Medeama SC continued their impressive late-season form with a commanding 3-1 win over Vision FC on Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Tarkwa and Aboso Stadium, further strengthening their push up the Premier League table.

The hosts made a blistering start, taking the lead inside just two minutes through striker Kingsley Braye. However, their advantage was short-lived, as Daniel Yemoh struck back swiftly for Vision FC in the 5th minute, leveling the score in a lively opening to the game.

Despite dominating possession and creating several opportunities, Medeama were unable to convert their control into goals for the remainder of the first half, as Vision’s defense held firm.

After the break, Medeama emerged with renewed purpose. Defender Kamaradini Mamudu, fresh off a brace in last week’s win over Young Apostles, put his side ahead once more in the 52nd minute, finishing confidently to make it 2-1.

As Vision pushed men forward in pursuit of another equalizer, gaps began to open at the back. Medeama capitalized in the 85th minute, with substitute Abdul Salam rounding off a fluid team move to seal the result.

The victory marks Medeama’s second win in a row, during which they’ve netted six goals and conceded just once. The result sees them climb to 5th place in the league table, signaling strong momentum as the season nears its conclusion.

Vision FC, meanwhile, remain 14th with 33 points from 30 matches in what has been a challenging debut Premier League campaign. They’ll need a strong finish to ensure survival in the top flight.

Ghana midfielder Abdul Sulemana

Ghana midfielder Abdul Sulemana was named Man of the Match in the Black Satellites’ 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening Group C match at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The encounter, held at the Suez Stadium on Friday evening, saw DR Congo take the lead in the 16th minute through Samuel Ntanda after a lapse in Ghana’s defence.

Sulemana, though not flawless in decision-making, impressed with his energy and forward runs, standing out among his teammates.

Ghana responded swiftly, and in the 24th minute, Emmanuel Mensah set up Aziz Musibau, who calmly slotted in the equaliser.

Despite both teams pushing for a winner in the second half, clear chances were missed at both ends. Ghana looked threatening on the break, while DR Congo lacked sharpness in the final third.

Ghana face Senegal next, with DR Congo set to meet the Central African Republic.

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has reiterated its call for the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take swift action on the investigation into the murder of journalist Ahmed Suale.

Speaking at the 2025 World Press Freedom Day and Honours Night, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour revealed that 11 journalists were assaulted in February, further emphasising the urgent need to uphold press freedom and ensure justice for crimes against media practitioners.

“The records are not good for us, especially on economic, security and legislative indicators. This is the reason why we have been calling on the police to take attacks on journalists seriously, especially bringing perpetrators of attacks on the media to justice to serve as a deterrent to others and to end impunity. We haven’t been sleeping on the attacks against our members, the reason why we have been demanding justice for our murdered colleague, Ahmed Suale. We want to reiterate our call on the IGP that the time to act is now,” he said.

Leader of the Minority caucus in parliament and MP for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, while reflecting on the theme, called for the cautious use of AI technology in journalism to prevent the spread of fake news, and urged for the establishment of a policy framework to guide its use.

“We must ask ourselves, how do we protect press freedom in an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping the media landscape. I firmly believe that the answer lies in balance, a deliberate and inclusive approach to innovation that upholds the principles of transparency, accountability and human dignity. We must develop national and regional AI frameworks that protect press freedom,” he said.

Read also….

ECG doesn’t need privatisation, it needs leadership – PUWU

Minority Leader and Gertrude Araba Torkonoo

Nana Yaa Jantuah, a presidential staffer, has questioned the leadership of the largest opposition party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), over its planned demonstration against the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkonoo.

According to Jantuah, she finds it perplexing that the NPP would schedule a protest against the ruling government over the Chief Justice’s suspension and the ongoing investigations into her possible removal.

She further questioned whether Gertrude Araba Torkonoo is affiliated with the party as a card-bearing member or a Women’s Organizer, suggesting that this may explain the NPP’s keen interest in the matter.

Describing the planned protest as unnecessary, Jantuah implied that the NPP is merely engaging in the demonstration out of boredom from being in opposition.

“When there is a need for a probe, we must do so thoroughly, and that includes investigating petitions. What is the NPP’s problem? Is the woman a card-bearing member or their Women’s Organizer?” she was quoted as saying in an interview on Asempa FM by onuaonline.com.

She continued, “Everything the woman did that Ghanaians weren’t happy with, the NPP emboldened her, so now they feel guilty. I don’t see why they would organize parties together for a demonstration.”

“They have nothing to do, and I see this as boredom. This is not the first time someone in an independent body has been probed. Charlotte Osei and others went through similar investigations, so what is the NPP’s problem?” she added.

President John Mahama on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation.

According to a statement signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the suspension follows the establishment of a prima facie case against the Chief Justice by the President, in consultation with the Council of State, in relation to three petitions filed against Justice Torkornoo.

“President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, determined that a prima facie case has been established in respect of three petitions against the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo,” the statement, dated Tuesday, April 22, 2025, stated.

According to the statement, the President has also established a five-member committee, in compliance with constitutional provisions, to inquire into the petitions, which have been referred to the committee.

“The President has consequently, established a committee in compliance with Article 146(6) of the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State with the following composition to inquire into the petitions which have been referred to them,” the statement added.

Members of the committee, as listed, are:

Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice of the Supreme Court, Chairman

Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Justice of the Supreme Court, Member

Daniel Yaw Domelevo (Former Auditor-General), Member

Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo (Ghana Armed Forces), Member

Professor James Sefah Dzisah (Associate Professor, University of Ghana), Member.

AM/KA

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

Kennedy Agyapong and Abronye DC

The Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, has launched an attack on Kennedy Agyapong, a former presidential aspirant of the party.

According to Abronye DC, Kennedy Agyapong is a greedy and dishonourable individual who frequently highlights his contributions to the NPP but fails to disclose the benefits he has also received from the party.

Speaking in an interview on Wontumi TV on May 2, 2025, Abronye challenged Agyapong to publicly acknowledge the privileges he has gained from the NPP.

“We are tired of Kennedy Agyapong. Anytime he has issues with someone, he accuses the person of receiving help from him. He had issues with Naa Torshie and claimed he was taking care of her. He had problems with Yaw Adomako Baafi and called him poor.

“He fought against the late Chairman Kutin simply because Kutin did not support him but instead backed Bawumia, that is, Kennedy Agyapong for you. He also clashed with Hawa Koomson and called her a poor teacher, claiming he lobbied Akufo-Addo to get her a position, implying that Akufo-Addo did not even know what he was doing.

“He boasts about financing the party more than anyone else and claims he has bought food for every NPP member,” Abronye lamented.

Abronye questioned why Agyapong continuously claims to have funded the NPP without acknowledging the benefits he has also derived from the party.

“Every day he claims he has financed the NPP, but have you ever heard Kennedy Agyapong telling party members about the advantages he has also gained?

“That shows how evil and greedy he is. If you are looking for someone who is selfish, it is Kennedy Agyapong. He is a dishonourable man, yet he claims he has fed everyone in the party,” he asserted.

It may be recalled that Abronye and Kennedy Agyapong had a heated exchange during the NPP Thank You Tour in the Bono Region.

The confrontation was triggered after Abronye threw a jab at Agyapong while addressing party faithful, prompting an equally strong response from the former presidential aspirant.

AM/KA

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

The Minister in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom, journalists protection, and responsible technological integration in the media landscape.

Speaking at the 2025 World Press Freedom Day celebration hosted by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra on Friday, May 2, on the theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”, Kwakye Ofosu described the event as one that called for “cautious optimism and solemn reflection” as Ghana continues to recover from what he termed “historic lows” in its global press freedom rankings, most notably the sharp drop to 60th place in 2022.

He attributed that decline to “unwarranted attacks on journalists, closure of some media houses, and an atmosphere of intimidation,” which, he said, had undermined Ghana’s regional leadership in press freedom.

“These incidents were deeply regrettable,” he said, “and must serve as a reminder that the protection of journalists is not optional, but rather a sacred constitutional duty.”

Mr Kwakye Ofosu sounded a cautionary note on the evolving nature of threats to media freedom, asserting that “the threat is no longer just censorship, but also disinformation—deliberate, well-orchestrated, and increasingly intricate.”

He described how disinformation has become a powerful tool capable of “triggering discord, deepening polarisation, and manipulating public perception,” and warned that “what begins as a meme or a voice note in a WhatsApp group can spiral into violence.”

The minister paid particular attention to the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative effects on journalism.

While acknowledging its capacity to accelerate workflows and refine data analysis, he warned of the ethical risks it poses if left unchecked.

“AI has no friends, no enemies, and no fear—unless it is trained to have them,” he said. “Without a journalist anchored in fairness, credibility, and ethical judgment, AI risks becoming a force that undermines the very freedoms it could support.”

He cautioned that AI’s efficiency could inadvertently lead to abuse: “The faster we move, the easier it becomes to overlook scrutiny, accountability, nuance, and context. When speed overtakes deliberation, the risk is not just error. It is abuse.”

Mr Kwakye Ofosu called on media professionals to “gird their loins” and confront this profound dilemma with vigilance and integrity.

Referencing the murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Hussein Suale—whose killers remain at large—the minister gave a firm assurance that the current administration is committed to concluding investigations and securing justice.

“These acts of impunity will not define our future,” he said. “We remain unwavering in our commitment to protecting journalists and upholding their constitutional freedoms.”

The minister emphasised that under President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership, the government will work to restore Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of media independence in Africa.

He called for a united front involving “security agencies, media owners, political actors, civil society, political parties, and citizens” to safeguard journalists’ rights.

Press freedom, he stressed, must not “swing with political cycles” but be “grounded in law, safeguarded by civic vigilance, and nurtured by a culture of transparency.”

He noted that media freedom also depends on ethical practice within the press itself. “To serve special interests, corporate influence, or any agenda other than the truth is also to serve power,” he said, urging the media to uphold independence beyond just resistance to the state.

Beyond advocacy, Mr Kwakye Ofosu said the government recognises that “true media independence must be underpinned by fair conditions of service and investment in professional development.”

He pledged policy reforms aimed at sustainability, safety, and innovation in the media sector.

He also acknowledged the significance of the Right to Information Act and other institutional reforms that have improved access to credible information and amplified public participation.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu congratulated awardees at the GJA ceremony, especially the winner of the Journalist of the Year award, and paid tribute to veteran journalists who helped lay the foundation for press freedom in Ghana.

“If today media practice in Ghana has become commonplace and carried out in an atmosphere of freedom, then it is down to the dedication and commitment of these individuals,” he said.

Reiterating the president’s full support for a free and responsible press, Mr Kwakye Ofosu urged: “Let us reaffirm our shared belief in a democratic Ghana where journalists can work without fear, where technology serves to elevate the truth, and where the media remains a pillar of our Republic.”

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

The Ghana Federation of American Football (GFAF), in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service, will host a National Coaches Clinic in Accra to equip coaches with the skills needed to successfully implement flag football in schools nationwide.

The 10-day event, divided into two phases from May 12-16 and May 19-23, 2025, will take place at the University of Ghana.

It will bring together 16 physical education regional coordinators from the Ghana Education Service across all 16 regions, four representatives from the national Physical Education coordinator’s office, and seven youth leaders selected from the NKWA annual camps.

Led by experienced technical instructors from the USA, with Coach David Grimes at the helm, the clinic will combine theoretical and practical training to ensure coaches are well-prepared to develop young athletes.

Mr. Mohammed Osman Nkosi, a key stakeholder in the GFAF, emphasised the clinic’s importance, stating,

“Sustainable football development hinges on coaches mastering effective coaching methods. As we gear up for intensive flag football programs in schools, this clinic will empower coaches to guide our youth successfully.”

The Ghana Federation of American Football, under the leadership of NFL player Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, is the recognised governing body dedicated to promoting and advancing American football in Ghana. The federation has outlined strategic measures to foster the sport’s growth across the country.

This clinic marks a significant step toward building a strong foundation for flag football in Ghana’s schools, ensuring a brighter future for the sport.

NPP National Organiser, Nana B

The National Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, has called for drastic action against Dr. Dominic Ayine, the Attorney General, suggesting that he either resign or be removed from office.

This remark came after a detailed reference to Ghana’s Constitution and concerns over the Attorney General’s performance in the discharge of his duties.

In an interview on Joy News, monitored by MyNewsGh, Nana B highlighted the core responsibilities of the Attorney General as outlined in Article 88 of Ghana’s Constitution.

He pointed out that the Attorney General serves as the principal legal advisor to the government and has a wide range of duties, including the initiation and conduct of criminal and civil prosecutions on behalf of the state.

“The Attorney General shall be responsible for the initiation and conduct of all prosecutions of criminal offenses. All offenses prosecuted in the name of the Republic of Ghana shall be at the suit of the Attorney General,” Nana B quoted from the Constitution.

He further emphasized that the Attorney General is not only tasked with representing the state in court but also holds authority in civil cases involving the state.

He also noted that the Attorney General is required to have audience in all courts in Ghana, indicating the level of influence and responsibility the office holds within the legal system.

Despite these constitutional expectations, Nana B suggested that the Attorney General had fallen short of his obligations, with accusations of corruption and inefficiency looming over his office.

The remarks follow public criticisms from individuals such as Gomoa Central MP, Kwame A-Plus, who previously labeled Dr Ayine as corrupt.

Dr Ayine [L] and Nana Boakye

In a sharp critique during an interview on Joy News monitored by MyNewsGh, Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, called out Ghana’s Attorney General, Dr Dominic Ayine, for his handling of corruption allegations made by Gomoa Central MP, A Plus.

Nana B expressed dismay that the Attorney General had chosen to respond to A Plus’s serious accusation—that he is corrupt and a thief—by addressing the matter through the media and social platforms instead of pursuing legal action.

“A Plus is not just any person now,” Nana B pointed out. “A Plus is an Honourable Member of Parliament who belongs to the majority. He says that you are corrupt and a thief.”

Nana B further questioned the Attorney General’s explanation that A Plus was attacking him simply because of a campaign funding dispute involving one Dr Sledge.

The Attorney General had claimed that A Plus’s accusations were retaliatory because he didn’t get access to some campaign funds.

“In your response, you’re saying that A Plus is attacking you because you went for some campaign funds from one Dr. Sledge. That is why A Plus is saying these things,” Nana B said, clearly unimpressed. “And people have even advised you to initiate legal proceedings against A Plus—that’s a defamation suit. But you will not do that because you claim you don’t want to be distracted.”

He continued, “If A Plus thinks he wants to play with you in the mud, that is where you want to be. You are from the mud. Where you are, you’re not afraid of the mud. So you go into the mud. But who says we want our Attorney General to be playing in the mud? Who? Playing in the mud to defend himself?”

Nana B found it unacceptable that someone occupying such a constitutionally protected role would opt for public banter over proper legal redress.

“That is why I was intentional in my words,” he said. “In fact, if I’m not mistaken, this is the only ministerial portfolio that is explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, with the mandate clearly stated.”

He also referenced a renewed accusation made by A Plus, who returned to social media to double down on his claim, alleging that the Attorney General had taken a large sum of money intended to bribe members of the Appointments Committee.

“Now, A Plus again goes back to his Facebook page and says, ‘Hey, no, you’re lying. You went for money. The purpose of this money was to bribe members of the Appointments Committee,’” Nana B said, clearly disturbed by the gravity of the allegations.

Ghana will pilot a Pregnancy Registry in early 2026 to monitor vaccine safety among pregnant women and their babies.

The initiative, under the Maternal Immunization Safety Monitoring Programme, will track adverse events from vaccinations.

It will be led by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, with implementation by the Dodowa and Kintampo Health Research Centres.

Pregnant women in health facilities within the catchment areas of the two research centres will receive vaccines and be monitored for safety during pregnancy and after delivery.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Accra, Dr Edwin Nkansah, Director of Vaccines, Vigilance, and Clinical Trials at the FDA, said the project aims to establish an effective system for evaluating vaccine safety in pregnant women.

“One of the things this project will do will be to monitor how pregnant women react at every state of their pregnancy when they receive a vaccine,” he said.

Dr Nkansah noted that the registry would provide the FDA with comprehensive data on vaccine effects on pregnant women and their children, ensuring proper monitoring of pharmaceutical products used during pregnancy.

Dr Frank Atuguba, Director of Dodowa Health Research Centre, said 150 women from the project areas had been selected for initial monitoring of maternal health records from early pregnancy until delivery.

He explained that the process would continue after vaccination.

“Generally, vaccines are the most cost-effective ways of preventing diseases, but there are some infections that can be effectively tackled by vaccinating a pregnant woman to protect the unborn child,” Dr. Atuguba said.

He added that the project would also include vaccine trials for Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Group B Streptococcal Pneumonia to protect both pregnant women and their babies in early life.

Madam Adeli Ashie, Chief Regulatory Officer at the FDA Safety and Monitoring Department, said pregnant women face a higher risk of contracting diseases that could lead to mortality.

She said the Pregnancy Registry aligned with the FDA’s mandate to monitor vaccine safety for pregnant women.

The Zuarungu Health Centre in the Bolgatanga East District of the Upper East Region urgently needs a surgical theatre—a situation that is hindering healthcare delivery and endangering lives.

Currently operating without a theatre, the facility is unable to perform critical surgical procedures such as cesarean sections, emergency operations, and other essential interventions.

As a result, patients—particularly expectant mothers, accident victims, and others in critical condition—are often referred to distant facilities, especially the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga. These referrals lead to delays that sometimes prove fatal.

According to Harriette Yeribu, the Bolgatanga East District Director of the Ghana Health Service, the lack of a theatre has become a major bottleneck in efforts to provide timely and comprehensive care.

She made this disclosure in an interview with the Ghana News Agency at Zuarungu, on the sidelines of a forum on citizen-driven health sector policy. The forum aimed to harness community structures for inclusive and quality education and healthcare.

It was organized by Rural Initiatives for Self-Empowerment Ghana (RISE-Ghana), a non-governmental organization, in partnership with the Bolgatanga East Evidence for Development Community of Practice (E4D-CoP).

The forum formed part of the Bolgatanga East Evidence for Development (E4D) project, with funding support from the Centre for Democratic Development Ghana (CDD-Ghana). It aimed to solicit citizen input to inform the District Medium-Term Development Plans in the health sector.

Yeribu said the lack of a theatre had placed immense pressure on the facility, which is already grappling with limited resources and understaffing.

“This health centre is the referral facility for all the CHPS compounds in the district. We have the personnel, including a medical doctor, but we do not have a theatre or a laboratory,” she lamented.

The District Director also indicated that many of the health facilities lack sustainable water and sanitation infrastructure, further limiting the ability of health workers to provide quality care.

“We need infrastructure expansion for the Zuarungu and Gambibgo health centres, accommodation for staff, and overall support to be able to deliver quality care,” she added.

Yeribu therefore appealed to the government, NGOs, and well-meaning individuals to support the construction of a fully equipped theatre and other infrastructure. She believes such investments would not only save lives but also enhance the overall quality of healthcare delivery in the area.

Shadrack A-obiliya, Project Officer at RISE-Ghana, noted that the project aims to involve community members in healthcare delivery to ensure sustainability and inclusiveness.

Medeama SC continued their recent good run in the Ghana Premier League following their win over Vision FC.

The Tarkwa-based side recorded a 3-1 win at the TNA Stadium on Friday night on matchday 30 of the top flight.

Medeama had a strong start to the game after Kingsley Braye scored after just two minutes into the game.

That lead, however, didn’t last long as the away side drew level immediately. Daniel Yemoh scored in the fifth to make it 1-1.

Both teams went into the break with the game at 1-1.

Ibrahim Tanko’s side were back in the lead after the recess with Black Stars defender Kamaradini Mamudu scoring his third goal in two games to restore their advantage.

Despite a spirited effort, Vision were unable to get back into the game.

Medeama, utilized their home advantage late in the game when Abdul Salam came off the bench to score with just minutes away from the full time whistle.

With the 3-1 win, Medeama climb to fifth in the league table with 47 points while Vision sit 14th.

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 Mahamudu Bawumia and Nana Agyakoma Difie II, Queen mother of Mampong

Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has extended his condolences to the Queen mother of Mampong, Nana Agyakoma Difie II, and the Mampong Traditional Council following the passing of the Paramount Chief of Mampong, Daasebre Nana Osei Bonsu II.

This was shared on the X page of Asante Nation on Friday, April 4, 2025.

Dr Bawumia, together with his team, visited the Palace of the occupant of the Silver Stool at Asante Mampong as part of their Thank You Tour, to commiserate with the queen mother, chiefs, and people of Mampong over the unfortunate loss.

Until his death, Daasebre Nana Osei Bonsu II served as the Vice President of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs and was the esteemed occupant of the Silver Stool, a position of immense traditional significance within the Asante Kingdom.

He was regarded as the second-in-command in the Ashanti traditional hierarchy and often acted on behalf of the Asantehene in matters of custom and tradition.

Before ascending to the Silver Stool, he was known as Oswald Gyimah-Kessie, a lawyer and economist by profession who also served as the Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

Daasebre Nana Osei Bonsu II was 86 years old.

Read the post below:

Former Vice President of the Republic, H.E Dr Mahamadu Bawumiah has visited the Palace of the occupant of the Silver Stool at Asante Mampong together with his team on their Thank You Tour, to commiserate with Nana Agyakoma Difie II, Queenmother of Mampong and the chiefs and… pic.twitter.com/b4dBFFFdme

— The Asante Nation (@Asante_nation) May 2, 2025

JKB/

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

Ghana and DR Congo shared the spoils in an entertaining 1-1 draw in their opening Group C encounter, played at a lively tempo and filled with chances, physical battles, and individual brilliance – particularly from Ghana’s standout performer Hakim Sulemana.

The Black Satellites came flying out of the blocks and dominated the opening 15 minutes of the match, carving out early chances in the 9th and 13th minutes. Forwards Aziz Musibau and Opoku were lively in the attack, while Hakim controlled the midfield with authority. However, despite Ghana’s early control, it was DR Congo who opened the scoring in the 16th minute – their first real threat in the match. A swift, incisive move caught the Ghanaian defence flat-footed, and Congo slotted home to take a surprise lead against the run of play.

The goal did little to shake Ghana’s momentum. Musibau missed a big chance in the 21st minute before Ghana equalized through the same player just three minutes later, making it 1-1 in the 24th minute. It was a deserved goal after sustained pressure.

 The game balanced out from that point, with both sides enjoying spells of possession. Ghana’s Opoku missed a glaring chance in the 32nd minute, while DR Congo’s Messy Mubundu Manitu [in jersey number 10] impressed with his creativity. The Satellites’ Andrews Adjabeng also spurned a gilt-edged opportunity as the half wore on. Congo nearly snatched the lead again just before halftime, but Ghana had the better of the chances in this half overall, including a header over the bar in the 38th minute and another just before the break from Musibau.

The second half of the match was physical, very competitive and saw both teams missing a number of good opportunities. It picked up with an open, fast-paced rhythm. Both teams had chances in the early stages – Ghana saw a chance flagged offside in the 50th, before Musibau again missed a golden opportunity a minute later.

Ghana made their first change in the 59th minute, bringing on Jerry Afriyie for Andrews Adjabeng to inject fresh legs. Congo’s Ibrahim Matobo Mubalu [7] showed flashes of brilliance with his footwork, adding flair to the match. The encounter turned increasingly physical, with Ghana’s Phenyin-Denis Marfo [17] picking up a yellow card in the 66th minute for a tactical foul, adding to DaCosta’s earlier booking.

Opoku missed another key chance in the 70th minute, shooting over the bar from the edge of the area. DR Congo made a double substitution and nearly retook the lead from a well-worked free kick, only for Ghana’s goalkeeper Gidios Aseako to make a sharp save in the 75th minute.

The Congolese continued to exploit space on the wings, while Ghana pushed forward with a flurry of corners around the 79th and 81st minutes, none of which were capitalized on. Ghana made a triple substitution in the 82nd minute, aiming to find a late winner, but it was Congo who threatened more in the final moments.

A defensive lapse from Ghana in the 84th minute almost cost the Satellites, but Goalkeeper Aseako was alert to the threat and thwarted it. Joseph Aidoo [25] was booked in the 87th minute for a reckless challenge. Congo threatened to nick the result towards the end of the match, but they were denied by some heroic defending by the Satellites, who had one final corner in stoppage time but couldn’t make it count.

Ghana’s Hakim Sulemana was named Player of the Match. The Ghanaian midfielder was tireless in both attack and defence, dictating play and showing maturity and composure throughout.

In the other Group C opening match, the Central African Republic battled defending Champions to a 1-1 draw in an uncompromising encounter.

Ghana’s next match will be on Monday, May 5, 2025, when the Satellites come up against Senegal, in a game where both countries would want to win to brighten their chances of qualifying for the quarterfinals of the competition.

Attorney General Dr Dominic Ayine has announced that significant progress has been made in investigations, with Prof Ameyaw Ekumfi set to be charged next week.

He stated that it has been established that the $2 million payment made by the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund was unauthorized, with only former CEO Solomon Asamoah and former board chairman Prof. Ameyaw Ekumfi aware of and involved in the transaction.

Both Asamoah and Ekumfi will face charges, with some board members offering to testify as prosecution witnesses.

Dr Ayine said he is considering their offers.

“Significant progress has been made in other investigations being conducted in relation to the ORAL Briefs presented to me in February.

“The investigations by the National Intelligence Bureau have been equally thorough under the direction of its Director General, Mr. Alhassan Kipo and guided by the team in my Office.

“In respect of the Skytrain matter, we have completed investigations and will be filing charges hopefully next week.

“We have established that the Two Million United States Dollars (US$2,000,000.00) paid by the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund was paid without board approval.

“The only persons who knew and acted on the payment were the former CEO, Mr. Solomon Asamoah and the former board chairman, Prof Ameyaw Ekumfi.

“Both will be charged next week. Some of the board members have offered to testify as witnesses for the prosecution and I am considering their offers,” AG said while briefing the media.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

By Iddi Yire, GNA Special Correspondent in Libreville, Gabon

Libreville (Gabon), May 02, GNA – Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama Friday arrived in the Gabonese capital of Libreville, to attend the inauguration of Gabonese President-elect General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.

President-elect Nguema, the outgoing military leader, won the April 12 Gabonese Presidential election with 90.35 per cent of the valid votes cast.

He will serve a seven-year term.

President Mahama’s participation in the event scheduled for Saturday, May 3, is in pursuit of Ghana’s long-standing foreign policy of good neighbourliness.

 He is being accompanied by Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mr Prosper Douglas Bani, the National Security Advisor; Dr Callistus Mahama, the Executive Secretary to the President and Mr Stan Xoese Dogbe, the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Presidency in-charge of Operations.

Gabon, a major oil-producing country in Central Africa, has a population of about 2.3 million.

In August 2023, Nguema led a coup that ended 56 years of rule by former President Ali Bongo and his family. 

He has pledged to boost agriculture, industry, and tourism, while diversifying the economy, according to Reuters news agency report.

GNA

ACP Grace Akrofi Asiedu, Director of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service

Investigations into the kidnapping of two Ghanaian women, who were recently recovered in Nigeria after a viral video brought attention to their plight, are still ongoing, according to the Ghana Police Service.

Three individuals were arrested in Nigeria and five others in Ghana as a result of the rescue, which was accomplished through a concerted cross-border operation by security services from both Ghana and Nigeria.

The arrests, according to authorities, are part of a larger operation targeting an alleged international abduction organization.

The Ghana Police Service’s Director of Public Affairs, ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, stated in an interview with Channel One Newsroom on Friday, May 2, that the victims are safe and healthy, but warned that the full details of the case are still unknown.

Once investigations are complete, ACP Ansah-Akrofi stated, any pertinent information will be shared, including whether a ransom was demanded.

She added that the police will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available and emphasized that the case is being handled based on the current facts.

“The victims have been rescued and they are well. They are alive and well. We’re yet to complete our investigations. As soon as our investigations are over, we will give the public full details of the whole incident.

“And other dynamics that the public needs to know, we will draw everyone’s attention to them accordingly. In the meantime, we’re dealing with the case as it is, and we will keep the public updated in due course,” citinewsroom.com quotes ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi as saying.

KA

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

…as Sulemana moves to Energy Ministry

President John Mahama has appointed Edmond B. Kombat to the position of Acting Managing Director, the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), following the reassignment of Dr. Yussif Sulemana to the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition. This was contained in a letter dated Tuesday, April 29, 2025 and signed by the Executive Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama.

Dr. Sulemana is expected to serve as a Technical Advisor at the Ministry, after a brief tenure at the helm of the state-owned refinery.The leadership change comes at a crucial moment for TOR, which continues to grapple with legacy debt, prolonged operational downtime, and a dire need for capital investment, with Mr. Kombat’s appointment signalling a renewed push to reposition the refinery as a cornerstone of the nation’s energy strategy.

Mr. Kombat, a lawyer and experienced energy strategist, was named Deputy Managing Director of TOR earlier this year. His elevation to the acting managing director role is seen by many as part of broader efforts to stabilise leadership and restore TOR’s operational relevance.

A co-founder and former Director of Research and Policy at the Institute for Energy Security (IES), Kombat brings a unique mix of technical, financial, and legal expertise. He holds a Master of Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School and was called to the Ghana Bar in 2022.  He previously served as Special Assistant to a former TOR Managing Director, where he played a central role in attracting a reported US$110 million in investment and spearheading operational reforms credited with saving the country some US$300 million.

In brief comments following his appointment, Mr. Kombat said: “TOR remains a strategic national asset. I am committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure its turnaround and long-term sustainability.”

The refinery, with a nameplate capacity of 45,000 barrels per day, has operated below potential for years, hindered by ageing infrastructure, unreliable crude oil supply, and recurring financial constraints. Ghana currently imports the vast majority of its refined petroleum products, a trend that officials have said undermines energy security and drains foreign exchange reserves.

Mr. Kombat’s professional background spans the public and private sectors. In addition to his leadership at IES, he previously worked as an energy analyst at TOR and as a business and energy analyst at the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST). He also completed a stint as a Summer Analyst at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in 2013.

His appointment is expected to usher in a new phase of strategic engagement with investors, regulatory stakeholders, and industry partners. With Ghana’s fuel consumption rising steadily and global oil markets remaining volatile, TOR’s revival is increasingly seen as a national imperative. Mr. Kombat is expected to focus on improving crude procurement, optimising plant efficiency, and securing new sources of funding.

While TOR’s challenges remain complex, observers say the leadership transition offers a fresh opportunity to reimagine the future of the refinery and its role in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector. The appointment has been well received by staff, who see Mr.  Kombat’s elevation as a step toward stability and renewed purpose.

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.

Ghana’s Black Satellites were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening Group C fixture at the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 on Friday.

The Satellites, who played under the floodlights at the New Suez Stadium, were stunned by Samuel Ntanda’s header, which gave DR Congo a surprise 16th-minute lead.

Ghana responded through Musibau Aziz eight minutes later but despite sustained pressure in the second half, they couldn’t find a winner.

It was a scrappy but competitive affair, as both sides looked to assert early dominance in a group where holders Senegal had earlier been held 1-1 by Central African Republic.

Ntanda gave the Congolese the lead after rising highest to nod home Messy Manitu’s pinpoint cross, capping off a bright opening spell by the Central Africans.

But Ghana quickly regrouped and equalised when Emmanuel Mensah whipped in a dangerous cross that was met by Aziz, whose low finish left the goalkeeper with no chance.

Ghana began to take control after that, with Abdul Sulemana and Andrews Adjabeng linking well down the flanks. Aziz nearly had a second just before the break but his close-range header was brilliantly saved.
The second half was a more tense, physical battle.

Congo DR’s substitutions helped them regain some control, while Ghana brought on key forward Jerry Afriyie in search of more attacking threat.
The Black Satellites saw several shots fly just off target, including a late header from Afriyie.

Ghana had more possession and created the better chances, but DR Congo remained organised and showed real commitment to hold firm under pressure.

Both teams made late substitutions, but the scoreline remained unchanged despite Ghana’s push for a late winner.

The result leaves Group C wide open after matchday one, with all four teams tied on one point.

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.