It is refreshing to note that Ghana’s economy has witnessed some level of improvement in the first half of the year, based on the macroeconomic indicators outlined by the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. Similar data, shown by multilaterals such as the International Monetary Fund and other institutions such as Barclays PLC, Standard Bank and Goldman Sachs, have demonstrated that the performance of the economy is on track

The Institute of Public Policy and Accountability (IPPA) applauds the current government for showing commitment to further revitalise the economy. But the previous regime deserves to be commended too for helping to stabilise the economy after two consecutive years of struggle. According to the Ghana Statistical Service, the economy grew strongly in the first quarter of 2025 to 5.3% in quarter one 2025, as against 4.9% during the same period in 2024; inflation also tumbled to 13.7% in June 2025, from 23.8% in December 2024; whilst the Ghana Cedi witnessed its best run in several decades as one of the top currencies in the world so far this year with a year-to-date gain of about 30%. Interest rates have also declined by a substantial 1300 basis points to 14.7% in June 2025. All these show signs of economic recovery, which have culminated in the upgrade of Ghana’s credit rating by Fitch. Moody’s and S&P are expected to follow in that order.

Nonetheless, the monetary economy has more time to become resilient. The policy rate is still high, though the Bank of Ghana is expected to cut the rate by about 200 basis points in its next meeting this week. Non-Performing Loans are still high at an average of 21% and the cost of credit is still expensive. These add to the cost of operating a business in the country despite an improvement in some macroeconomic indices. IPPA is thus urging the finance minister to work closely with the Bank of Ghana Governor to achieve a robust banking sector that is cost-effective and boost investor confidence.

We also agree with the finance minister’s assertion that there is still a long road ahead of us. We are saying so because the debt levels are high (GH¢613 billion as at end-June 2025) despite falling significantly, whilst the debt restructuring has not been fully completed. IPPA wants to see a smooth completion of the programme with the bilateral creditors and also the Eurobond holders. This is essential because of future debt transactions. We shouldn’t forget that the World Bank still classifies Ghana as a country with a high debt distress level. Similarly, we have huge bullet payments of both domestic and external debts to be paid in 2026, 2027 and 2028 respectively (Domestic debt: GH¢20billion in 2026, GH¢50.3billion in 2027 and GH¢45.75billion in 2028) (Foreign domestic: US$1.42 billion in 2026, US$1.17 billion in 2027, and US$1.14 billion in 2028).

Building Investor Confidence

The significant strides toward rebuilding international reserves and taking steps to bring inflation down are commendable, and the previous authorities must also be applauded. This has increased investor confidence. We have seen immense growth in the Ghana Stock Exchange so far in 2025. 19 out of 36 stocks have recorded gains, as against one loss. The GSE-CI has also recorded a gain of 31.67%. The bond market has also rebounded with some impressive trading activities. This is great for investors. We at IPPA believe the improved economic fundamentals must be sustained to stimulate the capital market, local and foreign investments. We also want the government to implement a cap on borrowing from both the domestic and international markets. We are worried that the government is still borrowing heavily on the domestic market despite promising to reduce its appetite for that market.

Fiscal Performance

The fiscal performance has been on track. Debt obligations are being honoured, but our concern is the heavy borrowing on the domestic market. Although yields have decreased by more than 13 percentage points, there are still some downside risks. The debt market is gradually picking up, but turnover is not up to the levels of pre-debt exchange. We are therefore advising the government not to rush and open the bond market but to fully conclude the debt restructuring programme.

Revenue performance has also not been the best in the first half of 2025, despite the overall fiscal balance on a cash basis improving from a deficit of 4.1% of GDP to 3.8% of GDP. This underperformance was attributed to systemic revenue leakages at key customs collection points, notably the Tema Port, and the smuggling of goods across our land borders. Though we welcome the deployment of Artificial Intelligence at the ports to tackle smuggling and fraud, we should remember that humans will operate the system. Punitive and severe actions must be taken against perpetrators of this act. We must also digitize all payment systems to reduce cash payments to curb corruption. On expenditure, the issue of wages and salaries exceeded the budget by GH¢1.3 billion for the first six months of 2025 is a major issue. Addressing ghost names immediately will go a long way toward reducing the pressure on government spending and creating space for investments in some capital projects.

Social Programmes

On the construction of new roads and rehabilitation of existing ones and priority projects, this is ambitious based on the current financial situation of the country. However, we welcome the decision to undertake these projects. IPPA will thus urge the finance minister to prioritise the projects. We believe the government should, as a matter of urgency, complete the road construction started by the erstwhile administration before starting new projects.

Macroeconomic Targets

We believe that macroeconomic targets (Overall Real GDP growth of at least 4.0%; Non-Oil Real GDP growth of at least 4.8%; End-year inflation rate of 11.9%; Primary balance on commitment basis at a surplus of 1.5% of GDP and a Gross International Reserves covering not less than three months of imports are achievable based on the current trajectory and if there are no severe exogenous shocks. Let’s remember that Ghana has not been able to stand the test of time, when there are external shocks; examples are the impact of the subprime mortgage crisis in the USA in 2007 and the recent Covid-19 crisis and the ongoing Russian/Ukraine war. These shocks caused elevated inflation, increased interest rates currency depreciation and impacted emerging economist severely.

Conclusion

As we previously mentioned, the Mid-Year Budget appears promising, but it does not outline adequate strategies to address external shocks. It is welcoming to establish two separate sinking fund accounts to help Ghana repay both domestic and external debts falling due between 2026 and 2028, without putting fresh pressure on the national budget. However, have we considered any turmoil more severe than COVID-19 or the Russian/Ukraine war? Going forward, the country must diversify its export earnings and not rely only on gold, cocoa and crude oil. It must be a conscious effort to increase export commodities of the country to include shea nut, oil palm, other extractives, etc. This will not only boost exports but also widen the trade surplus of the country. Adequate international reserves will be built to limit or slow down exchange rate depreciation in times of global headwinds.

The Bank of Ghana should also enhance its gold purchasing programme. This programme has helped increase the central banks’ gold reserves to withstand shocks in times of turbulence. The recent aggressive cedi appreciation was largely due to BoG’s aggressive intervention in the FX market because it has adequate FX. However, part of the cedi’s strength was due to the weak dollar in the first half of the year due to some aggressive policies such as the trade war or tariff imposition by US President Donald Trump. The dollar index, which measures the currency’s strength against a basket of six others, including the pound, euro and yen, fell 10.8 percent in the first half of 2025. We believe the central bank should allow market forces to dictate the pricing of the USD/ Cedi.

Secondly, we must reduce our appetite for borrowing, both domestically and internationally. The government must go full digitalization in the collection of both direct and indirect taxes. The same should be done for property tax to reduce irregularities and corruption. We should borrow for investment projects that will generate jobs. IPPA therefore welcomes the government initiative to establish the University of Environment and Sustainable Development at Bunso and nine State-of-the-Art Technical and Vocational Education Training Centres.

Finally, and not least, we as a country should deliberately create indigenous giant entrepreneurs to compete on the African continent and even globally. This will stimulate employment creation. Let’s take a cue from Nigeria, which has created many billionaires. These billionaires have established institutions in banking (UBA, Zenith, GT Bank), telecom (Glo), and cement (Dangote). These institutions have expanded their footprint on the African continent and Ghana must replicate that policy. We must be deliberate and avoid politics with this policy.

By Paul Twum-Barimah
Executive Director
Institute of Public Policy and Accountability

HE National Democratic Congress (NDC), under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to transform Ghana into a 24-hour economy. 

This visionary policy represents a timely and strategic response to growing unemployment, underutilised infrastructure, and inefficiencies in service delivery. 

When properly implemented, a 24-hour economy can stimulate inclusive economic growth, enhance public sector productivity and improve the overall quality of life for Ghanaians.

This article provides a framework for the phased implementation of the 24-hour economy, starting with the public sector, based on the government’s role as the largest employer and job creator.

1. Rationale 

Globally, countries that operate around the clock often exhibit higher economic output, greater employment absorption and improved efficiency in public services. 

In Ghana, where youth unemployment remains high and public services are often congested during working hours, extending operations beyond the traditional 8a.m–5p.m window is both necessary and beneficial.

Key anticipated benefits include expanding shifts across sectors, creating opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians; citizens will have more flexible access to essential public and private services; underutilised assets such as buildings, equipment, and technology can be maximised, and a night-time economy generates new demand for transportation, energy, retail and hospitality services.

2. Starting with public sector 

The most effective way to demonstrate commitment and establish credibility is to begin implementation within government-managed institutions. 

A public sector-led approach offers the advantage of centralised control and policy direction. Priority institutions should include:

a) Healthcare facilities: Hospitals, polyclinics and emergency medical centres already operate on a 24-hour basis. Their current structures can be strengthened with improved funding, staffing, and logistics to serve as benchmarks for other sectors.

b) Educational institutions: Universities, technical schools, and public libraries can extend their hours to support flexible learning, research and skills training. Evening and weekend classes would especially benefit adult learners and working professionals.

c) Public Administrative Services: Agencies such as the Passport Office, Births and Deaths Registry, Ghana Immigration Service, DVLA, and the Registrar General’s Department often experience long queues and delays. Introducing extended hours or night shifts can: reduce congestion and waiting times; increase document processing capacity, and improve citizen satisfaction and trust in public institutions.

3. Shift systems

A full 24-hour economy involves three daily shifts (8-hour shifts covering the full day). However, a phased shift system should be adopted in the beginning: a two-shift model consisting of a day shift from 7:00a.m to 3:00p.m and an evening shift from 3:00p.m to 10:00p.m.

This model eases the burden of overnight operations and allows both staff and the public to gradually adapt. It also minimises utility costs and security concerns associated with night-time operations. Over time, institutions with high demand and readiness can transition into a full Three-Shift Model.

4. Labour considerations

The expansion of working hours will require significant recruitment, upskilling and adjustment of working conditions. The government must work closely with labour unions to review wage structures, shift allowances, and health and safety protocols, human resource departments to develop fair and transparent shift rosters, and training institutions to prepare a pipeline of skilled workers for new job openings.

Government incentives such as tax reliefs or subsidies can also be provided to private sector companies that adopt the 24-hour model.

5. Readiness

Infrastructure investments must precede or accompany policy roll-out. Key priorities include reliable energy supply, street lighting, public transportation and increased visibility of security services and presence at night.

6. Digital transformation

The digitalisation of public services can significantly enhance the success of a 24-hour economy. Key recommendations include 24/7 online access to government services like passport applications, tax filing and business registration; e-payment systems for faster and safer transactions, and data analytics and monitoring systems to track demand, performance, and citizen feedback in real-time.

7. Engagement

While the public sector leads the charge, the private sector including manufacturing, retail, banking, logistics, and hospitality should be encouraged to follow suit. 

Many manufacturers already operate night shifts during periods of high demand. Government can provide tax incentives and flexible labour laws to support transition, promote collaborations between public and private firms such as public-private partnerships for service delivery at night, and facilitate access to capital for small businesses seeking to expand into night operations.

The informal sector, including markets, vendors, and transport operators, also plays a crucial role. Their inclusion in planning and support structures such as lighting, sanitation, and security is essential.

8. Public awareness 

A national campaign must be launched to inform citizens about the objectives and benefits of the 24-hour economy, new service hours and channels, their rights as workers and consumers under the new model, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media must be engaged to promote inclusive dialogue and social acceptance.

Conclusion

The 24-hour economy, if strategically implemented, can serve as a powerful tool to address unemployment, increase public sector productivity, and enhance national competitiveness. 

A well-coordinated rollout starting with the public sector—supported by infrastructural investments, workforce expansion, and stakeholder engagement—will position Ghana as a forward-thinking, productivity-driven nation. 

This transformation, however, requires political will, policy coherence, and sustained public support. It is not merely a slogan; it must be a national development strategy.

The writer is the Head of Marketing Department at the University of Professional Studies, Accra. [email protected] 

In today’s interconnected world, the digital gap between small businesses and large corporations is quickly closing—thanks to cloud technology. Whether you’re running a fashion brand in Osu, a logistics firm in Tema, or a food distribution startup in Tamale, embracing the cloud can give your small business a significant boost in productivity, cost savings, and competitiveness. Cloud technology isn’t just for multinationals or tech giants. It’s a flexible, affordable, and scalable solution that can futureproof your business—especially in a country like Ghana, where digital transformation is gaining rapid momentum.

A smarter way to compete

For too long, many Ghanaian small businesses have believed that adopting advanced technology is a luxury only big players can afford. Not anymore. With cloud solutions, your business can operate like a larger, more established company—without the large overheads. You can streamline operations, store data securely, and provide services faster and smarter.

“Cloud solutions level the playing field,” says Kwesi Boateng, an IT consultant based in East Legon. “Even a team of five people can now access the kind of computing power that used to be exclusive to large enterprises.” What’s more, implementation doesn’t require months of planning or large upfront investment. Tailored cloud packages are available through local IT partners, and many setups can be done overnight with zero disruption to daily operations.

Flexible solutions for local challenges

Small businesses in Ghana often face challenges like inconsistent power supply, limited physical infrastructure, and the need to operate remotely. Cloud computing solves these problems by allowing teams to access business systems from anywhere—with just a smartphone or laptop and an internet connection.

Whether you run payroll, inventory, sales, or accounting, the cloud integrates your functions into one accessible platform. You no longer need to chase paper trails or worry about who updated what. You get real-time visibility into how your business is performing. As your business grows, cloud systems can scale with you—whether you’re hiring more staff, expanding to new regions, or managing high customer demand during festive seasons.

Cost savings that make sense

One of the biggest misconceptions about digital transformation is that it’s expensive. In fact, the cloud can save your business money.

• Instead of buying expensive computers for everyone, staff can use their own devices, reducing hardware costs.
• With more businesses embracing hybrid and remote work, smaller offices mean lower rent and utility bills.
• Cloud platforms often come with built-in sustainability benefits, using less energy and reducing environmental impact—a growing consideration for eco-conscious businesses in Ghana.

“We moved to a cloud-based invoicing system last year, and our electricity and printing costs dropped by nearly 40percent,” says Mabel Owusu, owner of a boutique furniture business in Kumasi.

Work from anywhere, hire from everywhere

In the past, recruitment was largely limited to candidates within commuting distance of your office. But cloud technology has eliminated location barriers, allowing you to recruit top talent from anywhere in Ghana—or even beyond. Collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, and Zoom allow seamless communication, meetings, file sharing, and project tracking. Whether your team is in Ho, Sunyani, or working from home in Dansoman, everyone can stay connected and productive.

Building resilience for the future

Every business faces unexpected challenges—whether it’s flooding, fire, hardware failure, or a cybersecurity scare. But with cloud systems, your data is automatically backed up and protected, reducing downtime and ensuring business continuity. This kind of digital resilience is critical for small businesses, where even a brief disruption can lead to customer dissatisfaction, lost revenue, or permanent closure.

A simple step that leads to big results

The idea of “going to the cloud” might sound overwhelming, but in reality, it’s easier than registering your business with the Registrar General’s Department. Most local cloud providers offer user-friendly onboarding, training, and support to get you started quickly and with confidence. Whether your goal is to improve cash flow visibility, run remote teams, attract better staff, or simply cut costs, cloud technology is the next logical step in your business journey.

In summary

Ghanaian small businesses have never had more opportunity to grow, scale, and compete globally. With the cloud, you’re not just catching up—you’re leaping ahead.

Cloud adoption means:

• Lower operational costs
• Greater flexibility
• Real-time insights
• A wider talent pool
• And the peace of mind that your business is prepared for tomorrow.

The cloud is not the future—it’s the now. And it’s ready for you.

>>>the writer is a seasoned cloud architect and systems administrator with expertise in leading technical teams to create innovative platforms. As CTO of eSolutions Consulting, he has spearheaded major projects like the Office 365 rollout for Ghana’s government and infrastructure deployment for the Ghana Revenue Authority. Recognized for his strategic use of emerging technologies, Allen has led his team to multiple Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, solidifying his role as a key leader in tech-driven business transformation. If you’d like to explore how these strategies can help your organization thrive, reach out to discuss tailored solutions for your business growth journey. He can be reached via [email protected] and or 0540123034

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

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

Dr Kwabena Duffour is the founder of defunt uniBank

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, while justifying his decision to drop the case against former finance minister Dr Kwabena Duffour and seven others, who were facing charges in connection with the collapse of the defunct uniBank, listed the wrongdoings of the accused persons.

Dr Ayine stated that Dr Duffour and the seven others had not been charged with causing financial loss to the state and did not steal the money involved in the case.

He, however, indicated that the total amount of GH¢3.3 billion quoted in the case included GH¢2.1 billion, which the accused persons misrepresented as the capital of uniBank to the Bank of Ghana (BoG).

He said that the accused persons did so just to give the perception that their bank was doing well.

“The charges in the criminal case involve a total amount of GH¢2.1 billion, not GH¢5.7 billion… The previously reported exposure of GH¢5.7 billion was reduced to GH¢3.3 billion, which comprises the following: the exclusion of GH¢2.1 billion in the alleged fictitious amounts booked to the account of the shareholder, which did not involve cash outflows. In other words, monies didn’t go out to anybody; these were just book entries that were designed to make the books of uniBank look good.

“That is how come, in the criminal case, the charge of falsification of accounts was brought against them. So, they did not loot the money. They did not give the money to anybody. They just made entries that were meant to give the Bank of Ghana, the impression that the bank was doing well,” he said.

Dr Ayine also pointed out that the crimes the accused persons are alleged to have committed included the misrepresentation of the figures of one of their companies, which was under the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

He said that the criminal case against the accused persons included, “The exclusion of GH¢300,000 relating to uniBank’s placement with the SEC-regulated company currently in receivership, which is being pursued separately through the insolvency proceedings.”

BAI/VPO

Meanwhile, watch as Prophet Worlasi shares bombshell prophesies on Bawumia and NPP on The Lowdown:

Dr Edward Omane Boamah is the Minister of Defence

The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has disclosed that the government is undertaking significant measures to retool the Ghana Armed Forces to strengthen internal peace, improve national security, and protect Ghana’s territorial integrity.

According to him, this initiative forms a key part of the ‘Reset Ghana Agenda’ being spearheaded by the Mahama administration.

In a post shared on his official Facebook page on Tuesday, July 29, Dr Omane Boamah stated, “We’re taking additional significant steps to re-tool the Ghana Armed Forces, ensuring internal peace and security everywhere and safeguarding our territories. The Mahama Government is committed to #ResetGhana, and we’re working tirelessly to make it happen.”

He emphasised that the goal is to build a modern, well-equipped, and professional military capable of responding effectively to both internal and external threats.

The minister assured Ghanaians that the government is focused on delivering peace, particularly in conflict-prone areas such as Bawku, where long-standing tensions have disrupted normal life.

“Lasting peace shall surely return to Bawku and all affected areas,” he stated.

Dr Omane Boamah also called for national unity in supporting efforts to build a more secure and resilient country.

“Let’s collaborate and build a safer, stronger Ghana together,” he added.

The retooling of the armed forces is expected to include improved logistics, advanced equipment, and enhanced welfare for security personnel across the country.

AS/VPO

Meanwhile, watch as Prophet Worlasi shares bombshell prophesies on Bawumia and NPP on The Lowdown:

Accra, July 29, GNA – The Ghana Tuna Association (GTA), and the Ghana Industrial Trawlers Association, representing the Joint Industrial Fisheries Sector (JIFS) have appealed to the government to address their concerns regarding the adverse impact of the new Fisheries Bill on their businesses.

According to them the Bill jointly sponsored by the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the Fisheries Commission and passed by Parliament and awaiting presidential assent could expose offshore personnel and Ghanaian vessels to criminal bandits and terrorist attacks in high seas and further strangulate the fisheries sector leading to its imminent collapse.

They called on the President John Dramani Mahama and the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin to reconsider the passage of the new Fisheries Bill.

According to them, a specific provision in the bill threatened to inflict irreparable harm on the industrial fisheries sector—an outcome they warned would cripple their operations and negatively impact national food security, job creation, and the growth of Ghana’s blue economy.

A petition, signed by Frank K. Aihoon, President of GTA, Stephen Adjokatcher

Ag. President GITA and Richster Nii Amarh Amarfio, Vice President- NAFAG and addressed to President John Dramani Mahama and Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, GTA and GITA called for urgent government intervention and urged that the President withhold assent until their concerns were addressed.

At the heart of their petition is a clause that seeks to extend Ghana’s Inshore Exclusion Zone (IEZ) from 6 to 12 nautical miles.

According to them, this extension would bar their vessels from accessing areas critical to their operations, despite decades of lawful activity within those waters.

“Our vessels are Ghanaian-flagged, meaning they are artificial citizens of Ghana,” the Association emphasized. “By legislating us out of the 12-nautical mile territorial sea, it’s as if we are being ostracized from our own country.”

The group further stated that Ghana’s current IEZ—defined as either the 30-meter depth contour or 6 nautical miles, whichever is further—is already one of the most restrictive in the West African region.

“ In contrast, countries like Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and Liberia maintain IEZs of only 5 to 6 nautical miles”.

The GTA pointed out that during the last parliamentary stakeholder consultation, there was agreement on three key issues, thus:The current IEZ provision (6 nautical miles or 30-meter depth contour) is problematic; The IEZ should be fixed at 6 nautical miles only; and any future expansion should be supported by new scientific studies.

They challenged the rationale that illegal fishing activities by some trawl vessels justify such a legislative change, warning that anecdotal or enforcement issues should not be used as a scientific basis to penalize the entire industrial sector.

“All our vessels—tuna and trawl—are equipped with Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) that track movement and activity in real time,” the Association stated. “The Ghana Maritime Authority and Ghana Navy both have 24-hour surveillance, and we also maintain 100% human observer coverage on board.”

The group emphasized that unless there was transparent, independently verified bathymetric and ecological data, any extension of the IEZ to 12 nautical miles would lack scientific legitimacy and could cause irreversible harm to the sector.

They warned that the proposed expansion risks undermining Ghana’s commitment to sustainable fisheries management, international investment, and coastal livelihoods, particularly in a time when collaboration and transparency are essential to address climate change and ocean degradation.

“The industrial fisheries sector now awaits the President’s next steps, hopeful that their petition will prompt a reconsideration of the bill in the national interest”.

GNA

Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba

ASANTE KOTOKO head coach Karim Zito has confirmed that the team will open their pre-season training camp on Wednesday, July 30, in Cape Coast, as they prepare for the 2025/26 season.

The Ghanaian FA Cup champions recently returned home after clinching the 2025 Toyota Cup in Durban, South Africa, where they edged Kaizer Chiefs 5-4 on penalties at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Speaking to the media, Zito revealed that his players have been granted a brief rest following their grueling Cup campaign but will regroup midweek to commence full preparations.

“I shouldn’t go all out at the moment. We will start running very soon. Maybe on Wednesday, we’ll begin the pre-season camp in Cape Coast,” the experienced coach said.

Kotoko’s immediate focus will be the 2025 GHALCA Top 4 tournament, scheduled for August 20–24 at the Baba Yara Stadium. The competition will serve as a key test ahead of the Porcupine Warriors’ Ghana Premier League title chase and their CAF Confederation Cup campaign.

By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu

Keta (VR), July 29, GNA – Mr. Bill Godson Ocloo, a Security Analyst, has expressed worry about the recent surge in violence at Bawku, a town near the Ghana’s border with Burkina Faso, which has resulted in unwarranted deaths including students and left many more injured.

Mr. Ocloo said that the latest escalation of violence at Bawku was a stark reminder of the need for an urgent solution to the decades-long conflict in the area to protect and safeguard the citizens.

Mr. Ocloo, who is also the Executive Director of African Centre for Human Security, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), said that the Bawku conflict was primarily driven by a chieftaincy dispute between the Mamprusi and Kusasi people.

“The historical disagreements, ethnic tensions, and power struggles have fueled the conflict, which has been ongoing for years and has resulted in loss of many lives,” he said.

He said that the conflict has had severe effects on the community, including loss of life, displacement, economic disruption, fear and insecurity and residents have been forced to flee their homes, and students have been evacuated from schools in the area.

Mr. Ocloo noted that the recent surge in violence has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people, including students and civilians and the tragic loss of life highlighted the urgent need for government to find a lasting solution to solve the conflict.

“This conflict has disrupted economic activity in the region, affecting businesses and livelihoods. Many residents have been forced to flee their homes, leading to a significant displacement of people.”

The Security Analyst called for an urgent solution to the conflict, citing the need for increased security presence, enforcement of curfew, dialogue, and mediation with an immediate action to address the underlying causes of the conflict.

He proposed that the government should deploy more security personnel to the area, enforce the curfew, and engage in dialogue with the feuding parties to resolve the conflict peacefully and address the underlying causes of the conflict such as historical disagreements and power struggles which were crucial to finding a lasting solution.

He said the Bawku conflict has significant implications for the region which include regional instability, humanitarian crisis, and economic consequences with the conflict having a potential to further destabilise the region, particularly taking the porous nature of borders with Burkina Faso into consideration.

Mr. Ocloo appealed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and other security agencies to increase patrols, gather intelligence, engage with the community, and collaborate with other agencies to ensure a coordinated response to the conflict.

He said the curfew imposed in the area has had both positive and negative effects. While it has helped to reduce violence and prevent further attacks, it has also caused inconvenience to residents and disrupted economic activity.

He added that, “The Bawku conflict requires a holistic approach, combining security, dialogue, community engagement, and development efforts. The government and security agencies must work collaboratively with local leaders to restore peace, ensure justice, and address underlying grievances.”

He urged the government, security agencies, and local stakeholders to work together to help restore peace and ensure a brighter future for the people of Bawku in promoting peace, stability, and development in the area.

GNA

Edited by: Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah

GSE Composite Index falls amid decline in trade volume

The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) Composite Index declined at the close of trading on Monday, falling to 6,644.69 points, translating to a Year-to-Date (YTD) return of 35.92%.

However, the Financial Stocks Index posted a marginal gain climbing 0.98 points to close at 3,413.27 points with its YTD return at 43.37%.

Market capitalisation saw a notable increase, rising by GH¢352.79 million to GH¢141.83 billion, supported by gains in select equities.

Despite the uptick in market value, trade activity experienced a sharp decline. A total of 9,418,351 shares exchanged hands representing a 63.73% drop compared to the previous session.

The total value of trades executed stood at GH¢32,477,375.00.

Benso Oil Palm Plantation (BOPP) led the day’s gainers, appreciating to GH¢34.26 per share.

On the flip side TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana (TOTAL) recorded a decline closing lower at GH¢29.94.

Market heavyweight MTN Ghana (MTNGH) emerged as the most actively traded equity, with 9,143,644 shares traded, valued at GH¢29,718,183.00.

It was followed by CAL Bank, TOTAL, SIC Insurance, and GCB Bank, rounding up the top five most traded stocks by volume.

SP/AE

How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on African leaders to build a future where human rights are protected.

He made the call at the 13th African Union High-Level Dialogue on Democracy, Governance and Human Rights held at the Accra International Conference Centre.

The Minister, in his address, stressed the importance of the dialogue as he expressed confidence that it would help shape ideas and policies to benefit not just a privileged few.

“We aspire for this conference to go beyond conventional dialogue. May it provide a distinguished platform for the exchange of innovative ideas, facilitate open and sincere discussions, and cultivate a collective commitment to nurturing an African continent where rights are respected, voices are heard, justice is upheld, the democratic dividend is consciously harnessed, and opportunities are created for the many and not a few.

“We must do this mindful of the global backdrop where efforts to address such matters in international circles have often been hampered by a lack of political will, moral courage and oftentimes outright resistance by detractors to these conversations.

Fast-track Otumfuo’s mediation to end Bawku crisis – Yendi MP to gov’t

In a major development for corporate football in Ghana, a team from the University of Ghana Corporate Football League will represent the country at the World Corporate Championship set to take place in Morocco this October.

The exciting announcement was made by Mr. Yaw Sakyi Afari, Head of RITE Sports Services, during the press conference today held ahead of the league’s 2025 Grand Finale event on Friday 25th July at the UG Sports Stadium from 5pm.

According to Mr. Afari, the selection of a team from the UG Corporate Football League marks a historic moment for both the league and corporate sports in Ghana.

He described it as a significant opportunity to showcase Ghana’s corporate football talents on an international platform, and highlighted the professionalism and competitiveness displayed throughout the 19-week league as the reason Ghana has earned this global spotlight.

To provide more insight, Mr. Yakub Alfa Suleiman, Director of Operations at Corporate Sports Ghana, explained that the World Corporate Championship in Morocco is an elite gathering of top corporate teams from around the world.

He believes a team from the University of Ghana Corporate Football League has what it takes to make a mark on that stage.

As anticipation builds for the UG Corporate Football League Grand Finale, this international announcement adds an extra layer of excitement and a new goal for the teams.

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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Agricultural workers have welcomed President John Mahama’s policy eliminating import duties on agro-processing machinery, announced July 28, 2025.

Andrews Addoquaye Tagoe, General Secretary of the General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU), called the move a direct response to longstanding industry advocacy. He credited persistent campaigning, notably alongside Channel One News, for influencing the decision.

Tagoe expressed cautious optimism during the National Agribusiness Dialogue in Accra, stressing that implementation will define the policy’s success. “Why impose high duties when growing our agro-economy?” he remarked to Citi Business News, urging immediate action by relevant institutions. The union leader warned that bureaucratic delays could undermine the waiver’s impact, citing past administrative hurdles.

He highlighted complexities in accessing similar benefits, noting applicants often navigate multiple agencies merely to obtain port clearance documents.

“Without streamlined processes,” Tagoe cautioned, “importers risk paying more than intended at ports.” The policy forms part of broader government efforts to boost value addition in Ghana’s agricultural sector.

Dr Kwabena Duffour is the founder of defunt uniBank

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, while justifying his decision to drop the case against former finance minister Dr Kwabena Duffour and seven others, who were facing charges in connection with the collapse of the defunct uniBank, listed the wrongdoings of the accused persons.

Dr Ayine stated that Dr Duffour and the seven others had not been charged with causing financial loss to the state and did not steal the money involved in the case.

He, however, indicated that the total amount of GH¢3.3 billion quoted in the case included GH¢2.1 billion, which the accused persons misrepresented as the capital of uniBank to the Bank of Ghana (BoG).

He said that the accused persons did so just to give the perception that their bank was doing well.

“The charges in the criminal case involve a total amount of GH¢2.1 billion, not GH¢5.7 billion… The previously reported exposure of GH¢5.7 billion was reduced to GH¢3.3 billion, which comprises the following: the exclusion of GH¢2.1 billion in the alleged fictitious amounts booked to the account of the shareholder, which did not involve cash outflows. In other words, monies didn’t go out to anybody; these were just book entries that were designed to make the books of uniBank look good.

“That is how come, in the criminal case, the charge of falsification of accounts was brought against them. So, they did not loot the money. They did not give the money to anybody. They just made entries that were meant to give the Bank of Ghana, the impression that the bank was doing well,” he said.

Dr Ayine also pointed out that the crimes the accused persons are alleged to have committed included the misrepresentation of the figures of one of their companies, which was under the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

He said that the criminal case against the accused persons included, “The exclusion of GH¢300,000 relating to uniBank’s placement with the SEC-regulated company currently in receivership, which is being pursued separately through the insolvency proceedings.”

BAI/VPO

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