In late 2020, amid the economic maelstrom unleashed by Covid-19, there were few better places to be than sitting on top of a goldmine.

In Ghana, the west African country once called the Gold Coast by British colonisers, the Bogoso-Prestea mine was producing 4,000 ounces of the precious metal a month, valued at $6m (£4.5m).

As gold prices reached record highs, London-based Blue International Holdings – a seasoned investor in African energy projects, pounced to buy the mine for $95m.

Blue International promised “attractive financial returns while having a positive impact on the communities and countries in which it operates, and the planet as a whole”, according to its website.

It enjoyed the backing of a trio of British political heavyweights, including two members of the House of Lords and a government minister.

Yet, a few short years later, its future appears to have tarnished.

And, as the Guardian reveals now, the venture appears to have resulted in collateral damage to everyone from Ghanaian mineworkers to a member of the British royal family, a billionaire backer of the GB News TV channel and, possibly, UK taxpayers.

Political heavyweights

“Blue Gold is a scam” read a placard, as protesters, backed by a brass band, voiced their discontent in February 2024.

It was the latest in a string of demonstrations as miners and suppliers in the resource-rich Ashanti gold belt demanded to know why they were seeing no benefit from the precious metal buried beneath their feet.

Four years earlier, when Blue International arrived, the future had seemed promising.

The company boasted a track record of African investment stretching back to 2011, steered by its co-founders Andrew Cavaghan and Mark Green, professional investors with financial pedigree.

As well as its new goldmine in southern Ghana, the company also owned a promising hydroelectric power project in Sierra Leone, a partnership with the government in Freetown.

It came with a phalanx of prestige backers, drawn from the British political and business elite.

Lord Dannatt, the former head of the British army, and Lord Triesman, a Foreign Office minister with responsibility for UK diplomatic relations in Africa, served on its advisory board.

So, too, did Philip Green, who was rebuilding his reputation after the implosion of the government outsourcer Carillion, which collapsed during his time as chair in 2018.

John Glen, a Treasury minister between 2018 and 2023, held shares in the company.

The UK taxpayer was also significantly exposed. In early 2024, it emerged that the Treasury had lent Blue International £3.3m of taxpayers’ money via the “Future Fund” the previous year.

Glen, the MP for Salisbury in Wiltshire, said he was not aware of the loan application when he served at the Treasury and there is no suggestion that he did.

The Future Fund was designed, in the words of then chancellor Rishi Sunak, to support “start-ups and innovative firms” survive the pandemic by extending them loans that converted into equity.

In this case, the money supported a company engaged in extracting valuable minerals from African soil.

Fool’s gold

In mining, all can appear calm on the surface, even as things fall apart below ground.

By the time British taxpayers’ money was pumped into Blue International, its Ghanaian venture was on the brink of a financial collapse whose tremors reached from rural west Africa to the City of London.

Within two years of Blue International’s takeover, operations at Bogoso-Prestea had been shut down several times, according to corporate filings and contemporary reports.

Mineworkers blamed lack of investment from Blue, which owned and operated the mine via a local subsidiary, Future Global Resources (FGR).

Lack of output choked off cashflow and increased costs, as equipment failed or required maintenance, according to one corporate filing.

FGR failed to pay local suppliers, including the Ghanaian state electricity company, while mineworkers were left out of pocket, according to filings, fuelling local protests.

“It had devastating consequences,” said Abdul-Moomin Gbana, the general secretary of the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU). He said workers’ salaries went unpaid for months, hitting the community hard.

“General conditions declined because they had no income. The communities virtually became ghost towns,” he said.

“It became obvious that if nothing was done, there was no way there could be a future for the mine.”

Blue Gold declined to answer questions about the claims of unpaid wages, and directed questions to FGR. FGR did not respond to requests for comment.

Eventually, in 2024, the Ghanaian government issued an ultimatum. Blue International must restore the mine to working production or hand back its lease, the right to own and operate the site.

The company tried to issue bonds – a form of IOU – in Ghana to raise cash that could be invested in bringing the mine back to production but the fundraising effort stalled.

The directors behind Blue International, Cavaghan and Green, restructured the debt-laden mine’s ownership, moving it into a new entity called Blue Gold, also owned and incorporated by them, as part of a plan to raise new investment in the US.

Despite this, in late 2024, the government of Ghana made good on its threat to seize back the Bogoso-Prestea lease.

A legal challenge from the company failed earlier this year in Ghana’s high court and the mine was handed over to a new operator.

From Iraq to Ghana

Blue International’s travails were not felt only by Ghanaian miners and the surrounding community.

The British taxpayer’s investment in the business now appeared to be under threat too. But it was blue-blooded lenders that suffered the more profound consequences.

In 2021, at the start of its Ghanaian venture, Blue International had borrowed about $5m from Devonport Capital, a bespoke lender specialising in “high-risk” jurisdictions, offering short-term loans at relatively high interest rates.

Devonport, headquartered in Plymouth, was founded by Paul Bailey, a corporate lawyer who had carved out a niche advising investors in postwar Iraq. His partner was Thomas Kingston, who had also worked in Iraq conducting hostage negotiations for the UK Foreign Office in Baghdad, where he had witnessed first-hand the horrors of sectarian violence.

In the UK, Kingston was better known for his marriage, in 2019, to Lady Gabriella Windsor, a second cousin of King Charles III.

With this experienced and well-connected duo at the helm, Devonport thrived, recording pre-tax profit of £6m in 2023.

But as Blue International’s Ghanaian woes mounted, it began defaulting on the interest payments it owed to Devonport.

Another of Devonport’s important borrowers also defaulted at the same time, leaving the lender increasingly unable to repay its own creditors.

Then, in February 2024, personal tragedy struck.

Thomas Kingston died from a gunshot wound at his parents’ home in the Cotswolds on 25 February. A coroner ruled that he had taken his own life.

Torn apart by a combination of personal tragedy and the ongoing inability to recover its debts, Devonport fell into administration a year later.

A report published in March by the administrator, RG Insolvency, lists creditors who had lent money to Devonport.

Among them is Christopher Chandler, a New Zealand businessman and founder of Dubai-based investment company Legatum, which funds UK media channel GB News. Chandler declined to comment.

Creditors also include HM Revenue and Customs, which is owed more than £788,000.

RG Insolvency estimates that, of the £49m owed by Devonport, as little as £11.2m could be recovered.

Much will depend on whether administrators can recoup about £13.5m owed by Blue International.

Earlier this year, the team behind Blue International completed a $114.5m combination with a US “blank cheque” investment firm called Perception Capital, and floating the combined entity on the US Nasdaq stock exchange under the Blue Gold name.

Golden future?

What comes next is murky at best. Blue Gold’s new website outlines ambitious plans to reopen the Bogoso-Prestea mine.

But Ghana appears to be sticking by its decision to strip Blue of the lease.

The dispute is now the subject of international arbitration, according to a stock market filing by Blue Gold, leaving the mine’s future up in the air. In an annual report filed in the US, Blue Gold admits that the leases may never be returned, which would reduce the value of the company’s assets from $368m to less than $45m.

A section on the company website offers little further clarity, stating: “Subject to resolving legal dispute with the government of Ghana, first gold pour is expected.”

The Guardian approached the Foreign Office to ask if the UK government had intervened on Blue Gold’s behalf with ministers in Accra. The department declined to comment.

Dannatt and Triesman also declined to comment. Glen said he had not discussed the company’s Ghanaian dispute with any UK government department, official or diplomat.

On the ground in Ghana,local sources say little has changed, with operations still shut down under a new owner and mineworkers still left unpaid.

The uncertainty means that, for everyone from local mineworkers to members of the British establishment, the dream of blue gold remains a mirage, tantalisingly out of reach.

The Guardian approached Blue Gold for comment. The company referred the Guardian to its website and shareholder filings but did not address questions directly.

Paul Bailey did not return requests for comment. RG Insolvency declined to comment.

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has underscored the need for Ghana to lead in telling its own historical narratives, highlighting this as a key step toward achieving the moral and socioeconomic benefits of repatriations.

Speaking at the 2025 PANAFEST Emancipation celebrations in Cape Coast (Victoria Park), the Vice President emphasised the importance of embedding Pan-African ideals in the younger generation.

She stressed that a strong sense of identity and historical awareness is essential for shaping the continent’s future.

This year’s event, themed “Let Us Speak of Reparative Justice – Pan-African Artistic Activism,” brought together a rich tapestry of participants, including chiefs from the Oguaa Traditional Council, government officials, cultural leaders, religious leaders, members of the African diaspora, media and the general public.

Also addressing the gathering, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Dzifa Abla Gomashie, stated that the 2025 celebration reflects Ghana’s deepened commitment to healing, cultural renewal, and collective progress—guided by the themes of solidarity, remembrance, and innovation.

The minister further highlighted the unique role PANAFEST plays in shaping Ghana’s cultural identity and reinforcing its position as a symbol of Pan-African pride and historical consciousness.

The event saw a rich display of Ghanaian tradition and Culture including dancing, drumming and singing.

It was a moment of deep reflection of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

Panafest Emancipation 2025 seeks to provide platforms to generate storytelling and engagements to achieve a more thorough understanding of the basis for Raparative Justice and rekindle the Emancipation agenda.

Two days after he was kidnapped in July 2007, the bloodied and battered corpse of Floribert Bwana Chui Bin Kositi was dumped outside a university campus in the city of Goma, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The newly graduated 26-year-old and devout Catholic was just three months into a job as a customs official – which he had taken on with his usual zeal, by refusing to be bribed.

He had stood up to people wanting to smuggle in rice from neighbouring Rwanda that had spoiled and could have proven poisonous if eaten. No-one has ever been arrested for his killing.

Fr Francesco Tedeschi, the man campaigning for Kositi to become a Catholic saint, told the BBC his “mafia-style” murder was meant to serve as a warning to anyone else who stood up to corruption – in a part of the world where guns tend to hold sway over the rule of law.

Goma is the capital of North Kivu Province, which is rich in covetable minerals – such as those that power mobile phones – and plentiful in rebel and militia groups.

But Fr Tedeschi believes the warning completely failed because of Kositi’s legacy of love and justice, saying the kindness he had shown through his short life lives on today.

His actions, in a place where corruption is the norm, were informed by his faith.

It had made him strong enough to resist repeated offers by the smugglers.

According to the Catholic Sant’Egidio community of which he was a member – Kositi was first offered $1,000 (£750), then $2,000 “and even more”, but consistently said no.

“He had received phone calls and pressure, even from public authorities, to turn a blind eye and take his fee as everyone had always done,” the Community of Sant’Egidio said.

Last year, the Catholic Church declared him a martyr – one of the steps to sainthood – as it felt his death was the result of his unwillingness to sacrifice his Christian values for money.

In the Catholic tradition, a saint serves as a model of Christian life and is regarded as a hero of the faith through their exceptional actions of courage.

Kositi has since been beatified – at a ceremony in Rome last month – meaning that once one miracle has been attributed to him, he will become a saint.

So far this has been a remarkably fast journey, as canonisation – the process to sainthood – can sometimes take decades or centuries – though this is speeded up if the Church decides someone died for their faith.

Born in Goma in 1981, Kositi was the eldest of three siblings and eight half-siblings, according to a biography written by Sant’Egidio, which described him as coming from a “well-off family”. His father was a bank clerk and his mother a border police officer.

“Floribert Bwana Chui was an intelligent and eloquent child from birth. He was a polite boy who respected us, his parents. I saw a bright future in him. I was expecting him to be a boy who would get married, have a wife and children,” his mother Gertrude Kamara Ntawiha told UN-sponsored Radio Okapi last month before travelling to Rome for her son’s beatification – which was also attended by Kositi’s two younger brothers.

Despite the challenges of living in eastern DR Congo, Kositi was always curious about the world, did well at school and went on to study law at university.

It was during his studies that he attended a regional student conference in Rwanda, in 2001, that changed the course of his life.

An Italian priest gave a talk at the gathering which had brought together people to discuss ways to find, and live in, peace in the restive Great Lakes region.

He was speaking on behalf of the Sant’Egidio community, a movement of both lay people and clergy, committed to social service – and the priest was encouraging the students to embrace a pastoral mission.

Fr Tedeschi had barely finished speaking at the auditorium in southern Rwanda’s leafy university town of Butare when Kositi approached him.

“That speech very much touched Floribert as well as his other friends who had come from Goma,” he told the BBC.

“He wanted to begin a community of Sant’Egidio in Goma. [He was] a young man full of joy with a wish to be useful to the world, with a wish to change what he saw around him that did not work.”

Kositi took up his mission – and in particular his efforts focused on helping street children, Fr Tedeschi said.

The region around Goma has known decades of conflict and is currently at the centre of a rebellion that has seen a powerful rebel group take over the city and swathes of territory surrounding it.

Kositi, “very affected” by the fate of children caught up in successive traumas, set up one of Sant’Egidio’s “Schools of Peace” – which offer food and other assistance to get children an education.

Today Goma’s School of Peace is named in honour of him and has become an actual school.

But in the early 2000s, the young undergraduate was often helping street children financially with school fees or food – or assisting them to become self-reliant in a city where almost everyone was struggling.

“What struck me,” said Fr Tedeschi, “was how Floribert was someone who took the life of others very seriously and more importantly, he would ask himself a lot of questions to understand what the roots of poverty were – the misfortunes of people.

“He liked talking, to confront these problems.”

Kositi’s reach went beyond DR Congo’s borders. In Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, some 100km (60 miles) east of Goma, Bernard Musana Segatagara, a Sant’Egidio fellow, also remembers him.

“Changing Africa and building peace was our shared dream as we observed a growing network of friendship. I think living in a region of tension was making our friendship even more special,” he told the BBC.

After graduating in 2006, Kositi began training as a customs official in the capital, Kinshasa, before taking up a senior post on the border between Rwanda and DR Congo in April 2007.

The rice dispute involved a consignment of around four or five tonnes – which he had tested as he was worried about its safety and then ordered that it be destroyed.

“At first that pushed the smugglers to try and bribe him, and later to threaten him. And Floribert always refused,” Fr Tedeschi said.

“He refused based on his Christian principles. At one point he asked a doctor – a nun working in Goma, who was a friend – so he could really understand the dangers this rice would have represented to the civilian population.

“And that’s what led him to think: ‘So me as a Christian, I can neither accept money nor that these people risk dying because of this poisoned food just because of corruption.'”

For the priest this is what showed his “loyalty to the gospel, Christian values of love for one’s neighbour [and] justice”.

Lawyer Jean Jacques Bakinahe, who studied with Kositi at the University of Goma and was also one of the leaders of Sant’Egidio in the city, agrees.

He told the Rwanda Catholic Church TV channel that his friend “profoundly followed the gospel of peace… [which] really helped him categorically reject that act of corruption”.

But it ultimately led to his death.

“[The smugglers] wanted to send a message… a mafia-style warning,” said Fr Tedeschi.

He acknowledged it might have scared some customs officials at the time but said it had “not succeeded in making [people] forget these testimonies of love and justice that Floribert gave us”.

When the late Pope Francis visited DR Congo in February 2023, he spoke to young people at the main stadium in Kinshasa – and urged them to follow Kositi’s example.

“A young person like yourselves, Floribert Bwana Chui… at only 26 years old, was killed in Goma for having blocked the passage of spoiled foodstuffs that would have been harmful for people’s health,” he said.

“Since he was a Christian, he prayed. He thought of others and he chose to be honest – saying no to the filth of corruption.

“If someone offers you a bribe, or promises you favours and lots of money, do not fall into the trap. Do not be deceived! Do not be sucked into the swamp of evil!” he said.

His successor, Pope Leo XIV, who presided over the beatification ceremony at the Papal Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls in June, agreed a more promising future lay ahead for DR Congo’s young people.

“This African martyr, in a continent rich in youths, shows how young people can give rise to peace,” the pontiff said.

The Christian martyr, who now has the title of “blessed” before his name, was lauded in the basilica full of joyous Congolese faithful waving flags.

“May the long-awaited peace in Kivu, in Congo, and across all of Africa come soon – through the intercession of the Virgin Mary and Blessed Floribert,” said Pope Leo.

If peace were to be delivered to Goma, where two joint peace processes are currently under way, that would indeed be a miracle worthy of a saint – and would give hope to the entire region.

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.

Dr Bawumia, Bryan Acheampong, Kennedy Agyapong and Dr Adutwum

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has released its timetable for their flagbearership race.

This comes after a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on July 25, 2025, at the Alisa Hotel in Accra.

According to the party, nominations will be opened on July 29, 2025, for all persons interested in contesting for the flagbearer to pick their forms.

Nominations according to the communique will close on August 28, 2025, to make way for vetting which is scheduled for September 15 to 22.

The party is expected to go to the polls on January 31, 2026, to elect a flagbearer who will work to wrestle power from the NDC in 2028.

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION TIMETABLE

Opening of Nomination – July 29, 2025

Closing of Nomination – August 28, 2025

Vetting – September 15th – 22nd

Recommendations of Vetting Reports to NC – September 29

Submission of petition – September 30th – 3rd October

NEC/NC – October 7th

Publication of nominees – October 8th

Balloting – October 10th

Notice of poll – October 17th

Election- 31/01/26

Run Off – 14/02/26

Ever heard of Nkofie, the legendary Kwahu cave believed to grant wishes? Join GhanaWeb’s People & Places as we take you on an exclusive tour of this mystical site:

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, delivered a powerful address at the 2025 PANAFEST and Emancipation Day celebrations in Cape Coast, issuing a fervent plea for Africans to dismantle deeply entrenched “racial inferiority complexes and economic systems rooted in colonial exploitation”.

She unequivocally described these as enduring and detrimental legacies of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in her speech on Saturday, July 27.

Speaking to a captivated audience that included traditional leaders, members of the African diaspora, and local dignitaries, Ms Gomashie asserted that the transatlantic slave trade engineered “structures of exploitation that continue to distort Africa’s development and self-image.”

Her remarks underscored the festival’s dual purpose: commemorating a painful past while actively shaping a liberated future.

“This is not just a celebration; it is a call for reparative justice and a reawakening of African consciousness,” she declared, linking the historical commemoration to contemporary demands for equity and self-determination.

Ms Gomashie stressed the paramount importance of embracing Ghana’s rich cultural identity as a bedrock for reclaiming African dignity and achieving genuine economic independence.

She passionately urged both Ghanaians and the global African diaspora to actively reject systems of psychological and economic dependence that were imposed through colonial history.

This call aligns with broader Pan-Africanist movements advocating for economic liberation and self-reliance, recognising that political independence often did not translate into true economic sovereignty.

For instance, many African nations still grapple with unequal trade agreements, reliance on raw material exports, and external debt burdens that limit their developmental autonomy.

Underscoring the government’s steadfast commitment to elevating Ghana’s global cultural relevance, Minister Gomashie reaffirmed her Ministry’s dedication to The Black Star Experience.

She described this signature initiative as central to the national tourism and cultural agenda, positioning it as a cornerstone of Ghana’s engagement with the diaspora.

“The Ministry of Art and Tourism is proud to champion the Black Star Experience, an initiative that was launched by President John Dramani Mahama himself. We envision Ghana not only as the gateway to the continent but also as the spiritual homeland of all people of African descent,” she stated.

The Black Star Experience builds upon the success of initiatives like the “Year of Return” (2019), which saw over 1.1 million visitors to Ghana, injecting an estimated $1.9 billion into the economy, and the subsequent “Beyond the Return” campaign.

These programmes actively encourage the African diaspora to visit, invest, and reconnect with their ancestral homeland, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting economic ties.

Such initiatives are crucial not only for tourism revenue but also for leveraging the intellectual and financial capital of the diaspora for Ghana’s development.

This year’s PANAFEST and Emancipation events served as a powerful convergence, bringing together the Oguaa Traditional Council, the Central Regional House of Chiefs, and a diverse representation of the African diaspora.

The collective gathering symbolised a united front to honour ancestral resilience, reflect on historical injustices, and collaboratively forge a robust, united vision for Africa’s future.

The cultural festivities, intellectual discussions, and spiritual ceremonies held during PANAFEST are designed to reinforce a shared identity and inspire collective action towards overcoming contemporary challenges and building a prosperous continent.

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.

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Prof. Godfred Bokpin is an economist and professor at the University of Ghana Business School

Economist and professor at the University of Ghana Business School, Godfred Bokpin, has commended the current economic management under President John Mahama, drawing a sharp contrast with the previous administration led by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

According to Prof. Bokpin, what Ghanaians are witnessing today is leadership that the country sorely lacked in recent years.

“The current administration has ample room to take credit for the economy,” he stated during a discussion on TV3’s The Key Points on Saturday, July 26.

He added, “If the previous management of the central bank had 40 per cent of the leadership that the current ones are showing now, the economic situation would have been different.”

Prof. Bokpin’s latest commentary comes on the heels of a related critique he made just days earlier in a separate interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show.

He revisited the early days of Nana Akufo-Addo’s presidency, lamenting what he described as a wasted opportunity to implement major national reforms.

“It was the same expectation we had when President Akufo-Addo came to office in 2017 because he had the numbers,” Bokpin recalled, referencing the NPP’s commanding parliamentary majority at the time.

“But unfortunately, very little was done in terms of structural and productivity-enhancing reforms.”

He described 2017 as a “perfect moment” for transformative governance, but regretted that the administration failed to deliver.

In his view, the current government has inherited that unfulfilled mandate. It now has a second chance to do what the previous leadership could not—reset Ghana’s economic trajectory through real structural reforms.

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has officially launched the 17th edition of the Pan-African Historical Theatre Festival (PANAFEST) and Emancipation Day 2025 in a grand ceremony held in the Central Region on Saturday, July 27.

The kickoff sets the tone for a festival that not only commemorates the enduring struggles of the Transatlantic Slave Trade but also celebrates Ghana’s vibrant cultural heritage and aims to strengthen ties with the global African diaspora.

Addressing a durbar attended by traditional leaders, government officials, members of the diaspora, and the public, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang delivered a poignant message.

She called upon both Ghanaians and the global African diaspora to never forget the painful history of enslavement, urging them to “remember the painful history of enslavement and to take ownership of their narrative as a guide toward progress and unity.”

This emphasis on narrative control highlights the importance of Africans telling their own stories, countering historical misrepresentations, and fostering a shared identity rooted in resilience and aspiration.

The Vice President further underscored the imperative of freedom, stating, “She emphasised the importance of resisting all forms of oppression, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to freedom.”

This resonates deeply with Ghana’s historical role as a beacon of independence in Africa and its ongoing efforts to champion human rights and self-determination on the continent.

A significant portion of Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s address was dedicated to the critical role of young people in shaping Ghana’s future and, by extension, Africa’s destiny.

She issued a powerful call for youth-centred policies and robust investments in their empowerment, education, and holistic development.

This focus on youth is particularly pertinent in Ghana, where over 57% of the population is under the age of 25.

While this demographic dividend presents immense potential for economic growth and innovation, it also poses challenges related to unemployment, access to quality education, and adequate opportunities for skills development.

According to the Ghana Statistical Service, youth unemployment, particularly among those with tertiary education, remains a significant concern, hovering around 19.1% in 2023.

PANAFEST, first held in 1992, is a biennial cultural event designed to promote and enhance the ideals of Pan-Africanism and African development.

It typically features a rich tapestry of theatre, drama, music, dance, poetry, and traditional rites, drawing participants from across Africa and the diaspora.

Emancipation Day, observed on August 1st, commemorates the abolition of slavery and serves as a significant moment for reflection on the legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the resilience of African people.

Ghana, through events like PANAFEST, has positioned itself as a spiritual home for the diaspora, particularly through initiatives like the “Year of Return” (2019) and “Beyond the Return” (ongoing), which encourage people of African descent to visit, invest, and reconnect with their ancestral roots.

The launch of PANAFEST 2025 sets the stage for a period of profound cultural immersion, historical remembrance, and strategic dialogue.

As the festival unfolds, it is expected to foster deeper connections between Africans on the continent and those in the diaspora, reinforcing a shared heritage and inspiring collective action towards a prosperous and unified future, driven by an empowered and conscious youth.

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.

Consumers in Ghana are finally beginning to feel the positive impact of the Cedi’s remarkable recent appreciation, with over 4,500 products on the Ghanaian market already seeing price reductions.

This encouraging development was revealed by the Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu and a member of Parliament’s Trade, Industry and Tourism Committee, Issah Attah.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, July 26, MP Attah disclosed that this extensive list of price reductions was revealed by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) during a recent stakeholder engagement.

The meeting aimed to address public concerns about a perceived disconnect between the Cedi’s impressive currency gains and the sluggish adjustment of retail prices.

“Go to the streets of Accra and ask people. Many will testify to the drastic reduction in the prices of goods,” MP Attah challenged, highlighting a growing public awareness of the changes.

He elaborated on the parliamentary committee’s proactive steps.

“As a trade committee, we engaged key stakeholders including GUTA [Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations], AGI, the Importers and Exporters Association, and other relevant partners at the ports to understand why the Cedi’s improved performance was not immediately reflected in market prices.”

According to MP Attah, the committee’s investigations found that while some sectors had indeed been slow to adjust their pricing structures downwards, the comprehensive data presented by the AGI provided concrete evidence of widespread relief for consumers.

“The report we received from AGI indicated that over 4,500 products in Ghana have already benefited from price reductions,” he stated definitively.

The revelation comes on the heels of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s announcement during the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review that the Ghana Cedi had appreciated by an unprecedented 42.6% against the US Dollar, 30.3% against the British Pound, and 25.6% against the Euro by the end of June 2025.

This historic turnaround from a period of severe depreciation has been largely attributed to robust fiscal consolidation, tight monetary policy, improved external sector balance, and renewed investor confidence.

For the average Ghanaian consumer, the Cedi’s strength directly translates to reduced import costs.

Ghana’s economy is significantly import-dependent, with a vast range of goods – from fuel and pharmaceuticals to electronics and clothing – being sourced from abroad.

A stronger Cedi means that importers pay less in local currency for the same quantity of foreign goods, theoretically leading to lower retail prices.

The reported price reductions align with the observed decline in Ghana’s inflation rate. The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reported that inflation had fallen from 23.8% in December 2024 to 13.7% in June 2025, marking six consecutive months of decline.

Food inflation, a major component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), also saw a significant drop from 27.8% to 16.3% in the same period.

This disinflation process is expected to continue as the Cedi stabilises and the cost of imported goods decreases.

While the news is largely positive for consumers, experts caution that the full impact of currency gains on retail prices can take time to manifest due to various factors, including existing stock purchased at higher exchange rates, hedging strategies by businesses, and the general lag in market adjustments.

However, the AGI’s data, as cited by MP Attah, provides some evidence that the benefits are indeed trickling down to the market.

This development is a welcome relief for Ghanaian households that have grappled with high cost-of-living pressures in recent years.

It signals a tangible positive outcome of the government’s economic stabilisation efforts and offers a glimmer of hope for improved purchasing power across the country.

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.

Jones Borteye Applerh is the CEO of GIHOC

Jones Borteye Applerh, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Industrial Holding Corporation (GIHOC), has called for the urgent revitalisation of the facility, declaring that “GIHOC must rise again”.

He said GIHOC had struggled in recent years with crippling debt, outdated equipment, stalled production, and a shrinking market presence, hence the need for urgent revitalisation.

At a press conference and a tour of the company’s production facility in Accra, Applerh highlighted numerous challenges the company had faced in the past few years.

He said that various machines used at the facility needed to be modernised, as some dated back to 1964 and were running at less than 40 per cent efficiency.

The CEO stated that the company’s debts exceeded GH¢427 million, which included unpaid taxes to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), loans, pension arrears, obligations to suppliers, and those to MASLOC.

“Lack of raw materials stalled production for months, with our flagship brands nearly vanishing from the shelves. We have lost a considerable market share,” he stressed.

Applerh said for the past five months, 2.6 million bottles had been procured, and that they had reversed the “No bottle return scheme” of the previous management.

Additionally, the ethanol crisis had been resolved through the kind benevolence of a traditional ethanol supplier of GIHOC, and the public was assured that production was back on track.

Applerh also explained that ageing faulty equipment had been repaired, with internal controls tightened to ensure that GIHOC regained its visibility in Ghana, especially in major cities like Accra and Kumasi.

“The G Tot line, which produces our sachet products, is all fully operational, and we are poised for the charge given by the President under the 24-hour economy Policy,” he added.

Outlining a comprehensive roadmap to restore GIHOC’s stature, the CEO said that within the short term, they would focus on stabilisation through full audits, cost controls, debt renegotiations, and re-engage their banks, GRA, Social Security and National Insurance Trust, MASLOC, and suppliers, with honesty and mutual respect.

Again, in the medium term, focus would be on growth through infrastructure upgrades, rebranding of products like Takai, Sorento Wine and Chevalier, export reactivation across ECOWAS, and the revamping of the Kumasi bottled water plant.

Applerh said in the long term, they would focus on transformation through a possible new ultra-modern plant in the Volta Region, reviving the Aboso Glass Factory, to secure bottle supply locally and supply the general glass needs of the country.

“We will also focus on establishing our own logistics fleet and warehouses and rebrand GIHOC to balance tradition with innovation,” he stressed.

Applerh said going forward, GIHOC would be transparent, merit-driven, value dialogue over confrontation, promote gender equity and youth inclusion, and be aligned with the government’s RESET Agenda and the national industrialisation plan.

He said the current management would restore GIHOC’s glory, rebuild its pride, reclaim its leadership in the beverage industry, return to profitability, honour its legacy, shape the future, and that the company would not just survive, but would thrive.

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As Ghana grapples with the sudden loss of Highlife icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba, his family has made an urgent plea for privacy, emphasising their state of “shock” and “pain”.

The legendary musician passed away yesterday, Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Bank Hospital in Accra at the age of 59, plunging the nation into mourning.

Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Saturday, the family’s lawyer, Fati Ali Yallah, conveyed the depth of their devastation.

“Very shocking. The family is just in a state of shock, state of pain. They cannot even talk. We are all shocked, including me, his lawyer. It is difficult for me,” Ms. Yallah revealed, highlighting the immediate and overwhelming impact of the news on Daddy Lumba’s loved ones.

Ms. Yallah clarified that the decision to publicly confirm Daddy Lumba’s death was a direct response to the rampant speculation and “misinformation” that had begun to spread across social media platforms following early, unverified reports.

“We were just mandated to announce the news of his demise because it was flying all over social media. Everybody was writing anything, so the family mandated us as his lawyer to announce it officially,” she stated, underscoring the family’s desire to control the narrative amidst a flurry of unconfirmed reports.

This proactive step by the family’s legal representative underscores the challenges faced by public figures’ families in the age of rapid digital dissemination, where the need to manage information often conflicts with the desire for private grief.

In Ghana, the passing of beloved public figures, especially those with Daddy Lumba’s stature, often triggers a wave of public discourse, speculation, and sometimes, unverified claims on social media, making a coordinated official announcement crucial.

Crucially, Ms. Yallah stressed the family’s firm stance on maintaining confidentiality regarding all other details surrounding the Highlife maestro’s passing.

“The family again has instructed that all other information be made confidential. We cannot disclose anything until we are instructed to do so,” she affirmed.

This strong appeal for discretion covers sensitive information such as the specific cause of death, funeral arrangements, and other personal details, allowing the family the space and time to process their loss away from public scrutiny.

She further assured the public that an official statement, containing more comprehensive details, would be released by the family at “the appropriate time.”

This phased approach is a common strategy employed by families of prominent individuals to manage public expectations while preserving their right to privacy during a period of intense grief.

Charles Kwadwo Fosu, born in Nsuta Amangoase, touched the lives of millions with his unique blend of Highlife and contemporary sounds over a career spanning more than three decades.

With over 30 albums to his credit, hits like “Aben Waha,” “Sika Asem,” and “Theresa” cemented his status as an unparalleled icon in Ghanaian music history.

His profound lyrical depth and distinctive vocal delivery earned him legions of devoted fans across the globe.

As the nation mourns the loss of a true musical titan, the family’s plea for privacy serves as a poignant reminder that even public figures and their loved ones are entitled to a space for personal grief.

Ghana awaits further official communication as arrangements are made to bid farewell to one of its most cherished musical sons.

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.

The Office of Diaspora Affairs at the Presidency has announced plans to discuss and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a group named “Back to your roots” to streamline impactful projects by Ghanaians living abroad or those with Ghanaian roots.

This follows calls from foreign individuals of Ghanaian descent urging the Office of Diaspora Affairs to implement measures facilitating their involvement in impactful projects in Ghana.

Speaking to Channel One News after engaging with the diaspora team, on July 24, Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD), Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Presidency, assured that the office will collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure individuals of Ghanaian descent living abroad have straightforward access to undertake projects in Ghana.

He commended the European Union (EU) and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) for their collaborative efforts with international partners, describing the initiative as a significant step towards ensuring Ghanaians in Europe feel connected and contribute effectively to Ghana’s socio-economic development.

“The remittances from these individuals play a vital role in our growth,” KOD noted.

“We cannot focus on one part of the world and neglect others. Our mandate includes replicating such initiatives to ensure they are sustainable and not merely a one-off.”

KOD also highlighted the importance of engaging second- and third-generation Ghanaians in the diaspora to maintain their interest in Ghana.

“We are keen to work with young people and organisations like Forum to move things forward,” he added, expressing enthusiasm for the MoU and its potential to foster long-term collaboration.

Meanwhile, project manager for the Roots to Ghana programme, Milli Antwi, emphasised the emotional and practical significance of the initiative.

“It’s important because we are the children of Ghana,” Antwi said. “Many of us were born in Europe, grew up in Europe, and were educated there, but we want to reconnect with our motherland. We love Ghana, even if our knowledge of it is limited.

“Our parents taught us languages like Twi, which we speak with our accents. Now, with our education and financial stability, we want to give back by investing in properties, creating businesses, and joining companies to help them grow with our expertise.”

Antwi added that the partnership will foster impactful projects in Ghana, further strengthening ties with the diaspora.

“This initiative, supported by the EU and GIZ, will significantly contribute to our socio-economic growth,” she concluded.

Ghanaian music icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu, universally celebrated as Daddy Lumba, passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025, following a brief illness.

His death was confirmed in an official statement released by the Fosu family, which described the loss of the highlife maestro with “profound sorrow and deep grief.”

The news triggered an immediate outpouring of shock and tributes across the nation. Fans, fellow artists, and public figures expressed grief over the departure of a musician whose career spanned decades and reshaped Ghana’s cultural landscape. Daddy Lumba’s catalogue of timeless hits, including anthems like “Aben Wo Ha,” “Yeeye Aka Akpeteshie,” and “Obi A Te Me So,” cemented his status as a defining voice in African music.

Emotional reactions flooded social media and public forums. Prominent NPP figure Sammi Awuku reflected on the singer’s philosophical impact, noting how Daddy Lumba’s song “Ankwanoma” (Borrowed Time) poignantly foreshadowed life’s transience.

“He wrapped life’s deepest truths in melody,” Awuku wrote. Other tributes, like those from Theresa Acheampong, Obaapa Love, Gina Owusuwa Royal, and Asare Gabriel, echoed collective heartbreak, with many emphasizing his eternal legacy.

According to the family’s statement, Daddy Lumba built an unparalleled connection with audiences both domestically and within the global diaspora. His innovative fusion of highlife with contemporary sounds attracted generations of listeners, solidifying a loyal fanbase. The Fosu family has yet to announce funeral arrangements but requested privacy during their period of mourning.

The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, called for a bottom-up approach to peacebuilding.

That, he explained, required the engagement of local communities and those affected directly by violence in security planning and decision-making, adding, “Negotiations in boardrooms do not always bring peace,” he stated.

Forum

He made the call at the Sahel Peace Initiative national forum in Accra held on the theme: “Political economy of conflict in Ghana: Addressing youth unemployment as a catalyst for security and social cohesion”.

The national forum was organised as part of the Sahel Peace Initiative (SPI), a regional effort driven by the Catholic Church in West Africa with support from Catholic Relief Services (CRS), to address the escalating violence and instability in the Sahel region.

The initiative aims to foster peace, social cohesion and resilience in communities affected by conflict and violent extremism. 

Inclusive growth

Dr Omane Boamah further underscored the significance of inclusive growth, warning that job creation must be equitably distributed to avoid igniting further conflict.

“No matter the number of jobs created, if they are concentrated in capitals, inequality will fuel unrest,” he said.

In line with this, he announced that the Ghana Armed Forces intended to recruit 12,000 young men and women over the next few years, ensuring that recruitment efforts were spread across various regions to promote regional equity.

Dr Boamah reaffirmed his commitment to the Sahel Peace Initiative, urging all stakeholders to harness the power of faith to build a more peaceful and stable world.

Game-changer

Former Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, stated that the 24-hour development programme as championed by the current government was a game-changer towards tackling unemployment in the country.

The accelerated 24-hour development programme is projected to generate over 827,000 jobs within the first two years, with expectations to reach 1.7 million jobs by 2028 and a staggering 5.2 million jobs by 2034.

Dr Baah, who is also the Executive Director of the Kaizen Institute for Labour and Economics, said should the policy be successfully implemented, unemployment could drop to approximately 12 per cent by 2028, below 10 per cent by 2030, and finally stabilise around four per cent — the natural rate of unemployment — by 2034.

He said despite those projections, there was no guarantee that the programme would succeed, especially if there was change in government, hence the need for such a consensus that not only sustains employment creation policies but prioritised job creation across the entire spectrum. 

Efforts 

The Country Director of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), Anna Lena Sabroso-Wasserfall, said aligning efforts across borders and across sectors could help amplify the positive effect of humanised programmes.

“If we want to build lasting peace across borders, we must tackle the root causes that transcend borders.  And if we are serious about peace building, the youth cannot remain on the sidelines,” she said.

For his part, the President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, Most Rev. Matthew K. Gyamfi, said the high rate of youth unemployment was not simply a development issue but a matter of national security and moral urgency.

He urged participants and the public to look beyond the visible manifestations of discontent and to tackle the economic and political structures that breed resentment and despair.

Asante Kotoko boss Abdul Karim Zito has hailed his side’s tactical maturity and player discipline after securing a hard-fought Toyota Cup win over Kaizer Chiefs in South Africa.

The Ghanaian side showed defensive solidity throughout the game before emerging 3-2 winners on penalties, with goalkeeper Mohammed Camara saving three spot kicks.

In a post-match reaction, Zito underlined the importance of game management given Kotoko’s current status. “With the new players, I was not going to get exactly what I wanted,” he said. “I had to assign responsibilities and rely on them to carry it out.”

The coach admitted that Kaizer Chiefs had the upper hand in terms of match readiness. “You’re ahead in terms of preparation and team cohesion. So I didn’t need to match you head-to-head,” Zito told reporters.

Instead, he banked on solid organisation and quick decision-making. “We didn’t attack too much but defensively we were ready for you,” he added.

The win not only brings a trophy to Kumasi but also builds momentum for Kotoko’s domestic and continental campaigns.

Kofi Bentil, Vice President of policy think tank IMANI Africa, has formally advocated for a fundamental restructuring of Ghana’s local government system.

His detailed proposal, submitted to the chairman of Ghana’s Constitutional Review Committee, Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, calls for the direct election of District Chief Executives (DCEs) and the elimination of Regional Minister positions.

Bentil contends that Ghana’s current governance framework is inefficient and requires transformation starting at the local level. He argues that decentralizing power and enhancing citizen accountability are critical unmet needs within the existing structure. Central to his reform memo is the shift from presidential appointment to the popular election of DCEs. This change, Bentil asserts, would empower local communities directly.

The proposal further recommends replacing the current regional ministerial structure with Regional Assemblies. These assemblies would comprise the elected DCEs from each district within a region. Bentil envisions these assemblies assuming a pivotal role in national governance by electing and appointing Members of Parliament. This model, he suggests, would significantly reduce the size of Parliament and diminish political party influence over local administration.

“The district should be the basic unit of representation not artificial constituencies created by the Electoral Commission,” Bentil stated in his submission. He proposes a significantly smaller Parliament of approximately 100 MPs. These members would be selected through a combination of elections within the new district-based framework and appointments based on professional expertise.

A key element of Bentil’s plan is the complete abolition of Regional Ministers. He views these positions as redundant within a genuinely decentralized system. Under his proposal, the elected DCEs and their collective Regional Assembly would handle both administrative coordination and legislative functions at the regional level, eliminating the need for a separate ministerial layer appointed by the central government in Accra. The memo frames these reforms as essential steps towards creating more competent, accountable, and locally responsive leadership across Ghana.

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova declared on Saturday that Western powers never prioritized resolving the Ukraine conflict through diplomacy.

Official transcripts from her press briefing confirm the assertion that peace negotiations were excluded from Western agendas.

Zakharova stated, “Terms like ‘peace negotiations’ or ‘political settlement’ never reflected the West’s true philosophy.” She emphasized that diplomatic solutions were systematically sidelined. The spokesperson further linked Western policies to heightened anti-Russian sentiment globally.

Her remarks included a call to establish an international day countering Russophobia. Zakharova alleged that such bias enables weapons transfers to Kyiv, resulting in indiscriminate casualties among children. No specific evidence was provided to support these claims.

The Kremlin has repeatedly framed the conflict as a proxy war instigated by NATO states. Independent conflict monitors report over 14,000 civilian deaths in Ukraine since hostilities escalated in 2022.

The Board Chairperson of the Bui Power Authority (BPA), Ambassador Kwadwo Nyamekye Marfo, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to environmental sustainability, describing its afforestation efforts as critical to safeguarding Ghana’s ecological future.

He said initiatives such as the Forest Resource Enhancement Programme (FREP) and the Zero Bushfire Campaign demonstrate that BPA is not only fulfilling its core energy mandate but also contributing significantly to ecological restoration and sustainable development.

Amb Nyamekye Marfo, who was speaking during a tree planting exercise at Bui, said the 2025 “Tree for Life” campaign was more than a ceremonial activity.

“It is an affirmation of our shared responsibility to preserve and regenerate Ghana’s landscape for future generations,” he said.

He noted that witnessing the environmental interventions at Bui had been both humbling and encouraging, adding that the trees planted symbolised hope, resilience, and collective responsibility.

Chief Executive Officer of the BPA, Ing. Kow Eduakwa Sam, noted that the Authority remained committed to integrating climate action into its operations. He explained that BPA’s energy mix—comprising 404 megawatts of hydro, 55 megawatts of solar, and nearly 200 megawatts of solar PV under development—underscored its dedication to clean and sustainable power generation.

Ing. Sam said the FREP, launched in 2012, continues to serve as the Authority’s flagship environmental intervention that promotes afforestation, water conservation, food security, and the protection of natural forests within the Bui enclave and its associated ecosystem.

“Our environmental stewardship is not an add-on; it is central to our operations,” he said, adding that sustainability must move beyond policy into daily practice. “As the saying goes, when the last tree dies, the last man dies,” he stated.

As part of the nationwide campaign to plant seven million trees in line with Ghana’s climate promise under the Paris Agreement (National Determined Contributions) and other global climate goals, BPA is planting a variety of seedlings, including teak, mahogany, ceiba, ofram, metallic, gmelina, and dawadawa.

Mr. Emmanuel Antwi, Deputy Bono Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, commended BPA for its significant contributions and called for stronger public commitment to tree planting and environmental protection.

“We must instil in the citizenry the habit of nurturing trees to maturity to support biodiversity, reduce carbon emissions and contribute to food security,” he urged.

BPA’s Director of Occupational Health, Safety, Security, and Environment, Mr. Chrisentus Bangekewa Kuunifaa, said environmental sustainability has been embedded into the Authority’s operations. He revealed that the reforestation programme at Bui would not only restore degraded lands but also create job opportunities for the youth in the enclave.

Mr. Kuunifaa emphasised that environmental protection must be seen as a national responsibility.

“It is not the job of one leader, one department, or one institution. It is a shared duty for boardrooms, classrooms and communities across the country,” he said.

The launch of the tree planting exercise at Lipo, at the Bui Hydro Dam’s enclave, was well attended by staff of the BPA, representatives from the Forestry Commission, the military, traditional leaders, students, assembly members and others.

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.

Medeama SC are on the verge of completing the signing of Aduana FC forward Kelvin Obeng in what is expected to be a permanent transfer ahead of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.

Sources close to the negotiations have confirmed that talks between the two clubs are far advanced, with only minor details left to finalise the deal. Obeng, known for his direct style and work rate in the final third, has attracted interest from several clubs in the local top flight, but Medeama appear to have won the race for his signature.

The striker had a decent campaign with Aduana Stars, scoring crucial goals and leading the line with maturity. Medeama SC, who are looking to bolster their attack following an underwhelming title defence last season, see Obeng as a key addition who can provide consistent goal-scoring threat and competition in the forward line.

The move is also seen as part of the club’s broader plan to rebuild their squad with experienced domestic players who understand the demands of the Ghana Premier League.

If all goes according to plan, Obeng is expected to be unveiled by Medeama in the coming days, adding to what is shaping up to be an ambitious transfer window for the Tarkwa-based club.

Bournemouth forward Daniel Adu-Adjei has disclosed his ambition of representing Ghana at international level despite the option of playing for England. 

The London-born forward is eyeing a breakthrough campaign in the upcoming season after travelling with the Cherries to USA for pre-season.

The English-Ghanaian attacker netted his first senior goal for Bournemouth in the 3-0 thumping of Everton in the opening match of the Premier League Summer Series at MetLife Stadium.

Despite showing great potential in the youth teams of Bournemouth, the 20-year-old has yet to represent England at any level, prompting the attention of Ghana’s Football Association.

“Yea, I think so. I’d love to play for Ghana,” he told GHANASoccernet in an exclusive interview. “Obviously, both my parents were born there, grew up there so I’d love to do it,” he added.

Adu-Adjei has been following the Black Stars with teammate Antoine Semenyo being a key member of the Black Stars.

“I’ve seen them. How they are doing, how they are getting on with stuffs and I have seen Antoine play for them at the moment and it’s good to see him do well with them.”

Although Adu-Adjei did not see Anthony Yeboah play, the talented forward is a huge fan of the former Black Stars striker, something his father passed onto him.

“I think Tony Yeboah. My dad had videos of him so I kind of watch those old clips,” he said.

Adu-Adjei will be hoping to be a regular member of Andoni Iraola’s team next season.

By Herbert Boakye Yiadom

Ghana expects to sign four bilateral debt restructuring agreements by end-July 2025, a critical step toward reviving frozen infrastructure projects and meeting IMF targets.

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson announced the pending accords during the Mid-Year Budget Review, linking them to the resumption of funding for 24 priority projects slated for completion by 2028.

The agreements part of Ghana’s IMF Extended Credit Facility commitments aim to unlock suspended disbursements. Economist Dr. Daniel Amateye Anim cautioned that while the deals offer “breathing room,” their impact hinges on disciplined execution: “They signal debt sustainability to markets but require revenue-backed follow-through.” Ghana paid GHS9.8 billion in domestic debt coupons in H1 2025, with GHS10.2 billion due in H2.

From August, the government will establish sinking funds targeting GHS115.75 billion for domestic debt and $3.73 billion for Eurobond redemptions through 2028. Anim praised the buffers as “fiscally mature” but warned against over-reliance, stressing that lasting recovery demands plugging revenue leaks and streamlining regulations. The move could reactivate construction and manufacturing sectors if paired with structural reforms.

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is advancing plans to adopt Non-Interest Banking and Finance (NIBF), signaling potential integration of Sukuk bonds to address infrastructure gaps.

Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama highlighted the model’s global traction exceeding $5.5 trillion during talks with religious leaders, positioning clergy as key allies for public education and ethical finance adoption.

Sukuk bonds, interest-free instruments backed by tangible assets, were underscored as proven tools. Nigeria’s $2.37 billion Sukuk programme funded 4,100km of roads and bridges, while South Africa’s 2014 debut raised $500 million, oversubscribed fourfold.

Ghana aims to replicate such successes to meet its $37.9 billion annual infrastructure shortfall, per UN estimates.

The initiative aligns with broader African adoption in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, plus non-African markets like the UK and Malaysia. Though Ghana’s regulatory framework remains under development, BoG’s outreach signals intent to tap ethical finance for development without debt-based interest.

Nigeria staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 and clinch their 10th TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the Stade Olympique in Rabat on Saturday, July 26, 2025.

Trailing 2-0 at half-time in front of a raucous home crowd, the Super Falcons displayed their trademark resilience and clinical finishing to overturn the deficit, reaffirming their status as the queens of African football.

Goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and a late winner from Joe Echegini sealed the victory, stunning the Atlas Lionesses, who had hoped to capture a historic first continental crown on home soil.

The final delivered all the drama expected of a classic encounter — a host nation looking to cap a golden era with silverware, and Africa’s most decorated team determined to reassert their dominance.

Morocco made a dream start, silencing early nerves in the 12th minute when captain Ghizlane Chebbak unleashed a brilliant long-range strike that curled past Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

The crowd erupted with renewed belief, and just 12 minutes later, the hosts doubled their lead. Ibtissam Jraidi threaded a precise through ball to Sanaâ Mssoudy, who finished coolly into the bottom right corner.

Nigeria looked shell-shocked as they went into the break trailing 2-0, facing an uphill battle.

But head coach Justin Madugu’s halftime team talk sparked a spirited response from the Super Falcons.

The comeback began just past the hour mark when VAR confirmed a handball by Moroccan defender Nouhaila Benzina. Esther Okoronkwo stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to make it 2-1.

With momentum shifting, Okoronkwo turned provider in the 71st minute, threading a clever ball into the path of Ijamilusi, who fired a low left-footed strike into the corner to level the score.

As extra time loomed, Nigeria struck the decisive blow in the 88th minute. A well-rehearsed set-piece found Okoronkwo again at the heart of the action, delivering a deft assist to Echegini, who slotted home to complete the dramatic turnaround.

Morocco mounted late pressure in search of an equalizer, but the Super Falcons held firm through tense stoppage time to secure a historic win.

It was a heartbreaking end for Jorge Vilda’s Morocco side, who had impressed throughout the tournament and were aiming to become just the third nation — after Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea — to win the WAFCON title.

But the night ultimately belonged to the Super Falcons. Their experience, depth, and indomitable spirit powered them to a 10th African crown in 13 editions — a record that underlines their enduring supremacy.

Nigeria’s triumph not only extends their unparalleled legacy but also sends a clear message: even amid rising challengers, they remain the standard-bearers of African women’s football.

Ghana’s currency has surged by 42.6% against the U.S. dollar in 2025, marking its strongest performance in decades, yet analysts question its long-term durability.

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson hailed the cedi’s “exceptional resilience” during the Mid-Year Budget Review, noting it reversed 2022–2024 depreciation trends with gains of 30.3% against the pound and 25.6% versus the euro.

Advisory firm Cnergy Global Holdings credited the rebound to Bank of Ghana (BoG) interventions and reserves covering 4.6 months of imports, bolstered by the Gold for Reserve (GOLDBOD) program. However, it warned that scaling back BoG’s market support as advised by the IMF to enhance exchange rate flexibility could undermine stability. External risks include U.S. tariff disputes, geopolitical tensions, and volatile commodity prices, though a projected 12% drop in global commodity costs may offset some pressure.

Sustaining the gains, Cnergy stressed, hinges on policy coordination across initiatives like the 24-Hour Economy and Agriculture for Economic Transformation. While the rebound offers relief to households and businesses, maintaining it requires navigating an unpredictable global landscape.

Stonebwoy has taken to Facebook to express his profound sorrow at the passing of a highlife music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.

Daddy Lumba died in the early hours of Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Bank Hospital in Accra, where he had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness.

Stonebwoy, whose real name is Livingstone Etse Satekla, is widely known for blending Afro-dancehall with traditional Ghanaian elements.

Several Ghanaian celebrities and politicians also expressed sorrow following the passing of the veteran musician.

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.

Nigeria had not been shy in expressing their intentions of winning their 10th Wafcon, with players consistently asked about that target in media engagements.

The Super Falcons have certainly backed up their off-field talk in their performances in Morocco this month as coach Justin Madugu found the right blend in the knockout phase.

Yet the top-ranked side in Africa made a poor start and Nigeria were unable to match Morocco’s level in the first half.

The North Africans went ahead in the 13th minute when Halimatu Ayinde gave the ball to Chebbak, who sent a fine shot just inside the left-hand upright, and doubled their lead 11 minutes later when Mssoudy shot across goal.

Okoronkwo was composure personified after the intervention of VAR to make it 2-1 from the spot, and then kept her head when she burst through the Morocco defence to control, pause and put the ball on a plate for Ijamilusi.

Another big moment came when Morocco were awarded a penalty in the 79th minute when Imane Saoud helped a cross onto the hand of Blessing Demehin, who was barely two yards away.

Chebbak had the ball on the spot when Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa was called to the VAR screen and overturned her decision almost four minutes later.

And the comeback was completed when Okoronkwo provided a pin-point free-kick delivery and Echegini got ahead of centre-back Benzina to sweep home from six yards out.

The West Africans have now beaten a third host nation in a Wafcon final following successes over South Africa and Cameroon in 2000 and 2016 respectively.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Ghanaian highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.

In a statement released Saturday, the party extended its deepest condolences to Lumba’s family, friends, and fans, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to music and national life.

“Daddy Lumba, celebrated for his distinctive voice and timeless melodies, has long stood as a symbol of cultural pride,” the NPP said.

“Through his music, he masterfully told stories of love, hope, and resilience, touching lives across generations.”

The party also noted Lumba’s influential role in its political journey, particularly through the iconic “Nana Ye Winner” campaign song, which featured in the NPP’s 2008, 2012, and 2016 election campaigns.

“His melodious contribution remains deeply etched in the political history of our tradition and the country,” the statement said.

Beyond politics, the NPP praised the late musician’s dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

“We mourn this great loss together with the millions of fans who found joy, comfort, and meaning in his music,” the statement added.

The party stated that Daddy Lumba’s influence will endure, inspiring future generations of artists and music lovers.

“He will be remembered not only for his immense contributions to music but also for his role in uplifting and uniting the Ghanaian spirit.”

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.

Ghanaian music legend Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, has died.

His family confirmed the sad news in a press release issued on Saturday, saying the 60-year-old passed away earlier in the day after a short illness.

“It is with profound sorrow and deep grief that the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon,” the statement read.

Daddy Lumba was one of Ghana’s most celebrated highlife musicians. With a career spanning more than three decades, his songs touched millions, telling stories of love, pain, joy, and hope.

He was known for his powerful voice, emotional lyrics, and unique style that made him a household name across the country and beyond.

“His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience,” the family said.

The family has asked for privacy as they mourn their loss and promised to announce funeral arrangements in the coming days.

The statement was signed by Fati Ali Yallah, a lawyer from Baba Jamal & Associates, on behalf of the Fosu family.

Fans, fellow musicians, and Ghanaians across the country have started pouring out tributes on social media, remembering Daddy Lumba’s unmatched contribution to Ghanaian music.