Ghana’s former Auditor-General, Daniel Domelevo, has delivered a critique of the nation’s anti-corruption efforts, alleging that the fight is being deliberately undermined by a judiciary susceptible to political and financial manipulation.

Mr Domelevo did not spare the legal fraternity, claiming that highly resourceful corruption suspects are employing powerful lawyers and ‘procuring’ judges to ensure indefinite delays until a favourable change of government facilitates the collapse of their cases.

Speaking on TV3 on October 25, the respected anti-corruption crusader insisted that unless the judicial system undergoes radical and urgent reform, the retrieval of stolen state funds will remain impossible.

Mr Domelevo laid bare the alleged strategy used by politically connected individuals accused of high-level corruption.

The goal, he contends, is not to win the case on merit but to stretch the proceedings across electoral cycles, exploiting Ghana’s partisan political system.

“They can even procure judges. A judge may say, ‘What I can do is to keep adjourning until your party comes to power; then the case will be thrown out,’” he alleged.

He argued that these deliberate, drawn-out judicial delays serve as a protective shield for the accused, effectively denying justice and preventing the state from recovering vital public funds.

“The money is still in someone’s pocket and not in use. Justice delayed is justice denied,” he said, urging Parliament to treat the necessary judicial reforms as a certificate-of-urgency matter.

To combat the deliberate dragging of feet in court proceedings, the former Auditor-General proposed radical reforms to expedite the prosecution of corruption cases.

1. Time Limit and Penalties: Domelevo proposed a strict time frame for the completion of corruption cases, regardless of their complexity, arguing that judges who fail to meet this standard should face severe sanctions.

He proposed a maximum of 9 to 12 months for corruption cases, with penalties for judges who exceed that period without justifiable reason.

He believes judges who stretch cases beyond a year should face misconduct proceedings, holding them personally accountable for procedural delays.

2. A 24-Hour Justice System: To handle the increased workload and clear the corruption case backlog efficiently, Domelevo called for the immediate operationalization of a 24-hour justice system.

“We all don’t have to go to court at 9 a.m. and close by 3 p.m. A 24-hour economy should start in the Judiciary too,” he said.

He noted the recent influx of new lawyers—over 800 were recently called to the Bar—suggesting that they could be recruited as part-time judges to hear cases in the evenings, ensuring continuous judicial activity and eliminating bottlenecks.

His core argument remains that Ghana will not defeat corruption until the justice system itself is fundamentally reformed and made impermeable to influence.

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The recent Ivorian presidential election saw significantly poor participation among the diaspora community in Ghana, with a staggering 88.55% voter apathy recorded.

Out of a total of 1,432 registered Ivorian voters expected to cast their ballots at five designated centres across Ghana, only 164 individuals actually turned up to vote.

The election was conducted across four polling stations in Accra and one additional centre in Kumasi.

The extremely low turnout of just 164 votes disappointed agents of the various presidential candidates, who had anticipated higher participation from the large Ivorian community in Ghana.

Polling agents largely attributed the disappointing figures to the absence of many registered voters, most of whom are believed to be tertiary students who had returned to Côte d’Ivoire for vacation.

The vote counting process faced a brief delay after returning officers cross-checked the number of physical ballots cast against the verified voters’ list. A procedural hitch emerged:

It was discovered that the number of ballots cast exceeded the number of verified voters, delaying the collation process.

After intense deliberation involving candidate agents and election officials, an agreement was reached to ensure the integrity of the count. Ultimately, four disputed ballot papers were excluded from the final tally to maintain fairness.

The election in Ghana was officially supervised by the diplomatic representative of the Ivorian Electoral Commission, operating as a subsidiary of Côte d’Ivoire’s national election management body.

When the results from the five polling stations were finally tallied and validated, incumbent President Alassane Ouattara secured a decisive lead among the Ivorian diaspora voters in Ghana.

The high proportion of 41 blank ballots, representing 25% of the total votes cast, is a notable feature of the results, potentially reflecting a protest vote or political disengagement among a significant segment of the participating voters.

The transmitted results have been sent electronically to Abidjan and will undergo manual verification as part of the final national tally, raising questions about the extent of civic participation and political engagement among the Ivorian community residing outside the home country.

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The government’s ambitious push to sanitise Ghana’s small-scale mining sector is gaining momentum, with the Responsible Cooperative Mining Skills and Development Programme (RCOMSDEP) holding a key engagement in Atronsu Bibiani.

The initiative, championed by President John Dramani Mahama and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, seeks to revolutionise mining by replacing unregulated operations with a regulated, environmentally friendly, and community-centred cooperative system.

A high-powered RCOMSDEP delegation met with local miners, chiefs, and traditional leaders in Atronsu to outline the national vision for sustainable and inclusive mining practices.

The RCOMSDEP team, led by George Dadzie, Deputy National Coordinator for Operations, alongside Kwadwo Debrah (Head of Mining), Owusu Bempah (Head of Technical), and John Afful (Head of Communications), educated local miners on the transition from illicit methods to legal cooperative mining.

The officials stressed that the government is committed to facilitating this transformation through concrete support measures, aiming to uplift the skills and capacity of small-scale miners.

The team explained that the government is committed to providing training, resources, and technical support to help miners operate within legal and sustainable frameworks.

This support is intended to ensure that miners can employ efficient, modern techniques that minimise environmental degradation, which has historically plagued Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.

During the interactive session, the local miners shared significant structural hurdles they face, primarily relating to land ownership and resource allocation. They argued that the existing system often marginalises them despite their local knowledge and labour investment.

The miners voiced their concerns about limited access to concessions, noting that large-scale companies control most of the land.

The RCOMSDEP delegation assured the miners that the new cooperative structure is specifically designed to address these inequities, promising steps to ensure fair opportunities for all miners who are willing to operate within the legal cooperative framework.

In a major boost for the programme’s legitimacy and community integration, the RCOMSDEP delegation paid a courtesy call on the Chiefs and traditional leaders of Atronsu.

The meeting focused on forging a strong partnership to ensure local buy-in and collaboration in achieving the goals of responsible mining.

The Chiefs expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasising that it aligns with their desire to see mining activities contribute positively to local development and environmental preservation.

The traditional authorities offered high praise for the President and the sector Minister for devising a model that prioritises community welfare:

The chiefs commended President Mahama and Minister Armah Buah for introducing a programme that focuses on empowerment, cooperation, and sustainability within the mining sector.

The RCOMSDEP continues its nationwide outreach, determined to build strategic partnerships with communities and stakeholders across Ghana’s resource-rich regions to advance the vision of responsible mining for national growth and prosperity.

“The Responsible Cooperative Mining Skills and Development Programme continues to extend its outreach across the regions of Ghana, building partnerships with communities and stakeholders to advance the vision of responsible mining for national growth and prosperity,” said Mr. John Afful, Head of Communications, Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme.

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Winless Western player before the match

Two sides eager to turn their fortunes around, Western Region and Upper West Region, will go head-to-head on Matchday Three of the MTN Elite U19 Championship on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.

Both teams are still without a win after two group-stage matches and will be determined to secure their first three points of the campaign in Sunday’s opening fixture.

The match promises to be a tightly contested affair, as each side looks to bounce back and reignite their hopes of progressing in the competition.

Later in the day, attention will turn to a thrilling Group A showdown as Brong Ahafo face a stern test against group leaders Eastern Region in what is expected to be one of the highlights of the round.

Brong Ahafo, fresh from their emphatic 5–0 win over Northern Region, will be aiming to build on that momentum, while Eastern will look to protect their perfect record and maintain top spot.

The final fixture of the day will see Central Region go in search of their first win of the tournament as they take on Volta Region, who head into the tie full of confidence following their narrow victory over Upper East on Saturday.

Running from October 23 to November 2, 2025, the MTN Elite U19 Championship brings together ten Regional Football Association (RFA) U-19 teams from across Ghana.

The competition continues to provide an invaluable platform for the nation’s most promising young footballers to showcase their abilities, gain competitive experience, and attract the attention of national youth team coaches and professional scouts.

Powered by MTN Ghana, the tournament underscores the Football Association’s unwavering commitment to youth football development, offering a clear and structured pathway for emerging talents to progress from grassroots football to the national and professional stages.

File photo of women in agriculture

Stakeholders in the agricultural sector have appealed to government to invest and mainstream agroecology into national and sub-national agricultural development strategies to promote sustainable food production and environmental protection in Ghana.

The appeal was made in a communiqué issued at the end of a two-day engagement held in Bolgatanga in Upper East Region.

The engagement formed part of the Agroecological Solutions for Resilient Farming in West Africa (CIRAWA) project, an EU-funded initiative being implemented in Ghana, Cape Verde, Senegal, and The Gambia to promote sustainable agricultural systems.

The CIRAWA project aims to build resilient farming systems through agroecology by combining indigenous knowledge and scientific innovation to ensure food security, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change impacts in West Africa.

In Ghana, the project is being implemented in the Nabdam District in the Upper East Region and Central Gonja District in the Savannah Region.

The stakeholders at the engagement included the University for Development Studies (UDS) CIRAWA team, Regional Directors of Agriculture for the Savannah and Upper East Regions, District Directors of Agriculture from Central Gonja and Nabdam Districts, and agricultural extension personnel.

The stakeholders observed that about 80 to 90 per cent of food produced and consumed in northern Ghana came from smallholder farmers who already relied largely on agroecological practices, yet there was no national policy framework or dedicated government support to promote agroecology.

Professor Saa Dittoh, the Lead Investigator of the CIRAWA-Ghana, who presented the communique on behalf of the stakeholders, urged government to take bold steps to support agroecology, describing it as a proven pathway for resilient and climate-friendly agriculture.

“There should be strong governmental support and investments towards mainstreaming agroecology into national and sub-national agricultural development strategies. Agroecology should feature prominently in the Feed Ghana programme,” he said.

Professor Dittoh further recommended that Ghana developed a National Agroecology Strategy (NAS), and urged the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to integrate agroecology promotion into their medium-term development plans.

He said: “Agroecology integrates farmers’ indigenous knowledge with responsible scientific knowledge to ensure sustainable production of wholesome, nutritious, and safe food while mitigating the negative effects of climate change and environmental degradation.”

Professor Dittoh argued that the prevailing conventional agricultural system, heavily supported by government and some development partners, had been detrimental to planetary, animal and human health due to its overreliance on agrochemicals, mono-cropping, and unsustainable mechanisation practices.

“The alternative to the challenges farmers face is not conventional agriculture,” he said, explaining that the current system worsened food and nutrition insecurity, increased poverty, and contributed to environmental degradation.

“We need to build capacity of agricultural extension officers to retool them with knowledge on agroecological practices,” he added.

He underscored the need to promote local production of farm inputs such as soil amendments, indigenous seeds, bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides through collaborative research between scientists, farmers, and local knowledge bearers.

Professor Dittoh urged government to support innovation in the production of simple mechanised tools to reduce the drudgery associated with smallholder farming, and to strengthen farmer-based organisations through targeted training and funding.

He further called for a ban on the importation and production of dangerous agrochemicals, as well as stronger collaboration among researchers, extension personnel and farmers to scale up agroecological practices across the country.

Professor Dittoh also called on the MMDAs to be proactive in enacting and enforcing by-laws on animal ranching, transhumance, bush burning and illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) to protect the environment and secure livelihoods.

Dr Dzigbodi Adzo Doke, Co-Investigator, CIRAWA-UDS, said agroecology employed indigenous knowledge and seeds, which was easy to adopt, and it was climate resilient and urged for increased efforts to ensure sustainable food production.

Alhaji Zakaria Fusains, the Upper East Regional Director of the Department of Agriculture, agreed that agroecology was the great potential to ensuring food security and called for increased sensitisation for adoption.

Alhaji Seidu Sulemana, the Savannah Regional Director of the Department of Agriculture, said the agroecology was not only climate resilient but also environmentally friendly and called for more investment to empower more farmers with the knowledge to practice.

Nations FC will face Eleven Wonders for the first time in the Ghana Premier League with both teams desperate for a win following a disastrous start to the season. 

The hosts. Nations FC, have struggled to recover from the disappointment of getting docked points which prevented them from finishing in the top four last season.

Meanwhile, Eleven Wonders are yet to match up with the fierce competition in the topflight following their return to the topflight.

Nations FC have won just a game, which was on the opening day against Swedru All Blacks, also newcomers. They have since lost three and drawn two of their last five matches.

Eleven Wonders are yet to feel what it is like to win a game after four defeats and two draws in six games.

Although it will the first meeting between the two sides in the league, they met in a Super Cup game which ended in a 2-2 draw.

A win for either side will boost their confidence as the season grows while a defeat will only compound misery on the loser.

The Reverend Martin Amenaki, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ketu North, has commended farmers under the Weta Irrigation Scheme for their dedication and innovation in rice production.

The commendation came during the Weta Rice Fair, held under the leadership of the Weta Irrigation Scheme with sponsorship from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The fair served not only as an exhibition of locally grown rice and processed products, but also as a strong call for government and stakeholders to support local farmers by purchasing their produce.

The absence of a reliable market, participants noted, continued to pose a major challenge to the sustainability of rice farming in the area.

Rev Amenaki described the event as “remarkably well-organized,” admiring the beautiful display of rice varieties and the creativity of local processors.

The fair, he said, provided a vital platform for farmers, agricultural experts, and development partners to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration toward improving rice production in the municipality.

“I was particularly impressed by the innovation and dedication of our farmers,” he said.

“My appreciation goes to the Assemblyman for the Adzoatsi Electoral Area, Mr Wonder Pomevor, for his instrumental role in ensuring the success of this important event.”

The MCE, who is himself a farmer, reaffirmed his commitment to championing agricultural development in the Municipality.

He expressed optimism that the recent intervention by the National Food Buffer Stock Company, facilitated through the efforts of the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, to purchase locally produced rice and other farm produce for storage would bring the much-needed relief to farmers.

“This initiative reaffirms our collective commitment to food security and farmer empowerment. Ketu North continues to stand as a model constituency, where agriculture remains central to our development vision,” he stated.

Rev Amenaki said the fair had been an eye-opener, enriching his understanding of modern rice cultivation practices.

He pledged to apply the lessons learned to improve productivity both on his own farm and across the municipality.

He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to JICA for the citation and farming equipment presented to him, assuring that the items would be used to promote best practices in local farming.

“Together, we remain committed to transforming agriculture and changing lives in Ketu North and beyond,” he added.

Bernard Mawudzro, Scheme Manager of the Weta Irrigation Scheme, said the event aimed to draw national attention to the immense potential of the scheme and to appeal for modern farming tools, improved rice seedlings, weedicides, pesticides, and other essential inputs to enhance productivity.

He thanked JICA for its continuous support and collaboration.

The participating farmers also expressed joy and appreciation for the organization of the fair, describing it as a timely boost to their morale and market visibility.

Although moving forward, Oleksandr Volobuev’s body is angled slightly away from the camera, as if bracing against the deadly air still swirling with falling debris and smoke.

His face in careful concentration, the Major-General from Ukraine’s Civil Protection Service clings tightly to a precious bundle, wrapped for protection in his coat – and out of which two small pink shoes protrude.

It is a striking image of a dramatic rescue from a nursery school in the eastern city of Kharkiv, following a devastating, direct hit by a Russian drone.

Unsurprisingly it has gone viral, capturing both the Ukrainian and the wider global public’s imagination.

With 48 children trapped in a shelter in the burning building, it was not the only act of bravery that day, not by a long way.

But few photographs better sum up the growing impact of Russia’s full-scale invasion on everyday life, with Ukraine’s most vulnerable now bearing the brunt, including children.

“We got the call that there had been an attack on the kindergarten,” Oleksandr Volobuev told me. “And, of course, knowing there would be children there, we set off in a state of some anxiety.”

Little did he expect that by the end of that day, as a result of carrying that little girl to safety, he would find himself being hailed as a national hero.

In a split-second moment caught on camera, the Ukrainian people saw not only the reality of Russia’s new strategy – its increasing attacks on civilian infrastructure – but also a stark depiction of their own resilience and defiance.

It’s impossible to know why the Honey Academy, based in a sturdy, two-storey brick building in Kharkiv’s Kholodnohirsky district, was hit by a Shahed drone.

The low, menacing hum of those Iranian-designed weapons, which carry a lethal 50kg payload, is now all too familiar, not only to soldiers on the front line, but to Ukrainians everywhere.

While they can be devastatingly accurate, the large volume being fired by Russia – with multiple waves of drones in each attack on cities across the country – means some inevitably malfunction.

Russia has regularly denied targeting residential areas, but maps of the city show no obvious military targets in the immediate vicinity of the kindergarten, and the Ukrainian government certainly spoke of it as deliberate.

“There is no justification for an attack on a kindergarten, nor can there ever be,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said shortly after the strike. “Clearly, Russia is growing more brazen.”

Fedir Uhnenko was also with one of the emergency teams rushing to respond to the strike.

Normally, as a press officer with the Civil Defence Service, he is not so closely involved in frontline work.

But this time, seeing the disaster unfolding in front of him, he knew he had to act.

“There’d been a huge explosion and there was horror in their eyes,” he told me, on finding the children huddled in the building’s basement.

Luckily, following the air raid warning that had sounded before the attack, the children had taken cover in the school’s shelter there.

But with the fire still burning, the roof destroyed and the building filling with smoke and dust, they were still in danger.

His colleagues, as well as members of the public who had come to help, stepped forward one by one to scoop up a child.

Like Oleksandr, his more senior commander, Fedir was pictured carrying a child to safety. In his case it was a young boy, through the rubble and smoke.

“I was reassuring him all the way that everything was fine, there was nothing to worry about,” he explained.

“When we came out of the building, there was a car on fire. Our boys were putting it out. And, you know, I was surprised the kid didn’t cry. There was certainly fear in his eyes.”

“I said to him, go ahead and hold me as tight as you like. I’m quite big myself and, as you can see in the photo, he grabbed me so tightly.”

In the end, he had fulfilled two roles: the rescue work and his day job too. His press officer’s helmet-camera rolled throughout, capturing many of the up-close photographs and videos that have since been beamed around the world.

The children were carried to an emergency reception point in a safe zone, a few hundred metres from the nursery school.

All were unharmed, but there can be little doubt about the danger they faced.

One adult working nearby was killed in the strike and nine others were wounded, one with serious burns and another a traumatic amputation of her leg.

For all the rescuers, Fedir told me, there was the constant awareness not only of the risks of fire, falling masonry and smoke, but of the possibility of another strike.

Russia has been known to hit the same target twice, which Ukrainians see as a deliberate strategy to kill emergency workers.

The day after the nursery school attack, one of these so called “double taps” killed a firefighter and wounded five of his colleagues in a village a short distance from Kharkiv.

Ukraine believes Russia has turned to civilian targets in desperation over its inability to make significant gains on the battlefield.

Both Oleksandr and Fedir say what they saw at the kindergarten has done little to change their view of the enemy.

“From the beginning I have only one feeling that we must go through all this and win,” Oleksandr told me.

I ask him what kind of future he envisages for the 48 young lives he helped save.

“Of course, only good, happy lives,” he replied. “But not only our children. I would like all children to live in peace.”

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President John Mahama with Chinese leader Xi Jinping

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana has secured an additional 200-million-yuan ($30 million) grant from China, which will serve as seed funding for the establishment of a new Catholic Science and Technology University in Damongo, in the Savannah Region.

The President said the new university will focus on science, technology, robotics, artificial intelligence, digital sciences, and advanced medical training, positioning Ghana to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global economy.

He explained that the initiative forms part of his administration’s commitment to expand public tertiary education infrastructure and establish universities or satellite campuses in all six newly created regions.

“This new university will produce the scientists and innovators needed for the 21st century,” President Mahama said. “We are bringing tertiary education to the doorstep of every Ghanaian youth.”

A Nation Where Ability Defines Destiny

In his closing remarks, President Mahama reaffirmed his belief that Ghana’s progress depends on empowering every citizen to realise their potential, regardless of circumstance.

“This initiative envisions a Ghana where a visually impaired student becomes a software engineer, where a young woman in a wheelchair earns her law degree and defends the voiceless, and where a child with hearing impairment grows up to lead this nation,” he said.

He declared the Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities Initiative officially launched, describing it as a milestone in Ghana’s ongoing journey toward equality and social justice.

“Let this prove that Ghana chooses justice over indifference, inclusion over exclusion,” he said. “With faith in our collective future, I hereby declare the Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities Initiative officially launched.”

Concluding his address, the President called for unity and shared purpose in building an inclusive society that values the potential of every citizen.

“May this programme light the path for generations to come and remind us that every Ghanaian — regardless of ability — deserves the chance to dream and to rise as far as they can.”

A devastating road traffic accident on the Tatale–Zabzugu road late Friday night, October 24, has resulted in three fatalities and left over 10 others seriously injured.

The crash involved a Kia truck carrying market traders and a stationary Motorking tricycle that had broken down on the highway.

The incident occurred when the Kia truck (registration number GW-5828-17), which was transporting traders returning from the Kukpalgu market, collided violently with the abandoned tricycle.

Eyewitness accounts point to poor visibility as a critical contributing factor to the high-impact collision. The drivers’ visibility was severely compromised by external elements, preventing them from noticing the stationary hazard in time.

Eyewitnesses said the bright lights from an oncoming vehicle from the Zabzugu direction impaired the Kia truck driver’s visibility, causing him to crash into the stationary tricycle.

This incident highlights the recurrent danger posed by unlit or improperly marked stationary vehicles on major inter-urban routes, particularly during hours of darkness when visibility is naturally compromised.

The severity of the crash was immediately evident in the tragic loss of life and the high number of injured:

• Two people reportedly died on the spot at the accident scene.
• A third victim died upon arrival at the Tatale District Hospital, bringing the total confirmed fatalities to three.
• Over 10 other passengers who sustained various degrees of injuries are currently receiving urgent medical treatment at the same Tatale District Hospital.

The deceased individuals’ bodies have been formally deposited at the hospital mortuary, pending identification and official procedures.

This catastrophic event has cast a pall over the local communities, prompting renewed calls for better road safety regulations concerning broken-down commercial vehicles.

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Dr. Godwin Asamoah Ahiakwao, Principal Optometrist and Head of the Eye Unit at the Ga North Municipal Hospital, has vehemently cautioned parents against the common, yet dangerous, practice of applying breast milk to a child’s eyes when they observe changes in colour or discomfort.

Dr. Ahiakwao’s strong advisory was delivered during a special, eye-screening exercise held at the hospital to commemorate World Sight Day 2025, which was celebrated under the theme: “Love Your Eyes, Love Your Sight.”

Breast Milk is Not Sterile: Risk of Severe Infection

The Principal Optometrist explained that far from being a remedy, using breast milk on the eye can introduce harmful pathogens, escalating minor concerns into serious medical problems.

“We want parents to stop using breast milk on their children’s eyes because applying breast milk to the eye can cause infections, including potentially severe ones. This is because breast milk is not sterile and can introduce bacteria into the eye.”

Instead of resorting to unverified home remedies, Dr. Ahiakwao strongly urged parents to seek professional medical intervention promptly when ocular concerns arise, emphasizing the long-term educational impact of proper eye care.

“They have to help protect their children’s eyes by sending them to the hospital when they observe something unusual instead of risking damage by using breastmilk.”

He underscored the paramount importance of vision for childhood development:

“It’s the eyes they use for learning and reading, so parents must make sure their children’s sight is always checked,” he added.

To actively promote good eye health and ensure early detection of conditions, the Ga North Municipal Hospital conducted a free eye-screening exercise for pupils of Silicon Valley International School. The program successfully screened approximately 1,000 pupils.

Dr. Ahiakwao described sight as a “precious gift from God” and also advised against common modern-day habits that strain vision, such as excessive screen time among students and office workers.

He provided a practical, universally accepted rule for digital eye strain prevention: the $20/20/20$ Rule.

“We are in the digital age, and our use of phones and computers has increased.

For every 20 minutes of close work, take a 20-second break and look 20 metres away. That simple practice helps to relax the eyes and prevent strain,” he advised.

The initiative was lauded by the school’s administration for its positive impact on academic output. Dominic Owusu Ansah, Head of the Junior High Department and Boarding House Supervisor, expressed gratitude on behalf of the school and parents.

He confirmed the success of continuous engagement with the health service, noting that the proactiveness of the Ga North Municipal Health Service has directly helped improve pupils’ academic performance by addressing sight-related challenges early.

Ansah’s statement highlights a critical data point in educational health: early intervention in visual acuity issues is directly correlated with improved learning outcomes and overall academic success.

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The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has expressed concern over the declining use of condoms among young people, attributing the trend to a reduced fear of HIV and AIDS infections.

Mr Isaiah Doe Kwao, Director of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the Commission, said that although condoms remained widely available, many young people were becoming complacent about their sexual health, opting for unprotected sex despite the risks.

“Even though we have condoms in this country, it appears the youth of today are not using them as we would want,” he said at the 14th National Partnership Forum on HIV and AIDS in Accra on Wednesday.

Mr Kwao explained that some young people preferred “going raw” and believed HIV was no longer deadly because there were fewer visible deaths.

“Some say they prefer the natural feel. Others think HIV is no longer deadly because they no longer see people dying like before, so the fear factor is gone,” he noted.

He described such perceptions as dangerous, stressing that condoms remained one of the most effective tools for preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.

“As much as possible, we continue to encourage them to reduce risky behaviours. Condom use is still key in preventing HIV and other infections. We advise them to either abstain, remain faithful to one partner, or use condoms consistently and correctly,” he said.

Mr Kwao urged young people to take their health seriously, noting that their wellbeing was vital to Ghana’s future development.

“The youth are the future leaders of this country. We want them to stay safe, grow into healthy adults, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he added.

On Ghana’s goal of ending AIDS by 2030, Mr Kwao said the Commission was developing a strategic plan (2026–2030) to guide interventions towards achieving the global 95-95-95 targets. This would ensure that all persons living with HIV know their status, receive treatment and achieve viral suppression.

Mr Kwao noted that inadequate funding remained a major challenge following the withdrawal or reduction of support from donor partners such as USAID and the Global Fund.

“It is incumbent on the government of Ghana to fill in the gap so that we can implement the interventions we’ve laid out,” he said.

He also appealed to the private sector to support the national HIV response through corporate social responsibility initiatives and contributions to the Ghana HIV and AIDS Fund.

“We have developed a short code, *9898#, where individuals can donate as little as one cedi to support HIV activities in the country,” he added.

Mr Kakra Essamuah, Board Chair of the GAC and Chairperson of the event, said the Commission remained committed to mobilising domestic resources to sustain Ghana’s HIV response and eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

He commended stakeholders for their continued collaboration and called for renewed commitment and innovation to address emerging challenges in the national HIV response.

Representatives from UNESCO, the Global Fund, NAP+ Ghana and the Ghana Employers Association pledged continued support to Ghana’s efforts in combating HIV and AIDS.

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A Community Health Consultant has warned that the practice of some traders, particularly women, at the Accra Central Market, urinating into plastic water bottles and storing them at their spots until the end of the day is a serious health risk.

Others pour the urine into nearby drains or on pavements — a habit that has become disturbingly common despite rising concerns about communicable diseases.

The consultant, who is the Head of the Department of Community Health at the University of Ghana Medical School, Professor Benedict N.L. Calys-Tagoe said that such practices could expose traders and customers to diseases.

In an interview with The Mirror in Accra last Wednesday, Professor Calys-Tagoe said communicable diseases such as typhoid could be transmitted if infected urine came into contact with food, water or even the hands of traders.

He explained that containers used to store urine could serve as breeding grounds for disease-causing organisms.

“When urine is stored for long periods, it becomes a good medium for the growth of microorganisms. Although urine itself is generally not hazardous, it can pose health risks under such conditions,” he said.

“If urine leaks onto their hands and they don’t wash them properly, microorganisms can easily be transferred to food or water, creating a route for disease transmission,” he explained.

Professor Calys-Tagoe, who is also an epidemiologist and consultant public health physician, added that decomposing urine releases ammonia gas, which causes the strong odour associated with urinals and can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, sometimes leading to coughing. 

These, he said, are some of the indirect effects of improper urine disposal.

Professor Calys-Tagoe stressed the need for continuous engagement and education for traders, many of whom may not be aware of the health implications of their actions.

“Beyond education, we must provide adequate places of convenience in markets. If traders have to walk about 200 metres to find a urinal, it becomes easier for them to use bottles instead,” he observed.

Market observations

During visits to the Accra Central Market, The Mirror found some of such bottles filled with urine under tables and on pavements in areas such as the Okaishie Drug Lane, CMB and Kingsway.

Environmental effects

Professor Calys-Tagoe warned that abandoned urine bottles could contribute to eutrophication — the process by which nutrients such as those in urine enter water bodies, causing excessive algae growth.

“When urine enters drains and eventually streams, it can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, killing fish and reducing the availability of seafood for human consumption,” he explained.

He also cautioned that traces of antibiotics or medication in urine could contaminate water bodies, further harming aquatic life.

Public concerns

Some customers expressed worry about the practice.

“A trader can be urinating behind her table while transacting business,” said Osei Akoto. 

Another shopper, Evelyn Ntiamoah, added that some traders reused empty water bottles as urine containers instead of visiting public urinals.

Other customers described the practice as lazy, noting that public toilets and urinals were often located within a short walking distance.

Market queen’s reaction

The CMB Market Queen, Naa Kwanuwa, confirmed the practice and condemned it as unacceptable.

“The women are just being lazy. I’ve warned them several times, but they keep doing it and apologising later,” she said.

She urged traders to prioritise hygiene and called on the media to help raise awareness.

“It costs only GH¢1 to use a urinal and GH¢5 for the toilet. There’s no excuse for such behaviour,” she added.

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

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

The Paramount Chief of the Nkusukum Traditional Area in the Central Region, Okogyeman Okese Essando IX, has appealed to the government and parliament to expedite the ratification of the Ewoyaa Lithium Mining Lease.

He warned that prolonged delays are worsening hardship and frustration among affected communities.

Speaking at the 2025 Grand Durbar of the Odambea Festival at Saltpond, the Paramount Chief described the Ewoyaa Lithium Project as the “hope of the people of Mfantseman and Nkusukum”, noting that the initiative spans seven communities with enormous economic prospects.

“Up to now, the ratification has not been passed, and this has left our communities – such as Ewoyaa, Amanse, Nankesedo, Anokye, Abonko, and Twafo – worried. We, the chiefs, are also extremely frustrated,”
Okogyeman Okese Essando IX lamented.

He explained that the moratorium imposed on local lands had limited residents’ access to their properties and stalled compensation and resettlement plans that Atlantic Lithium, the project operator, had prepared.

“If Parliament had given them the ratification, they would have paid everybody their due compensations and begun the resettlement of some of the affected communities. I know this mining company, and I know for a fact that they are ready. We are all looking forward to government (Parliament) giving them the approval. I know that if government (Parliament) gives them the ratification today, within three months they will certainly pay the compensations, and the resettlement construction will also start,” the traditional ruler indicated.

The Paramount Chief expressed confidence that ratification before the end of the year would trigger immediate compensation payments, construction of resettlement facilities and job creation across the area.

“This will attract a lot of jobs into our communities. Our children and families will get work to do, and it will bring peace. The lithium is a blessing that God has given to us, the people of Nkusukum, Mankessim, and Abura,” he said.

Background

Ghana’s entry into the global lithium market has stalled two years after signing what was hailed as a landmark agreement with Atlantic Lithium in October 2023.

Although the company was granted a 15-year mining lease, the deal remains unratified by Parliament, leaving the project in legal limbo while lithium prices collapse globally.

The project was expected to generate over 1,200 jobs during construction and channel one percent of annual revenues into a Community Development Fund for local infrastructure. The government also secured a 19 percent equity stake, including a 13 percent free carried interest.

However, fluctuating market prices and ongoing reviews of the agreement by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources have delayed parliamentary action, sparking concerns among investors and local leaders alike.

Policy experts and community stakeholders have warned that further delays could cause Ghana to lose out to regional competitors like Mali, which has already brought two lithium projects into production.

With Parliament’s ratification still pending, the people of Nkusukum, Mankessim and Abura continue to wait for the promise of jobs and development that the Ewoyaa Lithium Project represents.

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

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

The Secretary-General emphasised that all 56 countries within the Commonwealth operate under its charter, which promotes democracy, good governance, human rights, and the rule of law — “Otumfuo is on the right path, and we wholeheartedly associate ourselves with what he is doing. We gratefully accept this gift of the gold coin,” she added.

Delegation

A delegation, which included Alex Dadey, Executive Chairman of KGL Group; Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori Atta, Executive Chairman of E ON 3 Group; Kwami Sefa Kayi, a broadcast journalist and media consultant to E ON 3 Group; and Daniel Weitmann, founder of Golden Suisse, presented the gold coin to the Secretary-General.

Mr Dadey said, “We have come here on behalf of Otumfuo to present one of the commemorative gold coins to you and also to invite you to next year’s peace concert event.”

Mr Dadey said, “We have come here on behalf of Otumfuo to present one of the commemorative gold coins to you and also to invite you to next year’s peace concert event.”

The 24-karat gold coin symbolises peace and honours Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his contributions to peace and development in Ghana. It is a life-long project that not only stands as a legacy for the 16th Asantehene but also serves as a vehicle to project Ghana’s cultural heritage.

Peace concert 

The Commonwealth Secretary-General also accepted an invitation to be a special guest for the ‘World-Meets-in-Ghana’ peace concert, scheduled for Kumasi next year, to celebrate Otumfuo as a Pillar of Peace on his 27th coronation anniversary.

The two-day event will provide an opportunity for world leaders, Ghanaians, the African diaspora and the global community to own a piece of the Otumfuo commemorative gold coin, gold bar and gold medal.

Background 

On December 29, 2019, Otumfuo was honoured with the prestigious title of “Pillar of Peace” at the inaugural African Premier Leadership Awards in Kumasi. This recognition came in light of his pivotal role in leading the Committee of Eminent Chiefs to resolve the decades-long Dagbon chieftaincy conflict. This mediation effort lasted over 17 years and included more than 1,000 sittings at the Manhyia Palace, ultimately paving the way for the enskinment of a new king, Ya-Na Abukari II.

Beyond the Dagbon conflict, His Majesty has a successfully resolved hundreds of chieftaincy disputes within his kingdom, fostering stability and security for his people. He has also played a key role in mediating political conflicts, including election disputes and political transitions. In the lead-up to the 2012 general election, the Asantehene convened all presidential candidates to sign a peace agreement in Kumasi, known as the Kumasi Declaration. Additionally, when tensions escalated in 2016 and concerns were raised by the UN representative and the diplomatic community, the Asantehene facilitated a quiet diplomatic resolution that led to a peaceful transition. His mediation skills have been instrumental in diffusing political tensions that threatened Ghana’s democracy.

In recognition of his contributions to peace and development in Ghana, the Bank of Ghana authorised the E ON 3 Group, a business and investment company, to issue a 24-karat commemorative gold coin in his honour. The gold coin was officially launched on December 12, 2021, at a grand event in Kumasi.

Following the official launch of the gold coin, special presentations of the coin were made. The recipients were selected based on their alignment with the time and personal resources the Asantehene invested in resolving the Dagbon dispute, as well as their own esteemed reputations, which resonated with the global prestige of the coin.

Recipients include: 

• 
  

  John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana 

• 
  

  Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former President of Ghana

• 
  

  John Agyekum Kufuor, former President of Ghana

• 
  

  Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President of Ghana

• 
  

  Justice Anin Yeboah, former Chief Justice of Ghana

• 
  

  Dr. Ernest Addison, former Governor of Bank of Ghana

• 
  

  Sir Sam Jonah, Executive Chairman, Jonah Capital

• 
  

  The City of Memphis in the United States of America represented by Charles Ewing, Chairman of the Memphis in May Festival (2022) and James L. Holt, President & CEO of the Memphis in May Festival.

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, has made a strong policy call for the economic transformation of African football at the African Football Business Summit (AFBS25), held in Mombasa, Kenya, on 23rd and 24th October 2025

Organised by Football Foundation Africa, the Summit convened influential stakeholders including federation presidents, sports ministers, investors, club executives, broadcasters, and marketing experts from across the continent.

In his keynote address, Adams outlined Ghana’s recent football reforms including the launch of a government-backed broadcast partnership, a GHS 1 million capital support package to each Ghana Premier League club, and the introduction of a restructured prize system where Ghana premier league clubs earn end-of-season rewards, with the 2025/26 champion set to receive GHS 2 million – a fourfold increase from the previous allocation.

The Minister urged African federations to institutionalise national football business conversation, incentivise private-sector partnerships through tax reliefs and infrastructure assurance, and expand youth academies into viable talent and employment centres.

He also advocated for the commercialisation of local football data, digital storytelling, and merchandising to position grassroots development as both a sport and economic strategy.

“Africa must stop exporting raw talent and start exporting finished football products, with value chains built on the continent.

From Accra to Algiers, Nairobi to Lagos – the future is African. But the market will only respond if we organise, invest, and execute,” Adams stated.

The Minister’s address sparked high-level engagements with continental stakeholders, including:

• Brian Wesaala, CEO of Football Foundation Africa and Convener of AFBS25,
• Nick Mwendwa, President of the Football Kenya Federation,
• Urs Lehmann, CEO of Infront Sports,
• Marlon Glean, President of the Grenada Football Association,
• Majidane M’Djih, CEO of MRW Sport Capital, among others.

In closing, Adams reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to a new football economy that prioritises transparency, grassroots excellence, local value retention and continental collaboration.

The Government of Ghana is taking steps toward strengthening its climate governance framework with the establishment of a National Climate Change and Sustainability Hub, an initiative designed to drive innovation, research, and collaboration across sectors to accelerate national climate action. The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Issifu […]

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The real reason why Samuel Atta Akyea Esq., Senior Counsel and Lawyer for Kwabena Adu-Boahene, former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), dramatically walked out of court during proceedings in the ongoing case involving Adu-Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, has been fully revealed in an explosive Supreme Court application filed this week.

The application, filed Ex parte by the two accused persons, lays bare a series of allegations against Justice John Eugene Nyante Nyadu, the presiding judge at the High Court, General Jurisdiction “10”, which the applicants say demonstrate “continuing operative bias” and “prejudgment” in their trial.

The motion, brought under Article 132 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 5 of the Courts Act, 1993 (Act 459), seeks an order of prohibition to restrain Justice Nyadu from continuing with the criminal case titled The Republic v. Kwabena Adu-Boahene, Angela Adjei Boateng, Mildred Donkor and Advantage Solutions Ltd (Suit No. CR/0418/2025).

Grounds of bias cited in the application

The applicants list four key grounds of bias against the trial judge, stating:

“His Lordship is caught in a continuing operative bias demonstrated in his prejudgment and/or predetermination of the critical issues of the essence and import of exculpatory evidence in aid of fair trial as spelt out in Article 19 of the Constitution and judicially pronounced upon in the Supreme Court case of Republic v. Baffoe-Bonnie & 4 Others [2017–2021] 1 SCGLR 327.”

They further contend that:

“The posture of His Lordship, John Eugene Nyante Nyadu, J., that he is determined to continue with the trial when he has judicially predetermined that the exculpatory evidence are not relevant to the case and the defence of the Accused persons/Applicants, amounts to a real likelihood of bias against the Applicants.”

In addition, the application cites the “stampeding” of the trial judge by the Attorney-General, saying:

“The Attorney-General’s stampeding of His Lordship, John Eugene Nyante Nyadu, J., relating to his time in delivering his own decisions and deferring to the Attorney-General’s time dictates is real likelihood of bias against the Applicants.”

Finally, the applicants note what they describe as the judge’s “special extrajudicial interest” in the case:

“A Court of General Jurisdiction having elected to hear the criminal case from 9am to 4pm when he sits has shown special extrajudicial interest in the case which is a real likelihood of bias disqualifying His Lordship from adjudicating the case as an independent justice delivery umpire.”

Details from the Affidavit of Kwabena Adu-Boahene

In a 42-paragraph affidavit attached to the motion, Mr. Adu-Boahene recounts what he describes as a series of unlawful and prejudicial acts condoned by the trial judge, beginning from their first appearance in court on April 30, 2025.

He narrates that on that day, he, his co-accused, and their lawyers — Samuel Atta Akyea, Kwaku Osei Asare, and Peter Osei Asamoah, were invited to meet officials of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) at 2:00 p.m., but after waiting for two hours, were “bundled into [an] EOCO vehicle amidst serious protestations from our lawyers.”

They were then “driven to the Court premises and ushered into the High Court, General Jurisdiction ‘10’, with our lawyers following.”

“To our shock and as if it had been pre-arranged, we found the Attorney-General, Hon. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine and his Deputy, Dr. Justice Srem Sai cocooned in the Court,” the affidavit states.

According to Adu-Boahene, the lawyers “could not come to terms with this ambush practice given the fact that they were not officially dressed for Court.”

He continues:

“Right in the Courtroom, a bailiff served our lawyers with the charge sheet and the accompanying facts apparently signed by the Attorney-General and filed in the General Jurisdiction and not the Criminal Division of the High Court on the 30th day of April 2025 at 12:32pm, a few hours before we were forcefully parceled to court.”

He argues that “His Lordship condoned this violation of our rights and the law.”

Claims of predetermination and judicial bias

The affidavit further cites direct portions of the judge’s ruling (Exhibit KAA 7) as evidence that he had “closed his mind” on critical matters. Among them are:

“Their request for further disclosure at this stage therefore, appears to me to be an attempt to stall the progression of proceedings towards commencement of the trial.”

“In the case of the missing pages of Exhibit ‘C’, this court finds same to constitute an abuse of the opportunity for further disclosures…”

“This evidence is irrelevant in the sense that the logic of it urges the court, if it finds conduct on the part of the other National Security Coordinators to be the same as what is alleged to be wrong now, not to hold the accused persons/applicants culpable and accountable.”

The applicants insist that such statements reveal judicial predetermination and bias, arguing that the judge’s reasoning “violates the principles of fair trial as enshrined in the Constitution.”

Alleged “stampeding” by the Attorney-General

The affidavit also chronicles instances where the Deputy Attorney-General allegedly pressured the judge to abridge his own timelines in favour of the prosecution.

“The learned Deputy Attorney-General cajoled him to abridge his time to the 3rd day of July 2025 which the Court obliged.”

“The stampeding of His Lordship did not pay off. He did not deliver the reasoned ruling. He merely pronounced that the application is dismissed.”

“Again, the learned Deputy Attorney-General pushed His Lordship to deliver his own ruling earlier than his diary and time will permit. Typical, His Lordship did the Deputy Attorney-General’s bidding and scheduled his ruling to the 17th day of October 2025 at 9am.”

The applicants maintain that these actions demonstrate that the judge was “deferring to the Attorney-General’s dictates”, contrary to the principle of judicial independence.

Judge’s “special interest” in Case

They further allege that Justice Nyadu’s decision to sit for long hours and multiple days on their case was another sign of bias.

“On the very same day, the 17th day of October 2025, His Lordship said in the open Court that he would continue the trial every Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Strangely enough, he added Thursday ignoring the practice of our lawyers in other courts.”

“The special interest which His Lordship, sitting as a judge of the General Jurisdiction, is giving to this criminal case, brings us to the conclusion that he cannot be an impartial Arbiter.”

The affidavit further concludes emphatically:

“On the account of the positive judicial confessions as expressed above, the bias of His Lordship in this criminal case against us is very prominent and continuing. His Lordship does not pay obeisance to fair trial and we pray for his disqualification in the further hearing of the case.”

The walkout explained

These detailed allegations now provide the clear context behind Lawyer Atta Akyea’s decision to walk out of the courtroom last week.

According to sources close to the defense team, the walkout was a matter of principle, stemming from what they perceived as blatant disregard for fair trial standards and judicial impartiality, all of which are now documented in the Supreme Court filings.

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The Member of Parliament for Talensi, Daniel Dung Mahama, has assured farmers that the government is taking decisive steps to address the ongoing food glut affecting maize and rice producers across the country.

His comments come amid growing concerns from the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana that the grain sector is nearing collapse, with over 100,000 metric tonnes of maize and rice from the 2024 harvest still unsold. Farmers in several regions have expressed frustration over limited access to reliable markets for their produce.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Newsroom on Saturday, 25 October, Mr Mahama urged farmers to remain calm, noting that government interventions are already underway.

“The farmers watching us shouldn’t panic. They should try and use their old methods of storage. So far, the government is doing well with the glut. The National Food Buffer Stock Company has been instructed to buy the excess, and they have been doing it,” he said.

The Talensi MP encouraged farmers to adopt improved post-harvest handling and storage practices to prevent losses, even as the government works to expand market opportunities.

He also welcomed the Minority in Parliament’s call for the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr Eric Opoku, to brief the House on plans to manage the food surplus, describing it as a reasonable step to ensure transparency.

“With the directive by the Minister of Agriculture, I’ll also encourage Buffer Stock to act early to buy the excess produce since the government has warehouses to store them. This will bring a solution to the issue,” he said.

The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, disclosed that Cabinet has approved the release of funds to the National Food Buffer Stock Company to purchase surplus maize and rice and stabilise the market, ensuring farmers are not left at a disadvantage.

….

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The Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reclaiming and rehabilitating landscapes ravaged by illegal mining.

She described the effort as crucial to restoring Ghana’s ecological integrity and safeguarding the nation’s environmental future.

Vast areas of Ghana’s forests, farmlands, and river systems have been severely degraded by galamsey operations, threatening biodiversity, contaminating water sources, and endangering livelihoods and public health.

Launching a 2,000-hectare pilot reclamation project at Gyaman Nkwanta in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region, Prof. Klutse emphasised the government’s resolve to reverse environmental devastation and restore degraded ecosystems.

“The reclamation project we’re launching today is a step toward healing the land, restoring livelihoods, and rebuilding hope.”

She explained that the initiative aligns with the EPA’s core mandate to protect, manage, and enhance Ghana’s environment while promoting sustainable development.

“This is a national initiative focused on reclaiming degraded lands and rehabilitating ecosystems destroyed by mining and other unsustainable human activities,” she said.

Under the EcoReclaim Project, Prof. Klutse said degraded sites will be surveyed, mapped, and restored using advanced ecological engineering techniques such as topsoil replenishment, slope stabilisation, and the planting of indigenous tree species capable of phyto-remediation—a process that extracts heavy metals and revives soil health.

She further disclosed that the EPA’s partnership with LOGEIST Group Limited will promote agroforestry and sustainable farming systems to rebuild livelihoods within affected communities.

“The objective is not only to reclaim the land but also to reclaim livelihoods and, most importantly, the dignity of the community.”

The LOGEIST EcoReclaim Project, spearheaded by the EPA under the government’s flagship “Reclaim, Restore, Rebuild” initiative, seeks to revive soil fertility, enhance biodiversity corridors, and strengthen climate resilience in post-mining landscapes. The pilot phase in Amansie Central adopts a community-driven model that actively involves local residents, traditional authorities, and partner agencies.

EPA’s Acting Ashanti Regional Director, Sydney Kwaku Danso, described the project as a “process of ecological healing,” urging traditional rulers to take ownership of reclaimed lands.

“Reclaiming our land is not a one-day event; it’s a process of healing. It demands commitment, discipline, and collective stewardship. I urge local authorities and communities to protect reclaimed sites and prevent re-degradation”

For his part, the CEO of LOGEIST Group Limited, Daniel Doe Tamakloe, outlined the company’s integrated land-management strategies designed to ensure the project’s long-term sustainability.

“As part of our operational framework, LOGEIST is adopting best-practice land-management models, including the use of phyto-remediation and bio-utilisation species to naturally restore soil nutrients and stabilise ecosystems. This will be complemented by integrated land-use planning, real-time soil mapping and monitoring, and community-based maintenance systems that empower residents as custodians of restored lands.”

Traditional leaders in the area have welcomed the initiative, pledging full support to protect reclaimed lands, promote sustainable livelihoods, and champion environmental regeneration across the district.

…

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play videoOfficial artwork of the show over the weekend

This Saturday, October 25, 2025, edition of UTV’s United Showbiz programme is live with Empress Gifty discharging her duties as sit-in host.

This edition of the entertainment show has panelists discussing the major entertainment issues of the week.

MC Yaa Yeboah, A Plus, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo, and Ola Michael are on the bill as pundits for the show.

Wendy Shay and Prophet Kumchacha are also on board to bring some nuance to the conversations about the respective issues.

Watch the video below

Dad’s Army beat Frankie’s Rockfield 4–3 to win the 2025 Stanbic Trustees’ Cup at the Accra Polo Club on Saturday evening.

The annual event, held in honour of trustees of the 123-year-old Accra Polo Club, drew a lively crowd for an evening of sport, entertainment, and networking.

Frankie’s Rockfield earned their place in the main fixture after beating the Trustees Team in a qualifying game on Wednesday.

Dad’s Army took the lead in the second of four chukkas, were pegged back twice, but sealed the victory in the closing stages.

Captain of Dad’s Army, Daniel Awuah Darko, expressed delight with the triumph. “It feels very good. Stanbic Bank organised the tournament this year and I’m a very good client of Stanbic Bank. I said I wanted to play for them and I got all my nephews to play with me and I’m very happy we won the trophy.”

Despite the defeat, Frankie’s Rockfield’s Loic Devos was named Most Valuable Player. “It’s been a very hard game but thanks to the team I was named the MVP. It’s an honour,” Devos said.

Gerard Boakye, Chairman of the Social Committee of the Accra Polo Club, said the tournament was “part of efforts to build cohesion among team members and also provide a platform for business to network.”

The match also featured South African 3-goal polo professional Cody Williamson, who turned out for the Frankies Rockfield team.

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.

Stakeholders at the workshop held in Prampram

Ghana is positioning itself as a continental leader in climate and financial resilience through the institutionalisation of inclusive insurance, a national strategy designed to protect vulnerable populations from climate and economic shocks.

The initiative, spearheaded by the National Insurance Commission (NIC) with technical and financial support from the United Nations Development Programme’s Insurance and Risk Finance Facility (UNDP–IRFF), is reshaping the country’s approach to insurance and sustainable development.

In 2025, the NIC and UNDP–IRFF established the Inclusive Insurance Steering Committee (IISC) a cross-sectoral body that brings together government ministries, regulators, insurers and development partners to coordinate strategies for inclusive insurance.

The Committee aims to expand insurance access to smallholder farmers, market women, microentrepreneurs, and informal sector workers who are most affected by climate-related disasters.

Speaking at a recent stakeholder engagement, Bernard Baah, Deputy Commissioner of Insurance, underscored the national significance of this effort: “Inclusive insurance is not just a policy priority; it’s a social and economic necessity.

As a nation, we are redefining insurance as a tool for resilience and shared prosperity, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of income, can withstand shocks and rebuild stronger.”

The IISC operates through two thematic subcommittees — Agriculture & Sustainable Insurance and Policy & Innovation — which drive targeted policy and market interventions.

The Agriculture and Sustainable Insurance Subcommittee, chaired by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), focuses on reducing risks faced by Ghana’s farmers through sustainable insurance mechanisms.

Its mandate includes developing an Agricultural Insurance Consortium, modelled on successful examples in Côte d’Ivoire, Zambia, and Rwanda, to align agricultural data with insurance needs and promote climate-smart insurance products.

The Policy and Innovation Sub-committee, led by the NIC’s Directorate of Policy and Innovation, is advancing regulatory reforms to enable broader participation in the insurance market.

It is developing proposals for tax incentives, amendments to the Insurance Act 2021 (Act 1061), and frameworks for Electronic Money Issuers (EMIs) to distribute microinsurance products responsibly.

In October 2025, members of the Steering Committee participated in a five-day capacity-building workshop in Prampram in the Greater Accra Region, facilitated by UNDP-IRFF and NIC.

The workshop, featuring case studies from the Philippines, Kenya, and Rwanda, emphasised experiential learning, data sharing, and the development of a national communications strategy for inclusive insurance.

Dr Amina Sammo, National Coordinator of the UNDP–IRFF, highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration:

“The success of Ghana’s inclusive insurance journey lies in collaboration and continuity.

Through the Insurance and Risk Finance Facility, we’ve shown that when innovation meets institutional commitment, resilience becomes possible for everyone from farmers to families to future generations.”

Despite progress, challenges persist — including limited actuarial capacity, low consumer awareness and resource constraints.

However, Ghana’s institutionalised, multi-sectoral model is already being recognised as a potential blueprint for other low- and middle-income countries aiming to link climate adaptation, social protection, and financial inclusion.

Aligned with global frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030) and Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action), Ghana’s inclusive insurance strategy demonstrates that governance reform, capacity building, and innovation are essential to building resilience.

File photo of illegal miners at work

The Director of Communications at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Ama Mawusi Mawunyefia, has disclosed that water pumps seized from illegal mining sites are being repurposed and given to farmers through the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to support irrigation and boost food production.

Speaking on GTV’s Current Agenda show on Saturday, October 25, 2025, Mawunyefia said the initiative forms part of the government’s efforts to ensure that items retrieved during anti-galamsey operations are put to good use rather than being left to waste.

According to her, over 900 water pumps confiscated during recent operations by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce (NAIMOS) have already been handed over to the Ministry of Agriculture for onward distribution to farmers across the country.

“There are still a few more pumps being collected at the NAIMOS office. Once we have a good number again, we will share them with the Ministry of Agriculture for distribution to farmers,” she explained.

Mawunyefia added that the ministry only destroys equipment that poses environmental threats, such as chanfan machines and other heavy-duty mining tools, while equipment that can serve productive purposes is recycled to aid government programmes like irrigation farming and responsible mining initiatives.

She further noted that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is also implementing the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme, which helps local mining communities form cooperatives and receive technical support to engage in safe and sustainable mining.

“We believe that materials recovered from illegal mining sites can be channeled to support positive economic activities such as farming and community mining. That is how we make the fight against galamsey not just punitive, but productive,” she stated.

Mawunyefia reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to transparency in its operations, saying that updates on the ongoing anti-galamsey efforts, including arrests and recoveries, are shared with the public.

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The Minority in Parliament has called for the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, to be summoned before the House to brief Members on the government’s plans to address the growing food glut across the country.

The call comes amid mounting concerns from the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana that the grain sector is nearing collapse, with over 100,000 metric tonnes of maize and rice from the 2024 harvest still unsold. Farmers in several regions have also expressed frustration over the lack of access to reliable markets for their produce.

Raising the issue on the floor of Parliament on Friday, October 24, the Member of Parliament for Nalerigu-Gambaga, Nurudeen Muhammed Mumuni, urged the government to take immediate action to prevent further losses in the agricultural sector.

In response, the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, disclosed that the Cabinet has approved the release of funds to the National Food Buffer Stock Company to purchase the excess produce and stabilise the market.

“You have admitted that the agricultural sector is doing very well and that it is going to positively impact food inflation in the coming months. What is of concern now is how we can get the produce from the farmers. I can assure you that I was in Cabinet when the President directed the Minister of Finance to make money available to Buffer Stock so that they can buy the produce from the farmers,” Ayariga said.

He added that some of the warehouses constructed during the Akufo-Addo administration would be instrumental in storing the current bumper harvest. However, he noted with concern that “unfortunately, none of the factories is functioning,” stressing the need for operational facilities to complement the storage infrastructure.

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