (United States Naval Submarine Commander), never wore his uniform as Commander In Chief. Are you following the drift? Want to believe readers are beginning to see the common thread weaving through this article?

The president, no matter who it is, is Commander-in-Chief, but remains a civilian and not a military member.

Ghana has civilian control of the military. I suppose there’s nothing to stop a president from wearing a uniform, but he or she is not a military member so it would be pretty meaningless, not to mention the lack of judgement.

Could the President of the Ghana wear a military uniform, and what would his rank insignia be? Well

He “Can” of course put one on. Physically!

But the reality is President does not have a rank, and is not, in fact a member of the Armed Forces and is not legally entitled to wear a uniform or any badge of rank. He is not subject to the Military Code of Discipline.

He’s not an officer, he would have to be confirmed by the Parliament if he was.
He is a civilian with the job of Commander in Chief. He is not in the military, he just tells military what to do.

Most people are incognizant of the Law that states that: unauthorized wearing of uniform; rank insignia; violation; in classification is a breach.

No law dictates what clothing a president wears. However, as the president is a civilian, wearing a military uniform would be improper or even unlawful if he or she never served.
Persons entitled are veterans, those who are honorably discharged – the veteran, who benefits and is authorized to wear the uniform as it was on the day of discharge or the current version, for appropriate events, such as a Veterans’ Day ceremony. But I know of no president who ever did such a thing while in office.

Then, why is it that, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, the president, portraying attributes of nature and the peculiarity of personality, and a virtue like that?

Not only is he NOT required to wear a uniform, he is not entitled to.

Presidents serve in civilian status, any, must be retired or discharged as was the case of Jerry John Rawlings.

Let me remind everyone the is notion out that, the issue which is frequently misunderstood. I want to repeat “Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces” is a position, not a rank, and though they are in the military chain of command, the President is a civilian, as are the Minister of Defense and his deputies.

The president, no matter who it is, is Commander-in-Chief, but remains a civilian and not a military member.

The governance in Ghana, have civilian control of the military due to the practicing of democracy.

I believed to be the case, but not necessarily so, there’s nothing to stop a president from wearing a uniform but, definitely he or she is not a military member, so it would be pretty having no meaning or significance, not to mention unintelligible to act in such a manner or case.

To drum home – I repeat and to those having little knowledge of the Military – the president is a civilian and civilians don’t wear military uniforms, unless they are acting, and Mr. Mahama, the president is not acting.

While the president could probably wear whatever he or she wants, a good example was Jerry John Rawlings, the president declared mentor.

When elected in November 1992, he did retire and resigned from the Ghana Armed Forces and Ghana Air Force earlier, 12 July 1992 to be precise. When he took office in January 1992, he resigned from the Air Force.

Rawlings, a Commissioned Officer never betrayed his knowledge of what was expected of him.

The Ghanaian presidency is a CIVILIAN office (as I have explained early concerning the chain-of-command). Flight Lieutenant Rawlings understood this and acted accordingly.
One might ask if Mahama is not deserving to the Military Uniform, why is he the Commander-in-Chief?

The President is a civilian but in a democracy, the military is prepared to obey others, unquestioningly or subordinate to the civilian government. That is a fundamental aspect of the Ghana system of government.

Based on the foregoing the President who held military position have to resign from the military before running for office, as in case of Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings.
What medals, tabs and ribbons would a sitting President be entitled to wear?

In Ghana, after you serve in the military and migrate to civilian government service as the President and Commander In Chief – you do not wear the military uniform any more. That part of your life is in your rear view mirror.

If you become Commander In Chief and were never in the military – you do not wear a military uniform because it is unethical, “because there is no ceremonial military uniform for the President of Ghana”.

“Restriction On Use Of Military Uniforms And Equipment Act – GhanaLegal – Legal Portal for Ghana” https://ghanalegal.com/laws_subdomain/acts/id/249/restriction-on-use-of-military-uniforms-and-equipment-
LAWS RESTRICTION ON USE OF MILITARY UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT ACT – 1967 (NLCD 177)

Section – 1 – Military Uniforms, Etc. Not To Be Worn By Civilians.
No person shall wear or use any military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other material unless he is-

(a) a member of the Armed Forces of Ghana wearing or using the uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel which he is authorised to wear or use, or

(b) a member of any other Armed Forces and has the consent of the National Liberation Council, or is entitled by law or by diplomatic usage, to wear or use such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel, or

(c) an ex-serviceman wearing or using such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel on a ceremonial, anniversary or other special occasion approved by the National Liberation Council, or

(d) a person whom the National Liberation Council has by executive instrument authorised to wear or use such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel.

Section – 2 – Unauthorised Persons Not To Sell Or Buy Military Uniforms, Etc.
No person shall sell or buy any military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other material unless he is authorised in that behalf by the National Liberation Council.

Section – 3 – Licences Not To Be Issued For The Importation Of Military Uniforms, Etc.
Except as the National Liberation Council may in any particular case otherwise direct, no licence shall be issued under the Importers (Regulations and Imposition of Fees) Act, 1963 (Act 218) for the importation of any military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other materiel.

Section – 4 – Offence.
(1) Any person who contravenes any provision of this Decree commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding five hundred new cedis or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year or to both such fine and imprisonment.

(2) No prosecution shall be instituted under this paragraph without the consent of the Attorney-General.

Section – 5 – Interpretation.

In this Decree-
(a) “Armed Forces” includes the Police and Prisons Services;

(b) “military” shall be construed as relating to all or any of the Armed Forces, the Police and Prisons Services; and

(c) “military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other materiel” does not include accommodation stores and military vehicles but shall include every manner of secondhand military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other materiel worn or used by the Armed Forces of Ghana or of any other country notwithstanding that such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel has ceased to be worn or used by any such Armed Forces.

(a) a member of the Armed Forces of Ghana wearing or using the uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel which he is authorised to wear or use, or

(b) a member of any other Armed Forces and has the consent of the National Liberation Council, or is entitled by law or by diplomatic usage, to wear or use such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel, or

‘
(c) an ex-serviceman wearing or using such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel on a ceremonial, anniversary or other special occasion approved by the National Liberation Council, or

(d) a person whom the National Liberation Council has by executive instrument authorised to wear or use such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel.’

No person shall sell or buy any military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other material unless he is authorised in that behalf by the National Liberation Council.

The Law haven’t been repealed. But amended – deletion and insertion of relevant portions
Thanks to Parliament of Ghana. There’s Ghanaian statutory law that officially prohibits civilians and foreign nationals from wearing military apparel such as camouflage clothing, or clothing which resembles military dress.

Act 746 of Ghana, formally known as the Restriction on Use of Military Uniforms and Equipment (Amendment) Act, 2008, amends the original Restriction on Use of Military Uniforms and Equipment Act. This act prohibits the unauthorized use of military uniforms and equipment, aiming to prevent impersonation and maintain the integrity of the military.
Here’s a more detailed look:

Purpose:
The primary goal of the act is to prevent individuals from fraudulently impersonating military personnel or utilizing military equipment for illegal purposes.

Scope:
The act covers a wide range of military attire, including uniforms, badges, and any equipment associated with the Ghana Armed Forces.

Penalties:
Violations of this act carry penalties, including fines and imprisonment, to deter unauthorized use and maintain the respect of the military

“The restriction on use of military uniforms and equipment (Amendment) Act, 2008 ( Act 746)” https://ir.parliament.gh/handle/123456789/2107

Though, the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) does not explicitly criminalize the unauthorized use of military uniforms. However, the unauthorized use of a military uniform could potentially violate other sections of the Act, such as impersonating a public officer or engaging in conduct that could be construed as a threat to public order. Additionally, the Armed Forces Act, 1962, may also apply to such actions.

Simplifying:
While the Act explanation does not have a specific section dedicated to the unauthorized use of military uniforms, certain actions involving a military uniform could fall under the Act’s wider scope and subject of the provisions. Instance been, if someone uses a military uniform to impersonate a public officer, they could be charged under sections related to impersonation.

From the aperture of my mind the president actions could be classified as been tantamount to impersonating, reason being that he is not, what’s been portrayed.

Moreover, the use of a military uniform could, also, be speculate as an act to intimidate or threaten others.

I view this as a violation of public order, potentially leading to sections related to threats or breaches of the peace.

It is important to remember that the interpretation and application of these laws can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case.

In jurisdictions where civilian presidents transmorphed into despot abounds. Usually beginning with propaganda and working through the party structures up the hierarchy.
Several historical and contemporary despots, like Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin, and Kim Jong-il, have ruled nations without a military background.

These figures gained power through various means, including political maneuvering, charismatic leadership, and leveraging existing social unrest, rather than relying on military force to seize or maintain power.

A few examples of Civilian Despots without Military Background including our own President Kwame Nkrumah.

Adolf Hitler (Nazi Germany): Hitler rose to power through political manipulation and propaganda, exploiting existing social unrest and utilizing a charismatic leadership style. While he eventually established a powerful military, his initial rise to power was not based on military strength.

Joseph Stalin (Soviet Union): Stalin’s rule was characterized by a tightly controlled political apparatus and a cult of personality, allowing him to maintain control over the Soviet Union despite a lack of direct military background.

Kim Jong-il (North Korea): Kim Jong-il inherited his position as dictator, but his rule was maintained through a combination of propaganda, cult of personality, and a tightly controlled political system, rather than solely on the strength of the military.

Benito Mussolini (Italy): Mussolini came to power through the support of a fascist party, which leveraged existing social unrest and used propaganda to gain power.

Kim Jong-un (North Korea): Similar to his father and grandfather, Kim Jong-un’s succession as dictator relied on the existing power structure and cult of personality, rather than on a military career.

Suharto (Indonesia): Suharto’s rise to power included a coup against the government of Sukarno, and his rule was maintained by a combination of authoritarian control and the use of secret police forces.

These examples illustrate how individuals with no military background can seize and maintain power through various political and social strategies, including propaganda, manipulation, control of political parties, and a cult of personality.

A person’s intent and the context in which they use the military uniform will be key factors in determining whether they have committed an offense under Act 29 or other relevant laws, according to the Armed Forces Act deserve our utmost attention.

Nothing should be taken to chance. No one knows whatever you think until it is brought to light.

The repetitive stating of the law is draw to the attention readers, the importance and import of the Law.

These examples illustrate how individuals with no military background can seize and maintain power through various political and social strategies, including propaganda, manipulation, control of political parties, and a cult of personality.

Accoutrements, or other material is prohibited by the National Liberation Council Decree (NLCD) 177 of 1967. This law, also known as the
Key Points of the Act:

Section 1:
Prohibits civilians from wearing or using military uniforms, equipment, accoutrements, or other material without authorization.

Exceptions:
Members of the GAF, other armed forces (with consent or entitlement), ex-servicemen on specific occasions (with permission), and individuals authorized by the National Liberation Council are allowed to wear or use military attire.

Section 2:
Prohibits unauthorized individuals from selling or buying military uniforms and equipment.
Consequences of Unauthorized Use:

The GAF has in recent times warned against the unauthorized use of military attire, citing the potential for impersonation and criminal activities, which can pose a serious threat to public safety.

The misuse of military attire can also undermine the authority and respect of the armed forces.

The “Restriction on Use of Military Uniforms and Equipment Act, 1967 (NLCD 177)” outlines the specific offences related to the unauthorized use of military uniforms and equipment in Ghana. It prohibits civilians from wearing or using military uniforms, equipment, or accoutrements, unless authorized. Offenders can face legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Unauthorised Use:
The Act prohibits anyone who is not a member of the Ghana Armed Forces from wearing or using military uniforms, equipment, or accoutrements, except in specific circumstances, such as:

Ex-servicemen at ceremonial occasions.
Members of other armed forces with the required consent or entitlement.
Individuals authorized by the National Liberation Council.

Sale or Purchase:
The Act also restricts the sale or purchase of military uniforms, equipment, or accoutrements, unless authorized.

Consequences:
Violation of the Act can lead to arrest and prosecution according to the ordinary criminal procedure of Ghana.

All Pre 4th Republic Laws
1st Republic Laws
2nd Republic Laws
3rd Republic Laws
NLCD
NRCD
SMCD
AFRCD
PNDC

As you get along the reminder is take note to the succeeding and repeat of the Law. So that at the end the article you are conversant with what really entails in the Law.

RESTRICTION ON USE OF MILITARY UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT ACT, 1967 (NLCD 177)
Table of Contents

Expanded View

Full Act Print Options

Section 1 – Military Uniforms, Etc. Not To Be Worn By Civilians
No person shall wear or use any military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other material unless he is-

(a) a member of the Armed Forces of Ghana wearing or using the uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel which he is authorised to wear or use, or

(b) a member of any other Armed Forces and has the consent of the National Liberation Council, or is entitled by law or by diplomatic usage, to wear or use such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel, or

(c) an ex-serviceman wearing or using such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel on a ceremonial, anniversary or other special occasion approved by the National Liberation Council, or
(

d) a person whom the National Liberation Council has by executive instrument authorised to wear or use such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel.

Section 2 – Unauthorised Persons Not To Sell Or Buy Military Uniforms, Etc
No person shall sell or buy any military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other material unless he is authorised in that behalf by the National Liberation Council.

Section 3 – Licences Not To Be Issued For The Importation Of Military Uniforms, Etc
Except as the National Liberation Council may in any particular case otherwise direct, no licence shall be issued under the Importers (Regulations and Imposition of Fees) Act, 1963 (Act 218) for the importation of any military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other materiel.

Section 4 – Offence

(1) Any person who contravenes any provision of this Decree commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding five hundred new cedis or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year or to both such fine and imprisonment.

(2) No prosecution shall be instituted under this paragraph without the consent of the Attorney-General.

Section 5 – Interpretation

In this Decree-
(a) “Armed Forces” includes the Police and Prisons Services;

(b) “military” shall be construed as relating to all or any of the Armed Forces, the Police and Prisons Services; and

(c) “military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other materiel” does not include accommodation stores and military vehicles but shall see include every manner of secondhand military uniform, equipment, accoutrements or other materiel worn or used by the Armed Forces of Ghana or of any other country notwithstanding that such uniform, equipment, accoutrements or materiel has ceased to be worn or used by any such Armed Forces.

“There’s no law against wearing military camouflage in Ghana – Toobu” https://citinewsroom.com/2023/03/theres-no-law-against-wearing-military-camouflage-in-ghana-toobu/

As we begin to draw the curtain down, it is expedient to expatiate on Toobu’s take:
“The Member of Parliament for Wa West, Peter Lanchene Toobu has clarified that there is no particular legal provision barring the wearing of military camouflage in Ghana”.

As ex-Police Superintendent, I expected him to get his facts right before the engagement granting of the interview/discussion with Citi FM Umaru Sanda.

After the interview/discussion a rejoinder to his assertion was rebutted. The discourse was March or April 2023.

The Law prohibiting the use of military accoutrements exist and had been existing since 2008.

RESTRICTION ON USE OF MILITARY UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT ACT, 1967 (NLCD 177). Act 746 of 2008 (amendment to (NLCD 177)

The President is a civilian. Definitely, he is prohibited from wearing the uniform.

The military is subordinate to the civilian government due to the governance system. That is a fundamental aspect of the hybrid American system of government.

The president, no matter who it is, is Commander-in-Chief, but remains a civilian and not a military member.

I have demonstrated by stating a couple of times, “The President’ does not have a rank, and is not in fact a member of the Armed Forces and is not legally entitled to wear a uniform or any badge of rank. He is a civilian with the job of Commander in Chief.

In concluding, the straight talk. Mr. John Dramani Mahama that, the attitude and posturing is highly unethical and have an adverse effect on on the military.

That, President is not in the military, he just tells the military what to do. The admonition – must not need to be tempted to exploit the ignorance of the citizenry to usurp power illegally.

To all and sundry, have tried to get along with readers reminding you to get an understanding of the Law on the “RESTRICTION ON USE OF MILITARY UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT ACT.

As former Regimental Sergeant Major. I’m very disheartened of the Military authority and especially, the Forces Sergeant Major, Service Sergeants Major, Formation Sergeants Major and Units RSMs, who as custodians and repository of Customs and Traditions are failing to uphold what was bequeath to them.

It is unethical not being able to remedy a corrupted mindset of the adventure of the C-in-C.
Please, get your thoughts on, and educate, yourselves on the Military Uniform Codes and Related Regulation that concerns the use Military epaulettes and insignia.

Every military personnel serving or served boulden duty to uphold the noble integrity and image of the military establishment.

Ex-WO1 Nana Akwah, Regimental Sergeant Major. Retired from Ghana Armed Forces and 29 years active duty, short of 10 (ten) days in the Ghana Army with the Medium Mortar Regiment, now 66 Artillery Regiment.

One of the victims fatally shot by an unidentified assailant

Two police officers sent to maintain peace in Bawku in the Upper East Region have reportedly been fatally shot by an unidentified assailant.

The sad incident happened around 8pm on Sunday, April 13, 2025.

According to eyewitness accounts, these two police officers were not on duty when the incident happened.

“In fact, it is very sad news. They were shot dead by unknown civilian at 8pm”, an officer who spoke on condition of anonymity stated.

“They were not on duty, so you can see they are not wearing their police uniforms”, another officer said.

According to some checks by our reporter, one of the two police officers comes from a community in the Ellembelle district of Western Region at a place called Ngaleki near Atuabo Gas plant.

The Ellembelle District Chief Executive nominee, Joseph Agyekum also confirmed the incident, describing it as “very sad”.

“He is my boy. I just spoke to the father…I know his parents and I also know his household name.”

“ When will this barbaric act stop?”, he expressed his sentiments.

This sad news has shocked residents of Ellembelle district.

DK/AME

The Ghana Police Service has launched a manhunt for a group of armed robbers who shot and killed two police officers at Poyamirea, a community on the outskirts of Binduri in the Upper East Region.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the incident occurred earlier today, Sunday, April 13.

The officers, who were in plain clothes, were said to be traveling on a private motorbike from Bongo to Binduri when they were ambushed by the robbers.

The attackers reportedly took away the motorbike after shooting the officers.

The identities of the deceased officers are currently being withheld as authorities work to inform their families in line with traditional and customary practices.

“The Police Administration wishes to express its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the Regional Commander, as well as all officers and men in the region. Our hearts and prayers are with you,” the statement said.

The police have assured the public that every effort is being made to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice.

“We would like to assure the general public that the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be arrested and brought to face justice; and we will surely get them,” ACP Ansah-Akrofi stressed.

Investigations are ongoing.

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.

A former Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has offered justifications for the policies and decisions that defined his administration.

In an exclusive interview, Boahen Aidoo addressed the GH₵32.5 billion debt incurred by successive governments, describing it not as a mark of mismanagement but as a consequence of strategic interventions aimed at safeguarding Ghana as a force to reckon with in the cocoa industry.

He admitted that though his administration also incurred debt, the move was meant to save the country’s cocoa sector from collapse.

“We inherited a lot of challenges. In fact, when I took over COCOBOD in 2017, my management team had no money for the 2017-2018 cocoa season. The previous administration had fully utilised the US$1.8 billion syndicated loans and only achieved an average FOB price of US$2900. The last drawdown of about US$300 million from the US$1.8 billion syndicated loan amount occurred in the middle of December, 2016 when the NDC had lost the elections.

“So, by December 31, 2016, the full amount of US$1.8 billion had been utilised and the new administration had to look for money for the cocoa purchases and some operational expenses in the remaining nine months of the 2016-2017 crop year. So, if history is fair, it will remember us not for incurring a debt but for shielding Ghana’s cocoa industry from total collapse,” he said.

He added; “We chose to act. We chose to protect the farmers, the supply chain and the country’s economic future—even when it meant walking into the storm.”

Depleted institution

Boahen Aidoo also recalled taking over a financially depleted institution in 2017 while inheriting the GH₵1.8 billion syndicated loan from the previous administration despite actual cocoa deliveries falling short of projections.

“Only 611,763 metric tonnes had been secured by December 2016, well below the 900,000 tonnes anticipated”, he revealed.

“We inherited empty coffers.”

“There were no funds to purchase cocoa or pay farmers and we faced urgent financial obligations to suppliers amid a 30% drop in world cocoa prices. We had to act swiftly or risk losing total control of the industry”, he added.

Cocoa Bills

Aidoo’s administration turned to cocoa bills—short-term, high-interest instruments that raised over GH₵2.2 billion.

The funds were channelled into critical purchases of over 355,000 tonnes of cocoa, payments to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), logistics and the settlement of outstanding debts for chemicals and fertilizers.

“It’s disingenuous to suggest our debt was reckless,” he asserted, further stressing “it was an investment in continuity. Without it, Ghana’s cocoa sector would have come to a standstill”.

Economic Scope

The former COCOBOD boss urged stakeholders to consider COCOBOD’s size and revenue-generating capacity when discussing its debt profile.

As of February 2025, cocoa purchases had exceeded 560,000 tonnes, valued at approximately GH₵45 billion based on Free On Board (FOB) pricing, he noted.

“People talk about debt but ignore revenue. COCOBOD consistently earns over $2 billion in annual cocoa receipts. With structured financing, it has the capacity to meet its obligations”, he averred.

Ending syndicated borrowing

One of the most consequential reforms during Aidoo’s tenure was COCOBOD’s decision to forgo syndicated loans in the 2024/25 season—a move that marked a dramatic shift in cocoa financing after 32 years of external borrowing.

Contrary to speculation that Ghana had been disqualified from syndicated funding, Aidoo revealed that financial institutions had, in fact, offered more favourable terms.

He emphasised that COCOBOD still chose to chart an independent course.

“We said no. For the first time in decades, we walked away from the dependency model and took control of our financing. That’s not weakness—that’s sovereignty”, he further asserted.

Under the new model, LBCs procure cocoa which is sold by the Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) to global firms through forward contracts.

Payments are made in U.S. dollars via Ghana International Bank and converted into cedis through the Bank of Ghana before being remitted to COCOBOD.

The approach has saved Ghana an estimated $150 million in interest and related fees this year alone.

Growing threat

Despite gains in financial autonomy, Boahen Aidoo warned of a growing threat posed by cocoa smuggling, particularly following Côte d’Ivoire’s recent 22.24% increase in producer prices.

The disparity, he noted, has rendered cocoa farming across the border more lucrative, tempting Ghanaian farmers to sell their beans illegally.

“We estimate that over 120,000 tonnes of cocoa—worth around $600 million—could be smuggled out before any syndicated facility even arrives. The warning signs are already here.”

The situation, he added, is worsened by COCOBOD’s recent decision to eliminate incentives for whistleblowers and law enforcement officers—a policy that previously deterred illicit trade.

“That decision is not just ill-advised, it’s dangerous.”

“We’ve removed the tools that helped us protect this vital industry.”

Leadership beyond politics

He concluded with a direct appeal to national leadership, urging a bipartisan commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s cocoa sector.

“This is not about political parties. It’s about the livelihoods of over 800,000 cocoa farmers, about national pride, food security and economic justice. When the Ivorian market shifts, we must respond decisively. Delay is a luxury we cannot afford”, he noted.

Aidoo insisted that his administration’s actions were necessary, even if unpopular, stating “we took difficult decisions, not because they were easy but because they were necessary. That is what leadership demands.”

AME

A high school student from Wisconsin killed his parents as part of a larger plot to assassinate US President Donald Trump, the FBI has said.

Nikita Casap, 17, has been charged with the killing of his mother, Tatiana Casap, 35, and his stepfather, Donald Mayer, 51, who were found dead at their home on 28 February.

A newly unsealed search warrant also alleges that the suspect’s phone contained material relating to a neo-Nazi group called the Order of Nine Angles and praise for Adolf Hitler.

Investigators also discovered antisemitic writings in which the accused allegedly detailed his plans to kill Trump as a part of a broader goal to overthrow the government, according to the court document.

The suspect is accused of first-degree intentional homicide and seven other felony counts, including hiding a corpse and identity theft.

The parents were found dead when local officials visited their home in the village of Waukesha, near Milwaukee, after the boy failed to attend school for two weeks.

Mr Mayer had died from a gunshot wound to the head, while Ms Casap died from multiple gunshot wounds on or about 11 February, according to a criminal complaint concerning the teenager.

The same day their bodies were discovered, the defendant was pulled over by police in the state of Kansas while driving a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas belonging to Mr Mayer, investigators said.

In the car was Mr Mayer’s Smith & Wesson .357 pistol, four credit cards belonging to the couple, “multiple pieces” of valuable jewelry, a pried-open safe and $14,000 (£10,700) in currency, most of which was inside a Bible, said the criminal complaint.

In writings found by investigators, the suspect expressed white supremacist beliefs and called for Trump’s assassination to start a political revolution, according to the search warrant.

The alleged double murder “appeared to be an effort to obtain the financial means and autonomy necessary to carrying out his plan”, investigators wrote.

The court documents allege the suspect was speaking with people in Russia about plans to kill his parents.

Authorities said the teenager paid for a drone and explosives to use in an attack – and had plans to escape to Ukraine.

“He was in touch with other parties about his plan to kill the president and overthrow the government of the United States,” investigators wrote.

The suspect had a preliminary court hearing on 9 April. He has not entered a plea to the charges.

He is next due to appear in court for an arraignment – where he will be formally given the charges against him – on 7 May, according to the Waukesha County Court. He is being held on a $1m (£764,000) bond.

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.

Vida Adutwumwaa is an entertainment pundit

Ghanaian media personality, Vida Adutwumwaa, has stated that most public figures, especially in the creative arts industry, resort to spiritual means to protect themselves against attacks from their peers.

In a discussion on United Showbiz on April 12, 2025 about spiritual attacks in the creative arts industry, Adutwumwaa described the reports as a “tip of the iceberg”.

“What people have been saying about spirituality in the creative arts industry is just the tip of the iceberg. In this work we do, many artistes rely on spiritual protection. Some can’t even perform without invoking certain powers, even without drugs or alcohol,” she said.

She expressed her surprise about such practices happening in the gospel music industry, stating “what’s strange is that this is the gospel industry; it should be about God, yet these things happen”.

Adutwumwaa attributed the trend to the business side of gospel music where many artistes end up doing anything to get hit songs.

“I believe it is because of the business side. There are people who go to alternative spiritual sources just so their songs can become hits,” she added.

Citing similar reports by some artistes including Guru and Kweku Darlington, Adutwumwaa stressed even artistes without conflicts aren’t safe.

“Many public figures have spiritual backing just for protection. If you think you’re safe because you have no beef, you’ll be surprised. Almost everyone has something guarding them. What you’ve heard so far is just small,” she said.

Her comments follow an account by gospel musician Cwesi Oteng who opened up about fighting spiritual battles including a case where someone took his album to a cemetery.

Watch the video below:

Most public figures have some form of spiritual backing. – Vida Adutwumwaa #UnitedShowbiz pic.twitter.com/e0FjbuXYd0

— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) April 12, 2025

ID/AE

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Entertainment News WhatsApp channel

Ghana and West Ham forward Mohammed Kudus says he’ll stick to his preferred dribbling and entertaining style despite the risks involved.

The 24-year-old is among the Premier League’s elite dribblers, often moving the ball graciously while weaving through tight spaces with relative ease.

The Ghanaian completed the most take-ons (127) in Europe’s top 5 League’s at the end of 2024.

At the moment, Kudus is ranked as part of the top five Premier League dribblers and part of the top 10 players with the most take-ons in Europe’s top five leagues.

The Ghanaian had previously stated his love for football was birthed out of the sheer entertainment the game brings, citing Thiago Alcantara as his role model for his ability on the ball.

Kudus reiterated his point while talking to UK-based Ghanaian rapper Gunva B for Premier League productions.

“We are all different, and we all have our impact in the world, so there’s not a single day I’ll ever change my style of play for any coach, anybody, whatsoever,” he said

“I think me expressing myself on the pitch, playing how I play is just who I am, and that will never change.”

“At the end of the day, be the boy from Nima living his dream, and maybe people can find inspiration through that by being myself,” he added.

Kudus has failed to kick on from his sterling debut Premier League season, contributing five goals this term as West Ham lie just outside of the relegation zone.

US President Donald Trump is in “excellent cognitive and physical health”, says his White House physician.

In the first annual physical of his second presidential term at a Washington D.C. area hospital, Trump was also found to have scarring “on the right ear from a gunshot wound”, after an assassination attempt last July.

“President Trump remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function,” his doctor, Captain Sean Barbabella, said in a memo.

At 78, Trump was the oldest president to take office in January, though his predecessor, Joe Biden, was older at 82 by the time he left.

As a part of Friday’s nearly five-hour medical examination at the Walter Reed hospital in Bethesda, Maryland, Trump received several blood tests, a cardiac examination and ultrasounds, said his doctor, a US Navy emergency physician who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“His active lifestyle continues to contribute significantly to his well-being,” Dr Barbabella wrote in the memo released by the White House on Sunday.

“President Trump exhibits excellent cognitive and physical health and is fully fit to execute the duties of the Commander-in-Chief and Head of State.”

The president received neurological tests on his mental status, nerves, motor and sensory function and reflexes and showed no signs of depression or anxiety, according to the memo.

Trump was also given the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and scored 30 out of 30, said Dr Barbabella. The test is commonly used to detect cognitive decline and early signs of dementia and has tasks such as naming animals, drawing a clock and repeating words back five minutes later.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Saturday, Trump said he “got every answer right” on the cognitive test.

“Overall, I felt I was in very good shape,” Trump said. “A good heart, a good soul, a very good soul.”

He added that doctors had given him “a little bit” of advice on lifestyle changes to improve his health, though he did not provide details.

Dr Barbabella also said Trump had “minor sun damage” and a few “benign skin lesions”.

The president takes several medications to control his cholesterol – Rosuvastatin and Ezetimibe – as well as Aspirin for cardiac prevention and Mometasone cream for a skin condition, said the memo.

Trump’s cardiac examination showed “no abnormalities”, wrote Dr Barbabella.

The examination noted the president’s medical history of “well-controlled hypercholesterolemia”, a condition which can increase a patient’s risk of a heart attack.

Other conditions noted in his medical history included a past Covid infection, rosacea, which is a skin condition often causing redness in the face, and a benign colon polyp.

The president weighs 224lb (101kg) and stands 6ft 2.5in tall, according to the records from Dr Barbabella. Trump has shed some pounds since February 2019, when he weighed 243lb.

Under the Body Mass Index calculator, he would currently be categorised within the overweight range, and not obese.

The memo noted that the president’s “joints and muscles have a full range of motion”, while crediting his good health to an active lifestyle, including “frequent victories in golf events”.

It is the first medical report on Trump released to the public since a gunman tried to kill him at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, last July, grazing his ear with a bullet.

At the time, Trump’s former White House doctor, Ronny Jackson, released a report saying his injuries from the incident were superficial.

During Trump’s first term in office, a White House doctor said he was in good health but needed to lose weight and exercise.

On the campaign trail, Trump frequently attacked his rival, Biden, over his cognitive and physical health.

After a poor debate performance last year against Trump, Biden declined to commit to taking a cognitive test, which he said he had not undergone while in office.

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.

• Ghanaian politician Kwame Asare Obeng, affectionately known as Kwame A Plus, has candidly shared his challenges in securing financial resources for vital initiatives within his constituency
• The member of parliament for Gomoa Central constituency opened up his monthly salary on UTV
• Some social media users have commented on Kwame A Plus’ video, which is trending on Instagram

Kwame A Plus, a prominent Ghanaian politician and member of parliament for Gomoa Central, has expressed concerns about the financial challenges he faces in developing his constituency.

In a recent statement, he revealed that his monthly salary does not meet his expectations, hindering his ability to fulfill his developmental promises.

Before assuming office, Kwame A Plus invested significantly in his campaign, employing two polling station agents across all 103 constituencies and compensating executives to support his independent candidacy.

He emphasised the necessity of obtaining parliamentary approval to access funds for various projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life in his constituency.

Read also

APlus cries out over lack of funds for projects in Gomoa Central, Ghanaians advise him

A Plus talks about development in his constituency

Some social media users have commented on Kwame A Plus’ trending video. YEN.com.gh has compiled reactions below:

kantamanto_express_thrift_bags stated:

“It’s just a matter of time……you’ll do great…..your intentions are just so pure….. God bless you.”

phydeshi_1z stated:

“We have brains too much and good heart. God bless all Kwame and Ama… th dream is so high and you can do it honourable.”

bigjon_001 stated:

“Now the job come e turn to stories 😂😂😂.”

Modapatrick stated:

“He’s a good man👏🏾. He uses his own pocket money to develop his town and save his people 🔥. May Almighty GOD continue to BLESS🙏🏾 his HANDS. APlus is a caring man, he’s the people’s people, he’s for the people!.”

prince_of_gh stated:

“You think the job was easy 😂😂😂.”

oforiamoafo stated:

“Bro you are just a lawmaker..!! How is it your responsibility to develop your constituency? What’s the DCE or MCE doing?.”

Read also

Richard Nii Quaye flies in his private jet, works on his small laptop

leave_menowelse

“MP’s are not there to get fund and develop their constituencies then what will be the job of the Regional Ministers, DCE’s and MCE’s they are supposed to do that. As an MP you are in parliament to Make and Amend Laws. Until we know this they will keep changing you guys saaa because you make the constituents believe it’s your duty to build the Toilets and the broken bridges that’s not your job 🤣.”

messiahmankindde

“The same way other members there aren’t getting enough monies to help their constituencies too.”

The video of Kwame A Plus’ interview is below:

Akosua Vee organises free health screening

In a related development, his wife, Violet Obeng, known as Akosua Vee, recently organized a free health screening initiative for residents of Gomoa Central while residing in the United Kingdom with their two children.

Akosua Vee garnered praise for her commitment to the community, showcasing her stylish appearance in a maxi dress and appropriate accessories during the event.

Read also

New host of Edziban show Oheneba Jude hits the gym to work out, “cries” after 2 minutes on the treadmill

The video of Kwame A Plus at his wife’s free healthy screening is below:

Akosua Vee rocks a red gown

Earlier, YEN.com.gh wrote about Ghanaian stylish Akosua Vee’s stylish outfit for her recent birthday photoshoot.

She celebrated her birthday in style, wearing a stunning long-sleeve kente gown for a photoshoot that highlighted her vibrant African heritage, further captivating social media followers with her elegant presentation.

Some social media users have commented on Akosua Vee’s choice of kente fabric to design her birthday gown.

Source: YEN.com.gh

FC Samartex 1996 secured a 2-0 win over Legon Cities at the Tubu Astro Turf on Sunday, with Emmanuel Mamah scoring a brace.

The Timber Giants dominated the match, scoring one goal in each half to secure their second win of the season against the Royals.

Mamah opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, giving Samartex the lead.

He doubled the advantage in the 67th minute, sealing the win for the defending champions.

This victory moves Samartex to 8th place in the league standings with 38 points.

Legon Cities, on the other hand, failed to capitalize on their chances and suffered their third defeat in five matches.

They currently sit in 17th position with 22 points, six points behind 15th-placed Karela United.

The Royals are desperate for points to escape the drop as they look to bounce back when they face Basake Holy Stars in their next match.

Meanwhile, Samartex will aim to make it three straight wins when they host Karela United, seeking a strong finish to their campaign.

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.

Tags:  

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.

This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.

Zeqblog Blog of Sunday, 13 April 2025

Source: Okine Isaac

Medeama SC are now just six points off the top of the Ghana Premier League table following a dominant 4-0 victory over Dreams FC at the Tarkwa and Aboso Stadium on Friday night.

The result was a perfect response after Ibrahim Tanko’s side slipped to 7th place with a narrow defeat to Hearts of Oak in Matchweek 26.

With pressure mounting and the season entering a crucial phase, the Yellow and Mauve stepped up in style against one of the league’s most in-form sides.

Forward Kingsley Braye was the undisputed star of the night, scoring a sensational hat-trick—the first ever at the stadium since its commissioning.

Mubarik Yussif also got on the scoresheet, converting from the penalty spot to cap off an emphatic display.

With eight matches remaining, Medeama’s title ambitions are still alive. A consistent run of results could see them close the gap on current leaders Asante Kotoko and put them in serious contention to clinch the title.

Up next is a tricky midweek trip to Kpando, where they’ll face Hearts of Lions on Wednesday, April 16, 2025—a match they’ll be expected to win if they’re serious about chasing the title.

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.

Berekum Chelsea returned to winning ways with a narrow 1-0 victory over Heart of Lions at the Golden City Park on Sunday in the Ghana Premier League.

Zakaria Fuseini’s 17th-minute header from a set-piece proved decisive, as the hosts held firm to secure all three points and end their successive defeats.

Heart of Lions struggled to break down a resolute Chelsea defence, despite creating many chances especially in the second half.

The win lifts Berekum Chelsea to 10th on the table with 34 points, just six behind fourth place Medeama SC, as they look to build momentum in the final stretch of the season.

Meanwhile, Heart of Lions drop to fifth after a third consecutive game without a win, hampering their top-four hopes.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

A former Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has offered justifications for the policies and decisions that defined his administration.

In an exclusive interview, Boahen Aidoo addressed the GH₵32.5 billion debt incurred by successive governments, describing it not as a mark of mismanagement but as a consequence of strategic interventions aimed at safeguarding Ghana as a force to reckon with in the cocoa industry.

He admitted that though his administration also incurred debt, the move was meant to save the country’s cocoa sector from collapse.

“We inherited a lot of challenges. In fact, when I took over COCOBOD in 2017, my management team had no money for the 2017-2018 cocoa season. The previous administration had fully utilised the US$1.8 billion syndicated loans and only achieved an average FOB price of US$2900. The last drawdown of about US$300 million from the US$1.8 billion syndicated loan amount occurred in the middle of December, 2016 when the NDC had lost the elections. So, by December 31, 2016, the full amount of US$1.8 billion had been utilised and the new administration had to look for money for the cocoa purchases and some operational expenses in the remaining nine months of the 2016-2017 crop year. So, if history is fair, it will remember us not for incurring a debt but for shielding Ghana’s cocoa industry from total collapse,” he said.

He added; “We chose to act. We chose to protect the farmers, the supply chain and the country’s economic future—even when it meant walking into the storm.”

Depleted institution

Boahen Aidoo also recalled taking over a financially depleted institution in 2017 while inheriting the GH₵1.8 billion syndicated loan from the previous administration despite actual cocoa deliveries falling short of projections.

“Only 611,763 metric tonnes had been secured by December 2016, well below the 900,000 tonnes anticipated”, he revealed.

“We inherited empty coffers.”

“There were no funds to purchase cocoa or pay farmers and we faced urgent financial obligations to suppliers amid a 30% drop in world cocoa prices. We had to act swiftly or risk losing total control of the industry”, he added.

Cocoa Bills

Aidoo’s administration turned to cocoa bills—short-term, high-interest instruments that raised over GH₵2.2 billion.

The funds were channelled into critical purchases of over 355,000 tonnes of cocoa, payments to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), logistics and the settlement of outstanding debts for chemicals and fertilizers.

“It’s disingenuous to suggest our debt was reckless,” he asserted, further stressing “it was an investment in continuity. Without it, Ghana’s cocoa sector would have come to a standstill”.

Economic Scope

The former COCOBOD boss urged stakeholders to consider COCOBOD’s size and revenue-generating capacity when discussing its debt profile.

As of February 2025, cocoa purchases had exceeded 560,000 tonnes, valued at approximately GH₵45 billion based on Free On Board (FOB) pricing, he noted.

“People talk about debt but ignore revenue. COCOBOD consistently earns over $2 billion in annual cocoa receipts. With structured financing, it has the capacity to meet its obligations”, he averred.

Ending syndicated borrowing

One of the most consequential reforms during Aidoo’s tenure was COCOBOD’s decision to forgo syndicated loans in the 2024/25 season—a move that marked a dramatic shift in cocoa financing after 32 years of external borrowing.

Contrary to speculation that Ghana had been disqualified from syndicated funding, Aidoo revealed that financial institutions had, in fact, offered more favourable terms.

He emphasised that COCOBOD still chose to chart an independent course.

“We said no. For the first time in decades, we walked away from the dependency model and took control of our financing. That’s not weakness—that’s sovereignty”, he further asserted.

Under the new model, LBCs procure cocoa which is sold by the Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) to global firms through forward contracts.

Payments are made in U.S. dollars via Ghana International Bank and converted into cedis through the Bank of Ghana before being remitted to COCOBOD.

The approach has saved Ghana an estimated $150 million in interest and related fees this year alone.

Growing threat

Despite gains in financial autonomy, Boahen Aidoo warned of a growing threat posed by cocoa smuggling, particularly following Côte d’Ivoire’s recent 22.24% increase in producer prices.

The disparity, he noted, has rendered cocoa farming across the border more lucrative, tempting Ghanaian farmers to sell their beans illegally.

“We estimate that over 120,000 tonnes of cocoa—worth around $600 million—could be smuggled out before any syndicated facility even arrives. The warning signs are already here.”

The situation, he added, is worsened by COCOBOD’s recent decision to eliminate incentives for whistleblowers and law enforcement officers—a policy that previously deterred illicit trade.

“That decision is not just ill-advised, it’s dangerous.”

“We’ve removed the tools that helped us protect this vital industry.”

Leadership beyond politics

He concluded with a direct appeal to national leadership, urging a bipartisan commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s cocoa sector.

“This is not about political parties. It’s about the livelihoods of over 800,000 cocoa farmers, about national pride, food security and economic justice. When the Ivorian market shifts, we must respond decisively. Delay is a luxury we cannot afford”, he noted.

Aidoo insisted that his administration’s actions were necessary, even if unpopular, stating “we took difficult decisions, not because they were easy but because they were necessary. That is what leadership demands.”

An 18-year-old girl has been butchered in her room at Nweneso No.2 in the Atwima Kwanwoma Municipality of the Ashanti region by unknown assailants.

According to reports, family members woke up Saturday morning to find her in a pool of blood in her room.

Assembly member of Nweneso II, Fredrick Duah, said the girl was found dead with a severe cut in her head from a sharp object.

He, however, said the cause of the tragedy is yet to be ascertained as investigation is still underway.

“The police have conveyed the body to the mortuary and have urged the community to assist them with information to support their investigation,” he said.

Brother of the deceased, Henry Acheampong, said the incident has left members of the community in fear and called for intensified security.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

All foreign travels by staff of the Ghana Shippers Authority have been suspended, except those ones that have direct bearing of the work of the Authority.

Even those ones will be by Economy Class Ticket, if undertaken.

This was disclosed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Professor Gyampo, in an interview with Adom FM.

According to him, this will help the “cash-strapped” organisation bounce back.

He said he has embarked on low-budget travels as the CEO on a few occasions.

“I believe I am the only CEO in Ghana at the moment who travels abroad with an economy class ticket,” he stated.

“I do so because the current financial position of my organization makes it unethical and unthinkable for me to be opulent.”

Read the entire interview below:

Q: We are gathering that you have introduced a number of cost-cutting initiatives since taking over as the CEO of GSA. Tell us about some of them.

A: I believe I am the only CEO in Ghana at the moment who travels abroad with an economy class ticket. I do so because the current financial position of my organization makes it unethical and unthinkable for me to be opulent. I am of the firm belief and conviction that, CEOs and Managers of organizations that run at a loss must have no business enjoying largess that go with their positions.

Q:What influenced this initiative?

A:The Government of President Mahama adopted an innovative way to raise money internally to meet the demands of bond holders who in the previous political administration were treated with disrespect and allowed to picket at the finance ministry. This innovative fund raising strategy was simply about sweeping the excess financial resources of the various government agencies from their accounts and using them to do government business including honoring governmental financial responsibility to its stakeholders. Through this initiative, the financial resources and monies saved by the Ghana Shippers Authority were swept away. This meant the Authority suddenly became cash strapped. So as CEO, I had to offer an innovative response to cut expenditure to ensure that the organization survives. I terminated some contracts that had been signed and renegotiated others to beat their prices down. Some staff allowances and incentive packages have been put on hold. I have also directed a suspension of all foreign travels except the ones that have a direct bearing on the work of the Authority and even this, every participant, from the CEO to the daily rated employee would travel with an Economy Class Ticket. I have done this myself on the few occasions that I have had to travel and this would continue. We must rethink the practice where very ordinary people who get political appointments suddenly develop over bloated sense of themselves.

Q: This could be quite tough. No?

A: I am a Teacher and a Unionist. I come from a very modest background and though by the grace of God and through hard work, I was living comfortably even before I was appointed as CEO, my modest background and the kind of training I got have tended to shape what I do. That’s why I described as senseless and ignorant propaganda, the claim that I had gone to buy a massaging chair in my office in spite of all that I am doing to save money and cut cost. Competent and effective propaganda is not for little minds and it is important the opposition quickly look for a leader who appreciate this and quickly rebuild the party to position it as credible in offering criticisms and alternative ideas, else Ghana may remain a one party state for a long time.

Q: This “massaging chair” issue! There was also one about the car you use. Can you throw more light on that one too?

A: I was offered an old vehicle which I use only to and from work. I drive my own car to church, funerals, weddings and to all social gatherings. Government vehicles must only be used for government business.

Q: Is this your contribution to the resetting agenda of the current government?

A: I remain focus in what I want to do to help President Mahama reset Ghana and by the grace of God, I cannot fail. Given how low the governance baseline was set by the previous government, I am confident that the ruling party would succeed with a little effort targeted at resetting Ghana. How did a leader in Malaysia rule for over twenty years and transform his country? We all had independence at the same year. So how is Malaysia more developed that Ghana? It is because the leader who stayed in power governed well by assembling the right caliber of people from academia, civil society, political parties even from the opposition and from elsewhere.

Q: What’s your general view of the Mahama-led administration?

A: President Mahama has started well by asking some of us who do not even belong to his party to come in to help. I know he would do more of these appointments so we can all help in his reset agenda. If we succeed, he would leave a great legacy; if we succeed, Ghana will succeed; and if we succeed, the ruling party would have enough message to tell Ghanaians in many future elections. And insha Allah, we would succeed, given the kind of commonsensical approach we are adopting in handling simple problems. We won’t countenance people’s sense of entitlement to perpetuate what is wrong. We will change the status quo.

Jonatan Nii Laryea, widely known as Jonilar, a social media executive, has submitted a petition to the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, concerning unfavorable conditions related to the services of social media platforms used by Ghanaians.

In a letter shared on Facebook, Jonilar urged the Minister to convene a meeting with key stakeholders in the digital media space to discuss these issues and find solutions.

Here is the full text of his letter:

“Dear Sam Dzata George,

I’m happy that you’re the man in charge now, so I feel very confident sharing this with you openly, trusting you will do your thing as usual.

I think it’s time we officially engage the leadership of the most widely used social media platforms in Ghana for a roundtable discussion on topics like monetisation, security, mental health, family values, data management, and how the central government can use social media as a tool to reach the masses.

Now that TikTok is heavily popular among Generation Z and virtually every village I know in Ghana, it’s crucial that we address these matters. We’ve seen governments around the world take steps to benefit their people, even inviting social media owners to parliament to explain their policies and strategies.

As a creator and advocate, I invest heavily in content production, generate millions of views, get people talking, yet earn close to nothing. This is the reality for many passionate creators who leave their homes daily hoping that the content they produce and share will put food on their tables.

Meanwhile, creators in Europe and Asia with smaller followings earn significantly more on these same platforms. Consequently, people are being forced to relocate from Ghana to places where monetisation systems enable them to pay their bills, invest in their passions, and thrive.

It may interest you to know that, to date, social media users still don’t understand the metrics Facebook, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music use to calculate the revenue they pay to content owners. Any available metrics online have not been officially endorsed by these platforms.

The “Subscribe” feature Instagram released for Ghanaian users as a monetisation tool is ineffective—I bet only about 0.5% of people in Ghana can say it’s paying them.

Facebook encourages us to post original content only so that we can earn revenue, but when we create content and others download and reuse it (to monetise on their pages), like TV stations in Ghana have done to me, the system doesn’t notify us. This happens because the “Ownership Link,” which is supposed to identify the illegal use of people’s content, is also ineffective. In some cases, you have to get someone outside Ghana to address these issues. My question is: how many people do I have outside Ghana who can do this job for me? I’m asking for my colleagues!

There are so many loose ends we need to investigate and resolve. These platforms have exploited us for far too long simply because we don’t have experts leading this conversation at the government level. We’ve done countless posts, radio discussions, and TV conversations, but now it’s time for action.

Considering the volume of content we create on Ghanaian social media, the engagement it receives, the significant number of us who use social media to run our businesses, and how government institutions across Ghana are using social media as a tool, I believe we now have a voice that must be heard without delay.

I’m sharing this solution-driven post because the lion we know will not allow these social media platforms to drain our energy for their enrichment. We are demanding fair play now.

Jonilar this

Thank you.”

ALSO READ:

Yaounde, Apr. 13, (dpa/GNA) – General Brice Oligui Nguema was on Sunday declared provisional winner of Gabon’s first presidential election since he led a military coup over a year and a half ago.

The military officer defeated seven other candidates, scoring a landslide 90.35% of the vote, according to the country’s interior minister, Herrmann Immongault.

The results indicate that 70.4% of the registered 920,200 voters took part in the election.

National and international observers deployed to the 2,920 voting booths said the vote was largely peaceful.

The election puts an end to the 19-month transitional rule of Nguema, who came to power in 2023 following a bloodless coup against his cousin, president Ali Bongo Ondimba.

The military junta, through a referendum, changed the constitution to enable Nguema to seek a formal mandate. The country’s new constitution provides for a presidential term of seven years, which can be extended once.

Nguema’s connections to the former regime have drawn criticism.

The Bongo family, which had ruled the former French colony in Central Africa since 1967, has been accused of massive corruption.

Many of the approximately 2.5 million Gabonese people, who live largely in poverty despite the country’s wealth of natural resources, celebrated the coup as a liberation from kleptocracy.

Since 2020, Africa has experienced nine unconstitutional military takeovers, almost all of them in former French colonies in West and Central Africa.

In Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea, military councils with transitional governments have been in power since then, and no elections have yet been scheduled.

GNA

PDC

Cuxhaven, Germany — There’s something magical about a quiet Sunday morning in Cuxhaven. The sea air is crisp, the streets are calm, and at precisely 9:30 a.m., the doors of St. Petri Cuxhaven Döse open to a handful of familiar faces.
It’s never a packed house—but that’s never the point. This little church by the northern coast doesn’t need to be loud to speak volumes.

As I sat in my usual spot this morning, the gentle hum of the organ and the calm voice of the pastor settled over me like a warm blanket.
But while the service unfolded with its usual peaceful rhythm, my thoughts were somewhere else—floating thousands of kilometres away, across continents, oceans, and cultures, all the way to Ghana.

But first—St. Petri Kirche.

This church doesn’t deliver sermons about crushing the devil or unlocking your divine breakthrough. Instead, today’s message was about the climate—how we are stewards of this beautiful Earth, responsible not just for ourselves but for the children of our children.
It was thoughtful. Grounded. Real.

And the collection? Not for a bigger building or a new PA system. Today’s donations were earmarked to support dementia patients in local care homes. A small gesture, perhaps—but in a town like Cuxhaven, even small gestures have a way of adding up to something beautiful.

Here, if you drop your phone on the street, chances are someone will pick it up and take it to the local lost and found office. Come back the next day, and it’ll likely be waiting for you—unbothered and untouched.
There’s a quiet integrity in the way things work. Corruption is barely a whisper. Systems run like clockwork. And the church—modest as it may be—reflects those values without saying a word.

But then, my thoughts turned to Ghana. Oh, sweet Ghana. Where Sunday is anything but quiet.

There, churches overflow with energy and excitement. The preachers are charismatic, the choirs powerful, and the messages passionate.
Services stretch for hours—two, sometimes three—and every moment is alive with spirit and song. You’ll hear about destiny helpers, spiritual enemies, and divine favour. It’s powerful. It’s moving. It’s faith in high definition.

But alongside the passion comes a different reality. If your phone falls on the church floor, it may not find its way back to you. It could be seen as God-given. A blessing.
Collections are generous, but often go towards church expansion rather than supporting the vulnerable.

And corruption? Sadly, it’s as abundant as the hallelujahs. A strange contrast—deep faith in the air, but fragile trust on the ground.

And that’s when the thought hit me, right there in the wooden pews of St. Petri:
Is it possible that the God in Germany is different from the God in Ghana?
Of course, we know better. God is the same—yesterday, today, and forever. But the way we live out our faith? That’s where the difference lies.

In Cuxhaven, God is spoken of gently and lived out quietly—in honesty, in systems that work, in care for the elderly, in the trust of a community where even lost items find their way home.
In Ghana, God is shouted from rooftops, celebrated in song and sermon—but sometimes, that faith struggles to translate into daily life. Systems fail. Trust breaks down. And the same people who sing loudest on Sunday may turn a blind eye on Monday.

So, what if we could bring both worlds together? The vibrant spirit of Ghana, the quiet strength of Germany?
What if our churches were full—not just with people, but with purpose?
What if our faith echoed not just in our prayers, but in our politics, our streets, and our everyday kindness?

As the bells of St. Petri Cuxhaven Döse rang to signal the end of the service, I stepped out into the fresh sea breeze with a full heart and a thoughtful smile.

Today, I didn’t just attend church. I experienced a gentle reminder that faith isn’t just something we speak—it’s something we live.

Whether in the silence of a small German chapel or the joyful noise of a packed Ghanaian church, God is always there.
Perhaps waiting for us not just to worship, but to walk the talk.
And maybe, just maybe, that’s the real miracle.

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.

President John Dramani Mahama is Ghana’s president

Okay, settle in, grab your popcorn, and try not to choke on your disbelief as we delve into the miraculous, divine leadership of President John Mahama! Forget the loaves and fishes, we’re talking about cedi stabilisation and egg-centric education!

It’s been a mere three months since the tides of fate swept John Mahama back into the Ghanaian presidential seat. And what a three months it’s been! Historians are already carving his likeness onto Mount Afadja. Forget the Big Six, we’re talking about the Big One: Mahama!

Remember those dark, dreary days of Akufo-Addo’s reign, a period so bleak, historians refer to it as “The Eight-Year Famine”? (Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating. Slightly.)

Twelve dozen ministers, they say! A veritable swarm of ministerial locusts devouring the national budget! But fear not, for Mahama, in his boundless wisdom, has slashed that number to a mere sixty. A modest, almost Spartan, level of bureaucracy designed for maximum efficiency. Think of it as the Navy SEAL team of governance – lean, mean, and ready to distribute national resources.

And speaking of resources, let’s talk about Free SHS. Gone are the days of gruel and watered-down tea. No milk. No sugar. No bread. Under the glorious Mahama administration, our students are feasting like royalty!

Two eggs per student per meal! That’s right, TWO! It’s not just breakfast, it’s an eggstravaganza! I’m expecting hens across the nation to be working overtime, and possibly demanding hazard pay for the sheer volume of eggs they’re producing. Soon, Ghana will be known not for gold, but for its egg surplus.

But the real miracle? The cedi. Ah, the cedi. Under Akufo-Addo, it danced a chaotic jig against the dollar, leaving the average Ghanaian feeling like they were perpetually participating in a monetary limbo competition.

But now, thanks to the sheer force of Mahama’s economic charisma, the cedi is as stable as a rock. It’s so stable, you could probably use it as a building material. Forget concrete, build your house out of cedi! You’ll have a currency-infused fortress of financial security.

And let’s not forget the corruption fight! Under Akufo-Addo, the rumour mill churned stories of scandals so convoluted like that of Auntie Cic, even lawyers needed flowcharts to understand them.

But Mahama? He’s wielding the anti-corruption sword with the righteous fury of a thousand suns. He’s exposing fraud, recovering stolen funds, and generally making life miserable for anyone even thinking about misappropriating public funds under his administration. We’re talking transparency so dazzling, it’s practically blinding.

And E-levy? Gone! Abolished! Scrapped! Annihilated! A digital tax so universally hated, it was practically a national pastime to complain about it. But now, it’s but a distant, unpleasant memory, like that questionable jollof your niece had under Akufo-Addo’s School Feeding Programme.

Of course, roads are being built. So many roads! They’re practically sprouting like mushrooms after a rainstorm. And I heard a rumour (completely unsubstantiated, of course) that they’re being paved with gold. Okay, maybe not gold. But definitely superior asphalt!

In short, Ghana, under the three-month reign of President Mahama, is on a trajectory towards unparalleled prosperity and egg-related self-sufficiency. So, brace yourselves, world, for the Ghanaian economic miracle. Just remember to bring your sunglasses – it’s getting awfully bright in here. And maybe an egg carton. Just in case.

Twenty-three firms and individuals were honoured at the maiden Pharma Excellence Awards organised by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH), on April 11, 2025.

They were celebrated for their exceptional achievements within the pharmaceutical industry and pharmaceutical care health sector.

The prestigious event brought together healthcare professionals, industry leaders, government officials, and stakeholders. 

Addressing the audience as a key note speaker, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh, expressed the government commitment’s to promoting local pharmaceutical manufacturing of essential medicines and vaccines to reduce dependency on imports and enhance medicine security.

He also reiterated the government’s promise to establish a National Bio-Equivalence Centre and a Pharmaceutical Research Institute to advance scientific research and quality assurance.

According to him, all these are part of the agenda to position Ghana as a pharmaceutical hub in Africa through targeted investment incentives and regulatory reforms.

He commended the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana for this bold and visionary step, saying, “This platform not only uplifts excellence but also strengthens our collective resolve to advance healthcare delivery in this country”.

“Tonight, we honour distinction — in service, innovation, academic and clinical research, leadership, and in the shared mission to deliver quality healthcare to our people. The 23 diverse award categories reflect the richness and depth of pharmacy practice — from community and hospital pharmacy to regulation, academia, industry, and public health”.

Pharmaceutical Sector Strategic Pillar for Industrial Revolution

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, for her part said the government views the pharmaceutical sector not only through the lens of public health, but also as a strategic pillar of the industrial transformation agenda.

“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us a powerful lesson about the importance of local pharmaceutical production and supply chain resilience. It reminded us that health security is indeed a matter of national security”, she pointed out.

She explained that the celebration of excellence must also be a call to action, stating, “Let us ask ourselves: how do we build a pharmaceutical industry that is not only excellent in performance, but also inclusive, innovative, and globally relevant?

“We must encourage public-private partnerships, invest in research and development, and harness the potential of digital health technologies to transform how pharmaceutical care is delivered in Ghana”, she added.

PSHG to Continue to Uphold Ethical Standards

Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh, President of PSGH, described the event as a milestone in recognizing the often-unseen efforts of pharmaceutical professionals.

“This is a moment to celebrate those who work tirelessly to uphold quality, safety and efficacy in pharmaceutical products and services”.

He reiterated the Society’s commitment to upholding ethical standards, promoting professional development, and advocating for policies that empower local pharmaceutical enterprises.

The CEO of the Year, (Ernest Bediako Sampong Award), 2025 went to Pharm. Dr. Kofi Nsiah-Poku

The Pharmaceutical Company of the Year, 2025 went to Tobinco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Other award winners were Brand of the Year (OTC), 2025, Lufart; Multinational Company of the Year, 2025, Viatris; Excellence in Pharma: Manufacturing, 2025, Kinapharma Limited; Hospital Pharmacy of the Year, The Bank Hospital Pharmacy and Excellence in Pharma Education (Prof. A.N. Tackie Award),2025, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana.

Below is PSGH Pharma Excellence Awards 2025

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.

Story of Takara Nikki Nicholson, now Nana Efua Obonkowa

Oh, what a journey it has been! As I sit here reflecting on the path that has led me to this incredible moment in my life, I am filled with gratitude and joy. My story begins with a little girl who dared to dream big dreams of Africa. Those dreams, once mere whispers in my heart, grew into a roaring fire as I matured, igniting a deep desire to connect with my ancestral roots and the vibrant culture of the land that called to me.

From a young age, I felt a profound longing to bridge the gap between my life in America and the rich heritage of my ancestors in Ghana. I knew that to truly honor my lineage, I needed to learn the language of my forebears and immerse myself in the vibrant tapestry of African life. This realization set me on an adventurous journey, filled with both challenges and triumphs.

With a heart full of determination, I took my first steps toward Africa, facing a few setbacks along the way. But each obstacle only strengthened my resolve! Alongside my cousin, I opened Lady Naps Winery, the first Black-owned winery in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Little did I know that this venture would be my gateway to Ghana and the beginning of a remarkable partnership with my now dear friend, George Essoun. After watching a YouTube interview about my winery, George reached out, and our friendship blossomed over a shared vision of connecting cultures through wine.

As our bond deepened, I revealed my aspirations to start a real estate development company aimed at building strong bridges between Africa and the diaspora. To my delight, George introduced me to his best friend, Ibrahim Muntari, a young politician and entrepreneur the CEO of a nonprofit Abraham Smiles foundation. Together we envisioned a future full of possibilities. My first visit to Ghana was eye-opening; we started a business called (CSBAFRICA) Connecting Strong Bridges to Africa. I discovered the misconceptions we, as members of the diaspora, had been fed. This revelation ignited a fire within me to sound the alarm and bring my people back to their rightful home, to reconnect with the rich heritage that is ours.

It was during this transformative journey that I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging—a feeling that was like medicine to my soul. My passion for uplifting my community led my business partners and me to visit orphanages and support widows in need. Our efforts caught the attention of local leaders, chefs, and even kings, paving the way for something truly extraordinary.

One such leader was Nana Odeneho Poma, the Chief of Akatakyiwa. Our meeting was a beautiful convergence of hearts and minds, and during our conversation, he asked me to take on the esteemed role of “Queen Mother of Development for Akatakyiwa”. After much prayer and reflection, I humbly accepted this incredible honor.

On September 7th, 2024, I was formally crowned as the *Queen Mother of Development*, and I felt an overwhelming sense of purpose wash over me. This title is not just a position; it is a commitment to serve my community, to foster development, and to create pathways for others to connect with their roots.

As I embrace this role, I am filled with excitement for the future. I am dedicated to building bridges that unite the diaspora with Africa, empowering our people, and nurturing the next generation. Together, we will create a thriving community where dreams can flourish and where our shared history is celebrated.

This journey has been nothing short of miraculous, and I am eager to continue this adventure, fostering love, connection, and development in Akatakyiwa and beyond.

Janet Akutey (pictured) discovered she was intersex at age 28

A Ghanaian intersex woman named Janet Akutey has shared the story of her traumatic journey of discovering her identity at age 28 after years of confusion and near-suicide.

In an interview with GraphicOnline TV, Akutey revealed she only learnt she was intersex in July 2024, despite a lifetime of unexplained physical differences.

“Even though growing up at my adolescent stage, my body was not conforming to the societal expectation of femininity, I didn’t actually know what was happening to my body. My breasts did not develop, and I never had periods growing up.

“My parents will always ask me, why am I not having periods? Why are my breasts not developing? Because I have three kid sisters. And then even the last one of them started having periods and breasts. And they kept asking me that question. I didn’t know what answer to give them,” she shared.

Akutey stated that after turning 18 with no changes, she took matters into her own hands, visiting hospitals and prayer camps for answers.

“I started moving from one hospital to another for a while, but nothing changed. And then I resorted to spiritual interventions. I just go to prayer camps and live there for weeks,” she said.

When she finally discovered she was intersex, Janet said the psychological toll of her situation pushed her to the brink of taking her own life.

“When I discovered that I was intersex, I wanted to come out to the world because I had gone through a lot of psychological distress to the point that I even wanted to commit suicide.

“Because if a family will attest to that, a lot of intersex people have attempted suicide several times. Even those who have not actually attempted it have planned because I was on the verge of committing suicide,” she added.

Her turning point, she said, came when she confided in her Pentecost University pastor and his doctor wife.

Though unfamiliar with intersex conditions, they researched and supported her.

Now an advocate with the Intersex Persons Society of Ghana, Janet hopes her story helps others facing similar isolation.

“But when I found the society and then I found support, I realised that a lot of people might have been going through something similar and I want to help them with my story,” she said.

Watch the video below:

ID/AE

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Entertainment News WhatsApp channel

Accra, April 13, GNA-Casablanca’s Mohammed V Sports Complex, which has undergone a facelift following a major redevelopment project, reopened its doors Saturday evening for the derby between Wydad and Raja, as part of Matchday 26 of the Botola Pro D1 “Inwi” football league.

The redevelopment project for this legendary stadium in the economic capital is part of the stadium upgrade programme in preparation for hosting upcoming major sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 World Cup.

The work, which began in March 2024 and was completed in March 2025, consisted, according to data from the National Agency for Public Equipment (ANEP), of replacing the 45,000 seats in this national football temple, upgrading the press box, the sound system, video surveillance, and access control.

It also included the development of four changing rooms and warm-up rooms, the creation of the mixed zone and the new central tunnel for players, the replacement of the pitch (with a latest-generation hybrid pitch), the renovation of the athletics track, the upgrading of the lighting, and the replacement of the advertising screens.

The work also included the construction of a building to regulate and completely separate the various traffic flows, the development of a new access ramp for players’ buses, the VIP and VVIP parking, and the TV compound.

It also included the development of the VIP and media lounges, the construction of the new conference room, the creation of dressing rooms, the upgrading of restrooms, refreshment areas, and public infirmaries, in addition to increasing the number of gates and access control.

Outside the stadium, the work consisted of resurfacing the sidewalks and green spaces, upgrading the exterior lighting, repairing the fencing, and upgrading the annex.

Officially inaugurated in 1955, the Mohammed V Sports Complex has hosted the largest sporting events and tournaments in the Kingdom. A true land of sport and athletes, the Kingdom is increasingly establishing itself as a leader in the sporting field, not only in Africa but also internationally.

Indeed, Morocco, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, is pursuing a highly ambitious policy to develop its sports infrastructure as part of its preparations for hosting the 2025 African Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

This proactive policy aims to meet the international standards required by FIFA and CAF, while consolidating the Kingdom’s position as a continental, regional, and global sports hub. In this regard, Morocco continues to invest heavily in its sports infrastructure to host major international events such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup.

Thus, numerous stadiums, sports complexes, and training facilities are currently under construction or renovation to meet the most demanding international standards.

These include the construction of the Hassan II Stadium in Benslimane, the reconstruction of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, and the expansion and upgrading of the Grand Stade de Tangier, in accordance with FIFA specifications.

Ongoing work also involves the rehabilitation of the major stadiums in Fez, Marrakech, and Agadir, to bring them into compliance, initially with the CAF specifications, and then, in a second phase, with the FIFA specifications. Studies for this second phase have been completed, and work will begin immediately after the 2025 AFCON.

Finally, ongoing work also involves the reconstruction of the Al Barid Stadium and the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
GNA
CA/

Calls intensify for financial literacy in schools

Dr Eric Boachie Yiadom, a Financial Economist, has called for the establishment of investment clubs in second and third-cycle educational institutions as a practical approach to enhancing financial literacy among young Ghanaians.

He said formalising investment education through student-led clubs would equip learners with hands-on experience in savings, investments and financial decision-making.

That would help reduce vulnerability to scams and poor money management.

Dr Yiadom made the suggestion at a financial literacy conference in Accra on Saturday.

The conference was on the theme: “Building Wealth, Changing Lives, Strengthening Communities through Personal and Financial Education.”

He highlighted the effectiveness of investment clubs where students pool resources to invest in mutual funds or other ventures while learning collaboratively.

Dr Yiadom shared his own experience about how a similar initiative during his school years, exposed participants to both opportunities and risks.

He stressed practical exposure which was critical to building financial resilience.

The Financial Expert proposed a structured model where clubs operated under guided frameworks, encouraging members to research, debate investment options and track outcomes.

He urged educational institutions and the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB) to support such programmes by providing resources and integrating them into curricula.

“Investment clubs turn theory into practice. Students become managers of their financial education which textbooks alone cannot achieve,” he said.

Dr Yiadom appealed to policymakers and financial institutions to prioritise financial literacy infrastructure, particularly for underserved groups.

He recommended leveraging social media and informal community networks to broaden reach, adding that the future of Ghana’s economy depended on a financially savvy generation.

Mr Peter Asare Nyarko, Executive Director of the Centre for Financial Literacy Africa (CFLE Africa), emphasised the crucial role of the banking sector in fostering a financially literate society.

He stated that for the CFLE Africa to achieve its mandate of making every individual financially aware and literate, the support and resources of banking institutions were essential.

The individuals educated by CFLE Africa ultimately became consumers of the banks’ financial products and services, creating a symbiotic relationship where investment in financial literacy drove business growth for the banking sector, Mr Nyarko said.

He urged the banks to allocate marketing resources towards financial literacy initiatives, a strategy that had successfully been implemented by organisations in Tanzania.

Attended by industry leaders and stakeholders, the conference underscored the need for holistic financial education to drive Ghana’s economic transformation.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

A concerned youth group of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Okaikwei North Constituency has vowed to be apathetic towards the party should their preferred candidate, Abdul-Rashid Issah be denied the Okaikwei North Municipal Chief Executive position.

This comes amidst speculations about the potential appointment of a candidate from Okaikwei North Constituency, a sister constituency of the Okaikwei North Municipality.

The group, during a media briefing in Accra on Sunday, April 13, accused the governing NDC of continued neglect despite its contribution to the party’s political fortunes.

Abass Yusif Hussein, the Branch Executive and spokesperson for the group, said, “As an MCE, he will bring inclusiveness, harmony and participatory governance. Your H.E., we must be blunt, any attempts to by pass Abdul-Rashid, respectfully, in the selection of the next MCE for Okaikwei North muncipality will be met with deep disappointment, resistance and potential demoralisation amongst party faithful.”

Prof. Gyampo sets new austerity tone at Ghana Shippers Authority

…..

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x

No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital