Economist Professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin says the power distribution system, particularly the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), is heading toward collapse without urgent reforms and private sector participation.

Speaking on Newsfile on Saturday, May 17, Prof. Bokpin said the current model of ECG operations is unsustainable and cannot support the country’s development ambitions, including the proposed 24-hour economy.

“I’ve said it before that apart from irresponsible mining, including illegal mining, what causes me sleepless nights is the energy sector,” he said.

“Given the two main political parties that have had an opportunity to manage that sector, we can no longer do politics with it.”

Prof. Bokpin pointed to the performance of both the NDC and NPP governments, noting that both have confronted similar challenges in the sector.

“They are all saying the same thing — that there are fundamental issues that need to be resolved. That gives me comfort, because we are at a stage where politicisation doesn’t help.”

He revealed that distribution losses on ECG’s books are dangerously high.

“It’s about some 40%, which is very high. Even if you are doing 15%, it is very high. With that level of losses, you cannot talk about realistic pricing. You cannot pass on all those losses to the ultimate consumer.”

Collection losses, he noted, are another major concern.

“We are looking at close to 15% again. That’s above the world average, and it’s not sustainable.”

Beyond technical and commercial losses, he also raised concerns about unpaid bills by government institutions.

“There are ministries, departments and agencies. You heard the minister saying it’s about time they take responsibility for their energy consumption,” he said.

“Somebody once reminded me, have I noticed where ice blocks come from in this country for pure water sellers? Somebody said, probably from police stations. I’m not saying it’s true. But all these sensitive installations that are not paying for electricity — there is no way we can see a future in this direction.”

He questioned the feasibility of government’s 24-hour economy vision when the current 8-hour economic cycle is already strained by power supply issues.

“Here you have a government talking about a 24-hour economy. You are not even getting power for your 8-hour economy.”

Prof. Bokpin strongly advocated for private sector participation in power distribution and collection, but not necessarily the sale of ECG.

“Government can still be the sole shareholder of ECG, but we should be able to invite the private sector in the distribution of power and collection. This will require them to bring in capital and efficiency.”

He acknowledged there are internal issues within ECG, including poor procurement practices and political interference.

“If you put all these things together and look at internal issues with ECG, procurement, management, interference, I think we are at the point where we should all support government in some kind of private sector participation.”

He linked the urgency of reform to Ghana’s current IMF-supported program, under which the government has clear structural benchmarks.

“I believe there are structural reforms under the IMF-supported program with respect to how ECG ought to be managed. There are clear indicators that government has to meet.”

Prof. Bokpin said a cabinet decision is pending on the matter and urged transparent communication.

“I know cabinet has to take a decision on ECG in terms of private sector participation. Government must communicate this clearly to Ghanaians.”

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The spokesperson for the European Union’s Foreign Affairs and Security Policy reiterated on Friday that “neither the EU nor any of its Member States recognise the so-called ‘SADR’.”

The statement was made in response to a question regarding the upcoming European Union–African Union ministerial meeting, set to take place next Wednesday in Brussels.

The spokesperson noted that the EU-AU ministerial meetings are co-chaired and jointly organised by both Unions.

Any potential presence of the so-called “SADR” at the meeting, the spokesperson emphasised, would be attributed to the African Union’s arrangements, not the EU’s invitation.

He stressed that the EU’s position remains unchanged: “Neither the EU nor any of its Member States recognise the so-called ‘SADR’,”

The spokesperson added that the entity’s possible attendance at the meeting “has no bearing on this position.”

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Economist Professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin says the worsening energy crisis should no longer be treated as a political issue.

He warns that failure to urgently reform the sector under the IMF programme could cripple the economy.

Speaking on Newsfile on Saturday, May 17, he said the crisis is now more alarming than illegal mining and threatens the foundation of any serious economic plan.

“I’ve said it before that, apart from irresponsible mining, including illegal mining, what causes me sleepless nights is the energy sector,” he declared.

“We’ve seen both the NDC and NPP manage this sector. And frankly, we can no longer do politics with it.”

Prof. Bokpin said the track records of the two main political parties show that neither has resolved the fundamental issues that continue to sink the power sector.

“Clearly, they are all saying the same thing—that there are fundamental issues that need to be resolved. That gives me comfort because we are at a stage where politicisation doesn’t help.”

He warned that the distribution losses of the Electricity Company of Ghana are now dangerously high.

“The distribution losses on the books of ECG are way above the world average. It’s about some 40%, which is very high.

“Even if you are doing 15%, it is very high. With that level of losses, in economics, you cannot talk about realistic pricing. You cannot pass on all those losses to the ultimate consumer.”

He also raised concerns about the revenue collection gap.

“We are looking at close to 15% in collection losses. That’s above the world average. It’s not sustainable.”

Beyond these, he said, pricing, tariff gaps, and the refusal of government entities to pay their bills only make things worse.

“You’ve heard the minister say that it’s about time ministries, departments, and agencies take responsibility for their energy consumption,” he said.

“Then you also want to add sensitive installations of government where they don’t pay electricity bills. Somebody once reminded me, have I noticed where ice blocks come from in this country for pure water sellers? Somebody said it’s probably from police stations. I’m not saying this is true, but these are the questions being asked.”

He painted a bleak future if the current structure remains unchanged.

“If you put all these things together—MDAs not paying, collection losses, distribution losses, pricing inefficiencies—there is no way we can see a future in this direction.”

Prof. Bokpin questioned the government’s push for a 24-hour economy in light of the current crisis.

“Here you have a government talking about a 24-hour economy. You are not even getting power for your eight-hour economy, and you are talking about a 24-hour economy?”

He proposed involving the private sector in the downstream distribution chain while maintaining government ownership.

“I believe we should support government in some kind of private sector participation in downstream distribution. That may be different from saying we are selling ECG.

“Government can still be the sole shareholder, but we must invite the private sector in power distribution and collection. Let them bring capital and efficiency.”

He was clear that the status quo is not working. “On this current model, I don’t think it is sustainable.”

Prof. Bokpin said structural reforms tied to the IMF programme demand that government act now.

“There are clear indicators that government has to meet as part of our ongoing IMF-supported programme. I know cabinet has to take a decision on ECG in terms of private sector participation. And I believe that government must communicate this clearly to Ghanaians.”

He urged transparency and urgency. “We are at a point where delay is dangerous. Let us take this out of politics and fix it—for real.”

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 The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) has announced the formation of respective working committees for the organisation of the Golden Jubilee edition of its flagship annual awards.

The committees include the 50th SWAG Awards Planning Committee and the SWAG Awards Nominations committee.

The committees, according to a statement signed by the asso­ciation’s president, Mr Kwabena Yeboah, will play crucial roles in the planning of a memorable 50th anniversary of the prestigious SWAG Awards and identify out­standing sports perfomers.

The Planning Committee would be chaired by Mr Dickson Kyere Duah, a Member of Parliament for Berekum West and Bono Regional Vice Chairman of the SWAG.

Miss Rosalind Amoh, a Deputy Editor of the Daily Graphic, would also chair the SWAG Awards Nominations Committee.

Other members of the SWAG Awards Committee are Mr Kwad­wo Baah Agyemang, former CEO of Ghana Digital Centre, Mr Mau­rice Quansah, Sports Editor of Graphic Communications Group Limited, and Ms Rosemary Mbro­ba Gaisie, formerly of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation.

The rest are Ms Veronica Com­mey, Deputy Director General of the National Sports Authority, Mr Sammy Heywood Okine, a former Deputy SWAG General Secretary, Mr William Dodzi Ezah, former SWAG General Secretary, Mr. Kenneth Odeng Adade, Deputy General Secretary of SWAG, and Mr Charles Kwadwo Ntim of Homebase Media.

Expected to support Ms Roslind Koramah Amoh, on the Awards Nomination Committee are Mr Kyei Baffour representing SWAG Western and Western North, Bright Yeboah Taylor, Sports Statistician and Historian, and Ga­briel Obu, expert in least financed sports.

Others are Matilda Dimedo, Women’s football, Francis Ofori from the SWAG Secretariat, Prince Obiba Ayim Poakwa, SWAG Greater Accra, Davis Attuquaye Clottey, SWAG Volta/Oti, Pre­cious Sermevor, SWAG Bono/ Ahafo, John Kwasi Arthur, SWAG Central, and Francis Okyere, SWAG Eastern.

“We are thrilled to announce these committees as we prepare to celebrate 50 years of the SWAG Awards. Their dedication and expertise will be instrumental in making this anniversary celebration a memorable one.

“The members of both commit­tees bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in sports journal­ism, administration, and event planning. SWAG is confident that their collective efforts will result in a successful and impactful celebra­tion,” the statement indicated.

 BY TIMES SPORTS

REPORTER

Carlos Alcaraz ended world number one Jannik Sinner’s 26-match winning streak with a 7-6 (7-5) 6-1 win in the Italian Open final.

Sinner, playing in his first tournament since a three-month doping ban, was hoping to become the first Italian men’s singles winner at the tournament since Adriano Panatta in 1976.

But after edging a tense tie-break, four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz was a class above in the second set.

Sinner had two set points in the first set but hit a backhand return wide to let reigning French Open champion Alcaraz off the hook.

The 22-year-old Spaniard took full advantage with some masterful play in the second set, sealing the title with a cross-court volley at the net.

“I’m just really happy to get my first Rome Alcaraz ends Sinner’s streak to win Italian Open, hopefully it’s not going to be the last one,” said Alcaraz.

“The first thing I want to say is that I’m just really happy to see Jannik back at this amazing level.

“I’m sure it wasn’t easy for him coming back after three months and making the final is something insane, so I have to congratulate him.

“I’m proud of myself, with the way I approached the match mentally. Tactically, I think I played pretty well from the first point until the last one.”

Sinner’s winning run stretched back to October – when Alcaraz beat him in the China Open final.

“There have been a few months that weren’t easy,” Sinner said.

“It’s been a great result just to be here in the final. I tried today, but that’s all I had. It was a good test.”

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  By James Amoh Junior, GNA   

Accra, May 18, GNA – A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), development partners, and youth-led movements is demanding urgent fiscal reforms and a paradigm shift in Ghana’s financing for development strategy.   

The demand comes amid concerns over rising debt levels, inequality, and dwindling international aid.  

The organisations are calling on government to adopt progressive taxation measures that ensure the wealthy and multinational corporations contribute their fair share while safeguarding the interests of vulnerable populations.   

They are also urging stronger enforcement against illicit financial flows, investment in public services, and a shift toward climate-resilient and gender-responsive budgeting.  

Specifically, the CSOs want government and development partners to implement systemic reforms to repatriate stolen wealth, eliminate tax avoidance mechanisms, and reinvest in social infrastructure including health, education, water, and sanitation.   

They argued that public financing decisions must centre on equity, justice, and long-term sustainability, particularly in light of the harsh economic realities faced by ordinary Ghanaians.  

These demands were made at the National Civil Society Dialogue on Financing for Development (F4D) held in Accra.   

The forum, organised by ActionAid Ghana, brought together a wide array of stakeholders including OXFAM, CARE, Plan International, ISODEC, ABANTU for Development, NETRIGHT, Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), Amnesty   

International Ghana, the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI), Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Tax Justice Networks, and various youth-led groups.  

Mr John Nkaw, Country Director of ActionAid Ghana, said the economic crisis Ghana currently faced was not accidental but structural and rooted in a global system that privileged the wealthy at the expense of developing nations.  

He noted that Ghana’s economic situation mirrored global trends, with the country’s public debt reaching over GH¢608 billion by the close of 2023.   

He explained that this figure went beyond just economic pressure  as it symbolized halted development projects, shortages in essential public services, and the growing number of young people left without opportunities.  

Mr Nkaw stated that in 2024 alone, low-and middle-income countries spent a combined US$138 billion servicing debt – resources he argued could have significantly improved the living conditions of millions if redirected toward development.   

He described Ghana’s situation as “a crisis engineered by a global economic order” and noted that foreign aid, such as USAID support, had dropped by as much as 90 per cent.  

The ActionAid Ghana Country Director urged CSOs to “move from rhetoric to resistance, from conversation to coordinated action,” stressing that the country’s economic future could not be left to market forces alone.  

“This must be the launch of a sustained movement, one that challenges injustice and reclaims our economic sovereignty,” he added.  

Mr Bernard Anaba, Policy and Programmes Lead at ISODEC, who provided a technical perspective on Ghana’s debt trajectory, explained that the current model of rolling over debt and increasing reliance on private capital markets was unsustainable.   

He pointed to widespread tax evasion, capital flight, and privatisation of strategic sectors as key reasons why government revenue had dwindled.  

“Multinational corporations and private equity funds are controlling key parts of our economy while illicit financial flows continue to drain resources that could fund development,” he said.   

He recommended comprehensive tax reforms, formalisation of the informal economy, tightening laws on capital transfers, and coordinated international advocacy for debt cancellation as essential steps toward restoring fiscal stability.  

The dialogue featured a panel discussion on alternative financing solutions for Ghana, with presentations by Ms Genevieve Partington, Country Director of Amnesty International Ghana; Ms Nana Asantewa Afadzinu, Executive Director of WACSI among others.   

Ms Partington underscored the importance of leveraging innovative domestic financing mechanisms, particularly taxation and crowdfunding, to support national development.  

She stressed that a fair and progressive tax system was crucial for ensuring that those with higher income and wealth contributed proportionately more to the public purse.  

According to her, this approach not only helped reduce inequality but also built a more just and equitable society where the burden of financing development did not fall disproportionately on the poor.  

Ms Partington also highlighted the growing potential of crowdfunding as an alternative financing tool, especially for social initiatives, explaining that crowdfunding could democratise resource mobilisation by allowing citizens, particularly the youth and civil society actors, to contribute directly to causes they cared about.   

The Amnesty International Ghana Country Director noted that when properly harnessed that model could complement traditional financing and empower communities to take ownership of development projects.  

Mrs Nana Asantewa Afadzinu, Executive Director of the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI), advocated for the establishment of a dedicated “Ghana Fund or Ghana Aid” as a strategic response to the country’s development financing challenges.  

She argued that such a fund, owned and managed by Ghanaians, would serve as a reliable and sustainable pool of resources to support national priorities without overreliance on foreign aid or external debt.  

She further advocated for a national development framework owned and driven by Ghanaians and said, “We must no longer be recipients of policies; we must be designers of our own economic future.”  

Mrs Afadzinu called for stronger collaboration among CSOs, academia, and local governments to ensure that financing policies were grounded in evidence and reflected citizens’ priorities.  

The stakeholder pledged to build a unified civil society platform to influence both national policies and global financing frameworks for  inclusive development.  

Among others, the stakeholders resolved to press for innovative, transparent, and accountable financing solutions that prioritise the rights and dignity of all Ghanaians.  

GNA  

CA

Gary Lineker is set to leave the BBC with an announcement expected on Monday.

Speculation is mounting that the 64-year-old will step down after he presents his final Match of the Day next weekend.

Lineker, listed as the highest-paid BBC presenter, had been due to remain at the forefront of the BBC’s coverage of next season’s FA Cup and the World Cup in 2026, despite previously announcing he will leave Match of the Day at the end of this season.

But last week, he had to apologise after sharing a social media post about Zionism that included an illustration of a rat, historically used as an antisemitic insult.

Lineker said he very much regretted the references, adding he would never knowingly share anything antisemitic.

Last week, BBC Director General Tim Davie said: “The BBC’s reputation is held by everyone, and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us.”

It is understood that BBC bosses considered Lineker’s position untenable.

The former England striker has attracted criticism before for his posts on social media in the past.

He was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over a post in which he said language used to promote a government asylum policy was “not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s”.

The BBC’s social media rules were then rewritten to say presenters of flagship programmes outside news and current affairs – including Match of the Day – have “a particular responsibility to respect the BBC’s impartiality, because of their profile on the BBC”.

In November 2024, Lineker announced his departure from Match of the Day, but said he would remain with the BBC to front FA Cup and World Cup coverage.

In an interview earlier this year about leaving, Lineker said he believed the BBC wanted him to leave Match of the Day as he was negotiating a new contract last year, saying: “Well, perhaps they want me to leave. There was the sense of that.”

The BBC didn’t comment on Lineker’s suggestion at the time but called him a “world-class presenter” and added that Match of the Day “continually evolves for changing viewing habits”.

Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan have been announced as new presenters of the show for the start of the 2025-26 season.

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In a thrilling finale, Police Ladies claimed their first-ever Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League title with a 2-0 victory over defending champions Ampem Darkoa Ladies at the University of Ghana Stadium.

Jane Ayieyam broke the deadlock in the 27th minute with a calm finish, giving Police Ladies a deserved lead.

Despite Ampem Darkoa’s relentless push for an equalizer, Police Ladies’ disciplined defense and goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan’s exceptional performance thwarted their efforts.

As the game neared full time, substitute Victoria Teye Williams sealed the win with a goal in the 89th minute, ending Ampem Darkoa’s dominance and crowning a new champion in Ghanaian women’s football.

This historic win marks a significant milestone for Police Ladies, who have steadily grown over the years to reach the summit of domestic women’s football.

As a reward, the civilian players in the team will be enlisted into the Ghana Police Service.

Police Ladies will now represent Ghana in the CAF Women’s Champions League.

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Zeqblog Blog of Sunday, 18 May 2025

Source: Okine Isaac

• Antoine Semenyo exploded onto the scene with 11 goals and 7 assists in all competitions for Bournemouth, earning interest from Man United
• Despite injuries, Thomas Partey returned to help Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal reach the Champions League semi-finals
• Mohammed Kudus showed glimpses of brilliance at West Ham United but worryingly underperformed overall

In this article, YEN.com.gh takes a look at Ghana’s finest players in the 2024/25 English Premier League season.

From breakout seasons to hard-fought battles in midfield, the Ghanaian contingent has offered moments of magic and glimpses of brilliance.

While some have soared, others have struggled to hit the heights expected. Here’s our definitive ranking of the top five Ghanaian players in the Premier League this season.

1. Antoine Semenyo – Bournemouth

Antoine Semenyo has emerged as not just the standout Ghanaian in the Premier League this season, but arguably one of the best-performing strikers across the division.

With 11 goals and 7 assists in the 2024/25 campaign, per Transfermarkt, the Bournemouth forward has been a revelation.

Semenyo’s influence has been instrumental in Bournemouth’s solid mid-table finish, with the former Bristol City man scoring back-to-back Premier League goals against Manchester United this season.

More impressively, his performances haven’t gone unnoticed by the Premier League giants, with the Red Devils of manager Ruben Amorim reportedly eyeing him as their top striker target this summer.

In a season where many established names have faltered, Semenyo’s consistency, hunger, and match-winning displays place him firmly at the summit of Ghana’s top performers in the 2024/25 Premier League.

2. Thomas Partey – Arsenal

Though injuries limited his minutes earlier in the season, Thomas Partey returned at a crucial time to anchor Arsenal’s midfield during the business end of the campaign.

Mikel Arteta’s side made a deep run to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and are on course to finish second in the Premier League.

Partey, when fit, brought calm, experience, and defensive stability to Arsenal’s engine room as he demonstrated in Arsenal’s Champions League dominance over Real Madrid with a high-level performance.

While he didn’t light up the stat sheet like Semenyo, Partey’s tactical intelligence and leadership made him an indispensable part of one of Europe’s most formidable teams.

Overall, given his display in the UEFA Champions League as well his some top Premier League performances from the ex-Atletico Madrid player, 2024/25 was decent for Thomas.

3. Mohammed Kudus – West Ham United

Expectations were sky-high when Mohammed Kudus made his Premier League debut, and while he’s shown flashes of brilliance, the season has ultimately fallen short of the hype.

In 31 league appearances, Kudus has managed just 4 goals and 3 assists, a modest return for a player once touted to take the league by storm.

Despite the underwhelming stats, Kudus remains a talent capable of brilliance, and a stronger showing in 2025/26 could catapult him up these rankings in the future if he stay in the Premier League.

4. Jordan Ayew – Leicester City

Leicester City’s return to the Premier League has ended in heartbreak, with relegation confirmed after a season plagued by inconsistency.

Jordan Ayew, who joined the Foxes in a surprise move, managed 6 goals and 1 assist in 35 appearances.

However, much of his time was spent coming off the bench or playing in unfamiliar roles.

As a veteran in a young and faltering team, he lacked the service to truly impact games.

While his numbers weren’t disastrous, his influence waned as the season progressed, especially under new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.

It remains to be seen whether Ayew stays in the top flight or looks abroad for his next challenge.

5. Kamaldeen Sulemana – Southampton

After a promising start, his influence dipped as injuries and tactical tweaks limited his effectiveness.

In 30 appearances, he notched 5 goals but failed to register an assist, underscoring a lack of end product in the final third for relegated Southampton.

His raw pace and direct style of play remain his strongest assets, but the winger often struggled with decision-making and finishing.

Still young and brimming with potential, the Ghanaian international has the tools to become a Premier League mainstay, he just needs refinement.

Mohammed Kudus to leave West Ham United

YEN.com.gh earlier reported the latest West Ham United transfer news regarding Mohammed Kudus, with the Hammers reportedly willing to offload the Ghanaian midfielder if they receive the right price.

The Black Stars playmaker, who dazzled at Old Trafford in West Ham’s win, has a contract with Graham Potter’s side that runs until June 2028, but the Premier League outfit are said to be ready to sell one of their most valuable assets in Kudus to fund their 2025/26 rebuilding exercise.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Police Ladies made history on Sunday, May 18, by claiming their first-ever Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League title with a 2-0 victory over defending champions Ampem Darkoa Ladies at the University of Ghana Stadium.

In a highly anticipated final, Jane Ayieyam broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, calmly finishing off a well-worked move to give Police Ladies a deserved lead.

Ampem Darkoa, who were chasing a third successive league crown, pushed for an equaliser but were repeatedly thwarted by a disciplined Police defence and the safe hands of goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan.

As the game neared full time, substitute Victoria Teye Williams struck in the 89th minute to double the advantage and seal a famous victory for Police Ladies, ending Ampem Darkoa’s dominance and crowning a new champion in Ghanaian women’s football.

The triumph marks a significant milestone for Police Ladies, who have grown steadily over the years and now stand at the summit of the domestic women’s game.

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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In a landmark initiative aimed at revolutionising the marketing communications sector in Ghana, Publicis West Africa has signed an affiliate agreement with Empire Marcomm, a leader in below-the-line (BTL) and experiential marketing in Ghana.

This partnership heralds a new era for both brands, characterised by innovation, integration, and impactful engagement at a local market level.

The affiliate agreement launches under the bold and dynamic banner, “EMPIRE, POWERED BY PUBLICIS” and represents the powerful collaboration that merges Empire’s extensive local expertise and creative adaptability with the global strategic capabilities of Publicis.

The partnership also facilitates the provision of comprehensive marketing solutions that are immersive, data-driven, and culturally relevant.

“We are excited to embark on this new chapter in our journey, which significantly enhances our impact within the Ghanaian market,” stated Koo Govender, CEO of Publicis Groupe Africa.

“Empire’s remarkable track record in experiential marketing, when combined with our extensive global reach, creates a formidable synergy of creativity and execution.” Said Anand Badami, SVP, Publicis West Africa.

 In the words of Bola Ray, the founder and Executive Director of Empire, “it’s going to be a game changer” with Empire coming under the umbrella of the world’s leading communications network.

With this momentum, the alliance is well-positioned to uncover new opportunities, broaden its client portfolio, and establish new standards for brand engagement in Ghana and beyond.

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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 Bank of Ghana’s policy rate is expected to be held steady at 28%, with any cut contingent on disinflation progress.

According to Databank Research, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will likely adopt a wait-and-see stance to gauge the impact of prior tightening.

The MPC is expected to commence its quarterly sitting from May 21, 2025, to May 23, 2025. A decision on the policy rate will be made at the meeting and consequently announced to the press.

According to Databank Research, barring internal or external shocks, its projections suggest a steady disinflation path, likely settling between 17–19% by mid-year on base effects and stable prices.

“This should allow for a measured easing of 100–200bps [basis points] by late July 2025. As 91-day yields continue to anchor the Ghana Reference Rate (GRR), we expect a gradual improvement in private sector credit, reinforcing prospects for rate cuts in 2H’25 [second-half year of 2025]”, it pointed out.

The Bank of Ghana in March 2025 raised its benchmark indicator by 100 basis points to 28.0%.

It cited high inflation, saying inflation needs to be anchored.

“As inflation becomes firmly anchored, the Committee will reassess the scope for a gradual easing in the policy stance”, it added

In addition to the adjustment in the policy rate, the Bank of Ghana implemented complementary measures to strengthen liquidity management and enhance monetary policy transmission.

In this regard, introduce a 273-day instrument to augment the existing sterilization toolkit, intensify the monitoring of banks’ Net Open Positions (NOPs) to ensure compliance and review the current structure of the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) to assess its broader impact on liquidity conditions and financial intermediation in the economy.

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Wendy Adjeley Adjei, a Ghanaian scholar

Wendy Adjeley Adjei, a Ghanaian scholar, has earned the prestigious Best Graduate Paper in Migration Studies Award at the University of Missouri, Columbia, United States of America (USA).

Adjei, a former student of La St Paul’s Anglican 2 JHS and Ningo Senior High School, has journeyed from the coastal classrooms of Ghana to the forefront of health advocacy in the USA.

After earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Cape Coast, Adjei was awarded a full scholarship to pursue a master’s degree in communication at Purdue University.

Today, she is a rising scholar in the Ph D programme in Health Communication at the University of Missouri-Columbia, one of the top public research universities in the U S, where she once again earned a full scholarship for her academic excellence and promise.

Adjei’s research is both timely and transformative. Her scholarly work addresses some of the most pressing and sensitive issues in U S healthcare today: patient-provider communication in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), maternal and child health disparities, birth equity, and reproductive justice in the U S.

Through her research, she amplifies the voices of women, especially migrant and marginalized mothers, who are often left unheard in healthcare conversations.

At the Interdisciplinary Migration Studies Institute’s inaugural conference held in May, themed “Borders, Mobility, and Migration in the 21st Century,” Wendy presented her groundbreaking study, “Feeding Across Borders: An Intersectional Analysis of Feeding Experiences of Migrant Mothers in the US.”

Her work, which challenges dominant narratives and exposes structural barriers faced by migrant mothers, earned her the prestigious Best Graduate Paper in Migration Studies Award.

This honour is granted to students whose scholarship demonstrates academic rigour and a deep commitment to equity and social transformation.

Adjei was also recognized with the Outstanding Graduate Service Award at the University of Missouri for her hands-on contributions to campus and community health.

She serves in the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center and holds NICU infants at the University of Missouri Hospital, blending her academic expertise with deep human compassion. Her work transcends theory, it lives in practice.

Adjei is not only contributing to knowledge production in the U S health system but also shaping how it listens to, cares for, and respects underrepresented communities.

As a scholar from Ghana, she carries the hopes of many and exemplifies what it means to rise from modest beginnings to make a global impact.

AM/KA

As part of their 25th anniversary celebrations, the Ɔdadeɛ 2000 group of the prestigious Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC-Legon) has announced plans to renovate the school’s kitchen and introduce a sustainable green energy system.

A member of the group, Alain Gbeasor shared details of the project during the anniversary launch event which took place in the school on Saturday, May 17.

He explained that the initiative is aimed at improving the living and learning conditions of students on campus while also promoting sustainability.

“As part of our 25 years anniversary celebrations, we are embarking on a programme to renovate our kitchen and then create a sustainable green energy kitchen,” he said.

Mr Gbeasor stated that the group plans to completely retool and retrofit the kitchen area to give it a modern feel and make it more efficient.

“We are going to retool the kitchen area and retrofit it for the students to showcase that Presec is the school of the future, and our dining hall will be properly set up.”

He also mentioned the construction of a new space for kitchen staff, which will include resting areas, offices, and changing rooms.

“We are building an ultramodern area for our kitchen staff so they can relax. They can have offices, changing rooms.”

One of the highlights of the project is the introduction of a biogas system to power the kitchen making Presec one of the first schools in Ghana to run a fully green kitchen.

“We are also doing a biogas kitchen. You know, that will be one of the first schools in Ghana that is going fully green on the utilisation of our kitchen.”

He said the group hopes the facilities will not only benefit the current students but also show that Presec is committed to innovation and progress.

“We hope that these resources in place will make Presec the school that indeed we want to make of it.”

The project forms part of a broader effort by the old students to give back to their alma mater and ensure it remains one of the leading institutions in the country.

This is a significant step towards Ghana’s target of improving clean cooking methods aiming at a 50% LGP usage penetration by 2030.

Currently, around 54.3% of households still rely on solid biomass for cooking with 31.1% depending on firewood and 23.2% on charcoal using inefficient rudimentary stoves. This exposes millions, especially women and children, to harmful indoor air pollution, while accelerating environmental degradation.

Fuelwood consumption has been a major driver of deforestation. Over 90% of Ghana’s original 8.22 million hectares of natural forest has been lost due to logging and fuelwood production. Increasing access to clean cooking solutions, particularly through LPG promotion, offers a strategic pathway to reduce deforestation, protect biodiversity, and mitigate climate change impacts.

Indoor air pollution remains a major public health challenge. An estimated 20.5 million Ghanaians, over 70% of the population, burn solid fuels like wood, charcoal, and dung for cooking and heating, often in poorly ventilated spaces.

This results in the release of harmful pollutants, including black carbon (BC), a potent short-lived climate pollutant. In 2017, Ghana’s total black carbon emissions were 16.5 kilotons, with residential cooking contributing 78% of that amount. Rural households, particularly in the forest regions, accounted for 74% of black carbon emissions from cooking, while peri-urban households contributed the remaining 26%.

Household air pollution is responsible for approximately 16,000 premature deaths annually in Ghana, with 8,500 deaths in urban areas and 7,600 in rural areas. Respiratory and cardiopulmonary diseases, often linked to inhalation of particulate matter, lead to increased hospital visits and economic burdens on families and the health system. Using LPG, a cleaner-burning fuel, is a feasible and highly effective intervention to improve air quality, reduce health risks, and lower household black carbon emissions.

The Government of Ghana (GoG) has implemented various initiatives to combat this:

The Rural LPG Cooking Fuel Promotion Program (RLPGPP) (2013–2017) helped 151,500 rural households adopt LPG, increasing rural LPG access from 5.5% in 2013 to 7.7% in 2016.

Following lessons learned, GoG developed the National LPG Promotion Program (NLPGPP) to scale LPG access across rural, urban, and peri-urban areas.

The LPG Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), launched in 2017, aims to restructure the marketing and distribution of LPG to make it safer, more accessible, and affordable.

These efforts contribute to Ghana’s broader energy and climate goals outlined in the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Country Action Plan (2012), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs-2015), Renewable Energy Master Plan (2019), and the National Energy Policy (2022).

Despite significant progress, many Ghanaian households continue to face barriers to adopting clean cooking technologies. High LPG refill costs, long distances to filling stations, safety concerns, cultural preferences for traditional cooking methods, and limited financing options hamper progress.

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has clarified the government’s position on internet data tariffs following growing pressure from social media users calling for a reduction in prices.

In an X (formerly of Twitter) post responding to a user, Sam George acknowledged the enthusiasm of advocates pushing for lower internet costs but pointed out that the power to remove or reduce taxes and tariffs lies solely with the Minister for Finance.

“Maybe it is important to educate since you may be unfamiliar with the laws of Ghana, that no Minister, except the Minister for Finance, through an instrument laid before Parliament, can remove any tax or tariff handle as it affects government revenue. So you may tag me a thousand times in a post, but the fact is that until we get the Minister for Finance to approve the removal or reduction of sector-specific tariffs, it is all enthusiasm and not facts.”

His response comes in the wake of rising concern over the cost of data in the country, which many Ghanaians say is too high compared to their earnings.

Social media users have been tagging the minister in several posts, urging him to take action to make data more affordable, as he promised when he was in opposition, blaming the previous government for making data prices expensive.

Despite Ghana being ranked among the African countries with relatively affordable mobile data, many Ghanaians are still being priced out of consistent internet access. In real economic terms, the cost of staying connected remains a daily burden for many.

On average, Ghanaians spend about GHS17 (approximately $1.37) for just one gigabyte of mobile data. This amount is nearly equal to the current daily minimum wage of GHS19.97 (approximately $1.61), meaning a day’s work may barely be enough to cover basic internet access, let alone other necessities.

For students, low-income earners, and small business operators, this has translated into digital exclusion, affecting access to education, remote work, mobile banking, and social services. Many users also report rationing data or limiting their usage to specific apps in order to manage costs.

Factors influencing data pricing

Several factors have contributed to the steady rise in data prices over the past two years:

Taxes and Levies: Mobile internet usage in Ghana is subject to multiple taxes, including: 17.5% VAT, 2.5% NHIL (National Health Insurance Levy), 2.5% GETFund Levy, and 1% COVID-19 Levy

These charges cumulatively raise the cost of data services by over 22%, placing a significant burden on consumers and service providers alike.

Operational Costs and Currency Depreciation: Telecom companies have cited increases in energy costs and the depreciation of the Ghana cedi as reasons for raising tariffs. The cost of maintaining infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, has also surged.

Market Restrictions: While MTN, Ghana’s largest telecom provider, was declared a Significant Market Power (SMP) to encourage competition, regulations have restricted it from offering the lowest possible prices, inadvertently keeping prices high across the sector.

Sam George, in the post, emphasised that while tariff reductions would offer the most significant relief to consumers, his ministry is exploring other avenues to address the issue.

“I am happy with the direction of the conversation with the Finance and Energy Ministers in the medium term. In the short term, the regulator would be implementing policy for immediate effects to be felt.”

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Akyereba Grace, a Ghanaian gospel singer, has made a significant impact with the release of her new song, “Wa Sore Ama Me”.

Akyereba Grace’s path has not been without challenges. Like many gospel artistes, her music is deeply rooted in personal experiences of hardship and restoration. Her story echoes the biblical principle that struggles are not just obstacles but opportunities for God to reveal His strength and grace.

When faced with setbacks, Grace found solace and encouragement in her faith, allowing her trials to shape both her character and her ministry.

Grace’s testimony mirrors the experience of many believers who have witnessed God’s intervention during their darkest hours.

Drawing from scriptural truths, she embodies the message that God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in weakness.

Just as others have shared how God empowered them to endure and overcome when all seemed lost, Grace’s journey is marked by moments where she felt uplifted and carried by divine support.

“Wa Sore Ama Me” is more than a song; it’s a declaration of hope and a reminder that no matter how deep the valley, God is able to lift His children up. Through her music, Grace extends the comfort she received from God to others, fulfilling the biblical call to use our experiences to encourage and strengthen those around us.

The release of “Wa Sore Ama Me” is poised to touch many lives across Ghana and beyond. The song offers:

– Encouragement to those feeling downcast or forgotten, reminding them that God sees and cares.

– A testimony of resilience, showing that setbacks can become setups for greater purpose.

– Spiritual upliftment, as the music creates an atmosphere of hope and faith for listeners.

– A call to rise above challenges, inspired by Grace’s own journey and the assurance that God stands with the brokenhearted.

As Akyereba Grace continues her ministry, “Wa Sore Ama Me” stands as a beacon of hope, inviting all who hear it to trust in God’s ability to restore, uplift, and transform lives.

Watch the video below:

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has revealed that its engineers are fixing blackouts caused by heavy rains today.

A downpour on Sunday afternoon caused massive flooding and destruction in various parts of the country, affecting some major ECG installations that deliver power to consumers.

However, the power distribution company has swiftly responded and informed the public about measures to restore electricity.

In a brief notice, ECG apologised for the development and called on the public to report all cases associated with the power cuts for immediate attention.

“Individual/localised outages and incidents of fallen poles, or sagging conductors within customers’ vicinities should be reported to the ECG Call Center on 0302-611611, the nearest ECG office, or reach us on our social media handles via @ECGghOfficial on Facebook, X, or Instagram for prompt intervention,” the release indicated.

In a related development, floods along the Pokuase–Amasaman road have left hundreds of commuters stranded in traffic for hours.

The rain, which started at about 3 pm, has also affected the main roads along the Ofankor Barrier and the Mile 7 roundabout, making it impossible for vehicles to move in either direction.

The gridlock stretched from St John’s Hospital to Ofankor and beyond, with some drivers abandoning their vehicles altogether.

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The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has commended The Church of Pentecost for what he described as a “timely and strategic contribution” to Ghana’s national safety infrastructure through the construction of the newly commissioned Pentecost Fire Station at Gomoa Yesukrom.

Speaking at the commissioning and dedication ceremony held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, the minister praised the Church for its forward-thinking approach to public safety.

“This facility could not have come at a better time,” he stated. “It will significantly improve emergency response times in Gomoa Yesukrom and surrounding communities, while also reducing the operational burden on the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in the area.”

Muntaka noted that this latest intervention by the Church adds to a growing list of security-related infrastructure provided by The Church of Pentecost in recent years. He highlighted several such projects, including two state-of-the-art correctional facilities—Inmates Skills Acquisition and Reformation Centres—at Ejura and Nsawam, aimed at transforming the lives of prison inmates, two new correctional facilities currently under construction at Obuasi and Damongo, with the Damongo centre scheduled for commissioning in June 2025, three police stations, two of which have been completed and handed over to the Ghana Police Service.

The third, located in Kawampe (Kintampo Area), is set to be commissioned in June 2025.

He admitted that the Church’s support has impacted every arm of the interior ministry, adding that this level of partnership between faith-based institutions and the state should be encouraged and emulated.

He expressed deep appreciation to the leadership and members of The Church of Pentecost for their love and commitment to community well-being, describing the Pentecost Fire Station as a gift of love to the nation.

“This is not just a government facility—it is your fire station, built for you by one of your own,” the Minister emphasised. “You have demonstrated how collective responsibility can bring lasting solutions.”

The new facility is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including administrative offices, an IT/Monitoring Room, a conference room, four syndicate rooms, and separate crew quarters for male and female personnel.

The Minister also reiterated the government’s plans to retool the GNFS to improve its efficiency. He announced a forthcoming certification programme for fuel attendants and tanker drivers, to be administered by the GNFS, making fire safety training mandatory for employment in those sectors.

He concluded with an appeal to other religious and corporate organisations to follow the example of The Church of Pentecost, calling their initiative “a national asset that will benefit generations.”

The idea for the fire station was conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic when the PCC served as an isolation centre.

The then Chief Fire Officer, Julius A. Kuunor, deployed personnel to ensure fire safety at the facility.

A risk assessment revealed the absence of a nearby fire station, with the closest located at the Kasoa Overpass and Budumburam.

Recognising the urgent need, and in line with its Possessing the Nations agenda, the leadership of The Church of Pentecost took up the responsibility to construct and donate the fully equipped fire station to the GNFS.

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May – 18 – 2025 , 17:53

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Washington, May 19, (dpa/GNA) – Severe storms have claimed the lives of at least 27 people in the US states of Missouri and Kentucky, authorities there said on Saturday.

In Kentucky, there were at least 18 fatalities, Governor Andy Beshear announced on X.

The devastation was heartbreaking, Beshear wrote.

“But we are going to make sure we get the support needed to recover and rebuild together.”

In the St Louis metropolitan area and the more southern Scott County in Missouri, at least seven deaths were confirmed, according to reports from the New York Times and CNN, citing local authorities.

Republican Governor Mike Kehoe stated on X that he and his wife were “deeply saddened” by the news. He urged people to avoid the devastated areas so that emergency services could carry out their work and assist those in need.

Initially, CNN reported at least 10 injuries in Missouri but later clarified that the exact number was unclear. The New York Times mentioned dozens of injuries across both states.

Meanwhile, in the state of Virginia, at least two people were killed when trees fell on their vehicles, according to the New York Times.

Photos and videos show destruction

The affected areas were struck by severe weather, including reports of tornadoes and hailstorms. On Thursday, wind and storms had already hit parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana and Illinois.

The National Weather Service continues to warn of severe thunderstorms with hail and possible tornadoes in parts of the southern and north-eastern United States.

Photos and videos circulating on social media showed the destruction in the affected regions. Rescue workers were deployed around the clock. According to the website poweroutage.us, hundreds of thousands of households were without power on Saturday.

Tornadoes are not uncommon in the United States, particularly in spring and summer.

However, scientists also attribute the increase in extreme weather events to climate change, primarily caused by the burning of fossil fuels.

Higher ocean temperatures can intensify storms by providing more energy and moisture. Rising sea levels also contribute to more severe flooding.

GNA

PDC

The almost three hour downpour has once again led to severe flooding across several parts of Accra, disrupting traffic and daily activities.

The rainfall, which began around 3 PM, coincided with peak commuter hours, exacerbating the impact on residents and motorists.

Areas such as Weija, Kaneshie, Adabraka, parts of Tema, Adentan-Dodowa and other parts of the capital are experiencing significant flooding, with vehicles stranded and roads rendered impassable.

Residents in affected areas are advised to stay indoors and avoid wading through floodwaters due to potential contamination and the risk of waterborne diseases.

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has called for the urgent prosecution of Akonta Mining Ltd, accusing the government of deliberate inaction in holding the company and its officials accountable for illegal mining activities.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, 18 May, the coalition expressed outrage over the delayed sanctions despite documented evidence of wrongdoing.

“The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is highly disappointed and shocked by the government’s copious failure to enforce Ghana’s laws against the criminal conduct of Akonta Mining Ltd,” Convenor Kenneth Ashigbey noted in the statement.

“Through its own investigations, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources published a documentary on the illegal activities of Akonta Mining and the extent of devastation caused by their irresponsible and unlawful activities. We were assured of swift action against the directors of Akonta mining and government officials (Mineral Commission, Forestry Commission and Security Services) found culpable through negligence or aiding and abetting. It has been a month on, and yet no arrest has been effected, nor has prosecution commenced. This sets a dangerous precedent as it paints a picture of the reign of impunity and political accommodation”.

READ ALSO: Spare parts dealers instructed to slash prices to reflect cedi gains

The anti-galamsey body noted that Akonta Mining has been operating illegally since 2022, contributing significantly to the pollution of the Tano River and the destruction of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

While acknowledging the freezing of Akonta Mining’s accounts as confirmation of wrongdoing, the coalition stressed that “there is no justification for the continued delay in prosecuting those responsible.”

The group is therefore urging the government “to arrest and prosecute the Managing Director/CEO, all Directors of Akonta Mining Ltd, and any culpable government officials without further delay, as a clear testament of its commitment to fighting galamsey”.

Below is the full statement.

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Interplast Ltd, Ghana’s leading manufacturer of HDPE and uPVC Pipes and fittings, has been ranked among Africa’s Fastest-Growing Companies by The Financial Times.

The company secured the 70th position on the continent and is proudly the highest-ranked Ghanaian company on this prestigious list.

This significant recognition places Interplast among Africa’s foremost growth leaders and marks a major milestone for Ghana’s manufacturing sector. The annual ranking, compiled in partnership with global research firm Statista, highlights companies demonstrating exceptional revenue growth, industry leadership, and business resilience across the continent.

Founded in 1970, Interplast has transformed from a local operation into a regional manufacturing powerhouse. Over the three-year evaluation period, the company recorded an impressive 184% absolute revenue growth, driven by a strategic focus on delivering high-quality, cost-effective, and durable alternatives to imported construction materials.

“We are proud to represent Ghana at the highest levels of African industry,” said Mr. Hayssam Fakhry, Managing Director of Interplast Ltd. “This ranking is a powerful endorsement of our long-standing investment in local talent, production capacity, and innovation. It demonstrates what is achievable when African businesses are empowered to lead with vision and purpose.”

Interplast’s diverse product portfolio includes HDPE and uPVC pipes, uPVC windows and doors, and advanced irrigation systems. The company serves residential, commercial, and industrial clients across West and Central Africa, significantly contributing to the region’s infrastructure development and agricultural sustainability.

This Financial Times accolade underscores Interplast’s role as a key enabler in Africa’s infrastructure transformation. Built on a foundation of quality, sustainability, and forward-looking leadership, the company continues to champion engineering excellence and long-term growth across the continent.

Headquartered in Accra, Interplast Ltd is West Africa’s foremost producer of plastic piping systems, uPVC windows and doors, and irrigation solutions. Through innovation and a strong commitment to development, Interplast is helping shape a more resilient and self-reliant Africa.

Mpox cases have risen to four, following a fresh outbreak in May 2025.

Two additional cases have been confirmed in Accra by the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service, following the first reported case on Thursday, May 15.

The latest infections, one in the Greater Accra Region and another in the Western Region, were confirmed in a statement released by GHS Director-General Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea on Sunday, May 18.

The release said the respective regional health directorates have promptly activated public health measures, including contact tracing, to prevent further spread of the virus.

Preliminary assessments indicate that these two newly confirmed cases have no epidemiological link to the earlier reported cases.

“We take this opportunity to remind the public that Mpox is a viral disease transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated materials.

“Common symptoms include rash, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes,” the release added.

Ghana’s outbreak of Mpox began on June 8, 2022, when five initial cases were reported.

By November 2023, the country had confirmed a total of 34 cases. Before this outbreak, Mpox was not known to be endemic in Ghana.

A circular signed by the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service called for a renewed response to the threat, including improved detection and response strategies.

Mpox is a viral illness similar to smallpox. It typically causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids, including through sexual contact. Symptoms may include fever, rash or lesions, tiredness, headaches, muscle and back pain, and swollen glands.

Across Africa, the disease remains a major concern. As of March 2025, more than 24,200 cases and around 260 deaths have been recorded in 22 countries. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been hardest hit, accounting for a large share of both the cases and the fatalities.

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File photo of DVLA plates

The Chief Executive Officer of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Julius Neequaye Kotey, has issued a stern warning to vehicle owners misusing Defective Vehicle (DV) plates.

In a recent interview with Kasapa FM, Kotey emphasised that DV plates are intended solely for car dealers and should be used for a maximum of two weeks after a vehicle is cleared from the port.

“If you are a car dealer and you are coming to sell your car, we don’t determine when you sell your car. So we give you DV plates – Defective Vehicle plates -‘defective’ in the sense that we have not tested the car to ensure it is roadworthy,” he explained.

“So that DV plate, you are supposed to use it for two weeks until you sell the car. It’s illegal to drive with DV number plates more than 14 days after clearing your vehicle from the port,” he stated.

He further highlighted the misuse of these plates by individuals who are not authorised dealers.

“I’ve seen a lot of people who don’t deal in cars using DV plates. And the police will be hard on them from now on. So I beg you with all humility go and register your car if you’ve used it for more than 14 days after taking it from the port.

“I once heard someone saying that he buys the plates and sells them. It’s wrong. It’s illegal. It’s criminal,” he warned.

Kotey also revealed alarming discrepancies in the DVLA’s plate issuance system, noting that approximately 3,000 DV plates go unaccounted for each month, suggesting large-scale theft and illegal distribution.

To combat the issue, the DVLA plans to implement a new system in 2026 to verify the authenticity of all number plates in Ghana.

This initiative aims to curb the circulation of fake plates and ensure that only authorised dealers have access to DV plates.

“Some of the plates are fake too. But because there’s no system to check the authenticity of the plates, we cannot do anything. But I can assure them that next year, we will have a system to check the authenticity of every plate in Ghana,” he promised.

ID/MA

At least 3,700 people have been evacuated in Buenos Aires province, the newspaper La Nación reported, citing the national emergency agency.

Local security minister Javier Alonso said there had been no fatalities after three days of heavy rain, but entire areas were underwater.

Several school buses have been stranded due to the flooding, news portal Infobae reported.

In once case, 37 children and four teachers were rescued by helicopters after being stranded in flooding for 20 hours, television station TN reported.

Another bus, with 44 passengers including children, was also stranded due to flooding. The fire brigade rescued the passengers with jet skis and boats.

The cities of Campana, Zárate and Salto were among those particularly affected by the storms.

GNA

PDC

The attacker gained access to a military facility where he blew himself up among 200 young men looking to be recruited by the army, police told dpa.

The al-Shabaab militia, an insurgent group seeking an Islamist state in Somalia, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Another 16 people were injured with the number of fatalities expected to rise further, according to police.

The sound of the explosion could be heard in several parts of the city.

Al-Shabaab claimed on its radio station to have killed dozens of new recruits.

The group, which is linked to the al-Qaeda terrorist network, accused the government of exploiting unemployed young people to send them to fight against the militia.

Al-Shabaab has been carrying out attacks in Somalia and beyond for years to establish a theocracy based on Sharia law.

In recent weeks, fighting has been flared up again between government troops and the militia, particularly in the south and centre of the country.

GNA

PDC