“I only know how to compete,” he said to himself when he retired from playing in 2004. Managing was the only option for the former Barcelona and Spain forward.

As a coach, Luis Enrique has copied the philosophy of his former team-mate Pep Guardiola from the beginning.

He hasn’t brought anything truly new to the table, but, using the tonnes of energy he has, he has become one of the top representatives of a broader cultural shift.

His relentless edge is now driving everything at Paris St-Germain, although initially he didn’t even want the job.

He thought the club only cared about names. Players such as Neymar, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Uncoachable, he assumed.

But when he heard the philosophy had changed – that they now wanted to build a team – he reconsidered.

And, soon after he arrived, Neymar and Marco Verratti were gone. Messi, who might have stayed had he known Luis Enrique was coming, had already committed to Inter Miami.

He understands and appreciates the importance of individual stars, but only up to a point.

In a recent documentary about his first season at PSG, he was seen warning Mbappe, his star player at the time, about his obligation to fulfil his defensive duties – just after the player had scored a hat-trick.

“He’s the best player in the world,” the Asturian insisted several times. “But if the team with the best player in the world always won, PSG would have eight Champions League titles and they haven’t had any.”

He is a manager who respects structure, but is never afraid to speak his mind.

“I’m not afraid of the worst in football… if they sack me, no problem,” he said. “The next day, I’ll go for a cycling trip.”

It’s that perspective that helped him ride out a rocky start last season – including a 4–1 loss to Newcastle in the Champions League and heavy criticism from the supporters.

But he stayed calm and kept faith in his footballing beliefs. Structure, repetition, and positional discipline.

His dream? One day, managers will have mics in the stands and be able to talk players through their positions during a match.

He had to rewire a squad addicted to chaos when he arrived in Paris.

So he spent little time in an office, instead sitting with his assistants, working directly with his players and embedding his ideas.

Some players push back against his intensity. Mbappe, for example, didn’t love being boxed in as a number nine or publicly challenged after a hat-trick.

But others thrive, because he doesn’t do favourites.

Project to empower adolescent girls and young women on how best to address their own challenges has successfully ended.

The project, dubbed “Be Smart, Learn and Stay Protected”, was implemented by Plan International Ghana with financial support from Nivea through the German National Office of Plan International.

It covered young females from two regions – Akuapem North in the Eastern Region, Jasikan in the Oti Region and the Upper Manya Krobo District, also in the Eastern Region.

In all, 20 communities were covered.

Challenges

The project was on the theme: “Empowered Girls, Learn and Get Protected from Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). It enabled the females to go through the necessary aspects of education that will empower them to face challenges.

The participants in the closing ceremony in Koforidua

The initiative, which was carried out in two phases from February 2021-January 2023 and February 2023-January 2025, led to a reduction in teenage pregnancies, strengthened child protection structures, economic empowerment and increased girls’ participation in schools.

It also led to the reaffirmation of the notion of emphasis to be put at the right place on girls and children relating to the empowerment of families and communities.

In his address at a ceremony to end the project in Koforidua last Tuesday, the Country Director of Plan International Ghana, Professor Constant Tchona, said every girl had the right to education, to be heard, to be safe and to thrive.

Enabling environment

He indicated that Plan International’s theory of change was not only to focus on the girl but on creating an enabling environment around her to be empowered to learn and protected from harm.

In view of that, Prof. Tchona stated that his outfit had worked tirelessly to ensure that adolescent girls, especially those facing the greatest challenges, such as sexual and gender-based violence, were given the opportunity to rise above their circumstances.

To support them in overcoming such challenges, the Plan International Ghana Country Director intimated that his organisation had set up adolescent clubs with centres as safe places for learning and growth.

That, he explained, had not only improved their conditions but also made their confidence soar.

Professor Tchona added that such girls formally limited by circumstances now possessed self-assurance to voice their opinions, pursue aspirations and stand tall against challenges faced.

He told the gathering that there had been a decrease in teenage pregnancies in the various communities covered.

Training

Professor Tchona stated that the training had protected the young females from sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and created an environment where they could learn, grow and feel secure.

According to the Country Director of Plan International Ghana, one of the most remarkable developments of the initiative had been the unwavering support of community leaders, chiefs, opinion and religious leaders, who not only lent their voices but also took bold action in refusing to preside over any form of injustice against girls, especially those just fined under the guise of culture and tradition.

He was of the view that such communities would no longer tolerate harmful practices affecting girls, adding that the rights of the girls would be upheld.

The girls, he said, had been provided apprenticeship training with start-up kits to start their own livelihoods, while parents were also being supported with loans to take up their responsibilities with dignity and confidence.

Prof. Tchona stressed that the journey had not been with challenges and hoped that the young females would no more face challenges that hitherto went against their progress.

Project Overview

The Project Manager of Be Smart, Learn and Stay Protected, Bless Kofi Vieku, who gave the overview of the project mentioned three out of the 20 communities that had been covered as Akateng in Upper Manya Krobo District, Mangoase in the Akuapem North Municipality and Okajakrom in the Oti Region.

He indicated that the project had significantly reduced teenage pregnancies among teenage girls in the beneficiary communities where the project operated.

Mr Vieku stated that the project was initiated in response to the worsening situation of gender inequalities, teenage pregnancies, school dropouts and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), among other issues.

He said the project had a total budget of €654,514 for two years, spanning February 2023 to January 2025, adding that adolescent clubs were established in all the 20 project areas and that each group comprised 15 girls and 10 boys.

Peer educators

Mr Vieku said 10 peer educators were selected from these clubs, consisting of seven girls and three boys, explaining that the peer educators were trained to lead adolescent-friendly activities aimed at improving their peers’ knowledge of adolescent growth and development, protection, risks, behaviours and proactive measures to prevent and protect themselves from abuse.

One of the beneficiaries from the Jasikan Municipality in the Oti Region, Amenuvor Deborah, told the Daily Graphic that the project had built her capacity with knowledge and skills to continue educating her colleagues to minimise or eradicate teenage pregnancy and sexual and gender-based violence in her municipality.

Writer’s email: [email protected]

Official artwork of the show

The Saturday, March 29, 2025, edition of UTV’s United Showbiz programme is live, with Ola Michael discharging his duties as host.

Today’s edition of the entertainment show is live, featuring panelists discussing the major entertainment issues of the week.

Osei Felicia, Vida Adutwumwaa, and Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo have been billed as pundits for the show.

Prophet Kumchacha, General Ntatia, and Daughter of Glorious Jesus are also on the bill to bring some nuance to the conversations about the respective issues.

Four people have died in a clash between the youth of Wiamoase and Ntonso in the Ashanti Region.

Sources say all four deceased are youth of Ntonso who attended a funeral at Wiamoase.

JoyNews enquiries have revealed that a misunderstanding ensued between two youth groups over an issue that is yet to be established.

It further degenerated into a free-for-all fight, with some youth of the Ntonso community brandishing pistols.

Two women were shot in the process, enraging the Wiamoase youth.

According to JoyNews sources, the Wiamoase youth armed themselves with machetes and attacked the rival group, leading to the killing of four people.

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.

Kim Lars Bjorkegren picked up a one nil win on his first game as Black Queens head coach in the friendly on Saturday (05 March) against Senegal.

Evelyn Badu scored the only goal of the game as Ghana defeated Senegal in the first of two friendlies of the training tour in Dakar.

The win was also the team’s first since beating Namibia in December 2023 during the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifiers.

The French-based midfielder netted from a Princess Marfo left-footed cross to hand the Black Queens their first win under the new boss.

Bjorkegren made two changes to the team that started the game against Morocco during the last international break.

Germany-based Josephine Bonsu was handed her first starting berth alongside Badu.

The Queens threatened in the opening minutes of the game but couldn’t find a way past the opposition’s defence.

However, in the 35th minute, Princess made a daunting run down the left flank before finding Badu with a cross, the latter making no mistake from close range as she headed home the opening goal.

Ghana came back from recess looking to double their lead but were reduced to 10 as Anasthesia Achiaa was sent off after picking up a second yellow card.

The two teams will face off again on April 8 before the end of the international window.

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Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, has dismissed claims that he has been invited to assist in investigations concerning the alleged influx of suspicious drugs and cash into the country.

Fordjour described such claims as baseless and entirely false.

Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Saturday, April 5, the MP firmly rejected assertions made by Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu that an invitation had been extended to him.

“No invitation has come to me. I have not received any invitation whatsoever contrary to the lies and falsehood peddled by Kwakye Ofosu that I had been invited and I am running away from collaboration. It is false,” he stated.

Fordjour reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability, describing the accusations as deliberate attempts to mislead the public.

His comments come at a time of mounting scrutiny over the allegations, with growing calls for clarity and an independent investigation into the matter.

Read also…

Talensi NDC office set ablaze over DCE nomination

South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille

South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, has said, the number of Ghanaian tourists visiting her country has surged by 149 percent since the introduction of a visa waiver in November 2023.

Speaking in Accra on March 27, 2025, as part of an outreach program to strengthen tourism ties between the two nations, she described the increase as clear evidence of the success of their partnership.

“The numbers tell a powerful story. From January to December 2024, visitor numbers from Ghana to South Africa grew by an impressive 149 percent compared to the same period in 2023. This is a clear sign that our collaboration is bearing fruit, and we are here to build on that momentum,” she stated.

She credited this growth to the elimination of travel restrictions, improved air connectivity, and the dedication of tourism stakeholders in both countries.

The minister emphasised that beyond the rising figures, the partnership between them is creating economic opportunities and strengthening cultural ties.

“This visit is more than just a formal engagement- it is a reaffirmation of South Africa’s commitment to deepening ties with Ghana, particularly in the tourism sector, which holds immense potential for economic growth, cultural exchange, and shared prosperity,” she said.

Also, she highlighted that easier access to her country has not only encouraged tourism but also facilitated business engagements and family reunions. She positioned it as an ideal destination for corporate events, citing its advanced infrastructure, modern conference facilities, and scenic locations.

“South Africa offers world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge conference facilities, and unique venues set against breathtaking landscapes- making it the ideal location for hosting business events,” she noted.

Addressing safety concerns, she reassured Ghanaian travelers that her country’s government is working diligently to enhance security measures and ensure a safe and welcoming experience for all visitors.

Furthermore, she extended an invitation to Ghanaian travel operators and industry players to attend Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban from May 12 to 15, 2025. The event, she explained, provides a platform to promote Africa’s tourism potential and strengthen industry collaborations.

Moreover, the minister reaffirmed Ghana’s importance to her country and stressed the broader significance of their partnership. “This is more than tourism- it is about partnership, collaboration, and economic growth. South Africa is open for business, and we are ready to welcome Ghanaian travelers to journey with us,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ms. Dzifa Abla Gomashie, in a speech read on her behalf, said the visit by Minister de Lille was an important step in deepening cooperation between the two countries.

She noted that both nations share a strong historical and cultural connection, which should be leveraged to enhance tourism and create mutually beneficial opportunities.

“This meeting serves as a crucial step in leveraging our shared history, vibrant cultures, and deep connection to enhance our tourism sectors and promote mutually beneficial relationships,” she stated.

She added that, the increase in arrivals demonstrate the growing interest in South Africa as a preferred destination for Ghanaian travelers.

However, she posed an important question: “How can we encourage South African tourists to visit our country and adopt it as their second home?”

To address this, she said strategic steps must be taken to promote the country as an attractive destination for South African travelers. These include joint destination marketing campaigns, curated travel packages tailored to South African tourists, and streamlining visa processes to encourage easier travel.

She also highlighted the need for improved flight connectivity and enhanced cultural exchanges through festivals, music, and art events.

Minister de Lille echoed these sentiments, in a post-event media engagement, emphasising that her country is not only a top destination for leisure but also for business and corporate events.

“South Africa offers world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge conference facilities, and unique venues set against breathtaking landscapes- making it the ideal location for hosting business events,” she noted.

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Ghana’s Abdul-Rasheed Saminu run a wind aided 9.87 seconds in the 100 meter dash in his first outdoor race of the season. 

The University of South Florida athlete, enjoyed a stellar indoor campaign, clocking an impressive 6.53 seconds in the 60m and earned his third First Team All-American honor. 

Saminu outclassed the competition, finishing a whopping 0.16 seconds ahead of the nearest challenger.

His feat would’ve gone down as a new national 100m record, but for the illegal tailwind of up to +2.2 meters per second. 

Saminu, who represented Ghana at the Paris Olympics, reaching the men’s 100m semifinals, will be hoping to book his spot at the World Championships scheduled for September, later this year, in Tokyo. 

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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.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (6th from left) with other Ghanaian and Nigerian diplomats

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Foreign Minister, has begun his three-day working visit to Nigeria.

He was warmly received at the Nigerian Foreign Ministry by Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Foreign Minister of Nigeria.

Ablakwa, in a statement, said their discussions focused on follow-up actions required on the vexed Alliance of Sahel States/Economic Community of West African States (AES/ECOWAS) matter after President John Dramani Mahama’s recent shuttle diplomacy to Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, and his subsequent engagement with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria.

“We further deliberated on enhanced trade and job creation within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, Pan-African priority projects such as the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline Project, the 1,028km Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Highway, which aims to connect Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria,” he said.

“Our meeting also considered preparations for the ECOWAS@50 commemoration, which will be launched in Ghana later this month by President Mahama.”

Ablakwa said they deeply cherish the outstanding relations between Ghana and Nigeria.

A former Miss Ghana and experienced finance professional, Sheila Azuntaba has been appointed as the new Deputy Managing Director of Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), marking a new chapter in her career and setting a strong example of leadership built on purpose and determination.

Her appointment, effective March 26, 2025, was announced alongside that of Naomi Wolali Kwetey, who has been nominated by President John Dramani Mahama to serve as Acting Managing Director of CBG. 

The nominations were confirmed in a letter signed by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, addressed to the Board Chairman of the bank.

“You [Board] are required to regularize the appointments in compliance with the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992) and the Bank’s Constitution,” the letter stated.

Taking to Instagram to express her gratitude and excitement, Azuntaba posted:

“A New Dawn at CBG!
First and foremost, I give all glory to God Almighty for this incredible opportunity. He truly does all things in His own time and on His own terms. This is a divine reminder that His plans are always perfect, and His timing is unmatched.
Congratulations to @dr.naomi_kwetey, our new Managing Director of Consolidated Bank Ghana! It is with immense pride and joy that I celebrate this groundbreaking moment — not just for our institution, but for women everywhere who continue to rise, take up space, and shatter glass ceilings.
As your deputy, I pledge my unwavering support, loyalty, and commitment to your vision and leadership. I will show up — always — with excellence, purpose, and strength, ready to serve and drive our collective mission forward.
I am deeply grateful to H.E. @officialidmahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, for the honor of being nominated as Deputy Managing Director of Consolidated Bank Ghana. I do not take this responsibility lightly, and I pledge to serve with integrity, excellence, and a heart for impact.
I also extend my sincere appreciation to H.E. Professor @njoagyemang, Vice President of the Republic. Thank you for blazing the trail and being an extraordinary example of what women in leadership can achieve. You continue to inspire a generation of women to dream, to lead, and to rise with confidence and purpose.”

With more than 20 years of experience in the banking and finance sector, Sheila Azuntaba brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role. She has worked across Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria, and notably served as Assistant Vice President at Citigroup’s Global Transaction Services Unit in Nigeria, where she was involved in product development, marketing, and sales strategies.

Aside from her corporate roles, Azuntaba is well-known for promoting financial support for women. As the founder and CEO of Innovative Microfinance Ltd, she has helped improve the lives of over 100,000 people in Ghana’s Northern Region, offering small loans and financial education to women and families in need.

“The North is like a breadbasket of Ghana,” Azuntaba explained in an earlier interview with thosewhoinspire.com. “You go to the North, and you see a woman, and she’s got four or five kids to feed, and a lot of times they don’t even sleep. So when you see that, the best thing you could do is give her that extra push.”

Her public journey began in 1996 when she became the first woman from the northern part of the country to win the Miss Ghana crown. She credits her mother’s influence in shaping her character. “She always wanted her kids to be very independent, very strong, and very focused — those were the values she passed on to us.”

Azuntaba holds a BA (Hons) in Marketing from the University of Westminster in London and an MBA in Finance from Strathclyde Business School in Glasgow, Scotland.

At CBG — a government-owned universal bank licensed by the Bank of Ghana — she is expected to help improve the bank’s operations and long-term development. 

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Sports News

Apr – 05 – 2025 , 11:23

2 minutes read

The rescue service said the Israeli military attacked an ambulance and a fire engine in the southern Gaza city of Rafah on March 23. The bodies of 14 of the men were recovered from a mass grave seven days later.

The Israeli military said at the time that its forces had opened fire on several vehicles after they approached troops in a suspicious manner, without coordination or headlights. Israeli officials said the soldiers had killed members of the Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad groups.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said on Saturday that it had retrieved a mobile phone from one of the killed paramedics, which held video material of the rescue squad.

The video, shared by the rescue service on X, shows clearly marked ambulances and a fire engine driving with their headlights and blue emergency lights switched on.

The video recording stops after less than a minute when the convoy comes under Israeli fire. However, the audio recording continues for several minutes and includes prayers spoken by the attackers as well as unintelligible shouts of command in Hebrew by the Israeli soldiers.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said the unarmed rescue workers were shot at close range, contrary to the Israeli account that soldiers fired at approaching suspicious vehicles.

“This video unequivocally refutes the occupation’s claims that Israeli forces did not randomly target ambulances, and that some vehicles had approached ‘suspiciously without lights or emergency markings,’” the rescue service wrote on X.

An Israeli military spokesman told the Times of Israel newspaper that the incident would be thoroughly investigated, including the video and audio material.

GNA

PDC

The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has called on stakeholders in the Upper East Region to intensify vigilance and surveillance efforts against Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM), amid ongoing health concerns in northern Ghana.

Addressing the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council during a working visit to the region, Professor Akoriyea stressed the importance of public education on the symptoms and preventive measures of meningitis to ensure early detection and treatment.

His call comes in the wake of confirmed cases earlier this year in the Upper West Region, where 16 lives were lost out of 173 suspected cases. In the Upper East Region, two deaths have been recorded from 31 suspected cases, although the region has yet to declare an official outbreak.

“Though the situation appears to be under control, we cannot be complacent. Stakeholders, particularly in the Upper West and Upper East Regions, must remain on high alert to prevent further spread.” Professor Akoriyea cautioned.

He expressed concern over the public’s reluctance to seek early medical attention when symptoms appear but assured that the Ghana Health Service had procured sufficient vaccines to respond swiftly to any potential outbreak.

The Director-General also emphasized the need for heightened surveillance at Ghana’s borders, noting that the proximity to Sahelian countries poses a continuous risk of cross-border infections.

In addition to health concerns, Professor Akoriyea drew attention to the acute shortage of health workers in the region. He attributed the challenge to insecurity in conflict-prone areas such as Bawku, which discourages health professionals from accepting postings.

“Without peace, health indicators will not improve,” he stressed, highlighting that safety fears undermine healthcare delivery in the region.

He further criticized external interference in staff postings and transfers, urging local authorities to support the equitable distribution of healthcare workers across all districts.

Responding on behalf of the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Acting Regional Coordinating Director, Al-Hassan Ibrahim Abdul-Kadir, acknowledged the concerns raised and assured that the Regional Minister would work to address them. He added that collaborative efforts with the Ghana Medical Association were underway to improve the security and working environment for health professionals in the region.

Sammy Gyamfi is the Acting Managing Director of the PMMC

The Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), Sammy Gyamfi, has addressed concerns regarding the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) having excessive power under the current administration.

Speaking on News File on Saturday, April 5, 2025, and monitored by GhanaWeb Business, Sammy Gyamfi said that GoldBod’s exclusive role as the sole commercial buyer of gold in the country leaves no room for competition in the sector.

According to him, the mandate given to GoldBod is clear, as it is tasked with the buying and exporting of gold, which he believes eliminates any potential for a conflict of interest in its operations.

“You said GoldBod has been given too much power in regulation and commerce, but it’s not necessarily so. GoldBod has no competitor in the market in its core mandate of trading gold, specifically buying and exporting gold. So where would the conflict of interest arise?” he explained.

Gyamfi further clarified that the regulatory power entrusted to GoldBod is intended to help manage and regulate licensed gold-buying agents on behalf of the government.

He added that the regulatory function is designed to ensure transparency and proper oversight in the gold trade.

“GoldBod has licensed agents buying and selling on its behalf with funds given to the agents to work for them. These are provisions we put in our laws to enhance alternative dispute resolution. It’s not a matter of giving too much power to an agency,” he clarified.

The Ghana Gold Board is a state-owned institution mandated to regulate and promote the development of the gold industry in the country.

SP/MA

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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has fired one of his deputies for taking a “lavish” trip to Antarctica with his wife during Nowruz, the Persian new year.

The president’s office described Shahram Dabiri’s trip as “unjustifiable and unacceptable given the ongoing economic challenges” in Iran.

A picture of Dabiri and his wife posing in front of MV Plancius, which was bound for the South Pole, circulated widely on social media and caused outrage in Iran.

In a statement on Saturday, Pezeshkian said Dabari had been removed as vice president of parliamentary affairs for “indefensible” actions, regardless of whether they were financed from his own pocket.

“In a government that seeks to follow the values of the first Shia Imam (Imam Ali), and amid significant economic pressures on our people, the lavish travels of government officials, even when personally financed, are indefensible,” Pezeshkian said.

Iran’s economy is under significant strain and subject to Western sanctions due in part to its support of groups including Hamas and Hezbollah, which have been proscribed terrorist organisations by the US, UK and the EU.

Iran’s unemployment rate as of October 2024 was 8.4%, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), while its annual inflation rate was 29.5%.

Pezeshkian said Dabiri’s actions “starkly contradict the principle of simplicity that is paramount for those in positions of authority”.

The Antarctica expedition on the MV Plancius reportedly has a starting cost equivalent to $6,685 (£5,187).

Usually, visits to the coldest and least populated continent in the world are carried out by scientists and seasoned explorers.

However, tourism voyages on cruises have surged in popularity in recent years. The Dutch vessel pictured in the picture of Dabiri, for example, was used by the Royal Netherlands Navy for military and civilian research between 1976 and 2004.

It is not clear what expedition package Dabiri chose or what mode of transport he took from Iran to Antarctica.

On one of the many package deals available online, explorers need to embark and disembark from Ushuaia, one of the southernmost points of Argentina. The town is about 3,079km (1,913 miles) from Buenos Aires, the Argentinian capital.

The Iranian president was elected last year with a promise to revive the economy and improve Iranians’ daily lives. He replaced Ebrahim Raisi, who was killed in a helicopter crash.

Iranian media reported that many of Pezeshkian’s supporters urged him to remove Dabiri from post as the public grew disgruntled over the trip.

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Sceenshots of the contents of the containers intercepted by National Security

The Director in Charge of Special Operations at National Security, Richard Jakpa, has revealed details about a massive stash of counterfeit US dollars, Ghanaian cedi notes, and suspected gold bars hidden in 12 shipping containers intercepted at a warehouse in Sapeiman, Accra.

Speaking in a video shared by Accra-based Radio Gold, the National Security Director stated that the containers had not yet been fully opened, as investigations are still ongoing to identify the individuals responsible for the items.

He disclosed that the boxes found inside the containers are the same type used by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to import cash into the country, raising concerns about how such boxes, allegedly belonging to the central bank, ended up in the possession of private individuals.

“These are all Bank of Ghana boxes. This is what they use to import our currency… We want the kingpins themselves to be present before we open them. That’s why the area is under 24-hour surveillance, and we’re working to track down those responsible,” he said while pointing to the contents of one of the containers.

Another container he opened revealed more of what he described as “Bank of Ghana” boxes.

He reiterated, “Until I get the kingpin, I cannot open them.”

Jakpa also indicated that the agency has gathered evidence linking some suspects to the warehouse in question.

Background:

National Security officers recently intercepted a massive stash of counterfeit US dollars, Ghanaian cedi notes, and suspected gold bars hidden in 12 shipping containers at a warehouse in Sapeiman, Accra.

According to multiple reports on X, two of the containers are still missing, and a manhunt has been launched for suspects, including a ringleader known only as “Alhaji.”

The containers were traced to a warehouse in the Ga South Municipality, where a late-night special operation was carried out following a tip-off.

The counterfeit currencies, primarily bundles of US dollars, were discovered concealed in wooden boxes covered with cement. Additional fake notes were also found in boxes sealed with plywood and layered with charcoal.

In addition to the counterfeit cash, boxes containing metal bars suspected to be gold, along with fake Ghana Army uniforms and boots, were also discovered.

Two of the containers remain unaccounted for and are currently being actively tracked by National Security operatives.

Watch the Radio Gold video plus other videos of the incident below:

Investigative agencies are intensifying their efforts to track down the elusive ringleader behind the recent counterfeiting operations uncovered at Sapeiman in the Greater Accra region-Richard Jakpa (Director in charge of special operations at National Security) pic.twitter.com/NSfDJm5oF1

— Popo🇰🇼🇬🇭 (@Popony_J) April 5, 2025

The Director of Special Operations at the National Security, Richard Jakpa has given a closeup inspection of some of the confiscated counterfeit currencies, which were discovered at a Warehouse in Amasaman, as rigorous investigations continue into identifying and arresting the… pic.twitter.com/51En7oZn9j

— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) April 5, 2025

The Director of Special Operations at the National Security, Richard Jakpa has given a closeup inspection of some of the confiscated counterfeit currencies, which were discovered at a Warehouse in Amasaman, as rigorous investigations continue into identifying and arresting the… pic.twitter.com/51En7oZn9j

— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) April 5, 2025

BAI/MA

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Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali is Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority

Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), has engaged stakeholders in the fishery sector on enhancing maritime safety, sustainable fishing practices, and combating illegal activities at sea.

The meeting was held to strengthen collaboration between the GMA and the National Fisheries Association of Ghana (NAFAG).

It was also to address concerns affecting Ghana’s maritime sector, particularly the incursion of oil and gas protection zones, piracy, maritime security of vessels at sea and conditions of seafarers.

It became known during the engagement that the number of canoe incursions at the oil and gas zones rose to 78 in 2024 compared to 27 recorded in 2023.

Dr. Ali expressed concern over the rising number of canoes trespassing into restricted oil and gas protection zones at sea, describing the development as a serious threat to national safety and maritime security.

He noted that despite ongoing efforts to regulate Ghana’s maritime domain, the unlawful presence of canoes within the zones continues to pose significant risks to both the fishing community and the country’s offshore oil operations.

He said although the GMA acknowledges some challenges of artisanal fishers, the safety of Ghana’s maritime space must not be compromised, adding that unauthorised presence does endanger lives and threatens the integrity of key national assets.

“One incursion is important, ten important, 20 is scary, and 50 or 70 is at an unacceptable level in terms of the industry standards. In fact, if these were happening in any developed country, they would have declared it a national crisis,” he stated.

Touching on piracy, he underscored the grave threat it poses to maritime safety and national security, emphasising that the increasing incidents of piracy do not only endanger the lives of seafarers but also disrupt essential maritime trade routes and exert a negative impact on the national economy.

According to him, the menace of piracy imposes substantial financial burdens on shipping companies, saying that the appropriate stakeholders would be engaged to strengthen the maritime surveillance systems and heightened vigilance across the country’s territorial waters.

He mentioned that there would soon be a formal engagement aimed at addressing and improving the conditions of service for seafarers, acknowledging the essential role maritime workers play in sustaining the shipping industry.

Nana Jojo Solomon, President of NAFAG, thanked the Director-General for initiating the dialogue and acknowledged that incidents of canoe incursions were indeed a growing concern, giving the assurance of their readiness to cooperate fully with the GMA in addressing these issues.

Solomon noted that many of the canoe operators were not fully aware of the locations of these oil and gas zones or the risks involved in entering them and thus appealed for educational outreach programmes to ensure that NAFAG members were better informed.

He added that NAFAG was committed to promoting safe fishing practices and would work with all stakeholders to reduce activities that posed a threat to the maritime space.

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The Managing Director of TDC Ghana Limited, Courage Kafui Nunekpeku, has asked the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to investigate some of the company’s past activities.

Mr. Nunekpeku announced this when he was briefing staff on the state of the TDC during a staff durbar, indicating that he had done extensive assessments in all the company’s departments and realised that “there were issues everywhere.”

“In the coming days, there are going to be a lot of investigations. This morning, I wrote two letters to EOCO to come and look into something at the IT department. IT contracts were awarded for one million dollars, and we don’t have access to that software, so EOCO will intervene in it,” he said.

He added he had also written another letter to EOCO to look into another issue which he wanted to remain discrete about.

He noted that the company would also embark on a lot of property and land audits to confirm initial findings on TDC’s lands.

The MD urged staff of the company who might have some information or are involved in some underhand dealings in the past years to voluntarily approach him with the needed information instead of waiting to be found out.

Mr. Nunepkeku cautioned that “if you don’t come, and we do investigations and find out, I won’t accept any pleas, whether you were a polling agent or have worked in the company for years, because you have been given the opportunity today.”

He further announced that the company would not purchase new vehicles for management staff but would rather buy Urvan buses, a backhoe, a dumper, and a tipper truck, as those were more helpful in the enhancement of TDC.

He called on all staff to cooperate with management in turning the fortunes of the TDC, reminding them that private estate companies are making it; therefore, TDC, with its huge assets and the backing of the state, could be turned into a world-class company.

“There is no way we are going to do this if we are not into it and being intentional about it. We need all of your support to move as a team. It’s not about how much money you want to make; if it’s about that we can make good money in the private sector, but per the instructions we received from the President, TDC should be fixed; if not, the likes of TMA and State Housing Corporation would absorb it,” he stressed.

The MD cautioned that the days of corruption, falsification of invoices, and fraudulent presentation of invoices, among others, must cease, encouraging all staff to be vigilant and to probe things.

He said: “For the few weeks that I have been in office, some of the things I have seen will blow your mind. Because I come from the private sector, I scrutinise everything. You have to scrutinise the invoice before even forwarding it for approval.”

Mr. Nunekpeku urged all the staff  to be responsible citizens by protecting the assets of the company and the purse of the country.

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Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus has finally ended his lengthy drought without a Premier League goal involvement, registering a crucial assist in West Ham United’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth at the London Stadium.

This assist marks a significant confidence boost for the 24-year-old, who has struggled to replicate his impressive debut season form.

Kudus, who joined West Ham from Ajax last summer, had gone 13 consecutive matches without a goal or assist, raising concerns about his attacking output.

However, he silenced his critics with a clever play, setting up Jarrod Bowen’s 68th-minute goal.

The former Ajax midfielder breezed past his marker and holds him off before delivering a decent cross to set up Jarred Bowen who calmly slotted it in.

This assist marks his first Premier League goal contribution since December 21, 2024 where he scored in the 1-1 draw against Brighton.

The Ghana international’s recent form had been under scrutiny, with questions surrounding his ability to make a direct impact on games.

However, his latest assist could be the confidence boost he needs as West Ham continues their push for European qualification.

Kudus’ recent performances for the Black Stars, where he scored his first goal since January 18, 2024, in Ghana’s 3-0 thrashing of Madagascar, seem to have given him a much-needed confidence boost.

His ability to make a direct impact on games has been a hallmark of his career, and this latest assist could be a sign that he is returning to his best form.

West Ham’s draw with Bournemouth means the Hammers  confirm their stay in the topflight despite early struggles in the league.

With several matches remaining, the Hammers will be looking to secure as many points as possible to guarantee a top-10 finish.

Kudus’ latest assist could be a crucial factor in their push for European qualification.

West Ham’s next match is against league leaders, Liverpool at Anfield which could be a crucial test for the 2023 Conference League winners.

Alhaji Ishaq Dauda has assumed office as MD of Prestea Sankofa Gold Limited

Alhaji Ishaq Dauda, the new Managing Director (MD) of Prestea Sankofa Gold Limited, has pledged his commitment to put in place appropriate measures to ensure the organisation thrives and contributes to sustainable growth.

He said upon assumption of office; he had been working around the clock to resolve some problems to help enhance administrative and operational effectiveness and improve efficiency.

He was speaking to journalists when he paid a courtesy call on Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, at his office in Sekondi.

The meeting was to formally introduce himself to the Regional Minister as the new MD of Prestea Sankofa Gold Limited and seek the Minister’s support to ensure the growth of the organisation.

Alhaji Dauda said, “When we assumed office, there were some issues regarding the plant that was shut down, and some salary arrears of staff, but we are taking appropriate steps to resolve them.”

He stated that his vision was to make the company a thriving entity that would create employment opportunities for the people, while contributing its quota to national development.

“My vision and focus are to make Prestea Sankofa Gold Limited a better place than we came to meet, and I am determined to ensure that we achieve this aim,” the MD added.

The Western Regional Minister, for his part, congratulated Alhaji Dauda on his appointment as the MD Prestea Sankofa Gold Limited and asked him to discharge his duties with determination and hard work.

Nelson expressed confidence in his ability to resolve all challenges the company was currently facing, saying; “I am confident that you are going to bring some freshness to the company, and turn things around for growth.”

He also expressed his unwavering support for the MD to put in place appropriate strategies to ensure the growth of the company to benefit both the local people and the country in general.

The MD was accompanied by some senior management staff including; John Baptist Bartie, Geological Mining and Exploration Manager, Francis Adarkwa Yiadom, Health Safety and Environment Manager, Samuel Ayamba, Head of Human Resource, and Peter Kofi Ewoniah, Public Relations Officer.

The initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about the profound benefits of physical activity

The Ghana NCD Alliance (GhNCDA) and the Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development (VAST-Ghana) have called for adequate investment in physical activities to prevent noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among the people.

This was in a solidarity message read by Labram Musah, the National Coordinator of GhNCDA, and the Executive Director of VAST-Ghana as they joined the Ministry of Health to commemorate the World Physical Day 2025 in Accra on Thursday.

This year’s Day was on the theme: “Have a Good Time! Be Active!” which emphasised the importance of physical activity to life.

The initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about the profound benefits of physical activity and to mobilise efforts to promote healthier lifestyles.

The event was jointly organised by the Ministry of Health and The New You (TNYOU) Fitness with the launch of “Ghana Walk 2025” as part of their 10th anniversary on the theme, “Active today, healthy tomorrow: Empowering Ghanaians through physical activity.”

Musah said, “Today’s event is directly connected to one of President Mahama’s commitment to a healthier Ghana by initiating the National Recreation Day.

“We believe it will encourage more keep-fit activities and promote active lifestyles, increase school level physical education, promote traditional games, and strengthen community bond.

“However, for this initiative to be impactful, it must be effectively implemented and sustained beyond political cycles with adequate investment.”

He encouraged organisations to integrate physical activity into their daily routine not only to enhance their physical health but also boost their mental wellbeing, reduce stress, and foster social connections and alertness.

“In addition to this, the staff should go for regular screening of blood pressure and diabetes test. This will help them from frequenting the hospital with sicknesses,” Musah stated.

He said the collaboration between the Ministry of Health and The New You (TNYOU) Fitness exemplifies the power of partnerships in advancing public health initiatives.

“By working together, we can create environments that encourage active living, making physical activity accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable for all,” he pointed out.

“As we mark World Physical Activity Day 2025, let us remember that being active is not just a personal choice but a collective responsibility. Let us embrace the joy of movement, support one another in our wellness journeys, and build a healthier Ghana for current and future generations,” Musah said.

Professor Emeritus Reginald Ocansey, Physical Activity and Sport Researcher at the University of Ghana, called on stakeholders to champion the cause of physical activity by spreading the message that movement is medicine and powerful in preventing diseases.

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Freeman Koryekpor Awlesu

Apr – 05 – 2025 , 16:38

2 minutes read